Columbia, TN Mule Day 2011 by LUMBERMEN'S Equipment Digest

SOUTHERN

COMFORT

“Ride A Mule”

MULE DAY 2011 • COLUMBIA, TENNESSEE • MARCH 31ST – APRIL 3RD, 2011

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MULE DAY 2011 – www.muleday.com

Program Index

MULE DAY OFFICE: PO Box 66, Columbia, TN 38402 931-381-9557 • www.muleday.com • muleday@bellsouth.net OFFICE HOURS January: Mon. - Wed / 9-4 • February: Mon. - Thur. / 9-4 March & April: Mon. - Fri / 9-4

From The Editor

Columbia Tennessee has the largest Mule Day celebration in the world. Our involvement with the mule began in the 18th century. We have been a major mule supplier for the world for the past 250 years. Our Mule Day celebration is certainly enhanced because of our past history with the mule. Our celebration has something for everyone. We oﬀer several types of entertainment. We have a large arts & crafts fair, ﬂea markets, commercial vending, food vendors, special entertainment area for the children, mechanical bull, rock climbing and bungee jumping. But, our main entertainment is the parade with over 300 varied entries and our Mule shows. The parade is on Saturday and the Mule shows start on Thursday and go through-out the 4 days of the event. See our schedule of events for each days activities. Go to our web-page www.muleday.com or call us in January through Mule Day for more information. Come on down.

About the Cover

Jerry Higgins of Bradyville, Tennessee atop his trusted mule Simon leads the Mule Day parade as the oﬃcial American Flag bearer. Jerry has been the leading the Mule Day parade for going on ﬁfteen years. Photo by PJ Wamble

Check-In Center

The Red Top Log Cabin at the entrance to Maury County Park will be used as a “Check-In Center” for exhibitors, concessionaires and people bringing equipment that needs assistance. Our visitors that know where they are going, have the correct paperwork, etc. need not stop at the cabin. The cabin will be open through Friday evening. The “Information Center” within the park will still be open and is there to assist everyone with general information, oﬃcial Mule Day pins, bumper stickers, etc.

Advertisers Index .............................58 Advertisement Information .............28 Area Maps ............................... 7 & 30 Arts & Crafts Festival ........................4 At Maury County Park .....................4 Beauty Pageant ................................51 Bluegrass Music Fest .......................19 Camping .........................................58 Church Service ................................47 Clogging: Mule Town Stompers, Tony Malugin & Katie Stewart ...28 Commercial Vendor Space ..............58 Concession Permits .........................58 Country/Blue Grass Music ..............13 Disclaimer .......................................58 Flea Market .....................................58 Gospel Singing ................................53 Ham & White Beans ......................13 Hee-Haw Chili Supper....................25 Knife Auction - 2011 ......................41 Liars’ Contest ..................................25 Log Loading Competition...............15 MULE SHOWS: Draft Mule Show .........................34 Driving Mule Show .....................20 Gaited Mule Championship ........23 Mini Mania Show/Miniature Donkeys ....................................42 Mule Pulling ...................... 24 & 33 Riding Mule Show .......................48 Pancake Breakfast ............................29 Parade .............................................30 Entry Form/Rules ............... 55 & 56 Pickin' and Grinnin' .........................4 Schedule of Events ............................6 Souvenirs.........................................47 Special Entertainment .....................16 Square Dance - Saturday Evening ...44 Stalls................................................58 Tournaments: Canasta, Pool & Corn Hole ...................................13 Wagon Train ...................................12 931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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ACTIVITIES & ADMISSION The fun starts here! Activities begin Wednesday evening and will feature special blue grass entertainment held at the Ridley 4-H Center across from the park. Regular activities begin Thursday at 10:00 a.m. See Schedule of Events for complete list of activities. Admission: Thursday, Friday and Saturday: $7.00, under 12: Free, Sunday: no charge. Weekend passes available for only $12. All campers are required to have weekend passes whenever they arrive. Please get them when you make arrangements for camping. Price includes state amusement tax and are good for all in park activities, excluding rides. ARTS & CRAFTS AND FLEA MARKET The Mule Day Arts & Crafts Show will take place at Maury County Park starting on Thursday at 10:00 a.m. and continuing on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The Arts & Crafts will continue until 7:00 p.m. each day and end at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday. The Mule Day Arts & Crafts and Flea Market are two of the more popular aspects of Mule Day. The Arts & Crafts section consists of over a hundred vendors with a variety of items, all handmade by the crafters, and encompassing a large area of Maury County Park. Many of our vendors have been coming for many years, and a couple since Mule Day first began. We always have some new ones to add each year and always some new items to excite the crafting aficionados. We have quilts, pottery, iron works, collectible knives and coins, homemade fudge, woodworking and lots more. The vendors all love to meet and talk with all the visitors to Mule Day and even encourage you to sit and visit for a spell. The Flea Market is also very popular with our Mule Day visitors and we have over 30 vendors who come with sunglasses, cowboy hats, magic tricks and everything else from A to Z. Our vendors come from all over the country and look forward to meeting each 4

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MULE DAY 2011 – www.muleday.com

year for a four-day visit. I always look forward to seeing who and what is new and exciting for the coming year. So we hope that you will come out and visit, sit a spell and just absorb the wonder that is Mule Day, because that’s exactly what I plan to do again this year! Can’t wait to see you all at Maury County Park. CONCESSIONS Italian sausage and peppers… pizza… roasted corn on the cob… Greek salads… Philly cheese steaks… fried pickles… Nachos… fried Bologna sandwiches… Onion blossoms… kettle corn… hot apple fritters… funnel cakes… ice cream… fresh squeezed lemonade …cotton candy… plus so many more delicious foods for you to try! As you enjoy the activities of Mule Day be sure to sample all your favorite foods and beverages. All concessions are open until 7:00 p.m. and are inspected by the Maury County Health Department. There is limited concession space available by permit only. For more information, contact the Mule Day office. PICKIN’ AND GRINNIN’ There will be live music throughout the entire event. D.J. Cricket will crank up the event with some karaoke on Thursday. There will be a variety of musical entertainment ranging from bluegrass to hillbilly. Come on out and show off your singing talent or just bring a chair and listen to various musical groups pick and grin. SOUVENIRS All official Mule Day Souvenirs are sold by Tennessee Tech Alumni Association with profits going toward scholarships for Tech students. Visit their booth at the park and pick up your 2011 button, t-shirt or hat. For more information concerning souvenirs, call Bob Morgan at 931-388-4862. See ad on page 47.

WELCOME CITY OF COLUMBIA

MAURY COUNTY GOVERNMENT

Dear Columbia Visitors:

Dear Maury County Visitors:

On behalf of the City of Columbia, I extend to you a very special welcome to Mule Day 2011. We will again celebrate our past in Columbia as we are known as the Mule Capital of the World. Mules were an important part of our past and that of our nation. My grandfather, Neil S. Dickey, was a mule buyer and trader that participated in the early mule sales in Columbia, Tennessee. Because I grew up on a farm, I am aware of the value we placed on the mules that did the intensive labor to help provide our living. Help us celebrate our historic past and our exciting future this Mule Day. Our City employees will be available to insure that your visit is safe and memorable. Saturday’s parade is one of the greatest outdoor events in the south. Enjoy it from our beautiful downtown/West 7th Street area. In addition to the parade, the City offers shopping, dining, entertainment, and historical venues that we hope will enhance your overall Mule Day celebration experience. We are honored you have chosen to spend your weekend with us! We thank you for visiting Columbia and Maury County for Mule Day 2011. Our hope is that you can say you were treated with southern hospitality by the citizens of Columbia and you will come back again an explore everything that Columbia and Maury County has to offer.

I would like to take this opportunity to formally welcome all of our 2011 visitors to Maury County and let you know how pleased and honored we are to have you share a Mule Day experience with us. Last year, Mule Day was a tremendous success and we believe the 2011 celebration will be even better. Maury County is still proud to honor our agricultural heritage which is largely responsible for our growth and success. While the number of farms and farm families has decreased since our counties founding, we are still very much involved in the production of cattle and produce substantial amounts of both corn and soybeans. I was raised on a farm that had mules when I was a young boy and still remember with great fondness seeing the mules do so many tasks from plowing the fields to the pulling of the wagons to harvest the crops. While in Maury County, please feel free to call on myself or my office assistants with any help you may need or request you may have. Maury County employees will be happy to answer any questions and stand by to make your visit the most memorable occasion. Please remember that as a visitor to the 2011 Mule Day, you are our honored guests. Sincerely,

Sincerely, Dean Dickey Mayor City of Columbia

James L. Bailey, Jr. Maury County Mayor

931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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> Schedule of Events MONDAY, MARCH 28th, 2011 9:00 a.m.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Wagon Train Departs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 12 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30th, 2011 6:30 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Country & Blue Grass Music – Ridley 4-H Center. . . . . . . . . . . . Page 13 THURSDAY, MARCH 31st, 2011 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. . . . . . . Arts & Crafts/Flea Market. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 4 & 58 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. . . . . . . Live Music at Main Stage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .All Weekend 11:00 a.m.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Log Loading Competition – Main Arena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 15 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.. . . . . . . Special Entertainment – Main Arena. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 16 Staring Amazing Grace! The Riding Mule Show immediately following Shooters.

7:00 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Blue Grass Music Fest – Columbia High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 19 FRIDAY, APRIL 1st, 2011 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. . . . . . . 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. . . . . . . 12:00 Noon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4:00 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:00 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6:00 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7:00 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7:00 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Arts & Crafts/Flea Market. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 4 & 58 Live Music – Main Stage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .All Weekend Mule Driving Show – Old Arena. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 20 Amazing Grace – Main Arena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 18 Gaited Mule Show – Old Arena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 23 Mule Pulling – Main Arena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 24 Liars’ Contest – Columbia High School . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 25 Clogging, “Mule Town Stompers” – Ridley 4-H Center . . . . . . . . Page 28 with Tony Malugin & Katie Stewart

SATURDAY, APRIL 2nd, 2011 6:00 a.m.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Pancake Breakfast – Memorial Bldg. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 29 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. . . . . . . Arts & Crafts/Flea Market. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 4 & 58 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. . . . . . . Live Music – Main Stage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .All Weekend 10:00 a.m.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mule Pulling – Main Arena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 33 11:00 a.m.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mule Day Parade – Downtown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 30 2:00 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Draft Mule Show – Old Arena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 34 & 35 4:00 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Knife Auction – Main Stage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 41 6:00 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Amazing Grace – Main Arena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 18 6:30 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mini Mania Show – Old Arena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 42 7:00 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Square Dance – Ridley 4-H Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 44 SUNDAY, APRIL 3rd, 2011 9:00 a.m.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Church Services – Main Stage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 47 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. . . . . . . Arts & Crafts/Flea Market. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 4 & 58 12:00 Noon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Riding Mule Show – Main Arena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 48 2:00 p.m. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Gospel Singing – Main Stage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Page 53

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MULE DAY 2011 – www.muleday.com

Columbia Area Map < A B C D E F G H I J K L

LODGING Steeple Chase Inn Days Inn Country Hearth Inn James K. Polk Motel Hampton Inn Relax Inn Super 8 America's Best Value Inn Comfort Inn Jameson Inn Richland Inn Holiday Inn

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LEGEND #1 Maury County Park • • • •

Old Arena Main Arena Senior Center Arts & Crafts, Flea Market, Knife & Coin Show • Main Stage

#2 Schools/Columbia Central High School #3 Town Square

See page 30 for parade route and park area map. 931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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Sesquicentennial Commemoration of the War Between the States When you arrive in Maury County to enjoy Mule Day, you are in an area that is steeped in history dating back to the early 1800’s. The history of Mule Day dates back to the mid-1800’s when traders brought their livestock here on First Monday (April) to present them for sale. That was “before the war.” Now as the nation prepares to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the War Between the States from 2011 to 2015, we thought you Civil War buffs – either North or South – would like to know how much of that history is here waiting for you to discover. Many famous generals from both sides spent time here during the years of the war. You can walk where they walked. Some of those names are familiar: John Bell Hood, Nathan Bedford Forrest, Bull Nelson, Earl Van Dorn, Leonidas Polk, Frank Cheatham, John Schofield, James Wilson, George Wagner, Patrick Cleburne, Don Carlos Buell, Horace Capron, and Henry Mizner. During the course of action, Ferguson Hall in Spring Hill saw a Confederate General killed – not by the enemy but at the hands of a jealous husband. St. Peter’s Episcopal Church saw damage inflicted by Federal soldiers. At the end of the war, the church sued the Federal government for restitution and won.

A young lady, Antoinette Polk, made a heroic ride from Columbia to her home in Ashwood to warn her friends and family that the Federal troops were headed their way. She, no doubt, saved some lives that day. For her efforts, she was presented a battle flag by General Nathan Bedford Forrest. That flag has been restored and is back in Maury County after years in Switzerland and France. It’s an interesting story. Many have read the book “Company Aytch” by Sam Watkins. This lowly soldier’s chilling tale is well known. Sam is from the area. You will want to spend time in the Mt. Pleasant/Maury Museum of Local History where the battle flag of the Bigby Greys resides. Sam’s original affiliation was with this group. He is buried in the cemetery at Zion Church in the Zion Community near Mt. Pleasant. Learn what General Capron didn’t know about mules in front of St. John’s Church but should have. If you have studied this war, you know that John Bell Hood’s campaign of 1864 resulted in the beginning of the fall of the Confederacy. You can experience every step of the campaign thru Maury County. See the battlefield in Spring Hill where Forrest sent his men into a hornet’s nest of Federal guns as he denied their existence. Listen closely at the top of that

hill. Can you hear the guns and cannons roar? Imagine what it would be like to be a young, naïve soldier facing sure death. Drive past Oaklawn where John Bell Hood spent the night on November 29, 1864...the night the Union Army slipped past the Confederates at Spring Hill. Visit Rippavilla Plantation where Hood had breakfast with his generals before marching to Franklin for one of the bloodiest battles of the war. Have lunch at the Campbell Station General Store and Restaurant where you can see the railroad tracks that caused problems for Bull Nelson as he was heading home to Ohio where he was needed. These are just a few of our many stories. There are plenty back roads to take you past beautiful scenery as you drive from site to site. This is a trip you want to plan whether you add a few days to your Mule Day adventure or decide on a return visit. Mixed in with your living history lesson, you can enjoy other aspects of our community and have lots of good Southern food. To learn more about us, visit www.antebellum.com or call the Maury County Convention and Visitors Bureau 1-888-852-1860 or 931-3817176.

A Special Thanks to Our Corporate Sponsors for their Cooperation and Continued Support!

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MULE DAY 2011 – www.muleday.com

Discover the

Antebellum Homes Capital of Tennessee

Photo by Mike Serkownek www.TraceOfLight.com

As you discover the antebellum homes of Maury County, you will be taking a walk into our past. These beautiful sites live on as witnesses to history. Let our Presidential site, historic homes and plantations tell you their story. Historic sites open daily including: 11th President James K. Polk’s Ancestral Home & Presidential Hall Old Tennessee Trail Civil War Trails Other sites include: Rippavilla Plantation, Tennessee Museum of Early Farm Life, The Athenaeum Rectory, Elm Springs, Ferguson Hall & the Mt. Pleasant/Maury Museum of Local History www.tntrailsandbyways.com www.civilwartrails.org www.tnvacation.com

Proud to be a Mule Day Sponsor. Maury County Convention & Visitors Bureau 8 Public Square, Columbia, TN 38401 888-852-1860 931-381-7176 www.antebellum.com

931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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2011 GRAND MARSHALL

Knoxie Goad The Maury County Bridle and Saddle Club is pleased to announce that Mrs. Knoxie Goad will serve as Grand Marshall of the 2011 Mule Day Parade. Mrs. Knoxie is a charter member of the club and has a place on the Mule Day Hall of Fame. She was one of the original planners in 1973 when a committee was formed to study feasibility of bringing Mule Day back to Maury County after a few years absence. Her dedication over the years has contributed to it's success. She has served in many capacities, but is best know for arts & crafts director, concessions director and office manager. Now officially retired from her appointed duties, she still supports the Mule Day Committee. Besides her involvement in Mule Day, she is very active in her community and church activities.

Trail Rides, Fishing, Pool, RVs

CRITTERS WELCOME! 2291 Highway 231 South Shelbyville, TN 37160 Phone: 931-684-8822 Email: clearviewhorse@aol.com

www.clearviewhorsefarm.com 10

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MULE DAY 2011 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; www.muleday.com

LARRY THE CABLE GUY MAKES A VISIT TO MULE DAY–2010 One of the best kept secrets of Mule Day 2010 was "Larry The Cable Guy" coming into town with a film crew for The History Channel from California. The Producer for the "taping" in working with Louise Mills our Director of Publicity, asked her to keep Larry's visit quiet, because he was so popular, his many "fans" would interfere with the taping. Our good friend and supporter Ben Tennison of Western Mule Magazine, was also involved in the planning, had told the film crew, that the people coming to Mule Day in Columbia, Tennessee would not be a problem, for they would respect authority. The taping took place on Thursday and Larry got to take part in the Log Loading competition, spend time with our Mule Queen and Court with a wagon ride around the Park, and made a visit to a local farm and took part in working mules hitched to a plow. I have to let everyone in on a "little secret", just before Larry was leaving the park, I saw him "hiding out" behind the barns (stalls) and went up and talked to him for about ten minutes, he was as nice as he could be, and in that conversation did not have the same "tone of voice" that we hear on television. The show is planned to "air" starting in February and is named 'ONLY IN AMERICA' (check your local T.V. listing): and as Ben Tennison told me the theme of the show, will be about "events in small town America" that are trying to "preserve their history" which is why we should not make major changes to our Mule Day event, as it is like "going back in time", which our visitors enjoy. – by Dave Skillington

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PROUDLY SERVING COLUMBIA FOR 15 YEARS!

Johnny Fleeman began serving delicious food at great prices in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee in 1988 at a restaurant called The Brass Lantern. His goal was to provide the same kind high-quality food and service in a small town that people normally had to go out of town for. With a lot of desire, hard work, and commitment—the idea worked. In 1993 the first Legends Steakhouse was launched in Columbia, Tennessee. visit us online at:

www.legendssteakhouse.com

2401 Pulaski Hwy • Columbia, TN 38401 931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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THE

WAGON TRAIN

The wagon train will be returning to the beautiful Leiper's Fork area for 2011. This is one of the most beautiful areas of Tennessee and home to some of the nicest people Tennessee has to offer. Arrive early as the Leiper's Fork community will be serving a free super to the Wagon Train participants on Sunday. There are many many miles of beautiful and historic roads to ride in the Leiper's Fork community. The Wagon Train will be camping at the same place in Leiper's Fork on Sunday where supper and entertainment will be provided. Monday and Tuesday nights camping in Bethel, and will ride into the Maury County Park on Wednesday. Come prepared to relax and enjoy without the hassles of having to break camp every day. This is on tap to be the best Mule Day Wagon Train ever. All participants MUST register through the Mule Day Office before the ride. NO participant will be allowed to register on location. Cost for the Wagon Train will be $60.00 per individual. For more information contact: Dee Cee Neeley at 931-388-4590 or the Mule Day office at 931-381-9557. Pre-registration required through the Mule Day office. Absolutely no alcohol permitted.

Conveniently located at Exit 46 & I-65 After enjoying all the “Mule Day” festivities come relax with us at the Hampton Inn-Columbia. Your home away from home. 68 beautifully renovated rooms & lobby Hot Deluxe Continental Breakfast including make your own “ WAFFLES”

We love having you here! 12

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MULE DAY 2011 – www.muleday.com

Special Thanks to Bill Johnson with HorsePix Photography the oﬃcial photographer of Mule Day. www.horsepixphotography.com

WEDNESDAY 6:30 PM COUNTRY & BLUE GRASS MUSIC Come have fun and dance the night away! The Mule Day Committee is now providing entertainment on Wednesday night. There will be Country Music with line dancing, two-stepping and waltzing. We will also have a clogging exhibition and a surprise exhibition. Come out and join us at the Ridley 4-H Center located across from Maury County Park. Concessions will be available plus free admission!

The Nell Wright Senior Center (Next to Maury Co. Park Oﬃce)

OPEN: Thursday – Saturday March 31st – April 2nd for a place to rest? Take a break here at the Senior Center. You can even check your e-mail on our P.C.'s.

THURSDAY thru SATURDAY Coﬀee, Drinks & Homemade Deserts! THURSDAY & FRIDAY Ham & White Beans $5.50 11 AM - 5:30 PM THURSDAY 9:00 AM Hand and Foot Canasta Tournament Trophy/Prize $100, $55, $25 THURSDAY 9:00 AM Pool Tournament Trophy/Prize $100, $55, $25 FRIDAY & SATURDAY Corn Hole Tournament Must register for tournaments.

Raﬄe Tickets $10 or 3 for $25 Cash and other prizes totaling $4,000! Visit www.mcsc2.org for more info. Raﬄe drawing on Saturday after Mule Day Knife Auction at 4:30pm at the Main Stage. Located at the Maury County Park For more information, call 931-380-3950 - visit our website www.mcsc2.org or email: mkmcsc3@cpws.net 931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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The Old Barn Brought Back Memories By Pettus L. Read

On a warm spring day recently, I made a visit to my father’s old barn that had not seen my presence in many years. As the old weather-beaten gray door creaked on its hinges and I stepped over the threshold into the dimly sun lit structure, a thought from a book I read as a child flashed into by adult head. In E.B. White’s Charlotte’s Web, which he penned in 1952, he described much the same scene that I had just stepped into. He wrote, “The barn was very large. It was very old. It smelled of hay and it smelled of manure. It smelled of the perspiration of tired horses and the wonderful sweet breath of patient cows. It often had a sort of peaceful smell - as though nothing bad could happen ever again in the world.” Just as Mr. White had written in his famous classic, the old barn I was standing in gave that same kind of awe in the late afternoon sunlight. The years I had spent as a youth growing up on our farm in Tennessee contained many happy memories in this old barn during milking and feeding time chores and were times that helped shape me as a man. I had learned determination to do a job well, responsibility, patience, how to do hard work, and had my first experiences of seeing life lost as well as seeing it born. In the old barn my teacher was not a college professor or a top industry professional, but instead was my father who had already received his training in this very same old barn. The barn train-

ing degree I received with the help of my father was the equivalent of a PhD in those early years of life. He taught me what life is all about and led by example rather than by only word. He expected only the best, but understood the shortcomings of a boy. Each day on the farm began in the barn and ended in the barn. Not always because I wanted it that way, but because that is just the way it is on the farm. If you worked in hay all day and finished at dark, the cows still needed to be milked and cared for. Late nights at the barn meant feeding hay from a dark loft, moving corn from the crib also in the dark without finding our “friendly” rat snake in your scoop, and locating cows in the back-lot by moonlight. As I moved further into our old barn, which now showed the signs of years of non-use, I noticed the afternoon sunlight streaming into now empty cattle stalls between the barn’s weathered outside wall boards. As particles of dust sparkled in the sunlight rays, I noticed the bright streams of light made patterns on the straw strewn barn floor. The patterns formed were much like ones you would see coming through stained glass windows in a big city church with the images resembling keepsake Christmas Cards sent from someone special and never to be duplicated, but always remembered. In that barn I had spent rainy days jumping from hay bale to hay bale in the loft playing cowboys when I was supposed to be restacking the bales for

feeding. I also had made major discoveries in that barn when I would find our old yellow cat’s kittens. That barn had been the battleground of major corncob fights with my brother. Those were only battles that a farm kid would understand and appreciate. That same brother had also used that old barn to teach his younger sibling how to braid twine string into rope to make calf halters. I had my first experience of ownership in that barn when my father gave me my first calf to raise and I also experienced the pain of growing up when later I had to sell that same calf to help pay for needed school supplies and clothes. As I closed the door to the old barn the words written by White seemed to reverb in by ears where he said, “It often had a sort of peaceful smell - as though nothing bad could happen ever again in the world.” Yeah. I knew exactly what he meant as I walked away from my old friend that late spring day. Pettus Read is the Director of Communications for the Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation. He is also author of a new book entitled “Read All About It- A Rural Psychology Primer” which includes this story and others about rural living during his boyhood days. It is available on the Tennessee Home & Farm website at tnhomeandfarm.com with profits being given to 4-H and FFA youth programs in Tennessee.

We would like to give a Special Thanks to the City of Columbia and Maury County Governments for help and support in making the Mule Day event a big success each year! 14

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MULE DAY 2011 – www.muleday.com

THURSDAY 11:00 AM LOG LOADING COMPETITION

Come out and watch the precision of man and mule working together. Spectators get a chance to see how logs were loaded before machines were invented. Watch as mules and horses work together under man’s guidance as they show the true meaning of teamwork. You will be amazed at the precise methods and commands used to accomplish their goal. The show will be held in the main arena. Rules for Competition: • Judged on skill of team and handling of animals • Two hitches - maximum of four animals • Teams can be mules or horses The judging starts when the team is hitched to wagon and driven to loading dock. Snake (drag) logs to wagon and load onto wagon. Buck (tie) down with chain and saplin pole. Hitch to wagon and return to starting point. Judging stops. • All equipment furnished except animals and harness • Entry fee $30.00 • Payback = 1st $150 - 2nd $125 - 3rd $100 4th $75 - 5th $50 Original Proof of Negative Coggins Test Required, See Disclaimer on page 58. For further info contact Emory Combs 334-887-7288.

931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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THURSDAY 3:00 – 8:00 PM SPECIAL ENTERTAINMENT

Kick off Mule Day 2011 on Thursday with our Special Entertainment that is sure to please the entire family! Brought to you by our Corporate Sponsors and the Mule Day Committee. AMAZING GRACE This girls got talent! Check out the star of the NBC's Today Show, see page 18. Shows each day, see schedule of events on page 6. PAUL DAILY OF WILD HORSE MINISTRY Paul Daily will demonstrate how to gently break a horse in one session. Co-sponsored by the Maury Baptist Assoc. www.wildhorseministries.com SOUTHERN SADDLES; TENNESSEE PATRIOTS IN FORREST CAVALRY Join Living Historians Rick Revel and Billy Altom as they bring Tennessee history to life. Hear the stories of the men who rode with the greatest cavalry officer in American history. There will be various show times Thursday through Saturday. He will also be located in the entertainment section beside the Rotary Building. www.americanmusicandentertainment.com JACKPOT MULE RACES Jackpot Mule Races will feature heats of some smokin' fast mules, all competing for cash and bragging rights to the title of FASTEST MULE IN TENNESSEE! COWBOY MOUNTED SHOOTERS The Cowboy Mounted Shooters will perform the same fast action display of Cowboy Mounted Shooting that has excited Mule Day audiences for the past seven years with thrilling displays of mounted marksmanship – www.cowboymountedshooting.com RIDING MULE SHOW Starting at approximately 8:00 PM Be sure and hang around for the exciting Barrel Racing, Catalog Racing and Run, Ride and Lead Classes. (see page 48 for class details) 16

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MULE DAY 2011 – www.muleday.com

931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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AMAZING GRACE By Dave Skillington

I will have to say that the high-light of Mule Day 2010 for me was to meet Steve and Pam Foster of Front Royal Virginia, the owners of a mule I fell in love with named "Amazing Grace". As I told you in the 2010 Mule Day program, I "tracked them down" after seeing Amazing Grace on the Today show on NBC in downtown New York City during July 2009. She had just completed a movie starring Robert Duvall named "Get Low" about a fellow Tennessean in the time period 1930's that planned and had his own funeral while he was still living. The mule has the right name of "Amazing Grace" as the name implies, for she is truly amazing with the many "tricks" she performs, such as throwing a basketball into a hoop, pushing a baby stroller with a doll inside, getting mail from a mail box, holding one end of a jump rope, kneeling at a cross, picking up trash and placing it in a trash can, put a paint brush in her mouth, and she will paint a picture, and as a parting gift last year, the Foster's presented me with a picture painted by Grace, a gift I will always treasure. I could go on and on. She will again have three shows at Mule Day 2011, (see schedule of events). The Foster's were at the Wilson County Fair, during August, I wanted to go for their show, and visit with Grace and discuss their visit to Mule Day 2011. Pam Foster told me that they would like a "repeat" of 2010, for they would not change a thing about their first visit to Columbia, Tennessee for Mule Day. I told her that she would need to request the same perfect weather that we had for 2010. It was so good to visit with them at the fair, and I got "my kiss" from Grace. I would like to tell everyone about how well they took care of Grace; during the extreme cold weather and snow during February of 2010, I called the Foster's to "make sure" they were taking care of "my mule", Steve told me that Grace and her friend Missy (the high jump mule champion) were in their "stalls" in the basement of their home and 18

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MULE DAY 2011 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; www.muleday.com

had been for a week, so everything was being "taken of'' in the extreme weather. I would like to tell everyone about a conversation Steve Foster had with Actor Robert Duvall, at the end of the movie "Get Low". Actor Duvall, by the way, owns a farm in the same county in Virginia as the Foster's, and lives there about four months during the year. When Amazing Grace was first contracted for the movie, she was only going to be needed for one week, but she worked out so well in her "role" she was asked to stay for the entire "shoot" for a month. At the end, and during the final day, Actor Duvall pulled out his check book and told Steve, I am going to buy your mule, how many zero's do I need to add to the amount; to which Steve answered, she is not for sale, put your check book back in you pocket. The Foster's, Amazing Grace, along with Missy the "high jump" artist will be back at Mule Day 2011, for three shows (see schedule of events) performing in the Main Arena (back arena) plus they will be "camped out" at the back of the barns, all during Mule Day, so stop by, have pictures made with "AMAZING GRACE" (the famous star), Missy and The Foster's and show them our "SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY". The "stands" were full for their show, so get there early for a good seat. They will again be "sponsored by The Tennessee Farm Bureau, First Farmers Bank, and Kentucky Fried Chicken. The Mule Day Committee would like to thank these sponsors in helping bring Amazing Grace back to Mule Day for 2011. In closing, I think Maury Beautiful needs to put Amazing Grace on the payroll; as Steve likes for her to "wander" around the arena before her show; for this year she saw a piece of paper on the ground, she went over and picked it up (without command) and placed it in the trash can that was going to be used during her show. NOW "FOLKS" THAT IS A "SMART MULE".

Always pulling for agriculture...

www.tnfarmbureau.org

Ben Tennison of Western Mule Magazine "gets a kiss" from Amazing Grace during Mule Day 2010; look for Ben and Neta in their tent on Mule Alley during 2011, as they are the "experts " on mule events in this country, they publish a great magazine, and are "big supporters" of Columbia Mule Day.

THURSDAY 7:00 PM BLUEGRASS MUSIC FEST

Featuring Local Bluegrass Talent To be held at Columbia High School at 7:00 pm Admission is $10. Tickets will be available through the Mule Day office. Call 931-3819557 for additional information.

931.381.9557 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Columbia, TN

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FRIDAY 12:00 NOON DRIVING SHOW This show demonstrates how well mules work to wagons. From one mule to a four mule hitch, the mule is worked to see how well he obeys the driver. If you notice, the two mules are matched in color, size, gait and strength. A good driving team works as one. The skidding can be done with one line or by voice command. When done with voice command, everyone’s attention is fixed on the mule to see how well he obeys. During old’en days, a good mule that was trained to voice command was more common than today. However, we usually have one or two that are trained to voice command. So stop by and see these sometimes stubborn animals show off just how smart they truly are.

Chairmen of this event is the Skillington family, mule men for many years, John Robert and Ricky. Original Proof of Negative Coggins Test Required, See Disclaimer on page 58.

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MULE DAY 2011 – www.muleday.com

Entry fee $5.00 per class. Payback $60, $50, $40, $30 and $20. 1. Skidding - 1 Mule to Slide - 1 Line and/or Voice Commands 2. Skidding - 2 Mules to Slide - 1 Line and/or Voice Commands 3. Draft Horse Hitch 4. Mule Hitch - Show Wagon, 2 Mules 5. Mule Hitch - Lady Driver, 2 Mules 6. Skill Driving - 2 Mules Driving Skills & Teamwork to be Judged 7. Unicorn Hitch - 3 Mules 8. Mule Hitch - 1 Mule 9. Mule Hitch - 4 Mules

REESE BROS. MULE CO. NEW LOCATION: Westmoreland Expo Center 4049 Bentle Drive Westmoreland, Tennessee 37186 2011 SALE DATES: January 14th & 15th February 12th March 12th July 9th (Shelbyville, TN) October 8th November 12th For more information contact: Rufus Reese 615-452-2478 Dickie Reese 615-452-2544 931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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MAURY THE MULE IS HELPING PROMOTE MULE DAY Our mascot 'MAURY" is being used more and more to help promote our Mule Day event. He appeared in the Christmas Parade in Columbia this year, along with our Mule Day Queen and Court. He was a "big hit" at the Southern Fried Festival during the two day event in September, along with our Mule Day Queen and The Farm Bureau's -----Farmer Charlie, their chief spokesman. He appeared in the Mule Day Parade for the first time this year, and will have his own "booth" at the park (look for him at the top of the hill on Mule alley) to meet all the children and have pictures made during 2011. As we go to "press" with our 2011 program, plans are being developed for "MAURY" to visit all fifteen elementary schools in Maury County, prior to April 1st, and present a book entitled "Jasper The Mule", to the schools library.

Maury with Queen Lindsey Thomas, Mary Elizabeth Rinehart – member on court and Farm Bureau's "Charlie" looking on is Camden Smith. 22

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MULE DAY 2011 – www.muleday.com

Maury at the Mule Day parade during 2010. Cade Smith is Maury.

FRIDAY 6:00 PM GAITED MULE TENNESSEE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP 1. Stick Mule Class (Stick horses welcome) 6 years and under 2. Gaited Mule to Halter – Open 3. Trail Pleasure Racking Men 18 and over 4. Style Racking – Riders 17 and under 5. Men Riders on Gaited Mules Riders 18 and over Walk & Favorite Gait 6. 4 Years and under Tennessee Walking Mules – Riders 18 and over Specialty 7. Trail Pleasure Racking Ladies 18 and over 8. Gaited Mules – Riders 17 years and under Speciality 9. Western Gaited Trail Pleasure – Walk and Favorite Gait, No Caveson, One Hand Riders 18 years over 10. Lady Riders on Gaited Mules Riders -18 Years and over Walk and Favorite Gait 11. Riders 50 and over on Tennessee Walking Mules – Flat Walk and Running Walk 12. Western Gaited Trail Pleasure – Walk and Favorite Gait, No Caveson, One Hand Riders 17 years and under 13. Trail Pleasure Racking Riders 17 and under 14. Gaited Mules Riders 50 and over Walk and Favorite Gait 15. Style Racking – Riders 18 years and over 16. 5 Year and Over Gaited Mules – Riders 18 years and over 17. Speed Racking – Riders 18 years and over 18. 5 Years and over Tennessee Walking Mule State Championship *Specialty means No Canter Entry office opens at 3:30 NASMA Rules Apply, Shoe Size no Larger Than ½ x 1 ½, English or Western Attire, No Canter in Any Class. Entry Fee $15.00 per Class (Class 1 No Entry Fee)- Payback 1st Place $50, 2nd Place $30, 3rd Place $20, 4th Place $15, 5th Place $10. Original Proof of Negative Coggins Test Required, See Disclaimer on page 58. Entries from All States Welcome! Sponsored by the Maury County Bridle & Saddle Club. For more info contact the Mule Day office 931-381-9557 or Phain Smith at 931-388-5286.

Watch riders of all ages and mules from all “gaits” of life, vow to become the Tennessee State Champion. Watch as mules strut their stuff in various ways to be declared Champion.

931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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FRIDAY 6:00 PM PONY MULE PULLING Weigh-in from 3:00pm - 5:00pm Small Mules pull between 11' ropes (percentage) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 - 1,000 pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1,005 - 1,500 pounds

These little guys pack a big punch when it comes to pulling. The Over All Champion in 2010 also won the Pony Mule Championship which proves that bigger isn't always better! Small Mule Champion & Over All Mule Champion David & Josh Osborne from Franklin, Tennessee winning belt buckle and jacket.

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Don't miss the Saturday Mule Pulling Championship, see page 33 for details.

THURSDAY 4:30 - 7:30 PM HEE-HAW CHILI SUPPER 1st Methodist Church downtown, 222 West 7th Street. Homemade chili with condiments, hot dogs, homemade desserts and drink for $6.00. Tickets obtained at door, day of event. Proceeds to help the needy in the community.

ELIAS

Golf Carts Sales

FRIDAY 7:00 PM FRI. EVENING LIARS' CONTEST The Liars’ Contest is a fun-filled event with tall tales and good clean fun. The contest will be held in the auditorium of Central High School, which adjoins Maury County Park and is sponsored by the schools Parent Teacher Student Association. Tickets are $4.00 for adults and $3.00 for students. There are two divisions of competition: Adults, 18 and over and Students, 17 and under. Participants are to register with the clerk at the contest. The master of ceremonies will call the performer to tell tales of no longer than five minutes. First place winners from previous years are not eligible for the prize money, but they are invited to tell one of their favorite stories. These tellers should register with the clerk at the contest.

Allen Elias Office: 931-388-1882 Home: 931-381-1806

2624 Leah Drive Off Hwy. 31 South Columbia, TN 38401 931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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Enjoy your stay in our beautiful hotel! Our goal is to make you feel at home. You’ll find all the charm of a bed and breakfast and all the convenience of a hotel. Enjoy our Hearth Lobby with our free Continental Breakfast. Country Hearth Inn & Suites 1208 Nashville Highway Columbia, TN 38401 931-388-2720 / Fax: 931-388-2721 columbiacountryhearth@yahoo.com

Under New Ownership 1-888-388-2720 www.countryhearth.com

All rooms feature cable television, refrigerators, microwaves, iron and ironing board, hair dryers, personal coffee maker and free wireless internet access. We feature honeymoon suites, jacuzzi rooms, king size single rooms and double bed rooms. All available in smoking or non-smoking. Corporate accounts are welcome. Our extended stay rooms equipped with kitchenette, are ideal for those long weeks away from home.

Live music every night in our Lounge. Our large elegant banquet hall accommodates up to four hundred people. Ideal for all types of corporate or social functions such as meetings, Christmas parties, church gatherings, seminars, family reunions, birthday parties, weddings and much much more.

Over 30 Years Experience

MAURY FENCE CO. MULE TOWN #1 FENCING COMPANY Industrial • Farm • Residential Chain Link Vinyl Custom Plank Privacy Picket Split Rail Woven Wire

Licensed, Bonded and Insured

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931-381-2980 au 26

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w w w. m a u r y f e n c e . c o m 2634 Leah Drive, Columbia, Tennessee

State Contractor License #41369

Mule Day History From The Skillington Family Album By Dave Skillington

The pictures reflected here came from a family album that my 90 year brother John Robert Skillington gave me several months ago. In reviewing the pictures, I wanted to share with you the "fans" of Columbia Mule Day, this "little bit" of history. Being the youngest of eight children, I grew up "feeling like" I was on the Mule Day Committee, for Mule Day was discussed year-round at home. I did not get involved in Mule Day until I retired during 2001. My father Charlie Skillington was named Mule Day Chairman in 1947, the first year for Mule Day after World War II, by the Columbia Chamber of Commerce. That year, it was a one day event, and they allocated him $500 for prize money. My two older brother's John Robert and Joe Frank also became active in the event at this time. There have been so many stories written about the history of Columbia Mule Day, but I now feel so fortunate, to have "lived" some of that history during my life time. My brother and I discuss Mule Day almost every day, and the "growing problems" that we encounter every year, in putting on the event; I like to "tease" him and say it is all your, Joe Frank and Daddy's fault in talking the Chamber of Commerce in starting Mule Day back in 1947. The "highlights" for me have been Daddy's trip to Nashville in 1950 to the State Capital to invite Governor Browning to Mule Day; Joe Frank driving a 20-mule team in the 1950 Parade, Daddy being Grand Marshal of the Parade in 1974 and 1978, and John Robert being Grand Marshal in 2005. I would like to add that John Robert has been Director of the Draft Mule Show since 1974, and he is looking forward to Mule Day 2011. I will treasure these pictures always, and the "happy memories" they bring back as I continue in a small way to help Columbia, Tennessee be "The Mule Capital Of The World" each April. Photo Captions: (1) Daddy' on the way to Nashville, at Bethel School on "Headlight Nell", 1950. (2) Daddy being carried to the Santa Fe Cemetery, (in style) by Oakes and Nichols hearse, by his mules, driven by the late William Brown & Tony Sowell, note the Santa Fe students watching the funeral procession, 1979. (3) Daddy and John Robert with 6 "Jane" the State Champion mare mule, 1977. The Mule Day Committee mascot "Snowcreek Jane" was named after her. (4) Daddy at state capital in Nashville with Governor Browning, Joe Frank is holding Headlight Nell, WLAC radio carried the event "live", 1950. (5) Joe Frank with "Old Mag" the lead mule of the 20 mule team, 1950. (6) Sue Morrison Dunnebacke, Mule Day queen with Headlight Nell, 1950. (7) The 20 mule team making a "practice run" around the Maury County court house on the Sunday prior to Mule Day, 1950.

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FRIDAY 6:25 PM MULE TOWN STOMPERS, TONY MALUGIN & KATIE STEWART A clogging exhibition by the Mule Town Stompers will be held Friday at 6:25 p.m. at the Ridley 4-H Center located across from Maury County Park. Tony Malugin (local talent) and Katie Stewart, 2010 winner of Mule Town Idol in her category, will provide music and singing. Line dance public participation Wednesday & Friday (okay to bring chairs). Admission $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for children. Concessions will be available.

ADVERTISEMENT INFORMATION Call 931-381-9557 or write to Mule Day Office PO Box 66 Columbia, TN 38402 Attention Advertising 28

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MULE DAY 2011 – www.muleday.com

OUR MULE DAY DIRECTOR OF THE MULE PULL WINS STATE FAIR CHAMPIONSHIP Anita King and her husband W. E. were the Grand Champions of the Tennessee State Fair Mule Pulling competition held in Nashville during September. They have won the title for the past two years, but Anita not one to "brag" had not told the Mule Day Committee, we just happen to see her picture in the local paper. Anita and W. E. grew up going to Mule Pulls, as both their father's were into this sport in a "big way'. They have influenced many of their family members to get involved in the sport and they attend "pullings" almost every week-end during the summer, and end up the season at the Tennessee State Fair, in Nashville. They like to spend time with their "prize team" Jack and Buck during the late summer evenings in "keeping them ready" for the competition. In fact Anita counts them as members of the family, which she loves very much. Anita would like to give a "special thanks" to Freddie Lancaster (her brother), Scotty (son), Coty, Speck, Shelby (granddaughter) and Shena (niece). We are very proud of Anita, for she does a great job as Director of our Mule Pulling event, the "stands" are always filled to capacity, and it is one of our most watched events each year.

Way To Go, Anita!

SATURDAY 6:00 AM PANCAKE BREAKFAST Start off the Big Day with some delicious pancakes at the Pancake Breakfast located at the Memorial Building on West 7th Street. Pancakes served up by the Culleoka Lions Club. See map on page 30 for directions to the Memorial Building.

Best Ice Cream In Town! 1317 S. James Campbell Blvd 931-388-3181

Welcome to Mule Day! 931.381.9557 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Columbia, TN

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Hwy 412 By-Pass

LEGEND

To I-65

l ri a st ad du Ro In rk Pa

Memorial Building . . . . . . . . . . . . . . West 7th

Maury Co. Courthouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . West 7th

Route from Park to Parade Line-up * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Hatcher Ln. Parade Line-up

4 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Carmack Blvd. Business Route

Parade Route 5 ____________________

Hwy 412

8 7

Carmack Blv d.

MAURY COUNTY PARK

Hatcher Lane

To Pulaski

SATURDAY 11:00 AM PARADE DOWNTOWN Grab the sunscreen, stroller, kids and of course the camera and head to downtown Columbia for the 2011 Mule Day Parade! Mules and spectators come from far and near to enjoy the tradition of celebrating the mule. When you hear those sirens you know the start is near so find a seat and as always don't forget to cheer!

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Carmack Blvd. & West 7th

Columbia Academy

Central High Auditorium . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lion Pkwy

Maury County Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lion Pkwy

Ridley 4-H Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lion Pkwy

9 Columbia Academy Front Gate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . West 7th

Columbia Area Map on Page 7

The parade will again end at the main gate of Columbia Academy, located on West 7th Street, just past the railroad tracks. This will provide better viewing for more people and will help with the traffic congestion downtown, during and after the parade. All non-animal type floats, autos, trucks and people walking in the parade will enter the Columbia Academy School grounds for pick-up or disband, etc. All mule teams with wagons, mule and horse riders, etc., will stay on West 7th Street on the way to Maury County Park as in the past. No animals will be allowed to enter the Columbia Academy property. The Mule Day Committee would like to thank the officials of Columbia Academy and the City of Columbia for helping with the parade route. Photo courtesy of Laura Capozzola

931.381.9557 931.381.9557 –– Columbia, Columbia, TN TN

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SATURDAY 10:00 AM MULE PULLING TENNESSEE STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

Come see what all the hollering is about. Watch as mule teams compete for the Championship title by seeing who can pull the most weight, the longest distance. You will be amazed at the capabilities of even the smallest mule teams as well as the men who drive them. So come on out and show these mules some love as they show off their muscles!

Medium Weight Mule Champion Anita & Mark Speck of Livingston, Tennessee

Heavy Weight Mule Champion Danny & Karen Grubbs and Family of Manchester, KY

Over All Mule Champion David & Josh Osborne from Franklin, Tennessee winning belt buckle and jacket.

Super-Weight Mule Champion Curtiss & Dillan Hall of Jamestown, TN

The Tennessee State Mule Pulling Championship is in the new arena. Weigh-in is from 6:00 to 9:00 a.m. There will be seven classes with a $10 entry fee. Ribbons are awarded in each class. $100.00 for Champions in Small, Medium and Large. Prizes $100, $80, $60, $40 and $20. Overall Champion Team will receive a Trophy Belt Buckle. Mule Day Jackets will be awarded to the Champions of each class. Medium Mules pull between 12' ropes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,505 - 1,900 pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,905 - 2,100 pounds Heavy Mules pull between 14' ropes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,105 - 2,300 pounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2,305 - 2,700 pounds

All classes will pull the slide 10 feet. Pulling sled weighs 1,000 pounds. Super-Weight Mules, 2,705 and up, single overweight 20', pull between 15' ropes (not eligible for championship). Original Proof of Negative Coggins Test Required at Sign up, See Disclaimer on page 58. For More Information on the Tennessee State Mule Pulling Championship Contact: Anita King 931-682-3376. 931.381.9557 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Columbia, TN

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y l l o M

2010 King Mule Proudly owned by Wood and Higginbothan from Cave City, Kentucky

SATURDAY 2:00 PM DRAFT MULE SHOW The real beauty pageant of Mule Day is the Draft Mule Show held in the Old Arena. This 29 class show is for the mule to put its best hoof forward and be classy. This event culminates in the crowning of the Grand Champion. The show starts with the Jack classes – the father of the mule. This is followed by the Jennet classes – the mother of the henny. These classes are followed by some Draft Horse classes. From class eight until the Grand Champion class the mules will strut their stuff and show us just what beautiful animals they truly are. We look at their long legs, long ears, and build. The Grand Champion is crowned “King Mule”. Now this may be a mare mule or a horse mule. For more years than not, the “King Mule” has been a mare mule. Aren’t the girls always the prettiest! So come on out and cheer for your favorite Mule! Chairmen of this event is the Skillington family, mule men for many years, John Robert, and Ricky. Original Proof of Negative Coggins Test Required, See Disclaimer on page 58. No horse stallion of any age allowed in any class.

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The Draft Mule classes are as follows: 1. Best Jack - 2 years and under 2. Best Jack - 3 years and over 3. Best Jennet - 2 years and under 4. Best Jennet - 3 years and over 5. Best Draft Horse - 2 years and under 6. Best Draft Horse - 3 years and over 7. Best Pair Horses - Open (No Stallions) 8. Best Mare Mule - 1 year old 9. Best Pair Mare Mules - 1 year old 10. Best Horse Mule - 1 year old 11. Best Pair Horse Mules - 1 year old 12. Best Mare Mule - 2 years old 13. Best Pair Mare Mules - 2 years old 14. Best Horse Mule - 2 years old 15. Best Pair Horse Mules - 2 years old 16. Best Mare Mule - 3 years old 17. Best Pair Mare Mules - 3 years old 18. Best Horse Mule - 3 years old 19. Best Pair Horse Mules - 3 years old 20. Best Mare Mule - 4 years and over 21. Best Pair Mare Mules - 4 years & over 22. Best Horse Mule - 4 years and over 23. Best Pair Horse Mules - 4 years & over 24. Best Pair Mare Mules 25. Best Pair Horse Mules 26. Best MATCHED Pair of Show, Any Age 27. Champion Mare Mule of Show 28. Champion Horse Mule of Show 29. Grand Champion of Show to be Crowned “King Mule” Entry fee $5.00 per mule. Payback $40, $35, $30, $25 and $20. 931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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MULE CROSSING: The Language of Longears Many of you know me as the foremost authority on the contemporary saddle mule, but what you may not know is how I earned such a title. Most of us who have become trainers began by riding and showing. Through our success, we gained recognition and subsequently clients who brought their animals to us for training. Our success with their animals posed a question for each of us at a critical stage in our careers and we had to make a decision whether we were going on the road to do clinics or something different. I opted for something different! Instead of going on the road to do clinics, I thought long and hard and decided to do an equestrian correspondence training course. I opted for this after considering that when I went to clinics as a student, I was one of 20 people and I got limited attention during those clinics. I realized that I only received highlights of training that had a lot of holes in it when I put it into practice at home. When I tried to contact the clinicians to ask a question, I was either answered by someone in the office, or not answered at all. The clinicians were most often too busy and out of touch. The one thing I didn’t realize by making this decision was the incredible learning opportunity I had opened up for myself that I could, in turn, pass on to my clients. I did my resistance-free video training series in as much detail as I could possibly muster. Each video represented a year’s worth of training, but as we all come to know, you can never know everything. The more you learn, the more you learn what you don’t know. I did learn fairly quickly that the relationship between equine and owner is unique to those individuals. That is, I realized it made more sense that I teach people how to train their own animals. After all, you wouldn’t have someone to go out and make a friend for you? The relationship is truly your own and I adopted the policy that as a trainer, my responsibility would be to guide people through the process of training their own animals for the best possible results. This has proven to be true far beyond any expectations that I might have had! This decision afforded me more time at home where I could communicate with others and help them with their animals. It also afforded me more training time with my 21 mules and donkey jacks. I have always done the training of my own animals myself. I had an assistant for awhile who kept the old school masters and other broke mules exercised from time to time. However, the actual training of the mules I did myself because I wanted to keep learning new things that would enhance my training program and make it better. The new things I learned I documented in the form of books, videos and TV shows. What began as a quest to train and show mules in every equestrian discipline expanded beyond my wildest dreams! When they told me mules would not work in a snaffle bit, I learned how to make that work. When they said they were not suitable for dressage, I based my entire training program on those principles. When they told me not to give food rewards, I paid my mules for their efforts with a generous reward of crimped oats. When they told me not to talk to my equines, I spoke three languages to them: verbal language, body language and “touch” 36

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MULE DAY 2011 – www.muleday.com

language. I can truthfully say that today I realize that it wasn’t the mules that were so stubborn, but rather…it was me! This positive kind of stubbornness did pay off, as I was to soon discover. Beginning with the “A, B, Cs” (walk, trot, canter, whoa, back), my verbal language with them evolved over time into actual conversations. The tone of my voice indicated my pleasure or displeasure with their actions. Calling their names and then stating a command prompted their immediate attention. When working with multiple animals, phrases like “Get back on the rail!” and “Stop kicking your brother!” initiated a positive response and validated my expectations that they could indeed understand what I was saying beyond the normal commands. I watched their reactions to the tour guests we had at the ranch as they walked through the barn and met these animals. If a guest made a remark, the animals responded with an appropriate show of emotion. If it was a snide remark, they would lower their heads and splay their ears in a most dejected way; a positive remark would elicit a show of attention with ears perked toward the person who made the comment. This has shown me that they do understand English, even if they cannot speak it! Body language is probably the most important of all the “languages.” These animals will mirror you and react to what your body is telling them. If you position yourself in front, you can turn them or stop them. If you walk up to them in an aggressive way, they will show fear. If you go to a gate or the stall door and wait with an inviting attitude, they will come to you. Of course, learning accurate body language is a responsibility that we must put upon ourselves to really be effective. I just watched the reactions of my animals to everything I did and said. If I received a negative response, I would change my approach until I got it right. When I got it right, so did they! “Touch” language is simply how you touch your animal whether it is with your hand, a grooming tool or a whip. Touch needs to be empathetic but firm enough to do the job. Touch is a powerful tool. It can be soothing and relieve anxiety. It can be pleasurable or painful. Touch can indicate direction depending on how it is used. We begin with imprinting, or touching of the foal all over its Continued on page 38

LEARN TOGETHER. EXCEL TOGETHER.

www.LuckyThreeRanch.com 800.816.7566 Caring for an animal, taking the time to train him the right way, and receiving his also available en français, in deutscher Sprache or en español.

trust and aﬀection in return, that’s why I do what I do.

-DVSHU WKH 0XOH Books and DVDs you can give your kids with confidence.

www.JasperTheMule.com

800.816.7566 931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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Continued from page 36

body, but this is not the beginning and end of imprinting. Imprinting sets the stage for the kind of interaction you and your equine will have during your entire life together and can often bridge a gap of misunderstanding when the other two languages are not working. Never was this more apparent to me than just recently! Little Jack Horner has gone through my entire training series right along with my mules and has learned everything that I have taught them. He may not have made it to Fourth Level Dressage, but he made it to Second Level with extensions and lateral work. He overcame his “donkey” behaviors and gave a phenomenal performance jumping four feet in exhibition at Bishop Mule Days. His reining was accurate though somewhat limited by his donkey conformation. Still, he could always elicit a supportive laugh and a wide grin! He competed successfully at dressage driving shows and won world championships in driving at Bishop Mule Days. Recently, Little Jack Horner was to star yet again in the making of my biography, our latest Those Magnificent Mules documentary project. I doubt that I have driven Little Jack Horner in fifteen years. In fact, since he turned twenty, he has not done much but take part in more sedate roles in our TV shows and videos with an occasional bareback ride around the ranch. At 30 years old, I wasn’t really sure how he would react to being hitched to the Meadowbrook cart again after so many years, so I thought I had better do a dress rehearsal. During the dress rehearsal, I discovered that Little Jack Horner didn’t know what to do once I got on the harness. He was tied in the tack barn and when I tried to ground drive him forward, he just backed up until he was out of the building, then he went forward to the hitching area. I was rather puzzled. Still, I went ahead and hitched him to the cart and we stood there for some photos before I backed him from the hitching rail. I verbally asked him

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MULE DAY 2011 – www.muleday.com

to go forward…nothing. I did not have my driving whip with me, so I used the end of the reins on his fanny to move him forward which he then did, but kept going straight until he ran into the fence and stopped. I thought this was very strange, so I asked my ranch manager to get my driving whip. With the whip in hand, I began to talk to him with the whip. A simple tap to the side and he turned from the fence. Another tap in the middle of his spine sent him smartly forward at an animated walk. Another tap to the other side turned him the other way and we were soon doing figure eights, stopping, backing and driving as if there was never a problem at all. During the film shoot, he did all these things and even offered several hundred feet of trot before he was too tired to continue. It was during this experience that I realized that Little Jack Horner had become deaf and could not hear one word of what I was saying, even when I was yelling. I was sitting in the Meadowbrook cart, he had blinders on his harness bridle and could not see me, so verbal language and body language were of no help to him at all. Lucky for us, we still had the “touch” language that we had developed between us and we thoroughly enjoyed the experience of driving yet again. It is evident to me that every detail that I had taken the time to learn in our 30-plus years together culminated in the results I see now with all my equines. We have learned so much about each other! Now that we are all a lot older, a lot slower and a lot less coordinated, we are still afforded the luxury to continue to learn and grow together in a safe and enjoyable way. It doesn’t get any better than this! For more information about Meredith Hodges and her comprehensive, correspondence training Program, Training Mules and Donkeys, please visit www.LuckyThreeRanch.com or call 1-800-816-7566. Also, find Meredith Hodges and Lucky Three Ranch on Facebook and Twitter and…don’t forget to check out her children’s website at www.JasperTheMule.com

Ethridge, Tennessee Home of The South’s Largest “Old Order Amish” Community

AMISH WELCOME CENTER Wagon Tours Daily 9AM until 4PM Call for Group Rates Step-on Guide Available Call for More Information! 931-829-2433 or visit www.amishwelcomecenter.com 4001 Hwy. 43 North Ethridge, TN 38456

Our campground is nestled in the heart of Amish Country here in the small town of Ethridge, TN. This community may be small but it is rich in heritage and vibrant in life. Our campground is built on the oldest Amish farm in Tennessee and with miles of backroad and over 350 Amish families to see, it is worth the trip to stay with us. Located oﬀ Hwy. 43 in Etheridge, TN Contact Carlos or Linda Wilhite 931-829-4655 or 256-338-9214 www.aplaceofrestc ampg round.com OPEN YEAR ROUND: Log Cabin • WI FI (At Campsite) • Antique Shops • Horse & Pet Friendly • Modern Bath House with Laundry • Big Rig Friendly • Full Hookups Including Electric (50amp), Water and Sewer • All Pull Through Sites • Overnight, Short Stay and Monthly Stays Welcome • Covered Wagon Campers 931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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the

Working Mule

the

riding Mule

the draft mule

GAITED/QUARTER mule

papa = jack mama = draft mARE (belgian or percheron) average weight = 1,300 TO 1,500 LBS.

papa = jack mama = WALKING/QUARTER MARE average weight = 700 TO 850 LBS.

Mule Definition A mule is, in its usual meaning, an offspring from a male donkey and a female horse, while the reverse of such is called a hinny. The mule is easier to breed and larger in size than the hinny, and usually the chromosomal match up is better when it is a male donkey and female horse – producing a unique offspring. They are almost always sterile, however there have been a few rare cases where mules and hinnies have been able to produce offspring of one type or another. Donkeys have a total of 62 chromosomes, and horses have 64 – the offspring have 63 and cannot divide evenly, which renders them sterile in almost all cases. The mule has long ears, short thick heads, thin limbs, small hooves, and a short mane; it also does not sound like a donkey, nor does it sound like a horse. There are many coats, depending on the sire and the dam. In behavior the mule has the same tendencies as the donkey with its patience, endurance, and agility in being sure footed, making it excellent in hard or more unstable terrain – however it lacks the fear and weaknesses of the donkey , rather it has more strength and is bolder. Their hooves are stronger, and they go lame much less often, and are resistant to disease in comparison with the horse. They also don’t like dogs quite as much as horses do, and are capable of defending themselves or their rider against a number of predators – with 40

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MULE DAY 2011 – www.muleday.com

recorded numerous kills against mountain lions. They also can fire off a kick in any direction they wish to with great accuracy, and can be lethal. There have been only sixty documented cases of fertile mules in four hundred years, and one clonedmule. What are Riding Mules and Gaited Mules? Mules come in very handy as riding partners along trails, or other traveling activity. They can match a horse’s abilities with ease- and in some ways offer a steadier ride. They are also often less ill-tempered if you know how to handle them. These mules are renowned for trail riding, and even make many appearances in the Bible. For those who don’t know, mule riding is a very rewarding experience, but there are a few simple things you should know before you decide on buying or renting your own mule. Gaited mules are very prized- as they have certain ways of moving that are desirable. Much like gaited horses, the mules have certain types of gallops, walks, trots, canters, and what is called “ambling gaits”. Trained mules can learn to go between these riding styles, and earn the title of “Gaited Mule” in return. When buying mules, gaited mules are obviously more expensive from the training or special breeding needed to earn the title of ‘gaited’. For trail riding and other non-sport uses, normal riding mules are the best, if you

are looking to save money. Riding mules may not know all of the gaits, but they are still very good travel partners nonetheless. Having control over the mule can prove beneﬁcial in many situations. Un-gaited mules will be stubborn, and basically go at their own pace. Gaited mules have the upper hand in many instances, as you can command them to walk, trot, or gallop based on the situation. Gaited mules often tend to be more ‘teachable’, which therefore lets you create a better bond between owner and pet, should you buy a gaited mule. If you lack the money necessary to buy a gaited mule, but still need the gaits that come with such a prize mule, then you can train it yourself. This can often be very tedious work, as usually only certain breeds are trainable. Even still, mules can be very stubborn at times and resist training. Through persistence and a little research, you can manage to turn a normal riding mule into a gaited mule in due time. All in all, the entire decision comes down to price. If you have the extra money, gaited mules are a wonder to own, and brings extra pleasure in trail riding or sport. If you lack extra funds, then riding mules still make wonderful pets, riding partners, or pupils should you try to train them yourself. This information was taken from the website www.themules.net

SATURDAY 4:00 PM

Restaurant

MULE DAY KNIFE AUCTION The 2011 Mule Day Knife will be a step-down bolster Hen & Rooster, four-blade Congress with genuine stag handles. An auction will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday at the main stage at Maury County Park. Knives #1-10 will go to the highest bidder above the minimum $60.00 bid with this money going to charity. Each of the 500 knives are boxed, serialized, and etched. Collectors with last year's knives may purchase their 2011 knife by mail for $60.00 which includes free shipping. Checks made payable to M.C.B.S.C. should be sent to Mule Day, PO Box 66, Columbia, TN 38402 to purchase your knife. Collectors who are interested in selling their collections please call Fran Thornell at 931-486-1505. A list is being compiled for interested parties.

& Country Store

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1555 Bear Creek Pike I-65 & Hwy. 412 off of Exit 46 Columbia, TN 38401 • Since 1947 • 381-2234

931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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SATURDAY 6:00 PM MINI MANIA SHOW Open to Miniature Donkeys (36” and less) and Miniature Mules (up to 40”) In the Walking Horse Arena - Registration 5:00 PM

Have you ever seen a 36” tall donkey pull a wagon? You won’t want to miss the obstacles these small mules and donkeys overcome. From jumping over poles to pole bending, these animals can do it all. And did we mention, HOW CUTE THEY ARE!

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MULE DAY 2011 – www.muleday.com

1. Youth Driving - Exhibitor age 17 & under 2. Adult Driving - Team Hitch - Exhibitor age 18 & over 3. Adult Driving - Single Hitch - Exhibitor age 18 & over 4. Pole Bending - Mules - Single Hitch Only 5. Pole Bending - Donkeys - Single Hitch Only 6. Obstacle Driving - Mules & Donkeys 7. Snigging - Mules 8. Snigging - Donkeys 9. In Hand Jumping - Mules & Donkeys 10. Braying Contest 11. Costume Class - Open 12. Coon Jumping - Mules & Donkeys 13. Panty Race - Mules & Donkeys 14. Halter - Weanling/Yearling - Mules 15. Halter - Weanling/Yearling - Donkeys 16. In Hand Trail - Mules & Donkeys 17. Open - Solid Colors - Mules & Donkeys 18. Open - Spotted/Color - Mules & Donkeys 19. Best Matched Pair - Mules & Donkeys $5 Entry Fee Per Class PRIZE MONEY $25 1st Place; $20 2nd Place; $15 3rd Place Ribbons awarded 1st through 5th places. Original Proof of Negative Coggins Test Required at Sign up, See Disclaimer on page 58. Body clipping is "NOT" required because of inclement weather. Contact: Carol Tisher for more information 931-3802496 or 931-629-7127 or Email: tctisher@bellsouth.net

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931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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BUDDY’S TIRE STORE 931-381-3880

120 Old Bear Creek Pike Columbia TN 38401 Hours: Mon – Fri 8AM – 5PM Sat 8AM – 12 Oil Change – Brakes New & Used Tires Batteries – A/C Work – Tune Up’s

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MULE DAY 2011 – www.muleday.com

SATURDAY 7:00 PM SATURDAY EVENING SQUARE DANCE The Mule Day Square Dance is held at the Ridley 4-H Center with a charge of $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for children 6-12, children under 6 free. The Saturday Evening Square Dance was the culminating event for Mule Day in the early years and the tradition continues today. The old time Appalachian style square dance is held on Saturday night. Along with square dancing there is line dancing, buck dancing, two stepping and waltzes. The event has a live band, features callers Frank Fite and Bobby Russell. A special event for several years is the presentation of the Mule Day Queen and her Court at 8:00 p.m. followed by a buck dance contest held at 9:00 p.m. for ages 5 and under; 6-12; 13-18; 19-60; 60+. There will be a male and female winner in each age group. Friends of the Park will operate the concession stand which provides hamburgers, hotdogs, funnel cakes and a variety of other treats. For more information, contact Frank Fite 931381-0772 • E-mail: fitem@yahoo.com

931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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"AG DAY ON THE HILL" IN NASHVILLE For the past two years, the Mule Day Queen and Court have been invited to "AG DAY ON THE HILL" in Nashville. The Governor and State Legislature use this day to emphasize the importance of agriculture to the state's economy. All farm animals are on display at the State Capital, including mules owned by Charlie Reed of Spring Hill. Charlie's mules are well trained for they walked up fourteen steps for the "picture taking session". The Mule Day Queen speaks to the State Ag Committee, during the morning session, where she "plugs" our Mule Day event. The Mule Day Committee would like to thank State Rep. Ty Cobb for inviting Mule Day to this important event each year.

â&#x153;Ś

MULE DAY 2011 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; www.muleday.com

SUNDAY 9:00 AM WORSHIP SERVICE Join us at the Main Stage as a local Baptist Church leads us in a creative worship experience entitled... “Beginning in Jesus” A special presentation that has something for everyone including a live band, drama, signing and puppets! Sponsored by Mule Day and the Maury Baptist Association.

Special Thanks to Maury Alliance and the Maury County Convention and Visitors Bureau for their financial support and "work" for the mule day committee on a year-round basis.

ANTIQUE TRACTOR SHOW October 8th, 2011 Located Behind

Rippavilla Plantation U.S. Highway. 31, Spring Hill, TN

ADMISSION FEES: Adults - $2.00 Children under 12 - Free OPEN: APRIL - OCTOBER FRI. & SAT. 9:00 A.M. to 3:30 P.M.

(any day by appointment)

TENNESSEE TECH UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OFFICIAL MULE DAY SOUVENIRS B Ball Collar Shirts, Adult Only L & XL . . . . . .$14.00* 2X & 3X . . . . . . . . .$16.00* T-Shirts, Children’s thru Adult XL . . . . . . . . .$10.00* 2X & 3X . . . . . . . . .$12.00*

Proceeds to Provide Scholarships Since 1975 we have assisted 513 students with a total of $841,321 to help with their education.

Mugs . . . . . . . . . . . . $4.00* Buttons . . . . . . . . . . .$1.00* All American Cloth Cap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $8.00* Mesh Cap . . . . . . . . $5.00* Official Mule Day Belt Buckles . . . . . . . . . $24.00*

Mule Day 2011 SOUTHERN COMFORT "Ride A Mule" B/W Prints . . . . . $10.00* Available by mail-order, Call 931-388-4862

TTU Alumni, 606 N. Main St., Columbia 38401 *All prices plus shipping and handling. 931-388-4862

TO CONTACT US PLEASE CALL 931-381-3686 OR WRITE TO: TENNESSEE MUSEUM OF EARLY FARM LIFE 5700 MAIN STREET SPRING HILL, TN 37174 931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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SUNDAY 11:00 AM RIDING MULE SHOW Sponsored by:

THURSDAY - 8:00 PM *1. Run-Ride-Lead * *2. OPEN Barrels 3. Catalog Race SUNDAY Starting at 11:00 AM - Walking Horse Arena 1. Halter *2. Leadline NO ENTRY FEE (Ribbons Only) 3. Gaited Pleasure 4. Walk-Trot 17 & Under 5. Walk-Trot 18 & Over 6. Gaited Trail Pleasure 7. Western Pleasure 17 & Under 8. Western Pleasure 18 & Over **9. OPEN Western Pleasure 10. Trail

Starting at 12:30 PM - Quarter Horse Arena *11. Rescue 12. One Barrel 17 & Under 13. One Barrel 18 & Over 14. Potato Race *15. Panty Hose Race 16. Barrels 17 & Under 17. Barrels 18 & Over 18. Flags *19. Sack Race 20. Poles There will be a high point award given to the top youth and adult exhibitor. All classes on the showbill will count except the ones marked with an *. Entry Fee will be $5 a class (except Leadline and classes marked with **). Payback will be 1st $35, 2nd $25, 3rd $10 and 4th $5. **OPEN Classes will be a $10 Entry Fee. Payback will be 1st $50, 2nd $40, 3rd $30, 4th $20 and 5th $10. If you have any questions concerning the NEW Riding Mule Show, please contact Ricky StrainSmith at (931)788-1156.

These races are always fun to watch – so come on out and cheer for your favorite!

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MULE DAY 2011 – www.muleday.com

It is a never-ending pursuit to be the very best.

Quality Award Winner MRMC has been evaluated by outside organizations and compared to some of the most respected medical centers in the country. From patient outcomes to operational efficiency, we have been recognized for our quality. Top Health System (2009 & 2010) z 100 Top Hospital (2008 & 2010) z Premier Award for Quality (2009 & 2010) z Excellence Award from the Tennessee Center for Performance Excellence (2010) z

931.381.1111 1224 TROTWOOD AVENUE COLUMBIA, TENNESSEE 38401

mauryregional.com

931.381.9557 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Columbia, TN

â&#x153;Ś

Brittany Sharp 1st Runner-up

Tiffany Smith 2nd Runner-up

Hannah Lawrence 3rd Runner-up

Mary Elizabeth Rinehart 4th Runner-up

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MULE DAY 2011 – www.muleday.com

2010 Mule Day Queen

Lindsey Thomas

BEAUTY PAGEANT The Mule Day Pageant will be held on Saturday, February 26th, 2011 at 7:00 pm at Columbia State Community College in the Cherry Theater. We will crown a Queen and her court consisting of 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th runners up. Contestants must be 15 - 21 years of age, a resident or student in Maury County. Cash awards will be given to the Queen and her court. The Queen and her court make appearances at all Mule Day events, interviewed by local radio stations, newspapers, a trip to the State Capitol in Nashville, Nashville television stations, and other functions to promote our Mule Day event. Sharon Puckett, Nashville TV personality will again be the M.C. for the pageant. Contact the Mule Day office for an application or for more details.

My Farewell

Mule Day for myself began a long time ago. As a little girl all dolled up with her red cowboy boots, blue jeans, button up, cowboy hat, and red lipstick sitting on the bed of my grand dads truck across from Oaks & Nichols impatiently awaiting for the Mule Day parade to start. As the police cars and policeman came by Oaks & Nichols I became overwhelmed with excitement for I knew what was right behind them. The Mule Day Queen and her court, I’ll never forget my grand dad kneeling down as they passed by and saying, “You see those pretty girls right there.. You’ll get to be the Mule Day Queen one day.” Never in my wildest dreams would I have ever thought that I would have that opportunity one day. I first competed in the Mule Day pageant in 2008. I placed third runner-up that year. After becoming a part on the Mule Day Queen’s court I learned that this was so much more than just any other pageant. This was about someone who was not only beautiful on the outside, but as well as beautiful on the inside. Someone who could represent Mule Day with grace and intelligence while reaching out to people of all walks of life and make them all feel welcome. After my first experience with the Mule Day Court, I’ll never forget turning to Papa Dave and saying, “Okay.. I’m already excited for next year!!” I was hooked after that first Mule Day of being on the court. I spent all of the following year preparing for the next years pageant, hoping I would get the opportunity to be one of those five lucky

girls again. In 2009, the next year, I placed first runner-up and was so eager to have this opportunity again to represent Mule Day. The week flew by like Mule Day week always does, and then again I spent all of the next year preparing and praying that maybe I’d be the next Mule Day Queen. March 6, 2010 was the date of the pageant, between all the beautiful dresses, pretty girls, and top notch speeches it was anyone’s game. I remember standing back stage as they called us out for crowning, I don’t think I’ve ever been so nervous in my life. I could barely put one foot in front of the other. As they called 4th runner-up, then 3rd, 2nd, and 1st I realized that my name hadn’t been called. Then the big moment came, it was time to announce who would be queen, sure enough they called my name!! A sense of relief and joy came over me as they put the crown and sash on. For only now did I know what it really meant to be the Mule Day Queen. After spending two wonderful years on the court and learning from the previous queens, I knew that I had big shoes to fill. This year has been the biggest honor to have had the opportunity to represent Mule Day as the Mule Day Queen. During my reign as queen, I’ve had the privilege to speak to the House of Representatives and invite them to Mule Day. I also gave a speech at Ag Day on the Hill during agricultural week. During Mule Day week I had the opportunity to film with Larry the Cable Guy for his TV series “Only in America with Larry the

Cable Guy.” That was a incredible moment all in its self. During the week of Mule Day, I was able to represent the Bridle and Saddle Club along with the Mule Day committee with four beautiful ladies Brittany, Tiffany, Hannah, and Mary Elizabeth. There was never a dull moment, to say the least! As I sit here tonight writing this, I begin to realize that I’m about to hand over this wonderful title. I hope the next lucky girl takes this title and runs with it, and understands what a privilege it is to be the Mule Day Queen. To every girl that’s out there who dreams of being the Mule Day Queen, I’d like to say to her never give up on your dreams, shoot for the stars, and make it count. Because one day you could be the Mule Day Queen too. The Mule Day Queen is so much more than a pageant and dress - it’s about taking chances, living your dream, representing your community, being a role model to little girls, making friendships, memories to last a life time, and making others feel welcome along the way. I’m so blessed and honored to have had the privilege to hold this title. Your 2010 Mule Day Queen,

Lindsey Jo Thomas Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.”- Unknown

931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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MULE DAY FUNDS HELPING MAURY COUNTY

$500,000 - 2000 to 2010 Each year the Maury County Bridle and Saddle Club provide improvements to Maury County Park with the funds generated from the Mule Day event. These improvements (picnic shelter, rest rooms, fencing, paving, campgrounds, & arena upkeep) help make our event even better for the thousands of visitors who visit each year. In addition to improvements to Maury County Park, we also place emphasis on education and supporting the youth programs such as “Pony Clubs” and “4-H Clubs”. We want to teach about farm life and the great life of owning and caring for horses and mules. We have donated to thirty-five local charities and the schools along Lion Parkway who work with us during our Mule Day event. Not included in the $500,000; other non-profit groups which help with Mule Day also benefit, and use our event as their main "fund raiser". The Tennessee Tech Alumni Assoc. sells our souvenirs, and has helped 513 students obtain college degrees; The Kawanis Club and Knights of Columbus who handle our gate and parking, receive funds from us which in turn is donated to our community. The Maury County Bridle and Saddle Club, sponsors of Mule Day, and the Mule Day Committee wish to extend a special invitation to come join us and see why Columbia, Tennessee is truly the “Mule Capital of the World.”

Family Time Cash McMeen with his father, Joseph McMeen, looking over the 2009 Mule Day Program.

FUTURE DATES FOR MULE DAY COLUMBIA, TENNESSEE 2012 March 29th - April 1st 2013 April 4th - 7th 2014 April 3rd - 6th

AUTOBODY AMERICA QUALITY, SERVICE, CONVENIENCE Autobody America serves Middle TN, West TN and North MS. Log onto www.autobodyamerica.com for the location nearest you! AUTOBODY AMERICA 931-388-9988 2400 Pulaski Hwy. Columbia, TN 38401 52

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MULE DAY 2011 – www.muleday.com

AUTOBODY AMERICA 615-731-9490 530 Collins Park Drive Antioch, TN 37013

AUTOBODY AMERICA 615-848-7170 1242 S. Church Street Murfreesboro, TN 37130

September 23 & 24, 2011 Downtown Columbia Great Entertainment! Great Food! Great Fun for the whole Family! For more information, check the web site or call 931-381-7176.

SUNDAY 2:00 PM GOSPEL SINGING Local gospel singers will be performing at the Main Stage. Gospel singing will include both southern gospel and contemporary. Bring the entire family and enjoy the day. Ron Perry, Gospel Singer, will perform all during Mule Day and at the Worship Service on Sunday.

PEPSI BOTTLING GROUP

COLUMBIA, TENNESSEE

931.381.9557 – Columbia, TN

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CALVARY, GEORGIA 39th Annual Mule Day NOVEMBER 5th, 2011 Lots of arts crafts, MULES and Parade.

www.calvarylionsmuleday.com For more information call: Cairo-Grady County Chamber of Commerce 229-377-MULE or 229-377-3663 email: info@calvarylionsmuleday.com

Obituaries

Unfortunately some of our Mule Day patrons pass away. In the future, if the family of a deceased will send us correct information we will print the obituary. Contact the Mule Day oﬃce.

MULE DAYS IN BENSON, NC September 22 - 25, 2011 Midway

Fri. Mule Even

Rodeos

Mule Race

e Park h T In s s a r g Blue

Sat. Pa

rade

Street Dance Craft Show ull P e l u M Unlimited Camping & Much More Benson Area Chamber of Commerce 919-894-3825 www.benson-chamber.com

Thurs. Concert

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MULE DAY 2011 – www.muleday.com

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PARADE ENTRY FORM MULE DAY - COLUMBIA, TENNESSEE Parade is on Saturday, April 2nd

Southern Comfort – "Ride A Mule" NO POLITICAL BANNERS ATTACHED TO WAGONS

PARADE REQUIREMENTS Anyone wanting to participate in the parade should send a brief description of their parade entry to parade director D.C. Neeley 931-388-4590, or Maury County Bridle & Saddle Club 931-381-9557, P.O. Box 66, Columbia, TN 38402 by March 11th. They will be notified by mail of their lineup number by March 25th.

All entries must be in place and ready for judging by 10 a.m. Judging is in the assembly area before the parade begins and the entries will be judged on adherence to theme, originality, and appropriateness to Mule Day, Judge's decision will be final. No cars, trucks, vans or tractors will be accepted as entries except those decorated as floats, pulling floats, or carrying beauty queens, political figures, etc. No bicycles, motorcycles, go carts, dune buggies, lawn mowers or 4-wheelers permitted on parade route. No entry in the parade shall wear or display any costume, flag, sign, banner, standard or insignia, which in the sole discretion of the Mule Day Committee of the Maury County Bridle and Saddle Club, is judged to be offensive according to community standards recognized by said Committee, or which in said Committee’s sole judgment would be repulsive, or cause fear or anxiety to a large portion of the Community and/or might incite people to violence. Alcoholic beverages are prohibited in assembly area, along parade route and at Maury County Park. Anyone who does not comply will be subject to arrest and will be PULLED FROM THE PARADE ON THE SPOT. Nothing is to be thrown from or passed out from parade entries or by anyone participating in parade. ABSOLUTELY NO BALLOONS ALONG PARADE ROUTE. Likewise, parade entrants must be suitably dressed. Shirtless riders will not be permitted to participate in the parade. Dogs must be on a leash on Parade route. State Law requires that your animals have proof of an Equine Infectious Anemia Test (Negative Coggins Disease) at all events during Mule Day. This test must have been done in the last 12 months. See disclaimer on page 62. Rules continue on next page. AWARDS Best Mule & Wagon Entry - 1st place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $100.00 Best Mule & Wagon Entry - 2nd place. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$75.00 Best Pony Mule & Wagon Entry - 1st place. . . . . . . . . . . . $100.00 Best Pony Mule & Wagon Entry - 2nd place . . . . . . . . . . . . .$75.00 Best Commercial Float - 1st place. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $100.00 Best Commercial Float - 2nd place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$75.00

Best Mounted Mule Entry - 1st place. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $100.00 Best Mounted Mule Entry - 2nd place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$75.00 Best Mounted Costumed Entry - 1st place . . . . . . . . . . . . $100.00 Best Mounted Costumed Entry - 2nd place . . . . . . . . . . . . .$75.00 Best Club Float - 1st place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $100.00 Best Club Float - 2nd place . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$75.00

Description of Entry:

CHECK ONE: Animal Powered ❑ or Mechanical ❑. If you will haul a political figure please check here ❑. Name:

Length of parade entry: feet Do you wish to be judged? ❑ YES ❑ NO Phone: ( )

Address: City:

State:

ACCEPTANCE OF RESPONSIBILITY & RELEASE OF LIABILITY As consideration for being permitted by the Maury County Bridle and Saddle Club to participate in the Mule Day Parade and/or activities, I do hereby waive any claim and release the Maury County Bridle and Saddle Club and all of their owners, officers, members, affiliated organizations, land owners, agents and/or employees for any injury or death caused by or resulting from my participation in any activity.

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