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"Ironically, many of these street trees were replaced by other introduced invasive species such as Norway maple or callery pear," she said, "which in turn have their own impacts."

Once known as the alligator pear, the avocado traces its history to southern Mexico, where the fruit, according to some experts, was first cultivated about 5,000 years ago.

A salt-forward cheese like feta lends bright sharpness that plays beautifully with soft, sweet components like wine-poached pears or candied plums.

The next day was chilly, and I dropped in for a lunch of homemade vegetable soup, pears and cheese with some old friends, Joshua and Rene.

A yuzu and pear preserve has taken the top title at the World Marmalade Awards.