Gala is must-attend event of the year

This year's Columbia County Arts Charity Gala wouldn't be nearly as intriguing without the incredible artwork promoting Saturday's upcoming event.

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The poster - with the main artwork reproduced here - was drawn by Jason Lutz, who works in the Columbia County magistrate's office but envisions a career as an art educator. According to Chief Magistrate Bobby Christine, who is chairman of this year's charity event, Lutz stunned committee members by quickly sketching out the design on a notepad.

It's a fine example of some of the artistic talent that resides in Columbia County. And this Saturday's gala promises to be a fundraiser without equal for two worthwhile causes.

First, on the art side, the Vegas-style gala will raise money for the Columbia County Arts Endowment. That fund helps underwrite budding performers who want to use county facilities, such as the Jabez Sanford Hardin Performing Arts Center.

The gala also will support the Columbia County Cares Food Pantry. In that regard, it's fitting that food for the gala is being provided by "Chef Jeff" Freehof, whose Garlic Clove restaurant each year plays host to a generous Thanksgiving fundraiser for the food pantry. And at the same time, the event provides an opportunity for Freehof to celebrate 30 years in the food business.

Tickets to the black-tie-optional event cost $75, and are still available, among other places, at Columbia County Community Events by calling (706) 312-7191.

And as the slogan for the gala says: What happens in Columbia County, stays in Columbia County - including the funds raised by this event. See you there!