Watching colleagues discover the region’s flavors and creativity reminded me just how special our local food scene is.
Hosting the annual Edible Communities Publishers Meeting this past October was an incredible honor for us at Edible Bozeman, and for me personally as our magazine’s publisher. Welcoming fellow publishers, editors, contributors, and creative partners from across the U.S. and Canada to my chosen home of Bozeman was both energizing and deeply meaningful. We gathered to exchange ideas, to learn from one another, and to reconnect with the purpose that drives all of us: telling authentic stories about food, people, and place.
The Kimpton Armory Hotel proved to be the perfect home base for our guests. Its warm, stylish atmosphere and central location made it easy for attendees to settle in and experience the best of downtown. I was especially touched by the way our local restaurants, cafés, breweries, distilleries, and shops opened their doors to our visitors, offering them a true taste of the community I’m so proud to be part of.
Included was an evening under the big Montana sky at Bodhi Farms, where Matt Skoglund delivered his inspiring message of land and animal stewardship while we enjoyed burgers made with North Bridger Bison. Watching colleagues discover the region’s flavors and creativity reminded me just how special our local food scene is.
Throughout the conference, our workshops and conversations sparked new ideas and strengthened connections across the Edible network. Being surrounded by people who care so deeply about local food systems and storytelling reaffirmed why this work matters and why our community of publishers remains so strong.
One of my proudest moments came during the Edible Communities Awards Ceremony. Of the 10 awards given for writing and photography, Edible Bozeman celebrated two wins: Best Illustration for Sharon Glick’s expressive artwork in the Fall 2024 edition and Best Cover for Sara Gilman’s beautiful image on the Fall 2024 magazine cover. Seeing our team recognized on a national stage was incredibly rewarding and makes me feel so fortunate to have such talented contributors that make our publication possible.
As the conference wrapped up, I felt both grateful and inspired—filled with renewed energy and pride in the community we share here in Bozeman.
Jackie Page
Publisher
