The wild pawpaw is a feast of a berry. Indigenous to eastern and southeastern North America, the pawpaw is green until it matures to a seeded spectacle of yellowish-brown, signaling that it's ready to eat. Many trace the name to the more well-known papaya. Historical rumor has it that President George Washington frequently chomped on the pawpaw as a favorite dessert.From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. today, the Anita B. Gorman Conservation Discovery Center (4750 Troost, 816-759-7300) invites the public to share in George's guilty pleasure — and other equally delightful fare — during Fruits of the Forest. The center's open house will feature fruit stands offering a bounty of wild edibles as well as arts and crafts for the kids. Bring a brave heart and an empty stomach, says Patrick Whalen, the center's education specialist. Come, be berry and get your paws on some pawpaws. Admission is free.
Sat., Oct. 4, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., 2008
