The gift of pie The publicity pitch is a bit florid, but the American Pie Council's intentions are, quite literally, good. "As the nation steers through a series of challenges, the American Pie Council (APC) recognizes that we still have much to be grateful for. ... " And how better to thank people than with a pie? Jan. 23 is National Pie Day and you can learn to make a better pie (or even your first) by visiting www.piecouncil.org.

Locally, "pie central" will be Golden Fig Fine Foods, 790 Grand Av., St. Paul, with John Michael Lerma, author of "Garden County Pie: Sweet and Savory Delights From the Table of John Michael Lerma" (Syren, $19.95). Rose McGee of Deep Root Desserts also will offer samples of her sweet potato pie. A pie contest and auction will raise money for the local Kids Cafe program, and members of the armed forces get a free slice of pie. Plus, prize drawings! Golden Fig is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturdays.

Nosh and judge Food trivia: On Jan. 14, 1896, Le Cordon Bleu in Paris hosted the first cooking demonstration on an electric stove. To honor that, as well as its name change to Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts, the Mendota Heights school is hosting a cooking challenge involving three teams of chefs, celebrities and students as they put their own modern twist on Poulet Sauté aux Fines Herbes. Attendees can taste each dish and vote to determine the winning team. The event is at 7 p.m. Thursday (that's tonight if you're reading the print newspaper). Tickets are $25, for a cocktail reception, appetizers, three tasting portions of the entrées and dessert. Order online for pickup there at lecordonbleu.eventbrite.com, or buy at the door (best to call 651-675-4700 in case it's sold out.) The college is at 1315 Mendota Heights Rd.

KIM ODE