Co-op News | February 2016

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 • Feb. 2016

New Year, New Look www.northcoast.coop gets an upgrade p.6-8

CO-OP NEWS Issue 86 | February 2016 www.northcoast.coop co-opnews@northcoast.coop EDITOR Melanie Bettenhausen Marketing & Membership Director (707) 502-3555 ext. 132 melanieb@northcoast.coop

Thank you for your generous donations!

GRAPHICS & COORDINATION Zev Smith-Danford Graphic Design Coordinator (707) 502-3555 ext. 120 zevsmithdanford@northcoast.coop Alenya Felts Marketing & Graphics Assistant (707) 502-3555 ext. 129 alenyafelts@northcoast.coop

Arcata cashiers who raised the largest amount in donations (Pictured Left to Right) Emily Rood, Kimmy Misiasz, and Janet Prentiss, with Food for People Executive Director Anne Holcomb.

Julia Griffin Marketing & Graphics Assistant juliagriffin@northcoast.coop ARCATA LOCATION 811 I St., Arcata • (707) 822-5947 Open daily: 6 am to 9 pm Kevin Waters, Store Manager kevinwaters@nor thcoast.coop EUREKA LOCATION 25 4th St., Eureka • (707) 443-6027 Open Daily: 6 am to 9 pm Toby Massey, Store Manager tobymassey@nor thcoast.coop

Eureka cashiers who raised the largest amount in donations (Pictured Left to Right) Joel Grosh and Ree Stevens with Food for People Fund Development Director Carly Robbins and Executive Director Anne Holcomb.

COOPERATIVE OFFICES 811 I St., Arcata ACTING INTERIM GENERAL MANAGER Ron Sharp (707) 502-3555 ext. 124 ronsharp@nor thcoast.coop MEMBERSHIP COORDINATOR Bella Waters (707) 502-3555 ext. 135 bellawaters@nor thcoast.coop HUMAN RESOURCES Lisa Landry (707) 826-8670 ext. 127 lisalandr y@nor thcoast.coop

Together we raised

$27,173 for Food For People

ACCOUNTING Kelli Costa (707) 502-3555 ext. 138 kcosta@nor thcoast.coop BOARD OF DIRECTORS Jeremy Cotton, Dave Feral, Colin Fiske, Leah Stamper, Cheri Strong board@northcoast.coop

The Food Bank for Humboldt County

THE COOPERATIVE PRINCIPLES: Voluntary & Open Membership Democratic Member Control Member Economic Participation Autonomy & Independence Education, Training & Information Cooperation Among Cooperatives Concern for Community

INSIDE

2 Your Interim General Manager 6 Member Survey

2 Brenda Harper Retires

7 Member Giveaway

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.

3 Board Meeting Recap

8 Local Produce Recipe

3 Letters to the Editor

9 Food Summit 2016

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Letters must include your name, address, member #, and telephone #. 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. Email your letters to co-opnews@northcoast.coop or send them to: Co-op News, 811 I Street, Arcata, CA 95521.

Deadline for letters is the 10th of each month.

4 Board News

10 Cook & Save

5 CCF Check Ceremony

11 Community Partners

6 New Website

11 Reference Guide

| CO-OP NEWS |

Getting to Know Your Interim General Manager

Ron Sharp Interim General Manager

H

ello Member-owners! Many of you know me but for those of you that do not, I started my career at the Co-op in 1979. The position I was hired for was called a substitute, the basic entry level job at the time. Over the years I have taken on many roles that have given me a good understanding of many of the jobs throughout our organization and the value of all

who work here. Working as the produce department head and merchandising manager for over a decade each afforded me a deep understanding of the importance of local products and the many growers and vendors that provide them. They are a part of the remarkable fabric that has made the Co-op such an integral part of our community.

One of the many roles I have filled during my tenure at the Co-op was that of Project Manager for the new Eureka store build. I oversaw that project, which included working with the design team, determining the equipment needs for the store and working with department heads to fill shelves with product. I also served as Operations Manager during the time Patrick Cleary was Interim General Manager, and am familiar with the overall operations of the Co-op. I have also served as the promotions liaison and the designated representative to the National Co+op Grocers, a business services cooperative for retail food co-ops.

The Co-op represents many diversified things to our member-owners. First and foremost it is a place to get the highest quality and most nutritious food and to ensure access to good organic food at basic

Brenda Harper Retires

M

any of you know Brenda Harper as the “Co-op lady”. She spent many years in local classrooms introducing fruits and vegetables to thousands of area kids through the Humboldt County Office of Education’s Harvest of the Month program (as many as 87 classrooms per month!). Brenda has been somewhat of a superstar for those kids who see Brenda while shopping at the Co-op with parents, or out at community events. Many a child has been heard say, “Mom, there’s the Coop lady who came to my classroom.”

Visiting classrooms is not the only thing Brenda has done over the years.

When she first started at the Co-op in august 2003, her title was Consumer Education and Demo Coordinator--she was the person coordinating Taste of the Holidays (a benefit for Sunrise Rotary in Arcata), Wine, Cheese & Chocolate (a benefit for Big Brothers & Big Sisters), and Thrill of the Grill (a benefit for Food for People).

Brenda was also instrumental in imagining our beautiful instructional kitchen in Eureka. At its peak under Brenda’s supervision, the Demo Program saw two Demo Clerks in each store providing in-store tastings 2-3 times a week. With a nutrition degree, Brenda was able to offer nutritional counseling, which aided her work in a salad bar pilot program that led Jacoby Creek Elementary School to providing a daily salad bar for their students.

Over the years, Brenda’s job description has changed repeatedly, and each time she has adapted to the demands of the job.

Several years ago, Brenda was asked to take on a stronger leadership role in coordinating the Co-op’s annual Pumpkin Patch event. She worked to streamline systems, track costs and update communication pathways with both schools and

“ We are all involved in the art of weaving the

many diverse needs and beliefs of our many member-owners into a cohesive experience that can bring the most satisfaction to the greatest number of our member-owners.

“

prices. To some it represents a place to get the best education on food and on wellness; to others it is a place to learn how to prepare and to cook dishes and meals or to preserve foods. Others see it as a place to advocate for changes in our food and in our food systems through our purchasing patterns, to promote environmental responsibility, or to support organic foods and farmers. Some member-owners view us as vibrant players in the world of food co-ops; an alternative model to normal grocery retailers. And others view the Co-op as a leader developing our local food shed as well as a leader in the community, investing in significant opportunities that serve our member-owners and ensure a viable co-op for our future.

In refining my leadership skills through-

out my time at the Co-op, I am deeply grateful for the opportunities to learn from the general managers who have come before me. We have a talented and creative workforce. Many managers, department heads and other staff members have deep expertise. We are all involved in the art of weaving the many diverse needs and beliefs of our many member-owners into a cohesive experience that can bring the most satisfaction to the greatest number of our member-owners. Keeping all the wideranging needs and desires in a balanced and dynamic harmony while serving our member-owners to the best of our abilities is our intention. With this in view I look forward to successfully leading the Co-op in conjunction with our staff, our board and our membership.

By Melanie Bettenhausen, Marketing & Membership Director staff. Most recently, Brenda was tasked with analyzing the Co-op’s waste management practices, offer suggestions for areas of improvement and to track and enter sustainability data. Brenda’s enthusiasm for this project made her an instrumental player in the National Co+op Grocers' launch of their Co+efficient data tracking program for co-ops. Brenda’s work on the Co-op’s sustainability efforts has built a foundation on which goals can be set and progress measured.

In addition to her regular duties of researching various food issues, providing information to staff, and writing articles for the Co-op News, Brenda went above and beyond by coordinating volunteers for Coastal Cleanup Day (8 years!) and generally making herself available for whatever event or task was needed.

While you may not see Brenda’s smiling face and informative articles on the pages of the Co-op News anymore, you will see the lasting results of Brenda’s work in a myriad of ways at the Co-op.

We are fortunate to have had Brenda’s service these many years and look forward to what she does next for our community.

Thank you, Brenda!

www.northcoast.coop

2

| BOARD NEWS |

January Board Meeting Recap

Dave Feral Board President

T

he January meeting was attended by a warm group of about 20 members.

During introductions, members were asked to share briefly why they shop at the Coop. There was a wide array of reasons folks selected to shop at the Co-op, from the wide variety of produce to the fact that it is run as a cooperative business.

Former director Fred Moore shared his concerns for the Co-op, wanting the board and staff to be aware of fears concerning external competition, spiraling health care costs, and the upcoming union contract negotiations.

Board President Dave provided a brief explanation of how the two board vacancies will be filled, noting a special election would be expensive and the process the Board decided on will be open, transparent and inclusive. The process and desired Board member qualities and characteristics will be published in the February Co-op News (see p. 4) A member inquired as to why the candidates who received the third and fourth place votes weren’t appointed. Directors Dave and Colin noted that the Board discussed that and agreed that it didn’t feel like the best route, as it would be difficult to predict who would have won if Colin and Leah weren’t in the election and the Board was not comfortable giving members the candidates who were not picked.

Members can apply with a letter of interest for the vacant seats (see p. 4). Terms for those seats are up in October 2016.

During the Member Comment period

the board opened the floor to members, so they could brainstorm a list of qualities that they desire in a Board Member (see p.4).

Two committee chair positions were filled: Leah Stamper as Nominating Committee Chair, and Jeremy Cotton as Treasurer and Finance Committee Chair, via an email vote as a form of written consent. All directors signed the paper copy of the action. Director Colin explained that the action was done outside of a meeting, which is allowed in the bylaws, due to the unexpected resignation of two directors and the remaining directors did not feel it was responsible to leave those positions open.

Policies & Procedures Committee Chair Colin reviewed the December meeting and recommended a motion that the board replace its current “Code of Ethics and Requirements and Expectations for Potential Candidates” document with a packet that newly elected board or appointed members must read and sign stating they will follow North Coast Co-op’s bylaws, the State of California Consumer Cooperative Legal Code as well as assume the fiduciary responsibilities of a board member. The motion was unanimously approved.

Co-op member Roger reviewed the

Member Action Committee’s December and January meetings. Roger explained that the MAC discussed the competitive advantage of evaluating our senior discount, the possibility of developing a low income membership program, bulk pricing concerns and the interest in developing a member volunteer program.

In his January report to the board, Interim General Manager Ron Sharp shared with the group the strength of having a warehouse that allows the Co-op to “ forward buy,” which allows the Co-op to offer an additional 100 items on sale along with the original 100 that are part of the Co+op Basics program. Ron also explained that the new security at the Arcata store has been well received by both members and staff, especially those who have to close the store late at night.

As the meeting came to a close several members took time to point out that this was the first meeting they felt they were a part of the process, and they truly felt the board was working with them. President Dave ended the meeting by inviting managers, staff and members to participate in the March 20 Board Retreat (see p. 4).

Letters to the Editor Board Shakeup

Greetings, I am writing in regards to Dave Feral's letter in the Co-op news. I see the sudden resignation of our General Manager and two board members as a major and significant event in our member owned organization. One does not have to read between the lines to see that there has been a profound difference of opinion among our directors.

One person resigning can be taken a number of different ways: their subpar performance, or an inability to work well within the board. But two other board members resigning at the same time belies a deeper philosophical divide.

These people represent us, have worked well, diligently and with sincerity. I want to know what happened. I feel your members are owed a deeper explanation than the brief announcement given.

Policy is being decided here for all of us, we deserve to know the issues, and why they are so profound that these three people have chosen to resign rather than condone the future course.

The announcement came across as condescendingly trite, and the photo of Dave's big grin did not help the impression. Transparency, please.

Sincerely, Christopher Boyle Member 21965 3

CO-OP NEWS • FEBRUARY 2016

Co-op Leadership

Dear Editor, I am writing to express support for the changes in direction the Co-op has taken in recent months, as regards its leadership. Having attended a number of Co-op Board meetings last fall, it had become apparent to me (and apparently to many other longtime members who spoke at these meetings) that the Co-op had a serious problem. This problem arose from a General Manager whose behavior appeared to evidence a belief that the Board operated to serve her, rather than her serving the Board, and who appeared to not understand the fundamental centrality of cooperative and democratic values to our organization and its membership.

The recent election of Colin Fiske, Leah Stamper, Cheri Strong and Jeremy Cotton, and the return to the Board of Dave Feral, appears to be the voice of the Co-op’s membership ratifying this sense the Co-op has been adrift recently, and hungering for a change in direction. I wish the new Board well and support the return to the historic values and responsiveness that made our Co-op uniquely great.

Neal Latt Member 11794

Board Meetings

Some members asked me to write about the Co-op’s Board of Directors and board meetings; and a lot of Co-op folks have been asking about both. I’m a regular at the board meetings and in the store; and I was involved in early Co-op development since 1977.

Recently people have heard about abrupt board and manager changes. Two board members left, with little explanation; and the General Manager left. This coincided with the election that had the largest member turn-out in our modern history and shifted the board composition.

It is my understanding that the current board and the General Manager parted ways with an understanding there was not going to be hassling over the parting.

As for the present board, it is apparent they are very dedicated to and serious about the success of the Co-op and the co-operative process. At the January board meeting, board members were very enthusiastic and inviting and welcoming to the membership to the likes many of us have not seen or experienced in a long time. The meeting was well attended. The tone set by this board is a great opportunity for our Co-op to make the most of our co-operative strengths and benefits and successes.

Roger Member 1204

Submit a Letter to the Editor We welcome letters to the editor. Letters must include your name, address, member #, and telephone #. Space is limited; please be concise (preferably 250 words or less). We regret that we may not be able to publish all letters due to limited space. Email your letters to coopnews@northcoast.coop or send them to: Co-op News, 811 I Street, Arcata, CA 95521. Letters must be received by the 10th of the month.

| BOARD NEWS |

Forward Together Dave Feral Board President

O

ver the past couple of months, the North Coast Co-op has been adapting to change. In December the Board approved a one year agreement to employ Ron Sharp as the Interim General Manager. Ron’s 36 years of experience have prepared him well, and the Board has already been hearing from staff that this was the best choice.

The Board is confident in Ron’s leadership as we approach the next union negotiations and the opening of the new Eureka Natural Foods store in McKinleyville this year. With Ron serving as Interim General Manager, the Board will be able to take the time for a careful and thoughtful search for the next General Manager. Meanwhile, staff and board will be able to do what we do best: provide the best quality food and service to our community, while continuing our cooperative mission.

Two Board Vacancies, Help Wanted!

The North Coast Co-op Board of Directors is seeking to fill two director vacancies

by March 3. In December, Jessica Unmack and Steve Suttel chose to resign their positions on the board. The five remaining board members were taken by surprise by these actions. We acknowledge the legitimate interest many members may have in what prompted the resignations, but unfortunately the current Board cannot speak on behalf of Jessica or Steve to explain their personal decisions. What we can do, and what we intend to do, is to fill the newly vacant board seats as efficiently and transparently as possible, and in a way which reflects our values and approach to Co-op

governance.

As stated in Bylaws Section 5.21, board “vacancies may be filled by a majority of the Directors then in office, whether or not less than a quorum, or by a sole remaining Director.” The current Board of Directors could have called up two of our friends and invited them to take those two vacant seats, but that path, while perhaps efficient, would not have been very transparent. So we chose another path.

First, the Board of Directors researched the requirements for the position as directed by our Bylaws: Requirements for Candidates Pursuant to Current bylaws • Must be a current member of the North Coast Co-op • Must be a California resident • Must not be a member of the Co-op management team Must not be a current Co-op employee (these open seats are not Employee Director seats).

Second, the Board of Directors compiled a list of the desired qualities meeting the minimum requirements: Desired Qualities in Candidates for Appointment to the North Coast Co-op Board • Commitment to the values and principles of the cooperative movement • Commitment to the North Coast Coop’s mission and to the Co-op’s success as an organization • Familiarity with the Co-op and its membership • Good communication skills • Good critical thinking skills • The ability to work through disagreement and to respect principled dissent • The ability to bring a unique or underrepresented perspective to the board • Respect for the democratic process

• Ability and willingness to devote the required time (at least 10 hours/ month) • Integrity, honesty, and high ethical standards • Reliability and dependability • Flexibility

to the Board by February 21. We encourage candidates to keep in mind the desired qualities and characteristics suggested by the Board and members as they write their letters. Letters will be reviewed by the Board, and if candidates meet the requirements they will be invited to take part in a live interview candidate forum during our regular Board meeting on March 3.

Please submit letters of interest by February 21 to: board@northcoast.coop or mail to North Coast Co-op, ATTN: Board of Directors, 811 I St, Arcata, CA 95521.

If you have questions about the process please contact Board Assistant Bella Waters and/or come to the February 4 Board meeting, where we will go over the process during our educational forum. The timeline for this process has been structured so that the newly appointed Directors will be included in the March 20 board retreat. See more information about the board retreat below.

Third, the Board of Directors solicited member input at the January 14 board meeting to generate the list of characteristics desired by the members present at that meeting: • Business management experience • Understanding of fiduciary responsibilities • Passion for community involvement/ development • Ability to balance diverse needs of the 15,000 + members • Understanding the grocery business – it’s a business • Consideration of employees With all of that in mind, we invite you to join the Board of Directors. All interested | BOARD NEWS | members must submit a letter of interest

Meet Your Board of Directors

Pictured Left to Right: Jeremy Cotton, Cheri Strong, Dave Feral, Leah Stamper, Colin Fiske Pictured Left to Right: Jeremy Cotton, Cheri Strong, Dave Feral, Leah Stamper, Colin Fiske

Jeremy Cotton I am an Employee Director and work as a Cheese Clerk at the Arcata store.

I am also an avid musician and perform with many community bands and organizations. My passion for fine, local food and local agriculture led me to seek employment with the Co-op and a position on the board. I hope to facilitate effective communication among the board, membership, and employees over this next year.

ing my degree, I worked for Redwood Community Action Agency doing stream restoration. Currently, I’m the owner and manager of Feral Family Farm, an organic farm located in the Mad River Valley near the city of Blue Lake. I’m also the director of Mad River Alliance, a community driven group organized to protect clean water and recover the ecological integrity of the Mad River. As a board member I look forward to working as a team member to serve the Community, the Environment, and the Employees in a fiscally responsible manner.

Dave Feral

Colin Fiske

Board Chair I came to Humboldt to work on my Master’s degree in biology at HSU in 1998. That same year I also became a member of the Co-op. After complet-

Secretary I lived in Chicago, Philadelphia, Southern California, Florida and Washington, DC, before my wife and I found our home here in Humboldt County four

Employee Director

years ago. I divide my time between working on various local causes and campaigns and husbanding my land, resources and wife. I am excited to work closely with fellow Co-op members and employees to increase member participation and address other important topics.

Cheri Strong Vice Chair & Employee Director I’m a long term Co-op employee. This year I’d like to get a more global perspective on how to slow environmental degradation and the ebbing fortunes of the working and underclasses. In the coming year I’m looking forward to helping grow a more inclusive community and seeing the Co-op become more of a participatory democracy. I’d also like to get to where we focus less on products from big food producers and shift towards giving local businesses more support.

Member- Owners Invited to Participate in Board Retreat Join the Co-op’s Board of Directors on Sunday, March 20 for a dynamic Board Retreat.

The day will start at the Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center around 9am with Glenda Hesseltine, a Tai Chi teacher, motivational speaker for wellness and counseling psychologist.

Glenda has more than 30 years’ experience working with groups “moving together in

Leah Stamper

Board Member I was born and raised in Humboldt County. I work as a nurse and spend much of my free time diving in the waters off the North Coast. I also enjoy trying to keep my bees happy and my ducks out of trouble. In the coming year I am looking forward to connecting with Co-op members and employees, as well as fostering a community of cooperation and participation.

Note: Two seats are currently vacant.

See page 4 for more on how the Board plans to fill those vacancies.

unison and harmony” and the morning will Fernando Paz and Kelly Boehms, on board focus on bringing the group together. vision to andParticipate committee forming.

MemberOwners Invited in BoardFernando Retreat Join the Co-op’s Board of Directors on son and harmony” and the morning will facilitators, Fernando Paz and Kelly Member-owners and Co-op staff are encourPaz’s expertise is diversity, inclusivity, and Sunday, March 20 for a dynamic Board focus on bringing the group together.

Boehms, on board vision and commitTo make your reservation, contact The day will start at the Humboldt Member-owners and Co-op staff are tee forming. Fernando Paz’s expertise is Membership Coordinator Bella Waters aged to participate in Retreat. the morning session, board development working with LatinoNet Bay Aquatic Center around 9am with encouraged to participate in the morn- diversity, inclusivity, and board developby phone (707) 382-3109 or Glenda Hesseltine, a Tai Chi teacher, ing session, space is limited and reserva- ment working with LatinoNet and other email membership@northcoast.coop motivational speaker are for wellness and tions are required. boards.

Kelly BoehmsKelly is a past Co-op space is limited and reservations required. and other boards.

Boehms isMarcha13. past by counseling psychologist. Glenda has Following a break for lunch, member- board member, employee, and current more than 30 years’ experience work- owners are invited to observe the Board facilitator for True North Organizing Following a break for lunch, member-owners ing with groups “moving together in uni- of Directors as Co-op they work with twoboard local Network.member, employee, and curare invited to observe3 the Board of Direc- rent facilitator for True North Organizing tors as they work with two local facilitators, Network.

CO-OP NEWS • JANUARY 2016

To make your reservation, contact Membership Coordinator Bella Waters by phone (707) 382-3109 or email membership@northcoast.coop by March 13.

www.northcoast.coop

4

| COOPERATIVE COMMUNITY |

CCF Check Ceremony 2016 T

he North Coast Co-op’s Cooperative Community Fund (CCF) awarded $18,900 to twenty-one community nonprofits at its January 14th CCF check ceremony in the Co-op’s Community Kitchen in Eureka. The following checks were awarded for: • Arcata House Partnership-- $1,370 for Food Security for Emergency Shelter Program Clients • Coastal Grove Charter School Parent Organization--$750 for Third Grade Farm Fieldtrip Intensive • Community Alliance with Family Farmers--$1,000 for Farm fieldtrip opportunities re-envisioned • DreamQuest-- $850 for Garden to Teen Project • Food for People--$2,500 for Reducing Waste and Increasing Food Security • Fortuna Adventist Community Services--$750 for Fortuna Community Garden Project

• Girl Scouts of Northern California -$500 for Global Overnight Congress for Girl Scouts • Healy Senior Center--$2,000 for Senior Congregate Meal Program • Humboldt Community Access and Resource Center--$750 for Culinary Arts Workshop • Humboldt County 4-H Positive Youth Development Program--$730 for Northcoast Youth Summit 2016 • Humboldt Educare --$800 for Healthy Cooking Program • Humboldt Plan It Green -- $850 for Transition Humboldt • Humboldt Senior Resource Center -$1,000 for Harvesting Senior Health • LatinoNet--$750 for Festejando Nuestra Salud/Celebrating Our Health

• Mad River Montessori -- $500 for Growing Healthy Bodies by Learning to Grow Healthy Food • Northcoast Preparatory & Performing Arts Academy -- $500 for Garden to Table and Back: “The Full Circle” • Northern California Indian Development Council, Inc. -- $1,000 for Northwest Intertribal Gathering and Elders Dinner • Open Door Community Health Center--$500 for Arcata Food Project • Redwood Coast Montessori -- $500 for School Garden Program • Southern Humboldt Community Park -- $800 for Park to Plate • The Forgotten Initiative, Humboldt Chapter -- $500 for Healthy Food for Foster-Care Families

Representatives from the 2015 CCF grant recipients filled up the Eureka Co-op Community Kitchen in January 2016.

For more than 20 years, Co-op employees, members, and shoppers have given donations to the Cooperative Community Fund. The fund’s appreciation/earnings are gifted to local non-profit organizations as grant awards that meet the objectives of its mission statement: “The Cooperative Community Fund is a permanent endowment established and directed by members of the North Coast Cooperative, which awards grants to support projects and the work of community organizations in Humboldt County.

Through collaborative grant making the CCF seeks to strengthen the community by emphasizing projects and activities that promote democratic cooperative principles, community development and food security.”

Donations to CCF are made at the register through the Community Round Up program. Shoppers can choose to round up their grocery bill total, or can donate any amount they choose. The ten cent charge for paper bags at the Co-op goes directly to CCF. In the last year, more than $7,200 has been donated!

“The Co-op is very pleased to see the continuing support of local organizations and their ongoing and new projects through donations made by CCF.” said Ron Sharp, Co-op Interim-General Manager. “The North Coast Co-op and its members are truly invested in the long term success and enrichment of our community. Since its inception, CCF has awarded nearly $500,000 to local organizations.”

Guidelines to apply for funds are available each September. The next opportunity to apply is fall of 2016. Please see http:// northcoast.coop/good_stuff_we_do/cooperative_community_fund/ for more information.

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To RSVPTo orRSVP for more To or RSVP for information To more RSVP or for information or more for more information information Lost Coast LostBrewery Coast Lost Lost Brewery Coast & Coast Coast Brewery &Central Coast Brewery &Central Credit Coast & Coast Union Central Credit Central Union Credit Credit Union Union email: contact@zerowastehumboldt.org email: contact@zerowastehumboldt.org email: email: contact@zerowastehumboldt.org contact@zerowastehumboldt.org Humboldt Humboldt TradersHumboldt and Traders Humboldt Stillman and Traders Traders Stillman Associates andand Associates Stillman Stillman Associates Associates

| NORTHCOAST.COOP |

New Website Launched!

W

e are excited about the new website we launched in December--one that we hope will meet your needs as a memberowner and shopper! It has lots of great new features like our Co-op Specials, Co-op News recipes, an event calendar and a blog. To give you an idea of our hopes and dreams for this new website, here is the vision statement we wrote before embarking on this endeavor: North Coast Co-op has a website that is welcoming, searchable and interactive. Customers have found us through web searches because of the work of our web developer.

Once on our website, customers immediately know that we sell local, organic and fair trade products, and that we have freshly prepared foods in our deli, bakery and coffee bar. In addition, they are aware that we are a member-owned co-op and they can own it too. Each piece of our content is sharable and our customers are sharing our content (using mobile devices) throughout their social networks. Customers find community through food and our Co-op on our website, which brings them into our stores to find food and community in our aisles. Through our website, our member-owners know we love them!

Since we are just getting started with this great new platform for sharing our offerings and community work with you, we hope that you will let us know how it goes when you are visiting our new website—a simple email to info@northcoast.coop will do. Enjoy!

By Brenda Harper, Consumer Education Coordinator & Jolie Harvey, Outreach Coordinator

Calendar of cooking classes, board meetings, and other Co-op events

View current Co-op Specials & Produce Specials

Take a Look!

Get familar with the new www.northcoast.coop right here in the Co-op News. The pop-out boxes to the left and mock website layout on the following pages (pp. 7 & 8) will help to find your way around the site and to learn some of our new and exicting features.

At the bottom of the homepage, find e-newsletter sign up, Co-op job listings, social media links, store locations, and a full website directory

Member Survey

25 gift card!

Win a $



Q: What could the Co-op do to make reading the Co-op News online a better experience?

Member Name: Member #:

Phone #:

DEADLINE TO ENTER: FEB. 29

Detach this entry form and 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@northcoast.coop with “Member Survey” in the subject line. Must be a member to enter. Co-op employees and their families are not eligible to win.

www.northcoast.coop

6

| WE  OUR MEMBERS | www.northcoast.coop/our_offerings/specials___savings/giveaways Everyone can shop, but we would love for you to join!

BECOME A MEMBER-OWNER

CONTACT US

ORDER FROM THE DELI

SPECIALS & SAVINGS

OUR OFFERINGS Store Departments Customer Service Meat, Poultry & Seafood Deli & Bakery Grocery Dairy, Cheese & Alternatives Bulk Wellness

Giveaways

Wine & Beer

Did you know that cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in our country? The good news is

Produce Home & Garden

Your Dietary Needs Gluten-Free

that by engaging in physical activity daily and making healthy food choices, it can often be prevented. February is American Heart Month, and in honor of it we are giving away an abundance of healthy heart foods!

One Co-op member will receive items to sustain them for breakfast, lunch, dinner and even snacks. Enter at Customer Service in either location for a chance to win.

GMO-Free

Specials & Savings

Enter at Customer Service in either store by Feb 29, 2016

Co-op Specials Discounts Coupons Organic Produce Specials Giveaways Co+op Basics

March 4, 2016

Gift Cards

Kid Friendly

Friday 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

March 4, 2016 Kids Cart Rules

Friday 5:30 - 7:30 p.m.

HSU College Creek Hall HSU College Creek Hall

Arcata, CA

Arcata, CA

2015-2016

2015-2016

WASTE SOLUTIONS ZEROZERO WASTE SOLUTIONS SERIES SERIES Legislative for Legislative SolutionsSolutions for

Californians Against Waste develops stateCalifornians Against Waste develops stateFeatured Speaker: for waste issues. Since wide policy solutions for waste California’s Zero Waste Challenge wide policy solutions Markissues.

Murray,Since Executive 1977 CAW has1977 been aCAW reliable source of inforhas been a reliableDirctor sourceof of infor- Against California mation, coalition-building and advocacy leaderFriday, March 4, 2016 mation, coalition-building and advocacy Friday, Marchship.

4, 2016 Waste leaderFeatured speaker Mark Murray, will discuss 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. ship. Featured speaker Mark Murray, will discuss 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. the core values in CAW’s legislative policies and his To RSVP or for more information theforcore in CAW’s policies and his HSU College Creek Great Hall recommendations localvalues Zero Waste Action legislative Plans. email: contact@zerowastehumboldt.org

California’s Zero Waste Challenge

HSU College Creek Great Hall

7

CO-OP NEWS • FEBRUARY 2016

recommendations for local Zero Waste Action Plans.

Featured Speaker:

Mark Murray, Executive Director of Featured Californians Speaker: Against Waste, is one of the environmental Mark community's lead advocatesDirector on wasteofprevention and recycling Murray, Executive Californians Against policies.

Waste, is one of the envi-

| LOCAL PRODUCE RECIPE | www.northcoast.coop/shop_your_values/local_recipes/napa_cabbage Everyone can shop, but we would love for you to join!

BECOME A MEMBER-OWNER

SHOP YOUR VALUES Co-op News Local Food Environmental Responsibility Riding the Bus

GMOs GMO Policy GMO Free Humboldt Avoiding GMOs

Cook & Save Recipes Tiny Graham Cracker Houses DIY Instant Oatmeal

Local Recipes Baked Sweet Onions Oven Roasted Beets Easy Bok Choy Napa Cabbage

About Co-ops Organics

CONTACT US

ORDER FROM THE DELI

SPECIALS & SAVINGS

Napa Cabbage and Toasted Nut Salad Featuring Napa cabbage from Willow Creek Farm Napa cabbage is a Chinese cabbage with an oblong head and tightly packed pale green to white crinkled leaves. Napa is mild and sweet, like a cross between cabbage, iceberg lettuce, and celery. A versatile cabbage, it can be eaten raw or cooked and is used in stir-fries and soups. Unlike the strong-flavored waxy leaves on round heads of cabbage, these are thin, crisp, and delicately mild.

Napa cabbage is incredibly low in calories and is packed with many antioxidant plant compounds that can reduce the risk of some chronic diseases. It has plenty of soluble and insoluble fiber that helps the digestive system. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, Bcomplex vitamins as well as vitamin K. It also contains the minerals calcium, potassium, phosphorous, manganese, iron and magnesium.

Topping ingredients (makes 6-8 servings) • 2 packages ramen noodles, broken in small pieces • 1 cup walnuts • ¼ cup sesame seeds • 2-3 Tablespoons olive oil Vinaigrette ingredients • ½ cup canola or olive oil • ¼ cup sesame oil • ½ cup maple syrup • 2/3 cup apple cider vinegar Salad ingredients • ¾ head Napa cabbage • ¼ head purple cabbage • 6-8 green onions • Salt to taste Directions 1. Make the topping first, to allow for a cool down period before you mix it in with the salad ingredients. Start by heating 2-3 Tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet. Add the noodles, nuts, and sesame seeds. Toast these in the oil until they are dark brown. Remove the ingredients from the skillet and set aside to cool.

2. Next, mix the vinaigrette by combining the canola (or olive) oil, sesame oil, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar. Set the dressing aside.

3. Slice the cabbages into thin strips and chop the green onions. Place the cabbage and green onions in a large bowl and toss.

4. Scatter topping ingredients on salad. Shake up the vinaigrette and add it to the salad. Toss until everything is well coated. Sprinkle with a dash of salt, if desired to suit your taste, and toss the salad again. Serve immediately.

go paperless Trade in your paper subscription for a digital version to reduce paper usage. Send your request to co-opnews@northcoast.coop with the subject line "Go Paperless."

Tell us what would help you go paperless on p. 6

www.northcoast.coop

8

| FOOD SUMMIT |

is passionate about good, healthful, and wholesome food and the domestic arts of household and homestead.

Economic Viability and Opportunity John LaBoyteaux also known as “Duff”, has been farming since 1980 and active on the Board of the Humboldt Farm Bureau for over 20 years, serving as their president from 20042006. His long history of involvement with food policy includes extensive work with organic certification and land use planning. On his farm he primarily focuses on crop vegetables, hay and a small orchard. More recently he has also been raising wheat.

In addition to key note speaker Anna Lappé (cofounder of Small Planet Institute and author of Diet for a Hot Planet, this all-day event includes food system panelists and breakout sessions with local food entrepreneurs and activists.

Here is a sampling of what to expect from the break-out sessions: Waste & Recycling Juliette Bohn is the principal of JBC, a sustainable project development consulting firm that helps businesses, individuals and local governments improve their environmental performance and achieve authentic, measurable results. Previously, Juliette led a 2013 U.S. EPA pilot project to learn how best to establish a municipal food waste diversion program in a variety of commercial settings. Her master’s thesis, Food Waste Diversion and Utilization in Humboldt County focused on strategies to convert food waste into useful products locally.

Juliette holds a M.S. degree in Environmental Systems from Humboldt State University.

Morgan King is the Sustainability & Waste Coordinator for Humboldt State University, where he oversees the recycling and waste reduction programs, advises students, and facilitates the infusion of sustainability into campus operations and academics. Morgan holds a Master of Social Science in Environment and Community from Humboldt State University and a B.A. in Biology from the University of California Santa Cruz. He is a certified Building Analyst and Building Envelope Professional and has worked

9

CO-OP NEWS • FEBRUARY 2016

as an energy auditor and trainer, sustainability curriculum developer, and Peace Corps Nepal volunteer.

Sustainable Agriculture Blake and Stephanie Alexandre and their five children have poured four generations of dairy know-how into their farms. Strong proponents of sustainable organic farm practices and nutritional education, environmental stewardship is key to their management strategy. The family operates four grass-based organic dairies in Humboldt and Del Norte Counties with 4,200 crossbred milk cows on 4,300 acres of irrigated pasture. Alexandre Kid’s Eggs, a successful pastured based organic egg business, adopts the sustainable practices that have made the dairy so productive. The entire family, along with a dedicated management team, is involved in day-to-day activities on the farm – each with different, bright passions for agriculture.

Melanie Cunningham has been farming in Humboldt County since arriving in 2005 after two years of traveling and farming in Hawaii, India, and Thailand. She started Shakefork Community Farm with her husband in 2008, growing 15 acres of small grains on leased ground in the Arcata Bottoms. In 2009 the farm moved to 85 acres nestled alongside the Van Duzen River in sunny Carlotta, where it continues to evolve today. Melanie manages Shakefork Community Farm’s six-acre vegetable garden, 100 member CSA, greenhouses, pastured poultry production, and the farm finances. She

Jacque and Amy Neukom have been running Neukom Family Farm (a small scale diversified organic farm) for 21 years. Starting from a small backyard garden, the Neukom's have grown to 15 acres through every land agreement possible. From a simple handshake agreement to complex leases they have managed to thrive.

Their latest evolution is the purchase of the 80acre homestead which has been the heart of the farm for 20 years.

Local Production, Processing & Distribution Rosa Dixon and Milia Lando together own Natural Decadence, a local bakery dedicated to baked goods that are made without gluten, eggs, dairy, or nuts. Popular from the get-go, they grew quickly and caught the attention of Whole Foods and a year later their products are now in natural grocers throughout California, Oregon, Washington, Nevada, Arizona, and Hawaii. Astute business people, Rosa and Milia know what it takes to make a small business successful in and out of Humboldt County.

Rhonda Wiedenbeck is the owner of Beck’s Bakery in Arcata, CA. House-milled local grains are included in all of the breads and pastries made at Beck’s Bakery. Rhonda works directly with North Coast grain farmers to help make locally grown wheat and rye more accessible to the Humboldt Bay region. Her goal is to create a vibrant local grain economy. She is passionate about real food. You can find Beck’s Bakery products in natural food stores in Eureka & Arcata and in many fine restaurants.

Other topics include: Agricultural Literacy and Food Education; Aquaculture & Fisheries; and Access to Healthy, Affordable and Culturally Appropriate Food. Snacks and lunch provided by the North Coast Co-op Bakery and Deli.

Please join us!

| COOK & SAVE |

COOK & SAVE Black Bean Toast Topper

By Brenda Harper, Consumer Education Coordinator & Jolie Harvey Outreach Coordinator

T

ransform your toast from a breakfast basic to an anytime snack or a quick weeknight dinner with all kinds of creative topping combinations.

There is a wide variety of bread available for toasting, from the everyday prepackaged sliced bread to specialty bread baked at the Co-op’s bakery or special gluten-free breads for those who avoid gluten. You can even slice baguettes and the large crusty-bread loaves to make your toast.

For toasting the bread you can use a pop-up toaster or toaster oven, or even a hot skillet with oil drizzled on the bread.

Toppings for toast can be as simple as nut butter or even casserole and veggie leftovers. Try this specially-made bean spread.

Ingredients (makes 12 slices) • • • • • • • • •

1 loaf of North Coast Bakery bread 6 ounces cheddar cheese, grated (about 1 ½ cups) or dairy alternative 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained 1 Tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, plus 12 fresh parsley sprigs 1 Tablespoon balsamic or apple cider vinegar 2 teaspoons olive oil 1 large clove garlic, minced 3 Tablespoons water, or as much as needed 12 cherry tomatoes, sliced

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 350°F. 2. Cut bread into ½-inch thick slices. Arrange on a baking sheet and place in oven for 10 minutes, or until golden.

3. Meanwhile, combine beans, parsley, vinegar, oil and garlic in blender or food processor and process into puree. If puree is too thick, add water one Tablespoon at a time to reach a consistency that is good for spreading. Cover and refrigerate.

4. Divide cheese among bread slices, pressing it firmly in place. Bake for 10 minutes longer, or until cheese is melted and toasts are crisp.

Remove from oven and set aside until room temperature.

5. Just before serving, generously spread bean mixture on toasts. Top each with tomato slice(s) and a sprig of parsley.

CO-OP SPECIALS Valid Feb. 2 thru Feb. 29

Field Day Black Beans every day! low prices

Napa Valley Organic Olive Oil

15 oz everyday low price

25.4 oz

$1.49

$9.99

The Co-op Has Investment Shares Available!

About Investing in the Co-op Why not consider investing in your local community and invest in the Co-op?

The North Coast Co-op offers its Fair Share members the opportunity to purchase preferred non-voting shares of stock, also known as class C shares. Ownership of these preferred shares entitles members to dividends declared by the Board of Directors.

Class C shares are limited to members of the Co-op, who are Fair Share members (owning $300 in B shares).

C shares are sold in $10 increments and are currently earning a 2.00% APR on whole C shares ($10 increments) with no fixed terms.

If you’re interested in investing in your Co-op, please contact our Membership Coordinator for more information: (707) 502-3555 ext. 135 bellawaters@northcoast.coop

www.northcoast.coop

10

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15th & Broadway ▼ 707-445-3283 ▼ Mon-Sat 8:30-6:00

Heart Shaped cakes are available in a variety of flavors, and many can be made with gluten-free flour and vegan ingredients!

For custom cakes, call (707) 826-2706 or visit www.northcoast.coop.

Please allow 72 hours for custom cakes.

Co-op News Reference Guide Board of Directors Activities

Co-op members are invited to attend board and committee meetings. Learn more about the board, and find meeting agendas and minutes at http://northcoast.coop/about_us/board/ .

Board of Directors Meetings Feb 4 • 6-8pm Co-op Community Kitchen, Arcata Mar 3 • 6-8pm Co-op Community Kitchen, Eureka Mar 20 Board Retreat, see p. 4 Apr 7 • 6-8pm Co-op Community Kitchen, Arcata Policies & Procedures Committee Meeting Feb 17 • 6-8pm Ten Pin Warehouse Conference Room, 793 K St, Arcata Member Action Committee Meeting Feb 10 • 6-8pm Co-op Community Kitchen, Eureka Nominating Committee Meeting To be Announced at http://northcoast.coop/about_ us/board/board_and_committee_meetings.php Finance Committee Meeting Feb 25 • 5:30-7:00pm Ten Pin Warehouse Conference Room, 793 K St, Arcata

Co-op Hosted Events

Eureka. $10 suggested donation. (See p. 5)

Feb 6 • Wine Sampling at the Co-op Community Kitchen in our Eureka store location. Meet and talk with our in-store wine expert while sampling six wines. Stop by anytime between 6-8pm, no reservations required and free of charge. Must be 21 years of age or older, ID required. Please call (707) 443-6027 x 102 for more information.

Feb 27 • Food Summit 2016, hosted by Humboldt Food Policy Council from 9am-3:30pm at the Kate Buchanan Room, HSU. Lunch provided by North Coast Co-op. Registration $10 (sliding scale available). Find more information and register by February 21 at www.foodsummit2016.org. (See p.9)

Mar 20 • Board Retreat from 9am-5pm at Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center. Co-op memberowners are invited to participate in the morning session and observe the afternoon session. Space is limited, so reservations must be made by March 13.

See p. 4

Co-op Sponsored Events Feb 7 Rez Abbasi Acoustic Quartet presented by the Redwood Jazz Alliance. Arcata Playhouse at 8pm. The fleet-fingered guitarist is noted for his “ethnic” fusions. More information at http:// redwoodjazzalliance.org/2015-16.html Feb 25 Clearing Up the Confusion About Plastics, hosted by Zero Waste Humboldt from 6pm-7:30pm at Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center,

Mar 4 • Legislative Solutions for California’s Zero Waste Challenge, hosted by Zero Waste Humboldt from 5:30-7:30pm at HSU’s College Creek Great Hall, Arcata. $10 suggested donation.

(See p. 7)

Deadlines Feb 21 Letters of interest to run for the Board of Directors due (see p. 4) Feb 21 Register for Food Summit 2016 (see p. 9) Feb 29 Member Surveys due (see p. 6) Feb 29 We Love Our Members Giveaway entries due (see p. 7) Mar 13 last day to RSVP for Board retreat (see p.4)