Information on upcoming food classes, tastings and demonstrations can be sent to Extra, The Roanoke Times, P.O. Box 2491, Roanoke VA 24010, e-mailed to extra@roanoke.com or faxed to 981-3318. Deadline for submissions is two weeks before the event. For more information, call Nona Nelson at 981-3402.

Tuesday

Knife skills

Learn how to choose, use, store and care for your kitchen knives.

Where: Gourmet Pantry, 401 South Main St., Blacksburg

When: 6 p.m.

Cost: $55 per person

Contact: 951-1995

Wednesday

Engine 2 Diet

Lose weight the firefighter way with plant-based recipes designed to reduce fat and cholesterol.

Where: Foodies, 4054 Franklin Road, Roanoke

When: 6 to 8 p.m.

Cost: $45 per person

Contact: 776-3693

Thursday, May 14

Sushi party

The difference between maki, nigiri and inari is explained, demonstrated and sampled.

Where: Foodies, 4054 Franklin Road, Roanoke

When: 6 to 9 p.m.

Cost: $50 per person

Contact: 776-3693

Thursday, May 14

Pizza at the vineyard

Enjoy a wood-fired Dogtown Pizza while you sample Virginia wine.

Where: Valhalla Vineyards, Roanoke

When: 6 to 9 p.m.

Cost: Pizzas $10 to $15 each

Contact: 529-2868

Saturday, May 23

Pizza and cider

Sip some cider accompanied by Dogtown Pizza topped with local, organic ingredients.

Where: Foggy Ridge Cider, 1328 Pineview Road, Dugspur

When: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Cost: Cider tasting free, pizzas $10 to $15 each

Contact: (276) 398-2337 or foggyridgecider.com

- Festivals -

Friday, June 12

Wine and wags

Bring your leashed pooch along for a stroll through the vineyard and sample Virginia wines.

Where: Lexington Valley Vineyard, 80 Norton Way, Rockbridge Baths

When: 4 to 7 p.m.

Cost: Free

Contact: 462-2974