Feed your mind

Slow Food hosts its annual author event from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday at Open Book, 1011 Washington Av. S., Mpls. Featured authors are Robin Asbell with "The New Whole Grains Cookbook," Amy Thielen with "The New Midwestern Table" and Diane Wilson with "Beloved Child: The Dakota Way of Life." You can buy books at the event or bring your own to be signed. In the spirit of conviviality, bring a favorite hors d'oeuvre to share. Tickets are $10 for Slow Food members, $15 for nonmembers. Visit www.slowfoodmn.org for more info.

Power up at Veg Fest

Twin Cities Veg Fest is back for its second run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at Coffman Memorial Union on the Minneapolis campus of the University of Minnesota. Organizers say the free event is for all eaters, with the purpose to connect with anyone who's "ever thought about becoming vegetarian or is interested in reducing animal suffering." Lots of vegan food samples, speakers and a concert. For details, visit http://TCVegFest.com.

Make like a Maiden

Another annual event, Maiden Minnesota, returns with a lineup of women-owned businesses touting their wares, such as food or kitchen décor companies like Table Traditions, Madesmart and Droolin' Moose. The event, from 5 to 10 p.m. Nov. 1 at the Graves 601 Hotel in Minneapolis, benefits the Makers Coalition, a movement to "restore and build the industrial sewing heritage of America." Advance tickets are $20; $30 at the door. For details, visit www.MaidenMinnesota.com.

Family cookbook workshop

You can tell we're nearing the holidays when Hella Buchheim offers her popular free class, "Create a Family Cookbook in One Day." It's from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Nov. 16 at the Minnesota Genealogical Society, 1185 N. Concord St., South St. Paul. Attendees will get a free copy of Buchheim's CD, "Plate Full of Memories," which includes charts and examples to get a family cookbook started and completed. Call for reservations at 651-455-9057.

STAFF REPORTS