'Thank you for your support' was painted in place of 'Canadian Mental Health Saskatchewan' following a week of controversy because of the symbol on the roof. (Brady Bateman/paNOW Staff)

By paNOW Staff

Controversial Week

General Lee sells above expectations at Parkside Derby

Jul 28, 2019 | 11:58 AM

Despite a week of controversy, it was a record year for the car auction held at the annual Parkside Demolition Derby. Organizers had earlier figured the hoo-ha over the club’s use of a confederate flag had bolstered interest in the very popular and successful annual community fundraiser.

The controversy stemmed from the club’s use of the flag for their “General Lee” replica car from Dukes of Hazard. The controversy played a role in prompting several private and business donors to come forward with a total of $20,000 for the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA), according to Parkside Community Club Spokesperson Kerry Peterson. CMHA had been the initial beneficiaries.

“We had support [regarding the flag controversy] from all over Saskatchewan and Canada standing with us,” Peterson told paNOW. “It just shows you when we all stand up when some controversy shows up and we don’t just sit back, we can accomplish a lot of things together. It’s a good story.”

The car was auctioned off Saturday afternoon, going to the highest bidder Forbes Bros Construction, for a total of $15,000. The modified arrangement saw that money go directly to the Parkside Community Club.

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President of the Parkside Community Club, Jeff Ledding, said he didn’t expect the car to be auctioned at such a high price but he was thankful for the large turnout and thanked members of the community for their continued support.

“It was way above and beyond any of my expectations,” said Ledding.

“We just want to give a big thanks to Forbes Bros Construction for supporting the event.”

Organizers figured around 200 people came for the Saturday afternoon auction and up to 500 were at the demolition derby at times.

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panews@jpbg.ca