Mayor’s Whistling & Yodeling Contest

Saturday, July 17 at 3:00 p.m.

Cottage Grove City Hall

400 E. Main Street

In Cottage Grove’s early days it was common place to see miners dressed in new clothes and freshly bathed strolling along the street whistling the tune of a happy and satisfied heart. With the advent of portable music in the 20th Century, the art of whistling a tune is seldom heard anymore.

Cottage Grove Mayor Gary Williams, a big fan of both whistling and yodeling, wants to see this tradition continue long into the future. This is why he has invited Mitch Hilder of Eugene,  who is in the Whistler’s Hall of Fame and teaches whistling, to attend BMD this year and demonstrate his whistling and yodeling talents.

In 2008, Mitch traveled to Japan to emcee the International Whistling Competition. He keeps the Vaudeville era alive with his stage show that includes yodeling, playing several instruments. He also does “skat” and, of course, whistles.

If you enjoy whistling a favorite tune (not wolf whistling) the competition is open to all comers to show Mitch, the Mayor and the audience what you can do. It’s also a great opportunity to introduce younger generations to this simple and traditional form of musical entertainment that predates the I-Pod.

For more information call the BMD Office at [541] 942-5064.