Editor's message

The holiday season. For me, it means many things: the comfort of traditions, the warmth of gatherings, joyful memories of seasons past. But two important themes are always central: food and giving thanks.

While food might seem like an odd focus for the holidays, it plays an important role in many customs and traditions. For many cultures in Alberta, food is central to family gatherings and thoughtful giving. Learn more about how other people use food to celebrate the season and how you can incorporate their traditions into your own holiday celebrations (page 16). And of course there's no better time to give the gift of food (page 14). In doing so, you will be supporting local food growers and companies, and if the recipient has any kind of appetite, the gift won't end up in the “to be returned” pile.

In the rush of the season, many of us will be eating out. I must admit eating out is my favourite way to experience food. While the chef, the ambience, and the service are all important, what really makes for a good restaurant meal is the food. And when that food is fresh and locally grown, dinner goes from good to great. Learn how you can visit a regional cuisine restaurant and support local farmers, growers and restaurateurs any time of the year (page 28).

Most importantly, what makes this time of year memorable is the opportunity it affords for us to give thanks. The many women and men working in food and agriculture are ever grateful for the support we receive from Albertans. I too feel very fortunate. I have been blessed with the opportunity to work with a spirited and gifted team dedicated to bringing you the stories found on the pages of this magazine. Out of their commitment comes the energy we get from our readers - without you, we could not have so much fun bringing you this magazine.

To everyone on the Food for Thought team and to each and every one of our readers, I thank you for your enthusiasm and wish you a safe, warm and tasty holiday season.

Jennifer Fisk, Editor