Tribute to Jeff Waite: Help Sustain Local Farming

The Island lost a great man with the passing of longtime Harbour Public House owner Jeff Waite.

Jeff was passionate about many things -- his family, his island home, and "The Pub" that is such a beloved part of our community. His passion extended to local farms and local producers. Beginning in 2002, Jeff and his wife and co-owner, Jocelyn Waite, converted the menu to feature locally grown and organic products. Over the last twenty years, they have partnered with as many as 50 local farms, fisherfolk, bakeries, winemakers, and other food producers.

A tangible way to support the future of farming on Bainbridge Island that Jeff dedicated so much of his life to would be to make a donation in his memory to the Butler Green Farm School. Longtime island farmer Brian MacWhorter founded the Farm School, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, whose mission is to teach the next generation of farmers how to steward the farmland on Bainbridge Island. At Jeff's request, a recent edition of the Harbour Public House Fresh Connections newsletter shared the story of the Farm School and encouraged the community to support its efforts.

The Farm School's educational program begins with grade school kids getting their hands dirty in their own garden plots. It provides continuing educational opportunities to the young adults who will become the next generation of farmers in our community and around the country.

Jeff's goal was to help ensure that food production would always be a thriving part of the local economy. His family suggests that you remember him by continuing to support local farms and food producers. For those wishing to honor Jeff's commitment to local food and farming, please make a donation to the Butler Green Farm School.