September 17, 2010

Popular Noche de Gala set for Sept. 24

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- An evening of lively salsa music and dancing fun is coming to Southern Illinois University Carbondale, and the event is free and open to all.

Noche de Gala will be 8-11 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 24, in the Student Center Ballrooms. The doors open at 7 p.m. for this event that typically draws hundreds of people. In fact, more than 600 attended in 2009 and organizers hope for an even larger crowd this year.

Semi-formal attire is required for the ninth annual gala.

If your salsa dancing skills are non-existent or perhaps a bit rusty, you can prepare for Noche de Gala with free dance lessons. Lessons will be from 7 to 10 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 22, at the Student Center’s Ballroom D.

Event sponsors are Sigma Lambda Beta fraternity, Special Programs and Center Events (SPACE) and the Hispanic Student Council. For more information, look online at www.siucstudentcenter.org or call 618/453-1142.

Noche de Gala is one of the many diverse, informative, and entertaining events held at SIUC during Latino Heritage Month. Activities continue through Oct. 23 and you can view the complete schedule at http://news.siuc.edu/news/September10/090810cjm10244.html.