In what promises to be one of the most anticipated events summer 2008, the annual fundraiser will feature food, awards and entertainment provided by the legendary Gladys Knight.

“This is the most important event of the year for us,” president of Equine Advocates Susan Wagner said. “We rely heavily on this to support more than 100 saved horses.”

Equine Advocates was started in 1996 and aims to protect, rescue and prevent abuse to horses through education, investigation, rescue efforts and getting information out to the public. Since its opening, Equine Advocates have been involved with the rescuing and placement of hundreds of abused or neglected horses all over the United States.

In order to keep the business running, Equine Advocates started the banquet and charity auction in 2002, which started out as a small event. This year, more than 600 people are expected to attend. This year, Dr. Patricia Hogan, one of the most respected equine veterinarians who testified before Congress in support of The American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act, will be awarded the Equine Advocates Safe Home Equine Protection Award and horse owner Virginia Kraft Payson will be awarded with the Ellen & Herbert Moelis Equine Savior Award for Philanthropy.

This year’s event will be held at Stonebridge Farm at Clark Road. Previously, the event took place at another nearby farm which has since become an equine training center with a Polytrack.

“We are very excited for this year’s event. Between the new awards and venue, as well as having Gladys Knight as our guest, I think this year will be successful,” Wagner said. “We are a little concerned with this uncertain economy, but we are cautiously optimistic that people will still come and support our cause.”

Limited tickets at $300 per person are available. For more information, call 518-245-1599.