On Saturday, December 19th and Sunday, December 20th, 1998, Twelve Oaks Stables in Delray Beach, Florida will host an event to benefit the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program and the Make-A-Wish Foundation of South Florida. The event will feature clinics in dressage and show jumping by Olympic medallists Carol Lavell and Neal Shapiro.

The Toys for Tots Program collects and distributes toys to needy children who might otherwise receive none during the holiday season. The Make-A-Wish Foundation, grants the wishes of children from ages 2 to 18 who have terminal or life-threatening illnesses and will probably not reach their 18th year.

"Make-A-Wish is a great cause. We participate in a similar program at home," commented Carol Lavell. "It's one of our two favorite charities."

Neal Shapiro said, "To give happiness to and brighten the lives of kids who are not as fortunate as others is a good feeling. It's especially great at the holiday time of year."

Twelve Oaks Stables and trainer Lisa Payne are committed providing equestrian events that give back to the entire community.

New unwrapped toys is part of the fee for riders and spectators. "Don't get too attached to your toys," said event coordinator Nancey Fisher. "The Marines will be there to collect them."

"We are counting both on horsemen in south Florida and the entire community to help us raise toys and funds by participating in this event," Fisher explained. "Of course, I also have to mention sponsorship. Every dollar that goes out for non sponsored expenses is a dollar that cannot be used to grant the wishes of children who have only a short time to experience what they dream of. Please join with us to make dreams come true for children in our community."

"Many levels of sponsorship are available. Among these, we hope that companies, farms and private individuals will consider sponsoring one or more junior riders who would benefit from working with these Olympic riders, but who cannot afford to do so. Certainly, this fits in with our benefit's theme of making dreams come true."

A complimentary continental breakfast and lunch will be provided for riders and spectators. Multi-disciplinary demonstrations are planned for the mid-day break.

"We'd really like to expose both horsemen and the general public to a variety of equestrian disciplines," commented Fisher. "We're looking into carriage driving, reining and vaulting as possible demonstrations."

For information, registration or sponsorship inquiries, please call Nancey Phillips Fisher at (954) 429-9248 or (954) 415-3524.

The clinic schedule is also available for those interested in more information.