PERMISSION GRANTED BY SHOW

Edgar Abernathy, Shannon, Mississippi requested and received permission to show his horses in McMinnville, Tennessee on Friday night in front of judge, Joe Cotten, last-minute replacement for Mr. Ronal Young who had become ill.  Mr. Abernathy, a Walking Horse Trainer and judge, traveled to Middle Tennessee to show horses on the 4^th of July circuit.  He stalled his horses in a barn occupied by Mr. Cotten.  Both Mr. Cotten and Mr. Abernathy reported the situation to SHOW officials.  The horses were never under the care or custody of Mr. Cotten. SHOW CEO, Dr. Doyle Meadows, approved the request in this unusual circumstance.

SHOW INITIATES SUSPENSION FOR HORSE SWAPPING

Late Wednesday afternoon, SHOW officials issued Violation Notices and suspended three individuals for presenting one horse for pre-show inspection and presenting a different horse at post-show inspection after competing in the class.  Hal Newman presented the horse for pre-show inspection; Josh Wall presented a different horse for post-show inspection and Frank Alvarez was listed as the trainer of record on the entry form. 

Each person received a one (1) year suspension and a one-thousand dollar ($1,000.00) fine.  Additionally, all three individuals will not be allowed on the show grounds of any horse show or other event affiliated with the SHOW HIO for the period of the suspension.  The suspension which begins immediately is also subject to written application for reinstatement at the conclusion of the one-year suspension. 

The individuals have twenty (20) days to request a hearing before a SHOW Hearing Committee; however, they will not be allowed to show or be on the grounds prior to the hearing process.

In addition SHOW will inform all HIOs of the suspension and will send all final documentation and evidence to the USDA.  SHOW will also send documentation to the Walking Horse Trainers’ Association and recommend the suspension of the licenses of all three trainers. 

SHOW is also investigating other allegations of horse swapping.

The 18^th annual Great Celebration Mule and Donkey Show is just around the corner, and everyone in this community and the mule and donkey industry are ready for a great time with good friends, good food, and their favorite animals.

The 2009 event will take place July 9^th – 11^th on the Historic Celebration Grounds in Shelbyville, Tennessee.  Every year the show brings competitors from all across the country to Shelbyville to show their mules and donkeys.  This year is no exception with exhibitors from twenty different states, as far away as California, pre-registered for competition.

While the show consistently boasts quality entries, the competitive nature of the event is a friendly one.  “Most folks who own mules and donkeys do not come into the show with an ego. They come for the friendly competition, a relaxed atmosphere, and if they win that’s super and if they don’t that’s okay too, said Ben Tennison of Western Mule Magazine.

Began to fill a void in an event schedule, The Great Celebration Mule and Donkey Show has grown to become the second largest event of its kind in the entire country.  This year’s event has been given even more prominence as it will play host to several national and world championships – The National Miniature Donkey Association National Championship, The North American Saddle Mule Association National Championship, The American Council of Spotted Asses National Championship and The American Gaited Mule Association World Championship.  Celebration CEO Dr. Doyle Meadows states “To be asked to host a multitude of the industry’s championship shows speaks volumes about the reputation our show, and our community as a whole, has within the industry.  We are honored to play host to these events.”

The show is not only an anticipated event among the competitors, it is also a great opportunity for spectators and newcomers to learn about donkeys and mules, the infertile hybrid of a male donkey and a female horse.

Friendly competition is just one attraction of the show.  The Great Celebration Mule and Donkey is also known as a time for fun, family-oriented activities.  Costume classes and obstacle races will be hold for both children and adults.  An exhibitors’ cookout, a watermelon feast, a barbecue dinner, and a mule sale are all additional features of the three-day event.

“The Great Celebration Mule and Donkey Show not only showcases top-quality animals and exhibitors, but it also fosters the atmosphere of family-oriented fun – all important in our industry!” stated Kathy Herrin, announcer for the show.

CELEBRATION TO SHOWCASE WALKING HORSE VERSATILITY

The 71^st Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, August 26 through September 5 will showcase the versatility of the breed with individual demonstrations prior to evening performances.  Walking Horse owners and trainers are encouraged to submit a DVD of their Walking Horse performing significant event disciplines that demonstrate their horse’s athletic ability or superior training.  These demonstrations will take place in the “Whittlin” Tree Ring” adjacent to the Blue Ribbon Circle on both Preliminary and Championship nights.  Anyone wanting to showcase their horses must submit a DVD to Mr. Jimmy Burton, P. O. Box 1010, Shelbyville, Tennessee 37162.  Mr. Burton may also be reached at 931-684-5915 Ext. 151.  DVD’s must be received by July 27, 2009.

“Last year we made a commitment to showcase the versatility of our horse at the 2009 Celebration.  The Tennessee Walking Horse has tremendous athletic ability and we want everyone to see these horses perform extraordinary tasks and maneuvers,” stated Dr. Doyle Meadows, Chief Executive Officer of the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration®.

CELEBRATION CHAIRMAN MCDONALD ATTENDS AMERICAN HORSE COUNCIL MEETING

Celebration Board of Directors Chairman Charles McDonald attended the 2009 American Horse Council’s (AHC) National Issues Forum recently in Washington, DC.  The topic of the conference was “The Welfare of the Horse”. 

While at the conference McDonald heard from several equine industry leaders concerning horse welfare, a topic that spans across all breeds and disciplines.  McDonald stated “While the emphasis has been on placing sound, compliant horses in the show ring in the walking horse industry, I learned that we are not the only breed within the equine world that faces similar issues.”

Those in attendance at the conference heard from several speakers, notably leaders from the American Association of Equine Practitioners, American Quarter Horse Association, United States Equestrian Federation, United States Trotting Association, and National Thoroughbred Racing Association. The final day of the conference was used for attendees to visit with Congressional Leaders and Federal Agencies.  McDonald was able to meet briefly with Senators Lamar Alexander and Bob Corker.

The American Horse Council, of which The Celebration® is a member, is a national association representing all segments of the horse industry in Washington, DC.  Founded in 1969, the AHC is member supported by approximately 160 organizations and 1,200 individuals representing every facet of the horse world – from owners, breeders, trainers, veterinarians, farriers, breed registries and horsemen’s associations to horse shows, racetracks, rodeos, commercial suppliers and state horse councils.

ADDITIONAL COMMUNICATION WITH USDA

In the spirit of transparency, and a continuing effort to keep those within the walking horse industry informed concerning the communications between SHOW HIO and the USDA, Celebration/SHOW CEO Dr. Doyle Meadows released the following letter he sent to Dr. Chester Gipson, Deputy Administrator, Animal Care, USDA earlier this week.  Click here to read the letter in its entirety.

STATE HONORS 2008 WORLD GRAND CHAMPION TENNESSEE WALKING HORSE®

State Agriculture Commission Ken Givens recently honored 2008 Tennessee Walking Horse World Grand Champion® owners Michael and Ann Jones and Trainer Link Webb and his wife Rhea Ellen. 

Givens recognized the Jones and Webbs during a luncheon of industry leaders at the Ellington Agricultural Center.  Givens represented Governor Phil Bredesen at the event which has become a tradition to recognize the contributions of the Walking Horse industry to the state.

““People throughout the world recognize and embrace the beauty, versatility and mild temperament of Tennessee Walkers,” said Givens. “The Tennessee Walking Horse Celebration is a wonderful event that draws thousands to the state each year and has a significant impact to the local economy. Tennessee is fortunate to have this event and industry in our state.”

Stan Butt, Executive Director of the Tennessee Breeders’ and Exhibitors’ Association, presented the official portrait of World Grand Champion “Santanas El Nino” to Givens.  The portrait, by photographer Michael Gomez will be on display in the Moss Administration Building at Ellington Agricultural Center.

“As has been the tradition in past, I am honored as the Executive Director of the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ and Exhibitors’ Association to present this portrait of the 2008 World Grand Champion “Santana’s El Nino,” said Butt at the event.

Representatives of the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ and Exhibitors’ Association and the National Celebration joined Givens in recognizing the guests of honor.

The 71^st Annual Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration® is slated for August 26 – September 5. The Celebration® is the longest continuously-running event in the state of Tennessee.

HEIRD TO HEAD SHOW HIO INDEPENDENT BOARD

Dr. Jim Heird, Tennessee native and Associate Dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences and the Director of Teaching and Outreach for the Equine Center, has agreed to serve as the chairman of the SHOW HIO Independent Board.

“SHOW is pleased that Dr. Heird has accepted this position and assignment.  He is truly an outstanding horse industry leader and we are proud to have someone of his credentials assisting our industry and the future of our breed,” stated Dr. Doyle Meadows, Celebration and SHOW CEO.

The following is a bio of Dr. Heird.  Before his current position Dr. Heird served as Interim Dean of the College of Business; Associate Dean and Director of Resident Instruction for the College of Agricultural Sciences; Director of Instructional Programs for Equine Sciences; Department Head of Agricultural Interdepartmental Programs which includes Agricultural and Extension Education, and the Master of Agriculture Program and as Interim Dean of the College of Agricultural Sciences and Interim Vice Provost of Agriculture and Outreach.  He is chairperson of the Y Cross Ranch management committee.  He is a tenured professor in the Department of Animal Sciences.

Dr. Heird graduated with his BS in Animal Husbandry Production and his MS in Animal Genetics from the University of Tennessee.  He earned his doctorate in Animal Behavior at Texas Tech University.  He was an extension specialist at North Carolina State University and a faculty member at Texas Tech University. 

Dr. Heird is an approved judge for the American Quarter Horse Association.  He serves as a member of the executive committee of the National Western Stock Show.  He served on several subcommittees of the National Association of State Universities and Land Grant Colleges.  He was a member of the Weld County Fair Board from 1996-1999.  He served as the chair of the AQHA judges committee and chair of the United States Department of Agriculture and Bureau of Land Management’s Wild Horse and Burro Advisory Committee.  As faculty representative for athletics he served as chair of the Western Athletic Conference Council and Executive Committee

Dr. Heird has an international reputation in the field of Equine Sciences.  He has lectured on numerous topics both nationally and internationally.  He was a successful judging team coach, as well as teacher and extension specialist.  His research in the areas of equine conformation and equine behavior is recognized throughout the equine industry.  He has received numerous honors, including the United States Department of Agriculture Honor Award for Excellence in Diversity as Discovery Program Coordinator; the distinguished Service Award from Southern University and A&M College, Baton Rouge, Louisiana; the Colorado State University Distinguished Service to Diversity Award; the Distinguished Alumnus Award from the Department of Animal Science at The University of Tennessee; and the Outstanding Professor-Leadership Award from the National Horse Judging Team Coaches Association and the outstanding advisor award for Texas Tech University.

Dr. Heird has a history of sincere dedication to fulfilling the land grant mission of helping to make people’s lives better.  In 2001 he led the development of a new strategic plan for agriculture at Colorado State University.  He initiated a first-year experience course to enhance student retention.  He has directed recruitment and retention efforts that have seen an enrollment change from 760 agricultural undergraduates in 1990 to 1324 students in 2002 and an increase in scholarships awards from $68,000 in 1991 to over $400,000 in 2003.  He initiated Bachelor of Science and Master of Agriculture degrees in Extension Education and a Bachelor of Science curriculum in Applied Information Technology.  He initiated the College of Ag Sciences’ career advising office and the hiring of a college career director; the hiring of the College of Agricultural Sciences diversity coordinator; the College of Ag Sciences Career Fair, Peer Advising Program; developed a computer technology support group; established student computer lab development and computer skills classes; initiated the development of a distance education offering for the Master of Science in Extension Education; and developed a network of junior college leaders who meet annually to discuss articulation.  He also established the Summer Discovery Program to increase minority enrollment in the College of Agricultural Sciences by recruiting, particularly in the Southeast, outstanding minority students.  He has been active and successful in development activities for the college and several of its programs.  He has been instrumental in helping to secure funding for the University’s interdisciplinary program in Integrated Resource Management.

More recently Dr. Heird was named “Professional Horseman of the Year” by the Colorado Horse Council.

SHOW Appoints Search Committee

Mr. Charles McDonald, Chairman of the SHOW Board of Directors, has appointed a Search Committee to fill the permanent position of Compliance Coordinator.  This position will be filled by an American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) veterinarian, as recommended in the AAEP White Paper issued last year.

Members of the Committee are Pat Marsh, Chairman; David Howard and Dr. Doyle Meadows with Charles McDonald and Mike Davis serving as non-voting members.  Marsh, Howard and McDonald are members of the SHOW Board, Meadows serves as CEO of SHOW and Mike Davis is the Chairman of the SHOW Personnel Task Force.

The Committee is drafting a job description, compensation requirements and a plan to publicize the position to potential applicants.  This position will be responsible for the enforcement of the Horse Protection Act and will report directly to Dr. Meadows. 

“It is imperative we keep the expertise of licensed veterinarians in our HIO program and this is the first step in that direction,” said McDonald.  He added “We have been calling on licensed veterinarians in our area for their help until we could get this position filled and they have been more than generous with their time and expertise.  We are thrilled at the additions of Dr. Steve Mullins and Dr. John Bennett as Co-Compliance Coordinators during our transition time.”

SHOW hired Drs. John Bennett and Steve Mullins on Monday June 15, 2009 to become Co-Compliance Coordinators.  Mullins and Bennett agreed to serve for two years or until the permanent replacement is named and no longer needs their support.  Both veterinarians will keep their current veterinary practices but will have complete authority over the SHOW DQP and inspection program.

SHOW began its HIO program on April 1, 2009 following the dissolution of the National Horse Show Commission.  Since that time, they have opted out of the 2007-2009 Operating Plan and introduced a new penalty structure.  They are presently contacting prominent horse people across the country to serve on the Independent Board that will manage the SHOW HIO. 

Announcement of the head of the Independent Board is expected shortly.

Bennett and Mullins Named Compliance Coordinators

The SHOW Horse Industry Organization (HIO) has announced a two-year agreement with Dr. John Bennett and Dr. Steve Mullins to become Compliance Coordinators.  The effective date of their employment is Monday June 15, 2009.  The move to hire licensed American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) veterinarians is based upon the recommendation of the AAEP White Paper, which SHOW has previously committed to implementing.

Both Bennett and Mullins will continue to operate their current veterinary practices while the search for a permanent Compliance Coordinator is conducted.  Both veterinarians have agreed to step aside if a permanent replacement is hired and no longer needs their support.

The Compliance Coordinator position will report directly to the CEO of SHOW, Dr. Doyle Meadows.  Andy Messick will be retained by the SHOW HIO.  The Compliance Coordinators will have complete oversight of the DQP program, including hiring, firing, training, and supervision.

“We are extremely pleased that Dr. Mullins and Dr. Bennett have agreed to serve in the capacity of Compliance Coordinators.  Since day one, we have been committed to implementing the AAEP White Paper and this is another step in its implementation,” said CEO Dr. Doyle Meadows.

“When we began the SHOW HIO we committed to the industry to do everything in our power to help with the current unrest in the industry.  A well-trained, accountable DQP program was and is at the top of our priorities.  We appreciate the progress Andy Messick has made with the program and look forward to Dr. Bennett and Dr. Mullins further enhancing the program,” said Chairman of the Celebration and SHOW Board, Charles McDonald.

COMMUNICATION WITH USDA

In an effort to keep those within the walking horse industry informed concerning the communications between SHOW HIO and the USDA, Celebration/SHOW CEO Dr. Doyle Meadows released the following letter he received from Dr. Chester Gipson, Deputy Administrator, Animal Care, USDA following The Celebration's® Spring Fun Show.  Click here to read the letter in its entirety.

In response to the letter from Dr. Gipson, Dr. Meadows sent the attached letter.  Click here to read.

SHOW HOSTED HORSE INDUSTRY LEADERS

SHOW Horse Industry Organization (HIO) hosted a group of prominent horse industry leaders from across the nation during the recent 39^th annual Spring Fun Show.  “We were extremely glad for this group of horse leaders to observe firsthand the Walking Horse Industry” stated Dr. Doyle Meadows, CEO of SHOW.

The group included Dr. Jim Heird, Colorado State University Horse Science leader and horse industry liaison with CSU, Cam Forman, Executive Director of Shows and Regional Activity with the American Quarter Horse Association,  Dr. Scott Hopper, Senior Veterinarian with Rood and Riddle, Lexington, Kentucky, Marie Wheatley, President and CEO of the American Humane Association, Dr. John E. Henton, retired Professor of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Tennessee, Dr. Mike Harry, Middle Tennessee horse veterinarian, and official veterinarian for the Spring Fun Show and Dr. Dave Whitaker, Director of Horse Science at Middle Tennessee State University.  Dr. Harry and Dr. Whitaker were both members of the AAEP (American Association of Equine Practitioners) “White Paper” published this past summer dedicated to the Walking Horse Industry.

The prominent group, as well as all members of The Celebration®/SHOW Board of Directors, attended a dinner on Wednesday evening.  After dinner the group heard a presentation by Celebration CEO, Dr. Doyle Meadows concerning the SHOW HIO and an overview of the walking horse industry.  A four-hour planning session on the Walking Horse Industry was held on Thursday morning followed by a trip to Chad Williams Stable in Shelbyville.  The leaders were introduced to the inspection process and shoe demonstration.  Finally the group attended the Fun Show and witnessed the inspection process first hand.  This education program was designed to allow other horse leaders to learn more about walking horses and the industry.

Attendee Marie Wheatley, President and CEO of the American Humane Association stated, "It is clear to me that every person involved in this meeting understands that the Horse Protection Act must be enforced, and decades of culture within the Walking Horse industry must finally change."

“I think it is important for leaders in other breeds and disciplines of horses to be aware of the direction and progress of the Walking Horse Industry” stated Charles McDonald, Chairman of the Board for the Celebration and SHOW.

Dr. Jim Heird, Cam Forman, Dr. Dave Whitaker observe walking horses at Chad Williams Stables.

SHOW Opts Out of Operating Plan and Institutes New Penalty Structure

Dr. Doyle Meadows, CEO of SHOW, has announced that SHOW has opted out of the 2007-2009 Operating Plan.  “After weeks of meetings, discussions and input from outside groups, SHOW has made the decision to opt out of the Operating Plan and institute a new penalty structure,” said Meadows.

“We are very serious about the enforcement of the Horse Protection Act and ensuring only compliant horses enter the show ring,” said Charles McDonald, Chairman of the Board for SHOW.  The decision to opt out of the Operating Plan allows SHOW the opportunity to implement a new penalty structure.  the new penalty structure is shown below this article.

“We are confident that the new penalty structure is more stringent than the current one afforded by the Operating Plan and will better enforce the Horse Protection Act.  Many of the penalties go above and beyond what is required under the Operating Plan,” continued Meadows.

The new penalty structure also eliminates the “ticket takers” that have previously been allowed to accept penalties under the Operating Plan.  Under the SHOW penalty structure, only trainers that have showed in at least five classes during a calendar year or have been recognized and approved by SHOW HIO officials as a qualified trainer are allowed to enter horses.  The five classes must be at horse shows affiliated with the SHOW HIO.

The new penalty structure has been adopted and added as an addendum to the current SHOW rule book in lieu of the penalties previously enforced under the Operating Plan.

ELIMINATION OF TICKET TAKERS:  ALL INDIVIDUALS ELIGIBLE TO ENTER A HORSE MUST SHOW IN AT LEAST 5 CLASSES DURING A CALENDER YEAR OR BE RECOGNIZED/APPROVED BY SHOW OFFICIALS.