A cheesy tradition: Bainbridge farmers market begins with annual cheese toss

Published 2:03 pm Wednesday, April 6, 2016

The weekly Bainbridge Island Farmers Market returned to downtown Winslow last week, bringing with it local meat, cheese and produce, floral arrangements, fresh food ready-to-eat and handmade artisan products.

The market started with the annual cheese-toss tradition, as Bainbridge Mayor Val Tollefson tossed a wedge over his back like a bride throwing a bouquet.

In addition to the more than 40 longtime, familiar core of farmers, artists and food providers, the 2016 market includes several newcomers, including Preserve, offering island jams and jellies; John Met Betty, a north island maker of custom handbags; The National Society, offering decorative paper lanterns and homemade books; and Jake’s Pick-Up, the High School Road eatery that has built a solid following for sandwiches, salads, barbecue and bakery items.