Food-O-File

The fall fundraising season gets off to a festive start on Tuesday, September 16 when Fonda San Miguel (2330 W. North Loop, 459-4121) hosts Frida's Fiestas III to benefit Mexic-Arte Museum (419 Congress, 480-9373). The event is celebrated annually on Mexican Independence Day, Dies y Seis. The gala dinner is inspired by stylish parties given in Mexico City by renowned artists Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera during their marriage. The menu will be designed by Fonda San Miguel's consulting chef, Roberto Santibanez, who will present dishes inspired by recipes from Frida's table and some of his original creations. Guests will be entertained by Arista/Latin's teenage mariachi sensation, Nydia Rojas, who will be accompanied by Austin's Mariachi Relampago. Reservations are necessary.

Ever been to a virtual farm? If not, check out the friendly website from Boggy Creek Farm owners Larry Butler and Carol Ann Sayle at http://www.realtime.net/~boggycrk. Visitors to the virtual farm can check the current produce reports, order Tubby Totes and T-shirts by mail, delve into the history of the Republic of Texas-era property, and download seasonal recipes for cooking with their fresh, local, certified organic produce. The site was designed by Paul Leonardi of InfoMajic and features text written by Carol Sayle and inviting photos of Austin's favorite urban farm.

Nationally known macrobiotic cooking specialist Elizabeth Ortiz Foster offers a full range of cooking and healthy lifestyle courses through her Natural Epicurean Cooking School (476-2276). Introductory lectures are scheduled on September 30 and November 13 for potential students with questions concerning food energetics, acid alkaline theory, macrobiotics, and lifestyle guidance. On November 12, Foster and a panel of cancer survivors will discuss the macrobiotic approach to cancer treatment.