“As is our custom on this occasion I will now ask Miss Wish to make the ceremonial wish for continued prosperity and health in the coming year. Following that she will be giving her rendition of “When You Wish Upon a Star,” the mayor proclaimed, dropping a golden coin into her hand.

That's too much. First you get us hocked following the car and then the bandstand and a girl named "Wish" makes a wish and we are left in suspense at the end. Great read. I will check out your other links and figure out what is going on in this story.