10th Anniversary Issue

Over the last 10 years, publishing edibleASPEN has transformed from the most daunting work I’ve ever done to the most rewarding, and I’m grateful to everyone who has played a role, with special thanks to our editor, Laurel Miller, for her devotion to the magazine, and for maintaining high editorial standards; to our layout designer, Kelly Alford, for her creative and stunning visual contributions; and to our copy editor, Doug Adrianson, for being beyond meticulous!

After rereading the letter I wrote for our inaugural issue in 2007, it seems fitting to share it again, as I feel as inspired today as I did 10 years ago:

"Welcome to the premiere issue of edibleASPEN, a quarterly publication dedicated to the growers and producers, restaurants, chefs and food-related businesses that are committed to providing fresh local foods from our Valley and neighboring communities.

Although I’ve lived in Aspen for more than 20 years, it was only recently that I began to truly appreciate the great bounty of Western Colorado. From the Roaring Fork Valley to the North Fork Valley, from the Eagle Valley to the Grand Valley, there is a remarkable abundance of both cultivated and wild fare.

Equally plentiful are the people who bring this fresh food to us. These farmers, ranchers, winemakers, food artisans, bakers and beekeepers are some of the hardest working, most dedicated and enthusiastic people whom I have ever had the pleasure to meet.

The value of what has been here all along has been recognized and supported by many; others are just beginning to appreciate the benefits. Eating local means fresher, tastier food, supporting farms and ranches that preserve the beauty of our landscape, and building relationships with our neighbors.

Each issue of edibleASPEN will not only be dedicated to connecting our readers with food producers but also to the restaurateurs, chefs, home cooks, specialty stores and markets devoted to using and promoting local sources. Our intention is to empower readers with the information required to make informed decisions on how to best support and enjoy the products of our foodshed.

Thank you to my husband, Sam, and our children, Andrew, Hart, Taylor and Sammy, for their encouragement and support, and to our writers, photographers and advertisers for their commitment to this publication. With great pleasure I look forward to bringing each issue of edibleASPEN to our community, and through its pages invite you to discover the authentic foods from our area and those committed to bringing them to your table."

Savor the season!

Lisa Houston, Publisher

lisa@edibleaspen.com