In Our Winter 2020 Issue

Editor's Note (entire Winter 2020 Issue below):
 

Because Edible Columbus is published quarterly, I have often used this space to reflect on changes in the natural word that mark the new season. A year ago, I was writing about bird migrations and the winter solstice. It seems like a very long time ago.

This has been a year unlike any in my lifetime—and in yours, I suspect. The pandemic disruption that began in March continues in all aspects of life, including the food scene. As another winter arrives, the socially distanced farmers markets are closing down, restaurants are losing their outdoor patio option to cold weather and bars continue to operate with restricted hours. Some food businesses have closed permanently, and others are worried. Pandemic fatigue has set in.

As we all look for a bit of inspiration, this issue brings you the stories of dreamers—people who followed a passion and turned it into a mission. For Nakimba Mullins, the passion was pizza, both eating it and discussing it. For Ryan Walton, it was pursuing the agricultural adventure of growing garlic. Eric and Eliza Obenauer combined two passions—books and vegan food—into a publishing company that opened a bookstore and café.

You also will hear from the people behind the Urban Spreads home-based jam operation and the Kabob Shack restaurant serving Afghan food. In each case, two friends shared an aspiration that became a business reality through hard work.

We also pay a visit to Tracy Kronk, a West Jefferson mother who turned a discussion with a hungry child into a nonprofit that brings together a community of volunteers, all pursuing the same goal of feeding kids.

I hope these stories can bring you a bit of warmth as the temperatures drop.

In this difficult year for everyone in the food chain, I also want to point out that you can still support growers and producers by visiting one of the indoor farmers markets in our area during the winter. The Worthington Farmers Market will again be held inside The Shops at Worthington Place on Saturday mornings from now through April, with occupancy limited and masks required. In Granville, the Granville Elementary School hosts an indoor market most Saturday mornings through February. The North Market in Downtown Columbus remains open and has added a delivery service.

In an unusual twist, the Clintonville Farmers Market has announced that it will run an outdoor, drive-through market from Dec. 12 until April. Customers will need to order online in advance as they did when the market opened in spring under pandemic restrictions.

As we come to the end of 2020, we all have decisions to make about our comfort level in gathering with family and friends this holiday season, and there is no one right answer. Whatever your path, I hope you have a safe and healthy winter. Let us also begin the new year with understanding and compassion for those who continue to suffer in these difficult times.

—Gary Kiefer

gary@ediblecolumbus.com