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Jill Wagner’s annual fundraiser Patriotic Pick that went down at her farm in pouring rain evidently broke the records in raising funds for the Special Operations Warrior Foundation. About 600 attendees all braved the rain to support the military families on a cause. There were times for a silent auction and a live band. Wagner shared a video reflecting on what the importance of the event means beyond just the weather downpour.
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On the front porch with her pet dog Hank, Wagner painted almost a real picture of admitting the whole story. She agreed that she was a bit bummed out about the weather. She’d had so many sunny days in the forecast! She then went on: There was this moment I journaled during that event while I was onstage and casting a look out: When people show up to something that isn’t perfect, it means way more to them than showing up when everything’s easy.
“Everybody was so cool and they were laughing,” Wagner said in her video. “I saw one woman, she just rared back and she was just laughing in the rain.” During Justin Todd’s shtick, she started to dance-a little overwhelmed by the way the symbolism banger her. The rain was such a powerful metaphor for ‘We push through sickness and health,’ which, of course, fits perfectly for raising money for the families of those who had lost military loved ones.
The comment box was filled with nothing but affection and support. One commenter wrote: ” So beautifully said… thank you for reminding us that there is so much good out there.” That sentiment really captures the vibe of the event-everyone coming together despite less than perfect conditions because they believed in the cause.
Another user said: “Even with the rain had a wonderful time!!” proving that the weather did not dampen spirits in any way. Others smiled back: “I’ll dance in the rain ! Well done 👏,” which is perfectly harmonizing with Wagner’s spontaneous dancing-in-the-rain moment.
The spirit of togetherness was echoed in many comment threads. “The amount of work that you and your family put into the charity and community is just amazing” was one comment made. Wagner replied almost humbly, stating that they “just do our little part,” hence crediting the community and friends who assist in making it a reality.
There are already many pledges for next year’s event. A user said, “I will hare lip hell to make it next year.” Daniel humorously replied to that, Immediately assuming it will rain again next year as well, and then inviting everyone to lovely dance in the rain with her.
The silent auction alone raked in a little more than $13,000 from donated items, Wagner said, promising that she’d reveal the final raised amount after her team has had some time to decompress and tally everything. She also pledged to post some professional photographs from the event on her page so the attendees could check it out, to see if they’re nailed in any shots.
What started as a weather disappointment ended up being a great example of community spirit and the commitment to helping military families. Wagner says sometimes a perfect moment is imperfect, and there’s something captured in her reflection. What finally came out of this year’s Patriotic Pick is that a little rain isn’t going to keep the people away from what really matters.
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Wagner also expressed her love for the venue, saying she’s always enjoyed Windy Hill Farm in East Tennessee, where the event took place. Additionally, she is looking forward to future events like the Focus Actors Conference in Nashville.
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