From the Publisher: Summer 2022 

Every new issue is a journey. I start with an idea—an inspiration—and Maria and I work to refine it, redefine it, and churn it and then pivot. Frankly, I drive her crazy. However, before too long, we do solidify the folks we plan to feature, and it’s through them that I get truly inspired. It’s their stories that create an experience for you on every page of each new issue.

The so-called theme for this issue is “All Aboard” and “We’re gonna need a bigger boat!” Although landlocked, Vermont is a short distance to the New England shores where fresh seafood is obtained daily. Our beautiful farms provide ingredients for inspired cheese and charcuterie boards, and throughout the summer, we gather with friends and family for outdoor picnics, grilling, and dining.

Features in this issue include Alanna O’Neil’s The Art of Picnics: Seasonal Outdoor Entertaining. Alanna, now a Maui resident, grew up in Vermont and in this book she shares tales, recipes, and tips from her childhood picnics. Enormous gratitude to Jason Zuliani, founder of Dedalus Wine Shop, Market & Wine Bar, and to his team Ashley, Nicole, and Chef Jeremy for their generosity of time as they immersed us in the Dedalus experience. Angela Gerace, congratulations on your Good Food Awards! Maria and I have trouble making it out of our cars without literally digging into a newly purchased jar of your Tipsy Pickles—consider us obsessed. Jenna, Jacob, and Bob of Baird Farm Maple and Jamie of Hamilton Cattle Co, we are inspired by your camaraderie and mutual support; thank you for all you do to steward the land with passion and humor. And Elizabeth Roma and your team of women butchers, your ethos is beyond admirable. I took a different path—I’m the granddaughter of a butcher from Pittston, Pennsylvania. Grandpa Sam was a skinny man with large hands, and little did I know at the time that not everyone feasted on roast beef or brisket on Friday nights.

Now living near Manchester, I personally can’t say enough about Earth & Sea Fish Market—Bob, Kait, and Yvonne—and Al Ducci’s Italian Pantry—Robin, Patti, and Jodi—and you all know it! Thank you for feeding my family for all occasions throughout the years and for being there daily during the pandemic. Your support for the community is unwavering.

While delivering magazines, of course I’ve relished Chef Sean Blomgren’s prowess with seafood at The Lodge at Spruce Peak’s Tipsy Trout several times since it opened. If you haven’t dined there, it’s a must.

Thank you Edible Boston for “Edible for Kids™” created in partnership with Barefoot Books, Inc. And also thank you to Lieutenant Governor Molly Gray and Maria for introducing me to Salvation Farms and to the inspirational work they do, led by the visionary Theresa Snow.

Have a terrific summer, and please come aboard our Edible Vermont boat.

Marcia Lissak