The La Prairie Lioness Club's 17th annual Celebrity Auction at Canad Inns last night was a big success. Over $14,000 was raised at the auction with proceeds going to Central Plains Cancer Care. Auction Chairperson Heather Graham says she's happy with the amount of money raised.

"That's pretty much right in there with other years. It's down a little bit from the last couple of years, but you know what it's $14,000 more than this morning and it'll be put to good use so we're very happy with that."

She notes it was nice to see so many people at the auction.

"We had a lot of great items that were donated to raise money for Central Plains Cancer Care. We had a really good turn out of people that came to bid and purchase tickets and we're very happy with the outcome."

Graham says the night wouldn't have been possible without the celebrities involved.

"The more we get, the better the profits and Cancer Care needs all the support we can get and they need all of the dollars we can raise. We're very appreciative of all of the businesses and all of the people that have given their time and energy as celebrities to make this night work. We couldn't do it without the support from all of Portage. CFRY, Mix 96, and Portage Online have been a support to make the night what it is. Hopefully we'll get more people out next year."

Graham would also like to thank auctioneer Tim Rodgers for his work at the event.