Portland Harbor Hotel’s ice bar raised more than $17,000 for local groups

Portland Harbor Hotel’s popular Ice Bar raised over $17,000 in its three days, the hotel reported Tuesday. These funds will be shared with three local organizations: Center for Grieving Children, Junior Achievement and Share our Strength Southern Maine. An additional $2,300 was raised for the American Red Cross for support for relief work in Haiti, the hotel reported.

Funds are raised through the $10 coverage charge at the door. This year’s donation is nearly twice the amount donated last year; attendance exceeded all expectations at the Ice Bar, one of Portland’s most highly anticipated winter events.

General Manager Gerard Kiladjian spoke of the popularity of the Ice Bar: “It’s really wonderful to have so many people come out in January, help raise money for local charities and have fun at the same time. It’s an honor to be able to help these worthy organizations.”

Kiladjian added, “Many thanks to Harding Smith from Front Room, Grill Room and Corner Room and DennyMike’s ‘Cue Stuff, people raved about the food. Thanks also to sponsors Absolut, Shipyard and Red Stag by Jim Beam; all this support truly made the event a success.”

Planning for Ice Bar 2011 has already begun. For more information about the Portland Harbor Hotel, visit www.portlandharborhotel.com, or call 775-9090.