Last December, Washington State witnessed some of the worst flooding in its history, causing widespread damage. Our friends at Black Sheep Creamery suffered greatly in the floods, losing more than 50 beloved sheep and finding their 100-year-old farm veritably in ruins. Since then, they have slowly been getting back up on their feet, returning to the cheese kitchen to craft their award-winning cheeses.

To help them in their rebuilding efforts, Beecher's Handmade Cheese and The Tasting Room in Pike Place Market have teamed up to host a special introduction to cheese class on Friday, May 2, 2008, from 6:00 to 8:30 p.m., with 100 percent of the proceeds going to Black Sheep Creamery. Join Beecher's founder and owner Kurt Dammeier as you learn to recognize different types of cheese, explore the history of artisan cheese, participate in fun, interactive cheese and wine pairings, and much more.

Cost is $50 per person and registration is required.