March 2024 Honest Slate

Honest SLATE

Membership Elects 4 to Board, Approves all FPM Updates

We were pleased to have 226 MOs join us at our April 28, 2024, remote HWFC Membership Meeting! Thank you to all who joined us.

• Election for Seats on the Board of Directors

Thank you to all candidates for your willingness to serve the HWFC community! 209 valid ballots were cast (a candidate must achieve 25% of the votes cast in order to be elected).

Four MOs were elected to the Board:

Yevette Buddeau, 179 votes (86%)

Wendy Hord, 152 votes (73%)

Steve Golub, 150 votes (72%)

Joseph Casan, 143 votes (68%)

• Food & Product Manual Ballot Questions:

1. Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) & naturally occurring glutamate (update) 208 ballots were cast on this resolution.

Of these ballots: 183 approved; 6 rejected the resolution; 19 preferred not to vote on this issue. Approved by 86% and passed.

2. Roundup™ and active ingredient, glyphosate (update)

208 ballots were cast. 186 approved the resolution; 5 rejected; 17 abstained. Approved by 89%, passed.

3. GMO Bioengineered Foods (addition)

Of 208 ballots cast,180 approved; 5 rejected; 23 abstained. Approved by 87%, passed.

4. Potassium Sorbate (update)

Of 208 ballots cast, 175 approved; 6 rejected; 27 abstained. Approved by 84%, passed.

5. GMO policy labeling mandates update. Of 208 ballots, 186 approved; 5 rejected; 17 abstained. Approved by 89%, passed.

There’s always a lot going on at HWFC. Please join us for a chance to talk & share with each other.

Grab some tea and cookies & chat with fellow Member-Owners one on one, join small groups, or take to the floor and speak to everyone. You can also jot down your thoughts. Your choice! We’ll make sure your messages reach the right committee or person. Membership Meeting rules will apply if addressing the group: 2 minutes, with courtesy and respect for all.

Come and share with other Member-Owners. Show some love for the store YOU own. Never underestimate the power of Member-Owners! Sponsored by your Membership Committee.

Thank you to everyone who helped to make this meeting a success!

With deep appreciation we acknowledge outgoing director Barry Walston for fulfilling his commitment to Honest Weight by completing his term of service on the Board of Directors.

—The Board of Directors

Please note: data recorded from “non-confidential” votes by phone or Survey Monkey have only been used for the election/ voting/ vote-counting process for April 2024 and will not be “data-mined” or used for any other purpose in the future.

See page 3 for RMM highlights.

GET TO KNOW AN MO: Meet Francine Lynch

by Marilyn Paarlberg

The dictionary defines “independent” as “free from the influence, guidance, or control of others; self-reliant.” On the other hand, look up “people-oriented” and you might find “sociable, collaborative, having cooperative values.” Mutually exclusive? MO Francine Lynch proves that it’s possible to be both, for the benefit of oneself and others.

A lifelong New Yorker, Francine earned her bachelor’s degree in education at The College of Saint Rose. After graduation, she started her own house-cleaning business. Describing herself as both independent and organized by nature, she liked the freedom to be her own boss, set her own hours and salary, and be in charge of a working environment with tangible results. Yet at the same time she relied on friends to help her network jobs, and before long her best friend joined the business. “I like bonding with people when I work,” Francine comments.

When her first son was born, Francine wanted to ensure a secure financial foundation for him, so she gave up her house-cleaning business and began taking courses at Sage.

After earning a master’s degree, she began her career as an elementary school teacher, a position she kept until retirement in 2018.

Being a full-time parent and teacher didn’t stifle Francine’s independent sensibilities, though. While continuing to do both, she enrolled at SUNY’s Culinary Arts program in Schenectady, and once again started her own business, this time as a caterer. “It took a lot of organization to plan menus, shop for the ingredients, and then cook it all,” she recalls, “but it was fun.” She limited herself to one big catering job per month, a gig she continued for about six years. Her interest in food preparation and healthy eating gradually led Francine to become a vegan in 2009, later adapting her diet to include eggs. She cites the film and accompanying book Forks Over Knives as influential in her decision.

It was around this time that Francine began to shop at HWFC’s Central Avenue store. She recalls being a little daunted at first by the unfamiliarity of co-op shopping—bringing her own containers to be weighed, remembering to write down PLU codes, etc., but she soon became a regular. She especially remembers the knowledgeable “cheese guy” who gave her great catering ideas for cheese platters. As a new vegan, the Co-op’s array of

Meet Dana Tomlin, Interim CLM (Cooperative Leadership Manager)

Arriving fresh from New Orleans with 20 years in the grocery industry and 25 in natural foods, Dana Tomlin was hired as interim CLM on April 25. She introduced herself at May 7’s Board meeting, revealing extensive operations and management experience.

Notably, Dana’s background includes a stint with the Wheatsville Co-op in Austin, TX, where she started as a cook, became perishables director, and ultimately oversaw several renovations, purchasing, and operations.

Arriving during a time of pivotal change at HWFC did not escape her attention as she shared her familiarity with management departure. Having served on an interim team during Covid, she comes well versed in sup-

“I’m here to be a soft spot during landing.”

ply chain disruption and transition. At one point she considered opening an online culinary school. “Usually Front End or Grocery is a [manager’s] superpower,” she said. “Mine is prepared foods—Deli, Meats and Seafood, Produce, and Bakery.”

Dana, who meets regularly with management and departments, added: “I know there’s some nervousness about the MO program. That’s not me. I like the MO program. Maybe I can help navigate clarity of roles...I’ve enjoyed getting to meet MOs on the floor. You all have a great organization and your reach seems deep in the community. I Iook forward to attending more meetings.”

See related article on page 8.

options for a plant-based diet increased her appreciation for what HWFC had to offer.

From the start, Francine liked the community feeling she sensed at HWFC. She was attracted to the idea of becoming an MO while she was still teaching, but didn’t have time until after she retired. After the COVID pandemic subsided in 2022, she was delighted to put her cooking skills to work in the HWFC kitchen. “I’m comfortable with food prep,” she explains. “I like learning new routines and experimenting with recipes and new food techniques. And I enjoy working and bonding with people who are knowledgeable and curious about new skills.” She speaks very highly of the working environment in the kitchen, and credits Kitchen Manager Ashley Paige for bringing out the best in everybody.

When she’s not at HWFC, you might find Francine at the Pine Hills branch of the Albany Public Library, where she serves as a literacy volunteer. “Yes, I’m independent,” she acknowledges, “but I also find it gratifying to help people learn to help themselves. Helping other people has always been my purpose in life.” In fact, she toys with the idea of a drop-in center at the Co-op for people who want an opportunity to learn or practice their English. (Great idea, Francine!)

Spare time? Francine takes yoga classes for the peace of mind they offer. She’s racked up nearly enough credits to be a certified yoga teacher, although she doesn’t intend to pursue that. “I just like to study for things.” And did we mention her Palette writing club? “I don’t have an interest in publishing,” she demurs. “I do it to make sense of the world.”

Francine’s world in and around HWFC is especially important to her. She loves the community values she witnesses, as opposed to a corporate, profit-chasing environment. She sums it up well:

“I like being part of something bigger than myself.”

Thanks for contributing to that “bigger something” at HWFC, Francine. We’re who we are because of independent, people-oriented MOs like you!

B y the Bylaws

Welcome to a new Honest Slate feature. Each month the Bylaws Panel (BLP) will highlight different sections of the Bylaws. The Bylaws guide all aspects of the governance of Honest Weight Food Co-op. The document is long and detailed because it serves as a combination of a constitution, laws, and regulations. You, the Member-Owners of HWFC, approve all changes to the Bylaws and you may remember the Membership approved a series of changes in 2023.

The Bylaws are a living, breathing document that will need to be updated and/or amended from time to time as the needs of HWFC demand. Wording in the Bylaws must be clear so everyone understands it in the same way. It is also important to understand that the BLP does not make changes at will. The Panel is tasked with developing proposed changes at the request of the Governance Review Council (GRC), the Board, or the Membership (see section 481 of the Bylaws).

This month we highlight section 120.1, which describes the purpose of the Bylaws. This section reminds us that the health and welfare of HWFC depend upon the cooperative relationships between and among Member-Owners, the Board of Directors, Management, and other staff.

April 28 RMM Highlights: Notes & Quotes

AI safety assured: When questions arose on a newly introduced AI recording feature in Zoom meetings, it was clarified that the tool is used only as a backup for documentation and plays no active part in the dialogue or proceedings; that transcription is helpful for people with hearing issues or who are in a space where they need to mute their device. One MO shared that in their previous job, “we also used the function to make meetings more accessible to people who learn better by reading exact transcription versus audio.”

Financial updates were positive. “This year will end better than budgeted, pending any unanticipated expenses,” stated Controller Todd Jackson. “Most grocery stores have fol-

HWFC’s health and welfare depend upon cooperative relationships among Member-Owners, the Board of Directors, Management, and Staff.

As MOs, we have a responsibility to nurture these cooperative relationships with respect for all. Let’s talk about health and welfare. Most of us would agree that one of the main reasons we are Member-Owners of HWFC is we want to have access to fresh, whole, natural food. For HWFC to flourish and be a vibrant resource for MOs and the community, now and for future generations, 120.1 reminds us that Member-Owner participation in the governance of our Co-op is essential and foundational. We, the Member-Owners, own HWFC! We have grown from a buying club to a vibrant store, all because of you!

Never underestimate the power of Member-Owners.

MOs can participate in governance in many ways. All these activities are considered time investments and can be entered in your bank of hours. You can:

• Join a committee

• Visit and check out committee meetings

• Attend Board meetings

• Attend and vote at Regular Membership Meetings

• Get elected to the Board or Governance Review Council, or be appointed to the Bylaws Panel

“I listened a lot before I spoke up.” —a Board candidate

lowed inflation...We’re not trying to be cheaper than Walmart, or like other groceries. We are trying to be us, unique and special.”

Governance groups including GRC, SLRP, NEC, ARC, and DEI presented; Board candidates shared their background skills. Board work session transparency was discussed, with a reminder that confidential matters such as Personnel or legal issues often require privacy.

Commitment to our MO time investment system was upheld; and a request for in-person/hybrid meetings resulted in immediate discussion and action at May’s Board meeting. Stay tuned!

You can find the Bylaws on the HWFC website. Currently appointed BLP members are: Julie Cohen, Cathy Holmes (co-chairs), Saul Rigberg, Lieta Washington, Rich Beer, and Daniel Hoh. You can reach the Bylaws Panel at BLP@Honestweight.coop.

Section 120.1

The objective of these Bylaws is to emphasize that HWFC’s health and welfare depend on a working cooperative relationship among the Membership (with active participation on committees and other governance entities and final approval of all policies), the Board of Directors (with corporate fiduciary and policy development obligations), and Management and Staff (with responsibility for day-to-day store operations).

The Bylaws’ intent is to balance the rights and responsibilities of each of these HWFC community components. The Bylaws are especially intended to encourage participation in HWFC governance. Trust and respect are foundational principles of HWFC and these Bylaws.

After 3 Board candidate forms were submitted prior to the meeting, 2 more MOs were nominated from the floor, totaling 5 candidates running for 4 open seats. Here are some takeaways:

“I want to improve culture in the store and address challenges; I’m willing to do that work.”—Wendy

“Numbers get along with me. I can read, understand, and explain them.”—Steve

“I am excited to continue my job as the Coop moves us into the future...We can blend change...into our identity.”—Yevette, employed for 15 years in various roles including Membership Manager.

“The Co-op makes Albany special. Transparency, inclusivity, and diversity are important to me.”—Joseph, who also advocated for unity, urging all present to avoid thinking of Board members as “not-MOs.”

Exploring HWFC’s Gluten-Free Paradise

by Robin D. Schatz

When I first started eating gluten-free about a decade ago it felt like a prison sentence. Sure, it was better for my gut health, but also soul-sucking and inconvenient. Supermarkets suddenly became wastelands for me, restaurants offered few options for the gluten-challenged, and dinner parties provoked high anxiety.

The good news: it’s easier than ever to follow a gluten-free lifestyle these days, thanks to more societal awareness, better food labeling, and an explosion of gluten-free food options. For example, delicious rice- and bean-based pastas and alternative grains are now readily available. Restaurant menus now often identify gluten-free options.

I’ve also gotten a lot smarter about my diet over the years and have learned to focus on whole, unprocessed foods, particularly those that are plant-based. In some ways, being gluten-free has expanded my culinary horizons, leading me to explore new ethnic cuisines and food products.

Since joining Honest Weight Food Co-op last summer, I’ve been delighted to find that gluten-free products are widely available throughout the store.

So here’s my informal guide to help you explore what’s available to feed yourself or your gluten-free loved ones. I’m skipping the obvious things—potatoes, apples, and other produce, as well as fish and meat. (They are all naturally gluten-free.)

Bulk Department

Here you’ll find an embarrassment of riches. Indulge in the great selection of nuts and dried fruits by the pound. Check out the vast array of beans and rice. And if you’re a

Honest Weight’s options for a plant-based diet deepened this Member-Owner’s appreciation of our store’s offerings.

baker, the selection won’t disappoint. Look out for the big overhead sign that proclaims “Baking, Non Glutenous.” Here you’ll find a whole variety of gluten-free flours, such as buckwheat, teff, and potato flours, as well as grain-free options like green banana, cassava, and coconut flours. If you’re time-pressed or just not that into baking, HWFC offers gluten-free flour mixes in bulk for making pizza, pancakes, brownies, and creme cake, along with recipes posted on the bins.

Aisle 1

If you’re looking for creative meal ideas on a gluten-free diet, do make a stop here. You’ll find international cuisine, as well as baking supplies, sweeteners, condiments, and dressings. That’s where I found noodles made from sea kelp, which I haven’t cooked yet (I’ll keep you posted.) You can also buy gluten-free cake mixes from companies such as Simple Mills and Namaste.

Aisle 2

Come here for all your pasta needs. This is where I was introduced to Palmini, which makes “lasagna” sheets and linguini from hearts of palm. Low in calories, they are gluten-free, grain-free...and delicious. Follow package directions to boil longer for a softer, less vegetal texture. You can find popular gluten-free pasta brands, such as Banza, made from chickpeas, and Bionaturae, which is organic and comes from Italy.

There’s also a great cracker selection here, including Pain des Fleurs crispbreads, made with either quinoa or buckwheat, and RW Garcia’s organic everything crackers, made with corn, seeds, garlic, and onion, and sweet beet crackers that are as red as you’d expect them to be.

Bread Department

If you want to eat local and gluten-free you’re in luck. You can find some great options from the Gluten Free Bakery, based in Chatham, NY, and the maker of the popular Seedy sandwich bread. Also check out Schuylerville, NY–based Saratoga Gluten Free Goods’ delicious, artisanal-looking breads.

Sami’s Bakery, one of the Co-op’s best-selling bread providers, offers gluten free, low carb, keto friendly and vegan bread products made with millet and flax, including sourdough bagels, bread, pizza crust, and chips. Bagel addicted? Try Sami’s gluten-free bagels made with flax and millet. You will hardly feel deprived at all when you toast it and slather it with cream cheese (dairy or vegan).

Deli Department

Too tired to cook? You can find some tasty gluten-free meals and baked goods here to gobble up in the store or take home with you. Amazingly, there are options that are both gluten-free and vegan. (I’ve yet to try them, but the mocha raspberry muffins look awesome.)

Dietary restrictions need not define you.

Whether you are a gluten-free veteran or a newbie just checking out the options, HWFC can make your life a whole lot easier with its robust selection of bulk items, packaged foods, breads, and fresh-baked goodies. Approach the gluten-free lifestyle as a culinary challenge and take the time to learn about cooking and eating gluten-free. In the process, you might be surprised to discover a new favorite food or a special recipe. Best of all, you may realize that dietary restrictions

Being a Co-op in a Competitive World

by Brendan C. Byrne

When I think about the origin of the coop movement, I think about the 1960s and ’70s. Honest Weight was founded in 1976, and Glut, a co-op in Mount Rainier, Maryland, my family belonged to when I was a child, was founded in 1969. The principles that drive the movement today still seem synonymous with the political left of that period: ethical production, environmental stewardship, localism, and fair trade, among others.

However, the co-op model has been around since 1769, when a society of weavers in the southern Scottish town of Fenwick began to use its funds to purchase food in bulk quantities, reselling to members and nonmembers at a discounted price.

A t the time, our economic ecosystem was in an early stage. The industrial revolution was only just beginning, and imperialism would soon be considered, to steal a line from Lenin, the highest stage of capitalism. In the 20th century, Fordism gave way to neoliberalism, and we now find ourselves in the age of what could be called Algorithmic Capitalism.

These upheavals have changed so much about our world that it is potentially difficult to see ourselves in these artisans of an agrarian Scottish town. They certainly didn’t have smartphones, and their worldview, how they saw themselves fitting into their society, their economic ecosystem, and the planet at large, would be almost unrecognizable to us.

Edible Garden Needs Nurturing

by Christine Carpenter

Does spring have you thinking of getting outdoors and getting your hands in the dirt? Our Co-op gardeners are also dreaming of getting back to the garden—and giving back to our HWFC community and neighbors.

Inspired by NYC’s High Line and sustainable growing practices, the Co-op’s many pocket gardens and those that line our patio are designed to showcase native plants and attract and nourish the pollinators who help our gardens flourish.

For the past few growing seasons, the large pots and planters on Honest Weight’s patio have been the home for our Edible Garden project. These beds beautify and are a garden any and all can harvest from.

Herbs, edible flowers, greens (too many!), tomatoes, and more have been our staples, inspiring little ones to sample sweet and sunfilled veggies, right off the vine, garnishing our Co-op cheese and charcuterie platters, and as ingredients for yummy pesto in graband-go lunches for the Free Food Fridge.

Night in the Garden at Honest Weight June 11 • 6pm

Again, this season, we’re looking for friends to help us keep all of our gardens growing.

On June 11 at 6pm we’re hosting a “Night in the Garden.” Come meet the garden gnomes who help these projects grow and learn how you might contribute your time and ideas to these projects too!

Not able to join us on the 11th? Please reach out to Amy Ellis, community relations specialist, at Amy@honestweight.coop to learn more about these garden projects and how you might lend your support. See related article on page 6.

Yet a detail related by John McFadzean, quoted in an August 2007 Guardian article on the Fenwick Weavers, has stayed with me. The Fenwick Weavers’ cooperative “was conceived somewhat secretively...they posted lookouts so they could see anyone who was coming. Landowners disapproved of the workers gathering, and taking their future into their own hands, becoming more organized and self-sufficient.” Capitalism, at the time, was brittle enough that any attempt by the working classes to modify it, much less directly oppose it, was considered a threat.

This feels miles away from HWFC today. We certainly do not operate in secrecy. In fact, we actively try to become less secretive, through marketing and various sales drives designed to bring in new customers and Member-Owners.

In the 255 years since the Fenwick Weavers began buying in bulk, co-ops have been fully absorbed into the economic ecosystem. Yet, like credit unions and nonprofits, co-ops attempt to side-step the capitalist imperative to maximize profit at all cost. This is a tricky balancing act. To operate effectively, co-ops need to make constant concessions to economic reality, many of which lead to contentious internal conversations. These conversations, as fraught as they often are, allow Member-Owners to exercise agency outside of mere purchasing power, a taste of a world in which capital doesn’t rule all.

You don’t need to be an anticapitalist to be a Member-Owner, of course. You can just like buying in bulk or enjoy the sense of community. The Fenwick Weavers undertook their experiment 98 years before the publication of the first volume of Karl Marx’s Capital, the founding text of self-conscious anticapitalism. They weren’t plotting revolution. They were merely trying to make their lives easier.

Rereading McFadzean’s quote, I can’t help but feel some familiarity with the Fenwick Weavers posting lookouts to make sure no landowner was spying on their attempts to level the playing field. When I walk through the doors of Honest Weight, it is as if I’m entering a nice warm burrow in the ground, while outside a cold storm rages.

Hibiscus

by Erin Ethier

Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa), a tropical shrub in the mallow family native to parts of Africa and Asia, can grow up to 8 feet tall. The flower, which can grow to 4 inches across, is typically yellow with a reddish center. The part of the plant used is the calyx, which is the bulb that remains after the petals fall off; it swells and takes on a fruit appearance. The calyx protects the brown egg-shaped fruit. The hibiscus fruit, which is tart and sour, can be used fresh or dried for teas, tinctures, syrups, jams, and more. It is cooling on a hot summer day and makes a great cold brewed tea.

Roll up your sleeves! Come help Outreach

The Co-op’s outreach team, led by Amy Ellis, is in the process of reimagining the program and expanding the community member team. Some of our most successful outreach members are those who already invest time in the store on a regular basis. Outreach opportunities can be inconsistent so oftentimes Member-Owners have a weekly shift in the store and will pick up a monthly shift on the outreach calendar as available. We propose offering a bit of spontaneity and flexibility.

Outreach members have great customer service skills, love talking about all things Co-op, enjoy engaging with people, and overall are just comfortable being in public and talking to others. Reliable transportation to move supplies to and from locations is a must. Ability to lift and carry supplies. Comfortable handling food safely (training is available). It’s an easy lift and can be a lot of fun for those interested. I provide training to all MOs and also all the tools they need to be successful. We work with all age groups. Hours start from the point of pickup

Hibiscus has refrigerant and astringent properties and is believed to benefit many of the body’s systems. It helps to regulate body temperature. It is good for inflammation in the body and soothes irritated tissues. The cardiovascular and circulatory systems are the primary systems impacted by the properties of hibiscus. It is also used to maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels and when there is excess bleeding and heat. Hibiscus’s astringency also affects the kidneys and the urinary and reproductive systems, where again it can alleviate heat, inflammation, and irritation in mucosal membranes. With the kidneys and the urinary system, it acts as a diuretic increasing urine output and helping to reduce uric acid that in turn could help with gout and kidney stones. It is also recommended in the prevention of urinary tract infections. It has similar effects on the GI system where it calms the mucosa and could potentially inhibit the growth of candida.

Honest Weight’s Community Outreach Department has a recurring need for MO time investment. With gardening season ramping up, HWFC also seeks to expand its team of MOs to help with edible garden bed care and native landscape gardening.

See page 5 for related info.

to the end of dropoff. There’s always a pickup, setup, cleanup period before any event and also after. So, for example, a 2-hour event could result in 3 hours of Member investment time.

The greatest asset is you-all so I’m hoping you can help me in identifying folks who may be interested in adding some outreach activities to their Member investment calendars.

Contact Amy Ellis at amy@honestweight. coop or by phone: 518-482-2667 ext. 128

This herb contains flavonoids that are proven to support the production of hyaluronic acid and the synthesis of glycosaminoglycans, both critical factors in the regulation of cell growth, proliferation, promotion of cell adhesion, anticoagulation, and wound repair. It can be used for healing skin wounds and also fissures, skin blemishes, and even traumatic skin injuries.

Hibiscus has high vitamin C content and antioxidants which help to strengthen the immune system, helping to fight off colds and infections. It helps to move stuck mucus, which may alleviate chest and sinus congestion. Hibiscus has such high astringent properties that it can be used during allergy season to help dry out excessive secretions in a runny nose and itchy watery eyes. Drinking a cold brew of hibiscus tea can be used for sunstroke, sunburns, diarrhea, and summer colds. If you have been out in the hot summer sun all day and are feeling overheated, drink some cold hibiscus tea to bring your body temperature back down to normal.

Hibiscus is never recommended during pregnancy as it can lead to the termination of a pregnancy by altering the estrogen and progesterone balance. It has reputed anti-estrogenic properties that may make it difficult to get pregnant. It also inhibits the synthesis or the release of gonadotropins from the pituitary resulting in anti-spermatogenic properties. One could say that it could be used as a birth control, but I wouldn’t rely solely on it for that purpose.

I would also refrain from using hibiscus for medicinal purposes if you are someone with extremely low blood pressure. As always, please check with your doctor or a trained herbalist if you are interested in using hibiscus for more than just the occasional cup of tea. You can find a tea blend called Hibiscus Tisane by Divinitea at the Co-op in the tea section and also dried hibiscus (in both flower and petal form) provided by Mike’s Spice and Frontier, in the bulk herb section (spice aisle).

Renowned for large, showy flowers, hibiscus is also known as rose mallow, hardy hibiscus, rose of sharon, and tropical hibiscus.

Q & A Q & A SUGGESTION BOX

Suggestion Box answers are provided by Honest Weight managers and departments.

Q: Fix register 3 pin pad! ♥

A: Thanks for pointing this out. We’ll address it.

Q: The Bunn coffee grinder on the left (in the Bulk Department) needs several repairs.

A: Please check with a Bulk worker. A talk with one of our Bulk people will provide you with the lowdown on this machine’s special conditions. (They are finicky.)

Q: Why is there Dunkin’ Donuts tea? Doesn’t seem to fit Co-op. THX.

A: Our distributor sent us this. Apparently, they thought it would be a good fit. We do not agree with them and will discontin ue it.

Q: Could someone research the impact of apricot seeds towards cancer? And how many kernels to consume?

Q: Every time I shop there are at least 1 –2 errors. Sales items that don’t ring up as sales, etc. Every time!

A: We’re sorry that happened. We take accuracy very seriously and are taking steps to improve in that area.

A: HWFC does not provide medical advice. We encourage you to discuss this with your physician or other reputable practitioner.

Q: Carry white chia seeds in Bulk please!!

A: They are not available in Bulk. The market demand is minimal and large quantities are not easily available.

Q: Shout-out Nahiem, new Housekeeping employee is an amazing worker and so happy and friendly.

A: We agree! We’re very fortunate to have him on our team!

Q: If you had some explanations/description about some fruits, I might buy them, e.g., pomelos, pixie tangerines.

A: We’ll work on improving our educational signage in Produce.

Q: Please keep getting the pomelos [puhMEH-lows].

A: We plan on keeping them in stock as long as they are seasonally available.

Q: Please restock your Grateful Villages sanitizer in Wellness and provide a funnel to get the last out of the giant jar.

A: We have restocked the sanitizer. Thanks! There should be a funnel available.

Q: Any way we can focus on getting more homemade items made locally or at least in the United States? Please! Thx. 

A: If you know of anybody who crafts items that may fit with our selections, please let us know.

Q: There are no Alternative Baking Company cookies, and the boxes need replacing.

A: We have received more Alternative Baking cookies and will work on getting more boxes.

Q: Hope the conversational Italian group really starts happening in April. Looking forward to it. Grazie!

A: Conversational Italian began April 21 at 7pm.

Q: Please stock Little Gem or Gem lettuce. Thank you.

A: Our growers have already planted their flats. We’ll have to see what comes in. (They ordered their seed long ago.) Check with the Plants Department.

Q: Please stock more high-fiber granola.

A: We recommend that you try Back

Roads Ancient Grains, Grandy Oats Organic Classic, or Battenkill Brittle Vermont Apple Raisin cereal.

Q: The entryway to the café/sitting area is too often blocked/hidden to varying degrees. Why!!

A: We’re working on that area. Please bear with us.

Q: BIG shout-out to staff Anastasia, Dave B., Matt, Nina et. al. for sending all the suggestion “Q&As” for Honest Slate to publish every month. You are much appreciated! Signed, One Happy Editor 

A: Thank you!! We appreciate the praise + think you’re a fabulous editor to work with.

Q: I’m an Instacart driver. I was so amazed and pleased with the help and care and support from the staff in here. They were all amazing. Thank you.

A: That’s awesome! Thanks! It’s nice to hear that.

Q: Please cut back the rosebushes at the corner by the Free Fridge bordering Lawton’s. I will clean out the trash!!

A: Our gardening committee will be trimming and beautifying our grounds with the spring weather’s arrival.

Q: Giuseppe & Nick have been so responsive and amazing! Thank you, guys!

A: They bring a wealth of knowledge and dedication to our Co-op. Thank you for noticing.

Q: Please include male voices on the self checkout. 

A: Hi! Thanks for your suggestion. However, our self-checkout system is nonbinary and requests its voice not be perceived as either male or female. ⃝+♥

A: We’re sorry to hear that; we’ll do the best we can to corral them. Y l

Q: Need corral for carts. Carts have been blown into my vehicle numerous times.

Board Decisions

The HWFC Board of Directors approved the following at May 7’s 6pm Board Meeting:

• Approved minutes of the April 2, 2024, Board Meeting.

• Election of Board Officers:

· Kim Kaiser to continue as President

· Ursula Abrams as Vice President

· Steve Golub to continue as Treasurer

· Wendy Hord to continue as Secretary

• Affirmed decision to hire Dana as consultant to fill CLM role for 3 months; can be extended or shortened.

• Agreed to pursue ideas for more effective RMM open discussions; to provide update to Membership at next open board meeting (June). Discussed current Membership Manager job description; tabled for further discussion at May 16 work session.

• Management Team to discuss staff raises in collaboration with Finance Committee and Board, to be reported back at August’s BOD meeting. Finance Committee meetings are open to attend.

• Personnel Committee removed a member due to repeated absences.

• Due to reaching meeting’s end time, a second board meeting will be scheduled with minimum 7-day notice to discuss Membership Manager job description and RMM notice.

Cindee Herrick

Editors & Contributors

David Bulnes

Brendan Byrne

Christine Carpenter

Stephanie Conde

Amy Ellis

Erin Ethier

Elisa Grimm

Welcome to Our Interim CLM!

We had the pleasure of meeting Dana Tomlin at May 7’s Board meeting. Hired as Interim Cooperative Leadership Manager, Dana will help manage Honest Weight since Doren Hall left employment in late April. Dana brings a wealth of knowledge and experience and a sunny disposition—she’s excited about working with HWFC.

Dana hails from Columinate, a consulting cooperative formerly known as Cooperative Development Services (CDS). CDS consultants worked with former HWFC management and Board teams to all but end our MO time investment program. However, Dana assured us at May 7’s Board meeting that she sees great value in our MO program and has no intention of pushing fundamental changes.

The Board used its emergency authority on April 25 when it voted to hire Dana. May Board meeting attendees indicated that communication from the Board (and opportunity for discussion) was expected, given that meeting’s close proximity to the hiring decision. The Board maintained the need to act quickly before May 7; see statement at right.

We appreciated the Board notifying the Membership of Doren’s departure via April 22’s Inside Scoop. Another could have been sent after this decision and this point was well taken by the Board. We look forward to timely additional Inside Scoops to update us

may 2O24

Contact honestslate@honestweight.coop with questions, comments, or article suggestions.

Submissions Policy

Cathy Holmes

Don Kennison

Sharon Lastique

Allison Newman

Carol Ostrow

Marilyn Paarlberg

Neil Rice

Robin Schatz

Janet Sorell

A Message From the Board of Directors

Honest Weight Food Co-op’s Board of Directors would like to express our regret for inadvertently delaying notification to the Membership regarding recent management changes. The decision to hire an interim CLM was made in order to support our staff and to provide continuity during this period of transition.

We recognize that notifications could have been more promptly provided, and we will strive to improve. In the future the Directors intend to consult with the Bylaws Panel and GRC whenever decisive, expedient actions are required in order to provide communication and transparency to the extent that is appropriate based upon the Co-op’s principles and legal requirements.

The Member-Owner time investment program remains our foundation.

Additionally, the Board is strongly committed to our Membership Program and strongly supportive of MO time investment. We consider time investment as one of the foundational principles of Honest Weight Food Cooperative. Let us be clear: There is absolutely no desire on the part of the Board to change the Membership Program despite anything you may have heard. It is not happening; please do your part to let that malicious rumor fade to oblivion.

Honest Slate is a platform for HWFC Membership, Staff, Management, and Governance: promoting transparency, reporting news without bias, and sustaining community. Statement of Purpose: for articles & contributions:

• Preferred maximum length is 800 words.

• Material is published at the discretion of the Honest Slate team.

• Only signed work is accepted. Items are edited for length, grammar, & style.

• We may consider unsolicited material but encourage submitting ideas first.

• Letters to the Editor do not require preapproval.

Honest Slate articles are for informational purposes and are not intended to diagnose or treat disease. Opinions expressed in Honest Slate do not necessarily represent the views or policies of Honest Slate or Honest Weight Food Co-op.

All contents ©2024 Honest Weight Food Coop; no material appearing in Honest Slate may be reproduced in any form without the express written consent of HWFC.

Honest Slate May 2024 9

COMMITTEE CORNER

This column provides a summary of preliminary committee reports submitted to the Board of Directors (BOD) for its May 7, 2024, meeting. See Board Meeting packet for details. Full Board-approved committee reports are posted on HWFC’s website.

by Stephanie Conde

Anti-Racism Committee (ARC)

· 42 people completed Under Our Skin survey. Many indicated interest in furthering understanding about ending racism; formulating email to them about book club called White Affinity Group and about joining ARC.

Governance Review Council (GRC)

· Discussed GRC’s potential responsibilities around staff comments about personnel. Bylaws note: GRC’s purpose is to “promote good governance, which...means encouraging robust democratic cooperative processes and structures to facilitate fair and open decision-making at all levels of HWFC.”

Discussed options set out in Bylaws and Employee Manual; will gather more info to determine whether governance is implicated.

Membership Committee (MC)

Visitor Cathy shared idea about regular Open Mic/Tea and Talk for Members to gather, chat and build community.

· Discussed hosting activities including opening Ice Cream Social, Fall Festival, BBQ, etc., all to build community, bring in new members.

Reviewed Yevette’s duties; discussed supporting Sharon as interim Member Manager.

· Need more orientation facilitators. Member drives in June and October necessitate more orientations.

Something is in place for staff orientations. May revisit offering shorter in-person orientations supplemented by additional info in various formats—written, videos, tours, etc.

· Need people at Regular Membership Meetings (RMMs) to help with check-ins, voting. Discussed Household Membership Survey follow-up, including Survey Monkey and demographic info. Opted not to ask for names or Member numbers, but will offer 1 hour for MOs investing time (info will not be public). BOD–approved Style Guide Changes (to be incorporated into MO Manual); offering an hour time investment for survey respondents.

Scholarship Fund follow-up: Member shared idea of offering another option for buying membership interest over time—interested parties could use half discount and second half would be collected and put toward payment of $100 ownership interest. Questioned whether current system/software could process this.

· Exploring possibility of PDF version of Membership Brochure to aid MC review.

Bylaws Panel (BLP)

BLP member attended MC meeting to coordinate scheduling MO Open Mic to give MOs a chance to interact and talk with each other.

· Reviewed Bylaws draft prepared by Robin. Published Bylaws with all 2023 edits. Developed language to GRC to ensure BOD adheres to Bylaws when making decisions during work sessions. Discussed having corner of Honest Slate to inform membership of importance of bylaws and highlight a particular section each month. Language was sent to be published in May’s Honest Slate. Requested that BOD approve offer for BLP to provide all BOD members, including new appointees, a review of Bylaws.

Elections & Nominations Committee (ENC)

Communicated timeline/expectations for voting language deadlines (as discussed by BOD Mar. 19 and subsequently summarized by Board Administrator to ENC co-chairs). Saved timelines in Google Drive.

· Informed of Yevette’s resignation and appointment of Sharon Lastique, Membership Admin, as interim Membership contact.

Reviewed election task list for April RMM to plan for upcoming activities, ensuring adequate coverage for all actions. Reviewed draft Food and Product Manual ballot and BOD election ballot.

Continued discussing remote meeting vote counting procedures needing completion or confirmation for April RMM considering Yevette will not be there to support process. Karen and Yevette previously worked together; Karen simplified vote count processing instructions. As long as Excel document containing data on attendance and voting eligibility (provided by Membership Manager after meeting) is sorted for those in attendance and access to document is provided to ENC by 4pm Monday, Apr. 29, all will be well.

Honest Arts Committee (HAC)

· Reception for Kurdistan show, featuring photos of Diana Morales Manley and Carl Strock, was well attended. Will ask Marketing for signage advising shoppers of gallery location.

Agreed meeting with operations, facilities, and marketing managers about HWFC vestibule was informative and a useful start to further collaboration.

Discussed display hanging system recently installed at East Greenbush library, which holds frames upright without lean in HWFC’s current hanging system. Looking into cost and other areas of store to install this system. Plan to collaborate with Marketing to install this system on wall panel above energy bars.

Next two shows: Rising Hope with Education, depicting work of Jajji’s Kids in Uganda, and then photos of trip through Copper Canyon area of Mexico. Would be happy to host reprise of local art guild’s Poetic License show.

A Member is working with third graders and local charter school art teacher to develop bird-safe window designs. Open house is evening of June 11.

· Offered November time frame for show depicting photos from Schenectady Photography Society members.

Nutrition and Education Committee (NEC)

· Revisited Food and Product Manual updates (FPM); provided two informational sessions to answer questions.

· Continuing research to deepen understanding of micro and nano plastics.

Received MO inquiry regarding reports suggesting that Fermentation Produced Chymosin (FPC), microbial rennet, may contain GMOs.

· Welcomed new NEC member Jenn.

Personnel Committee (PC)

Continued discussion of committee’s standard operating procedure (SOP).

· Discussed swapping an existing holiday for Juneteenth.

· Requested BOD remove and replace PC member due to absence at last four consecutive meetings and attendance at only one fourth of PC meetings in last 12 months, noting similar circumstances as those prescribed for removal of BOD members in 415.1.

C o - o p p o r t u n i t i e s:

mEMBER-oWNER Announcements

by Sharon Lastique, Interim Membership Manager (MM)

May we be inspired to turn over a new leaf and soar to new heights...

Spring has sprung! The days are getting longer, the sun is shining brighter. Spring is often known as the beginning of bird nesting season. With this comes a lot of preparation. Birds are busy building nests, arriving after a long journey back from wintering grounds, or finding a mate. May we be inspired to turn over a new leaf and soar to new heights like our avian friends.

Thanks so much to all the MOs who were part of April’s Regular Membership Meeting check-in crew and voting table team. Thanks to all the MOs who participated in the RMM as well, and all the presenters for the topics. We are excited to welcome 2 new Board members, Yevette Buddeau and Joseph Casan, and welcome our returning Board members as well.

Over the past several years a small group has been working on an approach to create a workplace/community that supports each of us in reaching our full potential, using the tools of Nonviolent Communication (NVC), created by Marshall Rosenberg, and concepts from the Better World Handbook as the foundations for change. They integrate well with HWFC’s mission and the Employee Manual. Change begins with a commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment that fosters open and honest avenues of communication between all participants in the HWFC community.

NVC is a practice designed to improve communication, increase empathy, and enrich the lives of both the individual and the people around us. It requires us to listen with the express intent of understanding what the other person has to say, be aware of our needs, and communicate our needs in a way that others can understand so they can respond to them. It requires a lot of practice, since we are changing our communication patterns, but the basics can be learned relatively quickly.

Interested in joining HWFC’s team as an Employee? Check out our Employment Page

“Peace requires something far more difficult than revenge or merely turning the other cheek; it requires empathizing with the fears and unmet needs that provide the impetus for people to attack each other. Being aware of these feelings and needs, people lose their desire to attack back because they can see the human ignorance leading to these attacks; instead, their goal becomes providing the empathic connection and education that will enable them to transcend their violence and engage in cooperative relationships.”

―Marshall B. Rosenberg

Our next NVC meeting is on May 23 at 6:30pm in the Community Room. To learn more about this approach please contact Sharon Lastique at MemberServices@honestweight.coop

committee corner

continued from page 9

Environment Committee (EC)

· Working with Education and Outreach Coordinator to restart Zero Waste presentations/discussions in June with screening of “We Are all Plastic People Now,” about how plastics and micro and nano plastics are affecting human health (and environment).

Continuing Plastics Assessment including research and data collection to identify current use of plastics packaging at HWFC.

· Worked with Education and Outreach Coordinator during Earth month to collect computers for Elfun Computer Rehab, Schenectady-based nonprofit where retired GE employees accept older computers, rehab them, and donate to schools and nonprofits. We collected 10 laptops, 10 towers, and connecting equipment plus items from HWFC IT department.

Put meetings about Sustainability Manual on hold as 2 members are currently unable to meet. Co-chairs of Environment Commit-

Watch for our next Staff and Member-Owner Dinner and Dialogue date. This series, led by MO Ellen Cosgrove, focuses discussion on what community means to us and how we can strengthen our unique Honest Weight community. Spaces are limited to create an intimate atmosphere, and we aim to ensure all who are interested are given an opportunity to join us! This particular event is limited to MOs (those who are currently actively investing time at the Co-op) and staff only; details will be sent to MOs and staff.

Want to get in on the action? Ready to start investing time at the Co-op? Check out our Member-Owner Opportunities page at https://www.honestweight.coop/ page/member-owner-needs-and-opportunities-101.html or reach out to Sharon at MemberServices@honestweight.coop

tee met twice in April to discuss next steps— developing definitional clarity of key terms and clarifying how benchmarks and aspirational goals are determined and assessed.

· During first 3 months of 2024, electric utility costs for store were 7.2% lower while usage was 2% higher than same months in 2023 for HWFC store.

HWFC Coffeehouse Open Mic Mon., May 20, 6:30–8:30pm

HWFC’s café is filled with song, music, and readings every 3rd Monday! Coffeehouse Open Mic Night is open and free to Co-op Members and the general public alike.

Join us for an evening with local performers and artists in HWFC’s café. Performer sign-in starts at 6pm. All family-friendly performances are welcome!