Food Network chef to host two events in Culinary Corner UND alum and chef featured on the Food Network, John Michael Lerma, is scheduled to host two events in the Culinary Corner at the Wellness Center. The events will take place Saturday, Jan. 31. "In Celebration of National Pie Day" Jan. 31, 2 p.m. Jan. 23 is National Pie Day, says the American Pie Council. In celebration, we're bringing the National Pie Champion and Food Network Challenge medal winner John Michael Lerma for a lesson in baking ribbon-worthy pie. John Michael has literally written the book on pie baking in his new cookbook, "Garden County Pie—Sweet and Savory Delights from the Table of John Michael Lerma." Come join the celebration and learn to make the perfect pie crust and learn the secrets of John Michael’s most famous pies such as his Vidalia Onion Pie, Coconut Cream Dream Pie, and his newest creation, Captain Tony’s Watermelon Pie. The event is free and open to the public. "An Evening in Tuscany" Jan., 31, 6 p.m. "An Evening in Tuscany" features John Michael Lerma in an exclusive 90-minute cooking class for 25 special guests. Let Chef John Michael cook a traditional Tuscan supper for you! While you are enjoying your appetizer of Bruchetta con Funghi e Asparagi (bruschetta with mushrooms and asparagus), and chatting with friends, he will demonstrate how to cook his fabulous Risotto con Verdure (risotto with vegetables). And as you are enjoying your entree, he will create one of his favorite Italian desserts, Torta Di Meliga (cornmeal cake) topped with a warm berry sauce. All you have to do is rest your feet, enjoy a magnificent supper, and sip a glass of Italian soda. Mangia! The cooking will begin at 6 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 31, and the cost is $45 per person. To enjoy this special evening with a great chef and host, please register by contacting Karina Wittmann via the contact information listed below. -- Karina Wittmann, Coordinator of Nutrition Services, Wellness Center, karinawittmann@mail.und.edu, 701-777-0769