South Gate Centre hosting a delicious fundraiser

Lee Griffi, Editor

Woodstock’s Tempo Restaurant and Cheesy Cow retail store have teamed up to hold a delectable evening in support of South Gate Centre.

Cheese and Cheer, a Tapas Experience, will happen on Friday, Nov. 6 at South Gate, and all proceeds will go towards paying down the debt owed by the centre.

Tickets are $110, and the event is being billed as an intimate culinary experience featuring delicious tapas with artisan cheeses, paired beverages, live music and a live auction—all in support of South Gate Centre. Only 100 seats are available.

“The idea really came together through a shared passion for great food, bringing people together and giving back to our community,” said centre Executive Director Chris Cunningham. “Chef Simon Mathias and Cheesemonger Wes Mazur both love creating unique culinary experiences, and when the opportunity came up to partner with South Gate Centre, it seemed like a perfect fit.”

She added the pair wanted to do something a little different from your typical fundraiser.

“Something where people could enjoy an incredible evening of food, drinks and entertainment while supporting a project that will benefit the entire community for years to come.”

Proceeds from the Cheese & Cheers Tapas Experience will go directly toward outfitting the Rotary Community Kitchen at South Gate with essential commercial equipment and prep stations. $15k would complete the project.

“This multifunctional space will support senior meal programs, food rescue initiatives, cooking classes, community groups and small food businesses that need access to a professional kitchen. It’s an investment that goes well beyond one evening. It’s about creating opportunities, supporting local businesses and helping feed our community,” Cunningham explained.

Helping guide everyone through the evening will be Brad Janssen, who will serve as Master of Ceremonies. Cunningham said she wants the event to feel like a fantastic night out, not just another fundraising dinner.

“Along with the food and drinks, guests will enjoy the vibrant, genre-blending sounds of the PlankLiners, great company and plenty of opportunities to mingle. One of the highlights will be our live auction, featuring Mike Crabbe as auctioneer. Mike will be helping us raise additional funds for the kitchen by auctioning off some pretty incredible locally inspired packages.”

She added it will be a fun evening with a little friendly bidding competition, all while supporting an organization that means so much to Woodstock and the surrounding community.

“Without giving away all the surprises, guests can look forward to a six-course tapas experience created through a collaboration between Chef Mathias and Mazur. Each course will be thoughtfully paired with a selection of fine wines and craft beers to complement the flavours and make the experience that much more memorable.”

Cunningham added the idea is to offer something a little different from a traditional dinner, with smaller, creative courses that allow guests to explore a variety of flavours and combinations they might not normally experience.

“And with a chef and a cheesemonger putting the menu together, you can probably expect a few delicious surprises,” she said. “This event brings together so many things they’re passionate about: great food, supporting local businesses, community partnerships and giving back to our seniors.”

Cunningham said everyone involved is looking forward to welcoming guests on Nov. 6. Whether people are coming as a couple or purchasing a table for six friends, she said it is going to be a fantastic evening for an even better cause.

“Only 100 tickets are available for this exclusive experience, and they’re going quickly! Anyone interested in attending is encouraged to get their tickets before they’re gone. And who knows? Maybe this will be the beginning of even more unique culinary experiences right here in Woodstock.”

You can buy tickets by searching Cheese and Cheer on Facebook or on the South Gate Centre website at https://www.southgatectr.com/.