Over 200 guests packed the gymnasium for the 42nd Annual St. Mary School Auction Nov. 9. The gym was transformed to reflect the theme Casino Night and guest were encouraged to dress accordingly. The doors opened at 6 p.m. with appetizers, dinner, cash bar, and live music provided by Joe Houdek, a St. Mary alumnus and current director of music ministries at Holy Spirit Parish in Grand Rapids.
Attendees enjoyed games including raffles, players cards and the chance to spin the Eagles Wheel of Chance. Auctioneer Dan Boss, led the live auction which brought in over $26,000. Live auction offerings included handcrafted student art projects made from repurposed items, original photographs, a painted stained glass window and a hand-made chess/checker board with playing pieces. Other live auction items included Dessert of the Month, Soup of the Month, Dinner with the Priest, A Sanibel Island Vacation, Pontoon Ride with Dinner, and Dinner with the Bishop.
The online auction, which began on Nov. 1 and ended on Nov. 9 was a huge success with over 650 items and 400 bidders from throughout Michigan and several other states. With the generosity of the school families, parishioners, community members and businesses, the event grossed over $100,000.
“We are truly blessed by such generosity,” said Advancement Director Barb Platts.
The event was sponsored by Advantage Electric, Floor Covering Brokers, Grand Traverse Refrigeration, Jade Tool, Pete & Lisa Miller, Schaub Team Premier Realty & Traverse Catholic Federal Credit Union. The proceeds of the Auction provide funding for athletic programs, school operations, our community playground and tuition scholarships
