An annual event that raises funds to support arts in the schools is set for this Friday night. The program benefits more than 30,000 area students through the free School Cultural Arts Programs sponsored by the Surry Arts Council.

The 2010 ArtsBall is black-tie optional, and begins at 6:30 p.m. at Cross Creek Country Club. It will include cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a seated dinner, a silent and live auction, and music by the Craig Woolard Band. An early bird preview and bidding on auction items will be held from noon until 6 p.m. Tickets are $75.

Tanya Jones, executive director of the Surry Arts Council, said the council is hoping to raise between $20,000 to $30,000 this year, which solely goes to fund arts in education.

“Most people in the community have children in the schools or have family, friends, or employees who have kids in the schools — this event is the primary source of funds that supports the free in-school cultural arts programs provided by the SAC,” Jones said.

She said the Surry County School System has been hugely supportive of the ArtsBall this year. She said the schools have contributed items such as picnic tables, a wheelbarrow with spring garden items, a Twilight series basket, and baskets for reading.

She said local chefs also have donated different meals that they will prepare for families. Some of the chefs will be cooking meals in homes. She said those are really popular.

Nancy Malone, president of the SAC board of directors, is heading up the event.

“There will be something for everyone at the silent auction including coastal vacations, music, movies, books, Master Gardener planned and planted planters, bulbs, art work, photography, outdoor gear, homecooked meals, and much, much more,” said Malone. “It’s all for the children and to raise funds for the in-school cultural arts programs for our children. What project could be better?”

Jones said that invitations were not sent out this year because everyone is invited.

“We want people to call and come,” Jones said. She said about 100 tickets have been sold so far, but she is looking to sell at least 50 more.

The meal this year will be an Angus beef steak and tempura shrimp with a caper remoulade sauce, baby vegetables, chateaux potatoes, chocolate ganache terrine with raspberry and Florentine Tuile.

“The menu is awesome and there’s lots to do at the party with the silent and live auction,” Jones said.

Just last week, 5,000 students were touched by arts council programs on black history, Jones said.

For more information or for reservations, call the Surry Arts Council at 786-7998 or 1-800-286-6193.

Contact Mondee Tilley at mtilley@mtairynews.com or at 719-1930.