Akasha Richmond is the chef/owner of Akasha in Culver City. She is using cherries from the farmers market at her bar. She cooks them in a simple syrup with spices for a cocktail garnish. Her recipe is here.
Christophe Happillon comes to several farmers markets with Carlsbad Aquafarm. Christophe says that the notion that you can't eat oysters in months without the letter "R," is an old wives tale. In August they spawn, which means that they'll be somewhat milky. However, they are safe to eat.