This year's Production Number had to be one of the most memorable happenings that day. Professional singer, April Vogel, appeared on stage singing "If We Hold On Together." No sooner did she begin to sing when the sheer white drapes lit up, slowly began to open, a misty gold fog lingered and forward through the mist appeared a black Arabian gelding and bay mare pulling an antique buggy (owned by Dale Brannon of Spokane) with driver Jerry Allen. As the buggy passed through the drawn drapes and into the view of the audience, through the mist you could see the most precious young girl waving to the crowds and blowing kisses. As she was driven past the audience they stood up from their chairs, giving a standing ovation before the performance had even begun. A voice announced, "Ladies & Gentlemen, please welcome our 1995 Ambassador of Good Will for Wishing Star Gallop, 5-year-old Jourdyn McClain." As the buggy reached the stage, this little Wish Child was escorted from the buggy onto the stage as April continued singing. Jourdyn was placed on a stool, and what unfolded was breathtaking to behold. I don't think anyone present will ever forget that moment!
Later, April returned to the stage with five Wishing Star Children following her. She sat down on a chair that was center stage, and the children circled around her as she begain to sing "Angels Among Us." The children listened to her story and then joined her on the chorus. As they began to sing, more children came onto the stage joining the others singing. The words to the song were perfect and touched the hearts of all who were there. Upon completion of this number, April spoke about the importance of Wishing Star's mission for its children, the much appreciated support of all who had attended, and the heroism she had seen in the children of Wishing Star. From those words she began to sing the well noted song, "Hero." The stage was filled with the area talent of April Vogel, Barbara Turner, wish families, Janet Gorman & April Vogel's children's Choir, Wishing Star Gallop staff and families. After the song ended, the sound of rockets were unexpectedly heard. Up came streamers from behind the stage curtains, shooting to the roof of the arena, in beautiful colors of red, blue, yellow, green, & orange, then slowly descending on all the children who had sung on stage. The performers, not having any knowledge of what was happening, showed signs of shock and amazement! It was a treat to see! This performance was one of the many highlights that signify the quality of the Gallop, and its prestige in the Northwest!
Before the auction started, wish parent, Janell Elliott came out on stage and spoke to the audience about what life is like dealing with a child who has a life threatening illness. She went on to say how important events like Gallop are to raise funds for wishes. The importance of Wishing Star and what it means to families being referred. She spoke with love, compassion, sincerity, hope, and appreciation. It was an inspiring opportunity to hear her talk about the foundation and it's value to wish families.
In addition to the Big "D" Blankets and Patrick Swayze's poster, this year's event also offered other non-stallion service auctioned items. John & Joyce Wing of Wing's Fencing and Fabrication once again donated a free standing heavy duty galvanized 12x12 paneled corral with a superbull gate. It retails for $390 and sold for $400 to Dave Boles of Mead, WA. Wings also donated a beautiful ceramic Bald Eagle that was won in a raffle by Patricia Hammons of Nine Mile Falls. Al Randall of Pine Rock Marketing - in cooperation with Professional Choice Sports Medicine Products, Super Sweats, Whitehorse Products, Ortho-Flex, Vita Flex, Lexington Safety Products, and Rio Vista - donated a complete Trainers Package retailing for $573 and selling to Todd Havens of Spokane, Washington for $373. Gary Johnson of Iron Horse Construction donated a Stall door that was iron framed with solid steel bars and tongue & grove. It retails for $210 and sold for $200 to Claudia Ridley of Priest River, ID. Spokane Falls Equestrian Centre raffled off thirty days boarding and training by Eddie Biegler that was won by Debbie Lochridge of Deer Park, WA. Wishing Star thanks John & Joyce Wing, Al Randall, Barbara Thornton, Eddie & Dee Biegler, and Gary Johnson. Your efforts and support will bring a smile to a little child's face!
The evening ended in great success. The stallion services auction attributed more than $55,000 to the gross figure of over $82,000. The evening earnings had topped all years prior. Coordinator, Barbara Turner, tells us that the success of this event would not have been possible if not for the sponsors. "Our sponsors are where it begins, but not where it ends. Gallop's success comes from the support, contributions, and donations of stallion owners, trade show participators, volunteers, businesses, and spectators. I'm also proud of the horse industry. Regardless of breeds, we've all come together to work for a great cause and successful event. Everyone plays an important roll in this success story."
As you read this article, "wishes" have been completed and are currently being granted to several children. Wishes for a horse, computer, piano, hot tub, pool, car, TV/VCR, a cruise, a shopping spree, to meet Barney, a trip to Tennessee, Alaska, or Illinois, to attend an NBA game, a Sea World trip, a trip to the San Diego Zoo, a Tampa Bay game, a bedroom remodeled, or our most popular request - Disneyland or DisneyWorld. All who supported the Gallop should be very proud of your efforts. You've helped to make "special" children's dreams a reality. I thank you all!"
For more information on stallion services, booths, volunteering help or being a sponsor - Contact Gallop Coordinator, Barbara Turner - 466-8719 / 325-9803 or Wishing Star Foundation, Attn.: Barbara Turner, W. 539 Sharp Ave - Spokane, WA 99201.
