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Wimberley – You ask, “Who the heck ever heard of a mashed potato cook-off in Texas!?” Barbecue, chili, and crawfish boils are the norm in these parts. But that’s okay. This cook-off event certainly qualifies as “a first,” and falls in with the local “Keep Wimberley Weirder” theme.

“We view this as an event that will be both gastronomically uplifting and good community fun,” said event organizer Bob Ochoa. “All who enjoy a good plate of mashed potatoes will enjoy this.” Ochoa is a member of the board of trustees of Unity Church of Wimberley, the event sponsor.

Three outstanding local personalities will serve as cook-off judges: Linda Allen of Linda’s Fine Foods, Dave Lewis of Juan Enrique’s Restaurant and Hays County Judge Liz Sumter. A $100 cash prize will be awarded to the best of show dish. Musical entertainment and local food vendors will be on hand to add some extra flavor.

The cook off will be held Saturday October 24, at the beautiful hilltop Unity Church, about 2 miles east of Wimberley off FM 3237. Take the Red Hawk Rd exit. Stay to your left, go over the low water bridge, and up the hill. The 43-acre grounds are gorgeous.

“It’s a great setting for a cook off,” said Ochoa. “We have a sweeping view of the surrounding hills, nature trails, a sacred labyrinth, junior olympic size pool and tennis courts. The place has an interesting and storied history. It once was a part of a large ranch owned by the Moody family of Galveston.”

Bring your family out and your best dish of mashed potatoes (with extra for the tasters). Play a game of tennis or take a tour. This is a “shine only” event. It will be rescheduled in the event of rain. Gates open to the public at 10 a.m. Entrants can bring their dishes already prepared or cook on site with their own self-contained cookers and ice chests for creams and garnishings. Judging starts at 12 noon.

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For more details email potato@unityofwimberley.com or visit the church web site, www.unityofwimberley.com. Telephone 512-847-6587.