ALTAMONT — Two works by renowned artist and longtime Altamont resident Ed Cowley are among the “live” auction offerings at this year’s the Altamont Free Library’s Black And White (and READ all over) Gala. Cowley died on Oct. 11, 2014 at the age of 89.

This year’s gala will be held on Saturday, Feb. 7, from 5 to 9:30 p.m. in the Altamont Community Room at Village Hall.

One of the Cowley works is a signed black and white lithograph entitled “Altamont Train Station,” which measures 27 by 33 inches. The other piece is a 23-by-44-inch oil painting entitled “Barns Route 146” rendered in 1962.  These signed works have been donated by Susan Burke, a former Altamont resident.

For those looking for a travel adventure, Don and Patricia Ritter have once again donated a week’s stay in their spacious condo in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago, which is convenient to city transportation lines.

Other live auction items will include a ladies Schwinn  “Cruiser” bicycle and an offering from Snap-On Tools.

Adding to the evening is the popular “silent auction,” which will feature a wide variety of goods, services, and gift certificates from local, area, and destination locations in the Capital District.  Offerings include a beautiful, women’s silver band with sea glass inserts; dinner at area restaurants; movie passes; ski passes; items from Trader Joe’s and Honest Weight Food Co-op; a football signed by Joe Montana; and an autographed photo and the book Dr. J. by famed basketball player Julius Irving.

A dinner catered by Elegant Touch, and hors d'oeuvres and desserts prepared by the Altamont area’s best chefs will round out the evening.

Tickets to this relaxing, fun evening are $50 per person and may be purchased at the library’s circulation desk or by calling Sally Dague at 861-8341.  Group tables may also be reserved.

Editor’s note: Yvette Terplak is helping to organize the gala.