 Head of breeders' group sees better days ahead (05/07/08)
From a champion-less Celebration to costly lawsuits and bad press, the last few years have been hard on the Walking Horse industry, including its oldest organization, the international Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association. Stan Butt, the new TWHBEA executive director, has every intention of turning those hard times around -- and has already begun to do so... |
New TWHBEA director understands rural lifestyle (05/07/08)
Born and raised in Portland, Tenn., Stan Butt is familiar with the rural life. The new executive director for the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association not only lived around an agricultural lifestyle, he came to write about it... |
 Minature horse show here (04/25/08)
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 TWHBEA names executive director (04/22/08)
Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA) announced Sunday that Stan Butt has been named as executive director. Butt has been serving as interim executive director since December. "Stan has done an outstanding job of helping restore financial accountability and fiscal responsibility to our Association," said Mike Inman, TWHBEA vice president for administrative, fiscal and audit matters, who chairs the group's personnel committee. ... |
 New roof on Blue Ribbon Circle (04/18/08)
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 Horse country delights tour group (04/17/08)
A Vermont-based tour company made a stop in the land of walking horses Tuesday as part of an Elderhostel Tour that included tourists from all over the country. Elderhostel is a non-profit organization that offers in-depth and behind-the-scenes learning experiences and adventures in all 50 states for folks over 60. ... |
 Judges named for Fun Show (04/17/08)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration announced its judging panel for the 38th annual Spring Fun Show on Tuesday. Gene "Smokey" Carswell of Morehead, Ky., Jennifer Bingham Davis of Shelbyville and Mike McCormick of Shelbyville have been selected... |
 Rowdy Rev rides for blue (04/08/08)
Will the third time be the charm for Bill Bobo and Rowdy Rev? The Shelbyville trainer rode the big, 7-year-old Tennessee Walking Horse stallion to top honors in the recent Walking Horse Trainers Association show, held over Easter weekend at Calsonic Arena. Considered the kick-off show for the season, winners catch the public eye early and try to keep that attention going strong through The Celebration... |
 New Celebration CEO hopes to involve youth (03/26/08)
Doyle Meadows, new CEO of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, spoke to an enthusiastic group of breakfast Rotarians bright and early this morning at Richard's Cafeteria. "It is such a pleasure to be here," said Meadows, a native of Texas. "The Celebration is the garden of our community chest, and I appreciate that and I appreciate [breakfast Rotarians] ... you are also part of the community chest."... |
 Trainers' show kicks off season (03/22/08)
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 Celebration CEO hits the ground running (03/19/08)
Monday was the first official day on the job for Dr. Doyle Meadows, the new chief executive officer of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, and as the horse show season begins Meadows expects doesn't expect much downtime his first week... |
 Trainers' show opens Wednesday (03/18/08)
The 2008 horse show season kicks off Wednesday night at Calsonic Arena as the 40th Annual National Walking Horse Trainers' Show opens for its four-night run. The event, sponsored by the Walking Horse Trainers Association, is considered one of the top early-season shows in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry... |
 State honors World Grand Champion (03/17/08)
State Agriculture Commissioner Ken Givens recently honored 2007 Tennessee Walking Horse World Grand Champion owners Lee Wall and Mike McGartland and trainer Jimmy McConnell. Givens recognized Wall, McGarland and McConnell during a luncheon of industry leaders and supporters at the Ellington Agricultural Center. Givens represented Gov. Phil Bredesen at the event, which has become a tradition to recognize the contributions of the Walking Horse industry to the state... |
Western Park Pleasure classes restored (03/12/08)
Western Park Pleasure classes have been restored to the schedule at the 2008 Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration following discussions with exhibitors and trainers. After researching the past six years and seeing a dramatic decline in entries in that division, a total of four Western Park Pleasure classes were deleted from the initial 2008 class schedule. ... |
 Little joins TWHNC Hall of Fame (03/03/08)
Bailey Little of Shelbyville was among 13 new members inducted into the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration Hall of Fame during a Feb. 23 dinner at Calsonic Arena on the Celebration grounds. The hall recognizes both horse industry professionals and others who support the operation of the annual show... |
Celebration rentals being sought (02/29/08)
Shelbyville & Bedford County Chamber of Commerce officials are already getting inquiries from horse show visitors about renting homes during the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration in August. One Chamber staff member said the early inquiries are a sign that interest in the program may be strong this year. Although the deadline for listing property is July 25, applying now may give homeowners a chance to work out an arrangement much sooner... |
 Futurity returns to TWHNC fold (02/26/08)
The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders and Exhibitors Association has reached an agreement re-affiliating its annual Futurity with the Celebration. The two events were not affiliated during 2007, after many years of joint operation. The new agreement will allow the Futurity to use the Celebration's judging panel and allow Futurity classes to once again function as preliminary classes for the 2008 Celebration... |
 Celebraton shows affiliate with NHSC (02/22/08)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration announced that its 70th world championship horse show and the 38th Annual Celebration Spring Fun Show will be affiliated with the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC). The Celebration will select its judging panel for both shows from the NHSC's pool of judges. The NHSC will also provide DQPs (Designated Qualified Persons) to inspect all entries at each of the events... |
 Meadows takes Celebration's reins (02/20/08)
Pat Marsh, chairman of the search committee for the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, announced the appointment of Doyle Meadows as its new chief executive officer this week. "After an extensive selection process in which we interviewed many exceptional candidates, I am pleased to announce the unanimous decision of the Board of the Celebration to select Dr. ... |
 Top 20, for the 20th time (02/16/08)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has been named a Top 20 Event by the Southeast Tourism Society. It marks the 20th time in the last 21 years that The Celebration has been listed as a Top 20 Event. "We appreciate this honor very much," said Celebration Interim CEO Virgil Johnson. "We were put on the list for the very first time in 1988 and it has been our goal to continue to work extremely hard to earn that honor again each and every year."... |
 TWH museum posts big numbers in 2007 (02/13/08)
The Tennessee Walking Horse Museum in Lynchburg posted strong attendance numbers for 2007, with 12,180 visitors stopping by. A joint venture of the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors Association and the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, the museum is open year round and chronicles the history of the breed and its world championship show... |
Celebration holds prices for third year (02/07/08)
Prices for the 2008 Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration will remain the same for the third consecutive year, following recent action by the Celebration board of directors. "We feel like there were some great strides made in our industry during 2007," said board chairman David L. Howard. "After the events of 2006, The Celebration and our entire industry had to work hard to regain the public trust. That work is ongoing."... |
 TWHNC is animal evac site (01/28/08)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration Grounds will be an emergency evacuation site for large animals, according to an agreement reached between the world championship horse show and Bedford County government. The request for the agreement originated with the Law Enforcement Committee of the Bedford County Commission and included input from Bedford County Animal Control, Bedford County Emergency Management Agency, Shelbyville-Bedford County Humane Association, the University of Tennessee Extension Service, and The Celebration.. ... |
 Celebration gives to 'Moving Wall' (01/24/08)
The Moving Wall, the half-size replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C., is scheduled to be in Shelbyville from Oct. 30-Nov. 3. It will be open to the public at Riverwalk Park behind the Fly Arts Center, home of the Shelbyville-Bedford County History Museum... |
 Lone Star Rodeo returns Feb. 2 (01/22/08)
Lone Star World Championship Rodeo, a perennial favorite at Calsonic Arena, will make its annual Shelbyville stop 7:30 p.m. Feb. 2, with show time at 7:30 p.m. Billed as "the largest one-day rodeo in Tennessee," the event will include sanctioned competition in bareback bronc riding, calf roping, breakaway roping, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, cowgirls' barrel racing, team roping and brahma bull riding... |
 TWHNC holds annual meeting (01/17/08)
The annual meeting of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration Association was held Tuesday in the Blue Ribbon Circle Club on the Celebration grounds. Celebration Board of Directors Chairman David L. Howard presided over the meeting and brought association members up to date on the state of the industry and the search for a new chief executive officer. ... |
Group takes steps to promote sound horses (01/04/08)
"The End of Soring" is the goal of the first Sound Horse Conference to be held in Columbus, Ohio, later this year. The event is set for April 11-12 at the Hilton Garden Inn and is sponsored by Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders and Exhibitors Association, the American Association of Equine Practitioners, the American Horse Protection Association, Friends of Sound Horses and the Humane Society of the United States... |
 Holton execution, Thomas' firing are year's top stories (12/31/07)
For the past week, the Times-Gazette has been looking back at 2007 by counting down the top 10 news stories of the year as voted by a panel of T-G staffers. Here are the stories revealed so far: 10) Standardized School Attire proposed... |
 School attire, TWHNC begin top story countdown (12/26/07)
From now until New Year's Eve, the Times-Gazette will take a look back at 2007 by counting down the top 10 news stories of the year as voted by a panel of T-G staffers. What makes a story newsworthy? There are several factors can come into play. ... |
Celebration names CEO search committee (12/15/07)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has formed a search committee to find a new chief executive officer and show manager. Director Pat Marsh, who will serve as the committee's chairman, selected the seven-member committee. The members of the committee are all members of the TWHNC Association. In addition to Marsh, they include Tommy Anderton, David Crowell, Edward C. Huffman, Jr., Scott McDonald, D.B. Nelson, Jr., and Donna Stone... |
Truck stolen from The Scoop (12/12/07)
A truck belonging to The Scoop horse industry newspaper was stolen from in front of its Elm Street offices after noon Sunday, Shelbyville police say. The theft was reported Monday. The following persons were arrested since Monday by the Shelbyville Police Department, Bedford County Sheriff's Department, Tennessee Highway Patrol or 17th Judicial District Drug Task Force and processed through Bedford County Jail. They are only charged; guilt or innocence will be determined by the courts... |
 Walking Horses to patrol National Parks (12/11/07)
LEWISBURG -- The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association has announced a first-of-its-kind partnership with the National Park Service. An agreement between the organizations will initiate efforts to work together on projects to enhance training of park rangers in horsemanship and educate recreational trail riders of all ages... |
 Howard addresses TWHNC controversy (12/07/07)
David Howard spoke up about former Celebration CEO Ron Thomas' resignation, responded to rumors, and answered questions about the walking horse industry as a whole during a presentation to Shelbyville Rotary Club on Thursday. Howard is the president of Walking Horse Report and the chairman of the Celebration board of directors... |
Howard, Bobo, McDonald named executive committee (12/05/07)
A three-member executive committee has been appointed by the Celebration Board of Directors to assist Interim CEO Virgil Johnson, according to board chairman David L. Howard. The committee will consist of board members Charles McDonald, John T. Bobo and Howard... |
 Green honored as 'Trainer of the Year' at banquet (12/04/07)
Shelbyville's Charlie Green was presented the prestigious title of Trainer of the Year during the Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA) Horse of the Year Awards Banquet on Saturday night. The banquet and presentations concluded the official year-end meetings for the association, during which Link Webb of Lewisburg was elected as WHTA president. ... |
 Walking Horse industry moves forward (12/03/07)
The Tennessee Walking Horse industry is seeing signs of daylight following a weekend of elections for Lewisburg-based Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA) and Shelbyville-based Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA)... |
Thomas fired as CEO of Celebration (11/29/07)
Ron Thomas is no longer the chief executive officer and show manager of the Celebration, according to a news release issued yesterday afternoon.
Thomas, speaking through his wife Cathy, told the Times-Gazette he was fired.... |
 Fire claims lives of 30 Spotted Saddle Horses (11/26/07)
A pre-dawn fire today took the lives of approximately 30 Spotted Saddle Horses. The blaze at Dickie Gardner Stables, Whitaker Road, was discovered after 3 a.m., officials said. "Some neighbors saw it and called us," Gardner said. "We (Gardner and his wife, Misti) got here and tried to get in but the firefighters wouldn't let us inside. They said it was already too far gone."... |
 Celebration hosts equine leaders (11/24/07)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration recently hosted representatives from several key equine and animal protection agencies in an effort to "open doors, initate dialogue, and forge positive partnerships," according to a news release. Participating agencies included United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), American Horse Protection Association (AHPA), and American Humane Association (AHA)... |
Celebration forms its own HIO (11/23/07)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has officially formed its own Horse Industry Organization (HIO), which has been certified by the United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Inspection Service (USDA APHIS). The name of the HIO will be S.H.O.W., based on the long-standing acronym of the S.H.O.W. intitiative: Sound horses, Honest judging, Objective inspections, and Winning fairly... |
 Celebration lights brighten holidays (11/20/07)
The lights will go on tonight, marking the renewal of a growing tradition in Shelbyville. "A Celebration Christmas" has begun and will run through the end of the year. "The holiday light show is our gift to the community for what they do for us all year," said Celebration CEO Ron Thomas. "They work so hard to help us make The Celebration such a terrific event, it seems right for us to add to their holiday season."... |
 Celebration holds appreciation dinner (11/13/07)
Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration held its annual appreciation dinner Monday night at the Blue Ribbon Circle Club. Nearly 200 people were on hand for the festivities, which honor full-time and seasonal employees and others who play a role during the world championship horse show... |
One TWHNC judge has 'questionable' polygraph (11/06/07)
As part of a plan announced prior to this year's Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, 16 key officials with the show -- management, judges and industry stewards -- agreed to submit themselves for polygraph testing in September. The show has announced that 15 of those people passed with flying colors; one had questionable reactions, which the unnamed subject -- a judge -- is blaming on stress because a threatening message was left in his driveway... |
Thirteen named to TWHNC Hall of Fame (10/31/07)
The board of directors of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has named 13 new members to the TWHNC Hall of Fame, including Bailey Little of Shelbyville. They will be inducted at a dinner in their honor on Feb. 23, 2008 in Calsonic Arena... |
 Witnesses say food was available for horses (10/10/07)
LEWISBURG -- A Chapel Hill-area man accused of cruelty to animals made arrangements to have his horses fed while he was out of state during last summer's heat when one of them died, according to witnesses he has ready for his trial. Marshall County General Sessions Court Judge Steve Bowden announced Tuesday that Derrick Ulmer's witnesses must return on Dec. 18, when he will preside over the case brought as a result of two citations issued by the sheriff's department... |
 Wind shift blows fire onto horse farm worker (10/03/07)
A longtime Shelbyville horse industry worker was seriously burned Tuesday afternoon when his clothing caught fire while burning brush. Ray Campbell, said to be in his 40s, was working at Samuel Acres, Highway 64 West. "The wind shifted and burned the fire toward Ray," horse trainer Dude Crowder, who extinguished the flames, said... |
Webb claims International for second year (10/01/07)
Link Webb earned the title of International Grand Champion Walking Horse for the second year in a row on Saturday night as the property of Michael and Ann Jones' entry, Santana's El Niño topped a star-studded class of five to wear the roses at the 2007 International Grand Championship Walking Horse Show in Murfreesboro... |
International show off to successful start (09/28/07)
Trainers from across the nation converged on Murfreesboro last night as the International Grand Championship Walking Horse Show Performance opened its doors for the 29th annual event. "We are thrilled with the response," said show manager Tommy Hall, Executive Director of the Walking Horse Owners' Association (WHOA), sponsoring organization of the show that runs through Saturday night at the Tennessee Miller Coliseum... |
Horse show to benefit Relay for Life (09/26/07)
A new horse show in town announced its judge and title sponsorship Monday. The Ellie Jackson Charity Horse Show will be held Oct. 13 at Bedford County Agriculture and Education Center on Midland Road and Don Milligan will mark the cards. All proceeds from the new show benefit the American Cancer Society... |
 Street named for World Grand Champion (09/24/07)
The World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking Horse is honored each year by having a street at the Historic Celebration Grounds named in his honor. The sign bearing the name "Master of Jazz Way" went up this week at the historic show grounds. All of the streets on the grounds of The Celebration are named for individuals or horses of significance in the history of the world championship horse show... |
 Gardner is a familar face in SSHBEA (09/24/07)
The opening of the Spotted Saddle Horse World Championships on Saturday saw many familiar faces in and around center ring. One of those was Dickie Gardner, Trainer of the Year in 1999 and again in 2004, who is this year's president of the Professional Spotted Saddle Horse Trainers' Association. He's also a board member of SSHBEA... |
 SSHBEA show starts Saturday (09/18/07)
The Spotted Saddle Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association's (SSHBEA) World Championship is just days away. Opening on Saturday evening at 6, the show will crown a new SSHBEA World Grand Champion the following Saturday night at Calsonic Arena. Tickets for the seven night event are still available at the SSHBEA office for $5. Children under 6 are admitted free of charge... |
International show planned next week (09/17/07)
The 29th annual International Walking Horse Grand Championship horse show will open its doors for performance horse competition at the Tennessee Miller Coliseum in Murfreesboro on Sept. 27. The show, managed by Walking Horse Owners Association (WHOA) Executive Director Tommy Hall, was considered a huge success last year. Hall expects the same this year... |
 2007 Celebration called a success (09/14/07)
Celebration CEO Ron Thomas released the show manager's report for the 2007 World Grand Championship event yesterday showing a positive view of the Walking Horse industry's largest and most promenient show. "It was rewarding this year to see that 66 percent of the horses that entered (the competition) actually came to the show ring," Thomas said. "This figure is an improvement over the 60 percent that showed in 2006."... |
 Owners, trainer celebrate Celebration win (09/04/07)
Trainer Jimmy McConnell. left, and his wife Gayle joined owners Lee Wall and Mike McGartland following the successful conclusion of 69th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration for the Master of Jazz team on Saturday night. The black roan stallion topped 12 entries to achieve the World Grand Champion title that marked McConnell's second WGC in three years having won in 2004 on Black Night Shade. ... |
 Master of Jazz wins World Grand Championship (09/01/07)
Master of Jazz and trainer Jimmy McConnell were crowned World Grand Champions of the 69th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration on Saturday night on the historic show grounds. Lee Wall of Jackson, Miss., and Mike McGartland of Ft. Worth, Texas are the owners of the aged black roan stallion that stands over 16 hands.... |
 Jose's All Pro takes acclaim on Friday (09/01/07)
If officials of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration desired the world to stand up and take notice, Bill Bobo and Jose's All Pro were the ambassadors on Friday night as they were crowned Junior World Grand Champions.
In a field of eight strong contenders who previously qualified for competition in the class, a workout of seven found Bobo accumulating a following as his own with each lap the horses made.... |
 O'Brien wins Amateur Show Pleasure title (08/31/07)
Over 18,000 Tennessee Walking Horse fans were in attendance for the first night of all championship competitions on Thursday as the 69th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration prepares to crown the 2007 World Grand Champion on Saturday night as a grand finalé of the 11-day, 10-night event... |
Web readers predict Rowdy Rev as WGC (08/31/07)
Readers of the Times-Gazette web site, t-g.com, who participated in a non-scientific poll this week predict Rowdy Rev and trainer Bill Bobo will win this year's World Grand Championship. The poll asked, "Which horse will be the next World Grand Champion?" and listed seven top finishers from last Saturday's aged stallion division, with an eighth option for "other." There were 213 votes cast, breaking down as follows:... |
 Championship weekend starts tonight (08/30/07)
Championship weekend begins tonight in the big oval on the historic Celebration show grounds but Wednesday night, in the final class of preliminary competitions, the crowd of more 12,000 voiced their opinions loudly as favored contender after contender walked through the entry gates, vying for a world title... |
 Nipper captures equine images (08/30/07)
Hailing from East Tennessee, artist Billie Nipper is the type of friend one instantly warms to, regardless of where you're heading or where you've been. Her warm personality and sweet sense of humor is a blessing to tired bodies in need of a quiet touch of humanity... |
'When you walked the ground shook' (08/29/07)
Headed into the final leg of competitions at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, the horse community at large -- trainers, owners, spectators and officials -- should be proud of this breed and what has been accomplished during this past year... |
 Celebration rolls on in style (08/29/07)
"Success" is a word being heard on the historic show grounds of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration as the show prepares to head into the weekend's championship classes. Tuesday night marked another rousing display of the word as 252 entries made their way down the entry shoot to show before a crowd that topped 10,000 in attendance. Thirteen classes filled the night's program that, by comparison of a one-night event's 25 classes, made the classes full of championship competition... |
 Red, white and blue shown to support TWHNC (08/29/07)
Though only a few days remain in the schedule of the 69th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC), Bedford County Mayor Eugene Ray is calling for a show of support for the Walking Horse industry by dressing the county in red, white and blue bows and streamers... |
Horses in cruelty case released to rescue group (08/29/07)
A soldier stationed at Smyrna has relinquished ownership of his horses to an animal rescue group and his preliminary hearing on animal cruelty charges in Marshall County General Sessions Court was rescheduled yesterday until Oct. 9, the man's defense attorney said... |
 Challenge trophies fall at Monday show (08/28/07)
Unanimous decisions and retiring challenge trophies were the order of the day as the 69th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration continued on Monday night. Over 9,760 spectators, the third largest Monday night in the history of the show, were on hand for the competitions which featured large classes and workouts... |
 The pause that refreshes horse show visitors (08/27/07)
Concessions come in all shapes, sizes, tastes and caloric intake at the 69h annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration. Those working behind the stands, often behind the scene, are faces of Bedford County neighbors, willing to lend a hand. At the end of the day, when proceeds are counted and bills are paid, according to Roy Bartlette of the American Legion booth, the fun really begins... |
 Weekend classes prove successful (08/27/07)
Despite muggy temperatures and sporadic rain showers, a weekend of winning was the theme at the 69th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration.
As traditional as a full moon on a late August night, the excitement of the first Saturday night of competition drew a large crowd into Shelbyville. The final classes of the evening were the expectation and from the cheers of the 15,000-plus crowd, they were not disappointed.... |
 Drawing leads to success for Lutes (08/25/07)
Larry Lutes, II of Sikeston, Mo., never intended to spend his life as an artist. It just happened. However, he isn't regretting his talent. In fact, he's displaying it today at World Champion Horse Equipment for all to see. "I enjoyed roping and riding," the father of one said, looking back on his younger years. "I really enjoy horses but I had a terrible accident that prevents me from doing much of that now... |
 Friday Celebration shortened by weather (08/25/07)
On Friday night, Bedford County got of a double-dose of blessings as rains poured into the drought-stricken area. Regardless of the weather, the horses came as well. At the opening ceremonies, already a wet track and dripping crowd stood for recognition of the majesty and beauty of Counterfeit Dollar and Bud Seaton displaying the nation's color... |
 State health officials urge caution (08/24/07)
As the heat wave continues, state Health Commissioner Susan R. Cooper encourages Tennesseans to stay cautious; meanwhile, Bedford County Emergency Medical Services reported only one heat-related complaint during the first night of the Celebration on Thursday... |
 Rawhide & Dusty to entertain TWHNC crowd (08/24/07)
Celebration audiences are in for a treat on Friday and Saturday nights during the show when Rawhide and Dusty, a cowboy team of horse and rider, gallop into the big oval for an exhibition that will have folks gasping with excitement. "This isn't just another performance. This is, well, incredible to see," said Howard Roberts, longtime Walking Horse judge and trainer... |
 Victoria's Secret a unanimous 3-Year-Old Mare winner (08/24/07)
Old habits are not easily forgotten; neither are old friends and stomping grounds as was evident Thursday night as fans of the Tennessee Walking Horse arrived in droves to view the opening night of the 69th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration held on the historic show grounds, underneath the twinkling stars and humid skies of late August... |
 Halle Berry wins as TWHNC kicks off (08/23/07)
Despite the hottest temperatures in 110 years, the 69th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration opened its doors Wednesday morning for the first of many competitions to be held inside the Calsonic Arena on the historic horse show grounds... |
 Hot weather, low numbers for Futurity (08/23/07)
Though the night was hot, the entries were light at the National Futurity on Wednesday night. Perhaps the show was evidence of the changes within the executive division and many rule changes the sponsoring organization, the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA), has made throughout the year... |
You can't argue with the figures (08/22/07)
Comedy Central's hilarious TV program "The Colbert Report" stars Stephen Colbert in a parody of some well-known political pundits. On his very first night on the air, Colbert coined a word that has since entered the lexicon: "truthiness." It's a word referring to the type of statement that seems true to the person saying it, regardless of the facts, and usually implies that the writer or speaker doesn't particularly want to be disturbed by the facts, just like the character Colbert portrays so brilliantly on his show.. ... |
It's horse show time again (08/22/07)
OK, OK! I know, it's horse show time in Shelbyville. With that comes the disparaging remarks about flies, traffic jams, and other inconveniences from the general public of Bedford County. There are parents who don't want children to be out of school. That causes an inconvenience for them because of child care... |
 Honey Princess to visit Celebration (08/22/07)
For many visitors and fans of the Tennessee Walking Horse, the calendar marks an exciting day today as the 69th annual Celebration opens its gates for competition. It is a day as sweet as honey. The show draws horses and fans, media and even other horse breeds from around the world. But on Aug. 27, it will also draw a the Honey Princess... |
'Free The Breeders' hopes for industry unity (08/21/07)
"Free the Breeders" is a new organization on the scene in the Walking Horse world. However, that doesn't mean the group of hard-working individuals are strangers to the industry. "When we began the group," said spokesperson Joni Jenné, "people were skeptical at first. But once we explained our platform, the memberships began to grow."... |
 Celebration makes huge financial impact (08/20/07)
Like an old family friend, the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC) has been with Shelbyville since 1939, so long that many can't remember there being a time when there wasn't a horse show. If there is one segment of the county's business community that has its finger on the pulse of Bedford County's economic health, it is the real estate market. ... |
Celebration exhibitors cope with hot weather (08/20/07)
Howard Hamilton watched the early morning rays of the sun rise over The Celebration grounds as he exercised horses. "I told the boys that we had to get an early start," he said. "It's just too hot. But, on the other hand, it doesn't look like the heat is going to leave, so they have to be conditioned for the show. It'll be hot for those classes too."... |
 What if the horses didn't come? (08/18/07)
Editor's Note: The following article is being reprinted due to the many requests received. Like the aftermath of a cataclysmic disaster, the ghosts of yesterday's colorful past swept up and down Madison Street one hot August day. Instead of a street crowded with tourists and horse trailers, emptiness crowded the silence. Businesses were closed. Houses stood empty. Signs swung on rusty nails in the humid breeze... |
 Pritchet named TWHNC Queen (08/14/07)
Ashley Pritchet of Hendersonville was named Miss TWHNC Queen on Saturday night. The event, sponsored by the Shelbyville Jaycees, is a part of the yearly pageantry of The Celebration where the queen and her court will be presented on Aug. 24. First runner-up of the event was Emily Margaret Hobbs of McMinnville. ... |
Futurity won't be a qualifier for Celebration events (08/14/07)
Though it won't be managed by the Celebration for the first time in 20-plus years, the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA) will again host its National Futurity competition at Calsonic Arena on Aug. 23 at 5:30 p.m... |
 Celebration changes in place (08/13/07)
Changes to ensure the credibility and security of the show will be in place on Aug. 23 when the 69th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC) opens the gates. According to Celebration CEO Ron Thomas, virtually every major group within the Walking Horse industry and outside organizations such as the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), and the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS), has been contacted and consulted by the Celebration board to gain knowledge regarding policies designed to ensure to the protection of the horses shown during the show.. ... |
 Work toward Celebration underway (08/11/07)
The stage is set and the players will soon be gathering for the 69th annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC). Many participants took time this weekend to prepare barns on the grounds as they work in preparation for the show. Cleaning, washing and even planting flowers were on tap around the show grounds as The Celebration staff burned the midnight oil getting entries listed and programs ready for printing... |
 Trainers donate food for abandoned horses (08/10/07)
Food is on the way to 16 horses rescued on a Lewisburg farm earlier this week thanks to the efforts of the Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA). The horses, whose breeding is not known, were moved by the members of a local rescue shelter to Gallatin's Volunteer Equine Advocates... |
Keep your horses safe from high heat (08/08/07)
There is no doubt that Bedford County is horse country. As temperatures soar, many people may know to take care of themselves and pets but often don't consider what variables calculate together to equal extreme heat conditions for horses as well. According to State Health Commissioner Susan R. Cooper, MSN, RN, temperatures at or near 100 degrees demand people to take extra caution... |
 Success for traditional August one-night shows (08/06/07)
Approximately 500 Walking Horse contenders vied for honors in last week's shows in Fayetteville, Belfast and Wartrace. With a 99.8 percent compliance rate in the inspection shed under the scrutiny of both the Designated Qualified Persons (DQP) inspectors and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Veterinary Medical Officers (VMO), Walking Horse enthusiasts declared the weekend a success... |
 Pistol claims Splash Classic; Fayetteville entries down (08/03/07)
He's Packin' a Pistol and Jeff Hatcher were a familiar team in the winner's circle on Wednesday night at the Pre-Celebration Splash Classic, a new show for an audience of Shelbyville's Walking Horse enthusiasts. Jerry Woodlee judged the event, held at the Bedford County Ag Center. It kicked off a long weekend of horse shows... |
 Wartrace Horse Show starts its second hundred years (08/02/07)
For Walking Horse enthusiasts, the calendar is just a reminder of horse show dates. The squares containing the numbers most call "dates" are merely spaces to scribble in a name of a show. More than 100 years of those calendars have contained the word "Wartrace" written in bold letters on the first Saturday box of August. ... |
Horse show action marches on as August nears (07/30/07)
Though The Celebration is still almost a month away, championship caliber competition once again invaded the middle Tennessee area this weekend. Beginning with Dickson County Horse Show and following through to the Red Carpet Horse Show in Pulaski on Saturday night, contenders listed among "those who will vie" were gathering support among the fans and claiming titles to add to their lengthy resumes... |
Fair horse show will be held Friday (07/26/07)
One of the highlights of the Bedford County Fair is, without doubt, also the essence of a country county fair. The animals on exhibit, in competition and in blue ribbons, are the stars of the show. Such will be the case on Friday night as the All Pleasure Horse Show rolls out the red carpet for entries in 24 classes of competition... |
 Celebration time (07/25/07)
The 69th Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration is now underway in Shelbyville. Look for complete coverage in every issue of the Times-Gazette, and don't miss our special feature-packed Souvenir Edition this Friday. Here are some helpful links for visitors and locals alike... |
Pistol hits a bullseye in Lynchburg (07/24/07)
Jeff Hatcher and I'm Packin' A Pistol didn't exactly ride off into the sunset as the night was inky black when the titles were announced, but the duo once again had the crowd cheering as the Charlene Gibson-supported pair collected yet another prestigious hoofprint on their ladder of success, leading them closer to the Big Oval of Celebration competition... |
 Box seat tickets are in the mail (07/21/07)
For many, going to the mailbox can be a mundane ritual. Put the payment in the box, and before you know it, another bill appears to take its place. But, on one special day in July, many residents, both far and near, will find a plain brown wrapped package in their box. Opening it will reveal the opportunity for days and nights of enjoyment, fellowship and anticipated results... |
 Farrar to announce morning classes (07/20/07)
The familiar voice of hometown announcer Mark Farrar, Jr. will call the morning classes at this year's Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, according to Celebration CEO Ron Thomas. Farrar, a native and resident of Flat Creek, has been the primary announcer for the National Trainers' Show for many years in Calsonic Arena. ... |
TWHNC signs with horse show commission (07/19/07)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC) officially signed papers yesterday at noon, affiliating with the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) for the 2007 World Championship event. "This is a great step for this indistry," said NHSC Chairman Wink Groover. "After all, the NHSC is the largest Horse Industry Organization (HIO), period, in the industry. We are thrilled with the decision and to have them aboard."... |
 TWHNC included in book of must-see sights (07/17/07)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration is listed among the top 1,000 places to see in North America, according to a best-selling author and travel writer. Travel writer and author Patricia Schultz revolutionized the way we think about travel with her runaway New York Times bestseller 1,000 Places to See Before You Die. Now she turns her sharp eye to our own continent with 1,000 Places to See in the USA and Canada Before You Die... |
Hot summer competition in Cornersville (07/16/07)
The Cornersville Horse Show hosted a hot show on Friday night that didn't just have to due with the mid-July temperatures. Jennifer Bingham Davis judged the 30 classes of competition that were well-filled with talented contenders. The Cornersville shows falls mid-way in the summer calendar that leads to Belfast, Pulaski, Wartrace, International Flat Shod and then, The Celebration... |
Putting the celebrating back in the Celebration (07/14/07)
Throughout this week, I have been abundantly blessed to enjoy the Great Celebration Mule and Donkey Show. What a wonderful event! The people are friendly and sociable, with that ole-fashioned quality to is so often missed when people participate in something that they enjoy but take so seriously... |
 Community cornerstone Tilford dies (07/13/07)
Shelbyville native, World War II veteran, Director Emeritus of The Celebration Board of Directors, Webb School graduate and board of directors member, Rotary Club Paul Harris Fellow, Celebration Hall of Fame member and county visionary Henry Cannon Tilford, Jr., died yesterday at his home after an extended illness. He was 90... |
 Mule, donkey fans treated to watermelon (07/13/07)
They came on foot, in the back of trucks, on four-wheelers, golf carts and by mule. Hundreds of mule and donkey enthusiasts, with smiles that stretched miles and warm greeting to friends and would be friends, came to enjoy the watermelon cutting under the Celebration Pavilion yesterday... |
Mule, donkey fans treated to watermelon (07/13/07)
They came on foot, in the back of trucks, on four-wheelers, golf carts and by mule. Hundreds of mule and donkey enthusiasts, with smiles that stretched miles and warm greeting to friends and would be friends, came to enjoy the watermelon cutting under the Celebration Pavilion yesterday... |
 Mules, more arrive for annual show (07/12/07)
With the feel of an ole-fashioned social gathering, the fields, stalls, grounds and arenas were filling quickly Wednesday as the Great Celebration Mule and Donkey Show participants arrived in Shelbyville to participate at the second largest competition of its kind in the nation... |
Judges announced for 69th Celebration (07/11/07)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (The Celebration, TWHNC) announced the judges for the 69th Annual World Grand Championship event. According to Celebration CEO Ron Thomas, this is a highly qualified panel. Marking the cards this year will be Mike Carpenter, Sam Sorrell, Allen Forman, Justin Jenné and Ronnie Spears... |
Trainers, NHSC vote to sign Operating Plan (07/10/07)
In a decision that was nothing less than history-making, the Walking Horse Trainers Association (WHTA) voted yesterday to sign the 2007-2009 United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Operating Plan. The National Horse Show Commission (NHSC), made up of representatives of the WHTA A and the Walking Horse Owners' Association (WHOA), concurred with the vote of the Trainers, accepting the Plan with the proposed changes in a 7-1 decision in a separate meeting... |
 Once a joke, mules are serious business for Moore (07/10/07)
Bill Moore of Shelbyville imagines if his grandfather knew how he was making his living these days, he would be rolling over in his grave. In fact, if time rolled back 30 or so years, and Moore was told what he would be doing today, he likely wouldn't believe it either... |
 Hatcher, Pistol add another notch (07/09/07)
Jeff Hatcher and I'm Packin' A Pistol added another championship title to their growing list of 2007 Walking Horse championship credentials on Saturday night as the Woodbury Walking Horse Show came to a successful conclusion. Charlene Gibson is the owner of the horse that also claimed the National Trainers' Show title among his spring victories... |
 Money Tree Classic a success (07/09/07)
The Walking Horse Trainers' Auxiliary hosted the tremendously successful 23rd Annual Money Tree Classic on Thursday. On a perfect summer evening, approximately 3,000 spectators gathered at the Bedford County Agricultural Center to watch 293 entries compete in what will certainly be one of the largest one-night horse shows this season... |
Pistol, Hatcher add another notch (07/09/07)
Jeff Hatcher and I'm Packin' A Pistol added another championship title to their growing list of 2007 Walking Horse championship credentials on Saturday night as the Woodbury Walking Horse Show came to a successful conclusion. Charlene Gibson is the owner of the horse that also claimed the National Trainers' Show title among his spring victories... |
 Great Celebration Mule, Donkey Show nears (07/07/07)
While Shelbyville is known for horses, the Celebration presents a horse of a different, well, kind, beginning Thursday as the 16th annual Great Celebration Mule and Donkey Show hits the historic show grounds. Contenders from across the country representing 25 states will arrive in the county early this week, loaded with quality contenders and competitive natures, making the Great Celebration show the second largest event of its kind in the nation... |
Rowdy Rev, Bobo champs on 4th (07/06/07)
Repeating the stake win from last year, Rowdy Rev and Bill Bobo claimed top honors on Wednesday night at the Bethesda Fourth of July Walking Horse Show. Owned by Bill Harlin of Franklin's Harlinsdale Farms, Rowdy Rev is in his second year as an aged stallion with wins on his 2007 record that includes the Celebration Spring Fun Show and Columbia's Walking in the Park stake titles. ... |
Local horses win in Murfreesboro show (06/25/07)
As predictable as sunshine and heat in Tennessee during the summer, the Murfreesboro Exchange Club hosted fans of the Walking Horse industry on Saturday with an exciting turnout. Trailer after trailer of enthusiasts attended the show, many from just across the neighboring county line... |
Blue Diamond takes blue ribbon at FFA show (06/18/07)
Eddie Guthrie judged the 26 classes of competition at Thursday night's Bedford FFA Horse Show. Held at the Ag Center, the show kicked off a weekend of competition that was as hot as the weather. Link Webb and The Blue Diamond claimed the show's Open Stake title for Holland and King. Herbert Derickson was reserve aboard Dr. and Mrs. John Brundige's Solar Generated. Third in the class was Robbie Black aboard Santana's Bad Boy for Bill Sloane... |
 Liberty Lions horse show called a success (06/18/07)
Storm clouds loomed on the horizon Friday night, but the 8th annual Liberty Lions Club Walking Horse Show at the Agricultural Extension Center was a dazzling success. Despite the uncertain forecast, about 1,000 fans turned out Friday night to watch 250 entries compete in 32 classes... |
 Futurity to remain at Celebration Grounds (06/16/07)
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC) and Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders and Exhibitors Association (TWHBEA) reached an agreement that the National Futurity, affiliated with the TWHBEA Horse Industry Organization (HIO), will be held at Calsonic Arena on August 22... |
 Liberty Lions horse show set Friday (06/13/07)
With the weekend right around the corner, that can only mean one thing for many Bedford County residents: horse show time. The Liberty Lions Club presents its 8th annual Walking Horse show beginning 6:30 p.m. Friday at Bedford County Agriculture and Education Center. Admission is $5 for adults with children under 6 years old admitted free... |
 Horse whisperer will highlight county fair (06/11/07)
Shelbyville's Sam Powell is renown in horse circles around the world. Known by many as the Horse Whisperer, his abilities in working with the equine world will be demonstrated to audiences during this year's Bedford County Fair. As head of Sam Powell Equine Consulting Services, Powell daily introduces horse owners to his system of non-violent and effective training. ... |
Limited number of boxes available (06/09/07)
One of the most prized pieces of real estate in Bedford County is only about eight-feet square: a box of seats at The Celebration. Each year, several boxes are turned in for 'one year only' sales. This normally occurs when the box holder is not able to make it to The Celebration that particular year due to an illness, graduation, wedding, or other family event. This year is no differentthere are several boxes available for purchase for 2007... |
Callaway, PGA take blue in Columbia (06/04/07)
Bedford County horse enthusiasts invaded the garden city of Columbia over the weekend, capturing top honors in many divisions of Walking Horse competition. Judges for the Columbia Spring Jubilee came from far and wide to score the cards. Jamie Bradshaw, Chris Messick and Brandye Mills awarded over 300 honors in 55 classes during the two-day event... |
NHSC offer to TWHNC being considered (06/02/07)
Opportunities for three persons selected by Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC) to serve the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) in honorary positions is still under study, according to Celebration Board Chairman David Howard. A letter released by the NHSC invited Celebration officials to appoint representatives "to sit in and participate in NHSC discussions each month for the remainder of the year."... |
Local riders win at Columbia Spring Jubilee (06/02/07)
Embracing the cloudy evening and chance of rain showers throughout the middle Tennessee area, horse show enthusiasts headed for Columbia on Friday night to kick off the two-day Columbia Spring Jubilee. For decades the show has followed the Spring Fun Show. There was a brief lull in that tradition when the show changed dates, but not gathering the out-of-state traffic as it was accustomed, the show committee soon returned to the first weekend after Memorial Day... |
Celebration to join NHSC (06/01/07)
The National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) and the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration are joining forces to formulate and continue to provide a strong platform for the Walking Horse industry. Wink Groover, president of NHSC, outlined by letter the offer of three honorary positions for Celebration members, selected by the TWHNC Association, to serve on the NHSC... |
 Rowdy Rev caps off successful Fun Show (05/29/07)
Rowdy Rev and Bill Bobo had the crowd singing praises and the judges unanimously joining in, capturing the 37th Annual Spring Fun Show Aged Stallion championship colors for Bill Harlin of Franklin.
Joe Cotton and The Golden Sovereign were second for the Dan McSwaim family and I'm Packin' A Pistol and Jeff Hatcher were third for Charlene Gibson.... |
 Jazz King strikes the right chord at Fun Show (05/26/07)
Entries continued to be high at Friday night's edition of the Spring Fun Show, held each Memorial Day weekend at Calsonic Arena on the historic Celebration grounds. Sponsored by The Celebration, the event has been a wealth of competition and a source of entertainment for those present... |
 Opening night of Fun Show a success (05/25/07)
The opening musical chords from Larry Bright's organ announced the opening moments of the 37th Annual Spring Fun on Thursday night. The music, like the entries that filled the Calsonic Arena, was sweet music to the Walking Horse enthusiast's ears. Over 200 entries answered the class calls during the 16 classes of competition. ... |
Open the book and enjoy the show! (05/23/07)
For those who believe in the old adage "don't judge a book by its cover," this weekend is a perfect time to show your true colors. Over the past few months, it has been my endeavor to prove the value of the Walking Horse industry to the community. In articles run in late April, I attempted to hit readers where it would most likely hurt: the pocketbook... |
 Fun Show puts spotlight on new plan (05/24/07)
Winston Churchill once said, " You know you will never get to the end of the journey. But this, far from discouraging, only adds to the joy and glory of the climb." The Walking Horse industry stands on the precipe of success but rather than screaming of the dangling victory with resolutions regarding the Operating Plan presented to Horse Industry Organizations (HIO) by the federal goverment officals of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), most trainers and owners are quietly going about business as usual, making changes that affect each tomorrow. ... |
Fun Show opens Thursday (05/22/07)
The horses are coming! The Celebration opens its historic gates on Thursday night to welcome the 37th annual Spring Fun Show. Begun as a fund raiser for a Parent-Teacher Association (PTA), the show has grown over the years to be one of the most prestigious events of the early Tennessee Walking Horse competition season. ... |
Horse show fun this weekend (05/18/07)
The Petersburg Lions Club rolls out the welcome mat tonight for their second edition of its Walking Horse showcase. Held at the Lions Club Park, the show begins at 6:30 p.m. with an admission fee of $5. Children under 10 are free. A stick horse class will kick off the events for judge Rob Cornelius of Rogersville, Ala. Amateur, youth and professional classes of competition line the 28 class roster... |
State expects strong summer tourism season (05/18/07)
An elderhostel group from Sugar Tours in West Dover, Vt., toured Waterfall Farms and the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration grounds on Thursday, on their way to downtown Lynchburg and a meal at Miss Mary Bobo's Boarding House. Diane Murray of Tennessee's Backroads Heritage, a tourism group promoting this area, traveled with the group. Murray became director of Tennessee's Backroads this year after retiring from the state's tourism development program... |
 NHSC votes for operating plan (05/16/07)
The National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) voted unanimously by conference call to accept the proposed operating plan for horse show inspections as it has been amended. The Operating Plan is the set of governing rules, established by the Horse Protection Act through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). ... |
Local horses find success in Gallatin (05/14/07)
One trailer after another loaded with Walking Horses left Bedford County on Saturday afternoon. Their destination: Gallatin Lions Club Horse Show. On the heels of the SCHS Band Show on Friday night, the weekend was deemed a rousing success by trainers... |
 Despite the rain, the horses came (05/12/07)
Despite the much-needed rain that fell in Bedford County on Friday night, Central High School Band members and boosters were whistling "Dixie" with the outcome of the walking horse show they sponsored at Bedford County Agriculture and Education Center... |
Discussion of horse operating plan continues (05/09/07)
Horse industry organization (HIO) representatives and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) met in Washington, DC, Monday to discuss amendments relating to the wording of the Operating Plan 2007-2009. Three proposed changes to the current wording were made. These amendments are to be discussed by the organizations within the Walking Horse industry represented at the meeting. According to sources for the Times-Gazette, the meeting was considered successful by all those in attendance... |
 Central High band hosts benefit horse show (05/08/07)
With summer sun and long, warm evenings come lightning bugs, gathering friends and, in Bedford County, horse shows. This weekend is no exception to that rule as the Shelbyville Central High School Band hosts its third rendition of its Walking Horse competition... |
 SSHBEA hosts spring show (05/03/07)
Spring has sprung and colors are coming out all over including inside the Calsonic Arena on the historic Celebration show grounds as Spotted Saddle Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (SSHBEA) hosts the Spring Show this Thursday-Saturday. The show begins nightly at 6:30 with competitions for spotted horses in lite shod, trail pleasure, juvenile, open and amateur divisions. ... |
TWHNC takes tourism honor again (05/02/07)
For the 19th time in 20 years, The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has been given recognition as one of the top twenty events in the Southeast Tourism Society. Put on the list for the first time in 1988, the show has drawn continuous nominations for the honor. To be nominated, the event must have a minimum of 1,000 in attendance. The list is published by the Society quarterly throughout the U.S., reaching millions of readers... |
Celebration plans to work with NHSC (04/26/07)
Taking bold steps into the business that keeps them ticking, Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC, The Celebration) announced Wednesday their intentions to work with the Walking Horse Trainers Association (WHTA) and the Walking Horse Owners' Association (WHOA) in strengthening and/or restructuring the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC), the regulatory hub of the Walking Horse breed... |
Thank goodness, the horses do come (04/21/07)
Editor's note: Last in a series reviewing the Walking Horse industry and its significance in the community. This series has reviewed the industry's impact in Bedford County and all of Middle Tennessee and the steps leaders are taking in seeking solutions to problems within the industry... |
 Celebration makes massive financial impact (04/20/07)
Like an old family friend, the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC) has been with Shelbyville since 1939, so long that many can't remember there being a time when there wasn't a horse show. The longevity of the show makes it difficult to determine the exact tax impact that the annual event has on this community, according to Shelbyville Mayor Geneva Smith... |
FOSH on attack against action devices (04/19/07)
Editor's note: Continuation in a series by the Times-Gazette covering issues related to the walking horse industry. Horses in competitive events, specifically the walking horse, is a special concern of Friends of Sound Houses, Inc. (FOSH). Spokesmen for the organization stress the effort of promoting "sound" naturally gaited horses... |
Quarter Horse show comes to Calsonic Arena (04/19/07)
The Spring Classic, a quarter horse show sanctioned by the American Quarter Horse Association, will be held Friday through Sunday in Calsonic Arena. Action begins at 9 a.m. each day, and there's no charge for spectator admission. AQHA shows test horses' abilities in competitive events. Some of those, as described by the AQHA web site, include:... |
NHSC puts strict penalties on violators (04/19/07)
Editor's note: Continuation in a series of stories regarding the walking horse industry. Every action has a reaction! Mothers across the world have taught this lesson for years and for most children, the idea has set a standard of obedience and the learned lesson of choosing between right and wrong. Repercussions for those straying from those standards are often costly and life altering... |
Horse industry boosts real estate market (04/18/07)
Editor's note: Fourth in a series of stories studying the walking horse industry and its significance in this community. This series is reviewing the industry's impact in Bedford County and all of Middle Tennessee and the steps leaders are taking in seeking solutions to problems within the industry.... |
Trainers respond to PETA allegations (04/17/07)
Responses have been outpouring throughout the Tennessee Walking Horse regarding statements publicly made by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) spokesperson Erin Edwards... |
Trainers unite against threats to industry (04/17/07)
Editor's Note: Third in a series of stories studying the walking horse industry and its significance in this community. This series will review the industry's impact in Bedford County and all of Middle Tennessee and the steps leaders are taking in seeking solutions to problems within the industry.... |
PETA takes hard-line stance on horses (04/16/07)
Editor's note: Second in a series of stories studying the walking horse industry and its significance to this community. This series will review the industry's impact in Bedford County and all of Middle Tennessee and the steps leaders are taking in seeking solutions to problems within the industry.... |
Civic clubs lean heavily on horse show income (04/14/07)
Editor's note: First in a series of stories studying the walking horse industry and its significance to this community. This series will review the industry's impact in Bedford County and all of Middle Tennessee and the steps leaders are taking in seeking solutions to problems within the industry.... |
 What if the horses didn't come? (04/14/07)
It hadn't even been a year since the industry closed but the impact was felt all across the area. Residents had been warned of the economic domino effect it would have but no one listened because no one actually believe there could possibly come a day when the gates to The Celebration didn't swing open to welcome contenders and visitors alike onto the historic show grounds.... |
County will give $25K to Celebration (04/12/07)
Bedford County Board of Commissioners voted 17-1 Tuesday night to give $25,000 to the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration as a show of support for the walking horse industry. The county's contribution follows a $25,000 contribution by the City of Shelbyville to the Walking Horse Trainers Association for its annual spring show... |
Weather, politics affect horse show season (04/10/07)
Historically, the first weekend in April is sunny and warm. Historically, the first weekend in April, at least for nearly two decades, has played host in the Tennessee Walking Horse industry to the Walking Horse Owners' Association (WHOA) Kiwanis Spring Horse Show in Murfreesboro... |
 Derickson brings home 4-H title (04/03/07)
Warm night air and the heavy smell of spring blossoms ushered in the first one-night show of Shelbyville's Walking Horse season as Bedford County 4-H hosted the Harvest Festival Saturday, usually held in October. The Bedford County Ag Center was the backdrop of the 26 classes of Walking Horse contenders offered to the appreciative crowd... |
 State 4-Hers honor Celebration (03/30/07)
NASHVILLE -- The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration was inducted into the Diamond Clover Society Hall of Fame by the Tennessee 4-H Club Foundation during the 60th Tennessee 4-H Congress in Nashville. The award was presented in recognition of The Celebration's role as host of the Tennessee State 4-H Horse Show since 1984... |
Thomas commends trainers on show (03/28/07)
The National Trainers Show drew to a close on Saturday below records of the past in the entry field, but in the division of interest, the show is still playing in conversations and thoughts of Walking Horse enthusiasts. The event, hosted by the Walking Horse Trainers Association (WHTA), has traditionally been hailed as the season opener for the competitive breed although several shows south of Shelbyville have held various competitions since February... |
 Groover pleased with WHTA show (03/27/07)
With this year's National Trainers Show successfully concluded, Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA) President Wink Groover is headed home to Longview, Texas, with a mixture of relief and accomplishment. "I'm just overwhelmed," he said Monday. ... |
Jury: horse owner owes trainer (03/27/07)
A Lewisburg Highway horse farm owner must pay his debt to a trainer because of a Bedford County Circuit Court jury verdict on Monday when the owner failed to persuade the jury he didn't owe money by claiming a contract was void when soring was allegedly used to train his horse... |
 Trainers Show ends on positive note (03/26/07)
At 5:45 Saturday evening, the announcement came across the barn intercom in the voice of National Trainers' Show Co-chairman Benny Johnson: "The officials of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) have told me they are pleased with the way the show is running. ... |
Owner claims his horse was sored (03/26/07)
Jury selection was scheduled to begin this morning for a civil trial in a dispute between a horse trainer and a horse owner who says the trainer sored his horse, according to public documents. The trial in Bedford County Circuit Court is between Bill Reinhart, owner of a horse barn and farm on Highway 64, and Eddie Tuck of Eden, N.C., a horse trainer who had an oral agreement with Reinhart, records show... |
Horse show enforcement: A primer (03/24/07)
Many fans of the walking horse industry continue to watch in dismay as the overall image of the breed is tarnished with rumors, accusations and negotiations. Many are asking to know what's all the fuss about when it comes to the smooth glide ride that accentuates the gait of the walking horse... |
 Celebration, city support Trainers Show (03/23/07)
The industry that has made the city of Shelbyville known worldwide as the "Walking Horse Capital of the World" announced that the City of Shelbyville has shown its support for the National Trainers' Show in a big way. Walking Horse Trainers' Association Director Benny Johnson joined Celebration CEO Ron Thomas and Shelbyville City Manager Ed Craig on the Celebration Grounds to accept a sponsorship check totaling $30,000 from The Celebration and the City of Shelbyville for their sponsorship of the event.. ... |
Trainers Show continues upbeat performance (03/23/07)
There's no business like show business! Ethel Merman belted the message out for years on the Broadway stage and on the silver screen. Thursday night more than a few contenders at the National Trainers' Show had reason to sing along. The show, sponsored by the Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA), rolled out the red carpet for officials of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as well as spectators from across the nation to observe classes filled with eager competitors... |
 Trainers Show off to a good start (03/22/07)
One hundred sixty-five entries heralded in the new show season on Wednesday night as the National Trainers Show opened its doors for Walking Horse competition. The 20 classes offered during the evening's competition ranged in variety from Model Plantation to Fine Harness to Pro/Am... |
Horses return to ring at Trainers' Show (03/21/07)
The Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA) kicks off a new season of competition this week with the 39th annual National Trainers Show. Held on the historic Celebration show grounds' Calsonic Arena, the show offers over 75 classes of Walking Horse competition... |
Government plan cracks down on abuse (03/09/07)
NASHVILLE (AP) -- The U.S. Department of Agriculture has toughened regulations to stem persistent abuse of Tennessee walking horses by keeping trainers and owners who violate the rules out of shows and sales. The Humane Society of the United States says the new two-year plan announced this month closes a loophole that's allowed some repeat abusers to continue showing and selling prized walking horses... |
NHSC doesn't sign USDA Operating Plan (03/01/07)
Despite a pledge to work with and exceed the standards required, the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) voted Wednesday to forego signing of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) 2007-2009 Operating Plan under further decision and negotiations... |
Legislative proposal concerns trainers (02/27/07)
Opening the door for a varied list of violations, citations and litigations, the proposed Tennessee Equine Protection Act, introduced by Sen. Tim Burchett (R-Knoxville) and Rep. Janis Baird Sontany (D-Nashville) in February's General Assembly activities, is being closely scrutinized by members of the walking horse community... |
 Bucky Griffy rides into his dream (02/24/07)
The outside of a horse, according to Winston Churchill, is good for the inside of man. No matter the age nor the ability, a horse can be the legs that brings dreams to life. The deep-abiding love of an animal, especially one that weighs over 1,100 pounds, is a love that is instinctive to the person, not something that is learned through a book. Nothing could be truer of a boy whose will to sit tall in the saddle changed not only his life but the life of a former show horse as well... |
Bucky Griffy rides into his dream (02/24/07)
The outside of a horse, according to Winston Churchill, is good for the inside of man. No matter the age nor the ability, a horse can be the legs that brings dreams to life. The deep-abiding love of an animal, especially one that weighs over 1,100 pounds, is a love that is instinctive to the person, not something that is learned through a book. Nothing could be truer of a boy whose will to sit tall in the saddle changed not only his life but the life of a former show horse as well... |
Trainers' show will be held (02/20/07)
It is often said "Beware the Ides of March" or that "March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb." Wink Groover, president of the Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA) plans to do the first and hope for the second. Following the "ides" of March on the 15th, and rallying for the lamb-like status at the end, the National Trainers' Show nestles its way into the month, securing the dates of March 21-24... |
Celebration CEO is optimistic (02/05/07)
Professional golfer Tiger Woods once said, "In order to get better you must first get worse." Throughout the decades of professional competition of the walking horse industry, much the same can be said. In 20-year cycles, according to Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration CEO Ron Thomas, the industry has often gotten worse before getting better... |
TWHNC rolls back ticket increase (02/02/07)
Citing an opportunity to "do something for the legions of fans who have been loyal through thick and thin," the board of directors of The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration has voted to roll back price increases approved in August of last year. Prices for the 2007 Celebration will remain the same as in 2006... |
Celebration takes a positive approach (02/02/07)
For many children and their parents, and those young at heart, the recent movie featuring a penguin who couldn't sing but could dance was spine tickling entertainment. The hero of the story is told countless times to give up his silly ways and conform to the status quo as penguins go. But relentlessly, through the snarls of frightening seals and mumbo-jumbo of other penguin cultures, the hero preserves, dancing to his own beat... |
Groover plans get WHTA support (01/23/07)
Taking the initiative to make changes necessary to secure a successful show season, Walking Horse Trainers Association (WHTA) voted unanimously at its January meeting to endorse the proposal for new show standards introduced by incoming president Wink Groover... |
NHSC votes for massive revamping (01/23/07)
Following the precedent set by the Walking Horse Trainers Association (WHTA), the National Horse Show Commission (NHSC) voted Monday to redesign and update many positions and regulatory structures of the governmental entity of the Walking Horse breed... |
Gallatin-based group wants tougher inspection rules (01/22/07)
CHATTANOOGA (AP) -- One group of walking horse inspectors has approved tougher inspection rules as other industry groups mount resistance to such rule changes proposed to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Gallatin-based Horse Protection Commission has approved tougher inspection rules that were proposed a few years ago by the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association to eliminate the practice of soring... |
 The circus is coming (01/20/07)
The Greatest Show on Earth is on its way to Shelbyville -- and the clowns were in town to talk about it. Dave and Cherie Gregg, Good Will Ambassadors for Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, visited last week to promote the Gold Tour of the circus, which will be at Calsonic Arena for five shows Feb. 23-25... |
WHTA chief sees change in the future (01/19/07)
Incoming Walking Horse Trainers Association (WHTA) president Wink Groover of Longview, Texas, smiled with anticipation as he spoke candidly Thursday about the future of the walking horse industry. In a nutshell, he said, the go-word is "change." "This is not the industry of the 1960s, or even the 90s," he began. "This is the industry of today, with today's rules and regulations. We have to change with the times... |
 Dog panel could be hindered by horse law (01/03/07)
A panel created by Bedford County commissioners to study vicious dog problems and recommend solutions has confronted an expensive issue for animal control departments across the nation. It's what to do if Congress enacts a law to prevent unwanted horses from being sent to slaughter houses to become feed for other animals or steaks in France where horse meat is considered a delicacy... |
Determined horse owners try to protect breed's image (01/02/07)
Though the season itself had experienced its ups and downs, the trainers and owners of Tennessee Walking Horses entered the final days of August with optimism and staunch determination to continue a tradition lasting almost 70 years. The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration (TWHNC, The Celebration) began as that tradition mandated but ended in a way no one could have expected... |
 Circus returns to Calsonic Arena (12/22/06)
When Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey rolls into Calsonic Arena, this all-new Ringling Bros. production will feature daredevil feats, non-stop laughs and an All Access Pre-show that's free to audiences one hour before show time. This circus spectacle boils all of the circus action down to a single ring -- providing a uniquely interactive and intimate Ringling Bros. experience... |
No action taken on Horse Protection Act (12/14/06)
CHATTANOOGA (AP) -- Congress failed to address an effort to amend the Horse Protection Act before adjourning last week. Prompted by disagreements this year between federal agriculture inspectors and members of the Tennessee walking horse industry, former Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist and Saxby Chambliss, R-Ga., in September asked the U.S. Department of Agriculture for a clarification of the act... |
Walking horse leaders want to get tough on abusers (12/12/06)
NASHVILLE (AP) -- After facing public criticism this year about the treatment of Tennessee Walking Horses, some industry leaders have proposed harsher penalties for those caught abusing horses for personal gain. "We want to see the horse be presented where the public can enjoy it, because it's the greatest horse in the world," trainer Wink Groover said Monday... |
Groover to lead Trainers' Association (12/02/06)
FRANKLIN -- Standing on a platform of needed changes in 2007, Wink Groover of Longview, Texas, was elected president of the Walking Horse Trainers' Association (WHTA) on Friday during the annual meeting of the group. "There are two things that are here to stay," said Groover during his nomination speech which followed opponent Mack Motes of Eagleville. ... |
Celebration leaders see better days ahead (11/15/06)
The difficulties which took place during the 2006 Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration will be resolved and the industry will move forward, industry leaders vowed Tuesday night at the Celebration's annual Appreciation Dinner. Chip Walters, director of public/media relations, welcomed the large crowd that consisted of board members, Celebration staff, part-time workers and local officials... |
TWHBEA switches to DNA testing (11/06/06)
The Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association has announced that the parentage verification program for Tennessee Walking Horse registrations will be converted from blood typing to DNA beginning Jan. 1, 2007. The TWHBEA will be running 17 micro satellite DNA markers recognized as the standard equine parentage panel by the International Society for Animal Genetics. The conversion is being directed by Kathy Zeis, TWHBEA executive committee vice president of breeders... |
TWHBEA cancels Invitational (10/17/06)
Citing lack of industry support as the reason for the cancellation, the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA) Executive Committee voted Monday by conference call to discontinue plans for the first efforts of the T |
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