SWOCC release - Coos Bay, OR – The Southwestern Foundation and Oregon Coast Culinary institute invite the community to an engaging evening of food and wine at the 2026 Winemaker’s Dinner, held in partnership with Abacela Winery on Saturday, May 16.  Hosted at the Oregon Coast Culinary Institute (OCCI), this annual event brings together the community for a thoughtfully curated dining experience. OCCI Executive Chef Randy Torres and his culinary competition team will present a multi-course menu, with each dish paired alongside award-winning wines from Abacela Winery.  Adding to the experience, Abacela Winery CEO Greg Jones will share the story behind the vintages, offering guests a deeper look into the distinct character of their unique wines. The evening is a blending of culinary artistry with firsthand insight from one of the region’s premier wineries.  100% of proceeds from the Winemaker’s Dinner directly support innovation and equipment needs within OCCI's program, helping ensure students continue to train in a modern kitchen and graduate prepared for careers in the food and hospitality industry.  Tickets & Event Details:  Date/Time: Saturday, May 16 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.; Location: 1988 Newmark Ave. in Coos Bay; Tickets: $190 per person. Limited seating.  Visit www.socc.edu/give to reserve your seat or call 541-888-7209.  About the SWOCC Foundation:  Since 1962, the Southwestern Foundation has supported the College to improve people’s lives – socially, culturally, economically and educationally – through friend-raising and fundraising. The College serves Curry, Coos and western Douglas county residents’ needs for transfer degrees, high-skill job training and community classes. For more information about the foundation, visit www.socc.edu/foundation or contact the Foundation office at 541-888-7209 or [email protected].