Did you know that there are more than 500 fruits and vegetables that are at risk of extinction? Slow Food USA is working hard to protect these crops, as well as hundreds of other foods and traditions. You can help too, by participating in the annual online auction. By bidding on an item you help contribute to needed funds for Slow Food USA local and national programs that protect the taste, traditions, and pleasures of food.

Slow Food Sacramento recently reorganized, with a food and wine event at the Supper Club and a farmer's market tour led by local chefs. And Slow Food Yolo has been sponsoring great events like the Village Feast (next one on Aug. 25) for several years.

There are a variety of auction items, including some from California, such as:

• Two VIP house seats to Berkeley Repertory Theater
  
• Set of signed Chez Panisse books
  
• $100 gift certificate for Niman Ranch meat
  
• Dinner for two at any Modern Mexican restaurant, including Maya in San Francisco
  

Or, bid on some items in New York, Maine, Wisconsin, or even Tuscany; try a potato of the month club, some Costa Rican coffee, or a variety of cookbooks! Start your bidding now. The auction closes on June 26.