JARRETT GOODMAN
Staff Writer
CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children) of the Sequatchie Valley recently hosted its 8th Annual Rodeo at Coops Creek Commons in nearby Dunlap.
The rodeo was launched by CASA Executive Director Margie Clemmer, who, eight years ago, envisioned a major fundraiser to support the organization’s mission of helping children who have been abused or neglected. She believed a rodeo would be a fitting event for the area, given the region’s strong agricultural roots. Partnering with Travis Presley of Outlaw Rodeo Company from Dalton, Georgia, Clemmer helped bring the idea to life. Since its inception, the event has grown into a local favorite, drawing crowds from both in and out of state to enjoy the annual showcase.
This year’s rodeo featured many renowned riders from across the region, who demonstrated their skills in a variety of events including bull riding, saddle bronc, team roping, and barrel racing. Among the first-time participants were Callie Edwards and Shane Kuhn of Marion County, Florida. The pair travels across the Southeast to perform at rodeos with their unique animal companions—Zorro the zebra horse and Banjo the water buffalo. In an interview, Edwards shared that outside of rodeo life, Kuhn works full-time as a horse trainer while she owns the Stinky Flamingo Hair Salon in Micanopy, Florida. They have been performing together with their animals for over seven years.
Several local businesses and organizations participated as vendors at this year’s rodeo. Guests enjoyed a variety of food, beverages, jewelry, and western-themed merchandise. The Tennessee Soft Pretzel Company, based in nearby Spencer, made its first appearance, serving handmade pretzels on-site. The Game Shack Café of downtown Dunlap, a sponsor of the event, also returned for its fourth year since opening in December 2020.
Members of Trail Life, a Christian-based organization focused on teaching values through outdoor activities, also attended the rodeo. The event serves as the group’s largest fundraiser in the Sequatchie Valley, with proceeds supporting upcoming camping trips and essential supplies.
Whether through food, music, or horsemanship, all who participated—vendors and riders alike—contributed to another successful year for the CASA of the Sequatchie Valley Rodeo. The event remains a cherished tradition rooted in a meaningful cause, welcoming guests from near and far to be part of the experience each year.
