When Wrightwood resident Paula Ames-Axt won a private concert in a charity raffle, she didn’t keep it for herself — she turned it into a community-wide Memorial Day celebration that raised $900 for two local animal rescues.
Ames-Axt won a performance by country singer Sofie Tabesh during the Wrightwood Strong fundraiser held after the Bridge Fire. Inspired to give back, she organized the Wrightwood Memorial Day Country Celebration on Saturday, May 24, transforming a personal prize into a free event for the entire town.
“I thought, let’s do something that brings people together and helps a good cause,” she said. “It’s my first time organizing something like this, and I couldn’t have done it without the help of so many in our community.”
Held at the Wrightwood Community Services District parking lot and adjacent Vivian Null Park, the afternoon festival featured live music, vendors, raffles, and children’s activities. Performers included Tabesh, Chris Canon, David Cimino, and the Blue-Eyed Coyotes, who donated their time to support the event.
A 22-person military crew from Fort Irwin arrived early to assist with setup. “These young men and women were incredible,” Ames-Axt said. “They were so respectful, hardworking, and essential to the success of the event. I feel our country is in good hands.”
Families gathered in the grass to watch kids take turns on a mechanical bull, while others browsed booths or enjoyed face painting by I Dyed. Informational displays and demonstrations were offered by groups like Slithers and Crawls, while artisan vendors such as Moonlit Potion Peddler Herbalist, Whole Life Soap, and Two Handcrafted added a local flair. Food vendors included Abby’s Food Truck, Out West Jerky Co., I Heart Catering, and Mile High Pizza.
A raffle table displayed 28 themed gift baskets donated by businesses including Jenny Bagz, Mountain Hardware, Applewood Court, 6000’, and The Village Grind. All proceeds were split evenly between The Littlest Pet Shop and Rover Ranger Rescue.
The Littlest Pet Shop focuses on rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming a variety of animals. Rover Ranger Rescue specializes in dog adoption and public education about spaying, neutering, and microchipping.
“It was an amazing event,” said Corina Weimer of The Littlest Pet Shop. “We are so grateful to Paula and her crew. The funds were immediately used to cover a veterinary bill for a 10-year-old stray dog found in Wrightwood. She’s now recovering in foster care.”
Ames-Axt credited the support of local organizations, including the Wrightwood Chamber of Commerce, WCSD, WPOA, Wrightwood Village Foundation, and Mountain High. She also thanked individual volunteers, including Teshia Velasquez, Dina Gamboa, Carol Pettegrew, Jenny and Jeff Zumkley, Janice Quick, Sarah Bailey, and Jan DiAngelo. Special thanks went to First Lt. Robert Deavers and his U.S. Army team from Fort Irwin.
“On a day meant to honor our heroes, we came together with music, fun, and generosity,” she said. “I’m honored and proud to be part of a community that shows up like Wrightwood does.”
To support the rescues, contact The Littlest Pet Shop at 909-921-8790 or Rover Ranger Rescue at 760-221-2924.
