ACC Foundation Christmas Gala on Dec. 6

The 12th Annual Alvin Community College Foundation Christmas Gala will become a three-ring circus to benefit students, faculty and several ACC programs.

The theme for this year’s event is “Under The Big Top” and will be on Dec. 6 at the Nolan Ryan Center on the ACC campus. Jugglers and clowns will perform during the gala to build the circus-like atmosphere, said Wendy Del Bello, executive director of the ACC Foundation.

The ACC Foundation has showcased many Christmas traditions from several countries in past galas but opted to go with the “best show on Earth this year.”

“It will make it a very fun evening,” Del Bello said.

The gala will begin with a wine reception and the opening of a silent auction at 6 p.m. Dinner and the live auction is set to begin at 7 p.m.

Money raised at the event goes towards student scholarships, faculty development and several programs. The 2010 gala raised more than $30,000, half of which goes directly toward student scholarships.

Proceeds also are used for the three Excellence Awards given every year to a professional employee, a faculty member and a technical support, clerical or maintenance employee. The Foundation also uses the funds to support the Summer Children’s Theater and the ACC Ambassador program.

Live auction items include Southwest Airlines round trip tickets, deserts for a year prepared by Foundation members, a duck hunt from Halls Bayou Ranch Hunting Club, a hay ride, a Party on the Patio and many more.

This year’s silent auction includes the traditional Texas A&M and University of Texas gift baskets, pottery crafted by Dennis LaValley, baskets with wine and cheese plus much more.

The Christmas Gala is the ACC Foundation’s largest fundraiser of the year.

Seats for the Gala sell fast so get them early. Tickets are $50. Diamond reserve tables are $800 while Gold reserve tables are $600. For more information or to purchase tickets, call (281) 756-3600.