On January 31st, 2016 the Gourmet Goat hosted the seventh annual Wine and Cheese “Silent & Lively” Auction at 28 South Restaurant to benefit the Community Free Clinic of Hagerstown, Maryland. The Community Free Clinic is a nonprofit organization with a small staff and receives no government funding. The clinic is open to all no matter one’s race, gender, orientation, or age. They are fully funded by donations, and every dollar donated provides eight dollars in medical services.

The change of date due to the snow did not dent the crowd, which numbered over 100. Attendees were from all walks of life. “We saw families, men, women and children all having fun and supporting this great charity,” said one organizer. Items donated for bid and auction were varied – from jewelry, baskets, and artwork to furniture and rugs. “The Gourmet Goat’s Silent Auction has been a very important source of revenue for the clinic. We are proud to partner with the Gourmet Goat and 28 South for this event,” said clinic director Robin Roberson.

Kerensa Gray provided live entertainment. All were treated to a drag performance by the Color Purple (Shamya Banx, Staccia Tori Raype, and Lady Sofia Simmone). The ladies put on a wonderful show and all monies they raised were donated.

“I saw a lot of friendship and laughter during the event,” said one attendee. “The live auction was fun, thanks to the auctioneer. The volunteers were just wonderful making sure all were served and any needs accommodated.”

Robin Roberson said, “A special thank you to Steve Cook, Paul Deputy, our donors, and all those who attended our event and our wonderful volunteers.”

Greensburg Farms and Food Pro donated the widely-praised food for the event.

Total money raised at the time of this publication is over $15,000, with maybe a little more to come. “If you missed this benefit put it on your calendar for next year. It is a worthy cause and benefits the whole community,” said one participant. Roberson said that she is “looking forward to the 2017 event.”