A few years ago, Kent Fluke had approached me asking if I would have the time and interest to help him start this event in our area. At the time, I knew of the Make A Wish Foundation, but like many, I didn't know just exactly what it was. I'll never forget the first year of the event, held in Blairsville, PA. More specifically, I will never forget the very moment that I entered the Kids tent, where the Wish Kids were busy doing artwork and playing games. Almost immediately my eyes were filled with tears as I watched these kids. My thoughts went quickly to my own daughter, who is a perfectly healthy youngster. Looking at these kids, thinking of the daily struggles each one has, and yet, seeing the smiles and the joy on their faces, I was suddenly filled with a joy that I cannot express. I realized at that very moment, I was doing something that affected these children in a positive way. I also reflected later on that day, how truly fortunate we really are. We need to take a moment and look at our own lives. We complain, or get upset about the littlest of things. We think that our life is tough. And yet, that day, I saw 15 little kids who had it harder than any of us will ever know.
Over the years now, I have seen our event grow. The hard work and dedication of Kent Fluke, Jerry Reams and the rest of the committee leaves me in awe at times. I would like to name members of our committee who have made this a huge success, but I fear that I may forget someone, and that wouldn't be fair. These people start planning the next convoy the week after it ends. They all have full time jobs, and spend many hours outside of their work focusing on this event. Over the years I have been on several committees, but can truly say that I have never been with a group that is dedicated, and works harder, than this one.
Walking up the Midway at Bedford once a year, you see dozens and dozens of trucks, shined up, drivers sharing a laugh with one another, you can pretty much see every brand of wax & polish known to mankind, and USUALLY you see the wife out there polishing her husbands truck (still haven't figured that one out!). It's a day where be it Ward, Smith, J-Line and dozens of other carriers come together for one goal, the Wish Kids. You will see all of these drivers trying hard to get a Wish Kid for the convoy, sadly enough, we never have enough kids to fill all the trucks. So the drivers offer to take the Wish Kids families as well. These drivers sacrifice their time and money to be at this event. And all their hard work cleaning and time devoted, it isn't for a trophy. We all know in our hearts why we come each year. I am proud of these drivers, carriers and their devotion to this event, as they should be as well. They should be proud knowing that they made a difference.
People like RJ & Mary Wentworth, owners of the White Knight, travel all over the country each year, yet still manage to make time to come to our event. Giving truck rides to the public, donating a large portion of their monies to our event. Vendors like Detroit Diesel come out, displaying their products for all to see. The crafters and other vendors all come out. And talking with them, it's not about selling as much as it is the reason we all come.
I could go on and on, but I'll stop here. Please understand that these thoughts and comments are solely my own. But Kent, you dreamed of making this event reality, congratulations, you started something wonderful. As for everyone else, I sure hope to see you at the Fairgrounds in September!
Thanks again
Rex A. Johnsonbaugh
Event Co-Chair