LONG BEACH – An old tradition gets a new lease on life as the First Annual Long Beach Croquet & Champagne Gala gets rolling on Sunday, Aug. 25, at 1:30 p.m. at 16th North and Ocean Beach Boulevard, Sen. Sid Snyder’s former residence in Long Beach.

Taking up where Oysterville’s 17 years of croquet parties recently left off, this new $25-per-person event will raise funds for His Supper Table, the non-profit group that provided over 41,000 meals to local people last year.

There will be a patriotic theme for this year’s event: Costumes are encouraged, or wear red, white and blue. Prizes will be awarded for best costumes.

There also will be awards for the best croquet teams. A cheaters’ game follows the main event – bring cash to bribe the judges.

Donations for admission will be accepted beginning Aug. 5 at the Heron & Beaver Pub in Seaview, Lighthouse Realty, or call Susan Helstrom at 642-2003 or (480) 940-8900, or Donna Oatfield at 642-2725. Donations also may be made at the gate on the day of the event. Unable to attend? Make a donation anyway to help His Supper Table.

Due to champagne, no children can be admitted. Adults age 21 and up acting like children are encouraged to attend. Appetizers will also be served.