The 29th annual FC auction got underway the evening of March 17, with a near-sellout crowd of 350 in attendance.

Rather than looking like a typical sporting event, the FC Gym was decorated to set the tone and usher in the night ahead. The annual spring fundraiser brought in an estimated $100,005 to help bridge the gap between tuition income and campus expenses.

Superintendent Debbie Siebert shares the overarching purpose of the auction.

“It’s a twofold purpose,” Siebert said. “One is for fellowship and fun, and the other it to help raise money for the school. The money goes to help with all of our programs.”

The gala event featured auctioneer, Joel Bleeker as well as Ralph Wood presiding over the festivities. Wood is not only the longest running television sportscaster in Fresno, but he is also the parent of senior Adam.

“I was honored to be asked,” Wood said. “I wanted to do anything I could do to help, especially with what the school has done for Adam.”

The sound of clinking glasses and laughter permeated throughout the FC gym as guests dined on a braised, pan-roasted beef dinner. The banquet, which was catered by Pardini’s, included scalloped potatoes, green beans, salad and rolls. Guests who sought a creamy cheesecake or plate of brownies would have to bid against other tables to satisfy their sweet tooth.

At 7:30 p.m. sharp, the live auction began. The auctioneer got the ball rolling with quick humor and “speed-talking.” The first item to be auctioned off was second grade student Max Hinton?s balloon animal services for a party of choice. Hinton entertained the crowd by creating a balloon animal and then balancing it on the tip of his nose. His skills garnered $350 for the school.

The live auction included items such as Eye-Q LASIK eye surgery, dinner for eight at Roger Rocka’s, a one week stay at a South Lake Tahoe Condo and a new iPad 3.

The most active bidding war was over a one-of-kind handmade quilt featuring original drawings from Amy Witter’s kindergarten class. When all was said and done, the quilt brought in $2,500.

After the live auction was over, the school had raised roughly $99,705. Minutes after the closing prayer Siebert received a $300 donation which helped meet the intended goal.

For more information on the annual FC auction, read the March 13, 2011, article, Auction brings in $109k, links FC community or contact the FCS office at 559.299.1695.