By Ralphine Major

I looked at the leafy, green lily bush now wilted by summer’s stifling heat.  I see leaves that have already fallen from trees and try to decide, is it still summer—or early fall?  July brought a flurry of “Christmas in July” events including special promotions and sales, a line-up of favorite Christmas movies, and a local television station’s toy drive.  Hopefully, the hot and humid days will wind down as area festivals are gearing up!  The Grainger County Tomato Festival brings July to a close.

On Saturday, August 20, 2016, from 1 p.m. – 9 p.m., the 3rd Annual House Mountain Hoedown takes place “in the shadow of House Mountain,” at the corner of Shipe Road and Washington Pike in Corryton, Tennessee.  This year, the Americana Music Festival features the legendary Phil Leadbetter and The Leadbetters who are so well known to this area!  “What a great opportunity for the community to celebrate and enjoy his music close to home,” Kelly Shipe told me.  The 2014 Dobro Player of the Year is a three-time cancer survivor who has toured the world and performed with some of the greatest in bluegrass music.  Several other performers for the event include Dixie Ghost, Leah Gardner, Sarah Kate Morgan, Knox County Jug Stompers, JJ Easy, and the Survivors.  Tickets are $10, and proceeds go toward the preservation of the pavilion and park which are open to the community year-round.  For more information contact Washington Church at (865)688-7755, Kelly Shipe at (865)314-2161, or www.housemountainhoedown.com.