Let's preserve

With produce soon to come in, Mississippi Market Natural Foods Co-op is presenting a canning and preserving course series, ranging from beginner basics to specialty classes using pressure cookers, but also info on freezing and fermenting. The pressure canning class on July 14 includes info on safely preserving low-acid vegetables, meats, soups and sauces. Extensive handouts provided. Cost is $30. The class on countertop fermentation Aug. 11 explores pickling without canning or vinegar, using ancient fermentation methods. It's $28. For a full schedule, and to enroll, visit www.msmarket.coop for a complete listing of classes and course descriptions. Registration is available online, by phone at 651-690-0507 or in stores at the customer service desk. Class fees due at time of registration.

Prideful beer brewers

We're broadening our definition a bit here, but beer also is "cooked," right? As part of this weekend's Twin Cities Pride Celebration, 25 local breweries including Herkimer, Bad Weather Brewing Co., Dangerous Man and Boom Island are part of a craft beer sampling from 5:30-9:30 p.m. Friday in Loring Park. Advance tickets are $35 (cash only) at these St. Paul locations: The Beer Dabbler Store, 1095 W. 7th St.; The Ale Jail, 1787 St. Clair Av.; Thomas Liquors, 1941 Grand Av.; and at Four Firkins, 5630 W. 36th St., St. Louis Park. Or order online at thebeer­dabbler.com. Tickets are $45 at the door, if tickets remain on event day.

In addition, Commuter Connection and Metro Transit are providing festival-goers with free Metro Transit passes that can be used to get to and from the festival, which also notes that Drink & Drive intelligently (DDi) is a safe transportation option from the festival if you've sampled your way through too many beer options. Call 651-338-1425. Flamenco Organic Coffee is handing out souvenir tumbler cups and cold-pressed coffee for the designated drivers.

STAFF REPORTS