Local Democrats gathered on Sunday for "Chicken By the Sea," an annual fundraiser for the party. Hands were shaken, photos taken and chicken grilled to tender perfection, but the real action didn't start until the dessert auction, with Sen. Mike McGuire calling. Bids for pies and pastries started at a cool $40 and quickly skyrocketed into triple digits. A plate of handmade salted caramel candies made by Third District County Supervisor Mark Lovelace's daughter Abigail inspired the senator, Lovelace, Eureka City Councilmember Kim Bergel and State Board of Equalization member Fiona Ma to dance The Sprinkler. District Attorney Maggie Fleming's "Criminally Delicious Cheesecake" garnered a $250 winning bid and a spirited rendition of the "Running Man," with Arcata City Councilmember Sophia Pereira joining in. Sen. McGuire secured a plea for a second cheesecake from Fleming with an additional $250, remanded from a wealthy bidder. Both cheesecakes are scheduled for release within the next week. No word from Fleming on how realignment will affect the girth of local party members.