It was a big night and when everything was counted, just under $36,000 was raised by the Portage for Humboldt benefit concert last week at Stride Place. Portage Regional Recreation Authority general manager David Sattler says it was an astounding success with over one thousand people showing up to enjoy the music and support the event. The money is going to the Humboldt Broncos Memorial fund.

(L-R) David Sattler & Paul Harland"It's impressive," says Sattler. "Paul Harland (Golden West Broadcasting station manager) reached out about a week before for the event to see if we could do it. So, to get everything in place and ready to go, and raise that kind of money for this cause, is a huge testament to our community. I think Portage has a reputation for always trying to help out when they can. And I guess that's Manitoba in general, too."

He adds these funds will go to any type of expense, for whatever can help the community of Humboldt. The hockey team, the first responders, the families and more. 

Paul Harland says they didn't really know what to expect. He notes he expected a good turnout and explains it didn't take long to come together when they began organizing everything. He notes Sattler was immediately on board, and when they reached out to some other community groups, everyone was eager to join.

Harland extends a big thank-you to the PRRA staff for all they did for the rink and facility and also gave special mention to Keystone Sports. The t-shirts Keystone provided brought in just under $9,000. Harland says he thanks all of Portage la Prairie, as well as the volunteers who gave their time and effort. He adds it's gratifying to send this amount of money to Humboldt, and he knows they'll be very grateful for it.

Sattler also extended a thank-you to the PCI high school students who came and volunteered to remove the entire setup on Wednesday night. He says a large event was scheduled for the next morning, and that would not have been possible without the students' help.