Summer Fling 2009 was an EXCELLENT event thanks to our sponsors, attendees, and the community! Please read the recap below and scroll down through some of the pictures from the event! If you want to comment on the event and have your comments posted, feel free to send them by clicking here!
Odyssey House of Utah's 23rd Annual Summer Fling
On July 10th, 2009, more than 300 Odyssey House supporters gathered at the stunning Salt Lake Country Club to celebrate the organization and combine efforts toward another successful year. Many guests were looking forward to the traditional Summer Fling favorites. The always-enticing silent auction boasted numerous local get-aways, a huge assortment of art, and creative jewelry, among many other items. The community has consistently been generous in supporting Summer Fling with unique and desirable donations that all combine for some fun competition. The live auction was an astounding success thanks to the antics of the customary auctioneers, Salt Lake County councilman, Randy Horiuchi, and Odyssey House Board Member, Bob Slingerland. Acting Executive Director, Adam Cohen, facilitated the presentation, introducing two courageous clients currently taking the difficult steps on the journey to health who shared their tragic and uplifting stories with a few tears and a lot of passion. The Odyssey Choir, a tradition from the beginning, sang one of their favorite songs to acoustic guitars. Highlights included an appearance by the beautiful Miss Utah USA, Laura Chukanov, in support of the "Princesses for a Day with Miss Utah USA" live auction package and the sensational cuisine laid out by the Country Club.
This year, Odyssey House added in some new and exciting elements to the event that will likely become traditions for years to come. The event was held on the grounds of the Salt Lake Country Club for the first time, thanks to the tremendous growth in the event, the beautiful surroundings, and the generosity and service of the Country Club. Quite possibly the favorite new addition was the 1st Annual TechnaGlass Putt-Off. With an incredible grand prize at stake, many event participants got involved in the putt-off and it whittled down to the final winner long after the sun had gone down and lights had to be brought out to see the ninth hole. All of the proceeds of the event go directly to supporting clients who could not otherwise pay for treatment, as it is Odyssey House's mission to serve those that need help the most.
A special thank you is needed for Morgan Stanley Bank who matched every dollar raised, doubling the impact of every contribution. Their generosity was matched by the outpouring of support from the individuals in the crowd as they donated cash toward the Martindale scholarship fund throughout the evening, giving more than ever in spite of the economy. As always, Odyssey House has our superb Board of Directors and Advisory Board to thank for their donations, countless hours of volunteer support, and personal dedication to the success of Odyssey House and this annual celebration.
Several attendees join on the 9th hole green for a putt-off to win a dinner for four at the Salt Lake Country Club, a brand new Ping Craz-E putter, and a week-long condo stay in Moab!
Odyssey House Board Member Rachael Schmidt enjoying the festivities
Event emcee Randy Horiuchi
The Stoddard Brothers provided excellent music throughout the evening, ensuring an enjoyable event
