SHELBYVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration was a proud sponsor of the 2004 Tourism Salute to the Legislature on January 11 in Nashville.

TWHNC CEO Ron Thomas, Director Charles McDonald, and staffers Connie Nixon and Chip Walters greeted lawmakers from across the state at their booth in the carnival-style setup.

"We’ve been part of this event for many years," said Thomas. "It’s an opportunity to show our appreciation to members of state government for what they do for the tourism industry each year."

The event was organized by the Tennessee Tourism Roundtable, of which The Celebration is a long-time member.

Tourism is one of the largest industries in the state and The 2004 Celebration brought tourists into the Volunteer State from 40 states and three foreign countries. The economic impact of these visitors to the area is estimated to be over $25-million.