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Noted chef to teach at culinary school

Mary Cech, considered one of the top pastry chefs in the country, recently joined the faculty at the Park City Culinary Institute, 7720 Royal St. A native of Ohio, Ceche had previously worked for Talisker creating gourmet chocolates and high-end desserts for the company's two Park City properties: Talisker on Main and Powder (formerly Spruce) at the Waldorf Astoria.

Earlier in her career, she was one of five instructors selected to launch the Culinary Institute of America's Greystone campus in California's Napa Valley, helping design the curriculum and teaching courses. She worked as the pastry chef at Charlie Trotter's, helping the famed Chicago restaurant earn its 4-star rating, and was named Pastry Chef of the Year by Chefs in America.

The author of two cookbooks, Cech will be teaching several days a week at the Park City culinary school. Applications for winter programs are due Oct. 1. Visit parkcityculinaryinstitute.com for more details.

Giant pumpkin growers on film

"Rise of the Giants," a feature-length documentary about giant pumpkin growers in Utah and around the United States, is making its premiere in Utah. Before and after the show, viewers can take a picture with a 500-plus-pound pumpkin.

When • Saturday, Sept. 20, 4 p.m.

Where • Thanksgiving Point Theatre, Museum of Ancient Life, 2935 Thanksgiving Way, Lehi

Tickets • $7.32 at the box office or in advance at eventbrite.com

Food activist to speak at Jackson conference

Marion Nestle, an author, food activist and pioneer in the national food movement, is the keynote speaker at FoodSHIFT, a sustainable food festival in Jackson Hole, Wyo. The event takes place Oct. 8-12 and runs concurrently with SHIFT, Jackson's fall conservation festival. FoodSHIFT will explore food, sustainability and health through workshops, classes and dinners prepared by local chefs. For more details, visit: shiftjh.org/2289-2/ .

Oktoberfest celebration in Sandy

Enjoy German food and music during this Oktoberfest celebration at Grace Lutheran Church and School. The festival includes a German marketplace, vendors and activities for children. The winners of the second Bier Brauen, a home-brewing contest, will be announced at 5 p.m.

When • Saturday, Sept. 20, noon to 9 p.m.

Where • Grace Lutheran Church, 1815 E. 9800 South, Sandy

Details • gracesandy.org

Harvest Moon Festival in Ogden

Food, a farmers market, live music, Criterium races, activities for children, and a wine and beer garden for adults can all be found at Ogden's 13th annual Harvest Moon Festival.

When • Saturday, Sept. 20, noon to 10 p.m.

Where • Ogden's Historic 25th Street

Details • historic25.com

Merco Local throws a block party

Merco Local, a Utah business that promotes local products through monthly sample boxes, will celebrate its first anniversary and the opening of its first store with a block party. The event includes local food, beverages, live music and raffle for prizes.

When • Saturday, Sept. 20, 6-9:30 p.m.

Where • Merco Local, 4659 S. 2300 East #203, Holladay

Admission • $1

Wine and cheese for a good cause

The 12th annual Wine & Cheese Party is a benefit for the Crossroads Urban Center, which helps feed, clothe and provide services to low-income residents. Guests will enjoy food from Tony Caputo's Market and Harmon's as well as several varieties of wine.

When • Sunday, Sept. 21, 1 to 4 p.m.

Where • The Bayou, 625 S. State St., Salt Lake City.

Tickets • $45 in advance or $50 day of the event. Tables of eight available for $360.

Buy • Online at crossroadsurbancenter.org or 801-364-7765, extention 107 or 112. Also available at Crossroads Urban Center, 347 S. 400 East, Salt Lake City, during business hours.