Shelbyville Times-Gazette: News : Horses and horse shows

Horses and horse shows

A new view inside Calsonic Arena (05/24/13)
New renovations to the Hall of Fame Club inside Calsonic Arena make it easier to view activities in the arena from the club. A new counter, new and less-obstructed windows, and new chairs allow visitors to the club to sit at the windows facing the arena and clearly see what's going on inside, said Celebration CEO Mike Inman...

Cool spray on a hot day (05/24/13)
Boy, that feels gooooooood! Jessica Hleback gives her horse Jose's Last Rose a bath in preparation for the 43rd annual Spring Fun Show at Calsonic Arena this week. (T-G Photo by Jim Davis)

Additional classes added for Spring Fun Show (05/23/13)
The 43rd annual Spring Fun Show kicks off tonight in Calsonic Arena on the Celebration grounds. The spring Tennessee Walking Horse show, held each Memorial Day weekend, is run by the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. "We're excited," said Celebration CEO Mike Inman, who said midday Wednesday that based on the number of out-of-town trainers who'd already arrived for the show, participation looked to be strong...

ThorSport to host open house Friday (05/22/13)
MURFREESBORO -- ThorSport Farm and FarmPaint.com will hold an open house on Friday, May 24, featuring company information, tours of the new buildings and facility, live entertainment and a meet and greet with two NASCAR Camping World Truck Series drivers...

Celebration tour (05/21/13)
Mike Inman, Celebration CEO, takes 28 equine science students from Colorado State University on a tour of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration grounds on Monday.

Celebration rentals (05/15/13)
The Shelbyville-Bedford County Chamber of Commerce is providing local home owners assistance in renting their homes during the upcoming Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, which is being held Aug. 21-31. If you are interested in making your home available to our visitors, contact the Chamber office at 684-3482 or e-mail bedfordchamber@bellsouth.net...

Marsh, Tracy 'disappointed' by veto (05/14/13)
Gov. Bill Haslam on Monday vetoed a bill that would require images documenting animal abuse be turned over to law enforcement within 48 hours, saying his main concern is its constitutionality. State Attorney General Bob Cooper last week said in a legal opinion that the measure would be "constitutionally suspect" because it could violate Fifth Amendment protections against self-incrimination and for placing burdens on news collection....

A weekend of fun activities (05/07/13)
Absolute Skyy, Hannah Pulvers up, presented the flag to open Friday night's Row McLaughlin and Greg Maupin Benefit Horse Show at Bedford County Agriculture and Education Center. (T-G Photo by John I. Carney)

Horse trainer denies charges (05/03/13)
Tennessee walking horse trainer Larry Wheelon of Maryville has issued a statement denying abuse of horses at his facility. Wheelon was charged with one count of animal cruelty and 19 horses were seized from his farm. "I would like to first state that I am innocent on the charges alleged against me," Wheelon said. "These are serious allegations that carry serious consequences and I look forward to the opportunity to have my story known and my name cleared of these allegations...

East Tenn. horse trainer faces abuse charges (04/26/13)
A horse trainer from Maryville has been charged with felony animal cruelty after 19 horses were removed from his barn Thursday. The Blount County sheriff's office assisted the U.S. Department of Agriculture in serving a search warrant to Larry Wheelon, 68, last week after receiving a tip about possible animal cruelty, reported The Daily Times of Maryville...

Tracy, Marsh back livestock abuse bill (04/19/13)
Both of Bedford County's state legislators voted for a bill to require anyone recording or taking photos of livestock abuse to turn images over to law enforcement within 48 hours. The bill was approved in the House on Wednesday with 50 votes -- the bare minimum needed to clear the chamber. The Senate version passed 22-9 on Tuesday...

Close encounters: MTEC class lets students experience walking horses (04/18/13)
Students from Middle Tennessee Education Center visited the grounds of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration Wednesday and had a chance to meet Shelbyville's signature horse up close and personal. The trip was part of Dr. Warren Gill's "Agriculture in Our Lives" annual curriculum. The class is now offered at MTEC in Shelbyville, a satellite campus of Middle Tennessee State University...

Little horses leave a big impression (04/16/13)
These horses may be small, but they put on a big show. The Tennessee Miniature Horse Celebration 2013 ASPC, ASPR, AMHR & Open Hackney Horse Show was held Friday through Sunday at Calsonic Arena. Tennessee Miniature Horse Volunteers organized the show, which is accredited and conducted under the 2013 rules of the American Shetland Pony/American Miniature Horse Registry...

Local man, local mule are parade winners (04/12/13)
Buddy Pope of Shelbyville and his mule Kate placed second in the Mule Day Parade in Columbia in 2011, and were runners-up again in 2012. This year? "I won a ribbon in every class I showed in," said Pope, "and I won the parade."...

Walking horses speed into hearts of spectators (04/10/13)
PULASKI -- The unmistakable rhythm of horses' hooves on a sod track was music to the ears of a crowd of about 200 horse enthusiasts at the Milky Way Farm Equestrian Challenge Sunday. The event, sponsored by the Walking Horse Racing and Event Commission, was held at the historic Milky Way Farm, home of candy legend Frank Mars. The race track, built in 1932, was designed by Mars and is where many champion thoroughbreds were trained, including the 1940 Kentucky Derby Winner, Gallahadion...

Serious walk: Singer/horse trainer uses talents to help in fight against cancer (04/05/13)
Alena Nicholson is a busy woman, but give her a chance to help fight cancer and she'll clear her schedule in a minute. She'll be performing for 30 minutes prior to the start of the Walking for Cancer Horse Show, to take place April 13 at the Bedford County Ag Center. The horse show, which kicks off at 5 p.m., benefits the Bedford County Cancer Foundation...

Proposals restrict abuse probes (03/19/13)
SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- An undercover video that showed California cows struggling to stand as they were prodded to slaughter by forklifts led to the largest meat recall in U.S. history. In Vermont, a video of veal calves skinned alive and tossed like sacks of potatoes ended with the plant's closure and criminal convictions...

A Bruce Pearl wins Trainers Show stake class (03/19/13)
Jimmy McConnell rode A Bruce Pearl, owned by Mike and Lee McGartland, to the blue in the Trainers' Show stake class Saturday night. The show, held at the Calsonic Arena, drew more than 500 entries -- making the show the largest it has been in the past five years. (Photo courtesy Walking Horse Report)

Cowboys face obstacles in new event (03/14/13)
The Celebration Grounds will host horses of a much swifter breed in May as Craig Cameron's Extreme Cowboy Race comes to town. The event is set for May 24 & 25 on the Celebration Grounds and is sponsored by the Southern Obstacle Challenge Association...

Cancer Foundation gears up for spring horse show (03/10/13)
The Annual Walking for Cancer Horse Show will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2013 at the Bedford County Ag Center on Midland Road, Shelbyville. The show begins at 5:00 PM and admission is $5 with children under 6 being admitted free. There will be fun for everyone; good food, merchandise vendors and the greatest breed of horse, the beautiful Tennessee Walking Horse. Music for the show and for entertainment will be provided by noted organist Chase Williams...

TWHBEA offers incentives to help in tough times (03/08/13)
The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' And Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA) has announced three new incentives for horse owners and enthusiasts. The group said the incentives were in response to the tough economic times and the various issues effecting prices in the horse industry specifically...

Walking horse group to hold national show at arena (03/07/13)
Horses will fill Calsonic Arena this fall when the National Walking Horse Association (NWHA) holds its championship show in Shelbyville. The group recently voted to bring the show to Shelbyville Sept. 23 - 28, and will be introducing new divisions to the event this year - All Day Pleasure and Park Lite Shod. Country Pleasure division rules have also been revised for 2013, according to an announcement on the NWHA website...

Division added to 2013 Celebration (03/03/13)
An amateur five-year-old division is to be added to the 75th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, the organization has announced. To honor the inaugural year of the division with the ultimate crowning of a new World Grand Champion, the Celebration will be sending medallions honoring the winners at every show throughout the year...

Feathered horses will return in April (02/27/13)
Calsonic Arena will host the Fifth Annual Feathered Horse Spring Classic in April, it has been announced. The event, which will be free and open to the public, is scheduled for April 19-21. Gypsy and Friesian horses from across the nation will compete...

WHTA backs single HIO (02/21/13)
The Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA) voted unanimously Monday to support a single Horse Industry Organization (HIO). A general membership meeting was held at the WHTA's headquarters in Shelbyville, which included guests from the four predominant HIOs - Heart of America, Kentucky, PRIDE and SHOW, who inspect performance horses, as well as the Tennessee Walking Show Horse Organization (TWSHO)...

Alena Nicholson: Living two dreams (02/17/13)
Alena Nicholson has tremendous passion for two things -- horses and music. She barely has time to breathe as she travels back and forth between her horses at Canter Farms in Bedford County to a budding country music career in Nashville. Alena's love for horses began early...

Celebration seeks trash removal help (02/07/13)
The Celebration is again asking for help with their waste collection from the City of Shelbyville in a continuing effort to cut costs. But some officials are worried that doing so would "open a door" for businesses to make the same request, while others want to help the Celebration in any way possible...

Florida horse show goes on; WHTA will manage (01/31/13)
A week after it was announced that a Florida horse show sponsored by the Celebration had been called off, the Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA) is picking up the reins. The WHTA and Gulf Coast Charity Celebration Association, Inc. announced Wednesday that the 2013 Gulf Coast Charity Horse Show will be held April 25-27 in Panama City Beach, Fla., after all...

Celebration cancels Florida horse show (01/23/13)
A Florida horse show sponsored by the Celebration has been cancelled for this year, but organizers are hoping for the event to continue in 2014. The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC) announced that the 2013 Gulf Coast Charity Celebration, traditionally held in Panama City Beach, Fla., will not take place this year...

$5K to trainers, council decides (01/11/13)
Shelbyville's city council approved giving $5,000 to the Walking Horse Trainers' Association for an upcoming show, and is asking the county to chip in as well. The group's 45th anniversary show is scheduled March 14-16 at Calsonic Arena, and the council was asked last week for $10,000 to help sponsor the event...

Trainers' Association requests city donation for horse show (01/06/13)
Shelbyville's city council was asked for $10,000 for a horse show slated for March, but a tight budget could limit whatever contribution the city chooses to make. Mickey McCormick, the new president of the Walking Horse Trainers' Association, told the council that the group's 45th anniversary show has been scheduled to be held at Calsonic Arena March 14-16...

Help available for Alzheimer's patients (11/15/12)
Caregiver Relief of Bedford County offered free memory screenings this week, in conjunction with the Alzheimer's Foundation of America. In a session held at Bedford Drug on North Main Street, several local residents were briefed on the early signs of the disease and completed a series of questions and tasks designed to test memory, language skills, thinking ability and other intellectual functions...

For the love of horses (and Benji): Filmmaker finds new home in Bedford County (10/24/12)
In the early 1970s, Joe Camp had a great idea for a movie, built around a unique central character. The Hollywood studios, however, didn't see it that way, and all of them rejected the project. The head of distribution for Universal Studios said he liked the movie but didn't think he could convince others to do the work that would be required to sell it. He suggested that Camp distribute the movie himself...

A perfect time to hit the trail: Strolling Jim ride is Saturday (10/11/12)
Ray Pimental promises that if you come to ride Saturday, it will be, "The most fun you've had all year." Fall officially began on Sept. 22, and trees are beginning to change color as cooler weather arrives. It's a perfect time to take part in the Strolling Jim Memorial Trail Ride, now in its 15th year...

New equestrian event comes to middle Tennessee (10/07/12)
James and Jackie Hale saw a need and answered it. Owners of a successful Saddlebred training facility and consignment sales operation, the couple decided to take action when the Tattersalls sales pavilion in Lexington, Ky., closed last year. It's safe to say that the Hales have been to a sale or two, know how to utilize new technologies, and can tell a good horse when they see one. Still, establishing a new sale would be a risk...

McConnell receives probation (09/19/12)
CHATTANOOGA -- A former trainer received three years' probation and a $75,000 fine Tuesday for soring Tennessee walking horses. "So this is the man I've been reading so much about," U.S. District Judge Harry S. Mattice said as Jackie McConnell, 62, stood before him...

Groups react to McConnell sentencing (09/19/12)
CHATTANOOGA -- "This 'big lick" has got to go!" Those were the words of the senator who wrote the Horse Protection Act (HPA) 42 years ago. Following the sentencing hearing of Jackie McConnell, Keith Dane of the Humane Society of the United States and former senator Joseph Tydings urged lawmakers to pass an amended HPA that would make soring a felony...

Walking horse trainer, stablehands to be sentenced (09/18/12)
CHATTANOOGA (AP) - A walking horse trainer and two stablehands who were caught abusing horses in an undercover video are to be sentenced today in federal court in Chattanooga. Prosecutors have recommended five years' probation for Jackie McConnell, whose Whitter Stables in Collierville was the subject of the video. It shows McConnell and others applying caustic substances to horses' legs and hooves and beating the horses to make them stand...

TWSHO responds to more 'misguided' attacks (09/14/12)
Tennessee Walking Show Horse Organization (TWSHO) Thursday issued the following statement from communications director Jeffrey Howard in response to proposed legislation to amend the Horse Protection Act (HPA): "TWSHO is in strong agreement that reform is needed in the industry and we will work with anyone who truly wants reform...

Cohen introduces bill to ban soring of horses (09/14/12)
WASHINGTON (AP) -- Saying he was taking an opportunity to "look out for our four-legged friends," U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen co-sponsored a bill Thursday that would make injuring a Tennessee Walking Horse to exaggerate its gait a felony. The Memphis Democrat joined Kentucky Republican Ed Whitfield in introducing amendments to the 1970 Horse Protection Act that also tighten the definition of soring, the practice of putting irritating chemicals or chains on a horse's front ankles to make it step higher in a gait known as "the Big Lick.". ...

Beautiful Horse Show sky (09/05/12)
Melonie and Micah Lynn Schmiede enjoying the Horse Show with a beautiful backdrop.

Saturday, Sept. 1, Celebration results (09/04/12)
1) RATTLE AND SNAP, Ashtyn Claire Brown / Carla Brown, Ashtyn Claire Brown; 2) RASCAL FLATTS, Grace Wilhelm / Kristen Wilhelm, Byrom & Wilhelm; 3) TEXAS PETE, Julia Paige Callaway / Jada Callaway, Julia Paige Callaway; 4) JAZZ CAT, Raelyn Wainwright / Kasie Caldwell, Raelyn Wainwright; 5) WOODY YES HE WOOD, DaKoda Gardner / Misti Gardner, DaKoda & Cheyanne Gardner; 6) SHAKE'S LITTLE MIDNIGHT, Breanna Lovvorn / Christen Lovvorn, Charles & Joy Gleghorn; 7) ALI CAT H, Laci Matthews / Tiffany Hartwig, Bella Hartwig; 8) PRINCESS, Riley Sims / Lynn Womack, Riley Sims; 9) AMERICA'S NEXT TOP MODEL, Peyton Nelms / Amanda Nelms, Peyton & Riley Nelms; 10) I'M CHARLIE BROWN, BiBi Beasley / Russ Thompson, Beth Beasley. ...

Honors takes 4-year-old WGC (08/31/12)
Friday's penultimate performance at the 74th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration began with a rainbow, visible looking southeast from the stadium just before the show started, and Honors, Larry Edwards up, found the pot of gold at the end of that rainbow, winning the Four-Year-Old World Grand Championship to close out the evening. The entry is owned by Dan, Keith & Kelly McSwain of Gainesville and Duluth, Ga...

Walking horse supporters defend against HSUS claims (08/31/12)
Friday morning, both the Humane Society of the United States and the Tennessee Walking Show Horse Organization held press conferences in Murfreesboro aiming to rein in the public's perception of the walking horse industry. While both groups assert that they have the best interest of the walking horse in mind, their stances differ...

Going for blue: Contenders look towards World Grand Championship (08/31/12)
World Champions and World Grand Champions are crowned every year at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. But the focus usually is on the winner of the Tennessee Walking Horse World Grand Championship, the finale of the show. Saturday night the 74th World Grand Champion will take its place in history. Listed in no particular order are the expected top seven contenders for the crown...

Turnin,' burnin' and winnin' (08/31/12)
Three barrels, two hearts and one soul is a popular saying with barrel racers. Sydney Ely of Chestnut Ridge and her mare, Smokies DD Gold Lady -- or "DeeDee," for short -- have a true understanding of this intertwined soul. They've worked hard to develop this trust...

Thursday night Celebration results (08/31/12)
Thursday, Aug. 30, Celebration results OWNER AMATEUR YOUTH 6-17 PARK PLEASURE MARES/GELDINGS WORLD GRAND CHAMPIONSHIP 1) B B KINGS JAZZ, Jackson Stephens, Stephens/Womack; 2) SANTANAS COIN, Lindsey Landrum, Landrum/McNeely/Cortner; 3) FOG AT THE RITZ, Abbey Fleming, Jim Upchurch...

Jose It Ain't So and Jonathan Watts excite crowd (08/31/12)
It's Championship Thursday in Shelbyville! For five days and seven nights, everyone has enjoyed the preliminary action, but it's finally time for the real competition to begin as all of the teams showing tonight will be riding for the roses and the title of 2012 World Grand Champion. Twelve classes of championship action made up the Thursday evening schedule, highlighted by the final class, the Three-Year-Old World Grand Championship...

Attempt made to obtain motel guests' info (08/30/12)
Several visitors staying at Best Western Celebration Inn, Madison Street, were asked to disclose personal information by someone claiming to be an employee Wednesday, police said. Multiple guest told the front desk clerk they had received calls from a man asking them to bring their credit cards for a 30 percent room discount. He did not ask for their card numbers...

Preliminary classes wrap up (08/30/12)
It's Wednesday night . . .the final night of preliminary competition of the 74th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Starting tomorrow night, the spotlight comes on and the riding for the roses begins. There's still a great night of competition ahead tonight and if the rain will stay away, it will be one great night for a horse show!...

Fighting back: Some USDA inspectors unfair, say industry reps (08/29/12)
Celebration officials have gone on the offensive this week as they claim some U.S. Department of Agriculture officials are inspecting horses unfairly at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Dr. Doyle Meadows, Celebration CEO, says he feels the USDA has retaliated against the horse show after walking horse industry leaders went above their heads in an effort to ensure a successful event...

Sentencing rescheduled in soring case (08/29/12)
Sentencing for the remaining defendants in a widely publicized horse soring case has been reset for later in September despite objections from federal prosecutors. U.S. District Judge Harry S. Mattice Jr. has continued sentencing for Jackie L. McConnell, 60, Jeff Dockery, 54, and Joseph R. Abernathy, 30 until Sept. 18 at 2 p.m. EDT at the federal courthouse in Chattanooga...

Scar rule: It's all about interpretation (08/29/12)
If you think a pastern is where horses graze, you probably don't quite understand the "scar rule" portion of the Horse Protection Act. And you're not alone. We'll start with a layman's explanation of the pastern, the area of concentration. The pastern is the area of a horse's legs between the ankle (fetlock) and the hoof. It is made of two bones -- the smaller of which is the closest to the hoof, and the portion in question...

Tuesday night Celebration results (08/29/12)
THE MOLLY WALTERS FAMILY FOUR YEAR OLD MARES (CANTER)/WHTA 2012 RIDERS CUP 1) POWERSTROKES EVENING STAR, Herbert Derickson, Ingraham/McGee; 2) THE SKY QUEEN, Casey Wright, Bob/Jamie Gullic; 3) JOSE GUN POWDER AND LEAD, John Allan Callaway, Tommy Jowers Family; 4) SAPPHIRE GIN, Brock Tillman, Dru McCormick; 5) STRONG AS A DOLLAR, Rodney Dick, Larry Markum; 6) TRUE PLATINUM, Tim Smith, M/M Eric Lackey; 7) YANKEE GIRL, Michael Wright, Dr Les McGowan; 8) SWEETHEART OF JOSE, Brad Beard, M/M Charles Brantley. ...

Stable decorating contest held (08/29/12)
The Celebration, along with the Shelbyville-Bedford County Chamber of Commerce, held its 19th annual stable decorating contest Sunday. Stable decorating wasn't always an official event, but one that evolved from informal competitions when owners would dress up their areas for the 11 days of the Celebration. According to Celebration secretary Connie Allen, it eventually became an official competition...

Luttrell has two Tuesday night wins (08/29/12)
We've come to Tuesday of the 74th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. This is the next to the last night of preliminary competition, as the championships get underway on Thursday night. The 11 classes of competition on the evening schedule certainly should provide an entertaining evening, if the rain clouds that showed up earlier this afternoon will go ahead and pass...

Celebration activities (08/28/12)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has announced that the entry fee for the World Grand Championship class will be refunded in full if the entry does not show for any reason. The $2,500 entry fee is due by Friday at noon. The 74th Annual Celebration culminates with the crowning of the World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse on Saturday in class 177. The refundable entry fee is not a new policy as the Celebration has instituted the same in 2009, 2012 and 2011...

Monday Celebration results (08/28/12)
FLAT SHOD PLEASURE DRIVING 1) OVERPASS, Patti Pollack, Pollacks Silver Spur Ranch; 2) JOSES BABY DOLL, Jeff Laughlin, Doris Penick; 3) SCORES HEARTBREAKER, Kathy Owen, Kathy Owen/Double Springs Farm; 4) STARRY EYES, Shelli MeHaffey, Sally Reiley; 5) ARIANA, Dr Linda Jones, Jones/Lane; 6) TRIGGER ON THE PROWL, Jeff Givens, JoAnn Dowell; 7) MY PRIVATE EYE, Ann Marie Couch, Royce/Ann Marie Couch; 8) CEO OF THE RITZ, Jody Brannon, Brooke Daly/Jody Brannon. ...

Keep Your Cash, Nine Gold, I'm Bob Marley top 2-year-olds on Monday (08/28/12)
It's Monday night, the halfway point of the 74th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. After tonight's events, there will only be two more preliminary sessions prior to Championship competition getting underway on Thursday night. In fact, two World Grand Champions have already been crowned. ...

Sunday evening Celebration results (08/27/12)
OWNER AMATEUR YOUTH 12-14 MARES/GELDINGS 1) BE COOL, Jaclyn Compton, Rick/Della Compton Family; 2) JOSE CALIENTE, Chris Elliott, Chris Elliott; 3) STEMWINDER, Koston McWaters, LaRue McWaters; 4) MISS MIDNIGHT RIDER, Maria Perry, Bullington/Perry; 5) TOO TALL JONES, Jesse Laughlin, 4J Land & Cattle Co; 6) FOURTH QUARTER MIRACLE, Jacob Miller, Jacob Miller; 7) BLACK MARKET PUSHER, Nathan Britt, RPC Farms; 8) CAROLINA CONFEDERATE, Isaac McGee, Laura McGee; 9) HES OUR DURAMAX, Thomas Derickson, Thomas Derickson; 10) GENERALS TOP BRASS, Ashley Raby, Sheila Raby. ...

Saturday Celebration results (08/27/12)
AUXILIARY EQUITATION MEDAL 11 & UNDER 1) CLAIRE HANKINS; 2) KEELY MORROW; 3) ALLIE AVENT; 4) KATHLEEN BURROUGHS; 5) LUKE KELLER OWNER AMATEUR YOUTH 6-17 WESTERN COUNTRY PLEASURE 1) BUSTLINE, Mackenzie Morgan, Benjamin/Morgan; 2) COWBOY ON PAROLE, Payton Davis, Jack/Wilsene Moody Kwok/Payton Davis; 3) THE GHOST WALKER, Katie Gerber, Brown/Irby/Gerber; 4) JOSES HANNAH MONTANA, Ashley Gray, Kesselring/Gray; 5) GI GIS HALBERD, Logan Hankins, Logan Hankins; 6) EL TECATE, Allison Thorson, Allison Thorson; 7) DELIGHT SILVER DESIGN, Jackson Stephens, Van Stephens Family; 8) HALLELUJAH IN THE SKY, Tyler Diamond Pollack, Pollacks Silver Spur Ranch; 9) A ROYAL ATTRACTION, Kaitlyn Rippy, Nick/Kaitlyn Rippy; 10) SWEET DIXIE NIGHT, Keeley Carr, Smith/Carr. ...

Governor visits Celebration Sunday night (08/26/12)
Gov. Bill Haslam visited the Celebration on Sunday night and was honored at center ring. State Rep. Pat Marsh and Celebration CEO Dr. Doyle Meadows presented the governor with a tri-colored ribbon. Ring announcer Bobby Sands, in announcing the presentation, indicated that Haslam had helped the walking horse industry by passing along some of its concerns to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack...

Irreplaceable 'Baby': Family saves life of dying colt (08/26/12)
A fan of the T-G's reader-submitted photo pages shared a story last week fit for any person fond of a horse. Teresa Cozart of Wheel had been thinking of submitting a particular photo for some time. "I track the reader submitted photos on the T-G website all the time, and I thought, 'You know what, I am going to submit a photo,'" said Teresa. "People love this photo. Every time anyone walks by my desk at work they comment on it so I figured why not share it."...

Memories of the 'Wireman' live on (08/26/12)
The Celebration brings with it a certain frame of mind. For long-time residents, it provides a unique marker in your calendar each year. Whether you remember being at the show each night as a kid or you're taking your kids on vacation, it's hard to not be a little nostalgic about things come this time of year...

I'm Copperfield, Walk Time Charlie win stallion class (08/25/12)
I'm Copperfield won the A division, and Walk Time Charlie won the B division of Stallions, Five Years and Over, over 15.2 (Canter) at Saturday evening's performance of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Each horse was the unanimous choice of all five judges in its division...

All the pretty horses... (08/25/12)
It used to be when a walking horse took home the floral horse shoe, the flowers were draped over a solid black animal. On rare occasions, a chestnut or a bay walked on with the win, but those three choices were about it. These days, even though the blacks, dark bays, chestnuts and sorrels still dominate, more attention is being given to a horse of a different color. ...

Be safe while riding in the arena (08/25/12)
Riding in an arena may be your only option during bad weather, or it's a convenient place to school your horse with a minimum of distractions, according to Katherine Blocksdorf for About.com. In any case, do your part to make riding with others fun and safe...

Some ponytails need little help (08/25/12)
In case you've ever wondered, 90 percent of the tails are real on all walking horses. But there's no denying that some horses need some help with their ponytails for the show ring. For horses it can be a necessity in how striking they look. Extensions create a full effect in horses, just as they do for women...

Learn the lingo: Class names explained (08/25/12)
Ever wonder what the different names of the different Celebration classes mean? How is an Open class different from an Amateur class? What does "Specialty" mean? Or Classic? Here are some definitions that may help. Amateur Class: Each rider, driver, or handler must be an amateur. ...

Origins of the Tennessee walking horse (08/25/12)
You might call the Tennessee walking horse the melting pot of the east -- it seems like every early breed established east of the Mississippi contributed to its genetic makeup somewhere. Here are some of the breeds that have contributed to the Tennessee walker gene pool, create a truly American horse...

Come in, you're welcome (08/25/12)
Walking horse trainers, owners and exhibitors call the Celebration the greatest horse show on Earth. But just because visitors are more than welcome to attend the show and cheer on their favorites doesn't mean it's OK -- or safe -- for folks visiting the horse show to make themselves at home in the barn area...

Familiar sights, sounds at Celebration (08/24/12)
The evening performances of the 74th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration began Thursday night, as Bud Seaton rode flag horse Counterfeit Dollar over to the east side of the big arena....

Students see the show (08/24/12)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration is recognizing local schools during the 10-day show this year, after giving more than 16,000 tickets to local students. Each student in Bedford County has received a pair of tickets for one night of the show. City elementary schools will be tonight's guests, with Eakin, East Side and Southside schools being recognized as their school logos are flashed on the Jumbotron, and Bobby Sands will share information about each school...

Thursday night Celebration results (08/24/12)
OWNER AMATEUR MARES YOUTH RIDERS 6-11 1) JOSES DELIGHTFUL PUSHER, Landon Callicutt, John Callicutt; 2) WALK ON COMMAND, Jessica LAwell, Roger/Barbara Jenkins; 3) IM UGLY BETTY, Counti Green, Counti Green; 4) SHOWBOATS HEARTSTOPPER, Dylan Young, Lisa Patton Evans; 5) SHES ARMED WITH POISON, William Derickson, Thomas Derickson; 6) HELLO CUTIE, Maggie Kail, Jada Kail; 7) SHES A SILVER LADY, Macey Krauth, Krauth Family; 8) JAZZY SALLY, Zachary Swafford, Zachary Swafford. ...

Thursday morning Celebration results (08/23/12)
MODEL PLEASURE STALLIONS 1) MAXXIMIZE, Jeff Givens, JoAnn Dowell; 2) IM JACK DANIELS, Rollie Beard, J. W. Beard; 3) JAZZMANS LEGEND, Dr Judy Moore, Moore/Foust Farm; 4) HURRICANE DICKIE, Jennifer Broadhurst, Jennifer Broadhurst; 5) GENERATORS TROUBADOUR, Beverly Lamp, Keith/Cheryl Waid; 6) THE PRESTIGE, Robert Nelms, Rushing Creek Walkers; 7) ARMED WITH INTENT, Ronnie Rushing, Rushing Creek Walkers...

Wednesday morning Celebration recap (08/23/12)
As the unseasonably cool breeze blew through Calsonic Arena, the vendors were anxiously setting up and the officials were working in center ring, all signs that the first session of the 74th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration was about to get underway. ...

Down-home images (08/23/12)
It's a homecoming of sorts at the Celebration for Dee Foster. Foster now calls Texas home, but each year she enjoys a trip back to her hometown of Shelbyville to sell her signature screen printed shirts at the Celebration Trade Fair. Foster is the owner of Gator Prints, and she'll gladly give you the run-down on how she and her carousel of presses transfer image to screen and ink to shirt...

Wednesday morning Celebration results (08/23/12)
MODEL PLEASURE MARES 1) ARMED VOO PROMISES, Lynn Womack, James King, 2) IM A COPPERTONE GIRL, Robert Nelms, Rushing Creek Walkers, 3) WHIMSICAL JAZZ, Russel Keyser, Denise Bader/Russell Keyser, 4) SCORES DIAMOND GIRL, Beverly Lamp, Maple Crest Farms, 5) ITS MY MOMENT, Jeff Givens, JoAnn Dowell, 6) A RED RUBY, Laurie Toone, Gassaway/Toone, 7) KINGS JAZZ DANCER, Rollie Beard, Mona McMillian, 8) RUBY DIAMOND RITZ, Rayna Latham, Skierkowski/Jones, 9) GETTING EVEN, Maggie Mae White, Maggie Mae/Jon/Sherry White, 10) INTO THE NEXT GENERATION, Jennifer Broadhurst, Jennifer Broadhurst. ...

DesJarlais concerned with USDA (08/22/12)
U.S. Rep. Scott DesJarlais has written U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack with concerns about Horse Protection Act enforcement which he said "cause great uncertainty for the industry and this coming 'Celebration.'" DesJarlais, a member of the House Agriculture Committee and its subcommittee on livestock, dairy and poultry, has asked to meet with Vilsack and his staff to discuss the issues...

Steppin' Into Cash sponsors to give away $10,000 (08/22/12)
Each night at the Celebration, one attendee will have their own victory dance to do. At 8:30 p.m. in center ring, there will be a drawing in which participants can win from $500 to $3,000 per night. "This promotion is being funded by local individuals, financial institutions and businesses," said Donna Stone, promotional chairperson and Celebration Association member. ...

Celebration to quicken test results (08/21/12)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration is changing procedures that are used to detect signs of soring. The show's board of directors on Monday announced in a news release that for the first time, it will make the results of chemical tests public and it will result in trainers immediately losing their trophies and prize money if caught abusing horses...

'Excitement' builds for Smith at show (08/21/12)
T-G: How did you get started in your role there at the Celebration? How long have you been doing it?... Smith: This is my fourth summer at the Celebration. My cousin heard about the opening and called me because she thought it would be a good fit with my school schedule.

Celebration class schedule (08/21/12)
(Morning performances will be inside Calsonic Arena) 1 Model Pleasure Walking Mares 2 *Plantation Pleasure Walking Horses 3 Owner-Amateur Riders on Two-Year-Old Trail Pleasure Walking Horses, Optional Tack 4 Amateur Owned and Trained Lite Shod Walking Horses...

Just say Whoa! TWH stars in positive behavior campaign (08/19/12)
Ranger Tennessee Walker has arrived in Shelbyville, and he has a message for children and teens: "Just say Whoa." Last fall the Bedford County Sheriff's office acquired a Tennessee Walking Horse for their mounted patrol unit. Renamed Ranger, the horse is striking in appearance with a grey coat and a blue right eye...

Town-wide sale (08/17/12)
While the Celebration kicks off next week, bringing in visitors from all over the country, another popular event will be taking place nearby. Next Friday and Saturday, Aug. 24-25, Wartrace will hold its 17th annual town-wide yard sale. The event, sponsored by the Wartrace Chamber of Commerce and the Town of Wartrace, has evolved into more than just a yard sale, taking on a festival-like atmosphere that now attracts thousands of visitors for two days to the community known for Tennessee Walking Horses, handmade guitars and long freight trains.. ...

A legacy lives on through Walking Horse Classic (08/15/12)
Delaine Freeman Smith was honored when the Wilson County Fair Board approached her with a request following her mother's death in 2007. "They came to us the year Moma passed away and said they wanted to name the Walking Horse show in her memory," Smith said, adding that she believes that the Betty B. Freeman Walking Horse Classic was appropriately named...

Dogs, ponies to prance at show (08/10/12)
A bit of sibling rivalry between pups caused Tango's injury, but organizers of this year's Dog and Pony Show at Clearview Farms hope to pair the hound with a loving family who can overlook the scars in his life. He was one of a litter of four pups that came to Bedford County Animal Control in early September. A puppy scuffle as the litter was caged together resulted in an injury to Tango's head, causing scars which are still visible...

Incoming Celebration CEO hits the ground running (08/09/12)
On his first day on the job, Mike Inman jumped in with both feet running. He knows he's got work to do. Inman's transition into his role as CEO of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration began last week; and during his first day on the job -- before settling into his office, setting up a new email, getting business cards or doing anything else you might normally do on your first day on the job -- Inman began working toward a very clear goal he has set for himself...

It's time to Celebrate the Celebration (08/09/12)
Let's Celebrate. We are only a couple of weeks away from the 74th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration calling of the final class. Can you imagine what it was like in 1939 to experience the first class at the inaugural Celebration? My father-in-law W. ...

Ribbons of support (08/08/12)
The Celebration is giving away ribbons for businesses to display in support of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. The ribbons, which are red, white and blue, are free, and may be picked up at the Celebration office...

Soring case defendant told to write article (08/07/12)
One of the defendants in a widely publicized horse soring case will have to write an article about the practice, a federal judge has ordered. John Mays, 50, pleaded guilty Monday to a single count of conspiracy to violate the Horse Protection Act (HPA) and was sentenced to time served -- four months, a special assessment of $25 and instructions from U.S. District Judge Harry S. Mattice to write an article about horse soring for the "community service" portion of his sentence...

City to help briefly with Celebration trash (08/05/12)
Shelbyville will be providing waste collection services for the Celebration later this month, but only for a short time. The council already had a discussion during last month's study session about the possibility of the city providing garbage services for the annual event, but city manager Jay Johnson and public works director Mark Clanton had informed Celebration officials that due to the short time frame before the event, the decision was made to pursue the services this year...

TWHNC suspends TWHBEA president (08/02/12)
The Celebration's board of directors has suspended Marty Irby, president of the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association, from all activities related to The Celebration for at least one year. The suspension is in response to a dispute over website domain names that were bought in the name of TWHBEA -- the organization that controls the breed's registry...

SHOW responds to USDA action (08/02/12)
SHOW, the Horse Industry Organization connected with the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, responded Wednesday to last Friday's action by the USDA taking the first step to decertify SHOW inspectors. HIOs inspect horses for soring at shows...

'You are the Celebration' (08/02/12)
We have several people in our community that are working extremely hard to involve our entire community in a more positive manner in bringing back "Civic Pride" to the Celebration. Last week, several members of the Board of Directors of the Celebration and I met with the Celebration Association to discuss ways to reunite members of our community to return or experience for the first time the pageantry of the Celebration...

SHOW misses rule change deadline (08/01/12)
Three Tennessee walking horse groups -- including SHOW, Inc., the horse industry organization (HIO) affiliated with the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration -- have missed a deadline for adopting tougher inspection rules. The groups could lose their certification from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, which allows them to inspect for violations of the Horse Protection Act...

'Cradle' gets ready to rock (08/01/12)
This will be a big weekend for the little town which calls itself the "Cradle of the Tennessee Walking Horse," as the relocated Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum opens on Friday and the 106th annual Wartrace Horse Show takes place on Saturday...

Local civic clubs work to back Celebration (08/01/12)
David Brown, Vice President of the Shelbyville Rotary Club and Katie Guthrie, Region III Chair of the Shelbyville Lions Club, met with Dr. Doyle Meadows, CEO of The Celebration and Connie Allen, Executive Assistant at The Celebration to discuss ways local civic clubs could help show their support for The Celebration...

Horse show to give away $10,000 (07/26/12)
As the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration draws nearer, horse show officials have announced they plan to give away $10,000 in cash during nightly drawings throughout the show. Each night in center ring at 8:30 p.m. there will be a drawing in which participants can win from $500 to $3,000 per night...

New judges chosen for Celebration (07/19/12)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has selected the judging panel for the 74th Annual Celebration, to be held Aug. 22-Sept. 1. Jennifer Bingham, Chris Bobo, Nathan Clark, Brent Grider and Joel Weaver will adjudicate the performance horse classes during the show. Connie Waldo and Carol Smithson will join Bingham, Bobo and Clark to adjudicate the pleasure classes...

Horse trial canceled; judge to hear both sides of issue (07/17/12)
A trial over the constitutionality of a U.S. Department of Agriculture rule change affecting the Tennessee walking horse industry was canceled before it could take place Monday, with both sides to present their evidence over the issue instead. Last month, the Shelbyville-based SHOW Horse Industry Organization (HIO) filed a lawsuit, asking for a restraining order over new rules which instruct the walking horse industry to oversee enforcement of anti-abuse penalties...

Hugs, tears for a winner (07/13/12)
Giving his donkey a hug is Richard Fleener as he was brought to tears after his miniature donkey Topper was judged best of breed during the 21st annual Great Celebration Mule and Donkey Show at the Celebration grounds. His wife, Katrina, showed the donkey....

SHOW injunction denied; trial is set (07/12/12)
A trial over the constitutionality of a USDA rule change ordering the walking horse industry to oversee enforcement of anti-abuse penalties will go on as scheduled, a federal judge ruled Monday. U.S. District Judge Terry R. Means denied a motion for a temporary restraining order requested last month by the Shelbyville-based SHOW Horse Industry Organization...

Thanks, Board, for a job well done (07/12/12)
The 74th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration is just a little over a month away. I am proud to be associated with an event that literally identifies our community. The Walking Horse Industry and The Celebration set us apart from communities with similar size and population...

Horse industry seeks support of local businesses (07/11/12)
Shelbyville's Walking Horse Trainers Association (WHTA) visited local businesses Tuesday, asking for their support of the local horse industry. The organization declared the day, July 10, as Bedford County Support Day. "The Tennessee Walking Horse industry has always been a positive influence on the economy of Shelbyville and Bedford County. ...

Mules & more on display this week (07/10/12)
Stubborn as a mule? It may be a well-known saying, but trainer Anita Gravener doesn't think it's a true description. "I don't think they're stubborn," said Gravener, a quarter horse trainer by trade who started training mules last year as a favor to a friend. "They're actually very smart."...

Riding in the rain (07/08/12)
Joe Lester climbs on I A Mysterio as Alex Lowe holds the reins at Friday night's Money Tree Classic horse show in Shelbyville. (T-G Photo by Mitchell Petty)

Riding in the rain (07/08/12)

Yee haw! Mules, donkeys step out (07/08/12)
The 21st annual Great Celebration Mule and Donkey Show will be held Thursday through Saturday at the Celebration grounds. Mules from more than 25 states are expected at the annual event. "Things are progressing very well," said Celebration CEO Dr. Doyle Meadows, who serves as show manager. The mule show is one of a handful of annual events actually organized and put on by the Celebration, as opposed to events which rent the facility...

Riding for Tony Rice (07/06/12)
This horse is reflected in the side of a trailer as it waits for its turn in the ring at the Tony Rice Center horse show Thursday night at Bedford County Agriculture Center. (T-G Photo by Jim Davis)

Celebration, events help local economy (07/05/12)
Hello, my friends, and welcome back to "Around the Grounds." The Celebration continues to contribute to the local economy through various events conducted on our grounds. The 2012 rodeo was the largest in years with standing room only, and the Moto-Cross was fantastic....

SHOW takes on USDA over penalty rule (06/26/12)
The Shelbyville-based SHOW Horse Industry Organization claims the U.S. Department of Agriculture's rule change placing the walking horse industry in charge of enforcing anti-abuse penalties is unconstitutional, according to a federal lawsuit filed Monday...

SHOW suspends trainer for violations (06/24/12)
Horse trainer Joe Cotten has been suspended and fined for alleged actions at the Liberty Lions Club horse show earlier this month, according to a press release issued Saturday by the SHOW Horse Industry Organization. Cotten's suspension, effective immediately, will last for 7 � years -- until Dec. 21, 2019 -- said SHOW President Dr. Stephen L. Mullins. He has also been fined $5,000...

Liberty Lions appreciate support (06/21/12)
The chairman of the Liberty Lions Club's annual horse show says he's grateful for the support given their annual horse show. "Our club raised over $9,000 profit from this one-night event." Paul D. Gambill said. "In the past, our club has tried other fundraisers, but nothing compares to our walking horse show to raise money for our club and community. We depend on this horse show for funds to meet the needs of the people in our area."...

Needy 'employee' doesn't work for horse trainer (06/12/12)
At least two people were contacted last week by someone falsely claiming to be an employee of a Bedford County horse trainer and asking for money. Dickie Gardner told the Bedford County Sheriff's Department on Friday his neighbors and friends were receiving calls from the "employee" saying his truck was broken down in Birmingham, Ala. with alternator problems and asking for $75...

Federal government stiffens soring penalties (06/06/12)
NASHVILLE (AP) -- The federal government will implement a new rule mandating stiffer penalties for horse soring and other related violations. According to The Tennessean, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's new rule will require organizations that inspect horses to assess minimum penalties to violators of the Horse Protection Act, including violations from soring Tennessee Walking Horses...

Letter to the Editor, May 31 (05/31/12)
To the editor: It may be an act of blasphemy, but I would like to admit that I have absolutely no interest in walking horses, or the Celebration. I grew up riding horses in the fields and woods of Antioch, and grew to love them. But the artificial, stilted, walking horse gait that is so popular around here does not interest me at all; it is unnatural, and is something that has to be trained into a horse's mind. ...

Nearly all Fun Show horses pass inspection (05/30/12)
Approximately 97 percent of horses passed inspection at the 42nd annual Spring Fun Show, one of the walking horse industry's season openers. The show was held last Thursday through Saturday at Calsonic Arena. Of 599 examinations, inspectors issued citations for 16 of them, said Dr. ...

New horse industry group forms (05/30/12)
A group of owners, trainers and breeders from across the industry established a $1 million funding goal Friday during the walking horse Fun Show to start a new group charged with promoting the breed and other goals. The new group is called the Tennessee Walking Show Horse Organization (TWSHO)...

Best feet foward: Horses inspected thoroughly at Fun Show (05/27/12)
It was only the first day of the Spring Fun Show, but the seats looked sparsely full. The Champions Arena adjacent to Calsonic Arena was a different story, however. Trainers, owners, media members and inspectors from SHOW and the USDA congested the warm-up ring, all looking for different things...

TWHNC backed, concern shown (05/24/12)
National media reports regarding the training practices of trainer Jackie McConnell have played a role in influencing local public perception of the Tennessee Walking Horse industry. This week the Times-Gazette has invited public comment from readers, called upon local business people and solicited information in an online poll. Here's what they have shared...

Celebration punishes McConnell (05/23/12)
The Celebration Board of Directors took decisive action Tuesday afternoon, condemning the actions of walking horse trainer Jackie McConnell, who pleaded guilty Tuesday to charges related to the conspiracy to violate the Horse Protection Act. The Celebration Board voted Tuesday to suspend McConnell for life from entering the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration Grounds for any and all events, regardless of the event's affiliation or ownership...

Spring Fun Show spotlights best of the breed (05/18/12)
The 42nd Annual Celebration Spring Fun Show will open a three-night run on Thursday, May 24 at Calsonic Arena in Shelbyville. As one of the most important spring shows in the Walking Horse industry, the Fun Show has served as a springboard toward the World Grand Championship for many of the top horses of the breed for years. The Fun Show also features 16 Rider's Cup classes for the professional trainer...

TWH industry reacts to video (05/17/12)
An ABC Nightline news investigation aired video Wednesday evening showing abuse inflicted by a legendary Tennessee walking horse trainer. Consequences of that video included Pepsi-Cola withdrawing from their select sponsorship of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration...

Giant steps...one at a time (05/13/12)
It's an unfortunate, but true realization. You'd be hard-pressed to find someone who hasn't been affected by cancer in some way. It's the great equalizer that can bring anyone to their knees. But, it also can show how strong a person is, and how great the community around them can rally when called upon...

McConnell changes plea in HPA case (05/11/12)
A Tennessee Walking Horse trainer charged with violations of the Horse Protection Act (HPA) announced Tuesday his intention to plead guilty to one of the charges. In a notice filed in federal court, Jackie L. McConnell, 60, stated he intends to plead guilty to a single count of conspiracy to violate the HPA...

Celebrating changes: New boxes in south turn (04/27/12)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration is renovating the upper tier of boxes on the south end of the outdoor arena, in a $500,000 project which CEO Doyle Meadows says will enhance safety and the fan experience. The lower level of boxes, at ringside, are built on concrete slabs and are in good shape, as are the general admission grandstands at the top of the south end. The renovation project focuses on the upper rows of boxes -- I, J, K and L -- on the south end...

Great Strides trains new volunteers (04/22/12)
Great Strides Therapeutic Riding Program held their yearly volunteer training session Monday afternoon at Bridlewood Farm. Certified Riding Instructors Reagan Aymett and Ann Burkhalter led the session. New volunteers were taught how to help groom, lead, and best assist riders participating in the program. ...

Down...but not out: Connie Bobo slowed but not stopped by disease (04/22/12)
With the busy lifestyles of today, it's easy to take things for granted. Each day we wake up, go about our business as best we can and hope for a few smiles along the way. For most folks, worrying about illness and infection is a seasonal thing that might reserve a place in the back of your mind. For those affected by primary immunodeficiency disorders (PIDD), however, this is a daily concern that cannot be taken lightly...

Feathered friends (04/15/12)
John Walker Carlisle is pictured in the foreground as Lauren McGuire sets up her booth in the background. Her business (along with her partner, Michelle Carlisle) Buckin' Jewels was one of several booths set up for visitors to a feathered horse show this weekend at Calsonic Arena. (T-G Photo by Jim Davis)

Celebration differs with T-G article (04/12/12)
The Celebration Board of Directors and staff take exception to the article in the March 6 edition entitled "Much Soring Alleged" by Brian Mosely. It is a one sided advertorial for the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) and Keith Dane causing serious harm to The Celebration and walking horse industry....

TWH leaders hit 'renegades' at listening session (04/05/12)
MURFREESBORO -- USDA officials urged Tennessee Walking Horse organizations Wednesday to unite and speak with one voice, while those in the local equine industry were equally united in opposing a proposed ban on pads and "action devices." Officials from the Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service's (APHIS) Animal Care Program held a three-hour listening session at the Doubletree Hotel to hear feedback from walking horse trainers and owners...

WHTA preparing a new initiative (03/29/12)
From a press release: The Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA) serves the best interest of its members and remains committed to protecting the welfare of the Tennessee Walking Horse. Since the passage of the Horse Protection Act and introduction of the Horse Industry Organization (HIO) program by the USDA, the WHTA has strongly supported inspections at affiliated shows...

McConnell out on bond; training limited (03/27/12)
Walking Horse trainer Jackie McConnell of Collierville will remain free on bond but will not be allowed to train any horses he doesn't own. McConnell and three associates have been charged with conspiracy to violate the Horse Protection Act by transporting and showing horses they knew to be "sored" and also falsifying entry forms and paperwork. Earlier this month, agents with the U.S. Department of Agriculture raided McConnell's Whitter Stables in west Tennessee, taking eight of 28 horses...

Report cites 'substances' (03/23/12)
Data released this week from the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) shows that every horse randomly sampled at last year's Celebration tested positive for illegal substances. A local industry veterinarian, however, said Thursday the substances revealed by the swab test samples (results of those tests were only recently published) are already deemed illegal under the Horse Protection Act...

Both sides matter, not just the loudest (03/18/12)
The comments received, for and not for publication, about alleged underfed horses in Bedford County -- and what those making the comments want us to say -- provide a good lesson for all about how journalism works. The case involves a woman and daughter who have been accused -- and that's a key word, accused -- by several concerned horse enthusiasts of allegedly purchasing horses and not feeding them properly. ...

May trial set for McConnell, co-defendants (03/18/12)
A May trial date has been set for a prominent walking horse trainer and three others accused in a horse soring conspiracy. Jackie McConnell, 60, along with Jeff Dockery, 56; John Mays, 47; and Joseph Abernathy, 29, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William B. Carter in Chattanooga for arraignment and to hear their conditions for bond...

Stronger horse penalties in works (03/16/12)
Changes are coming to how the USDA enforces the Horse Protection Act (HPA), with new rules concerning mandatory penalties in the Walking Horse industry and the process by which inspectors are licensed and trained. Specific information regarding the penalty changes are expected to be published next week, said Dr. Stephen Mullins, industry veterinarian, but industry leaders say they had been expecting the change for some time...

Facebook horse posts hit (03/14/12)
The moderator of a Facebook page containing posts about allegedly-malnourished horses at a farm west of Shelbyville was ordered Tuesday to remove some comments and calm posters or face possible arrest. But negative posts poured onto several other Internet message boards while Robin Swindle, owner of the horses, claimed the Tennessee Walking Horse industry holds a vendetta against her and said authorities have cleared her of any alleged wrongdoing...

TWHNC gets $1.5K county donation (03/14/12)
Bedford County Board of Commissioners voted Tuesday night to give $1,500 to the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration for promoting an upcoming quarter horse show, even though a letter from the Celebration to the City of Shelbyville indicates that the money is no longer needed...

Owner: Horses aren't starving (03/13/12)
The owner of several American Saddlebred horses at a small facility west of Shelbyville denies allegations they are starving. "I have been cleared of any wrongdoing," Robin Swindle of Highway 64 West said Monday. "I have proven all that I need to prove."...

Horses' owner denies they're starving (03/12/12)
The owner of a small number of American Saddlebred horses at a small facility west of Shelbyville denies they are starving. "I have been cleared of any wrongdoing," Robin Swindle of Highway 64 West said Monday. "I have proven all that I need to prove."...

Much soring alleged (03/06/12)
An undercover investigation into animal abuse in the Walking Horse industry is only "the tip of the iceberg," a spokesman for the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) told the T-G. Late last week, a 52-count federal indictment alleging a conspiracy to sore horses was unsealed against prominent trainer Jackie L. McConnell, 60, along with employees Jeff Dockery, 54, John Mays, 50, all from Collierville, and Joseph R. Abernathy, 30, of Olive Branch, Miss...

Top trainer accused of soring horses (03/02/12)
A prominent Walking Horse trainer and three others were arrested Thursday and charged in a 52-count federal indictment with violations of the Horse Protection Act (HPA). Jackie L. McConnell, 60, Jeff Dockery, 54, John Mays, 50, all from Collierville, and Joseph R. Abernathy, 30, of Olive Branch, Miss., were charged with conspiracy to violate the protection act by transporting and showing horses they knew to be "sored" and also falsifying entry forms and paperwork...

SHOW says inspection leads to criminal prosecution (03/01/12)
The successful prosecution of Spotted Saddle Horse trainer Barney Davis is a clear demonstration of the effectiveness of the Walking Horse industry's commitment to enforcing the Horse Protection Act, according to a press release issued by the Sound Horses, Honest Judging, Objective Inspections and Winning Fairly (SHOW) organization...

Walking horse industry responds to critical article (03/01/12)
I am Dr. Stephen Mullins, President of SHOW Horse Industry Organization (HIO) which is the largest HIO in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry. I am also a licensed member of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) and owned my own equine practice until heading up the SHOW HIO 3 years ago....

USDA plans discussion over horses (02/29/12)
The USDA will hold a "listening session" in Murfreesboro in April to get public feedback on a number of issues concerning the walking horse industry. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service's (APHIS) Animal Care Program of the USDA will hold the session on April 4 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Doubletree Murfreesboro Hotel at 1850 Old Fort Parkway...

Soring leader sentenced to jail, must submit article (02/28/12)
The ringleader of a local spotted saddle horse soring conspiracy received a sentence of one year and one day in jail from a federal judge Monday, and must educate the public about the problem. Barney Davis, 38, who has been in custody since July of last year, heard his punishment from U.S. District Judge Harry S. Mattice. Davis must also pay a $4,000 fine, and will then serve three years supervised release...

Celebration $1.5K plea reappears (02/22/12)
A proposal to give $1,500 to the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration to help it recruit a quarter horse show will be back on the agenda of Bedford County Board of Commissioners next month. Last week, the commission failed to approve the allocation; it got 8 votes in favor, with one opposed, six abstaining and three absent. The commission's rules require a majority of the full commission -- 10 votes -- to pass a motion, regardless of how many are in attendance...

USDA official slams horse groups hard (02/16/12)
A Department of Agriculture representative who enforces the Horse Protection Act had critical comments for the local equine industry this past weekend. Dr. Chester Gipson, Deputy Administrator for Animal Care with USDA-APHIS, met Saturday with members of the Walking Horse Owners' Association (WHOA) in Murfreesboro, telling members enforcement of the Act would be no different during the 2012 show season than it was last year...

Doggy delight at rodeo Saturday (02/16/12)
Bert Davis, the "Coppertown Clown" and a former contestant on "America's Got Talent," will bring four different acts featuring 10 dogs as one of the featured entertainers Saturday night at the Lone Star Championship Rodeo. The rodeo will be held at Calsonic Arena on the Celebration grounds. Like most such events, it combines serious competition with pageantry and family fun, striving to entertain a variety of spectators...

Donation to TWHNC is denied (02/15/12)
Bedford County Board of Commissioners, meeting Tuesday night, failed to approve a $1,500 allocation to the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration to support bringing a quarter horse show to Calsonic Arena. The measure received 8 votes in favor, with one opposed and six abstaining. Even though three of the 18 commissioners were absent Tuesday, it always takes a 10-vote majority of the full commission to take action...

Celebration searches for new leader (02/12/12)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration search committee is seeking a new chief executive officer. The open position comes as a result of current CEO Dr. Doyle Meadows announcing his intent to resign two months ago. Meadows informed the Celebration's board of directors last December that his tenure as CEO will come to an end in October, 2012, following this year's Celebration...

Horse show gets $2.5K from city (02/10/12)
Shelbyville's city council voted Thursday night to donate $2,500 to the upcoming Spring Showcase horse show set for next month. The show, put on by the Foundation for the Advancement and Support of the Tennessee Walking Show Horse (FAST), is to replace the void left by the departure of the National Trainer's Show from Shelbyville...

Futurity move may be costly (02/09/12)
Moving the Tennessee Walking Horse Futurity to Murfreesboro could end up costing horse owners who were hoping to qualify for the Celebration in August. On Saturday, the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA) announced that this year's Futurity will be held in July in conjunction with the World Versatility Show at MTSU's Miller Coliseum...

Futurity steps away (02/07/12)
The Tennessee Walking Horse Futurity will move to Murfreesboro this year. Formerly held on the first day of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration in August, the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA) announced Saturday that its 2012 Futurity will be held in conjunction with the World Versatility Show, set for July 19-22 in Murfreesboro at Middle Tennessee State University's Tennessee Miller Coliseum...

Horse show rep asks council to donate $10K (02/02/12)
Shelbyville's city council will decide next week how much funding they will donate to an upcoming horse show. The Foundation for the Advancement and Support of the Tennessee Walking Show Horse (FAST) has made a request for funding help for their Spring Showcase set for March 15-17 at Calsonic Arena...

Horse industry needs chance but with a watchful eye (02/02/12)
Requests by officials of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration to Shelbyville's city council and the Bedford County Commission for a total of $11,500 in support of two horse shows bring on a perfect occasion for local officials to take a stand...

New shows seek support (01/25/12)
There are a couple of new horse shows coming to Shelbyville, and organizers are looking for support from both the city and county. The Foundation for the Advancement and Support of the Tennessee Walking Show Horse (FAST) will hold a Spring Showcase from March 15-17 at Calsonic Arena...

Soring sentence includes order to write article for T-G (01/24/12)
Writing a newspaper article about his crimes is part of the punishment given to one of four people who pleaded guilty last year to soring horses. Paul Blackburn, 36, of Shelbyville received a year of probation and a $1,000 fine for conspiracy to violate the Horse Protection Act and substantive violations of the act....

Riding to new heights (01/15/12)
Great Strides will begin its 18th year of therapeutic horseback riding in Bedford County in April of this year. The Times-Gazette spoke about the organization with Kay Dennis, founder and current president. How did Great Strides get its start? Over the years I was involved with special education students in Bedford County and realized there was an opportunity for us to use the walking horses in this community to provide this service to many children. ...

Sentencing delayed in horse soring case (01/12/12)
Sentencing has been delayed until the end of next month for two people who have admitted their guilt in a federal horse soring case. Jeffery Bradford, 33, of Lewisburg, and Christen Altman, 25, of Shelbyville will now be sentenced on Feb. 27 instead of the original date of Feb. 13, according to an order by U.S. District Judge Harry S. Mattice Jr...

Equine equipment businesses merge, expand (12/28/11)
Three equine related businesses are joining forces to become the country's largest supplier of tack and apparel for gaited horses. The Winner's Circle Horse Supply, LLC of Shelbyville has announced an agreement to purchase the assets of gaited horse tack retailers World Champion Horse Equipment and National Bridle Shop...

Trainers' Show makes move (12/22/11)
The first big Tennessee Walking Horse show of 2012 won't be held in Shelbyville as in years past. A conference call was held earlier this week by the board of directors of the Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA) to prepare for the upcoming 2012 National Trainers' Show in White Pine, in Jefferson County, which is in east Tennessee...

TWH groups form unity committee (12/15/11)
Four groups representing the Tennessee Walking Horse Industry have selected members of a new "unity committee" that is to focus on the future of the business. Two weeks ago, the boards of directors of four industry groups -- the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA), Walking Horse Owners' Association (WHOA), Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA) and The Celebration -- met and agreed to form the committee to discuss issues related to the future of the breed in the show ring, as well as unification within the performance horse division.. ...

A dog and pony show. Seriously. (12/09/11)
When guests visit Suzanne Wheeler's horse farm, they tease her that it looks like the colloquial 'dog and pony show' -- which seemed like the perfect name for an event featuring and honoring both. "Who do you know that loves horses, who doesn't also have dogs?" said Wheeler...

Celebration's Meadows to leave in '12 (12/02/11)
Dr. Doyle Meadows informed the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration board of directors earlier this week that he will step down as CEO at the end of October, 2012, following the 74th annual event. Meadows told the board at its annual planning meeting and sent a letter to the members of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration Association, the larger body from which board members are chosen...

TWH groups team up to fight change (12/01/11)
A "Unity Committee" will be formed to discuss issues related to the future of the Tennessee Walking Horse in the show ring and also to discuss unification within the performance horse division. However, the group objected to any reduction of pads and action devices for walking horses, also opposing proposed mandatory penalties by the Department of Agriculture (USDA)...

Horse groups close ranks (11/29/11)
The Tennessee Walking Horse industry will meet Wednesday to appoint a committee to look at "the welfare and future" of animals in the show ring. A recently passed appropriations bill includes a large increase in federal funding for enforcement of the Horse Protection Act, used to combat the practice of soring...

Letters to the Editor, Nov. 17 (11/17/11)
Editor's Note: When Barney Davis was arrested in connection with soring Spotted Saddle Horses in July, 2011, the Times-Gazette was contacted by a representative of the Walking Horse Trainers' Association, stating Barney Davis was not a member of the WHTA. ...

Document describes soring methods inflicted by convicted SSH trainers (11/13/11)
Documents made public recently in a local horse soring case detailed the abusive methods used on the animals. Last week, Barney Davis, 38, and Jeffery Bradford, 33, both of Lewisburg, and Christen Altman, 25, of Shelbyville, pleaded guilty to charges involving a conspiracy to sore spotted saddle horses and falsify paperwork...

3 plead guilty in soring conspiracy (11/09/11)
Three people at the center of a conspiracy to violate the Horse Protection Act pleaded guilty on Tuesday. Barney Davis, 38, and Jeffery Bradford, 33, both of Lewisburg, and Christen Altman, 25, of Shelbyville, appeared for a federal court hearing in Chattanooga and changed their pleas, admitting guilt...

TWH museum involves public in planning (11/04/11)
Wartrace will be having a "Night at the Museum" soon, but it's not the kind seen in the movies where exhibits come to life. Instead, the new home of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum is asking for the public's input as to how to tell their story...

Peebles cleared of sex charges (11/03/11)
Following a two-day trial, a Shelbyville horse trainer was found not guilty by a Bedford County jury of sexually related charges involving minors. J.W. "Dick" Peebles, 61, of Holt Avenue was arrested in January and charged with two counts of sexual battery, two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor by electronic means and solicitation of a minor...

Soring suspect pleads guilty (10/20/11)
A Shelbyville man is facing a year in federal prison after pleading guilty to charges involving soring spotted saddle horses. Paul Blackburn, 35, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Chattanooga Tuesday to conspiracy to violate the Horse Protection Act. He is to be sentenced on Jan. 23 and faces up to a year in prison and a $3,000 fine...

Soring suspects plan to plead guilty (10/09/11)
The three remaining defendants in an alleged conspiracy involving soring spotted saddle horses have announced their intention to plead guilty to federal charges. Christen Altman, 25, of Shelbyville; Barney Davis, 38, and Jeffery Bradford, 33, both of Lewisburg; and Paul Blackburn, 35, of Shelbyville have all had hearings set before U.S. Magistrate Judge William B. Carter to change their pleas to guilty...

Older barns bite the dust at TWHNC (10/07/11)
Five of the older white horse barns are being torn down this week on the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration grounds. The Celebration has made no official announcement about whether the barns will eventually be replaced, but officials have indicated that fewer stalls are needed on the grounds and that removing the older barns will add parking spaces...

Saddle 'em up! Strolling Jim Trail Ride draws hundreds (10/06/11)
The Strolling Jim Memorial Trail Ride, now in its 12th year, will be held this Saturday in Wartrace. An average of 500 riders attend the family-friendly event each year, according to organizer Ray Pimental. "Once you come, you're hooked," Pimental said Wednesday as he ticked off name after name of riders who attend year after year. ...

Champs finish 8th in state tourney (09/29/11)
For the first time in school history, the Cascade Champions competed in the A-AA state golf tournament, which was held at the Willow Brook Golf Club in Manchester on Tuesday and Wednesday. After the two-day tournament had concluded, the Champs finished eighth overall as a team with a combined score of 671...

Spots before their eyes (09/25/11)
From the time Beth Lawwell was a baby, horses have been a part of her everyday life -- and that tradition, passion and love for the breed is being passed down to her children. Her husband Josh and their two children, Jessica, 6, and Johnathan, 2, are horse crazy about spots...

Celebration attendance shows drop (09/13/11)
Attendance at this year's Celebration continued its downward trend, mirroring other recreational sporting events, with paid attendance at 168,481, down from 176,732 in 2010. "Although paid attendance was down 4.5 percent, a lot of people felt like the actual attendance at the Celebration was up," said Dr. Doyle Meadows, explaining "more people were in the stands," using tickets they purchased in advance...

'Stick'ing out in a crowd (09/11/11)
As horses worked the big oval during the last days of summer, local children had a show all their own, and they didn't need horses. Not real ones, anyway. Preschoolers from Miss Judie's at the Park Day Care "walked on" aboard their stick horses for the inaugural Walking for the Children Stick Horse Show...

Fall Classic won't be held (09/09/11)
Sometimes one show tells you all you need to know. The Celebration announced earlier this week that it would not be hosting the Celebration Fall Classic horse show it initiated last year. The show had been slated for Oct. 13-15. "The main reason we did it to start with was to explore the possibility of moving the Celebration further into the year," said Doyle Meadows, Celebration CEO. ...

Horseback in the moonlight... a perfect ride (09/07/11)
Is there anything better than a moonlight ride, listening to the steady clop of hooves and jingle-jangle of bits and bridles, all accompanied by the night song of crickets, cicadas and owls, and washed soft silver by the light of a full moon? How about a moonlight ride that not only gives you all of that, but also gives you the satisfaction of helping others? The Bedford County Cancer Foundation is holding its second annual Moonlight Trail Ride on Garrett Winnette's property at 161 West Rd. ...

Game World claims 2011 WGC (09/04/11)
Game World, ridden by Gary Edwards, was named World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse on Saturday night to close out the 73rd Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. The horse is owned by Chester and Lynda Stokes of Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla...

BREAKING: Game World wins 2011 TWH World Grand Championship (09/03/11)
Game World, with Gary Edwards up for Chester and Lynda Stokes of Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla. won the 2011 Tennesse Walking Horse World Grand Championship stake Saturday night.

Copperfield wins four-year-old championship (09/03/11)
Copperfield and Knox Blackburn won the Four-Year-Old Walking Horse World Grand Championship (Canter) at Friday night's Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration in front of a lively and appreciative crowd. Receiving huge support and applause as well, Mr. Heisman and Brandye Mills pulled in to accept the reserve title for owners Randall & Sadie Baskin of Franklin. The LA Ritz and Joe Cotton were next for the third place honors for Rock Island, TN owners, Donnie & Charlotte Taylor...

World Grand Champion trainers (09/02/11)
Several of the best known Tennessee walking horse trainers took time away from the National Celebration to celebrate their fans by signing autographs at World Champion Horse Equipment on Madison Street. Russ Thompson of Unionville, left, chats with Vicki Self of Lewisburg while Billy Gray of Shelbyville autographs a collectible Breyer horse display. A steady stream of walking horse fans kept the trio busy signing a variety of memorabilia. (T-G Photo by Kent Flanagan)

Honors claims 3-year-old title (09/02/11)
The traditional final three championship nights began Thursday at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration with 12 winners riding to floral horseshoes. Thursday featured 140 horses in front of 16,407 fans. As always on the last Thursday evening, the final class was the Three-Year-Old World Grand Championship. ...

Aged stallions usually win, but could this be the year of the dark horse? (09/01/11)
Traditionally, Saturday night's World Grand Championship at the Tennessee Walking Horse World Grand Championship crowns a horse from the aged stallion division. But that doesn't mean the World Grand Champion has to be an aged stallion. "It's anybody's game," said Dr. Doyle Meadows, Celebration CEO, in an interview with the Times-Gazette prior to the Celebration. "You just never know."...

1939 competitor revisits Celebration (09/01/11)
Several residents of Christian Care Center of Bedford County attended the Celebration on Thursday last week; for one of them, Mildred Bobo, it was a particularly poignant experience. "I hadn't been in years," said Bobo, 86. But, make no mistake about it, she's loved the Celebration ever since it started in 1939; she was a blue ribbon winner at that very first show, a fearless 14-year-old farm girl riding a two-year-old horse named Lady B. ...

Celebration prelims wind down (09/01/11)
Wednesday was the final night of preliminary classes at the 73rd annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Spectators will be treated to World Grand Championship classes and victory rides adorned with floral horseshoes tonight through Saturday...

Inspector is capable, USDA says (08/31/11)
The U.S. Department of Agriculture responded to the Times-Gazette's inquiry about the experience level of veterinarians inspecting horses during last Saturday evening's Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Industry leaders expressed their frustration with USDA inspectors after the agency turned down six horses before the aged stallion class...

Young Celebration fans love their own special events (08/31/11)
Activities outside the ring have paralleled the excitement inside the show ring for those who've attended the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. At any given time, horse enthusiasts can be seen visiting with each other in front of the barns, locals can be sighted picking up a dozen of the famous doughnuts and youths might be seen swapping stories about the latest world champion...

New traffic plan works well so far (08/31/11)
Reduced departure time after the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration's busier nights is already noticeable, emergency officials say, but changes in traffic patterns are still a work in progress. "It appears to be emptying out fairly quickly," Scott Johnson, director of Bedford County Emergency Management Agency, said Tuesday. "The real time to tell will be Thursday, Friday and Saturday -- the big nights."...

Blues awarded as championships near (08/31/11)
World Grand Championship classes are just two days away and things are well underway at the 73rd annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Enthusiastic fans were greeted with a 13-class schedule full of talented horses Tuesday night. Jimmy McConnell walked off with the blue ribbon on One Fine Line in the Four-Year-Old Walking Mares (Canter) class. Main Sweetie and Phillip Trimble received reserve honors...

Two-year-old stallions triple the fun (08/30/11)
The Two Year Old Stallion class was split three ways again this year at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration on Monday night. It was the first time at this year's show any horse from this class took a step around the big oval under saddle...

Eight stallions denied; inexperienced VMO criticized (08/30/11)
Discrepancies inside the inspection area at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration last Saturday night resulted in eight horses being turned away from a chance to compete for the walking horse World Grand Championship. Inspectors representing SHOW (Sound Horses, Honest Judging, Objective Inspections and Winning Fairly), the Celebration-sanctioned horse industry organization that ensures horses are in compliance with the Horse Protection Act, passed all but two horses of the 15 that showed up for the aged stallion competition classes.. ...

Alexander says Senate not as acrimonious as cable TV (08/30/11)
U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander, visiting the Celebration on Monday night with his granddaughter, told the Times-Gazette that while there are major ideological differences on Capitol Hill, the atmosphere isn't as personally acrimonious as some might assume...

Four-year-olds captivate Sunday night crowd (08/29/11)
The Four-Year-Old Walking Stallions commanded the crowd's attention on this Sunday night in Shelbyville! The weather stayed perfect and it became a pleasantly cooler evening for performances at the 73rd Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration�...

Carving a niche: Artist creates horses from wood (08/28/11)
Two years ago, local cartoon artist Kevin Rains stumbled across an old chain saw while helping clean out his family's cabin in the Smokey Mountains. That find sparked a curiosity in Kevin that's become his new passion. After finding the chain saw, Kevin began studying the craft of wood carving. He's been practicing and fine tuning his skills ever since, growing a collection of art that ranges from walking sticks to pumpkins to black bears...

Alexander to visit Celebration on Monday (08/28/11)
Sen. Lamar Alexander is scheduled to visit the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration on Monday night. Alexander will visit center ring and make a presentation to a class winner, according to a TWHNC press release Saturday. The Republican senator and former Tennessee governor will attend as a guest of Steve Smith, a Tennessee walking horse breeder from Brentwood and member of the breed's Hall of Fame...

Horse show brings life to Shelbyville (08/28/11)
What a great time of year it is for Shelbyville and Bedford County! With horse show fans filling up our town and school in session, August is always undoubtedly a busy time of year for us at the paper. For me, this August has been particularly busy, yet fun and rewarding too...

Horse doctor has the cure (08/28/11)
When Dr. John Bennett heads out to work, it's still dark outside. Many days, by the time he gets home it's dark again. In the meantime, he will have traveled hundreds of miles, seen dozens of patients, and swapped jokes and friendly insults with grooms. trainers and owners...

Folsom Prison Blues, Game World win stallion class (08/27/11)
Folsom Prison Blues, Rodney Dick riding for the Jimmy Smith Family of Oliver Springs, won the "A" division of Walking Stallions, Five Years and Over, Over 15.2 (Canter). The "B" division was won by Game World, Gary Edwards up for Chester and Lynda Stokes of Ponte Vedra Beach, Fla....

Longtime organist keeps 'em stepping high (08/27/11)
For the past 28 years, Larry Bright has been the man at the organ who fills The Celebration grounds with that familiar sound each season. And he's back again for his 29th appearance, taking his familiar seat in the center ring to liven up the nightly proceedings of the horses going around the ring...

Voice of show urges fans to relax (08/27/11)
The familiar voice of Bobby Sands continues to fill the air of the Celebration grounds this year and he has one message for guests of the show: Forget about the troubles of the world, "get in a Celebration state of mind" and just enjoy yourself. He should know. Sands got his start announcing horse shows back in 1972 at an event run by Middle Tennessee State University's Block and Bridle Club, and soon found himself in high demand...

Evening performances kick off at Celebration (08/26/11)
It's finally here! The time horse show fans wait for all year long. It's Celebration time in Tennessee. While the 73rd edition of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has officially been underway since Wednesday morning, for many Celebration diehards the show really doesn't get started until it moves to the historic outdoor arena on Thursday evening...

Celebration traffic to flow differently (08/26/11)
Tennessee Highway Patrol, Shelbyville Police Department, and Celebration security officials have developed a new traffic control plan for the five nights of the Celebration with the highest attendance: tonight and Saturday, and Thursday through Saturday of next week...

Givens dominates model competition (08/25/11)
After a great night of looking at the future of our industry on Wednesday night at the TWHBEA National Futurity, horse show fans & exhibitors return to Calsonic Arena on Thursday morning for the morning session of the 73rd Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. The 12 class schedule featured the Model, Trail Pleasure, Lite Shod & Park Pleasure divisions...

Trade Fair opens (08/25/11)
Dian Brown organizes T-shirts for sale at the Celebration gift shop in Calsonic Arena. The gift shop and several other vendors that are part of the 25th annual Trade Fair opened for business Wednesday. The Trade Fair, which is free to the public, is open each day of the Celebration from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. (T-G Photo by Sadie Fowler)

Celebration offers three-night box seat combination (08/24/11)
The Celebration begins its 2011 Walking Horse pageantry on today with a Celebration day performance and the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association National Futurity beginning at 5:30 p.m. The Celebration is making a special effort to encourage the community to purchase tickets...

Let 'em walk on! Celebration has begun (08/24/11)
Temperatures in the mid-90s didn't exhaust the enthusiasm of horse show fans moving onto the show grounds Tuesday. The 73rd edition of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration began this morning with classes in Calsonic Arena. The annual Trade Fair opened as well and the National Futurity competition, sponsored by the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association, kicks off at 5:30 p.m. All are free to the public...

Follow the Celebration online (08/24/11)
If you're looking to follow the 73rd Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration and the Tennessee Walking Horse industry online, here are some handy links. You can also find these, in clickable form, at the Celebration page of the Times-Gazette web site, http://www.t-g.com/twhnc...

Futurity sponsor gives back (08/23/11)
The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association National Futurity competition is offering free admission this year. The futurity will be held Wednesday and serves as a kickoff to the 73rd annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration...

Banners hung (08/16/11)
Crews from Shelbyville Power, Water and Sewerage System installed banners welcoming Celebration visitors on North Main Street this morning. The banners were a topic of discussion earlier this summer; Shelbyville City Council granted permission for them to be placed, but declined to contribute anything toward creating them, and debated about the wording.

Suspect in soring case stays in jail (08/14/11)
A federal judge has ordered a Lewisburg man to remain in custody until his trial in October on charges involving an alleged conspiracy to sore spotted saddle horses and money laundering. Barney Davis, 38, was due to appear at a detention hearing Thursday in federal court in Chattanooga but, according to court documents, Davis has decided to waive any hearing...

Sign of support (08/12/11)
The Celebration has asked Shelbyville businesses to welcome visitors on their marquee signs. The Capri Theater on Depot Street complied with the request. (T-G Photo by Brian Mosely)

Ambassadors to greet Celebration visitors (08/11/11)
Shelbyville & Bedford County Chamber of Commerce ambassadors, who already represent the chamber at events such as ribbon-cuttings and coffees, will serve as greeters this year at the Celebration, welcoming visitors at the three most-used entrances to the outdoor arena and handing out the brochure for the "Jack Trail" including sites in Bedford County...

Wartrace Horse Show makes a splash (08/09/11)
Heavy rain and storms that bombarded Bedford County Saturday disappeared just in time for folks to converge for the historic Tennessee walking horse show Saturday in Wartrace -- muddy track and all. Saturday marked the 105th edition of the show, which has always been a favorite stop for many exhibitors on their way to the Celebration. It's the last in a series of three shows, including Fayetteville and Belfast, that often serve as the last tuneups for horses showing at the Celebration...

Dates scheduled for Peebles trial (08/07/11)
A Bedford County horse trainer is to stand trial this fall on charges he committed sex crimes against three minors. Dick Peebles will have a jury trial on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 for two counts of sexual battery, two counts of sexual exploitation of a minor by electronic means and solicitation of a minor...

Champion ribbons (08/07/11)
With ribbons like this going up all over Shelbyville, you know that Celebration time is drawing near. The display of the ribbons, which say "Our visitors are number 1" and "We are the Celebration," is part of an effort from the Celebration Association, which is busy distributing the ribbons to the business and retail community around town. Banners welcoming visitors to the city and the Celebration will also soon be erected as well. (T-G Photo by Brian Mosely)

Celebration entry numbers decrease (08/05/11)
Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration officials announced Thursday afternoon the preliminary entry numbers for this year's world grand championship horse show. This year, 2,874 entries will compete in the show, down 340 from last year's show, said Dr. Doyle Meadows, chief executive officer of The Celebration...

History lives at Wartrace Horse Show (08/02/11)
It's one of the last shows before the Celebration -- and one of the oldest shows in Tennessee. Come Saturday to Wartrace, and you'll see history walking, running walking, and cantering around the ring at the horse show grounds. "It should be a good show this year," said Heather Beard, secretary for the horse show committee. "All of our classes are sponsored -- there's 25 -- and trainers' response has been real good."...

Getting ready (08/02/11)
Will Finch sweeps away old paint being scraped away from steps underneath the east stands at the Celebration Grounds last Friday. The steps were freshly painted Monday as the grounds crew prepares for the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration later this month. (T-G Photo by David Melson)

Suspect in soring case is arrested (07/29/11)
A Lewisburg man accused in a conspiracy involving charges of soring spotted saddle horses and money laundering has been taken into custody by U.S. marshals. The T-G has confirmed that Barney Davis, 38, is now being held in Chattanooga for an alleged "supervised release violation from an earlier charge," according to Paul Salayko, a deputy U.S. marshal who handles public affairs...

McDonald still feels the spark (07/26/11)
Even on the week of his retirement, Charles McDonald talks excitedly about future projects and initiatives at Duck River Electric Membership Corporation, his employer for the past 37 years. McDonald, director of member services for the Shelbyville-based, multi-county electric cooperative, which serves 2,500 square miles of Middle Tennessee, will retire on Friday...

Trial dates reset in conspiracy case (07/24/11)
Trial dates in federal court have again been reset for four people accused in a conspiracy involving charges of soring horses and money laundering. U.S. District Judge Harry S. Mattice Jr. has ordered that Christen Altman, 25, of Shelbyville; Barney Davis, 38, and Jeffery Bradford, 33, both of Lewisburg; and Paul Blackburn, 35, of Shelbyville have their case heard by a 12-person jury on Tuesday, Oct. 18, in Chattanooga...

Judges chosen for 2011 TWHNC (07/21/11)
The 2011 Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration will feature 12 years of Celebration judging experience within the five members of the judging panel. Jennifer Bingham and Jeff Willis, both of Shelbyville, Jamie Hankins of Paris, Ky., Ronnie Spears of Tullahoma and Jamie Bradshaw of Union Grove, Ala. were named judges of this year's 73rd annual event...

Banners yes, funds no: Council (07/21/11)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration received permission from Shelbyville's city council to display banners to promote the annual event, but no city funds will be going toward the effort. The CEO of the Celebration lamented the lack of support from the city for the annual event, while the council focused on the wording of the banners, a major sticking point that one member called "a mountain out of a molehill."...

Mule show a 'great' success (07/13/11)
Hundreds of donkeys and mules, their owners, trainers and fans visited the Celebration show grounds last week for the Great Celebration Mule and Donkey Show. It was, you could say, a braying success. "It went great," said Dale Barnett, marketing and media director for Calsonic Arena. "We had great classes, the crowd was really into it. The rain felt good and the humidity didn't."...

Soring suspect seeks delay in court date (07/13/11)
A Shelbyville woman accused of soring horses, money laundering and wire fraud is asking a federal judge for more time to prepare her defense. Christen Altman, 25, of Shelbyville filed a motion in U.S. District Court in Chattanooga asking to declare the case against her as "complex litigation" and is requesting a continuance in the matter, which is set for trial on Tuesday, Aug. 9...

Donkeys, mules hit the ring (07/08/11)
The Celebration offered its own sort of "Hee-Haw and Howdy" Wednesday evening as the mule and donkey show exhibitors trotted into town. While Celebration staff grilled burgers and chicken breasts for the visitors, the mules and donkeys themselves provided the sound track with snorts, whinnies and the occasional bray...

City asked to help purchase banners (07/08/11)
A representative of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration is asking the city for financial help to purchase banners they hope to place throughout Shelbyville. Harold Segroves addressed the council, saying that he is chairing a committee at the Celebration to raise awareness in the community of the importance of the annual walking horse show to the local economy and to welcome visitors...

Big donkey, mule show is this week (07/05/11)
When you drive into Clearview Farm on U.S. 231 South, you'll see almost every breed of horse imaginable grazing in the fields or resting in the elegant barns. There will be quarter horses and Arabians, Freisians and walking horses, Appaloosas and spotted saddlehorses...

Wartrace lands Tennessee Walking Horse Museum (07/01/11)
You can't write the history of the Tennessee walking horse without mentioning Wartrace -- and soon, that's where you'll go to see that history firsthand. The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration announced Thursday afternoon that the "Cradle of the Tennessee Walking Horse" is now the home of the Tennessee Walking Horse Museum...

F.A.S.T. horse show offers relaxed weekend fun (07/01/11)
Holiday weekends always seem to be fast, full and frantic, but Calsonic Arena is offering everyone a chance to slow down, kick back, and watch someone else work for a change. The second annual F.A.S.T. (Foundation for the Advancement and Support of the Tennessee Walking Show Horse) Showcase horse show is Sunday. Admission and parking are free, and there will be other, special events inside, such as face painting and -- as always -- information booths about the Tennessee walking horse...

Wartrace gets museum (06/30/11)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration announced Thursday afternoon that Wartrace, the "Cradle of the Tennessee Walking Horse," is now the home of the Tennessee Walking Horse Museum. Originally based in Shelbyville, the museum was moved to Lynchburg when a location was made available and because members of the museum board felt there would be more tourist traffic to the free venue. ...

Horse heaven on earth at 4-H show (06/28/11)
It was a spiritual buffet for the horse lover's soul last week at Calsonic Arena, with horses and riders coming from all over Tennessee to compete in the State 4-H Horse Championships. There were many breeds: quarter horse, thoroughbred, Arabian, Morgan, Tennessee Walking Horse, POA. There was every color imaginable, from flea-bitten gray to golden palomino. Polo and cross-country were just about the only horse-related events that weren't represented. Yet...

4-H Horse Show competitor moves on with more than memories (06/19/11)
Georgia Ralston is no stranger to horse shows. She has been showing in county shows, Academy shows and 4-H shows since she was only 3, when her aunt plopped her into the saddle for lead-line competitions. "My dad was a big cattle farmer and he didn't like horses. They don't make money," said the teenager, laughing. "My aunt really pushed it."...

Trial dates reset for soring suspects (06/08/11)
Trial dates have once again been reset for four area residents accused of soring horses, while one was arraigned in federal court on Monday. U.S. Magistrate Judge William B. Mitchell Carter ruled Monday that Barney Davis, 38, of Lewisburg, Christen Altman, 25, of Shelbyville, Paul Blackburn, 35, of Shelbyville and Jeffery Bradford, 33, of Lewisburg will now stand trial Tuesday, Aug. 9 in Chattanooga...

CLARIFICATION: Peebles case bound over to grand jury (06/09/11)
A horse trainer accused of sex crimes against three minors waived his right to a preliminary hearing Tuesday, and has been bound over to the next session of the grand jury. Dick Peebles appeared briefly before General Sessions Judge Charles Rich, and his attorney, Clay Parker, stated that Peebles was voluntarily waiving his right to the hearing, which would have determined if there is enough evidence in the case to bind him over to the next grand jury session...

Funding cuts force layoffs of CDC workers (06/05/11)
"We serve the whole family, not just the child," says Teresa Winnette, manager of the Bedford County Child Development Center. The CDC provides comprehensive, early intervention services to meet the needs of developmentally challenged children ages birth to three years. On average, they serve 72 children each year...

Small horses have large following (06/03/11)
Janice Bryant is the proud owner of The Whole Nine Yards. No, not the 2003 World Grand Champion Tennessee walking horse, but a slightly smaller version. Okay, a much, much, much smaller version. If trainer Bill Bobo had to work with this Whole Nine Yards, he might find it easier to carry the horse than to have the horse carry him. Janice's version is a miniature horse, standing only 34 inches tall at the withers...

Horse experts meet state's native breed (06/03/11)
Usually, when the terms "Belgium," "The United Kingdom," and "Germany" crop up in an article about the Celebration and Tennessee walking horses, they are followed by terms such as "Special exhibition of ... Belgians, Thoroughbreds or Hanoverians." But the representatives of these three countries who shared a table at the Blue Ribbon Circle Thursday afternoon weren't horses -- they were experts on horses. ...

Liberty Lions prepare for horse show (06/02/11)
The Liberty Lions Club's 11th annual Walking Horse Show is coming up and the civic group is looking for sponsors. The show date is June 17 and money raised from the events helps many Lions Club projects in the Shelbyville and Rich Valley areas such as eye and hearing screening each year at Liberty School, financial assistance for eye glasses/exams, hearing aids, and the After Christmas food program which this past year provided food for more than 100 family members...

Folsom Prison escapes with blue (05/31/11)
All five of the stallions vying for the stakes class at the Spring Fun Show had their supporters, and the cheers followed them around the ring at Calsonic Arena like a wave Saturday night. Fans cheered on Star, the Reserve World Grand Champion of last year's Celebration and this year's National Trainers' Show. They clapped and whistled for Puttin Cash on the Line, who won two stakes classes last year, and they "whooped and hollered" for Jail Time, Folsom Prison Blues and Ultimate Power Stroke...

Fun Show visitors often spring back (05/28/11)
The Celebration's Spring Fun Show will end tonight, but many of those who came to watch, exhibit, or both will be back next year. And the next. "It's a family tradition," said Jill Smith of Jackson. "It has been for 25 years." Of course for her and her husband Verner and their children, it's also a family reunion as well as a family tradition...

'Traveler' joins owner at Fun Show (05/27/11)
Angie Runnels of Cape Girardeau, Mo., has been coming to the Celebration's Spring Fun Show for years, but this year, for the first time, she'll have a horse competing. Her 8-year-old Silver's Travelin' Shadow, called "Traveler" around the barn, was entered in the very first class, the Model class...

Peebles hearing set for June 20 (05/26/11)
A preliminary hearing for a horse trainer accused of sex crimes against three minors has been set for next month. Dick Peebles will appear before General Sessions Judge Charles Rich to see if there is enough proof in the case to bind him over to the next session of the Bedford County grand jury, which is scheduled to meet on June 20...

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