Summertime Brings Communities to Life

Gone are the days of bundling up and hunkering down. Now is the time to get outside and do all of the things that feed our souls and connect us with neighbors, friends and family. Playing in nature, outdoor music, gardening, grilling out, farmers markets, CSA boxes—you name it. Neighborhoods buzz and communities are in action.

In this issue, we highlight two businesses that are uniquely cultivating community. You, our readers, have recognized both, selecting them to receive Local Hero Awards for their community leadership and dedication to building a robust local food system. Blue Moon Community Farm and Driftless Café do things a bit differently, and as a result, they are fostering strong communities by bringing people together—at the pack shed and around the table—and connecting them directly with their food source.

Also in this issue, we explore the resurgence of hard cider (including two recipes!), which was once the most popular beverage in the U.S. and is undoubtedly one of the most perfectly refreshing summertime drinks.

We hope you enjoy and wish you a summer teeming with goodness.

With gratitude,

Jamie Lamonde
Publisher & Editor-in-Chief