September 1, 2023

Letter from the Team #26

By Christopher Ellis-Jacobs

As the leaves turn and we welcome the crisp air of fall, we at edible MAINE are excited to share our latest issue with you. This season, we’ve chosen to center our stories around the “family” theme, a concept that holds a special place in our hearts.

Family, in its many forms, is the backbone of our lives. It’s the support system that keeps us going, the shared laughter that brightens our days, and the unconditional love that enriches our days. For me, the owner and publisher of Edible MAINE, family is the driving force behind everything I do. My amazing husband is my rock, providing unwavering support and encouragement in every endeavor. And our twin boys, with their boundless energy and infectious joy, are a constant reminder of why I do what I do. Even on the longest, most exhausting days, their smiles are a beacon of light that keeps me going.

As we celebrate family in this issue, we’re thrilled to welcome a new member to our Edible MAINE family. Maggie Knowles has joined us as our new Editor in Chief. While some of the stories in this issue were planned by her predecessor, Maggie and I have worked tirelessly to shape this issue into a new beginning for Edible MAINE.

Maggie brings a wealth of experience, a fresh perspective, and a deep passion for the local food scene. We’re excited about the energy and creativity she brings to our team, and we can’t wait for you to see the incredible work she’s been doing.

In this issue, you’ll find stories that celebrate the bonds of family, both biological and chosen. You’ll read about local food producers who are keeping family traditions alive, communities that are coming together to support each other, and how our relationships with food and each other can create a sense of belonging.

As you turn the pages of this issue, we hope you’ll find inspiration in these stories and perhaps see reflections of your own family experiences. After all, we’re all part of the larger family that is the Maine food community, and our shared passion for local, sustainable, and delicious food brings us together.

Thank you for being a part of our Edible MAINE family. We’re so glad you’re here.

Cheers,

Chris and Maggie

About the Author

Christopher Ellis-Jacobs

Christopher, a passionate food enthusiast and devoted locavore, is the owner and publisher of edible MAINE. With many years of experience in the restaurant industry, he brings a wealth of culinary knowledge and an unwavering commitment to the local food movement. Spending much of the year as a resident of Greenwood, Christopher’s family delights in cultivating their home garden and enjoying the fruits of their labor throughout the long Maine winters. As the driving force behind edible MAINE, Christopher has led the magazine through its first five years of publication, overcoming challenges and embracing the messy moments that come with building a successful venture. Inspired by the sense of purpose and community that edible MAINE has fostered, he continues to steer the magazine toward new heights while celebrating the talented team members, dedicated readers, and local artisans who contribute to its growth. Christopher invites readers to join the journey, exploring the vibrant local food scene and the inspiring stories that connect us all. As a true believer in the power of food to bring joy and foster connections, he is dedicated to supporting a thriving local economy, a diverse environment, and a well-informed public. With an open seat at edible MAINE’s table, Christopher encourages everyone to read, reach out, and support the magazine's mission.