Co-op News | April 2014

Co-op News North Coast Co-op 811 I Street Arcata, CA 95521

Presorted Standard U.S. Postage PAID Eureka, CA 95501 Permit No 327

CO-OP NEWS A Publication of the North Coast Co-op • April 2014

Shopping by Electric Car

Members Share Their Stories

Member Giveaway

CO-OP NEWS Volume 64 .

April

We

our members!

monthly member giveaway

2014 www.northcoast.coop co-opnews@northcoastco-op.com Editor Melanie Bettenhausen

Marketing & Membership Director (707) 826-8670 ext. 132

melanieb@northcoastco-op.com

Graphics & Coordination Amy Waldrip Graphic Design Coordinator (707) 826-8670 ext. 120

amywaldrip@northcoastco-op.com

Jeremy Smith-Danford

Marketing & Graphics Assistant (707) 826-8670 ext. 129

jeremy@northcoastco-op.com The Co-op does not officially endorse the services or products of any paid advertiser. All articles, columns and letters are the expressed opinion of the author and not the Co-op News.

Arcata Location

811 I St., Arcata • (707) 822-5947 Kevin Waters, Store Manager kevinwaters@northcoastco-op.com Open daily: 6 am to 9 pm

Eureka Location

25 Fourth St., Eureka • (707) 443-6027 Toby Massey, Store Manager tobymassey@northcoastco-op.com Open Daily: 6 am to 9 pm

I

t’s that time of year when we hear about spring cleaning; out with the old and in with the new. We happen to be writing this article on the Spring Equinox which seems very fitting.

Many people are in the habit of the annual ritual of deep cleaning their houses in the springtime. Some actually deep clean regularly and still refer to it as spring cleaning. Whichever camp you’re in we’d like to offer a different perspective this year on spring cleaning; our April member giveaway is about cleaning, but not necessarily one you may be as familiar with.

It’s YOU we’re talking about!

Cleansing your body is about flushing toxins and waste out of

the body in order to feel refreshed and renewed and this month our giveaway has you covered. The following natural methods to get you ready for spring so your home can match your house in level of cleanliness: Renew Life – Cleanse Smart, Advanced Cleanse Bass – Back/Body brush Earth Therapeutics– Loofah Mt. Shasta – Pumice Stone Himalayan Institute – Sinus Cleansing System Soothing Touch – Salt Scrub Of course nothing beats exercise, rest and eating well, but we think these items can come in handy to help put a spring in your step and a glow in your skin. Happy Spring Cleaning!

Enter in either store location Deadline to enter: Apr. 30

Cooperative Offices

811 I St., Arcata • (707) 826-8670 General Manager Kelli Reese, ext. 124

INSIDE

kellireese@nor thcoastco - op.com

Membership Coordinator Bella Waters, ext. 135

bellawaters@nor thcoastco - op.com

Human Resources Lisa Landry, ext. 127

lisalandr y@nor thcoastco - op.com

Accounting Kelli Costa, ext. 138

kcosta@nor thcoastco - op.com

Board of Directors

Kelly Boehms, Kate Lancaster, Fred Moore, Tim Silva, Steve Suttell, Jessica Unmack, John Woolley

board@northcoastco-op.com

The Cooperative Principles: 1. Voluntary & Open Membership 2. Democratic Member Control 3. Member Economic Participation 4. Autonomy & Independence 5. Education, Training & Information 6. Cooperation Among Cooperatives 7. Concern for Community

1 Co-op News | April 2014

2 Shopping by Electric Car

3 From Our General Manager 3 Disaster Prep

4 Lemon Jasmine Rice Salad 5 Member Comments 6-7 Community Kitchen Class & Workshop Schedule

8 New Sign for Arcata Store!

9 GMO Ban FAQ

10 Local Green Smoothies 11 Community Partners 12 Member Survey 13-14 Bylaws Review & Revision 15 April Reference Guide

15 Go Paperless for Earth Day 15 Sustainable Living Skills Fair

Letters to the Editor Letters must include your name, address, member number, and telephone number (so that we can contact you should any questions arise). Letters should be kept to a maximum of 250 words and may be edited. We regret that we may not be able to publish all letters due to limited space.

Please send your letters to: Co-op News North Coast Co-op 811 I Street Arcata, CA 95521 or email co-opnews@northcoastco-op.com

Member Stories

Electric Vehicle Owners at the Co-op

Brenda Harper Consumer Education Coordinator

M

ore and more people are coming to shop at the Co-op via their electric vehicles.

Most people think that electric vehicles (EVs) are a recent phenomenon. The truth is that in the early 1900’s the electric car was a common site in American towns. They were used primarily for shopping trips and by doctors because they were much more reliable and easier to start than the hand-cranked car of the times.

Electric vehicles dominated the roads and dealer showrooms. Some automobile companies, like Oldsmobile and Studebaker actually started out as successful EV companies.

There was a rebirth of EVs in the early 1970’s prompted by concerns of air pollution and the soaring price of oil, as well as not wanting to be dependent on gasoline.

The Electric and Hybrid Vehicle Research, Development, and Demonstration Act was passed by Congress in 1976 to spur the development of new technologies including improved batteries, motors, and other hybrid-electric components. Although electric vehicles are currently available from companies such as Mitsubishi, Nissan, Chevrolet, Ford and Tesla, there have been people here in Humboldt County repurposing gas cars by converting them to electric for at least 15 years.

Roger, a long time Co-op member who is wellknown in the area for his interest in renewable energy, couldn’t wait for a break through with EVs so he became an EV owner in 1999, long before the fancy new EVs were on the roads. Roger and his crew of solar installers became car converters, building EVs from repurposed cars and assisting many people in putting together their own do-it-yourself electric vehicles. Roger’s 1954 Morris Minor is equipped with Lithium-ion batteries can transport him from Arcata to Crescent City, Willow Creek, or Redway, but most of his driving is between Arcata and Eureka. His other car is a 1965 Volkswagen Beetle, an EV also.

Carl Stancil, if not walking to the Co-op to shop, drives his converted 1991 Honda Civic. His dream of building an electric car came true several years ago after watching videos on YouTube and getting help from other EV enthusiasts.

All Electric Vehicle Show

Several years ago, Co-op member Bill Thompson purchased a pristine 1986 Volkswagen Golf with a blown engine from a friend and enlisted Roger’s assistance in converting it to electric. He was tired of his dependence on petroleum products and with a solar panel system at his home in Bayside, he figured he could satisfy all of his driving needs by driving an EV. Joel Bradfield, Co-op member and employee, also makes use of his solar panels to provide the energy for his converted 1967 Volkswagon Beetle that he drives back and forth to work and to run errands. He says it’s environmentally clean because it doesn’t pollute the air with car emissions.

His solar panels also provide fuel for his car at a considerably less cost than gasoline at the pumps.

After researching the economical benefits of driving an all-electric vehicle, Co-op members Susan and Dan Moskaly became owners of a Nissan Leaf in 2011. They have logged 21,000 miles on their car, adding just $25 more per month onto their electric bill.

In honor of Earth Day 2014, the Bayside Grange & the Humboldt Electric Vehicle Association (HEVA) are sponsoring their 7th Annual All Electric Vehicle Show on Sunday, April 27, from 8 am to 12 noon.

Members of HEVA will be parking their electric cars, trucks, scooters, bicycles and tractors in front of the Bayside Grange for your perusal. Local owners and enthusiasts will be on hand to discuss electric vehicles, and share their knowledge. Come learn about being “gasoline-free,” and reducing the largest portion of your carbon footprint. Visit www.baysidegrange.com for more info.

www.northcoast.coop 2

From the General Manager

More Savings in the Works for Co-op Shoppers

Kelli Reese General Manager

A

s you may have heard, North Coast Co-op was chosen as Business of the Year by the Arcata Chamber of Commerce. A number of us attended the Chamber dinner in midMarch where the winner was announced. We were extremely excited to receive the award. It’s a direct reflection of the commitment of our dedicated employees and board of directors, but our success truly comes from you, our loyal members. Without you, we wouldn’t be here. Thank you for your continued support and patronage, we share this award with each of you and all you’ve done for the Co-op over the last 40 years.

Looking Ahead In the cooperative structure the profits are returned to the mem-

bers, reinvested in the Co-op or used to provide member services. We’ve offered patronage refunds the last two years and plan to be able to do it again this year. In the new fiscal year, which starts in April, we’ve budgeted for some long awaited upgrades to the Arcata store which will improve the shopping experience for customers and the working environment for our employees. This includes a plan to replace some of the wornout equipment that has seen better days and the implementation of some exciting programs and offerings. Stay tuned as we’ll be providing more information in the Co-op News as it becomes available.

Additional Savings in Store For as long as we can recall, one of the biggest concerns from members has been about prices and affordability. Making our quality products more accessible while still remaining fiscally responsible has been at the forefront of our conversations for years.

Last year we rolled out the Co-op Basics program with 50 basic items offered at a reduced price every day. These products include milk, butter, bananas, flour, beans and more. These are everyday low prices, not temporary price reductions. Co-op Basics has been extremely popular and we plan to continue this program. In addition, we want to go even further.

Last year we began to look at

what other food co-ops around the country were doing to help reduce prices and we learned about a successful program at Community Food Co-op in Bozeman, Montana.

We discussed the idea of creating the program here. Their program includes buying in larger quantities to get better deals from suppliers. The larger quantities we buy at one time, the better prices per item we get and the lower prices we can offer. Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough space to be able to pull off the scale of purchasing we needed to do in order for the program to work, so we tossed the idea around for the last year or so.

During that same time, we were looking to relieve our crowded administrative offices in the Arcata store. We currently have a number of people sharing desks and some who don’t have them at all. We also need a couple of offices for managers who tend to need more privacy than a cubicle can provide. The administrative office is a hodgepodge of work stations in high traffic areas with no room to add anything else, like desks and equipment.

In 2012 we started working on a plan to move the Marketing Department to the Eureka store in order to free up additional space in the Arcata office and give the Marketing Department more room for their tasks and equipment. Unfortunately, when we looked at how much space

it would realistically provide, it wasn’t enough. We decided to move both marketing and Accounting since so many of the file cabinets and infrastructure in the administrative offices belonged to those two departments, but the Eureka store didn’t have enough room for everyone and their equipment, so we tabled it for a while.

At the end of 2013 a viable option emerged for both of the tabled projects. A block away from the Arcata store is the Ten Pin building, the former Arcata bowling alley. It was for rent and we explored the idea of having a space that combined office and warehouse together.

We ran numbers to figure out what it looked like financially to purchase more of our popular products at lower prices and pass on the cost savings to our members and shoppers. Happily, the numbers worked out well. The purchasing program is exciting as it means we’ll have more products on deal for longer periods of time; in short, more savings

for you.

The Ten Pin building is a BIG space with more than enough room for administrative office space and storage of product. The owner of the building is a Co-op member who worked with us on an affordable lease with an option to vacate with six months’ notice if it doesn’t happen to pan out, thereby reducing the risk.

The Board of Directors has been involved every step of the way. It’s in line with our 2014-2018 Strategic Plan and it gives us room to grow while helping to make us more competitive in our marketplace, something we’re keenly aware of as more and more businesses pick up our product lines and expand their offerings.

The very first of these deals are available in our stores now with more to follow. We’ll keep adding to the mix as we find great deals worth passing on to you.

Thank you for your continued support and encouragement to keep growing and improving our operations. 

Thank You, Arcata Chamber of Commerce Members for voting us Business of the Year!

Disaster Prep 101

By Judith Warren, Emergency Preparedness Guru

“Drop, Cover, and Hold On” is the Right Thing to Do!

T

he recent 6.9 Gorda Plate earthquake on March 10 has been a wake-up call and a reminder of what to do, and what not to do, during an earthquake. A random survey after the earthquake revealed that many folks would not do the right thing during an earthquake — they would run outdoors, rather than drop, cover, and hold on!

Here’s a recap of what you should do if you are indoors when there is an earthquake: • Drop down to the floor.

• Take cover under a sturdy

ing an earthquake statistically are four times more likely to be clobbered by items flying through the air or falling on them!

desk, table or other furniture.

• Hold on and be prepared to move with whatever you are under — hold the position until the ground stops shaking and it is safe to move.

• If there is no nearby table or

3 Co-op News | April 2014

desk, sit on the floor against an inside wall, away from windows, tall furniture, bookcases, hanging objects, mirrors, large appliances, etc.

• Protect your head and neck with your arms.

• If you are elderly or have mobility impairment, remain where you are, bracing yourself in place.

• Do not run outside while the ground is shaking. Folks who move more than five feet dur-

Judith is a geographer and is one of the authors of “Living on Shaky Ground: How to Survive Earthquakes and Tsunamis in Northern California.” For more preparedness tips see http://humboldt.edu/rti/prepare. You can also find Judith’s past Disaster Prep articles in the Co-op News archive, located on our website, www.northcoast.coop.

Cook & Save

COOK & SAVE

By Brenda Harper, Consumer Education Coordinator & Lauren Fawcett, Outreach Coordinator

Photo by Amy Waldrip

T

he North Coast Co-op’s Cook & Save Club hosts free monthly meetings to develop recipes that include items from our sales flyer. This month we are featuring organic white jasmine rice from our bulk department. Lundberg Family Farms produces this rice in an ecofriendly, sustainable

manner and it is certified GMO free. Jasmine rice is an aromatic long grain rice originally grown only in Thailand. While cooking, this exotic rice fills your kitchen with a delicate scent. The grains cook up moist and tender with a soft texture and delicious flavor – use it as a side dish or in pilafs and desserts.

Ingredients

Instructions

• ¼ cup minced shallots • 2 Tablespoon olive oil, divided • 1 cup jasmine rice, well rinsed • 1 teaspoon minced garlic • 2 cups water • 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest • 2 ½ Tablespoons fresh lemon juice • 1/3 cup roughly chopped parsley • ½ cup diced bell pepper • 1/3 cup lightly toasted sunflower seeds • ½ lb sugar snap peas, left whole or cut into halves • Salt and pepper, to taste

1. In a deep saucepan over moderate heat, sauté the shallots in 1 Tablespoon of the olive oil until soft but not brown. Add the rice and continue to sauté for 2 to 3 minutes longer, stirring regularly.

Add the minced garlic, mix in and sauté for about 30 seconds. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and continue to cook until all the liquid is absorbed, 14 to 16 minutes. Remove from the heat and let stand, partially covered, for 5 minutes. Gently fluff the rice with a fork and pour into a large bowl to cool completely.

2. Add the lemon zest, juice, parsley, bell pepper, sugar snap peas, sunflower seeds, remaining 1 Tablespoon of olive oil, and salt & pepper to the rice and gently stir to combine.

Make Ahead Tip: If not using immediately, cover and refrigerate for up to three days.

Join us Mar. 10 for the next free meeting of our Cook & Save Club

Details on p. 6.

Sale Ingredients

Located in the Bulk Department

s Seed r e w flo ic Sun n a g Or On Sale Apr. 1

thru

Apr. 14

$2.99 per lb Reg. $3.99

ce arms ine Ri m s erg F b a d J n Lu hite nic W Orga

On Sale Apr. 15

thru

Apr. 28

$2.19 per lb Reg. $3.29

www.northcoast.coop 4

Member News

Member Comment Board

Co-op Kids Coloring Contest Winner!

Shirley, Age 11 Thank you to everyone who entered our ‘Save the Bees’ coloring contest! We had many beautiful entries and had a blast admiring them as they came in. Our winner, Shirley, took home a $25 gift card!

Look for more Co-op Kids Contests in future issues of the Co-op News.

5 Co-op News | April 2014

April thru May 2014

Schedule of Cooking Classes & Workshops in Eureka & Arcata

Betsy and Kate participate during the March Cook & Save class in the Eureka Community Kitchen

Eureka Cooking Classes 4th & B Streets Sunday, April 6 from 11:00am to 1:30 pm

Wednesday, May 7 from 6:00 to 8:30 pm

Monday, May 12 from 6:00 to 7:30 pm

Lisa Ponci Hindley & Rhonda Wiedenbeck $30/$20 Co-op Members Want to learn about Humboldt County wheat farming and eat delicious whole grain treats? Local farmer, Lisa (Hindley Ranch, Mattole Valley) and baker Rhonda (Beck’s Bakery) will discuss local wheat varieties, ways to use them, and the nutritional benefits of stone ground grains. The following baked goodies will feature “Foisy” (a soft white wheat): Zucchini Bread; Lemon-Blueberry Bread; Chocolate Chip Cookies; 100% Whole Wheat Buttermilk Pancakes; and Whole Wheat Dog Biscuits.

Chef Alex Begovic $45/$35 Co-op Members Enjoy the bounty of flavors in this delicious menu.

Pan Seared Asparagus with Bacon, Almonds and Miso Vinaigrette; Parsley Pesto Soup with Goat Cheese Crostini; Lamb Confit with Green Beans & Pearl Onions; and Ginger-Lemon Rice Pudding with Fresh Fruit.

Co-op Staff Instruction Free Are you looking for creative, economical and nutritious new recipes? This interactive class focuses on creating healthy & delicious recipes from scratch with ingredients on sale at the Co-op. Participants will have fun preparing and sampling the recipes in class.

Thursday, May 8 from 6:00 to 8:30 pm

Wednesday, May 14 from 6:00 to 7:00 pm

Betty Thompson $45/$35 Co-op Members Bask in the exotic essence of this meal. The main dish is Belizean Chicken with Recado Roho (Mayan spice blend) cooked in Banana Leaves. The accompanying Yucatecan style dishes include: Colorful Red Beans & Rice cooked in Coconut Milk; Sautéed Plantain; and “Chile” Pickled Onions spiked with Habanero Pepper.

The refreshing dessert will be Key Lime Tart in Coconut Crust.

MFP Instruction Free If you’re new to the world of water bath canning, jams & jellies are a fabulous way to start. Learn about types of pectin, sweeteners, safe food preservation techniques, the importance of using recommended recipe sources and more! This workshop is demonstration only with tasty samples included.

Baking with Local Whole Wheat

Wednesday, April 9 from 6:00 to 8:30 pm

French Spring I

Chef Alex Begovic $45/$35 Co-op Members Enjoy the fresh flavors of this enchanting menu. Creamy Carrot & Coconut Curry Soup; Pea Salad with Shallots, Toasted Almonds, Mint Crème Fraiche and Bacon (optional); Spinach Soufflé with Gruyere; and Chocolate Tapioca Pudding with Caramelized Bananas.

French Spring III

Belize Style

Cook & Save

Master Food Preserver Demo Jams & Jellies

W

Register for Classes Visit www.northcoast.coop to register or call Outreach Coordinator, Lauren Fawcett at (707) 443-6027 ext. 102.

Classes are held in our Arcata or Eureka Community Kitchen locations. Please note location when registering.

Workshop

Gluten-Free

Hands-On

Wine Served

Vegetarian

Kid-Friendly

W Please note: Most cooking classes (in both Arcata & Eureka) are demonstration only, meaning that the instructor demonstrates the recipe(s) and students eat the food that is prepared (usually a full course meal). Classes with a hands-on icon allow for student involvement in the creation of a meal.

www.northcoast.coop 6

Eureka classes continued...

Wednesday, May 21 from 6:00 to 8:30 pm

Thursday, May 29 from 6:00 to 8:30 pm

Chef Alex Begovic $45/$35 Co-op Members Relish the flavors of this late Spring menu. Radish, Cucumber and Spring Onion Salad with White Balsamic Vinaigrette; Chick Pea Soup finished with Fresh Basil; Risotto de Printemps; and decadent Espresso Cheesecake with Caramel Sauce.

Chef Dina Fernandez $45/$35 Co-op Members Savor these splendid Spanish flavors. Spicy Marcona Almonds; Sautéed Seasonal Mushrooms with Amontillado Sherry and Bacon served with local Beck’s Bakery Bread; Papas Arrugadas con Mojo Verde (sea salt-crusted Russian fingerling potatoes with cilantro vinaigrette); Avocado Wedges stuffed with Shrimp & Dungeness Crab marinated in Tarragon & Caper Sauce; and Cypress Grove Chevre with Fennel, Cashews, and Fresh Strawberry Marmalade.

French Spring IV

Eureka Class Announcements

Tasty Tapas

Full Class: Festive Filipino Fare with Chef Dina Fernandez • Wed., Apr. 2

Full Class: French Spring II

with Chef Alex Begovic • Wed., Apr. 23

Full Class: Chef Jon’s Culinary Inspiration: Cuisine of the Southwest with Chef Jon Joeschen • Mon., Apr. 28

Arcata Cooking Classes 8th & I Streets Monday, April 21 from 6:00 to 8:30 pm

Saturday, April 12 from 1:30 to 3:00 pm

Raw Food – Savory Style

Dr. Pepper Hernandez $30/$20 Co-op Members Indulging in raw foods doesn’t mean only having sweet treats or juices. Join naturopath, nutritionist and passionate raw foodie, Pepper as she shares wholesome, savory recipes, nutrition info and the added benefits of the raw lifestyle. Students will work together to create a few recipes to enjoy in class. All recipes are free of sugar, dairy and gluten.

Sunday, April 13 from 1:00 to 3:30 pm

Health & Wellness: Herbal Tincture Making

Bethany Staffieri $45/$35 Co-op Members Learn how to craft your own herbal tinctures. Tinctures are concentrated alcohol-based plant medicine extracts.

This class covers: How to make standard & folk method tinctures • How to prepare the herbs • Understanding alcohol as a menstruum • Dosing for adults & children • Personalizing a formula • Tincture health benefits.

Students will take home samples. Bethany is a trained and certified Western Herbalist.

Cook & Save

Cathy Deyo $30/$20 Co-op Members Are you looking to add a little more flavor or protein to your vegetable dishes? Learn how to make quick, nutritious and delicious toppings for vegetables, pasta and more. Cathy’s menu includes: Cauliflower Rotini with “Parmesan” Sprinkle (includes almonds); Prappu (similar to a walnut pesto); Savory Tofu Topping; Cashew Cheeze Sauce; Coconut Bacon; Fakin’ Bacon; and Santa Fe Spread.

Friday, May 2 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.

Date Night: Appetizer & Wine Party

Co-op Staff Instruction $65/$55 (per couple) Co-op Members Spice up your evening with a fun night of cooking, drinking and dining. Couples will create delectable vegetarian and seafood appetizers that are substantial enough for a meal.

Saturday, May 10 from 1:30 to 3:00 pm

Raw Cuisine: Sweet Treats for Mother’s Day

Monday, April 14 from 6:00 to 7:30 pm Co-op Staff Instruction Free Are you looking for creative, economical and nutritious new recipes? This interactive class focuses on creating healthy & delicious recipes from scratch with ingredients on sale at the Co-op. Participants will have fun preparing and sampling the recipes in class.

Arcata Class Announcements

Vegan Cuisine: Savory Vegan Toppings & Spreads

Dr. Pepper Hernandez $30/$20 Co-op Members Treat your Mother, a friend or yourself with these enticing recipes: gourmet chocolate truffles, brownies and delectable layer cake. Nutritional facts, recipes and plenty of samples will keep you entertained while educating you on raw foods. Pepper is a naturopath, nutritionist and raw food chef.

Full Class: Gluten-Free Asian Dinner with Maria Vanderhorst • Mon., Apr 7

Sunday, May 18 from 1:00 to 3:30 pm

Health & Wellness Medicinal Herbal Syrups

Bethany Staffieri $30/$20 Co-op Members Learn the art of herbal syrup making. This class will cover the basics and more. Including: How to concentrate herbal liquids • Which menstruum to choose, honey or sugar and why • Storing • Proper dosing for children & adults • Which plants are suitable for syrups • Health benefits. Students will take home samples. Bethany is a trained and certified Western Herbalist.

Monday, May 19 from 6:00 to 8:30 pm

Healthy Comfort Foods

Chef Jon Hoeschen $45/$35 Co-op Members Make over your meal time with some tasty new recipes with a healthier spin. Toasted Spelt Soup with Escarole and White Beans; Collard Greens Salad with Cashews and Lime; Poached Cod in Tomatoes and Saffron; Seasonal Vegetables; and Chèvre Cheesecake with Mixed Berries.

Free Tastings at the Co-op T uesdays F ridays S aturdays

Check out weekly tastings in our stores. We’ll be serving up a variety of new products, as well as familiar favorites, seasonal produce and more.

Every Tuesday

Every Friday

Every Saturday

1:00 to 3:00 pm

3:00 to 5:00 pm

1:00 to 3:00 pm

In Eureka In Arcata

3:00 to 5:00 pm

7 Co-op News | April 2014

In Eureka

In Arcata

Want to get your product in front of our shoppers?

Contact Lauren Fawcett at (707) 443-6027x102

Cooperative News

New Sign at Co-op’s Arcata Location!

Jeremy Smith-Danford Graphics & Marketing Assistant

S

pring has begun, and the Co-op has been doing some heavy spring cleaning. We have been on the look-out for old Co-op logos in our stores. We have replaced the previous (food group) logo with our new sprout logo, on everything from product displays to business cards. But there has been one sign that has taken a bit more work to change; the one on the front of our Arcata store. On the first day of spring, we were finally able to give our Arcata store a fresh new look. Our main-

tenance crew and All Points Signs went to work taking down the old sign and putting up the new one. The new sign was built by Geoff Wills and his team at All Points Signs.

The first sign to hang in front of the Co-op (now hanging between the Produce and Meat departments in our Arcata store) was made around 1977 with artwork by Carolyn Real. The Coop’s first full-time graphic artist Bernice Kagan turned the artwork into the first food group logo, and in the early 1990’s, Amie Haas La Banca and Laura Jones redesigned the Co-op food logo to be the one on the sign recently removed. The sign was installed for the opening of the Arcata Co-op expansion and remodel in the late 1990s.

Unfortunately we were not able to salvage the old sign because it was made of plywood and foam core letters, which crumbled when removed. Clearly it was time for the sign to be replaced. We also do not know who created the sprout logo we are currently using. If you have that information, please contact me at (707) 826-8670 ext. 129 or jeremy@northcoastco-op.com.

We are excited to be entering this spring with a beautiful new sign to welcome our members and shoppers into our Arcata store.

Photos by Jeremy Smith Danford

Top: The finished sign! Bottom left: The old sign comes down. Bottom right: The new sign is installed.

Farm Bill Levels the Playing Field for Organic Farmers affected by a disaster such as drought. infrastructure.

The subsidized crop insurance also is now The new farm bill makes changes to linked to conservation compliance. Crop both nutrition and farm programs. The SNAP (food stamps) insurance has been program funding A large majority of Amer- expanded to fruit was decreased, but icans are affected in some and vegetable growthe bill provides an ers, and improveincrease in financing way whether it be with food ments for organic to food banks and stamps and school lunch farmers’ insurance nutrition programs, programs, rural communi- should take effect in 2015. The bill also and SNAP dollars are doubled when ties, water and waste facil- creates a permanent recipients use them ity grants, the hunters or the livestock disaster for fresh produce at wetlands reserve program, assistance program.

For the dairy farmers’ markets.

Much of the to name only a few. It’s not industry there will money in the bill not a perfect bill but its passage no longer be minispent on SNAP goes was critical for our nation’s mum prices set for milk, cheese, to farmers to subsiand butter. Instead, dize certain crops. agriculture infrastructure. insurance will be The subsidies for offered to dairy farmers to protect them production of corn, soybeans, wheat, cotagainst falling milk prices or rising feed ton and rice help to stabilize prices farmcosts. ers receive, and ultimately, what consumAccording to the Organic Trade Assoers pay. ciation (OTA) the demand for organic The most significant change in farm products continues to outpace production programs is the elimination of a suband several elements in the new bill will sidy known as direct payments. These help facilitate and maintain the integrity payments were paid to farmers whether of organic certification. It puts organic or not they grew crops. The new bill farmers on a more level playing field with cuts this subsidy and adds money to the conventional producers. Organic farmers government-subsidized crop insurance, with crop insurance will now be compenproviding subsidies only when farms are

“

Brenda Harper Consumer Education Coordinator

P

resident Obama recently signed into law the long-delayed Farm Bill (Agricultural Act of 2014) that governs agriculture policy and allots tax dollars in a variety of programs. A large majority of Americans are affected in some way whether it be with food stamps and school lunch programs, rural communities, water and waste facility grants, the hunters or the wetlands reserve program, to name only a few.

It’s not a perfect bill but its passage was critical for our nation’s agriculture

“

sated for their losses based on organic prices, not conventional.

The National Organic Program will receive more funding and there are additional funds for technology upgrades. The bill also maintains funding for critically needed programs for beginning farmers and invests in organic and local agriculture. This means more organic research and a cost share for organic certification.

While U.S. consumer demand for organic food and beverages continues to grow, domestic production to meet that demand has not kept up, requiring greater imports of organic production to fill the gap. The organic program funding in the new Farm Bill will help U.S. farmers better meet that demand and perhaps help in making healthy food more affordable.

Credit can be given to the National Cooperative Grocery Association’s (NCGA) chief executive officer Robyn Shrader who, along with other members of the National Organic Coalition (NOC), met personally in Washington, D.C. with congressional leaders to bring about improvements to the bill that help organic farmers. The NOC is an advocacy group working to ensure that our organic farmers receive benefits just like conventional farmers. The North Coast Co-op is a member of NCGA and the NCGA is a member of the NOC. 

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GMO News

Humboldt’s GMO Ban

Further Understanding the Proposed Ordinance bicides or to produce their own insecticides. Hybrids and other varieties produced through conventional breeding are not GMOs and would not be affected by this ordinance.

Melanie Bettenhausen Marketing & Membership Director

A

s you read in the last issue of the Co-op News, the North Coast Co-op Board of Directors unanimously agreed to formally endorse GMO Free Humboldt’s proposed ordinance to ban the cultivation and production of Genetically Modified Organisms in Humboldt County. You can read the full text of the proposed ordinance at www.gmofreehumboldt. org, but these frequently asked questions about the ban, taken from GMO Free Humboldt’s website, are a good start to understanding the proposed ordinance.

Frequently Asked Questions about the proposed ban (from GMO Free Humboldt) Q: What is the purpose of the ordinance?

A: The purpose of the ordinance is to prohibit the growing or raising of GMOs in Humboldt County.

Q: What is a GMO? Is it the same thing as a hybrid?

A: Genetically engineered organisms, often called “genetically modified organisms” or GMOs, are produced by manipulating DNA in a laboratory to overcome natural reproductive barriers. The resulting organisms contain genetic codes which could not have been created through natural processes and which therefore pose unique risks. The most widespread GMOs today are crop plants engineered to resist the effects of certain her-

9 Co-op News | April 2014

Get Involved

Sign the Petition before April 15!

Q: Does the ordinance ban GMOs in grocery stores?

A: No, this is a carefully targeted ordinance which will affect only the growing or raising of genetically engineered plants or animals in the county. It will not keep local stores from selling genetically engineered food products.

Q: Does the ordinance ban GMO animal feed?

A: No, this is a carefully targeted ordinance which will affect only the growing or raising of genetically engineered plants or animals in the county. It will not keep local stores or vendors from selling genetically engineered animal feed.

Q: Does the ordinance affect lab research at HSU or private labs?

A: No, research contained within a laboratory is specifically exempt from the ordinance.

Q: Does the ordinance affect vaccines or other medicines, or medical research?

A: No, medicines are specifically exempt from the ordinance, along with anything else involved in providing people with medical care.

Q: What will people currently growing GMOs do?

A: They will have a one year grace period to harvest or destroy their crops.

Q: How will the ordinance be enforced?

A: The Humboldt County Agricultural Commissioner will enforce the ordinance based on information provided through reports from members of the public and any other information that comes to his or her attention. The opportunity will be provided for anyone accused of growing GMOs to pro-

GMO Free Humboldt needs 7,500 signatures in order to qualify for the election ballot in November. If you have questions or would like to get involved, email humboldtgmofree@gmail.com or visit http://gmofreehumboldt.org/get-involved/ GMO Free Humboldt meets every other Wednesday in the Co-op’s Community Kitchen in Arcata.

vide evidence showing that they are not before the Commissioner takes any action.

require the violator to pay back the county for any reasonable costs of enforcement.

Q: What are the penalties for violating the ordinance?

A: A violation of the ordinance will be considered a public nuisance. That’s because, like other public nuisances, growing GMOs poses a threat to the public – in this case, the threat of irreversibly contaminating non-GMO organisms on other people’s properties. Therefore, if the Agricultural Commissioner determines that GMOs are being grown in violation of the ordinance, those crops or other organisms will have to be destroyed or removed.

Q: What do farmers think about the ordinance?

A: Many of our strongest supporters are farmers! This ordinance will help protect our organic farmers from the risk of losing their organic certifications due to genetic contamination. It will also help ensure that all of our farmers can have access to the growing market for GMO-free products.

Q: Who will pay for enforcement of the ordinance?

A: Just as in any other case involving a public nuisance, enforcement costs resulting from a violation of this ordinance will be subject to “cost recovery.” That means the county will hold a hearing and

Q: Will home gardeners be affected by the ordinance?

A: The ordinance applies to everyone equally. However, genetically engineered seeds and plants are not currently sold in the home garden market, so the ordinance won’t really change anything for small scale, non-commercial gardeners.  Contact Melanie melanieb@northcoastco-op.com

Local Produce Recipe

By Brenda Harper, Consumer Education Coordinator & Lauren Fawcett, Outreach Coordinator

Use this Recipe or

Make Your Own Mix! Just use 2 cups of veggies, 2 cups of fruit, and 2 cups of liquid. If you prefer really cold smoothies, use ice cubes in place of the water or use frozen fruit (now available in 5lb bags in our freezer aisles).

Veggie Options:

Photos by Amy Waldrip

G

reen smoothies are fruit smoothies made with green veggies.

Greens, especially leafy greens, are rich sources of important vitamins such as C, K, A, and E, and contain necessary minerals such as iron, manganese, and magnesium, among many more.

Smoothies, as opposed to juices, are a complete food because they still have fiber. Consuming fiber is important for our elimination/digestive system.

Eating raw greens can be difficult both due to the sour/bitter taste, as well as the strong cell walls that make chewing them well a challenge. Blending greens enables our bodies to absorb all of the amazing nutrients; adding fruit makes us more likely to drink them. Regular consumption of green smoothies forms a good habit of eating greens.

Green smoothies are easy to make and quick to clean up, making them the freshest and fastest way to get your veggies. They can be a healthy fast food if you blend up extra and store it in an airtight jar in the refrigerator. Be sure to use the extra within two days and shake before drinking.

Ingredients •2 cups Little River spinach (pack the cups with the fresh spinach) •2 cups banana (about 2 bananas), peel and cut into chunks • 1 cup apple juice • 1 cup water

Preparation

1

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1. Add spinach to blender. 2. Add sliced banana, apple juice and water to blender.

3. Blend and enjoy! If consistency is too thick, add a little more water or apple juice.

Spinach Kale Celery Cucumber Cilantro Swiss Chard Cabbage, any variety Bok Choy Spring Mix Greens Collard Greens Parsley & other herbs: Basil, Mint, etc.

Mustard Greens Dandelion Greens Fruit Options: Apple Banana Orange Pear Pineapple Mango Strawberries Blueberries Blackberries Raspberries Grapefruit Honeydew Grapes Pitted Dates Avocado Liquid Options: Water Ice Cubes Fruit Juice Coconut Water Coconut Milk Milk Almond Milk Other Milk Alternatives

10 www.northcoast.coop 10

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News | April 2014

Member News

Member Responses to Co-op News Survey

I

Members Told Us What They Would Like to See in the Co-op News

n the February Co-op News we asked readers to tell us their favorite parts of the Co-op News, what they would like to see added and what is missing. In the chart to the right, the numbers represent the number of responses for each content category, which is greater than the total number of respondents (15). We combined the responses into content categories, regardless of whether we currently have that content or not, so that we would have a clear idea of what a great issue of the Co-op News would look like to our readers.

Recipes stole the day, with our Cooking Class schedule a close second. No one said we should remove anything, but they wanted to see more local food news and food politics, as well as articles on health, nutrition and environment. One person suggested adding a “From the Farm” column written by local farmers. It was really great to hear from our readers and know that we are doing a good job. Thank you to everyone who took the time to give us feedback—we welcome it any time!

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Recipes Cooking Classes Local/Food Politics GM Report Board Report Member Comments Opportunities to Participate Editorial In Season & List of Farmers Environment Health/Nutrition Employees Farm News Monthly Sales Flyer GMOs Financials

WIN A $25 GIFT CARD

Member Survey

Responses to February’s Member Survey question: What are your favorite parts of the Co-op News?

What is missing that you’d like to see?

Numbers reflect responses in favor of content categories, not actual number of respondents (15).

February’s Member Survey Winner!

DEADLINE TO ENTER APRIL 30 To help the Board with their Bylaws update, what questions or concerns do you have regarding the proposed language for Section III and Section IV of the Bylaws as detailed in this issue of the Co-op News (see article on previous page).

Member Name: Member #:

Phone #:

Detach this entry form & return it to the Member Survey box located near Customer Service at either store location. Be sure to include your name, contact information, and member number so that we can contact you if your entry is drawn.

You can also send your ideas to co-opnews@northcoastco-op.com with “Member Survey” in the subject line. Must be a member to enter. Co-op employees and their families are not eligible to win.

Colin Fisk Member # 23198 He won a $25 Gift Card!

www.northcoast.coop 12

Co-op Bylaws

Proposed Bylaws Changes 4 201

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Articles III and IV

s we reported in the last issue of the Co-op News, our Board of Directors appointed a committee to review our bylaws and to update them to: correspond to best practices for food co-ops;

gain consistency in compliance with regulations and our securities permit; and stay current with California Cooperative law. Making these changes requires a vote by our membership. We will be asking you to approve the proposed changes in our General Election in October. In order to prepare you for that task, we are covering the proposed changes in what we hope is a digestible form by breaking them down into their various articles and sections in the next few issues of the Co-op News. Last month we covered Article I – Identity and Mission and Article II – Membership. This month we will be covering the proposed changes to Article III – Membership Shares, and Article IV – Membership Meetings and Voting. Next month we’ll be covering the proposed changes to Article V – Board of Directors, and Article VI – Officers and Committees, so stay tuned. In addition, the Board of Directors will hold three separate member forums in June to gather input and answer questions. Of course we welcome your comments, questions, and feedback on these proposed changes at any time. We appreciate your review of these documents as they are important to the functioning of your Co-op! You can view the complete current bylaws on our website at

law, each member may hold an unlimited number of Class D shares. Class D shares and fractions thereof may be issued as a share dividend credit, or patronage refund or upon a share split, reverse share split, or other change affecting outstanding Class D shares.

The Directors may declare noncumulative dividends on paid up Class D shares not to exceed any maximum rate established by statute.

Further conditions on share issuance.

By duly adopted resolution, the Board may from time to time impose further conditions upon the initial issuance of shares of any class including, but not limited to the purchase of one or more Class B, C or D Shares, or any combination thereof.

Rationale for changes: We feel that our current bylaws do not adequately describe the differences between the four classes of shares, which has caused confusion. This new language will help clarify the differences.

www.northcoastco-op.com/images/pdfs/bylaws.pdf or ask for a copy at Customer Service.

Article III – Membership Shares Bylaw Language: Section 3.01 —Share Issuance Shares may be issued for money paid in an amount determined from time to time by the Board of Directors, and/or as share dividends, patronage refunds, or other changes affecting shares.

Rationale for changes: We removed duplicate language regarding share ownership, because it is already covered in Section 3.02.

Bylaw Language: Section 3.02 – Share Class and Ownership The North Coast Co-op shall have four (4) classes of shares, with such shares described in the Articles of Incorporation and these bylaws. a. Class A Membership Shares. Subject to the approval of the Board of Directors, the Articles of Incorporation, and any other applicable law, each member may only hold one Class A Share. Ownership of one Class A share entitles a member to only one vote in the affairs of the cooperative and to all the rights and privileges of membership as described by statute, the Articles and these bylaws. No dividends shall be

paid on Class A shares. b. Class B Sustaining Shares. Subject to the approval of the Board of Directors, the Articles of Incorporation, these bylaws, and any other applicable law, each member shall own a specified number of Class B shares, as set by the Board, up to Fair Share Membership Status as defined in these bylaws.

No dividends shall be paid on Class B shares. Any patronage refunds not paid in cash may be distributed to the members in the form of Class B shares or fractions thereof. c. Class C Co-op Shares. Subject to the approval of the Board of Directors, the Articles of Incorporation, these bylaws, and any other applicable law, each member may hold a maximum of $50,000 worth or 5,000 Class C shares. Class C shares and fractions thereof may be issued as a share dividend credit, or patronage refund or upon a share split, reverse share split, or other change affecting outstanding Class C shares. The Directors may declare dividends on paid up Class C Shares not to exceed any maximum rate established by statute. d. Class D Investment Shares. Subject to the approval of the Board of Directors, the Articles of Incorporation, these bylaws, and any other applicable

13 Co-op

News | April 2014

Bylaw Language: Section 3.03 – Fair Share Membership Status Definition A “Fair Share” Membership Status is attained when a member purchases one Class A share plus the number of Class B shares designated as necessary by the Board of Directors for such status. The Board of Directors shall determine from time to time the minimum number of Sustaining (Class B) shares that shall constitute such “Fair Share” Membership status.

Rationale for changes: Our current bylaws do not define what Fair Share member status is, although Fair Share member status is referenced.

We feel it is necessary and desirable to include a definition in the bylaws.

Bylaw Language: Section 3.04 – Partial Repurchase A member owning a number of Class B, and/or C shares in excess of any minimum number required by the Board of Directors may cause the cooperative to purchase his or her excess shares upon written request to the Board of Directors. Subject to Section 3.06 of these bylaws, the Board must, within one (1) year of such request, pay the amount the member requests in cash or other shares or both. The exact form of payment is within the discretion of the Board. No

bylaw shall be adopted by the Directors, which would have the effect of changing the rights or preferences of shares already issued and outstanding with respect to partial withdrawals, unless approved by the members, as defined in the California Consumer Cooperative Code section 12224.

Rationale for changes: The only change was to include the last sentence of the section, which was added to protect current holders of shares from any future bylaw changes that might affect the rights or preferences of the shares they hold.

Bylaw Language: Section 3.05 – Escheat Shares Any share of a member, together with any accrued and unpaid dividends and patronage distributions related to that member, that would otherwise escheat to the State of California as unclaimed personal property shall instead become the property of the North Coast Co-op, pursuant to section 12446 of the California Consumer Cooperative Code, if the North Coast Co-op gives at least sixty (60) days’ prior notice of the proposed transfer to the affected member by: 1. First-class mail to the last address of the member shown on the North Coast Co-op’s records, and 2. By publication in the newspaper of general circulation in the county in which the North Coast Co-op has its principal office.

Rationale for changes: The only change is to move the language regarding written notice of a transfer of escheated shares to Section 3.06. See the last sentence of Section 3.06.

Bylaw Language: Section 3.06 – Gift of Proprietary Interests.

A member, holding any proprietary interest in the North Coast Co-op which becomes subject to unclaimed property laws may make a gift to the Co-op of such interest either by affirmatively so designating in a communication to the North Coast Co-op or by failing to claim the interest after the North Coast Co-op has completed the procedure set forth in this section 3.05. A person who fails to make such claim or provide such notice of objection shall be deemed to have made a gift of such interest to the Co-op as of the effective date of such transfer.

Co-op Bylaws No shares or other proprietary interest shall become the property of the North Coast Co-op under this section of the bylaws if written notice objecting to the transfer is received by the North Coast Co-op from the affected member prior to the date of the proposed transfer.

Rationale for changes: This section was added to allow us to utilize escheated shares in lieu of sending them to the State of California. This is allowed under California law, and is presumed to be more in line with the intentions of former Co-op members who “abandon” their shares. Also we added the last sentence in regards to transfers, which is language moved from Section 3.05.

Bylaw Language: Section 3.07– Evidence of Membership Statement of Class A shares, in a form to be determined by the Board of Directors, may be issued to each member, as determined by the Board of Directors.

Share certificates, in a form to be determined by the Board of Directors, may be issued to each purchaser of Class B or Class C Shares, as determined by the Board after the full purchase price has been paid.

Any share certificate or other evidence of share ownership shall maintain a legend stating substantially the following: This security is not registered under the Securities Exchange Commission Act of 1933, and any transfer or resale of said security is prohibited and void.

Rationale for changes: This language is more in line with current co-op practices and allows our Co-op to have options in what the evidence of share ownership will look like, and clearly states the language that must be included on every evidence of share ownership.

Bylaw Language: Section 3.08 – Repurchase Upon written request following voluntary or involuntary termination of membership, the Class A and Class B shares of the requesting member shall be redeemed as soon as practicable as determined by the Board of Directors as long as the Co-op has received replacement capital, for an amount not to exceed the shares’ original cash purchase price, and less any amounts owed to the co-op. Any amounts in dispute shall be held by the Co-op pending resolution of the dispute. In the case of termination of membership, a reasonable administrative fee may be imposed, as determined by the Board.

Rationale for changes: The words “replacement capital” were

added to reflect good and recommended co-op practices. This prevents the Co-op from member repurchases that could cause financial hardship to ongoing operations.

Article IV – Membership Meetings and Voting Bylaw Language: Section 4.01 – Annual Meeting There will be one general membership meeting per year held in the fall quarter. The date and time of such meetings shall be set by resolution or motion of the Board.

Rationale for changes: Our current bylaws require that the Annual Meeting be held in October.

We’re proposing that the meeting be held in the fall quarter, but not limit us to one specific month.

Bylaw Language: Section 4.02 – Special Meetings Special meetings of the members may be called at any time by a majority of the Board of Directors and shall be called when a petition stating the purpose of the meeting signed by five percent (5%) of all members eligible to vote is presented to the Board.

Rationale for changes: Our current bylaws allow the Board President to call a special meeting.

We’re proposing that a majority vote of the Board be required to call a special meeting. We’re maintaining the language that a special meeting can be called when a petition signed by five percent of all members eligible to vote is presented to the Board.

Bylaw Language: Section 4.03 – Meeting Notice Notice of time, place, and agenda of all meetings, including all written voting and ballot materials, shall be given personally, by mail, by electronic transmission by the cooperative, (California Corporations Code section 20 and 21) addressed to the Member at the address shown on the books of the co-op of each member at least thirty (30) days prior to these meetings and shall be posted in all of the North Coast Co-op’s buildings, unless otherwise provided in these bylaws.

Rationale for changes: We have simplified the language of this section, reducing it from three paragraphs to one.

Bylaw Language: Section 4.04 – Member Date of Record The record date for determining the members entitled to vote at a meeting

or cast written ballots is Forty Five (45) days before the date of the meeting.

Rationale for changes: No change.

lots. Ballots shall contain names of all candidates for election, plus write-in space for each available general election seat.

Bylaw Language: Section 4.05–Action at Membership Meeting No binding action shall be taken on items at a meeting without the presence of a quorum.

Rationale for changes: Added “active” membership as a requirement for a received ballot to be valid. “Inactive” membership, as defined in Section 2.07 (see March issue of the Co-op News) of these proposed bylaws.

Rationale for changes: This section replaces current bylaws Sections 4.10 and 4.11, simplifying the language.

Bylaw Language: Section 4.06 – Voting Each membership shall have the right to one vote in North Coast Co-op elections. No membership may have more than one vote and there shall be no proxy voting in North Coast Co-op elections.

Rationale for changes: Streamlines current bylaw language.

Maintains one membership, one vote regardless of the number of shares a membership may have. Clarifies that it is the membership that holds the right to vote, not each person affiliated with the membership (where the membership is for a household).

Bylaw Language: Section 4.07 – Ballots All elections shall be held by ballots distributed at store locations and by mail to members and which can be returned by mail or in person to sealed ballot boxes in all retail outlets. Ballots shall be mailed no less than 30 days before the annual meeting to all current, active members of record per Section 4.04.

The date of the election shall be clearly printed on the ballot. Ballots shall be counted and the results announced at the annual meeting if practical and/ or by signs posted in all retail outlets and offices no more than five days after the annual meeting. To be valid, ballot must be: a. Signed by a member and indicate the North Coast Co-op membership number on the ballot, b. From a current, active member, and c. Shall not be from a membership casting more than one ballot.

Member identifying information shall be removed before counting bal-



Bylaw Language: Section 4.08 – Quorum In order for a vote to be considered valid action by the North Coast Co-op’s members, the North Coast Co-op must receive ballots from the lesser of two hundred fifty (250) members or members representing five percent (5%) of all members eligible to vote.

Rationale for changes: No change.

Bylaw Language: Section 4.09 – Action by Written Ballot Without Meeting and Member Initiatives Any action that may be taken at any regular or special meeting, including election of Directors, may be taken without a meeting through distribution of a written ballot to every member entitled to vote on the matter. If approved by the Board of Directors, such ballot and any related material may be sent by electronic transmission by the cooperative (as defined in Section 20 of the California Corporations Code) and responses may be returned to the cooperative by electronic transmission to the cooperative (as defined in Section 21 of the California Corporations Code).

The Secretary shall cause a vote to be taken by written ballot on any action or recommendation proposed in writing by at least twenty percent (20%) of the members, pursuant to the procedures set forth in the Board Policy Manual.

Rationale for changes: Only change is to reference the Board Policy Manual, which contains procedures for handling an action or recommendation proposed in writing by at least twenty percent of the members.

The procedures are not yet defined in the Board Policy Manual , but we feel it is important to give the Board flexibility for more timely issues.

We want to hear from you!

Give your input in the Member Survey on p. 12 for a chance to win a $25 gift card.

Questions? Contact the Board at board@northcoastco-op.com or contact our Membership Coordinator at (707) 826-8670 ext. 135.

www.northcoast.coop 14

P

GO PA

S S E L R E

for Earth Day Receive a digital copy of the Co-op News and say “no more” to paper. You’ll have one less newspaper to recycle and you’ll be helping to save the planet, all with one email. Send your request to co-opnews@northcoastco-op.com with the subject line “Go Paperless.” Please include your full name & Member number.

CO-OP NEWS Board Activities Board of Directors Meetings Co-op members invited to attend.

Apr 24 | 6-8pm Co-op Community Kitchen, Arcata store location May 22 | 6-8pm Co-op Community Kitchen, Eureka store location June 26 | 6-8pm Co-op Community Kitchen, Arcata store location

May 11 Atalanta’s Victory Run & Walk Starts and ends at the Co-op’s Arcata location parking lot.

The Co-op is honored to host this race for more than 30 years! Register to run or walk at www.6rrc.com or find the registration form in the March issue of the Co-op News.

Co-op Sponsored Events Apr 5 Tri-County Independent Living 7th Annual

Humboldt Pie Fundraiser. Visit www.tilinet.org for more information.

Co-op Action Committee

Apr 19 Sustainable Living Skills Fair from 9:30am

Finance Committee May 15 | 5:30-6:30 at the Co-op’s upstairs conference

Apr 19-27 Humboldt Green Week showcases local

Meets at the Board’s request. No meetings scheduled at this time.

room in Arcata. Members are invited to attend.

Co-op at Events

Apr 11 HSU Spring Preview at Humboldt State University. Parents and incoming students will be touring campus and our towns, and the Co-op will be there to greet them! Contact Lauren Fawcett at (707) 443-6027 ext.

102.

Apr 17 Eureka Chamber Mixer at the Co-op’s

Eureka location. The Co-op is excited to once again host this fun event and showcase our awesome food! Eureka Chamber members invited to attend. Contact the Eureka Chamber at (707) 442-3738.

to 4pm at the Jefferson Community Center in Eureka. For more info visit www.jefferson-project.org.

CO-OP MEMBERS, Backpacking in the wilderness can be such an exhilarating and satisfying experience if you know what to prepare for, especially what to eat. We’re inviting our members to share their tips on what it takes to satisfy hunger in our pristine Humboldt wilderness.

What do you eat and how do you pack it (in and out)?

businesses, supports nonprofits, and celebrates Humboldt’s passion for gardening, the arts, and live music with events around the county. Learn more at www.humboldtgreenweek.com.

May 3 Six Rivers Planned Parenthood Choice Affair Gala Dinner and Auction. Visit www.plannedparenthood. org/srpp for more information.

Deadlines Apr 15 GMO Free Humboldt petition (see p. 9) Apr 30 Responses to Backpacking Tips (see right) Apr 30 Member Surveys due (see p. 12) Apr 30 Giveaway entries due (see p. 1)

Contact Brenda Harper at (707) 826-8670 ext.

123 or email brendaharper@northcoastco-op.com.