Tickets on sale now for Mayor's Race Dinner in Cottonwood

Photo courtesy of Gayle Harrington

Chainsaw art such as this nearly life-sized statue will be offered at auction to benefit the Cottonwood Community Library during the annual Mayor's Race Dinner, set for 5 p.m. Oct. 24 at the Cottonwood Community Center.

The Cottonwood Community Library kicks off its fall fund-raising season with the annual Mayor’s Race Dinner, set for Saturday, Oct. 24, in the Cottonwood Community Center.

Tickets are on sale now for an event that is sure to be sold out, said Gayle Harrington, director of library services.

The evening will include a fun-filled evening of authentic Dutch oven-style cooking, followed by a "good ol’ boy cowboy-style auction," Harrington said.

Doors open at 5 p.m. with dinner following at 6 p.m.

Mayoral "candidate" Paul Walther and his gang will cook in their famous fired-up Dutch ovens.

“The food and the style of cooking itself will be a draw for the evening, let alone the great auction items that will be available,” states Harrington.

Event tickets are on sale now and will be available at the library during regular business hours or from any member of the library's board of directors. Cost is $30 per person for adults.

No tickets will be sold at the door.

“The event promises to be a sell-out, so I would encourage everyone to get their tickets early”, notes Harrington.

Because Cottonwood is unincorporated, there are no true government officials. So for many years, non-profits and organizations get together to hold a mock mayor’s race. Proceeds from the event benefit the sponsoring organizations.

This year, Cottonwood Community Library has endorsed Paul Walther, a well-known figure in the Cottonwood community, as its 2009 candidate for mayor.

“The Walther family has always given so much back to the community with their time and talents. We feel it is time to show recognition and thanks for their generosity”, declared Harrington.

“Luckily, Paul Walther agreed to the challenge, and even went so far as to offer to do all the cooking for the evening, which is a special treat for all attending the event,” she added.

Some items available for auction include a chainsaw-carved wooden Indian, a cowboy-themed quilted wall hanging, vacation packages, a custom sports-themed concrete bench, handmade rawhide reins, a golf package, jewelry and many more items.

The library depends upon the evening's proceeds to maintain its many services, so competitive bidding is encouraged.

For more information or to obtain tickets, contact Harrington at 347-4818.