Gabriel's Angels Walk for Kids and Doggie Beach Party By Myra Richman What's in a name? Just ask: Fifi, Sweet Pea, Annabella, Hiccup and Maverick, to name a few. They frolicked, walked, sniffed, slurped water and played with hundreds of families while dressed to the nines. Gabriel’s Angels’ biggest fundraiser (and fun-raiser) of the year was the 6th Annual Walk for Kids and Doggie Beach Party Saturday, March 4, at Tempe’s Kiwanis Park. As always, the need for their Pet Therapy Program is great and ever-growing. In 2005 alone, Gabriel's Angels served over 15,000 abused and neglected children in the Valley. Their goal is to raise funds and increase public awareness about how Gabriel’s Angels’ unique Pet Therapy Program brings light, hope and joy into the lives of Arizona’s abused children. What a difference these animals can play in the lives of these children and this special event helped highlight the special bond between children and animals. In the two-mile walk, every walker received a breakfast snack and water. There was no end to the excitement...including live music, bouncers for kids, refreshments and other goodies. And, of course, there were many doggie models showing off their wares in the now famous Doggie Beauty Contest. Canine Categories included Best Bathing Suit, Best Beachwear and Best Body. Another highlight of the day was the Walk Pledge Contest with fabulous prizes awarded to those who gathered the most pledges for the day. The big winner received their choice of a trip for four to Disneyland (three nights and four days) or a resort stay with $300 in airfare to over 80 U.S. resorts. The runner-up was awarded the vacation not selected by the winner! Other prizes included two round-trip tickets on Southwest Airlines, a Grand Canyon trip, and even a plane ride for breakfast in Payson. Fun raffle prizes included: 2 tickets to see the Sizzling Hot Phoenix SUNS vs. Lakers Friday, April 7, with VIP Parking Pass. (Approx Value: $190+), donated by United Health Care; 4 tickets to Coyote Country, Phoenix Coyotes vs. Dallas Stars, April 8, with VIP Parking Pass. (Approximate Value: $400), donated by United Health Care; 4 tickets to Coyote Country, Phoenix Coyotes vs. Dallas Stars April 8, (Approximate Value: $300), donated by United Health Care; Two day, one night stay at Amara Creekside Resort in Sedona (Valued at $250); See www.amararesort.com for resort information. For more information on Gabriel's Angels, visit www.petshelpingkids.org.