MEDIA CONTACT: Monica Jara
561-297-3607, faudmarathon@yahoo.com

FAU Students Host Dance Marathon to Help Children's Miracle Network

BOCA RATON, FL (April 5, 2004) - Florida Atlantic University students took to their feet for a great cause in an effort to raise money and awareness for the Children's Miracle Network. For 16 consecutive hours, 38 dancers stayed on their feet to participate in FAU's Fourth Annual Dance Marathon themed, "Dance a Night for Children's Lives."

This year, a total of $7,000 was raised for Children's Miracle Network, the alliance of premier hospitals for children. All proceeds went directly to Shands Children's Hospital at the University of Florida to help purchase medical equipment, provide diversionary activities for children and help fund medical research.

Dance Marathon 2004 got off to a great start with an opening ceremony featuring Eric Kristensen, a DJ from The BUZZ 103.1 FM. After recognizing all the coordinators and dancers, visitors enjoyed the performance of local band Ebeneezer. Miracle families in attendance shared their stories throughout the night about how Shands Children's Hospital helped them when no one else could. All dancers were then taught the Dance Marathon Line Dance, a fun combination of moves set to an upbeat mix of music, ranging from Frank Sinatra to Britney Spears. The event included more activities throughout the night: a hula hoop contest, salsa dancing lessons, casino game time, a Capoeira martial arts demonstration and 80's theme time. The dance marathon ended on Sunday morning with a closing ceremony featuring WPEC News Channel 12's Ric Blackwell revealing the total amount of money raised.

Dance Marathon 2005 is tentatively scheduled to take place in February 2005. For additional information, contact Monica Jara, dance marathon chair, at 561-297-3607 or faudmarathon@yahoo.com.

- FAU -