Hopefully August will bring some respite from the heat we've been experiencing recently. And as someone who moved early in July, I truly feel sorry for those of you preparing to move this month. With my recent trek across town, I learned a few things about moving that I want to pass on to mixer readers. See page 8 for some tips to hopefully make your next move a little easier.

I interviewed Katie Armiger for this issue. She is a 20-year-old singer who will perform at the 26th Winterville Watermelon Festival. Armiger entered the music business when she was 14 years old after winning a local radio station contest in Texas. At her age, many young adults are still trying to decide what they want to do as career. She said she always knew that she wanted to be a singer. She'll take part in the Concert with the Stars Aug. 27 at the A.G. Cox Athletic field. Read about Armiger on page 7.

Headlining the Concert with the Stars at the Watermelon Festival is Rodney Atkins. His first release was in 1996 and he's continued to remain in the competitive country music scene since then. In speaking with him I was struck by his easy-going demeanor and his down-to-earth responses. While we spoke, he talked about his work with the National Council for Adoption and about the need for awareness and how just seeing a child smile is the most important thing. He understands the need since he was adopted as a young boy.

“It's just kinda simple,” he said.

When I asked what he does for the council, he said that he does just about anything they ask. Read about Atkins on page 6. Also on that page is the Watermelon Festival schedule.

Fountian will hold its annual Peanut Festival Aug. 19-20 with two live concerts by Trainwreck Aug. 19 and Spare Change Aug. 20.