This year's Production Numbers had to be one of the most memorable happenings that day. Professional singer April Vogel, appeared on stage singing a very powerful song - "Dreams To Dream." No sooner did she begin to sing when the sheer white drapes lit up, slowly began to open; a misty blue fog lingered. Forward through the mist appeared a black Arabian gelding 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. A voice announced, "Ladies & Gentlemen, please welcome our 1996 Ambassador of Good Will for Wishing Star Gallop, 7-year-old Josie Fry." As the buggy reached the stage, this little wish child was escorted from the buggy onto the stage as April continued singing. Josie was placed on a stool, and what unfolded was breathtaking to behold. I don't think anyone there will ever forget that moment!
Later, April returned to the stage with six Wishing Star Children following
her. She sat down center stage, and the children circled around her as she
began to sing "The River." The children listened to her sing and then joined
her on the chorus. As they began to sing, more children came onto the stage
joining the others. The words to the song were perfect and touched the heart of
all those who were there. Upon completion of this number, April spoke on the
importance of Wishing Star's mission for its children, the appreciated support
of all who had come, and the importance of moments-initime for the Wishing Star
children. From those words, she sang the well noted song, "One Moment In Time."
The stage was filled with the area talent of April Vogel, Barbara Turner, wish
families, Janet Gorman & April Vogel's Childrens 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, and
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 "Jeanine McClain" came out on stage and spoke to the audience on what life is like dealing with a child with a life threatening illness. She went on to say how important events like Gallop were 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 of the foundation and its 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 auctionitems. John & Joyce Wing of Wing's Fencing and Fabrication once again donated a free standing heavy duty galvanized 12 x 12' panelled corral with a superbull gate. It retails for $390 and sold for $475 to Julie Lobban of Auburn, Wa. Al Randall of Pine Rock Marketing - in cooperation with Professional Choice Sports Medicine Products, Super Sweats, Ortho-Flex, Vita Flex, and Lexington Safety Products, donated a complete trainer's package retailing for $486 and selling to Rita Serwat of Rathdrum, Idaho for $250. Gary Johnson of Iron Horse Construction donated a Stall door that was ironed, framed with solid steel bars and tongue & grove, has fir and larch lumber. It retails for $230 and sold for $200 to Yvonne Reinbold of Sprague, Wa. Florian Erhart of Sculptures by Florian donated a beautiful 1.04 carat genuine Montana Sapphire appraised at a value of $250. It sold for $150 to Dave Boles of Mead, Wa. Wishing Star Thanks, John & Joyce Wing, Eagle Spirit Ceramics, Al Randall, Florian Erhart, 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 service auction attributed close to $52,000 to the gross figure of over $80,000. 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," Barbara said, "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, '67 Mustang, hot tub, fishing trip in Alaska, shopping spree, trip to Hawaii, Edmonton Mall, 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 / 744-3411 or Wishing Star Foundation, Attn.: Barbara Turner, W. 915 2nd Ave, Suite #3 - Spokane, WA 99204.
