The annual get together of Edible publishers took place in Santa Fe in early November, coinciding with our deadlines for this issue and the Big Sur Food & Wine Festival.
I seriously considered skipping the meetings this year, but I’m so glad I went.
Not only did I have a chance to compare notes with other Edible publishers from throughout the continent, and meet iconic speakers like former Food & Wine editor Dana Cowin and Rancho Gordo bean genius Steve Sando—there were prizes, too!
After the sessions there is an awards ceremony—our campy version of the Oscars—and Edible Monterey Bay was one of three finalists for Best Profile and Best Profile Photography for the wonderful story about Moss Landing farmer Ronald Donkervoort, An Adventurous Life, written by Emily Beggs and photographed by Doriana Hammond. We were also a finalist in the category of Best Digital Program for our weekly e-newsletters. But alas, the awards went to other publications. There are some 80 edible publications, after all, and being a finalist is quite an honor.
Then something extraordinary happened. A brand new award category was announced, Publication of the Year. Edible Communities co-founder and CEO Tracey Ryder said the honor was going to a publication “that was exemplary in its efforts to connect with the community, their pursuit of their passion to share the compelling stories of their region and to growing their engagement with their readers and community partners.”
I was absolutely stunned when Edible Monterey Bay was called out as the 2023 Publication of the Year! I barely remember what I said when I went up to thank Tracey and stammer something about what a great team we have—which is totally true.
What I do remember is a feeling of elation. There is absolutely nothing comparable to being recognized by your peers and appreciated for all the hard work that goes into every issue of this magazine.
I’ll admit we have a huge advantage here in the Monterey Bay area, with delicious, healthy foods being produced everywhere you turn, interesting characters to write about, some of the best scenery in country and a deep pool of talented journalists and photographers. But what a spectacular way to cap an excellent year for Edible Monterey Bay.
Much appreciation goes to our advertising partners for believing in us and supporting our work, and many thanks to all our contributors. This award is yours!
Happy holidays,
Deborah Luhrman
Publisher
About the author
Deborah Luhrman is publisher and editor of Edible Monterey Bay. A lifelong journalist, she has reported from around the globe, but now prefers covering our flourishing local food scene and growing her own vegetables in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
