In order to raise scholarship money, the A+ Wine and Food Tasting Extravaganza will by held next Wednesday, Oct. 16 in the Cotillion Ballroom.
Seven years ago, Bubba’s II owner Norm Swanner decided that more scholarships should be available for incoming Nicholls students.
“Norm has been a great supporter of Colonel athletics,” David Boudreaux, vice president for institutional advancement said.
“But Norm also has a good understanding that Nicholls State University should educate all of its students. He felt that the community could do something to help provide scholarships to local students,” Boudreaux said.
Last year, over $21,000 was raised. The high school recruiters seek out high school seniors who have demonstrated leadership ability while in school.
When they find such students, they are offered the A+ scholarship. The deans of each college are allotted an A+ scholarship to attract a student who is undecided, but perhaps leaning towards Nicholls.
In addition, the art department has been allowed to display and sell their artwork. The money raised was donated to the art department.
The money is raised in three ways. The first way of raising money is by the Gold Sponsor method. Individuals and businesses donate $500 for the Gold Sponsorship. In addition, tickets for the event are sold with prices ranging from $75-$100. The third method of raising money is through a silent and live auction held that night.
The auction list contains a variety of items. There is an overnight fishing trip for three, an original piece of folk art, three original Salvador Dali prints and gift certificates to fine restaurants.
Restaurants and individuals from different areas have donated the auction items.
George Picou, from Houma, has donated 16 bottles of fine wine. The culinary institute has donated various items. A donor from Colorado donated a football autographed by Joe Montana and an autographed baseball by Greg Maddox.
“I hope we get the same great support from our community this year that we’ve had in the past. We hope to see new faces as well. There’ll be great food, wine and live entertainment by Jazmine,” Boudreaux said.