Vol. 25: Issue 08 • August 2014 The Co-operator The monthly newsletter of the East End Food Co-op • Pittsburgh, PA Healthy Kids Lunches: Packed Lunch Tips by Mandy Makinen of www.strongertogether.

Okay parents. We all know that back to Working under time constraints might take The truth is that lunch is, and has always commodity. For a kid who brings a healthy school is, although bittersweet for our some of the creativity out of presentation, been, an important social time for kids. lunch every day, those things help them children, pretty good for us. Our children but it doesn’t have to mean a boring or This is when jokes get told, bragging gets build an argument that you (parent) are the are again occupied in noble pursuits, they unbalanced lunch. We adopted a baseline done and where today’s hilarious sight gags meanest, most boring person alive. They get regular exercise, they have plenty of of this equation: 1 + 1 + 1 = 1. One fruit or are tomorrow’s doctor’s visits (raisins in may present you with the reusable baggie time with their friends and the echo of vegetable (i.e. carrots, banana, cucumber, the nose, anyone?). This is also when your used for whole wheat crackers as evidence. “I’m bored” vanishes from the halls of our apple), one protein (turkey, peanut butter, child is supposed to focus and eat their homes. Things are always good for a few ham, cheese), and one carbohydrate (bagel, whole lunch. For my part, it is disappointing to think that weeks - at least until a new boredom sets crackers, English muffin, tortillas) = one the money and time spent on the planning in. School lunch burnout. lunch. This divides lunch-building into Remembering to keep portions small and the and purchasing of healthy food could get predictable units, which makes it easy for eating process efficient (think bite-size fin- traded for less healthy food, on a whim. For those who regularly pack school lunch- my son to participate by choosing differ- ger foods) helps ensure that more food gets Though I suspect my son’s whole wheat es for an elementary school-aged child, you ent, changing components. This simple eaten. This is the way toddlers eat, but I find bagel or almonds rank low in lunch table may have run into a few common points structure effectively reduces a lot of the it works great at any age (I love a “snack trading values. of friction. Namely, boredom with content, negotiating and whining that can otherwise lunch” at the office myself). It doesn’t have arguments over what did and did not get accompany shopping for lunch items. One to look extremely coordinated to be a good But to alleviate the feeling that my child eaten that day, and issues revolving around of the best side effects of this lunch style lunch - a handful of nuts, a bag of snap peas, is going to be scarred by his health-fanatic trading for junk food. Let’s look over the is that it teaches my son about nutrition - some cheese cubes, grapes, whole wheat mom who never allowed him to have fun issues, one at a time. which types of food have what nutritional bagel half, all these things are easy to eat, foods, we’ve added “mystery” items to the value. Now my son knows that peanut but- and more important, can be safely eaten lunchbox - something fun that doesn’t Battling Boredom ter is a protein, not a vegetable. He knows while paying attention to at least three other continued on page 6 that a banana is not a significant source of things at once. I had always planned on being the mom complex carbohydrates but that a whole who would break out the cookie cutters wheat bagel is. Help Them Hedge Their Bets to make lunchtime sandwiches special, or who would creatively market sacks of Emphasize Efficiency Even though it isn’t officially carrot coins or a stand-up broccoli forest allowed at his school, my son to my child. But the reality is, that takes There was a time, I am sure, when all kids reports that kids still manage a time. Our family tries to put emphasis on would sit down to lunch at school with lot of lunch trading. This means dinner and having (mostly) home-cooked enthusiasm and dig in, focused on the task that packaged foods designed meals we can eat together at night, so with of chewing their food and getting refueled for kids’ lunchboxes in the form already limited time in the evenings, pack- for an afternoon of learning. I believe that of fruit snacks, energy bars, and ing elaborate bag lunches, by and large, has time was somewhere around the year 19- single servings of cookies, chips fallen by the wayside. oh…never? and cheese puffs become a hot

In ThIs Issue: Co-op Deals Flyers: July 30th – August 19th Co-op News 2-3 August 20th – September 2nd

MeMbers only: eleCtioN Updates 4-5 Be sure to use your 10% quarterly discount by September 30th! The next quarter goes from October 1st – December 31st. the Food YoU eat 6

boarD oF DIreCTors: staFF News 7 The next meeting will take place on Monday, August 18th at 7 PM.

CaFé MeNU 8 new MeMber orIenTaTIons: To register, call 412.242.3598 ext. 103 UpCoMiNg eveNts 8 or email [email protected]

East End Food Co-op • 7516 Meade St. Pittsburgh, PA 15208 • www.eastendfood.coop • 412.242.3598 • Open to Everyone, Every Day 8 AM – 9 PM

DO NOT DELAY NOT DO

DATED MATERIAL: DATED PERMIT NO. 1800 NO. PERMIT

PITTSBURGH, PA PITTSBURGH,

PAID

Pittsburgh, PA 15208 PA Pittsburgh,

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7516 Meade St. Meade 7516

NONPROFIT ORG. ORG. NONPROFIT East End Food Co-op Food End East CO-OP NEWS GM Report Board Corner by Justin Pizzella, EEFC General Manager by EEFC Board of Directors

First off, I hope that you are all having a always able to use that vote to support or This past June some of your Co-op’s model is structured around boards and great summer! In this month’s column I’d boycott products. But it’s your choice. board and staff had the opportunity to visit management teams rather than relying on like to touch on a few topics that are often We are confident that even if a political Madison, Wisconsin to attend the 58th a single individual. raised by members, either in comment cause prompts a boycott of one product Annual Consumer Manage- cards or other communications, as well as a or brand, there are still a number of items ment Association (CCMA) Conference. The cooperative governance workshops few other items of Co-op interest. that remain on our shelves worth ‘voting’ Co-operators from all over the country reframed some of the basics of our govern- for by individuals exercising their power gather together each year at CCMA to ance system in a way that tied in servant Parking as consumers. sharpen their skills, learn from each other’s leadership and growth. The sessions work, and plan to transform the future. focused on the four pillars: Democracy, Parking is by far our number one com- An easy way to help save the Co-op Workshops are led by a mix of industry Strategic Leadership, Teaming, and Account- plaint these days. The problem can be some money leaders, consultants who specialize in able Empowerment. Participants were able attributed to any number of factors: our , and some of the best think- to break down these subjects to think about significant growth over the last few years, Last year, about 1.1% of our total sales ers and doers in our movement. Some of how they were used at each level of their the success of the other businesses in The went to banks in the form of credit card the many areas your board focused on this co-op’s organization. Factory building, area residents parking in transaction fees. An easy way to help the year include member linkage, cooperative the lot, and others. The bottom line is that Co-op stay fiscally strong is to use cash governance, and servant leadership. The member linkage workshops involved regardless of the cause, there is insuffi- when you shop. If you still want to have interacting with participants to discuss cient parking. We have been working with the convenience of a credit card, you can The leadership workshops were a series each other’s successes and challenges in neighboring businesses to identify any purchase gift cards in any amount. The Co- of interactive sessions where participants reaching out to members. Member link- opportunities for additional parking and op doesn’t incur any transaction costs from got to work in small breakout groups to age can be thought of as many things; it we are close to securing enough additional the processing center when gift cards are sharpen their skills in cooperation, vision- involves fostering a sense of ownership spaces to alleviate some of the strain on used. These cards do not have an expiration ing, and directing. We spent time identify- among member-owners, encouraging our existing lot. Stay tuned for more infor- date, plus they’re environmentally friendly ing our individual leadership styles and member-owners to participate in the co- mation, as we will announce when we since they are manufactured from recycled how they work with other leadership styles. operative and its mission, communicating have an agreement in place. We appreciate PVC plastic. the co-op’s collective story, and listening your patience in the interim. Servant leadership was a topic of much and fostering a dialogue directly with Expansion discussion at CCMA. Servant leadership member-owners. The Co-op’s stance on political issues can be defined as a leadership philosophy We are still in the feasibility phase of in which power is shared and delegated, One session coupled participants in short It seems that every month or so, a political evaluating potential locations for the Co- leaders put the needs of others before their speed-dating style pairings to share the topic arises that elicits some discussion op’s expansion. The expansion may take own, and there’s a strong focus on develop- types of things they were working on in on our social media pages, in the store, or the form of a larger space for our existing ing others into stronger leaders. By its very their own co-ops. This session capital- at the board’s meetings. This discourse of store, and/or additional locations. The nature it is a leadership style that compli- ized on one of the most valuable things various viewpoints is a healthy component Co-op’s board of directors is ultimately ments the cooperative business model. available at the conference: the knowl- of any community and we respect member’s tasked with making all decisions regarding While this philosophy is by no means edge and experience of our peers. This individual stances. investment in an expansion. They have exhaustive, it covers a wide range of lead- connection and networking relates to one identified a checklist of items that they ership characteristics including: listening, of the overarching themes of the confer- In order to best serve our diverse customer require in order to adequately make this empathy, healing, awareness, persuasion, ence: Co-operative Principle 6 - Coop- base of both members and non-members, decision. Included on this list are a number conceptualization, foresight, stewardship, eration Among Cooperatives. we have focused on the one commonality of business assessments as well as a market commitment to the growth of people, and that is of the utmost concern to everyone: study. These studies will be completed by community building. While co-ops have been cooperating with clean food. We can’t often let that pursuit early fall. each other for many decades, we are only be influenced by politics, especially since The sessions prompted attendees to think relatively recently starting to cooperate in a our members have divided stances on most Another part of the feasibility phase is about the interconnectedness of each more comprehensively organized fashion. political issues. We strive to support fair looking for sites and talking with sev- of these characteristics and how we use Co-ops are now members of other co-ops trade, organics, cooperatively-produced eral communities and developers about these in our board/management work. We themselves, enabling them to share infor- products, and local providers, but all in all potential locations. During the course of had the chance to perform exercises that mation, skills, money, and even combine our biggest priority remains healthy foods. these discussions the local media may, helped us identify the characteristics we their buying power. In many cities, co-ops We feel that our primary responsibility to for any number of reasons, report on fall back on in stressful situations and are starting to work together across busi- our customers is to select products based the Co-op’s interest in a particular site. explore ways to draw on others when ness sectors in order to combine efforts to on our product policies. (Find them here: Please don’t confuse this hearsay with a the situation calls for them. The most accomplish their similar missions. They are www.eastendfood.coop/co-op/policies). firm commitment to any location. That insightful exercise grouped participants leveraging their shared values and princi- news will only come directly from the by their strengths and challenged them to ples to make the biggest possible impact in We encourage all consumers (our cus- Board and me, and we will communicate solve problems while identifying when their communities. tomers and others) to realize the power any definite developments through our other leadership styles were needed to fill they have in how they spend their money. social media, email, store signage, and gaps in their group’s skills. This is the Together, we will all work to create a better Your dollar is like a vote and you’re press releases. best demonstration of why our business future. Think globally, act locally!

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Page 2 East End Food Co-op August 2014 CO-OP NEWS

ENDS POLICY STATEMENT

East End Food Co-op exists to enhance physical and Members Speak Out! social health in our community. To these ends, we will create: A sustainable member-owned business Can we label our produce sprayed and unsprayed in regards to antibiotics? open to everyone An ethical and resilient food infrastructure Until we have a way of knowing outside of reaching out to every farm individually, A vibrant, dynamic community of happy, I’m afraid not. It is commonly used as a fungicide though, and sprayed during the healthy people flower stage of a plant, not when the food is in its eaten form. Thanks! A creative vision to transform the future -Evan, produce

STATEMENT OF COOPERATIVE IDENTITY Just a quick “atta-boy” (“atta-co-op”?): great book selection, just astonishingly rich. Thank you! Definition Great to hear when people notice! Happy reading! A cooperative is an autonomous association of -Karen, Book Buyer persons united voluntarily to meet their common economic, social, and cultural needs and aspira- What can be done about parking? One of my friends stopped shopping here because of tions through a jointly-owned and democratically- this issue. Can you buy a space? controlled enterprise. We understand parking continues to be one of our biggest challenges, especially Do you have a thought since we share the limited spaces available to all tenants in The Factory. you’d like to share with Values Purchasing a space is not an option (though I’m sure many people would love it!), however, being strategic about when you shop can help. The lot is usually signifi- Cooperatives are based on the values of self-help, the Co-op’s staff? cantly quieter after 7 PM and on weekdays before 11 AM. After 6 PM it is legal to self-responsibility, democracy, equality, equity, park in the right lane of Penn Avenue (outside the back entrance) and Meade Then fill out and submit a and solidarity. In the tradition of their founders, Street has some street parking as well. comment card at customer cooperative members believe in the ethical values -Kate, Marketing & Member Services service during your next visit! of honesty, openness, social responsibility, and caring for others.

Principles August’s Round Up Recipient: Animal Rescue League Shelter & Wildlife Center Most cooperatives around the world follow the core principles that were adopted by the International Co-operative Alliance in 1995. Cooperatives trace the roots of these principles to the first modern cooperative founded in Rochdale, England in 1844. These principles are guidelines by which coopera- tives put their values into practice.

1. Voluntary and Open Membership Cooperatives are voluntary organizations, open to all people able to use its services and willing to accept The Animal Rescue League Shelter & Wildlife The concept for the Animal Rescue League dates The Animal Rescue League helps any animal in the responsibilities of membership, without gender, Center is the largest animal welfare organization back to 1909. The clinic and shelter, located in need, regardless of species or breed. For more social, racial, political or religious discrimination. in Southwestern Pennsylvania. The shelter cares the East End of Pittsburgh, provides adoption information, visit their website or call 412-345- for and finds permanent, loving homes for thou- services and a low-cost animal wellness clinic 7300. And if you want to support them in their 2. Democratic Member Control sands of dogs, cats, and other companion animals, that is open to the public. The Wildlife Center mission to provide temporary shelter, food, Cooperatives are democratic organizations controlled many of whom have been abused, abandoned, and is located in Verona, PA, and provides rehabil- medical attention, and comfort to all abandoned, by their members—those who buy the goods or use neglected. In 2013 alone, the Wildlife Center reha- itation services for wild animals. The Animal neglected, and injured animals; restore lost the services of the cooperative—who actively par- bilitated 2,746 wild animals native to Pennsylva- Rescue League has been recognized nationally animals to their owners or seek new homes for nia that had been harmed or displaced by encoun- by the Humane Society of the United States for them; and educate the public about the humane ticipate in setting policies and making decisions. ters with humans. They are our region’s only open their participation in the Dog Fighting Rescue care of animals with a goal of reducing overpop- door shelter, which means that no animal brought Coalition, and has won the national ASPCA ulation, be sure to tell your Co-op cashier you 3. Member Economic Participation to them will ever be turned away. Community Engagement award. want to Round Up this month! Members contribute equally to, and democrati- cally control, the capital of the cooperative. This Your spare change can result in positive change! www.animalrescue.org benefits members in proportion to the business they conduct with the cooperative rather than on the capital invested.

4. Autonomy and Independence Growing in Cooperation Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help organiza- tions controlled by their members. If the co-op enters IMAGINE into agreements with other organizations or raises In the month of June we welcomed 46 new members to our Co-op! YOURSELF HERE capital from external sources, it does so based on terms that ensure democratic control by the members We extend our gratitude to each and every member, whether you’ve been The Co-operator reaches 10,000 homes and maintains the cooperative’s autonomy. signed up for weeks, months, or years. We couldn’t do it without you - thank per month and is posted online you for your support, your patronage, and your investment in this business! each month on our website.

5. Education, Training and Information Email [email protected] Cooperatives provide education and training for We invite all of you new members to sign up for a Member Orientation or call us at 412-242-3598 ext. 103 to members, elected representatives, managers and with a member services expert. We will give you a guided tour of the store, get the word out! employees so they can contribute effectively to the explain the benefits of membership, and fill you in on the many ways you development of their cooperative. Members also in- can become more involved in your Co-op. To reserve your spot, please call form the general public about the nature and benefits 412-242-3598 ext. 103 or email [email protected]. of cooperatives.

6. Cooperation among Cooperatives Cooperatives serve their members most effectively and strengthen the cooperative movement by work- ing together through local, national, regional and international structures.

7. Concern for Community While focusing on member needs, cooperatives work for the sustainable development of com- munities through policies and programs accepted by the members.

August 2014 The Co-operator Page 3 ELECTION UPDATES CANDIDATES FOR 2014 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

opportunity for new community folks and products as possible. This will infuse more Maria Bowman existing members to explore the space Tina Russell money into the economy, adding and/or while sampling a variety of products from securing more badly needed jobs. the different co-op departments. Let’s wel- come more people into our amazing space! If there are opportunities to partner with other Co-ops, this would strengthen the What do you think are some important Co-op community. long-term goals for EEFC? What do you think are some important I believe tasty, culturally appropriate, long-term goals for EEFC? healthy food should be affordable for all. As a food-justice advocate, I’d like to nav- Expansion in whatever form it may take is igate additional avenues for low-income an important long-term goal for the EEFC. community members to access the abun- There have been a number of improvements dance of EEFC. Additionally, I know how in recent years, which is a part of this process. important addressing the co-op expansion However, parking at the current location is What experience and skills (professional will be in the coming years. I look for- What experience and skills (professional limited as are shelf-space and meeting space. or business) or unique perspectives would ward to participating in the discussion of or business) or unique perspectives would Additional capacity would allow the Co-op you bring to the EEFC Board? how to move into the co-op’s future while you bring to the EEFC Board? to purchase more local products, better serve honoring the dedicated members, employ- existing customers, attract new members, and As Grow Pittsburgh’s Edible Schoolyard ees and community that gave EEFC a solid I was appointed to the EEFC Board of Di- fulfill its mission of “enhancing the physical Program Manager, I have the opportunity foundation. Finally, I believe we must pri- rectors in March 2013 to fill a vacant seat. and social health in our community.” to engage with a wide variety of Pittsbur- oritize listening to farmers/producers and In 2014, I assumed the role of Member ghers (young and old) on the topics of food pay them fairly for producing the healthy, Linkage Committee Chair. During my ten- It is also important to continue to engage education and food justice on a regular whole food we enjoy at EEFC. ure on the Board, I have had the opportuni- members and to promote awareness of the basis. My experiences as a teacher and ty to participate in various training sessions Co-op and its value to the community. an employee at Pittsburgh’s active urban Why do you want to be on the Board of such as a board leadership development agriculture nonprofit empower me to bring Directors? course for new directors, CCMA (Consum- What do you think are some important authentic, local perspectives on food and er Cooperative Management Association one-year goals for the EEFC? food choices to the EEFC board. The food we eat is so very important. I’m Conference), and workshops facilitated by continually impressed with the offerings the Co-op’s consultants. The store is looking and functioning better What do you think are some important of EEFC and would love to support the than ever, and we are undoubtedly approach- short-term goals for EEFC? work of the co-op by sharing my voice I hold a BA degree in Marketing and Public ing the time of expansion. Our sound princi- and experience. I believe strongly in the Relations and a Food Safety Manager ples and responsible business practices will My short-term goals for the Co-op would cooperative model of ownership; sharing certification. I am the quality specialist for a be valued throughout Pittsburgh. include seeking additional ways to actively the burden and joy of navigating respon- food/nutraceutical extraction facility, which engage current members while attracting sible food production, distribution and utilizes a green, chemical-free technology. Why do you want to be on the Board of new members. Keeping our feet on the consumption – all in an effort to sustain Directors? ground while also striving for a wider and celebrate the farmers and informed What do you think are some important member-base. What about Tour and Taste consumers working so hard for the health short-term goals for EEFC? I believe that many adverse health condi- Thursdays? Or, perhaps, providing another of our planet and its people. tions result from poor nutrition and from An important short-term goal is to generate chemicals used to produce our food supply. more interest and participation in Co-op elec- The Co-op offers valuable products and In the short term, I feel it is important for tions and events such as the Annual Meeting. provides education to the public about the Molly McHolme EEFC to continue providing the highest Directors represent member interests and pro- benefits of natural and organic. Although quality foods, education, and atmosphere. vide the appropriate level of oversight. Mem- Directors are not involved in the day-to- I think it is important to constantly strive bers should have sufficient qualified candidates day operational aspects of the Co-op, they in making these foods as affordable and from which to select for Director positions. provide essential services. I would appre- accessible as possible. I would like to see ciate the chance to be a part of the Co-op’s EEFC strive to further engage its mem- I would like to see the Co-op continue its future growth and to do as much as I can bership, expending upon the great current efforts to alleviate the parking situation within the realm of the role of Director to efforts of community engagement and and to offer as many quality locally grown contribute to its success. educational opportunities. Finally, diversi- ty is at the heart of the EEFC community, and I think it is important to draw upon What do you think are some important the many cultural influences and voices to Dennis Schauer short-term goals for EEFC? make EEFC the best it can be. The continuation and implementation What do you think are some important of all the organizational readiness and long-term goals for EEFC? systems improvement initiatives our What experience and skills (professional Management Team has been working very or business) or unique perspectives would Long-term visioning and goal-setting is hard on. you bring to the EEFC Board? important for the Board to implement, but these should be driven by the membership What do you think are some important I would bring passion, energy, and enthusi- and the larger community. In general, a long-term goals for EEFC? asm to the EEFC board. I have widespread space where any and all seek to enter, experience in farming and gardening in the feeling welcomed and embraced, finding To continue to improve the quality and quan- Pittsburgh region, as well as an in-depth food that is fresh, healthy, affordable, and tity of life for the people of our community knowledge of food systems from the Food culturally appropriate, where light, love, by providing education, advocacy, and intel- Studies program at Chatham University. friendship and stewardship are cultivated, ligent, honest alternatives to an increasingly Further, as a Garden Educator for Grow where sustainability is at the forefront, and What experience and skills (professional compromised industrial food system. Pittsburgh, I have developed skills in one can learn, prosper, celebrate, and grow or business) or unique perspectives would engaging students and community mem- -- sounds ideal to me! you bring to the EEFC Board? I believe the next strategic step with the bers through the lens of food and garden- greatest payoff toward fulfilling these ing. I love working in an environment of Why do you want to be on the Board of Eight years of professional experience in purposes is multi-location expansion. creativity and collaboration, and strive to Directors? internal audit, public accounting, and cor- constantly challenge myself and others to porate accounting, and one full three-year Why do you want to be on the Board of continually grow, to best serve ourselves I recognize EEFC’s important role in term on the Co-op’s Board of Directors Directors? and our communities. cultivating community, sustainability, and (including one year as Treasurer). health. EEFC has been my “happy place” To serve our community and the greater What do you think are some important for years -- I would be thrilled to give Also, I’ve been a member of the Co-op world by making a contribution toward the short-term goals for EEFC? back! since 2005. realization of our Co-op’s Ends Statement.

Page 4 East End Food Co-op August 2014 ELECTION UPDATES

GET OUT AND 2014

ANNUAL MEETING

VOTE! ALL MEMBERS WELCOME!

FOR THE: BOARD OF WHERE? WHEN? The Union Project DIRECTORS Sunday, September 7th 801 North Negley Ave. 5 - 8 PM Pittsburgh, PA 15206 WHEN? Voting will occur August 1st through September 30th.  Vote for new Board Members  Get updates on the past year of business at your Co-op HOW?  Participate in an interactive exercise with speaker Fully paid household members can complete a ballot located Mark Goehring of CDS Consulting Co-op below and mail it in or drop it off at Customer Service. Ballots  Children’s activities will be available will also be available at Customer Service and the Annual Meeting on September 7th.  Dine on a delicious meal from your Co-op’s Café  Hear music by Several Conclusions

This event is FREE, but RSVPs are requested. Please call 412-242-3598 to reserve your space.

FINDING YOUR MEMBERSHIP NUMBER VOTING INSTRUCTIONS FOR EEFC BOARD OF DIRECTORS

If you have the THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR CASTING YOUR VOTE A FEW THINGS TO REMEMBER: brown paper IN THIS YEAR’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS ELECTION. card, please • We can only accept one ballot per include all nine Please take some time to learn more about the membership number. digits of your candidates on Page 4 or in the store. After you member number have read their statements, please complete the If a household has a membership, only one vote (circled in the ballot below. is allowed from that household. If there are mul- example to the tiple votes from one membership number, ALL • Mail it to the Co-op (7516 Meade St. Pittsburgh, will be disqualified. right). PA 15208) so that it is received by September 30th ... OR Please follow the member number instructions in If you have the the left column. older plastic card, • Drop it off at the customer service desk before please skip the the end of business hours on September 30th • Do not allow anyone else to fill in your first two digits ... OR ballot for you or deposit it in the ballot box at the beginning for you. • Cast your ballot at the Annual of your number Meeting on September 7th at the Proxy voting is not allowed per the East End and the very last Union Project. Food Co-op Bylaws and Policies. number (circled in the example to If you are unsure of your member BALLOTS WITHOUT A COMPLETE the right.) number, please call Customer MEMBER NUMBER WILL NOT BE Service at 412-242-3598. INCLUDED IN THE FINAL COUNT. If you have the newer plastic card, please skip the first two digits at the EAST END 2014 BALLOT beginning of your number and the very last number VOTE FOR (circled in the X BOARD OF DIRECTORS example to the 4 0 MEMBERSHIP NUMBER (REQUIRED, SEE LEFT FOR INSTRUCTIONS) • Fill in the box to the left of the right.) candidates of your choice. • Vote for up to three candidates, If you have the but no more than three. green paper card, please MEMBER NAME (OPTIONAL) Maria Bowman include all nine Molly McHolme digits of your member number Tina Russell (circled in the example to the DATE Dennis Schauer right).

August 2014 The Co-operator Page 5 THE FOOD YOU EAT

Healthy Kids Lunches continued from page 1 Know Your Farmer: obviously fall into the main food groups: which are healthier than the alternative Tuscarora Organic Grower Co-op fruit leather, organic chocolate milk, overall, for years to come. natural nutrition/energy bars, a single How did the cooperative model create serving of chips. My hope is that he’ll Although the process is ongoing (there are no Tuscarora Organic Growers Co-op (TOG) success for farmers? covet these treats enough that they don’t constants in child-rearing), and I make new consists of 46 member farms that bring end up in trading action. We shop for these discoveries to address new needs along the way, over 120,000 cases of produce from farm The farmers soon discovered that by mystery items, along with the rest of his following these few simple concepts has made to city, offering locally grown, certified working together, they could coordinate lunch, at our local food co-op. This makes my son’s school lunches pretty healthy, simple organic produce to Pittsburgh and the metro crop production to complement one it easier to minimize the stuff I really don’t and relatively friction-free. At least for now. areas of Washington, D.C. year-round. another rather than compete. Each could want him to eat: high-fructose corn syrup, Many of the growers’ farms are located grow for their markets and grow for the hydrogenated fats, artificial chemical Article reprinted with permission from throughout the seven-county region of co-op. Each grower could focus on crops sweeteners and dyes. An occasional treat is StrongerTogether.coop. Find more recipes South Central Pennsylvania known as the they do well, and the cooperative form of a compromise on my part, but my hope is and information about your food and where Juniata River Valley. The co-op’s ware- business fit the farmers’ needs, allow- that it keeps him eating our home lunches, it comes from at www.strongertogether.coop. house and office are located beside New Morning Farm near Maddensville, PA. By ing ownership and market access to be adopting the cooperative model, TOG has divided fairly and decisions to be made seen positive growth every growing season jointly. Through cooperation, the growers since it was established by three neighbor- were able to serve their customers better GMO OMG: A Father’s Discovery of ing Pennsylvania farms in 1988. Tuscarora by providing a diversity of crops and a Organic Growers Cooperative is a member level of service that no one grower could How Little We Know About Our Food of the Pennsylvania Association for Sus- provide on his own. by Kate Safin, Assistant Marketing & Member Services Manager tainable Agriculture (PASA), and you can find their organic produce at the Co-op. How does Tuscarora Organic Farm To learn more, you can visit their website, Cooperative operate? Why would farmers in a poor country feeding their three young children back www.tog.coop. overcoming a devastating earthquake burn home in the United States. On a quest to TOG is legally incorporated as a produc- 475 tons of seeds? That’s what filmmaker learn more, the Seiferts embarked on a What was the inspiration behind form- ers’ cooperative, which means that the Jeremy Seifert wanted to know, so he cross-country trip, talking to consumers, ing a growers’ cooperative? business is owned by the farmers it serves. traveled to Haiti to find out. His journey led farmers, and seed providers, documenting The economic goal of the co-op is service him to an awakening of what his film calls the entire expedition on film.GMO OMG Tuscarora Organic Growers was established (such as coordination, marketing, and “the largest experiment ever conducted on is told through the eyes of a father with when three neighboring organic fruit and warehousing), at cost, to growers. The human beings.” an authentic curiosity about what’s in the vegetable farmers in South Central Penn- TOG staff consists of 4 full-time employ- food we eat and a genuine concern for the sylvania were all faced with overwhelming ees and up to 18 part-time employees. The seeds the Haitians burned were gifts health of his family, as well as the health of demand for their products from food Each farm receives approximately 75% from Monsanto, pledged shorty after a 7.0 consumers and farmers across the world. co-ops, retailers, and restaurants. In order of the sale of their produce through the magnitude earthquake struck the country in In this film, the encroaching darkness of to meet this demand, that went beyond co-op and is paid within two weeks of the 2010. Haitians rejected the seeds in a pro- unknown health and environmental risks, traditional farm markets, they decided to sale. The balance of the money is used to test against corporate exploitation of their seed takeover, chemical toxins, and food hire someone to manage the sales as well as operate the co-op, including the cost of country. They consider genetically modi- monopoly meets with the light of a growing to cooperate in providing produce for their delivery to its markets in the Baltimore- fied seeds an attack on small farmers and resistance of organic farmers, concerned initial joint venture. Washington metropolitan area. a threat to the diversity of their farmland. citizens, and a burgeoning movement to Monsanto is the world’s largest biotechnol- take back what we have lost. ogy company and the creator of genetically engineered seeds that have been designed GMO OMG is an uplifting documentary to withstand heavy treatments of their com- with some alarming discoveries that panion product, the herbicide Round Up. provide a much-needed reminder that we Monsanto is well known around the planet are at a tipping point, with a handful of for creating a grip on farmers, introducing large corporations buying, modifying, and their seeds as a promise of higher yields patenting seeds to ensure total control over and protection against pests, disease, and everything we eat - while blocking us from drought, only to have the seeds fail. Addi- the right to know what’s in our food. The tionally, the crops yielded from genetically film is appropriate for all audiences, from engineered seeds have not yet been proven those already involved in the food move- safe for consumption, even as they pervade ment to those just discovering the impact of our food supply. genetically modified organisms. We invite you to join us for a free screening of this Once his eyes were opened to the issues award-winning film at 6:30 PM on August surrounding GMOs, Seifert couldn’t help 13th, at The Carnegie Library - Homewood but wonder what he and his wife were (more information can be found on page 8).

Brown Bag Apple Salad New In The Aisles

Ingredients: SHILOH FARMS - Organic Farro EMMY’S ORGANICS - Coconut Vanilla Mini Macaroons 1 apple, cored and cut into pieces 1 cup fresh pineapple, cut into pieces WOODSPIRITS Sauna Soap 1 cup seedless grapes, halved PROVIDENCE ACRES Pork Burgers 1 small orange, peeled and segmented MINERAL FUSION Moisture Lip Tint 1 tablespoon honey HOPE FOODS Sriracha Hummus 2 tablespoons apple juice 3 TWINS ICE CREAM Madagascar Vanilla and Cookies & Cream 1 tablespoon lemon juice BEE FREE HONEE Vegan Honey Made with Apples 1/2 cup granola Pinch of cinnamon 3 tablespoons Greek yogurt (optional) Reprinted by permission from StrongerTogether.coop. Find more recipes and information about your food What more do you want from your house? and where it comes from at www.strongertogether.coop. Improve comfort and efficiency. Preparation: Create more living space. In a large bowl, mix together all of the ingredients and serve immediately. If making the salad a day ahead, add the granola just before serving.

Serving Suggestion: Older houses our specialty Pack the apple salad into individual serving containers and top each with equal Consulting and Remodeling amounts of the granola (if the lunch box/bag will not be in the refrigerator, leave out the yogurt). Substitute orange juice for apple juice or lime juice for aj stones.com the lemon juice for an even perkier flavor. 412-241-6042

Page 6 East End Food Co-op August 2014 STAFF NEWS

THE CO-OP What’s your favorite thing about the Co-op in general? The East End Food Co-op is Pittsburgh’s Q. only member-owned natural and organic EMPLOYEE food market, serving the community since 1980. We offer the finest in certified organic OF THE MONTH The store’s employees. produce and herbs, bulk foods, vitamins and A. supplements, cruelty-free health and beauty aids, organic and natural packaged and perishable goods and hard-to-find items for Q. What’s your favorite food product here? special dietary needs.

Our award-winning Vegetarian Café and Cocoa Diablo Cookies from Liz Lovely’s. They’re sooooo good! Juice Bar offers a daily array of fresh, A. wholesome, hot entrées, soups, salads, and vegan dishes. Q. What wouldn’t you change about the Co-op? The Co-op is open to the public and mem- bership is not required to make purchases, but members do receive better prices, have Wendell, in the Produce Department. He will always make you laugh. access to the Federal , and can A. vote and serve on the Board of Directors.

7516 Meade St. Pittsburgh, PA 15208 How did you feel when you found out you were the Employee of www.eastendfood.coop Congratulations to Linden Mueller who was chosen Q. the Month? as the Co-op staff pick for Employee of the Month! Store: Café: Linden has worked here for almost 2 years and is both Very surprised! 412.242.3598 412.242.7726 a cashier and a customer service representative. A. 8 AM - 9 PM 8 AM - 7 PM

Credit Union: 412.243.7574 Wednesdays 6-8 PM Saturdays 3-6 PM NEW FACES BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Sarah Aerni, President Marc Ratty Produce Mike Collura, Vice President Marc recently moved to Pittsburgh, and he has always wanted to work at a co-op. His Mark Frey, Secretary favorite thing about the cooperative business model is that everyone gets a say. He Dennis Schauer, Treasurer brings customer service skills he gained while working at a five-star resort to his role in Cortney Seltman ‘14 the Produce Department. Marc’s interests outside of work include reading, crocheting, Tina Russell ‘14 making ice cream, and taking city walks. Dirk Kalp ‘15 Emily Mercurio ‘15 Jared Evanoski ‘16 Unclassifieds: MANAGEMENT TEAM MASSAGE THERAPY – Looking for a truly therapeutic massage? Check my website General Manager: Justin Pizzella blog for 20th ANNIVERSARY SPECIALS! www.bodyharmonypgh.com 412-871-5388. Human Resources: Jen Girty Finance: Shawn McCullough SCHOOLHOUSE YOGA has classes for everybody: Gentle, Prenatal, Mommy & me, Marketing & Member Services: Kundalini, Ashtanga, Yin, Yoga levels 1,2,3. Strip District, Squirrel Hill, North Hills Heather Hackett IT: Erin Myers IMAGINE YOURSELF HERE! Classified ads available in The Co-operator for only Grocery: Maura Holliday $35/month. Member and contract discounts available. For more info contact Café: Amber Pertz [email protected] or call 412-242-3598 ext. 103. Front End: eric cressley Produce: Evan Diamond

THE CO-OPERATOR MAKE A DIFFERENCE…

Editor: Heather Hackett MAKE THE SWITCH!

Assistant Editor: Kate Safin Design, Layout & Production: Katy Nevinsky Get a 100% Wind Electricity Plan at a low fixed rate. Printed By: Typecraft Press, Inc. The Co-operator is a monthly publication mailed to members of the East End Food Co-op. Additional copies are available at Cus- tomer Service, the store’s entrance area, and at outreach events. The Co-operator is also available online at www.eastendfood.coop. Café Phipps: named a Opinions expressed are the writers’ own and do not necessarily reflect Co-op policy. Food & Wine magazine The East End Food Co-op does not en- 2014 Best Museum dorse the views or products of the adver- Restaurant in the U.S. tisers in this newsletter.

ConTaCT us: If you are interested in more information about advertising or would like to submit an article, please contact Member Services:

Email: [email protected] LowCostWind.com

Phone: 412.242.3598 ext. 103 For more information, call CITIZEN POWER at 412-421-7029.

August 2014 The Co-operator 14PHC520_EastEndCoOp_FINAL.indd 1 Page5/14/14 7 2:06 PM CAFÉ SPECIALS • AUGUST 2014

SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT 1 2 BURRITO BAR SUMMER AFÉ VEGETABLE STIR C FRY Café 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 CHEF’S CHOICE BLACK BEAN & BROCCOLI DAL INDIAN KITCHEN TEMPEH & PIZZA GUMBO HOURS YAM QUESADILLA CURRY BROCCOLI DAIRY & VEGAN ARRABBIATA Hours SOUP, JUICE & SALAD BAR: 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 CHEF’S CHOICE BRAISED KALE PASTITSIO GREEK KITCHEN TOFU & BURRITO BAR SUNDRIED SOUP, JUICE & SALAD BAR: AND WHITE BROCCOLI IN TOMATO CREAM DAILY 8AM-7PM BEANS COCONUT PASTA CILANTRO SAUCE DAILY 8AM-7PM 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 CHEF’S CHOICE HONEY BBQ MASSAMAN CURRY THAI KITCHEN RATATOUILLE PIZZA VEGETABLE LO OT AR TOFU DAIRY & VEGAN MEIN HHOT BBAR:: DAILYAILY 11AMAM-7PMPM 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 D 11 -7 CHEF’S CHOICE BUTTERNUT & IRISH STEW IRISH KITCHEN JERK TEMPEH WITH BURRITO BAR QUICHE LORRAINE WALNUT CURRIED PEACH LASAGNA RELISH WEEKEND BRUNCH: WEEKEND BRUNCH: 31 9AM -1PM CHEF’S CHOICE 9AM -1:30PM August Co-op Events

GMO OMG FILM SCREENING HOMEMADE GREEN CLEANING PRODUCTS It’s Easy to start EatIng VEgan! Sara Heald, GMO FREE PA Rachel Breit, Naturally Clean Rebecca Gilbert, Yummy Plants & Vegan Pittsburgh

WEdnEsday, august 13th at 6:30 PM WEdnEsday, august 20th at 6:30 PM WEdnEsday, august 27th at 6:30 PM Carnegie Library - Homewood Gemini Children’s Theater Carnegie Library - Homewood

How do GMOs affect our children, the health of Learn how to make your home sparkle with Vegan Pittsburgh presents Rebecca Gilbert, our planet, and our freedom of choice? Is it pos- eco-friendly solutions! Green cleaning products founder of Yummy Plants vegan lifestyle sible to reject the food system currently in place, are easily made at home with common ingredients website and author of It’s Easy to Start Eating or have we lost something we can’t gain back? like baking soda, vinegar, essential oils, and most Vegan! YUMMY PLANTS 101, a step-by-step These questions take film director Jeremy Seifert of all water. There are many reasons to try these plan to help you start eating vegan today. In this on a journey from his family’s table in California child and pet friendly products – improved air presentation, Rebecca suggests vegan protein to Haiti, Paris, Norway, and ultimately to the lobby quality, reduced amounts of toxic chemicals in our sources, easy egg and dairy substitutions, how of agra-giant Monsanto, from which he is uncere- waterways, and hundreds of dollars saved on store- to stock a vegan pantry, and how to stay vegan moniously ejected. Along the way we gain insights bought products! Naturally Clean professional, in social situations. She’ll demo and sample her into a question of growing concern to citizens Rachel Breit, will demonstrate how to make recipe for “No Chicken Salad” and share tips around the world: what’s on your plate? After the all-purpose cleaner, stain remover, bathroom on how to turn traditional recipes into vegan film, GMO FREE PA will be on hand to discuss the cleaner, and air freshener, and attendees will take delights. Attendees will have the opportunity to film and answer your questions. home recipes and a sample! buy her book.

These events are FREE; just call 412-242-3598 to reserve your spot!

Look for your Co-op at this upcoming event: Show how much Saturday, August 23rd, 8:15 AM for Save the Date 1.5 Mile WALK/9:00 AM for 5k RUN: Your Co-op is a proud sponsor of Run you “LIKE” us Around the Square, Pittsburgh’s largest footrace. Dogs can participate in the 1.5 and follow Mile race, too! Throughout the race there will be musicians, costumed characters, and themed water stops. Following the EEFC online! race, look for your Co-op’s table in Frick When? Saturday, October 18th Park’s Fern Hollow where we’ll have some refreshments and energy snacks for Where? Carnegie Mellon University you. More information and registration: www.runaroundthesquare.com.

SHOP CO-OP EVERY DAY 8 AM – 9 PM • 412.242.3598 • CREDIT UNION WED 6 PM – 8 PM & SAT 11 AM – 3 PM • 412.243.7574