The Japanese - both the airlines and the buyers - pay premium prices for as many Bing and Rainier cherries as they can get, Strawberry Connection owner John Stoudt said.

The overseas demand drives prices up for the American market, he added.

So, enjoy the large Northwest gems while you may at a produce best-buy price of $1.49 per pound at Star Markets.

Other stores in the red with Bings include Sack N Save ($1.57 per pound), Foodland ($1.69), Times ($1.99), Safeway ($2.99) and Strawberry Connection ($3.25 for specially packed, first quality).

Choose cherries that are brightly colored, shiny and plump. They should be firm but not hard. Stemmed cherries are a better buy; however, those with stems last longer.

Store unwashed cherries in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. The fresh globes contain minor amounts of vitamins and minerals.

Other good buys include nectarines and red flame grapes for 99 cents a pound at Safeway, and tomatoes for 59 cents at IGH (Independent Grocers of Hawaii).

Fresh island fish is another great catch. Foodland and Tamashiro Market offer a'u (marlin), while Star serves up aku (skipjack tuna) - all at or right under $4 per pound for fillets or chunks.

Finally, if you're seeing white, consider three ears of fresh white corn for 89 cents at Times Super Market, or succulent White Lady peaches for $1.58 per pound at Daiei.

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