Tastes of Bainbridge

Becky Fox Marshall, Spokesperson for Town & Country (T&C) Markets and Joe Pulicicchio, Director of Produce and Floral join us today on Tastes of Bainbridge to discuss how T&C on Bainbridge Island is dealing with COVID-19. They remind us that food and other supplies remain in good supply and that while some items may not be available from time to time, most things will remain fully stocked and always available.  There is good discussion around the idea of continuing to shop as one normally does and no need to purchase in large quantities. They discuss several of the measures the company has taken with cleaning and on-going sanitizing, care of their employees and different hours of operation.  Joe also talks about some of the fresh produce currently available and some of the things we can expect soon during this normal period of transition into the spring.  Credits: BCB Host: Robert Ross; Audio Editor: Keith Doughty; Publisher: Keith Doughty.

Joe Pulicicchio, head of Produce and Floral, and Michael Fodness, head of Meat and Seafood for T&C Markets, join Bob Ross in this episode of Tastes of Bainbridge to talk more about the many foods associated with the Christmas and New Year’s season.  Squash varieties, a wide selection of citrus, and seasonal berries are discussed with Joe on the produce side while Michael reminds us of the bountiful fish opportunities in addition to many unique cuts of lamb, pork and beef available through the end of the year. As both experts and respected leaders in their fields, Joe and Michael bring a deep background of experience and perspective to the table and provide an informed and rich dialogue about this important aspect of the season. Credits: BCB Host: Robert Ross; Audio Editor: Chris Walker; Publisher: Chris Walker

Two directors of the Town and Country Markets leadership, Joe Pulicicchio, head of Produce and Floral and Michael Fodness, head of Meat and Seafood, join us in this episode of Tastes of Bainbridge to consider the kinds of things we might find on our holiday tables.  Joe and Michael engage in a lively discussion about personal favorites and some important things to consider as we construct seasonal shopping lists. In addition to more traditional and classic holiday fare explorations, the concept of Friendsgiving is discussed and how this is finding its way into the popular vernacular.  Of course, a discussion of best ways to make mashed potatoes ensues with some side comments regarding polenta found on Joe’s grandmother’s table. The importance of fish, especially in the Christmas menu is also discussed and the availability of Dungeness Crab and prawns with a slight hint of lobster taste are explored.  Credits: BCB Host: Robert Ross; Audio Editor: Keith Doughty; Publisher: Keith Doughty

Joe joins Tastes of Bainbridge host, Bob Ross to talk about important fall produce that we should all be thinking about. He discusses very early sumo mandarins, the extraordinary 2019 chanterelle mushroom crop and a new up and coming apple called the ‘Sugar Bee.’   He discusses the appealing tastes of the currently available Bartlett pears, the soon to arrive comice variety that is known for its excellent pairing with cheeses and just what a ‘conditioned pear’ is.   Credits: BCB Host: Robert Ross; Audio Editor: Robert Ross; Publisher: Robert Ross

Joe Pulicicchio, Director of Produce and Floral for T&C Markets returns to Tastes of Bainbridge with host Bob Ross to explore what’s happening in fresh produce as we head into late summer in the Pacific Northwest.   He has a sweet spot for peaches but shares some wonderful insights about strawberries, blueberries, cantaloupe and the best way to cook corn on the cob.  He also suggests some special ways to deal with mushrooms and how to reserve them for best applications during the colder months.  This is Joe at his best!  Credits: BCB Host: Bob Ross; editor and publisher: Chris Walker

Matt Glenn, one of the proprietors of Highside Distilling, joins BCB host Bob Ross on Tastes of Bainbridge to discuss his family’s decision to move full time into the craft beverage industry.   Inspired by a trip to the Highlands region of Scotland, the idea for starting this new business with his parents Helen and Jeff was born.  Subsequent trips to Scotland clarified their vision, and a firm commitment was made to open their establishment on Bainbridge Island. A new addition to the Bainbridge Island Farmers Market, Matt discusses their unique approach to making gin, the various aromatics used, their venture into Amaro’s, and plans to eventually make quality whiskies. For further information, surf to https://www.highsidedistilling.com/  or visit 8895 Three Tree Lane NE during their business hours.  See the website for hours. The Bainbridge Island Farmers market is located between City Hall and Bainbridge Performing Arts on Saturdays 9am to 1pm. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; audio tech: Chris Walker; audio editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher, Chris Walker.

Fans of the Finnriver Cider Garden in Chimacum will be thrilled to hear their fabulous ciders are now available at the Bainbridge Island Farmers Market. Listen here to learn more about their organic farming and fermenting activities. In this podcast Molly Fallon, one of the Cider Garden managers, talks about their array of seasonal ciders and fruit wines and the several experiences one can have at the Cidery, from tasting to tours to exceptional culinary delights. Molly also discusses the beautiful art work by local artists for their labels.  Stop by the Farmers Market to sample their ciders every Saturday, or you can visit their farm and cidery. Located in Chimacum, Washington, the farm is open 12 - 9 pm daily.  Check out their website at www.finnriver.com. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; audio editor: Chris Walker; publisher; Diane Walker.

If you're a big fan of mushrooms, you need to visit the new Patchwork Gardens booth at the Bainbridge Farmers Market.  Listen here to learn more about Russell Lawson and the many varieties of mushroom he sells at the market. Whether you're in the mood for a giant oyster, king or shaggy mane mushroom, the Bainbridge Farmers Market is the place to be on Saturdays from 9 am - 1.  Listen here as Russell Lawson, proprietor of Patchwork Gardens, tells us what it takes to bring these and other fresh delights to the Market each weekend.   A new vendor at the Market, Russell discusses his move into growing mushrooms, what motivated this change in farming for him, and how science and technology have played key roles in his success. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; audio editor: Chris Walker; publisher; Diane Walker.

Challenged by the winter snows? So are our grocery stores! Listen here as Town and Country's Joe Pulicicchio describes the best of winter produce, stocking challenges during snow events, and T&C's recent decision to MOVE THE PEPPERS! This month's big news is that T&C's peppers and chilies have moved to a new and very colorful display on the back side of the mushroom shelves, opposite the bulk nuts display. Joe explains the rationale behind the move and elaborates on some of the many attributes of these tasty delights and various ways to prepare them.   He also describes what looks and tastes good in February, what we can expect moving into March, and what challenges markets face as they struggle to keep fresh and healthy produce on the shelves during difficult weather events. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; audio editor: Chris Walker; publisher: Diane Walker; Social media: Jen St. Louis.

Listen here as T&C's Joe Pulicicchio joins Bob Ross and Michael Fodness, Director of Meats and Seafood for Town and Country Markets to talk about seasonal meats, seafood and produce items. In this rich interaction about popular cuts of meat, seasonal seafood, and traditional holiday items from the produce department, the three exchange favorite recipes and methods of preparation.  It’s a jolly conversation. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; audio editor: Chris Walker; publisher: Diane Walker; Social media: Jen St. Louis.

Purple brussel sprouts, peeling parsnips, and perfect potatoes: T&C's Joe Pulicicchio is back to tell us about the best produce for your holiday meal. Our old Tastes of Bainbridge friend, Joe Pulicicchio, Director of Produce and Floral for T&C Markets, returns to the BCB studio this week to talk about the fresh produce scene as we enter the holiday season.  From how to cook Brussels sprouts and the need to peel parsnips to the best way to prepare potatoes and what type of potato to use for various dishes, Joe helps ensure your Thanksgiving Dinner will be superb. There’s also a fun venture into the use of color and how it is used in the produce department. And, of course, citrus season is upon us and his perspective and advice is delightful. If you care about food, be sure to listen to this one! Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; audio editor: Chris Walker; publisher: Diane Walker; Social media: Jen St. Louis.

Meet one of the newest additions to the Bainbridge Farmers Market: Frank Ralph, the Owner of Fishgirl, a company solely dedicated to the harvesting of wild and sustainable seafood. In conversation with BCB host Bob Ross, Frank discusses his 30 years of experience and what he has discovered is the best tasting seafood available.  Frank and his wife and co-owner, Claudia, are are firmly committed to the concept of individually caught fish, immediately blast frozen with a “fresh caught” lock date in place.  Meet Frank at the Market Saturdays 9 am to 1 pm. and be sure to review his impressive array of frozen and tinned seafood, sauces and spice blends. For more about Fishgirl, visit their website at: www.fishgirlseafood.com Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; audio editor: Chris Walker; publisher: Diane Walker;Social media: Jen St. Louis.

It's time for the annual 4H Chicken Pageant at the Farmers Market, and Tastes of Bainbridge producer Bob Ross is on hand for the festivities. The 4H Chicken Pageant is a delightful event in which 4H members and their respective fowl dress up in costumes and parade for the audience.   Host Bob Ross talks with 4H leader Jennifer Amaden and her son Kaden about the 4H organization and how 4H involvement helps teach children responsibility while building character and compassion. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; audio tech and editor: Chris Walker; publisher, Diane Walker.

Meet Carolyn Goodwin, food buyer for the Market at Bay Hay, and learn about the challenges and excitement of keeping a small market stocked with exclusively local food products. In this podcast, Carolyn joins host Bob Ross to tell us about the Market's evolving identity. From a tiny non-profit selling local produce at the ferry unloading area a few years ago, the market moved to a small refrigerator in the corner at Bay Hay and has now become a small but thoughtfully well-stocked market providing a remarkable variety of locally-grown foods and other products. With strong support and encouragement from owners CeAnn Parker and Howard Block, the Market at Bay Hay is thriving with excitement and new items almost daily. Credits: BCB host and audio tech, Bob Ross; editor and publisher, Diane Walker.

Joe Pulicicchio, Director of Produce & Floral for T&C Markets returns to Tastes of Bainbridge to share his insights on the best produce for summer. Talking about everything from berries to avocados to red potatoes, Joe provides a keen insight about some of the challenges of making sure produce arrives at the optimum peak of color, taste and freshness.   Listen here to learn the best way to eat sweet corn and learn of the best summer treats about to arrive. Credits: BCB host, Bob Ross; audio tech and editor: Chris Walker; publisher, Diane Walker; social media: Jen St. Louis.

In this podcast Taste of Bainbridge host Bob Ross talks with Christoph Schuler, the creator and owner of D’Bäck German Bakery, about his tasty organically baked pretzels. You'll want to listen closely as Christoph reveals the secret southern German technique that produces the warm brown crust and the soft bread-like interior of his beautifully formed pretzel twists, sticks, rolls and sandwiches.   Learn more about Christoph’s unique and tasty creations at www.swabianpretzels.com and find D’Bäck German Bakery at the Bainbridge Island Farmers Market each Saturday 9:00 am until 1:00 pm. Credits: BCB host, Bob Ross; audio tech and editor: Chris Walker; publisher, Diane Walker; social media: Jen St. Louis.

Isaac Swanson is an artisan whose  hand blown glass is regularly featured at the Bainbridge Farmers’ Market. In this podcast, Isaac joins host Bob Ross to share the story of his work and talk about what motivated him to enter the unusual craft of creative glass blowing.  It's a curious story of moving from barista to glass and about his entry into the field on the night shift in Seattle.  For Isaac, glass blowing is a metaphor for life. Would you agree? Listen here and decide for yourself -- and be sure to stop by the Farmer's Market to appreciate his work! Credits: BCB host, Bob Ross; audio tech: Finn Mander; audio editor: Bob Ross; social media publisher, Diane Walker.

Listen here as Tad Mitsui, life long island foodie and chef on Bainbridge Island and his new partner, Jess Goldwater, tell us about their taste-tempting plans for their new Heyday Farm Store venture.  Talking with Tastes of Bainbridge producer Bob Ross, these new owners of the well loved local food purveyor in Lynwood share their enthusiasm for food and produce, and we learn how their chance meeting and their common passion for food brought them together to embark upon this exciting new endeavor. Credits: BCB host, Bob Ross; audio tech: Chris Walker; audio editors Bob Ross and Diane Walker; social media publisher, Diane Walker.

This week Tastes of Bainbridge host Bob Ross discusses the season's produce with Joe Pulicicchio in Joe's native habitat: the Town and Country produce section in Winslow.  Walking through the aisles, Joe introduces us  to fruits like the cute Rockit apples (a perfect size for Christmas stockings!), the specially cared for Comise pears, some of the interesting berries that have lasted late into December, and of course the various kinds of oranges so popular this time of year.  Seasonal favorites like chard, kale,  leeks, fennel, and endives capture our attention, and there are also fresh chives and figs to be seen.  Joe gives us a tip on how to save money when buying mushrooms, and explains how dried mushrooms can be used even when the recipe calls for fresh.  (We believe Joe pronounced all the japanese mushrooms correctly, but what do we know?) Credits: BCB host, Bob Ross; audio tech and editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher, Diane Walker.

From Brussels Sprouts, garlic and green beans to squash, mushrooms and citrus, this is the time of year when we really count on particular varieties of fruits and vegetables to make our holiday meals a feast. With this podcast, BCB's Bob Ross is back from Italy to talk with T&C's Joe Pulicicchio, director of produce and floral, about what's in store for everyone's favorite November meal. The two discuss the produce that typically finds its way to the Thanksgiving table with some interesting observations and suggestions, and Joe shares his philosophy about the uniqueness of this very American holiday. Best of all, you'll get the inside scoop on some unusual squash, some different approaches to mushrooms, the best way to prepare a quintessential batch of holiday mashed potatoes, and a new fig that's guaranteed to knock your socks off! Credits: BCB host, Bob Ross; audio tech and editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher, Diane Walker.

Why would a UC Berkeley grad choose to intern on a Bainbridge Island farm? Meet Rachel Bubb and learn why growing healthy food became a priority for her. Rachel Bubb is a 2017 farm intern for Bainbridge Island's Butler Green Farms. In this episode of Tastes of Bainbridge, she joins us at the Farmers Market to talk about how that came to pass. Speaking with BCB host Bob Ross, Rachel shares how her education at UC Berkeley opened her eyes and mind to the importance of making well grown, healthy food available to all. She talks about growing up in Southern California, about her gradual and significant transition to understanding more about the issues of global food security, and about her decision to learn first hand the basics of growing hardy and robust food.  Whether you've considered going into farming or are just curious about why someone would make that choice, you'll want to listen here: Rachel provides a thoughtful, well informed perspective on the subject, including where she is thinking about going with her education, and what the next steps might be in a life connected to agriculture. Credits: BCB host, Bob Ross; audio tech and editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher, Diane Walker.

In this episode of Tastes of Bainbridge, Joe Pulicicchio, Director of Produce and Floral of Town and Country Markets, brings his associate Melaine Cherry, manager of the T&C Floral department, to the BCB Studio. Melanie, who manages the day to day operations of all things floral for each store, shares her thoughts about flowers and how they are recognized as necessary items of beauty important to all of us as well as symbols of the changing seasons. Together the two discuss seasonal variations and expectations with regard to fruits and flowers, with some special emphasis on the popularity of chrysanthemums and melons as we move into fall. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; audio tech and editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker.

The clatter of metal buckets and the squeals of children: everyday sounds, this time of year, at Bainbridge Island's u-pick blueberry farm. Listen here as Bainbridge Island Blueberry Company owner Stacy Lewars joins us on Tastes of Bainbridge to tell the story behind her surprising venture into the farming of blueberries, a fruit long recognized as highly beneficial and rich in anti-oxidants. Why purchase a farm previously run by a single family for several decades? Standing in the midst of her several hundred blueberry plants, Stacy discusses her passion for this work and shares some of the many uplifting stories of individuals and families who've visited and picked through the seasons. Speaking with BCB's Bob Ross as she welcomes customers and shows them where and how to pick, Stacy provides an insightful view of seasonal changes and the complex maintenance and care required for these extraordinary plants. Blessed with a bumper crop this year, Stacy will be making her first appearance at the Bainbridge Island Farmers Market with Blueberries from her farm this Saturday, September 2.  You can also visit her Facebook page at Bainbridge Island Blueberry Company. Credits: BCB host, Bob Ross; audio editor and social media publisher, Diane Walker.

This week BCB's Bob Ross welcomes Tom Clark, who along with his wife Holly owns and operates Clark Farms, purveyors of pork and beef at the Bainbridge Island Farmers Market. Located just north of Sequim, Washington, Clark Farms dates back to the late 1800's, and is the longest running family-owned farm in the state. What's it like to carry on such a long-standing family tradition? Tom, who has a degree in Animal Science/Meats from WSU, shares with us his stories about growing up on the family farm, and describes some of the other ventures he tried before returning to what was in his blood from the start. . . farming.   Speaking from his booth at the market (and occasionally shouting to be heard over the helicopter that was hovering nearby!), Tom also describes some of the challenges of farming, raising healthy livestock, arranging for processing, meeting safety standards, and making those trips to the various Farmers Markets each week.   And -- if you're a fan of Clark Farms meat, there's good news: starting this week, Clark Farms beef and pork products are now being carried at Bay Hay and Feed.   For more about Tom and Holly and Clark Farms, visit their website at www.clarkfarms.weebly.com Credits: BCB host, Bob Ross; audio editor and social media publisher, Diane Walker.

Summertime, and the produce is ripe! Wondering which fruits and veggies to pick up for your summer picnics? Listen here as Joe Pulicicchio, Director of Produce and Floral for Town & Country Markets Inc. returns to Tastes of Bainbridge to discuss the mid summer produce scene.  In this podcast we learn what are some of Joe's favorite summer taste treats, with a special look at the many melon varieties available. We'll also get his insight into some of the particular growers whose produce  will soon be coming available.  Joe’s regular overview of the produce scene reminds us all how critical the delicate balance between weather and the human condition can be when working to provide fresh, healthy produce on a regular basis. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; BCB audio editor: Diane Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker.

In this episode of Tastes of Bainbridge, author Kathryn Lafond talks with BCB's Bob Ross about her new cookbook, Seasoned with Gratitude.  Unlike the many other cookbooks currently flooding the market, Kathryn's book focuses upon the sacredness of all life, both plants and animals, and it is that understanding that guides the preparation of the 250 recipes in this wonderful tome of over 500 pages.  Each delicious recipe begins with a brief observation, quotation or blessing that brings the would-be chef to stop, ponder and give a few moments to consider the bigger picture. Combined with the charming illustrations and the tasty treats suggested (do check out the Thai salad!), the result is a thoughtful and altogether delightfully new approach to preparing daily and special occasion meals for every level. Meet Kathryn at her official book launch at Eagle Harbor Books on Thursday, July 20, or, better yet, come taste her wares at T&C in August (listen here for details of that event.) Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; BCB audio editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker.

Looking for the inside scoop on avocados? Check this out! Joe Pulicicchio, Director of Produce and Floral for Town & Country Markets, once again joins Tastes of Bainbridge host Bob Ross in the new Media Arts & BCB Studio at the BARN to discuss the current produce scene.  In this session,  Joe provides and interesting and detailed account of the avocado, the wild ride of this year’s production, and tips on tasting, selecting and best ripening techniques. Stay tuned to BCB for this on-going series, in which Joe and Bob continue to explore the complex behind-the-scenes planning and design that assures fresh and nourishing produce on a regular basis. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; BCB audio editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker.

In this interview, Joe Pulicicchio, Director of Produce and Floral for Town and Country Markets, begins by reminiscing about 2016, one of the best years ever for produce.  But 2017, with its cooler temperatures and unprecedented rainfall, presents some significant challenges. Listen here as Joe discusses the difficulties posed by 2017's first quarter weather patterns and describes what the current produce situation looks like. It's an excellent reminder that both the quality and quantity of the produce that will make it to our grocery shelves depend upon a delicate balance of weather and growing conditions. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; audio editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker.

Peter Weber, president of the Bainbridge Island Farmers’ Market and co-owner of Farmhouse Organics, joins us on Tastes of Bainbridge to talk about Farmhouse Organics and the 2017 Market Season. Farmhouse Organics has been a long time major anchor for the Market. In this lively interview, with BCB's Bob Ross, owner Peter Weber shares the story of how he and his wife Anne came to Bainbridge and started farming. He provides an interesting overview of seasonal changes, talks about some of the challenges of farming, and discusses the educational merits of the intern programs that help our local farmers survive.  Peter then puts on his Market President hat to tell us about 2017 plans for the market, some of the new vendors, and how the market is broadening its audience. To learn more about Farmhouse Organics, visit www.farmhouseorganics.com. And to learn more about the Bainbridge Island Farmers Market, be sure to check out www.bainbridgefarmersmarket.org/. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; BCB audio tech and editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker.

We know winter's finally coming to an end when we gather to watch the mayor toss the cheese! Yes, it's time again for the opening of the Bainbridge Island Farmers Market, and the annual ceremonial Tossing of the Cheese -- this year by island mayor Val Tollefson. Join BCB host Bob Ross as he chats with Val about our iconic market and its importance to the Bainbridge Community, and then listen in for a sneak preview of the coming season with the new Treasurer of the Farmers Market, Jessica Osborn.  Jessica's enthusiasm for the market and its plans for 2017 are sure to be a bright spot in your day... Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; BCB audio tech and editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker.

Who would think that a chance meeting in a ferry engine room would lead to a whole new way of looking at food! BCB's Bob Ross, host of BCB's Tastes of Bainbridge series, met Forrest Nichols, Executive Director for the Wild Society, while on a guided tour of a Washington State ferry. Somehow Bob and Forrest, who works as an engineer on the ferries, fell into a conversation about food, and before long Bob found himself attending a Wild Society film festival in Kingston called For the Love of Plants. The Wild Society is a nonprofit outdoor education organization based in Kitsap County, and offers camps, classes, food gathering techniques and community events, all designed to inspire a sense of love and connection with the natural world. In this podcast Forrest joins host Bob Ross to discuss the relationships between human hearts, food and the everyday wild. An energetic and passionate outdoors person, Forrest shares his love of growing mushrooms and his special and intelligent approach to preparing food for outdoor adventures.  To learn more about the Wild Society, visit www.wildsociety.org. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; BCB audio editor and social media publisher: Diane Walker.

In this edition of Tastes of Bainbridge, meet Anne Willhoit, one of the key ‘behind the scenes’ players in the development of the Kitchen Arts Program for  BARN (Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network). Anne joins host Bob Ross to discuss some of the exciting new Kitchen Arts plans being put in place for BARN's permanent facility, which is currently under construction and scheduled to open in May.  Listen here and learn about some of the history of the Kitchen Arts program, the many ongoing classes available and get the skinny on the serious commercial kitchen now under construction at BARN.  For more about Kitchen Arts and the 10 other BARN programs, visit bainbridgebarn.com Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; BCB tech Chris Walker; BCB audio editor and social media publisher: Diane Walker.

From BCB... https://www.bestofbcb.org/tast-036-holidays-with-joe-pulicicchio/ In this podcast Joe Pulicicchio and Bob Ross talk with T&C Markets Becky Fox about the past year's adventures in produce and what to expect in 2017. Becky, who serves as Web Content, Social Media and Advertising Manager for T&C Markets, joins Bob and Joe for their last interview for the 2016 year. Together they reminisce about their past discussions from early spring through the seasons and discuss some of the differences between planning for Thanksgiving and planning for Christmas meals. Joe and Becky each offer their own personal perspectives about holiday food and what it means to them, and share with us some of what lies ahead as we consider what we might expect in terms of fresh produce as we head into the 2017 season. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; BCB audio tech and editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker.

From BCB... https://www.bestofbcb.org/tast-035-pizza-with-brendan-mcgill/ Join BCB's Tastes of Bainbridge host Bob Ross as he talks with Brendan McGill,  chef/owner of Hitchcock, and pizzaiolo Brandon Thompson, his partner in their new venture: Bruciato. Bainbridge residents have been watching with interest as significant changes take place in the facade of the old Winslow Hardware.  Yes, a new pizza place is coming to the island, but this isn't just any pizza: it's classic Neapolitan pizza.  Bruciato pizza will be cooked in an Italian oven and prepared with tomatoes from Italy by chefs who've been specially trained in Naples.  Now expected to open in early to mid December in the heart of town (at 240 Winslow Way East), Bruciato has been in the works for three years.  Listen here as Brendan and Brandon discuss the commitment they made to learn the cherished and highly respected techniques of this type of pizza. From the slow fermentation process of the dough to the required use of authentic San Marzanno tomatoes and the delicate treatment involved in building each pizza, the two restaurateurs share their excitement about their new venture, discuss some of the locally sourced toppings they plan to use, and describe their designs for the exciting space to come. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; BCB audio editor: Diane Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker.

From BCB... https://www.bestofbcb.org/tast-034-talking-turkey-with-joe-pulicicchio/ Did you know that Thanksgiving isn't the best season for green beans? or that what we sometimes call yams are really sweet potatoes? This month Joe Pulicicchio, Director of Produce and Floral for Town & Country Markets, joins Tastes of Bainbridge host Bob Ross to take a tour along the Thanksgiving table. After a brief soliloquy about pumpkins, we learn which fruits and vegetables are most likely to be fresh and tasty for your Thanksgiving meal: potatoes, yams, beans, squash, cranberries -- you name it, Joe can tell you where it comes from and even -- sometimes -- how to cook it!  PS: If you're worried about those green beans, don't be: try their one-pound bag of French beans, add a little Garlic Expressions dressing, and your guests will be thrilled! Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; BCB audio editor: Diane Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker.

From BCB... https://www.bestofbcb.org/tast-033-friends-of-the-farms/ Heather Burger, the Executive Director of Friends of the Farms, is our fun and informative guest on this edition of BCB's Tastes of Bainbridge series.  Heather talks about growing up in the midwest, its influence on her attitudes about food and farming, how that led her to the significant position that she now holds.  Obviously passionate about and joyfully committed to her leadership role, Heather discusses the mission and values of the Friends of the Farms Organization.  The primary goals of FOF are to expand the amount of publicly-owned farmland, to educate our community about local agriculture and to provide opportunities for new farmers. Heather also explains how folks can support the organization both financially and through the many volunteer opportunities available.  And, in closing, she provides an enlightened and thoughtful discussion about the many ways Islanders can support and participate in local agriculture. For more information about Friends of the Farms, visit their website at http://friendsofthefarms.org. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; BCB audio editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker.

From BCB... http://bestofbcb.org/tast-032-farm-intern-catherine-nguyen/ In this podcast BCB host Bob Ross introduces us to Heyday Farms intern Catherine Nguyen. Nguyen, a recent college graduate, stopped by our booth at the Bainbridge Farmers Market to discuss her interest in food and the deep commitment she has developed about making healthy food available to all.  Catherine talks about her decision to choose Bainbridge Island as a place to do an internship, and tells us what it's like working with Brian MacWhorter of Butler Green and Heyday Farms.  We also learn about the journey that led her to becoming a farmer during her studies.  Listen here and learn about one young woman's dream for a future in food and agriculture and hear about the role she sees herself playing in that future. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; BCB audio editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker.

Under the guidance of chef Melinda Lucas, Bainbridge Island Museum of Art’s bistro has evolved into a full service, full menu restaurant popular with both museum visitors and local residents. Listen here as chef Lucas shares the story behind the Bistro's evolution from grab ‘n go food bar (making precooked, prepackaged food sourced from vendors), to a limited menu food bar with lunch items cooked internally by a chef, to a full service, sit-down restaurant with an expanded menu. Originally trained as a pastry chef, Melinda’s menus are varied - both hearty and light, seasonal, fresh, and always delicious. She describes her cooking style as simple and basic, with fresh, organic, locally sourced ingredients whenever possible. And did we say she's a pastry chef?  Ask the locals: her chocolate chip cookies and ricotta pound cake are to die for! In addition to Melinda, the bistro now has a catering chef, Marcielle Herring, who is responsible for the menus and preparation of food for special events, which include museum events, such as member preview parties, and also events booked by companies, organizations or individuals.  So now, in addition to the expanded chef-prepared lunch menu, the BIMA bistro offers special dinners on Tuesday evenings to accompany the museum’s continuing film series, and offers catering for special events at the art museum.   So -- the next time you get a chance, stop in and sample the new wares at the BIMA Bistro: you won't regret it! Credits: BCB host: Channie Peters; BCB audio editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker.

From BCB... http://bestofbcb.org/tast-030-joe-pulicicchio-on-fall-produce/ Joe Pulicicchio, Director of Produce and Floral for Town and Country Markets, returns to the BCB broadcast studio to talk with host Bob Ross about some of the squashes and other items becoming available as we begin Fall and the holiday time of the year. While continuing to focus on the current produce available, and the challenges of bringing fresh, top quality materials to the shelves of a major local supermarket, Joe also looks back through the past year and discusses some highlights of seasonal changes. This summer, Joe feels, was one of the best he can remember for cherries and other stone fruits. But it's already time for him to begin looking to the future: here are some of the things he's thinking about as we head into the last quarter of 2016 and prepare for 2017. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; BCB audio editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker.

From BCB... http://bestofbcb.org/tast-029-farm-interns/ In this episode of Tastes of Bainbridge, Li Schmidt and Ruven Stein, two of Brian MacWhorter's summer interns at Butler Green, Farms talk about being farm interns. Listen here and learn what motivates them and why they have chosen to pursue this work in agriculture and food.  The two interns, both college graduates, are articulate and thoughtful in their discussions as they share how they first got interested in food production and what their thoughts and aspirations are as they look ahead. For all those who worry about millennials and what they bring to today's culture, this interview presents us with encouragement for a surprisingly bright and rosy future. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; BCB audio editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker.

From BCB... http://bestofbcb.org/tast-028-heyday-farm-chickens/ In this, our first in-the-field interview for Tastes of Bainbridge, we talk with Brian MacWhorter about the egg and poultry operation at Heyday Farm. Join BCB host Bob Ross as we walk around the farm, meeting the animals and talking with Brian, a well known Bainbridge Island farmer and owner of Butler Green Farms. You'll also meet Catherine Nguyen, a summer intern at Heyday Farm, and learn more about being a farmer and the internship program.  Brian's deep commitment to educating young people about agriculture, food and sustainability comes through strongly in the interview: listen and learn! Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; BCB audio editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker.

From BCB... http://bestofbcb.org/tast-027-bainbridge-island-fruit-club/ This week Darren Murphy, president of the recently formed Bainbridge Island Fruit Club, comes to the BCB broadcast table at the Farmers’ Market.  Listen as Darren tells BCB host Bob Ross about the newly formed club, its goals and expectations, and the many club activities happening now and planned for the future.  Darren discusses many of the more typical fruits grown on Bainbridge and some of the challenges of managing them from planting through harvest.  An obvious expert in fruit cultivation and management, he talks about apples, pears, plums, grapes, and many more fruit varieties.  He also has strong thoughts regarding using fruit for food complete with some creative recipe suggestions. The Bainbridge Island Fruit Club (BIFC) meets once a month throughout the year.  Visit www.bifruitclub.wordpress.com   to learn about upcoming meetings and applications for membership. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; BCB audio editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker.

From BCB... http://bestofbcb.org/tast-026-joe-pulicicchio-chili-roast/ T&C's Joe Pulicicchio returns to the Taste of Bainbridge series as we further explore how a major local grocery business can constantly make top quality fresh produce available on a regular basis through the changing seasons of the year. As the Director of Produce and Floral for Town & Country Markets, Inc., Joe provides new insights about the challenges that need to be addressed as various fruits and vegetables reach peak flavor and ripeness and make it to the shelves at just the right time.  In this interview he discusses the end of berry season and the excellent melons of all types and flavors that are just becoming available.  A highlight of the discussion is the fast approaching chili roasting season and Joe explains what dates in August the roasting will take place and at what stores.  Roasting chilies in late summer is time-honored tradition with wonderful aromatic benefits and making the chilies more accessible for exceptional recipes. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross BCB audio editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker

From BCB... http://bestofbcb.org/tast-025-heyday-farm-creamery/ Heyday Farm Creamery proprietors Vicky and John McGarrity visited the BCB Tastes of Bainbridge booth at the July 30 Farmers’ Market. Listen here as the McGarritys explain why they have moved their entire operation to Bainbridge Island from Hansville to join the Heyday Team. Now producing their signature goats milk cheeses on Bainbridge, they'll soon be offering cows' milk cheeses, and by next spring they plan to bring out sheep milk cheeses.  Vicky and John are committed to achieving the highest level of quality in the food they produce.  Here they discuss some of the processes that are required to produce their cheese varieties, including the unique pasturing system that allows them to grass feed their animals and use a barley fodder process when fresh grass is hard to find. And did you know you could hear taste?  We decided to try: there was an on-air tasting that explored the various and subtle differences in the cheeses. Listen and see if you can feel the flavor! Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; BCB audio editor: Chris Walker; social media publisher: Diane Walker.

From BCB... http://bestofbcb.org/tast-024-jon-garfunkel-on-educulture/ Last week at the Farmers Market BCB host Bob Ross joined EduCulture founder Jon Garfunkel. EduCulture focuses on building bridges between K-12 schools and their community, with an emphasis on edible education, heritage and human rights education and a strong core of hands-on student-centered programs.  In this podcast Jon explains the importance of getting students out on the farms and into the fields to learn everything from how to sow seeds to various growing techniques and best harvesting methods.  A fervent and dedicated educator, he strongly believes in the need to reach out to young people and teach them about how food is grown and where it comes from.  Later in the program we hear from another dedicated educator of young folks, Farmer Brian McWhorter of Butler Green Farms and Heyday Farm. To learn more about EduCulture, be sure to check out their website at http://educultureproject.org/ . Credits: BCB host Bob Ross; audio editor Chris Walker; publisher Diane Walker.

From BCB... http://bestofbcb.org/tast-023-joe-pulicicchio-on-melons/ This discussion, the fourth in our series with Director of Produce and Floral for Town and Country Markets, Joe Pulicicchio, is all about berries, peaches, avocados and melons.  Now that the berry season is wrapping up, Joe talks about some of the challenges of accessing the best avocados, including the importance of waiting for the right oil content and why the current supplies are a little pricey. For all you melon fans, Joe is happy to report that melon season is just around the corner.  He reports that melon lovers can expect a wide variety to be available this summer. In conclusion, he wraps up the interview with some thoughts about the upcoming Hatch green chilies season which will begin towards the end of July.  The roasting process, which which will be held at Central market sometime around the end of the month, creates one of the best summer smells. The roasted chilies will be available for purchase in various quantities. Joe’s popular blog ‘FRESH TALKER’ can be found at the Town and Country website:  www.central-market.com      Credits: BCB host Bob Ross; audio editor Chris Walker; publisher Diane Walker.

From BCB... http://bestofbcb.org/tast-022-joe-pulicicchio-on-fruit/ This week T&C Produce and Floral Director Joe Pulicicchio  talks about this year's berry, peach, and apricot crops and shares a few favorite recipes. In this, our third interview of a 6 part series, Joe, the knowledgeable and dynamic Director of Produce and Floral for Town and Country Markets, talks with with BCB host Bob Ross about the intricacies and challenges of growing and delivering top quality strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries. Joe also touches on the upcoming apricot and peach season and explains the important role weather plays in the whole growth and delivery process -- and don't miss what he has to say about favorite recipes! This series of BCB interviews is designed to explore the many types of fresh produce one finds at T&C Markets, including behind the scenes stories about how and where they are grown and how arrivals must be scheduled to meet customer expectations. For more about the challenges of delivering fresh produce, visit Joe’s popular blog ‘FRESH TALKER’ on the Town and Country website:  www.central-market.com. Credits: BCB host Bob Ross; audio editor Chris Walker; publisher Diane Walker.

From BCB... http://bestofbcb.org/tast-021-chef-judith-weinstock/ On the scene at Bainbridge Island's May 28 Farmers Market, BCB Host Bob Ross talks with chef and author Judith Weinstock  about her history with the Streamliner Diner, her cookbooks, and her tasty baked goods. In this podcast, self-described Food Muse Judith Weinstock discusses her philosophy about food and why she made a commitment early to make this her life’s work.  Listen here as Jude describes her early involvement with the very popular Streamliner Diner, her eventual move to developing the Kingston Hotel Cafe and the two cookbooks that came from those ventures. She is currently working on a book about kids and food and cooking and is committed to the concept of teaching children about food and where it comes from early in their development.  Judith is well known for the occasional but sumptuous Sunday morning brunches she serves at her residence on the back patio (also known as The Underground Cafe).  For more about those Sunday morning adventures, visit her Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FoodMuseInspirations/ . Credits: BCB host Bob Ross; Audio editor Chris Walker; publisher Diane Walker.

In this 30-minute podcast conversation with Steve Romein and Ty Cramer, we meet the husband and wife who are the founders and innovators at a uniquely Bainbridge Island farm, store and destination for lodging and farm-kitchen meals, Heyday Farm. This podcast is a combination of personal stories and anecdotes by Ty and Steve, and a set of insights into the latest new offerings of an innovative island farm and business. Steve talks about growing up in a traditional farm community in the mid-west. Ty describes how they found the properties that became their farmlands. They explain that their goals include benefiting the local community, preserving its history, and showing how delicious the food can be when raised with healthy and holistic farming practices with hands-on care. We learn about the organic and intensive agricultural methods that have been a Heyday signature from the start. And we go behind the scenes with Steve into the secrets of managing the animal kingdom's own best source of compost and fertilizer. Plus, you can listen in for what's happening on the produce side with new partner and long-time island farmer Brian McWhorter, and in the egg and poultry farming operations. And then there's the dairy creamery. You can hear about the increasingly popular Heyday Farm lodging program which is attracting a widening range of overnight guests. And then there's the farm kitchen with menus by executive chef Tad Mitsui that are making it a destination for those who love good food. We hear about the growing product line at the Heyday Farm Store that is helping to make Lynwood Center a dinner-planning destination. Bob Ross, who conducts BCB's interviews at our local farmers market is our host with Steve and Ty in our BCB studio. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; BCB audio editor and social media publisher: Barry Peters.

From BCB... http://bestofbcb.org/tast-019-david-adlers-fstopcafe/ In this chapter of Tastes of Bainbridge in our Farmers Market series we meet David Adler, the official Bainbridge Farmers Market Coffee provider.  With three years of being the key provider of a variety of coffee drinks to Market visitors each Saturday, Dave explains what led him into a serious connection to coffee and why he feels it’s important to pursue making the very best coffee beverages he can make. The owner of FSTOPCAFE, Artisan Coffee Roasters on Bainbridge Island, Dave explains the process of how and where coffee is grown and the many aspects of roasting and grinding coffee beans to achieve the very best quality he can.  A native of Brooklyn, New York, he made his way west to San Francisco as a longshoreman and eventually migrated to the coffee capitol in Seattle, and served as a professor at the University of Washington before taking on coffee in a serious way. David doesn't just sell coffee at the market; he sells his beans as well: you'll find them at Via Rosa Italian Kitchen, Jake’s Pickup and the Hungry Bear. Credits: BCB host: Robert Ross; audio editor: Chris Walker; publisher: Diane Walker.

From BCB... http://bestofbcb.org/tast-018-composting-with-john-barutt/ In this episode of Tastes of Bainbridge John Barutt, locally known as the ‘Maestro of Composting’, explains the processes involved in starting a simple compost pile and how to keep it active and useful in your own garden. John is part of the Ann Lovejoy’s Friday Tidy Volunteer group that meets each week at the Library gardens to keep them looking vibrant and well maintained. Speaking with BCB host Bob Ross, John explains how he was first recruited into a composting leadership role and had to learn the craft on his own by seeking advice from others, reading and experimenting. These days John can be found most Fridays in the small composting yard located in the southeast corner of the library property; he's happy to answer questions and just talk about composting. Credits: BCB host: Bob Ross; audio tech and editor: Chris Walker; publisher: Diane Walker.