Mystic
Diane Russell
Planning is almost complete for an event celebrating the lifesaving work performed daily by the staff and volunteers of Equine Voices Rescue & Sanctuary in Amado, Ariz. For 21 years, this nonprofit organization has rescued hundreds of horses, burros, and mules from abuse, abandonment, neglect, starvation, slaughter, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Wild Horse Round-Ups, and the Premarin industry. This year’s event will be held on Sunday, Oct. 26, from 4 to 8 p.m. at Tubac Golf Resort located at 65 Avenida de Otero, Tubac, AZ 85646. The theme is “Mystic’s Masquerade.” Mystic is a beautiful, 26-year-old Percheron-cross mare who was rescued by Equine Voices in 2006, along with 35 other mares, from a closed Premarin farm in Canada. She was chosen as the inspiration for this year’s celebration.
This event promises to be a magical night for all and an opportunity for attendees to raise funds for a very important project: the purchase of additional land to give some of the herd the chance to experience more freedom, like they once enjoyed. One special Equine Voices’ horse is very deserving of a chance to live the life and freedom he once knew. Star’s Wind is a 24-year-old wild Mustang stallion who was among many rounded up by the BLM using helicopters flying at low level to stampede them into a trap. Separated from his family and traumatized from the experience, he was brought to a holding facility and left exposed to the elements with hundreds of other captured Mustangs. Star’s Wind was then inhumanely trucked to an auction where he was finally adopted. He lived in Arivaca, Ariz., until his owner passed away in 2024, leaving no arrangements for his care. Star’s Wind was abandoned and left to fend for himself on 20 acres of desert land. Through sheer determination and perseverance, he was able to survive on his own. He was rescued by Equine Voices in April of 2024 and today continues his transition to a better life. Star’s Wind is a symbol of the spirit of freedom, hope, and healing that Equine Voices stands for!
“Mystic’s Masquerade” will feature a gourmet three-course dinner, silent and live auctions, and music by local artist Ivan Orellana. To make a reservation, log on to equinevoices.org or contact the office at 520-398-2814. They recommend reserving early, as there is limited seating and the event sells out quickly. To donate auction items or for info on becoming an event sponsor, go to equinevoices.org or call the office. By attending, donating auction items, or becoming a sponsor, you are helping Star’s Wind and other rescued horses live the life they were meant to have. So, put on your mask, open your heart, and be part of helping Equine Voices turn a dream into reality—let’s set Star’s Wind free again!