Obituary – Dr. Jose Rafael Rigual MD Wednesday, April 5, 2023
José Rafael Rigual, M.D., “Chico”, age 96, passed away March 31, 2023 in Oklahoma City. Chico was born June 8, 1926, in San Juan, Puerto Rico. He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and friend.
Chico was an accomplished student and physician in Oklahoma City; also certified to practice medicine and surgery in Puerto Rico. He received his Oklahoma State Medical license in 1950, Residency of Otorhinolaryngology in 1955-1958, American Board of Otolaryngology in 1965, was a fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology in 1964 and fellow of American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. After practicing medicine for over 50 years, he took over his father ‘s business in Puerto Rico, eventually returning to Oklahoma City.
Chico served his country in the United States Army. He was awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Meritorious Service Medal for being a Ground Operations and Commander in the Korean War.
He loved spending time with his devoted wife Pat, family, and friends. He was an avid OU football fan, enjoying traveling and life. Chico had a unique style of storytelling, being a jokester and entertaining everyone.
Pat and Chico owned several World Grand Champion Tennessee Walking horses and was recognized for his contribution to the breed and inducted into the Tennessee Walking Horse Celebration Hall of Fame.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jose Rafael Rigual and Rosaura Capre of Puerto Rico, and two sisters. He is survived by wife, Pat; daughter, Maria Antonia Hill; son, Jose, R. Rigual III; daughter Angela Renee Smith, husband Kevin; five grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
Chico was truly a great man whose impact will be forever felt by his family and always carry his memory in our hearts.
A private memorial service for immediate family was held.
This Saturday Mule Day: New events, old favorites expected at biggest event of the year
Mule Day: New events, old favorites expected at biggest event of the year
PUBLISHED ON THE INTERNET FROM COLUMBIA DAILY HERALD
In less than two weeks, Columbia will transform into a town of horse and mule-drawn wagons, festive events and everything wrapped up in the city’s biggest tradition — Mule Day 2023.
The city will kick off this year’s Mule Day by welcoming the traditional Mule Wagon Train as it descends upon Maury County Park, once again, the site for the festival’s main events and attractions. And that’s just the beginning of a week-long celebration of Columbia’s historic past of being a statewide and national leader in the mule trade, as well as being a valued region for agriculture and farming.
Though Mule Day’s traditions date back to the 1800s, its current iteration overseen by the Bridle and Saddle Club and the Mule Day Committee first began with its revival in 1974.
This year’s main Mule Day events will take place from March 27-April 3, returning for the second time since cancelling twice due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 and 2021. Organizers say last year’s official return was one of the most-attended in the festival’s long-celebrated history and expect this year to be even bigger and better.
“The years ’20 and ’21, we just absolutely did not know what to do with ourselves,” Louise Mills, who oversees Mule Day’s public relations, said. “Last year, we didn’t know how it was going to work out, but it turned out fabulous. Everyone was happy to be here after being housed up for two years without a Mule Day.”
Perhaps the most-attended Mule Day event each year is the annual Mule Day Parade, which will once again kick off Saturday in downtown Columbia.
This year’s featured Grand Marshal will be “American Picker” creator, co-star and all-around historian Mike Wolfe.
Mills, who is approaching her 40th year with the Bridle and Saddle Club and 20th year with the Mule Day Office, is also being given the title of honorary grand marshal, which she is excited about participating.
“I will have my own float in the parade,” Mills said.
The full schedule of Mule Day 2023 events can be found online at www.MuleDay.com or contact the Mule Day Office at (931) 381-9557.
Mule Day means ‘astronomical’ economic impact
One thing Columbia can often count on with a large Mule Day crowd is how the event serves as a massive economic generator for the city.
In fact, the last two years of data recorded as part of a 2018-2019 economic impact study (pre-pandemic) showed nearly double the money generated over a year’s time. This included approximately $1.595 million overall economic impact in 2018 and $3.056 million in 2019.
“I’m sure last year was even greater,” Mills said. “So, this year it has got to be astronomical.”
The 2019 numbers also reflected $905,000 in hotel stays, which means more money generated to the city’s hotel/motel tax to fund tourism projects. More than $920,000 was also generated through local restaurants and food establishments. The 2019 study also states that 98% of out-of-town attendees were likely to return the following year.
The data also estimated a giant boost in attendance, with approximately 14,000 recorded in 2018 and 100,000 people in 2019.
New events meet the old traditionals
Mule Day features multiple days of events, competitions and entertainment for all ages, as well as an opportunity to explore the city’s popular business districts.
This year will feature many of the old favorites, such as the Liar’s Contest, lots of mini mules, log pulling and more.
One new event Mule Day organizers are excited to see in 2023 also happens to be one of its newest events, and one that involves our favorite fur babies as part of the Mule Day Dog Show in the old arena. Contestants are asked to bring a bag of dog food to donate to the Maury County Animal Shelter, which will serve as the entry fee.
“It’s just a fun dog show,” Mule Day Office manager Rebecca Gilbert said. “We did it last year and it was fun. We’re hoping it will be a lot bigger this year, because we have so much fun watching all of the puppies.”
See some of these cute pups in action following the Dog Show as part of the Border Collie Herding Demonstration at 2 p.m.
This year will also features the “Mule Man” Award, which Mills said “is someone who has shown a deep dedication and love for Mule Day throughout the years.”
Mule Man Terry Thompson honored
The honoree this year is Terry Thompson of Athens, Alabama, who purchased his first mule in 1990 and began riding in the annual Wagon Train in 1999. Thompson has since participated in multiple competitions and events over the years, this year taking part in timed events.
Main events will officially kick off Thursday, March 30.
For the little ones, the Little Miss Mule competition is another new event this year starting at 3 p.m. Thursday.
Each evening will feature live entertainment ranging from bluegrass music at Central High School on Thursday to live music at the Ridley 4-H Center on Friday. Bluegrass, line dancing and The Mule Town Stompers will be featured at the 4-H Center Saturday, with gospel music closing out the week Sunday afternoon on the Main Stage at Maury County Park.
Perhaps the most exciting event for many attendees is reconnecting with old friends, meeting newcomers and creating new memories that will last until it’s time to pack up and start preparing for next year.
“I personally enjoy seeing the people that come back year after year, many of them by now know me by name,” Mills said. “It’s fun for me to renew old acquaintances, to see those people that really come to Maury County to enjoy Mule Day.”
Obituary
Mr. Hoyt Rabon, age 80, passed away at his residence March 28, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. Mr. Rabon was born August 18, 1942, a son of the late Furnie and Louise Allen Rabon. In addition to his parents, Mr. Rabon was also predeceased in death by one daughter: Deborah Ann Rabon; five sisters: Zettie “Bob” Martin, Zellie Graham, Retha Mae Causey, Wilma Johnson, Anne Rabon and a special family member: Rickey Childers. Mr. Rabon was a member of Valley Forge Baptist Church. He was tough as nails and loved anything and everything to do with horses, especially racking horses. He was a trainer, farrier and horse salesman. Mr. Rabon is survived by his wife and best friend of 57 years, Mrs. Onneleise Rabon, one son: Keith Bryan Rabon (Heather); one daughter: Amy Denise Buffkin (Anthony); three grandchildren: Hannah Buffkin, Hunter Buffkin and Preston Rabon; one sister: Sarah Burnside and a special nephew: Kevin Hamill. Visitation for Mr. Rabon will be held from 6:00-8:00 PM Thursday, March 30, 2023, at Johnson Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held 2:00 PM Friday, March 31, 2023, at Johnson Funeral Home with the Rev. Randy Baker and Rev. Stevie Baker officiating. Burial will follow at New Home Baptist Church Cemetery. Memorials can be made in Mr. Rabon’s memory to: Valley Forge Baptist Church, 4440 Valley Forge Road Aynor, SC 29511.
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Published by Johnson Funeral Home on Mar. 30, 2023.
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Benefit Show and Sale Planned for Big Dave Roberts! We have some info!
Big Dave Roberts had a Horse accident March 11th. 2023 he broke his neck and 8 ribs. he also went into A-Fib while in the hospital. he has a long road of recovery and we as a Group are here to help him and his wife Joetta during this time. become a member of this group to keep up with the benefit Auction and Horse Show we are planning for them.
A horse show has been organised for the benefit. Here is the flyer for it…
TWH Industry mourns Mrs. Shirley Hege Myer
Mrs. Shirley Hege Myers, 87, passed away Friday, March 17, 2023. She was born October 12, 1935, in Forsyth County to the late Russell and Catherine Hege. Many things brought Shirley joy in life, but nothing more than her love for the Lord. She enjoyed participating in her church, baking and cooking, tending to her flowers, spending time with her husband, and going to horse shows. She was humble, kind, and so thoughtful in the way she loved others. She treated everyone like family and truly made an impact on all who knew her. She retired from R.J. Reynolds with 35 years of service.
In addition to her parents, Shirley is preceded in death by her uncle and aunt, Preston and Thelma “Teenie” Hege, her aunts, Mildred and Margaret Snyder, her sister, Edna Hege Duren (John), and her niece, Kristen Duren. She is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, Kenneth Myers, and many people in her life (and their families) that meant the world to her, including Amy Myers Brooks, Melinda Burton, Debbie Cook, Nancy Curkendall, Marie Duren Eudy, Julie “Bud” Curkendall Forrest, Nancy Gentry, Randy Jones, Jennifer Curkendall Lawson, Bryan Myers, Lib Myers, Travis Myers, Marcelino Resendiz, and many other beloved friends and nieces and nephews.
A memorial service and a visitation was held on Friday, March 24 at Konnoak Baptist Church with Pastor Dennis Hester and Pastor Mike Peters officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Konnoak Baptist Church, 400 McLean Ave., Winston-Salem, NC 27127. Online condolences may be made at www.hayworth-miller.com.
WHC POLL: Considering the element of majority opinion, do you believe the Olympic Scoring System is the best for the 5 judge Celebration panel?
WHC POLL: Considering the element of majority opinion, do you believe the Olympic Scoring System is the best for the 5 judge system at 2023 Celebration panel?
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum in Wartrace houses a one-of-a-kind collection of memorabilia related to the breed.
The “Ladies, Leaders and Legends” exhibit at the Tennessee Walking Horse Museum celebrates the achievements of women in Tennessee Walking Horse competition. The museum’s pays tribute to the women who have competed with the Tennessee Walking Horse throughout the decades, including the first female Grand Champion, Betty Sain, who took home top honors in 1966.
Known as “the cradle of the Tennessee Walking Horse,” the town of Wartrace, Tennessee continues to celebrate the iconic horse breed, and is home to a museum unlike any other in the nation.
Located at 27 Main St. E. in a historic downtown building, the Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum pays homage to the beloved horse breed, and the individuals that have dedicated their lives to furthering the breed.
Museum President Frances Bates said that while Wartrace did not “birth the baby,” but “raised him.”
Known as a gaited horse, the Tennessee Walking Horse is known for its unique motion, where they propel themselves with their hind legs.
“They are pushing and pulling off the back end, and their front feet they are basically just trying to get them out of the way of the back feet,” Bates said. “Each time that back foot comes up the head goes down and when they pull, the head comes up, this foot down, pull, so with each step they take their head nods. That is a signature of the breed.”
Bates said during the late 1800s and early 1900s, horse owners in Wartrace took gaited horses that had a good rear motion and bred them with mares that showed the same tendencies.
Founded in 2011, the museum houses a large collection of historic artifacts and memorabilia of the horse, including items from the family that bred what is considered to be the very first of the Tennessee Walking Horses, Allen F-1.
One hallmark of the museum is a collection of breeding books owned by Allen F-1’s owner, Charles Brantley. The books date from 1903 to about 1939, and document the early history of the breed.
The museum is also home to a small cherry table from the Coffee County home of James Brantley, that once stored the family’s Tennessee Walking Horse breeding books.
“In the mid-1930s, the house was hit by lighting and caught on fire, well everybody was gone, they heard about it and came running home and one of the only things that was saved was this little cherry table,” Bates said. It was by the front door, so they just picked it up and grabbed it and threw it out in the yard.”
It would be years before anyone would think to open the locked drawer in the cherry table.
“Apparently the key was lost,” Bates said. “They thought that the only picture of James Brantley was in this drawer, so they busted the top of the table out to get into the drawer and they found all these books and the picture and some other horse papers too.”
After spending years in an attic, the books along with the table, were donated to the Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum for permanent display.
The museum’s “Ladies, Leaders and Legends” exhibit pays tribute to the women who have competed with the Tennessee Walking Horse throughout the decades, including the first female Grand Champion, Betty Sain, who took home top honors in 1966.
The exhibit also features a silver rhinestone suit worn by 1961 Amateur World Grand Champion Deedy Decker.
“It weighs 34 pounds and is solid rhinestone,” Bates said. “The same people that used to make the suits for Porter Wagoner made this.”
Bates said the coat was a present to Decker from her father, who surprised her with the coat in the horse ring one day.
“She only weighed 98 pounds,” Bates said. “They bring the coat out, she gets all excited and everything, but she can’t get on her horse because she suddenly weighs 132 pounds instead of 98.”
Decker solved the problem by getting on her horse before being handed the jacket to put on.
Bates said the Tennessee Walking Horse still has a presence in Wartrace, which continues to host The Wartrace Horse Show each August.
“It has been every year since 1906, even during the war, even during COVID-19, there has always been a horse show here and it is the oldest one night horse show in Tennessee,” she said.
The Tennessee Walking Horse National Museum is open 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. For more information about the museum, or for volunteer opportunities, visit the Tennessee Walking Horse Museum Facebook page.
ALL AMERICAN RAZOR TOP FOR WOMEN @mypony.store
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WHC …Big Stake contender poll is getting intense…..results so far-poll ends Monday!
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