Island Extravaganz Raises Thousands For People With Disabilities

Volunteers are vital to Disabled Sports. Jarrett Smith and Alicia Vennos are two of them, volunteering at Island Extravaganza registration

Despite the raging snowstorm outside and the threat of power loss, more than 400 people headed to Canyon Lodge for Island Extravaganza on Saturday, December 12, 2009.

It was the most people ever, according to Disabled Sports Director Kathy Copeland. “I was blown away by the people who came,” she said.

Executive Director, Kathy Copeland, starts the night out right with a great attitude ... and rasta wig!

Donors were overwhelmingly generous and Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra auctioned and raffled over 275 items to raise money for its adaptive programs. The grand raffle prize of an island trip for two went to Dennis Linn of Westlake Village. Pictures Here.

Simone Ardouin, creator of the popular 'DSES Duck Pond', wins the best costume of the night! - Susan Morning Photo

Andrew Jones of the Silver Lake Resort in June Lake won the "Duck Pond" prize: a fabulous Mammoth staycation that includes two nights at Tallus, a pinot noir gift basket, catered dinner for four from Papered Guest and Java Joint, and breakfast at the Breakfast Club.

Oren Tanzer and Lauren Franklin surround a friend and take a break from the auction tables - Susan Morning Photo

The reggae sound of Santa Barbara's One Two Tree and beats from DJ Shawn Roj kept the crowd rocking until midnight. No amount of snow could have stopped Island Extravaganza guests and supporters from having an amazing time.

Volunteers Amy and Jill Grahek celebrate island style

Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra would like to thank the crew at Canyon Lodge, the new home of Island Extravaganza, for providing an excellent venue and incredible service. Our deepest thanks to the event producers at Relevé Unlimited and to Bella Vista Design, who made the night beautiful.

Mike Munson and Stephanie Wolff, owners of Mammoth Pet Shop, pose with their island drinks

Other wonderful sponsors include Mammoth Resort, KMMT/KRHV, BBJ Linens, Town of Mammoth Lakes, Mammoth Channel 72, and Disabled Sports USA.

Steve Rose, general manager of the Westin Monache Resort, and his wife Marcia buy a duck - Susan Morning Photo

Table sponsors included State Farm Insurance - Linda Wright, Footloose, friends from Mammoth Hospital, Sunrise Rotary, Mammoth Lakes Lions, Neubauer Jennison, friends from Mammoth Resort, Industrial Metal Supply, Paws 4 Healing Therapy Dogs, Drea Perry Photography and friends, and Michelle and Scott Quirsfeld.

Due to the huge fundraising success, Disabled Sports Eastern Sierra can now say yes to every student who needs a scholarship this season!

Island Extravaganza's success depends on a dedicated group of volunteers who spend three months planning and organizing this fundraiser. Generosity, commitment and love from so many people in this amazing community make our program possible.

With our deepest gratitude, The Disabled Sports Crew