This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2016, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

Two Utah finalists in PETA's Sexiest Vegan Contest

Two Utah residents are finalists in the 2016 Sexiest Vegan Next Door contest, sponsored by PETA. Dexter Thomas of Salt Lake City and Aaron Long, Ogden, are two of 10 male contestants to advance to the final round. Fans have until Tuesday, June 7, at 10 a.m. to cast their ballot at PETA.org. Two winners — one man and one woman — will be selected based on several factors, including vote count.

Thomas, a transgender man who became a vegan at 17, is a doctoral student at the University of Utah. He led a successful campaign for vegan meal options in his high school cafeteria and even persuaded his family — who grew up in rural Utah among cattle ranchers — to go vegan. He has worked with the Utah Animal Rights Coalition to oppose rodeos and mentored LGBT youth.

Long is in the Air Force Reserves and works full-time as an F-22 aircraft specialist. During active duty, he persuaded other airmen and women to eat more vegan foods and order quality synthetic instead of leather boots.

Last year, Victor Ivan Barragan, of West Valley City, was the male winner of PETA's Sexiest Vegan Next Door contest.

Celebrate the Farmers Market at annual fundraiser

The Downtown Farmers Market holds a kick-off party and fundraiser Thursday with food and libations from some of Utah's favorite producers, live music and a silent auction. All proceeds benefit programs at the market.

When • Thursday, June 2, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Where • Squatters Pub Brewery, 147 W. 300 South, Salt Lake City

Tickets • $50; or $90 per couple at slcfarmersmarket.org

Details • The Downtown Farmers Market begins its the 2016 season on Saturday, June 11 at Pioneer Park.

BBQ expert brings "Project Smoke" to SLC

Television chef and barbecue expert Steven Raichlen will sign copies of his newest cookbook, "Project Smoke: Seven Steps to Smoked Food Nirvana." Smoking is quickly becoming the new way to cook in the backyard, as more than 18 million smokers and grills were sold in the United States in 2014. In "Project Smoke," Raichlen demystifies the process and shows cooks how to smoke meats, vegetables, cocktails and even desserts. Capt. Len's BBQ Truck will be serving recipes from the cookbook, which sells for $22.95.

When • Saturday, June 4, 2 p.m.

Where • Kings English, 1511 S. 1500 East, Salt Lake City

Cost • Books available for $22.95; pre-order a signed copy by phone 801-484-9100 or online at kingsenglish.com

Buzzing about the Honey Bee Festival

Learn the important role bees play in our food supply during the 6th annual Honey Bee Festival. Families can enjoy honey and food tastings, watch beehive demonstrations, and participate in various crafts and workshops, including backyard beekeeping and gardening; sponsored by Slow Food Utah.

When • Saturday, June 4, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Where • Sorenson Unity Center, 1383 S. 900 West, Salt Lake City

Cost • Free

Food and wine at a 'Toast to Good Health'

Tickets are available to the annual "Toast to Good Health." The annual event includes food and wine tastings and helps raise money for the 4th Street Clinic, which provides health care for homeless Utahns.

When • Thursday, June 9, 6 to 9 p.m.

Where • Caputo's Market and Deli, 314 W. 300 South, Salt Lake City

Tickets • $150 per person; RSVP by Friday, June 3, at 385-234-5726 or laurel@fourthstreetclinic.org