‘Hoedown’ still Thursday, rain or shine

Published 11:42 pm Tuesday, March 31, 2009

A little rain isn’t going to stop the 14th annual Homespun Country Hoedown, Dianne Jones, director of the Andalusia Adult Activity Center, said Tuesday.

Participants might need a set of rubber boots to wade through the parking lot for the event set for Thursday from 9 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. at the Kiwanis Center, but rest assured the events are still on.

“As of yet, we haven’t had anyone to call and say they aren’t coming because of the weather,” Jones said. “I think Thursday is going to be a beautiful day, but if it is raining, what else can you do on a rainy day other than enjoy a good show?

“That’s what we’re going to have here — a good comedy show — filled with lots of laughs and good times,” she said.

Jones said this year’s entertainment will feature a comedic routine by local resident Kelly Shepherd, impressions by Alva Lambert and music by Ron Taylor and the Country Brand Band.

Contests will include the traditional hog calling contest, the Cotton Picking Cookie Contest and the High Stepping, Knee Slapping, Toe Tapping dance contest, as well as a new contest.

“This year, we’re going to crown a Mr. and Mrs. Hoedown,” Jones said. “Judging starts at 10:45, so you need to come dressed in true Country Hoedown fashion. Winners will receive ribbons and trophies.”

Cookie entries must be on the table no later than 11 a.m.

Vendors will also be on hand displaying their wares during the “Trade Day.”

“We did this last year and it was very popular,” Jones said. “One of the biggest things back then was ‘going to town’ to buy goods. We wanted to do the same thing. On Thursday, there will be arts and crafts, jewelry and more on sale.”

Jones said participants from Prattville, Montgomery, Dothan and Abbeville have committed to attend the event.

“We’ve even got several crowds from Florida who are coming,” she said. “We haven’t heard from people in Mississippi and Georgia yet, but people call up to the day to say they’re coming.”

For more information on the day’s events, contact the adult activity center at 222-6891.