2024
FROM THE GM
THE POWER OF CO-OPS: BUILDING STRONGER COMMUNITIES TOGETHER
As the General Manager of the Ashland Food Co-op, I’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact that co-ops can have on a community. Co-ops like ours are more than just places to shop— they’re community hubs, where people come together to support each other, local farmers, and sustainable practices. But what really makes co-ops special is the way they’re owned and governed by the people who use them— our members and owners.
Co-ops are built on the idea of shared ownership. When you become a member-owner of the Ashland Food Co-op, you’re not just investing in a store—you’re investing in your community. This shared ownership model means that we can focus on what’s best for our members, rather than just turning a profit. And the benefits of being a co-op member are something we’re especially proud of.
At the Ashland Food Co-op, our members enjoy a range of benefits that make a real difference. Every year, we distribute a portion of our profits back to our owners through our Patronage Dividend. The more you shop, the more you receive—this is our way of saying thank you for supporting us.
We also offer special discounts throughout the year, including 10% off one entire purchase six times annually and a 3% discount on gift cards purchased with cash or check. Our quarterly e-newsletter, the 1st Street Beet, keeps you
updated on everything happening at the Co-op and in Southern Oregon. Plus, our educational classes, covering topics like cooking, gardening, and sustainability, are discounted for owners.
Our commitment to the community goes beyond our store. In 2023, we gave over $116,000 through our AFC Gives programs, donated 28,000 pounds of food to those in need, and diverted 100,000 pounds of food scraps to farm animals. Local products are at the heart of what we do, with over $3.6 million in sales coming from goods produced within 100 miles of our store.
By being an owner, you’re also invited to get involved in shaping the future of our Co-op. From voting in Board elections to serving on committees, your voice matters.
Co-ops like the Ashland Food Co-op are proof that when people come together, they can create something truly special. Whether you’re looking for high-quality local products, a way to give back to your community, or just a great place to shop, we invite you to join us and become a part of the Co-op family.
Warm regards,
Nick Hardee General Manager, Ashland
Food Co-op
Fall & Winter 2024
EVENTS & CLASSES
Wednesday, October 2nd, 6pm
Medicare 101
Charles Chesnut, Local Licensed Insurance Agent
This short program is to help understand the basics of how the Medicare System works and how it may affect you.
Friday, October 4th, 4:30-6:30pm Fall Festival for FOTAS
Come support Friends of the Animal Shelter at our Fall Festival fundraiser. Bring the whole family for kids’ activities, live music, food from Rogue Food Unites, drinks provided by Noble Fox, bake sale goodies, and more!
Wednesday, October 23rd, TIME
Peri-Menopause Education & Support Circle
Athena Rose M.Ed.Educator & Herbalist
Sliding scale $30-$45
Join Athena Rose and this community of Sisters and find support on your peri-menopause journey.
Friday, Oct 25th, 6-8pm
Powered By Yogurt, Yogurt Making Essentials
Gil Phelps – Yogurt Ambassador
$50 Owners l $45 Community
This class is hands-on and interactive and requires teamwork to collectively make yogurt. Students may take a sample jar home for incubation, or apply the newly gained knowledge to start your own batch at home.
Thursday, November 7th. 6-8pm
Brewing Mead and Cider
Chris Byrne, Mead and Cider Aficionado
$50 Owners l $45 Community
Join the Co-op’s own Chris Byrne and learn how to brew mead and cider from scratch!
**This is a 21+ class
**Participants are invited to meet in 6-12 weeks to help bottle the finished product.
**Those that can’t attend the bottling will have a bottle set aside for them
Wednesday, Oct 30th, 6-8pm Día de los Muertos Free
Join us in celebrating Dia de los Muertos by decorating a frame for your loved ones, which will be displayed on our ofrenda in front of the store from October 31st to November 2nd.Snacks, frames, and decorations will be provided. You are welcome to bring your own decorations as well.
Saturday, November 9th 9am-12 pm
Adopt-a-Park
We’re thrilled to have adopted North Mountain Park through Ashland’s Adopta-Park program, offering quarterly opportunities for 10 community members and 10 Co-op staff to join together in its clean-up and maintenance.
Coffee and snacks will be provided.
Note about the cost of classes. Thank you to our community for your continued support of our local economy. The Ashland Food Co-op curates our classes with the instructors and the community in mind. Due to a rise in the cost of goods, it is in the best interest of our instructors, that we increase the cost of our classes.
DECEMBER
Saturday, December 14th, 11 am-3pm
Ashland Food Co-op Cookie Party
Free
Join us in the Co-op Community Classroom for our annual Cookie Celebration! We will have cookies with all the fixings to create your masterpieces.
We encourage each participant to bring a nonperishable item. Contributions will be donated to the Ashland Community Food Bank.
Wednesday, December 18th, 6pm-8pm
Healing through Energy and Touch
Free
Andrey Pravda, LMT - He/Him
Join Andrey Pravda as he introduces his self-developed healing method, Soft Technique Manual Therapy which offers treatment for a wide range of musculoskeletal disorders, including golfer’s/tennis elbow, sciatica, and scoliosis.
A Magical Pharm Tour
In September we partnered with our friends at Herb Pharm to give away a farm tour at their Williams location! Five lucky Co-op shoppers and a guest got to spend the morning at Herb Pharm, touring the gardens and facilities and learning about the wonderful world of herbal tinctures and extracts. After that the winners witnessed a monarch butterfly release, shared a delicious Co-op lunch and received a special goodie bag from Herb Pharm. We’re already looking forward to the next one!
What is Co-op Carrots?
Co-op Carrots is an interactive and educational opportunity for kids ages 14 and under to learn more about their Co-op.
Co-op Carrots participants will receive a special Co-op Carrots backpack, stickers, name tag, and more! Ask any produce employee for an exclusive sticker of the month and receive a free piece of fruit!
Signing up is free, just visit ashlandfood.coop/co-op-carrots
From the Education Coordinator
MAHLEA RAMSEY
Autumn is my favorite time of the year. The colors, the weather, pumpkin spice flavoring! There is something magical about the temperatures dropping and the world settling into a more “cozy” existence. One of my favorite things this time of year is to sit by the fireside with a furry companion. Their antics crack me up and warm my heart. are you supposed to visit all of them?
The Hawaiian word for “pet owner” is “kahu”, which roughly translates to Guardian, Protector, Stewart, and Beloved attendant. Looking at the animals I share my home with I feel a great responsibility to protect these loving, and loyal creatures.
So it brings me great joy to coordinate our upcoming Fall Festival for FOTAS which will
take place on Friday, October 4th from 4 to 7pm in the Co-op Courtyard. The event will include music by Chasing Keridwyn, food from Rogue Food Unites, drinks provided by Noble Fox, bake sale goodies, raffle items, kids’ activities, and more.
Friends of the Animal Shelter will be accepting donations and providing volunteer information. All proceeds will benefit Friends of the Animal Shelter. To make a donation ahead of time or learn more visit: ashlandfood.coop/ participation/events/fall-festival-fotas.
Come bring your family and friends to enjoy the music, kids activities and make a donation. We will have a bake sale, bubble water drinks and more available for a purchasable donation to FOTAS.
2024 for FOTAS
ALL PROCEEDS WILL GO TO FOTAS Fundraiser
F DAY, OCTOBER 4 FREE EVENT • 4–7PM CO-OP COURTYARD
LIVE MUSIC FROM CHASING KERIDWYN
Come support Friends of the Animal Shelter’s non-profit organization! All proceeds will be donated to FOTAS.
Enjoy delicious eats from Rogue Food Unites food truck! Purchase Beer, Wine and Non-alcoholic Beverages from Noble Fox! Kid Activities, Ra es, Giveaways and more!
To donate ahead of time or find out how you can support our local pets in need, check out our Eventbrite page.
Find the co-op at the pride parade! Stop by to say hi
SOPride has events taking place from October 2nd through October 6th and we asked Gina DuQuenne, Founder and President of SOPride, to give us the rundown.
Community and Allies, it’s time to dust off your banners and floats, the Pride Parade is coming Saturday, October 5th 2024! This year marks our 14th Annual SOPride Festival, and the theme is FREEDOM – the freedom to love. Now, more than ever, we feel the need to be free, respected, and accepted for who we are. This idea of acceptance leads perfectly into the introduction of our 2024 Grand Marshal, a local hero: Justin Huertas! An award-winning playwright, composer, lyricist, and actor, Justin is best known for his original musical Lizard Boy. I had the privilege of meeting this incredibly talented person, and it’s an honor to celebrate Pride alongside him this year.
Let’s take it to the street and celebrate acceptance, diversity, love, community and FREEDOM!
Here are the events SOPride is hosting this year:
Wednesday, October 2nd - Southern Oregon Drag Pageant at Camelot Theatre
Thursday, October 3rd - Queer Bingo at Paschal Winery
Friday, October, 4th - 1st Friday Pride Walk
Saturday, October 5th - SOPride Parade with vendor booths, food trucks, DJ and dancing at the Lithia Park Bandshell
Sunday, October 6th - Drag it OUT Sunday
Want to show your support and have a great time? Be part of the Pride Parade - it’s fun and it’s free! Go to www.sopride.org to fill out your application, sign up to volunteer or find out more about the Pride events.
Monster Dash Magic:
HOW ASHLAND SCHOOLS FOUNDATION IS MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Ashland Schools Foundation (ASF) has been a cornerstone in supporting our local schools through innovative programs and funding that directly impacts students and educators.This October, ASF is gearing up for one of its most anticipated events of the year—the annual Monster Dash fundraiser. Set against the backdrop of the Halloween season, this spooktacular event brings the community together for a day of fun, fitness, and fundraising. We caught up with Erica Thompson, the Executive Director of ASF, to learn more about the Monster Dash and how you can get involved.
AFC: Can you tell us a bit about the history of the Monster Dash and how it became a signature event for Ashland Schools Foundation?
ET: The Monster Dash was started 16 years ago by the Ashland Kiwanis club to raise funds for the Ashland Schools Foundation. Thanks to the diligent efforts of our incredible partners and volunteers, the event has only continued to grow since then!
AFC: What makes this year’s Monster Dash different or special compared to previous years?
ET: A few years ago, we added a Monster
Activity Village full of fun, free, interactive experiences for families. This element of the event continues to grow and evolve, and will be bigger and better than ever this year! We’re especially looking forward to live demos of Ashland Schools Foundation Classroom Impact Grants in action. Additionally, we’re hoping to top last year’s record-breaking attendance, registration, and costume contest participation!
AFC: How does the money raised from the Monster Dash directly benefit students and schools in our community?
ET: Every dollar raised through registrations, sponsorships, our online silent auction, t-shirt sales and event donations go directly into Ashland classrooms through ASF’s grant programs. Classroom teachers and staff throughout the Ashland School District can complete a simple online application to let us know what great ideas they have to enrich their classrooms. Then, over the course of three deadlines throughout the school year, ASF awards over $125,000 directly to classrooms for project supplies, materials, guest instructors and more. We’re expecting to see an especially high number of requests this year, given recent trends. The Monster Dash is our only fundraising event of the year, and it makes a huge impact on our ability to offer this critical support to our classrooms.
AFC: What are some ways community members can participate in or support the Monster Dash, even if they’re not runners?
ET: We have a great deal of non-runners walking (or zombie-crawling!) through the 1-mile event. It’s a fun, non-serious run/walk event that provides a great opportunity to show off costumes and connect with fellow families in gorgeous, fall-colored Lithia Park. All community members and families are also welcome to join us for the fun, free activities on site the day of the event! There is plenty to do and see without participating in the race, including an obstacle course, potion-making, live music, snack-tasting, crafting and more!
AFC: What are you most looking forward to at this year’s event?
ET: I just love seeing everyone’s smiling (and sometimes painted) faces the day of the event. So many different community members, families and businesses show up to celebrate the season and have some fun. My favorite part might be seeing everyone’s creative costumes. It’s just a day full of spirited energy, and I feel so lucky to be a part of it!
Other quick facts:
• 16th Annual
• Saturday, October 26
• Monster Activity Village 9a-1p
• Medals for all racers
• Prizes for winners
• Silent Auction
• Last year we had a record breaking registration of 1,241 and are already pacing ahead of that
• AFC will be hosting their popular build-yourown-trailmix station again!!
• AFC/RoCo will also be providing hot coffee and cocoa
• 100% of proceeds go to our grant programs
• Always looking for volunteers! They can sign up for our volunteer mailing list and be the first to know when shifts become available
The Impact of Co-ops in Their Communities
COOPERATIVES (CO-OPS) PLAY A VITAL ROLE IN STRENGTHENING LOCAL COMMUNITIES, AND ASHLAND FOOD CO-OP IS NO EXCEPTION.
Unlike traditional businesses driven primarily by profit, Co-ops are built on a foundation of shared ownership and democratic decision-making. This unique model prioritizes the well-being of the community, the environment, and the people who make the Co-op thrive.
At their core, Co-ops exist to serve their members, who also own the business. This gives members a direct say in how the Co-op operates and allows them to contribute to the greater good of the community. By keeping profits local, supporting sustainable practices, and fostering inclusivity, Co-ops like AFC make a real difference.
Co-op Principles:
THE FOUNDATION OF COOPERATION
The values that guide Co-ops around the world are embodied in the internationally recognized Co-op Principles, which all cooperatives follow. These principles ensure that Co-ops operate with fairness, transparency, and a commitment to the communities they serve.
Voluntary and Open Membership
Co-ops are open to everyone, without discrimination.
Democratic Member Control
Members have equal voting rights, giving everyone a voice.
Member Economic Participation
Profits are returned to members or reinvested in the Co-op.
Autonomy and Independence
Co-ops remain independent from external influences.
Education, Training, and Information
Co-ops educate their members to foster informed participation.
Cooperation Among Cooperatives
Co-ops work together to strengthen the cooperative movement.
Concern for Community Co-ops focus on improving the communities they serve.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Cooperatives believe we are stronger when a proactive effort is put forth to engage everyone in governance,
The 8th Principle:
ADVANCING DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION
Recently, AFC has adopted the 8th Co-op Principle, which emphasizes a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). This principle is a natural extension of the values Co-ops have always upheld, but it directly addresses the need to foster greater inclusivity within the cooperative movement.
By embracing the 8th Principle, AFC is actively working to create a more welcoming environment for people from all walks of life. This means creating policies and programs that address inequalities, ensuring that the Co-op remains a safe, respectful, and inclusive space for everyone. It also reflects AFC’s dedication to building a cooperative that mirrors the diversity of our community while empowering marginalized voices.
Co-ops and the Future of
Community
In a time when many businesses are consolidating power and wealth, Co-ops stand out as an alternative. By focusing on shared values, mutual support, and sustainable practices, Co-ops provide a space where the community thrives—not just economically, but socially and environmentally as well. Ashland Food Co-op’s commitment to the 8th Principle reflects an even deeper dedication to these values, ensuring that the Co-op continues to serve as a hub of positive change in the community.
As AFC continues to grow, its focus on equity, inclusion, and sustainability will shape the future of both the Co-op and the community it serves. By participating in AFC, members are investing in a business model that’s built to last, one that puts people and the planet first.
Together, we can create a more equitable and sustainable future, one that starts with supporting Co-ops and the values they stand for. 1 2 3 4 6 7 5 8
PEAK SEASON
Peaches Aplenty at Ashland Food Co-op
BY JEFFREY OWENS, PRODUCE RETAIL SPECIALIST, NATIONAL CO+OP GROCERS
Here’s a “peachy” story that shares what showcasing local produce is all about.
Ashland Food Co-op purchased this season’s fruit crop from Rolling Hills Farm and also took control of orchard operations, led by the co-op’s dynamic produce manager, Joe Reyes. Joe has been integral in the coop’s transition to orchard operator, all while managing a produce department at the coop averaging $135,000 in weekly sales!
Peaches are the main crop, but the orchard
at Rolling Hills Farm also grows nectarines, plums and Asian pears. The peaches and other fruit are certified organic since the first planting 30 years ago. The fruit is tree-ripened to perfection and is known to be the “peach” of the Rogue Valley community.
Through this partnership with Rolling Hills Farm, Ashland Food Co-op has also supplied fruit to Medford Food Co-op and First Alternative Co-op in Corvallis. The peaches have been sold to local supermarkets in the area, too.
Our Produce Manager Joe keeps us stocked with the freshest local fruits and vegetables around!
Look for the Local label in the produce section and keep an eye out for produce from Fry Family, Wandering Roots, Shasta View, Red Butte Whistling Duck, HiHoe and Opatchen!
Lots of bright and delicious produce is coming our way in the next few months!
As the seasons shift, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the bounty of fresh, local fruits and vegetables that thrive in cooler weather. Eating seasonally means enjoying produce at its peak of flavor and nutrition, while also supporting local farmers and reducing the environmental impact of transporting food long distances. From crisp apples and pears to hearty root vegetables like squash and sweet potatoes, here are a few seasonal favorites that not only taste great but also help keep us connected to our local food system.
Fruits
Pears
Apples
Quince
Pomegranates
Persimmons
Jujubes
Pumpkins
Vegetables
Mushrooms
Radicchio
Chicory
Artichokes
Broccoli
Carrots
Parsnips
SIMPLE Soups & Stews
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, there’s nothing more comforting (or cost-effective) than a warm bowl of soup or stew.
Soups are a great way to make the most of seasonal ingredients like squash, mushrooms, sweet potatoes, and hearty greens. They’re also incredibly budget-friendly when you shop the bulk section for dried beans, grains, and herbs. Plus, soups are versatile—you can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand. Whether you’re craving something creamy, hearty, or a bit spicy, these simple yet delicious recipes will keep you nourished and cozy all season long.
ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH SOUP
Butternut squash is a fall favorite, known for its sweet, nutty flavor. Paired with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this creamy soup is a cozy dish perfect for chilly days.
INGREDIENTS
1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cubed
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for roasting
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Toss the butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25-30 minutes until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until softened.
3. Add the roasted squash, vegetable broth, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Use an immersion blender to purée until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds.
HEARTY LENTIL AND KALE STEW
Packed with nutrient-dense kale and hearty lentils, this stew is a winter go-to. Both lentils and kale are in peak season, providing warmth and sustenance in every bite.
INGREDIENTS
1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed 1 onion, chopped 2 carrots, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 bunch kale, stems removed and chopped
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can diced tomatoes
1 tsp thyme
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
1. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and garlic until softened.
2. Add lentils, vegetable broth, tomatoes, thyme, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2530 minutes.
3. Stir in chopped kale and cook for another 5-10 minutes until tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
CREAMY PARSNIP AND APPLE SOUP
Sweet parsnips and tart apples create a smooth and balanced soup that embodies fall.This comforting recipe highlights the unique flavors of these seasonal root vegetables.
INGREDIENTS
4 parsnips, peeled and chopped
2 apples, peeled, cored, and chopped
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1/2 cup coconut milk (or cream)
1 tsp ground ginger
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for sautéing
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté onions and garlic until soft.
2. Add parsnips, apples, and ginger. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until parsnips are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to purée the soup. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
MUSHROOM AND BARLEY SOUP
Mushrooms thrive in fall and winter, and their earthy flavor pairs beautifully with nutty barley in this rustic soup. It’s a nourishing bowl of warmth on cold days.
INGREDIENTS
1 cup pearl barley
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups mixed mushrooms, sliced
6 cups vegetable broth
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Cook the barley according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, sauté onions, carrots, and garlic until soft.
3. Add mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes until softened.
4. Pour in vegetable broth, soy sauce, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked barley and season with salt and pepper.
SWEET POTATO AND BLACK BEAN CHILI
Sweet potatoes and black beans make this chili both filling and flavorful. The natural sweetness of the potatoes contrasts with the spices, creating a rich, hearty dish ideal for a cold night.
INGREDIENTS
2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
1 onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste Olive oil for sautéing
INSTRUCTIONS
1. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until soft.
2. Add diced sweet potatoes, cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in black beans, tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until sweet potatoes are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper, and serve with toppings like avocado or cilantro.
La Riojana:
A COOPERATIVE SUCCESS STORY
At Ashland Food Co-op, we’re proud to carry La Riojana wines, a testament to the power of the cooperative model.
Located in Argentina’s stunning Famatina Valley, La Riojana is not only the world’s largest Fairtrade-certified wine producer but also the country’s largest wine cooperative. Established in 1940, this cooperative has grown from a small bodega formed by Italian wine growers into a thriving community of over 500 grower families. Together, they farm over 2,200 hectares of vineyards and produce awardwinning Fairtrade and organic wines.
At its core, La Riojana exemplifies the true spirit of cooperation. Each grower in the cooperative, no matter how small their landholding, has an equal say in decisions. This democratic approach ensures that the farmers’ voices are heard, and their needs are prioritized. As members of the cooperative, growers benefit from fair prices for their grapes, profit distribution, and access to essential services such as credit, financial assistance, and technical support. These resources are vital in helping the farmers not only survive but thrive within their local communities.
La Riojana is deeply committed to sustainable practices, both in the vineyard and the winery. The Famatina Valley, with its high-altitude vineyards, sunny days, cool nights, and minimal rainfall, provides the perfect environment for organic cultivation. The cooperative’s focus on sustainable and responsible winemaking ensures that the natural beauty of this region is preserved. La Riojana is also expanding its organic and biodynamic wine production, a reflection of its dedication to protecting the
environment for future generations.
One of the driving forces behind La Riojana’s success is chief winemaker Dr. Rodolfo Griguol. Known as the “King of Torrontes,” Rodolfo brings over 40 years of experience to his role, continuing the legacy of his father, an original member of the cooperative. Under his leadership, La Riojana produces approximately 25 million liters of wine annually, ensuring that each bottle reflects the unique terroir of the Famatina Valley.
La Riojana is more than just a wine producer; it’s a cooperative that uplifts its members and fosters sustainable agricultural practices. By choosing La Riojana wines at Ashland Food Co-op, you are supporting a model that values fairness, community, and environmental stewardship. Whether you’re enjoying a glass of their signature Torrontés Riojano, Syrah, or Malbec, you can raise a toast to the cooperative spirit that makes La Riojana—and its wines—so special.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Joanna Wnorowski Pecoraro President Kevin Bendaw Vice President
Bob Kaplan Secretary
Mark Gibbs Treasurer Abby Lazerow Board Administrator
Erica Thompson Director
Kathryn Kavanagh Director
Ernesto Soto Director
Jennifer Gibbs Director
Third Places Should Come First in Social Planning
KATHRYN KAVANAGH, AFC BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Our lives are an interconnected mosaic of places and spaces, with the amount of time spent in them spanning expedient to leisurely. In the world of urban planning, spaces are often broken down into three categories—home, work, and the “third place”. First and foremost of places is the home, a place all one’s own where people usually spend the most time. Second is the workplace, where we go to fulfill our jobs (and hopefully our lives as well!) Lastly, the vital, yet often overlooked “third place”—spaces we go for purposes other than work or homelife. A third place is a conduit for community life, where people are free to gather, interact, and relax in the public sphere. Think libraries, cafes, parks and plazas, the Ashland Food Co-Op, bookstores, a public place to meet a friend or spend some time. Third spaces, ideally, are accessible homes-away-from home, places that are neutral and welcoming, free of charge and open to all. Places where strangers can become friends, places where people can find mutual understanding, places we can enjoy and simply be.
When I think of third spaces, I picture features that facilitate positive interactions among
people—food, nature, ideas, or shared passions such as crafts and games. An abundance of third places provides opportunities for vibrant community life, thriving towns, bustling businesses, greater public trust, and even unique cultures. By dedicating more room for third places, there is no limit to the social benefits that can unfold. Perhaps the next big ideas on how to improve the town, or society at-large, emerge from and uplift these places embedded within our social fabric. How well are people able to satisfy their needs in these three types of places, and how well are they able to move between them? After all, what do we want most out of our shared public spaces? Is it an environment that urges grab-and-go, quick transactions? Or, inviting spaces that encourage spending time, becoming regulars, and living life that feels good? What kind of places can we cultivate that people happily choose to participate in and build upon, and how might those places contribute to a legacy of strong community in our town and beyond? With a little love and strategic planning, these “third places” may just become first in our hearts.
Your Co-op is Hiring!
At the Ashland Food Co-op, we’re more than just a grocery store — we’re a vibrant community united by our shared love of good food, sustainability, and a true enjoyment of WHAT we do, WHY we do it and WHO we get to do it with – each and every day!
As a cooperative, we’re part of a global movement that believes people and the planet come first, always. This guiding principle is what makes our Co-op so special and why we are continuously seeking to attract such an incredible team of passionate individuals who make this place feel like home.
We’re always on the lookout for friendly, selfmotivated team players who are eager to make a positive impact. If you’re the type (or know of
anyone) who gets excited about rolling up your sleeves, working alongside awesome coworkers, and helping to make our community healthier and happier, you’ll fit right in!
With every smile, every effort, and every shared laugh, our team brings the Co-op’s mission to life.
If you’re ready to join a place where every day feels meaningful (or know of someone who’s ready) take a look at our current openings: https://ashlandfood.coop/employment/currentjob-openings
We can’t wait to welcome the new addition(s) to our Co-op family!
In 2024, Co-op Owners
Remember
Sponsorships & Donations
Here are a few of the projects, events and organizations AFC sponsored or gave donations to in the third quarter of 2024:
Ashland Climate Collaborative Farmers Market Compost Bins 2024
Streets 4 Everyone/AshlandClimate Collaborative - First Friday Bike Rides
Ashland Folk Collective 2024 Summer Concert Series
Phoenix High School Baseball Uniforms for 2024
Emigrant Disc golf course Sponsored Hole 2024
Ashland High School Volleyball Team AHS GIRLS VOLLEY FUNDRAISER
Rogue Food Unites - In-Kind Donation (800 Bags for Medford Farmers Market)
Ashland Community Food Bank In-Kind Donation of Rolling Hills Peaches
Hearts with a Mission Auction 2024
Rogue Food Unites
Ashland Climate Collaborative
Ashland Community Food Bank
OCTOBER
Talent Elementary
Outdoor Discovery Program
Outdoor Discovery Fall Raffle
5 24 19 26
Rogue World Music Gather ‘Round the Railroad District
Ashland Schools Foundation Monster Dash 2024 Stop by to say hi to us! Be sure to check
KS Wild Annual Dinner Fundraiser Auction
OCTOBER
Upcoming Holidays
Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Filipino American History Month, LGBT History Month, National Disability Employment Awareness Month, & Polish American Heritage Month
2-4: Rosh Hashanah
11-12: Yom Kippur
14: Indigenous Peoples Day
31: Halloween
31: Diwali
31-Nov. 2: Dia de los Muertos
NOVEMBER
National Veterans and Military Families Month & National American Indian Heritage Month
11: Veterans Day
16: International Day for Tolerance
NOVEMBER Cont...
20: Transgender Day of Remembrance
25: International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women
28: Thanksgiving
29: Native American Heritage Day
DECEMBER
Universal Human Rights Month
1: World Aids Day
3: International Day of Disabled Persons
10: International Human Rights Day
25: Christmas
25-Jan. 2: Hanukkah
26-Jan.1: Kwanzaa
The Ashland Food Co-op's "Change for Good" program, introduced in 2020, is a way for us to foster community support and philanthropy. Over the course of three years, this initiative has not only become a staple at the Co-op but has also demonstrated the power of collective giving. By inviting customers to round up their purchases to the nearest dollar at the register, this program has raised over $250,000.00 with every cent going to our partner organizations. JULY Peace House AUGUST Rogue River Watershed Council
Friends of the CascadeSiskiyou National Monument $7,051.64 $6,738.57 $6,036.74
Everyone is welcome to shop at the Co-op and deserves to have access to organic, healthy, and a ordable foods. The Ashland Food Co-op’s CAN program strives to support economically challenged co-op owners by o ering a discount to eligible families and individuals.
CAN participants will receive an everyday 10% discount throughout the store. Enrollment is simple! Visit our website at AshlandFood.Coop/CAN or stop by the Information Desk for an application.
