CORNING — Hundreds of golfers gathered at The Links at Rolling Hills Casino and Resort Thursday morning to compete in the Paskenta Nomlaki Foundation’s annual Wish Upon a Par Charity Golf Tournament. The foundation holds the event to raise money to grant a special wish to a child who is fighting cancer. This year, 10-year-old Corning resident Angelee Terrones, who has leukemia, will be able to enjoy a trip to Disney World as her wish.
Chairman of the Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians Dru Alejandre gave a speech to the crowd before the golf commenced honoring Terrones. “I thank everyone for being here,” Alejandre said. “We’ve granted a number of wishes.
We put smiles on family’s faces. The kids honored are going through tough situations. This makes a difference in their lives.
I thank our sponsors too.” This year is the seventh event. “This event is my baby,” Alejandre said.
“This is a special event for the tribe.” Terrones attended the event with her parents and sister. Alejandre said Terrones loves dogs and Taylor Swift.
Terrones hasn’t been to Disney World before. “I’m so excited!” she said. “I’m really happy to be here.
” “The tribe understands how fortunate we are,” Alejandre said. “We give back to the community. Every year we raise $50,000 or more.
This is an incredible turnout. We needed extra golf carts!” Alejandre gave Terrones some positive words. “You are a beautiful girl and you are going to be successful in life,” Alejandre said as she stood with her family in front of a brightly colored altar of balloons reading Make-A-Wish.
The tournament was born after Make-A-Wish approached the tribe asking for a donation and Alejandre and the others suggested the tournament. Tribal Resource Principal Ben Gordon smiled broadly talking about the event. “We are dedicated to supporting tribes,” Gordon said.
“It’s a special relationship with the tribe and Make-A-Wish.” Golfer Greg Rosace was looking forward to playing at The Links for the first time. He said he’s played in similar tournaments and has been an avid golfer for for over 30 years.
“This is a great way to support the community and have some fun,” Rosace said. Regional Development Director of Make-A-Wish Costas Johnson also attended the event. “This year we’ve raised over $300,000,” Johnson said.
“It’s so important that the community comes together. We have granted 10,000 wishes..
