Washington, D.C. -August 14- The Washington International Horse Show proudly hosts the Starlight-Starbright Children's Foundation as this year's principal charity for the 2005 fall event. During the week of October 25th through the 30th, as top equestrian competitors and their mounts compete for recognition and prizes, the lives of thousands of seriously ill children will be transformed with the help of WIHS proceeds.

This year the Washington International Horse Show introduces the Starlight-Starbright Pony Pavilion! Although the Pony Pavilion existed in the past, this year's venue will have a new look and feel. Kids and families can enjoy pony rides, face painting, temporary tattoos, arts and crafts, and other new, hands-on activities in honor of this special beneficiary.

Information will be provided about the charity, and participants can pick up complimentary magazines and DreamWorks movie posters. Attendees can meet some of the dedicated Starlight-Starbright volunteer staff, get their picture taken with the animals, and enjoy a memorable day of fun and excitement. Ticket holders have free admission to this event, while there is a charge of five dollars for non-ticket holders and ten dollars for families up to five people. Enjoy petting and grooming the ponies or getting a caricature drawn while learning about a great cause.

Cara Martin, the Executive Director of the beneficiary, enthusiastically reported, "On behalf of the Starlight-Starbright Children's Foundation, we are delighted to be the principal charity for the Washington International Horse Show! The event is a great tradition for all ages in the Washington D.C. area, and we are so pleased to be involved. We are excited about this year's Starlight-Starbright Pony Pavilion. I think it will be a lot of fun for all families attending the show and even for those who only attend the pavilion. I think it really ties in well with our charity and our quest for the joy and happiness of children."

The Starlight-Starbright Children's Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to brightening the lives of seriously ill children and their families. Peter Samuelson, a director in Hollywood, founded the organization with the hope of improving the lives of children and teenagers suffering from chronic, serious, or life threatening illnesses and injuries. Samuelson then partnered with friend and fellow director Steven Spielberg to further develop the foundation. Some of the illnesses the Starlight-Starbright children endure are cancer, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, heart disease, asthma, kidney disease, and burn and spinal cord injuries. The Starlight-Starbright Children's Foundation uses imaginative programs that educate these patients, uplift their spirits, foster a sense of community, and help alleviate pain and fear of prolonged illness.

Programs incorporate experts in pediatrics, technology, and entertainment who address the social, emotional, and medical aspects of living with a serious illness. These programs encourage suffering children and their families to take an active role in understanding and coping with their illnesses. This foundation touches the lives of over 180,000 children each month! Programs and products are available to children, their families, hospitals, clinics, schools, support groups, faith based organizations, and healthcare centers. Programs are administered through various national and international chapters, and donations can be made by phone or through mail.

For more information on Starlight Starbright Children's Foundation or to make a donation, please visit their local website at http://www.starlight-midatlantic.org/.

For more information on the Washington International Horse Show, please visit their website at www.wihs.org