Dance Marathon’s popular annual fundraiser has come and passed successfully by meeting —  and beating — their ambitious goal. This year’s  DM special events committee, aided and abetted by eager Viking bidders, buckled down to raise $1,200 more than last year’s earnings. TBay 2012 grossed $3,621 for this year’s School Chest beneficiary, Special Gifts Theater.

On Friday, April 20, spirited bidders engaged in active auction combat at the tBay tables until the last possible moment to make sure they won the auction. Valuable items such as  autographed pro bowl cleats (donated by social studies teacher John Connelly) were being auctioned off, and were a big hit among bidders. Matt Forte’s signed cleats went for $175, but those of Julius Peppers were claimed for $269.

Other lucky bidders scored Prom and Limo packages, weekend Wisconsin getaways, cookies, pies, gift cards and even a homemade blueberry pie.

Dance Marathon 2012 will be held Saturday, May 26, at Niles West High School. Stayed tuned for more details.

PHOTO BY KARYN MALENCH