Slow Food Russian River kicks off the month of August by celebrating the Gravenstein Apple with a photography exhibit and reception in Sebastopol on Aug 1. The group is bringing the nit and grit of the farm and social awareness of the "Grav" together, hosting an event that showcases professional photos of the fruits and their farmers.

Gravenstein apples have stolen the spotlight as the hot ticket for Sebastopol's local produce market ever since the fruit's acreage fell victim to the expansion of the wine industry. Producers of a former town staple, Gravenstein apple farmers have faced severe economic and cultural problems in the past few years. Apple concentrate produced in China and a poor shelf life are among the many adversaries impeding the fruit's agricultural feasibility. But the Grav is crabby and fighting back, with the help of local supporters, farmers and Slow Food Russian River.

Fans of the apple will tout the fruit's tarty goodness, the perfect companion for pies, sauces and juices, at farm markets in Santa Rosa, Petaluma and Healdsburg throughout the month of August. The juicy jubilee will peak on Aug. 14–15 at the Gravenstein Apple Fair in Sebastopol. But the party starts with photos, farmers, fresh apple samples and food on Apple Season Kickoff Day, Aug 1, at Peter Lowell's restaurant. 7385 Healdsburg Ave., Sebastopol. 3pm to 5pm. An RSVP is requested to [email protected].

Send a letter to the editor about this story.