Publisher's Note

There’s nothing like reflecting on the passing of a decade to make one feel nostalgic. As we turn the page on ten years of Word of Mouth magazine, I am immensely proud of this publication. It’s the manifestation of a genuine team effort, the manifestation of our love for Mendocino County—our friends and neighbors, and the impressive work that they do.

When I first imagined this magazine I had no publishing experience—oh, my naivete in those first years! I met Torrey Douglass, who immediately understood my vision and had the talent and skills to bring it to print. I became friends with Dawn Emery Ballantine, who not only edited this publication for many years, but also kept our finances on the straight and narrow while juggling her own bookstore and bookkeeping businesses.

Another challenge was sourcing the particular printer that could create what we wanted. The vision required beautiful matte paper that would speak of quality before you read a word. We wanted gorgeous imagery and exceptional design that would elevate the stories within.

We have often referred back to local supporter Scott Cratty, “Mendocino County is where your neighbor is doing the most amazing thing ever, that no one has ever heard of.” This publication has changed that. All manner of craftspeople, restaurateurs, organizers, entrepreneurs, and farmers live and work here, and we get to share their stories. It’s been a true delight to hear how our articles have touched others—making connections between providers and restaurants, increasing awareness around local issues, and bringing more people through the door of a favorite food spot.

Ten years is significant. Within that time span, I lost my husband, which caused me, in part, to move to the coast. We survived a global pandemic and the near collapse of the restaurant industry for two years. Paper shortages led to price increases (which never came back down) and caused us to remain creative and scrappy. We welcomed aboard the smart and hard-working Sarah Reith as the new Executive Editor. When Made Local Sonoma hired away our excellent ad woman, Lisa Ludwigsen (a smart move on their part), the delightful Susanna Seidensticker stepped up to manage that essential aspect of our business.

We’re not the only local organization celebrating a milestone annivesary this year. The Mendocino Land Trust has spent the last 50 years protecting county lands and shores. Other pieces also take a look back. Gowan Batist of Fortunate Farm remembers the ups and downs of the past decade, and we’ve reprinted the very first Small World article about my trip to Cuba in 2016 along with a Then-and-Now commentary by the tour’s guide, Jennifer Ungemach.

We’re so grateful to our advertisers, without whom we would not be here. And we are especially delighted when readers stop to thank us on the street. I have to grin when I hear of complete collections of our archive tucked away in a corner of your home. To hear that our hard work has inspired, entertained, and informed you is the whole reason we keep doing it. Here’s to our next delicious decade.

Warmly,

Holly Madrigal

Founder & Publisher