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OFFICIAL NEWSLETTER OF THE PARK SLOPE FOOD COOP

Established 1973

Volume GG, Number 6 March 22, 2012 Anatomy of Direct Democracy: OPEN LETTER TO ALL MEMBERS: COOP Subject to Severe Sanctions February 2012 From Fire Department Headquarters General Meeting By Allison Pennell paprika from the Park Slope elaying firefighters threatens lives. Food Coop members are cre- fter covering this Food Coop. Sadly, that’s next D month’s GM, I’m begin- month. I had gotten the ating a life-threatening situation on Union Street. A representa- Aning to get what assignment fantasizing that I tive from the Fire Department headquarters recently met with me. Jonathan Lethem meant would arrive to find a giant when he said that Brooklyn is vat of hummus in the middle He warned us in the strongest terms that they have zero tolerance cancerous with novelists. of the Beth Elohim ballroom for double-parking on Union Street and for blocking the fire station That goes for journalists too. and there would be live driveway. Our activities have caused delayed responses to fires. In Because, I tell you, never has wrestling and color commen- an uneventful monthly Coop tary by Ann Herpel and Imani addition, when a car is parked or is standing in the loading zone meeting been so widely and Q’ryn, the GM Chairwoman. without actually loading it tempts others who cannot pull to the hilariously reported as the In fact, the 300 or so mem- curb to double-park. So waiting by the curb without being engaged February General Meeting. bers who showed up were And this wasn’t even the told the March 27 General actively in loading is therefore also a hazard. It is also illegal. Tickets big meeting about the refer- Meeting will be held at will be issued and the Coop will be subject to sanctions if we do not endum to vote on whether to Brooklyn Tech’s auditorium, remedy these situations. vote on voting to ban Israeli- which is somewhere between Union Street is two-way, and every double-parked car could poten- made SodaStreams and CONTINUED ON PAGE 3 tially delay a fire truck responding to an emergency. If a vehicle is Next General Meeting on March 27 parked in our driveway, it forces delivery trucks and anyone quickly The General Meeting of the Park Slope Food Coop is held on picking up groceries to double-park. We are requesting all members the last Tuesday of each month. The next General Meeting to follow these guidelines: will be on Tuesday, March 27, at 7:00 p.m. at a different loca- tion, for this meeting only: Brooklyn Technical High Please use the yellow-vested “Walkers” to Do not call a car service until you are School, 29 Fort Greene Place. Use main entrance on cor- help you bring your groceries to your waiting out in front of the Coop. ner of South Elliot and DeKalb Ave. car—don’t bring your car to the Coop. If Do not allow your car service car to block The agenda is in this Gazette, on the Coop website at there are no walkers, please take your the firehouse driveway. Find a different www.foodcoop.com, and available as a flier in the entryway groceries to your car. place to load even if it is further away. of the Coop. For more information about the GM and about Consider using public transportation or a Do not park in the Fire Department Coop governance, please see the center of this issue. bicycle. The Walkers will accompany you reserved spaces across the street or just Check-in for this meeting will begin at 6:15 p.m. Members to the subway or bus stop and return the past the firehouse. If firefighters are will not be allowed in prior to 6:15 p.m. You must be a Food grocery cart. delayed in arriving on the job it could Coop member to attend the General Meeting and must Do not bring your car to the front of the jeopardize someone’s life if a fire hap- bring a photo I.D. card to be admitted. There is no re-entry. Coop, especially during delivery hours pens at that time. Once you check-in, if you leave the building, you will not be that extend from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. Do not double-park anywhere else on the allowed to re-enter. Snacks and beverages will not be pro- Never park in front of the Coop, even block. vided by the Coop. Please plan accordingly if you need food with someone sitting in the car. Cur- Please always consider how your behav- or drink. We request that you keep eating to a minimum. rently this is a common practice, as ior may delay the Fire Department from Time for agenda item in parentheses is a suggestion. The inconsiderate and life threatening as responding to an emergency. Chair has the discretion to change the time allotted. This it is. Thank you for your cooperation, meeting must end by 10:15 p.m. More information on this Joe Holtz, General Manager item may be available at the entrance table at the meeting.

Fri, Sat • Blood Drive IN THIS ISSUE Mar 30–31 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Flower Power ...... 2 Apr 1, 2, 3, • Training Sessions for 2012 Menstrual Products Trigger Concerns ...... 2 Coop 5, 17, 21, 22 Brooklyn Food Conference – various times Puzzle ...... 4 Thu, Apr 5 • Food Class: Board of Directors Candidates...... 7 Event Food for BrainPOWER 7:30 p.m. Coordinator’s Corner ...... 9 Coop Hours, Coffeehouse ...... 10 Highlights Tue, Apr 10 • Safe Food Committee Film Night: Calendar of Events, with GM Agenda ...... 12 Farmageddon 7:00 p.m. Safe Food Committee Report ...... 14 Look for additional information about these and other events in this issue. Letters to the Editor ...... 15-19 Classified Ads ...... 20 12_03-22 p01-20_Layout 1 3/21/12 5:54 PM Page 2

2  March 22, 2012 Park Slope Food Coop, Brooklyn, NY

interior projects. Flower Power Her largest project to date was the White House holiday décor. The big job came her By Nicole Feliciano sculpture, earning her MFA in way at the end of the summer loral artistry is alive and Los Angeles. After gradua- of 2011. While knee-deep in Fwell in Brooklyn. And one tion, she moved back east to another massive project, of the most promising tal- New York City and eventually Emily got an email from Laura ents can be found wrapping found her way to Brooklyn. Dowling, the White House cheese on her regular Coop After a brief period assisting florist. Dowling is a new fix- shift. A Coop member since other sculptors in NYC, Emily ture at the White House and 2008, Emily Thompson has launched her floral business has a reputation for shaking quite an impressive portfo- in 2006. Though she changed things up. The installation is

lio of clients—including the medium she worked in, BY KEVIN RYAN PHOTOS an annual holiday tradition Michelle Obama, but more there is still a strong sculp- Floral artist Emily Thompson. and Dowling tapped Emily to on that later—and she’s tural element to all her work. bring in fresh ideas to the done it all while maintaining “I focus on the textures of settings. It appears her For example, Emily uses quite landmark. Upon completion a delightfully non-promo- the materials as opposed to embrace of form has captured a bit of driftwood in her work. of her Labor Day project, tional attitude and with a color,” says Emily. When she’s the attention of tastemakers. It would be impossible for the Emily returned the email and nod to conservancy. talking flowers she tends to In 2009 she opened her in-demand designer to stroll found out more about the The down-to-earth Ver- talk in sculptural terms, “I like storefront in Vinegar Hill, the Long Island beaches for scope and scale of the project. monter was raised to the character of each material Brooklyn. A visit to Emily’s stu- the just-right pieces; her time During the discussions with embrace rough and tumble to come forth in what I do,” say dio and shop is illuminating. is better spent in the studio re- Dowling, Emily was told to beauty. After some schooling Emily. Today you can find her One quickly gets a sense of her imagining these found objects “Go to the limit and we’ll scale on the East Coast, she head- creations featured in national whimsical style. The studio is as part of a larger design. it back if need be.” ed to California to study media and in some very fancy filled with antique vases, tan- On a typical day, Emily will In November of 2011, Emily gles of branches, vintage either head out herself or drove down to Washington, paper and more. In fact, what send an assistant to comb DC, for a week-long marathon stands out are the relatively the market for finds. Then the setup. As the designer tells it, few flowers in the shop. For greenery, branches and flow- her mission was to “bring the the most part, the workspace ers are lugged back to Brook- outdoors inside.” For Emily, is filled with natural finds— lyn for processing. Each week that meant not simply relying berries, branches and wood. is different depending on the on 16’ fir trees. She and her While it may appear that Emi- projects she’s landed. team of florists put together ly’s work is the result of long, Seasonality is a consistent an inspired series of rooms for ponderous walks in the coun- theme in her work. Right now Michelle Obama using a try, in fact most of her materi- you’ll find early berries woven series of unusual garlands als are sourced from the into her flowers as she and foliage to turn the East Flower District. attempts to “express the sea- Room into a lush holiday Emily has built strong rela- son.” While she is focused on space. Tapping into her Ver- tionships with particular ven- details, Emily is also mont roots, Emily enlisted her dors in the flower business. “I ambitious. Rather than limit father to dig up massive spend a lot of money to make herself to tabletop arrange- stones and rocks to be a part it look like these pieces came ments, she has the vision and of the décor. The artist embed- Emily’s arrangements express the seasons. out of the woods,” says Emily. talent to take on large-scale CONTINUED ON PAGE 5 Menstrual Products Trigger Concerns About Chemicals, Composition and Use

By Hayley Gorenberg disrupt hormones in the body and used in U.S. tampons is now produced atal cases of tampon-related may be linked to certain cancers. using elemental chlorine-free or total- Ftoxic shock syndrome (TSS) The Food and Drug Administration ly chlorine-free bleaching processes,” decades ago brought the qualities, regulates the safety and effectiveness stating “[s]ome elemental chlorine- composition and use of tampons of medical devices, including tam- free bleaching processes can theoreti- into headlines worldwide. Since pons. The agency has posted a fact cally generate dioxins at extremely low then, allegations of contaminated sheet confronting allegations about levels, and dioxins are occasionally materials and overall questions tampons spreading over the Internet. detected in trace amounts. In practice, about the composition of absorbent The FDA took on concerns about however, this method is considered to menstrual products have surfaced “contamination” by asbestos and be dioxin free.” periodically, demanding the atten- dioxin and the alleged link between The FDA remarked that the federal tion of the federal Food and Drug rayon fibers and Toxic Shock Syn- Environmental Protection Agency Administration (FDA) and occasion- drome, concluding in online materi- (EPA) worked with wood pulp pro-

ally triggering questions from Coop als updated in 2009, “The available ducers to use dioxin-free processes WASSYLENKO BY CATHY ILLUSTRATION consumers, which led to this article. scientific evidence does not support that would reduce dioxin pollution in these rumors.” the environment, which may infil- ing triggered by their use. The FDA Dioxin and Asbestos Concerns The FDA responded to “allegations trate raw materials used to produce said, “Before any tampon is marketed Specific concerns often include that some tampons contain toxic tampons through existing contami- in the U.S., FDA reviews its design and whether cotton or rayon used to pro- amounts of the chemical dioxin.” It nation in the air, water and ground— materials. Asbestos is not an ingredi- duce tampons and menstrual pads acknowledged dioxin in tampons “at reintroducing dioxin. ent in any U.S. brand of tampon, nor is expose users to the chemical dioxin. or below the detectable limit,” and Allegations circulating online con- it associated with the fibers used in Dioxin is a byproduct of the chlorine concluded, “[n]o risk to health would cerning asbestos charged that Ameri- making tampons. Moreover, tampon bleaching process, used in the manu- be expected from these trace can tampon producers added manufacturing sites are subject to facture of wood pulp products, includ- amounts.” asbestos to tampons to increase men- inspection by FDA to assure that good ing, historically, menstrual products The FDA pointed to newer bleach- strual bleeding and sell more of their manufacturing practices are being fol- like pads and many types of tampons. ing methods for the wood pulp used in products. The FDA assured the public lowed. Therefore, these inspections Dioxin collects in the fatty tissues of producing rayon for tampons, and it had no evidence of asbestos in tam- would likely identify any procedures animals, and research indicates it can asserted that “[r]ayon raw material pons or of increased menstrual bleed- CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

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Park Slope Food Coop, Brooklyn, NY March 22, 2012  3

Feb 2012 GM bership at 16,200. Plus, we CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 were given a chart titled “Food Moved Since Incorpo- the Vatican and Grand Cen- ration” and as of the end of tral in terms of size and 2011, over its 39 year history, grandeur. It better be nice; the PSFC has sold over $410 the Food Coop is shelling out million dollars worth of $4,000 for the privilege. goods ranging from organic Members were impor- kale to kombucha. Wow. tuned coming and going by And, lest I forget, Allen activists bearing literature. Zimmerman is ill but getting

As bored Reuters writer and better. Get well soon, Allen! MORRISON BY ROD ILLUSTRATION Food Coop member Chad- Janet Schumacher, an effer- wick Matlin pointed out vescent lover of Sri Lankan spend seven cents more for and Tricia Leith presented saying, “I come from a country early in his 50 live tweets, birds and coconuts, filled in two pounds of produce and the second discussion agen- where thieves get points for “The room is tense with pas- with an update on foods. 35 cents more for a pound of da item of the night: banning their creativity. Stamp the sive aggression. Israeli food Clementines from Morocco coffee. From there he pointed the use of personal shopping muslin bags at point of pur- referendum dominates. Free are in, seeds have arrived, and out that landfills are good carts on the shopping floor chase so you can’t keep steal- Oreos given out, but not free peanut butter prices are high. because they sequester car- to try and cut down on theft. ing them.” Hannah won’t be hummus.” His next tweet The environmental com- bons and don’t contribute to They estimate that $250,000 able to stay at the Food Coop noted the first mention of mittee then pulled out the global warming. And finally, of goods are stolen from the without her stroller/shopping fascist food. The fascist food PowerPoint to present their he moved on to the rampant Food Coop each year. That’s cart. She pointed out that, as guy was followed to the recommendation that the bag cloth bag theft that will $700 a day. Apparently, previ- often as not, childcare is at microphone by Yaakov Stern Food Coop vote to eliminate ensue and to the hidden ous anti-theft campaigns capacity and then what are of the boxes squad who plastic roll bag distribution costs of cleaning checkout included a lifeguard chair on you supposed to do. Christian pledged that he’ll go along on the shopping floor. Turns counters from all that wet, the checkout floor to look said that if theft is the main with the ban of Israeli prod- out we use almost 400 plastic messy unbagged produce. down on would-be larcenists. issue then look at that, not the ucts if and when the Coop bags an hour at the Food Daniela was next, propos- But it went unoccupied 85% shopping carts or strollers will consider banning all Coop and spend $22,000 ing a bag share program with of the time because nobody some people depend on. American products. annually on providing them a bin at the front of the store wanted to sit there. Then, the Anton and Christina thought A vote was cast to officially to the membership. The to recycle and reuse bags, Coop instituted a rule that this measure would erode the either muslin or plastic. you had to show your empty higher level of trust members Audrey said she hadn’t used a bags to your checkout work- value. Wendy and Eva said plastic produce bag in 37 ers but that led to cries of that criminalization is nice but years of membership. Kevin racial profiling. There was there’s obviously a problem asked if we could move incre- one other one but I can’t that needs addressing. Sandy mentally to corn-based bags remember. It was good, said the rule should be “trust before eliminating plastic though. In a bad way. but verify” and recommended bag rolls. Janine, lately of Who knew that banning reinstating the show your France, pointed out that personal shopping carts could empty bag/backpack/cart rule. biodegradable bags won’t be such a hot button issue? By this point, I was just work; you may not make it Jewel from Manhattan can’t praying for deliverance and, through checkout before they live without her shopping cart. verily, the GM finally ended fall apart. Presentations Otherwise, she won’t know with rideshare offers and included visual aids showing how much food to get. Alex such. I love us so. Can’t wait that processed bread bags went back to the muslin bags, for next month! ■ are perfectly sized for celery and resealable tortilla bags are great too. Eric pointed out that, like helmet and seatbelt laws, Coop members need to be

PHOTO BY LISA COHEN PHOTO forced to give up the temp- Coop members pack the February GM to talk about plastics tation of plastic roll bags. and theft. Michael asked if instead of getting rid of them, mem- Here’s your chance to be part of the clear the docket so that the temptation is hard to resist bers get charged 25 cents only item on next month’s and should be removed for per bag. Steven also brought May 12 Brooklyn Food Conference and agenda is Israel. But other the sake of the environment, his bag of plastic bags to get FTOP credit as well. than a few comments about social justice and our collec- illustrate how easy it is to Here’s the deal: you go to a training All training sessions will fears for the democratic tive health, we were told plop them in the bottom of session (see dates and times here) take place in the Coop’s process during the open before watching an awesome carrier bags. Janet called on and then you show up at the agreed- second-floor meeting room: forum and a request for vot- black and white silent movie the Food Coop to create a upon time and date for the Conference ing machines from a member explaining how to live with- new work slot of demon- (TBD at the training meeting). When Sunday, April 1, 7 p.m. named Stuart, talk moved out plastic bags. strating how to live without you do your work at the Conference, quickly on to the main event: Members were then invit- plastic roll bags, starring Monday, April 2, 9:30 a.m. ruminating on the evils of ed to come up and weigh in. Janine. It went on. And on. you’ll get FTOP credit for that work as plastic bags and personal It seemed like 90% or more Finally, Mike Eakin took the well as for the training meeting. Tuesday, April 3, 7 p.m. shopping carts. were in favor of the phase-out mic to point out that 161 Before that, though, we but wanted to show off their awesome and recyclable Examples of work: registration, Thursday, April 5, 9:30 a.m. learned from GC Mike Eakin many cool alternatives, plastic roll bags cost each set-up, breakdown, childcare, youth Tuesday, April 17, 9:30 a.m. that the PSFC is RICH! Or including a whole host of member $1.43 per year. activities, expo and workshop would be if we were a for- muslin/cotton options. I’m pretty sure it was at support, building guide, literature Saturday, April 21, 1:30 p.m. profit, anyway. Annual sales Don Wiss was a notable this point in the meeting that distribution, staffing info tables, Sunday, April 22, 7 p.m. for the fiscal year that ended dissenter. He had actually members were starting to lie music performance (we need January 29, 2012, were up to brought his own scale along down on the Beth Elohim musicians all day), logistics, and more! almost $45 million, a rise of to do a cost comparison of ballroom floor and contem- $3 million over the prior year. how much more it would cost plate whether or not such And we have 500 more mem- to check out with an alterna- ugly wallpaper is actually Sign-up sheet for training sessions in Membership Office. bers to kick around than last tive bag. With a large muslin legal in NYC. year too, with current mem- bag, for instance, you’d Moving on, GCs Joe Holtz

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4  March 22, 2012 Park Slope Food Coop, Brooklyn, NY

MEMBER CONTRIBUTION

ing bags are polyethylene in teria present in the reusable that some sort of bacteria Coop’s Plastic Bags Toxic? either the high-density or bags. Of the 84 reusable shop- would break down polyethyl- By Kevin Cunneen the most benign polymer in low-density form: both are ping bags collected from cities ene. He took soil from a land- olyethylene was first pro- its manufacture, use and dis- non-toxic. Betsy Mathisen of in California and Arizona, fill site, strips of polyethylene Pduced in Britain in the posal. It is also recyclable.” Elkay plastics, the manufac- slightly more than half of the bags and a solution to 1930s when it was discovered He said this applies to high- turer of our food processing bags contained coliform bac- encourage bacteria to grow. that ethylene gas (from natur- density bags as well. He con- bags, said the FDA does not teria, which indicates contam- He discovered that two types al gas) could be converted tinued, “The polymer that is allow any additives in poly ination by raw meats or other of bacteria, Sphingomonas into a white solid by heating harmful in its manufacture is bags that come in contact uncooked food products.” The and Pseudomonas, decom- it at very high pressures with PVC or polyvinyl chloride. with food and that Elkay’s researchers detected E. coli posed the plastic. This a little oxygen. I asked Dr. Tim This material is of great con- bags are 100% polyethylene, bacteria in 12 percent of the insight won him the Canada Oswald, co-Director of the cern because it is everywhere: nothing added. bags. Petru further wrote that Wide Science Fair’s highest Polymer Engineering Center siding in people’s houses, There have been some Dr. Charles Gerba, who co- honor and a $10,000 prize. at the University of Wiscon- pipes, electric conduit, elec- reports that reuse of poly bags authored the report, recom- 1986 through 1987 saw the sin-Madison, if the manufac- tric cable coating, shower cur- pose a bacteriologic contami- mends keeping raw meat in a GM go back and forth on pro- turing process of poly-bags tains, beach balls, vinyl seat nation risk. Alexis Petru, staff separate bag that will not be viding bags, or not, charging causes significant health covers in cars, shoe soles, writer for Earth911, wrote of a used to carry vegetables or for them, or not, reversing or environmental harm. He dolls. It is dangerous to the study by the University of Ari- fruits. itself more than once. Coop responded, “The clear pro- workers in its manufacture, it zona and Loma Linda Univer- It is generally assumed members use over 2.5 million duce and other plastic gro- can kill you when burned sity, its findings “that most that plastic bags do not high-density polyethylene cery bags are made of a low (most people die in fires due people who bring their own decompose in landfills and produce/bulk bags. That density polyethylene (PE-LD to PVC fume inhalation) ....” bags to the grocery store don’t that bacteria are not able to amounts to 161 bags per or LDPE). The chemical struc- The Coop’s produce bags, wash or clean them regularly digest these long chain poly- member per year, nearly ture is -CH2-CH2- repeated in food processing wraps and and the researchers also dis- mers. But a 17-year-old from $23,000 for the Coop or $1.43 long chains. This is probably custom-made food process- covered a large number of bac- Waterloo, Ontario thought for each member. ■ MEMBER CONTRIBUTION

orchestrated strategy of dele- ties we should be empower- dialog about what can be BDS: The Non-Solution gitimization against Israel, ing, those employing Pales- done to improve the plight of By Constantine Kaniklidis, Director, through a “movement” born of tinians and Israelis, and Palestinians everywhere, but Progressive Voices for Peace in the Middle East (PVPME), an immoral calculus from the undermines moderate voic- as the forum showed, the Scholars for Peace in the Middle East (SPME) racist and anti-Semitic Durban es for peace in the Middle rejectionist, ideologically Conference and NGO Forum East. Like the other speak- hateful and morally repug- rogressive Voices for of international and human of 2001 where BDS was con- ers, Jasser again spoke to the nant BDS propaganda cam- PPeace in the Middle East, rights law for illegitimate ceived, showing the willful moral hypocrisy of BDS in its paign—a corrosive polluter which I direct, held a forum advantage as a political fabrication of BDS being a monomaniacal and prejudi- of community values and on The Israeli/Palestinian weapon, focused on several response to a “Call” in 2005 cial condemnation of Israel equitable discourse using Conflict Today: Obstacles related themes, noting the from “Palestinian Civil Soci- while silent against wide- anti-peacemaking zero-sum and Opportunities, with a moral hypocrisy of the BDS ety” (N. Erakat, Middle East spread Muslim oppression logic and asymmetric demo- distinguished panel of speak- movement that does not con- Research and Information of fellow Muslims including nization, crowding out voices ers spanning a wide spec- demn or protest the atroci- Project, MERIP Report Palestinians, concluding for moderation and recogni- trum of political opinion. ties of Palestinian human MER255, 2010). She also that joining BDS is wrong tion of conflict complexities Here I provide an encapsula- rights and horrific daily con- exposed the contamination of because (1) it’s the wrong and truncating the space for tion of their views on BDS. ditions perpetrated and sus- any proposed “Call” associat- destination (not peace), (2) equitable engagement—is Michael Walzer, one of our tained by Hamas, Arab states ed as it is with the Council of the wrong vehicle (boycotts), not and cannot be part of foremost political thinkers and corrupt NGOs like National and Islamic Forces in and the wrong leaders that conversation: BDS is bad and an expert on the morality UNRWA that uses Hamas Palestine (first signatory of the (Palestinian leadership). for Israel, bad for Palestini- of war, spoke from the stand- textbooks in their UNRWA “Call”), and with other notori- There should be honest ans, bad for Peace. ■ point of the progressive left, schools that teach blind ous terrorist, jihadist and noting that the overwhelming hatred of all Jew and help extremist groups. Goldstein proportion of the Israeli recruit child suicide bombers concluded that BDS collec- peace movements (Shalom at all ages, a silence that tively itself constitutes a Sudoku Achshav) strongly advise not gives the green light to terror- “racist and unlawful move- to join the BDS boycott ists to continue their human ment” against Israel standing movement, because BDS rights violations against a in violation of Federal and opposes peace and both the callously victimized Palestin- State antiboycott laws pro- existence of a Jewish State ian population. hibiting commercial or other and the internationally Goldstein laid bare, as I discrimination on the basis of endorsed just goal of two have done several times national origin [Disclosure: states for two peoples. Walz- before, the demonstrable anti- this author, C. Kaniklidis, con- er underlined the hypocrisy Israel bias of each of the so- tributed with and on advice of of denying Nation-Statehood called human rights NGOs lawfare and international and to Israel but accepting just and entities such as Human trade law experts, to a sus- that elsewhere, including in Rights Watch, Amnesty Inter- tained refutation of a National any proposed state of Pales- national, the International Lawyers Guild memo mistak- tine. He concluded that BDS is Court of Justice, and the UN enly advising BDS supporters profoundly wrong in its biased General Assembly now wholly otherwise.] opposition focus on Israel, dominated and controlled by Dr. M. Zuhdi Jasser, a finding that the exclusive OIC (Organization of Islamic devout Muslim, founder of focus of its opposition to Cooperation), organizations American Islamic Founda- Israel exhibits “malicious dis- that gave us the vile language tion for Democracy, added crimination” and “is obscene.” and slander of “apartheid,” his voice to the same true Brooke Goldstein, Director and “ethnic cleansing” and underlying objective of BDS, of the Lawfare Project, and a other libels via complete the “obliteration of the State human rights lawyer and abuse and distortion of inter- of Israel,” further noting that Puzzle author: JaJamesmes Vasile. ForFor answers, seesee pagepage 6.xx. expert on lawfare, the abuse national law, a cold and BDS punishes the very enti-

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Park Slope Food Coop, Brooklyn, NY March 22, 2012  5

Flower Power tise cannot be overlooked. When I asked Emily if she Emily shuns the “tortured give me free reign and an

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 Whether it’s a grand wedding longed for a flower section at plastic designs” that have open budget,” says Emily. It or the White House, the mas- the Coop, she said it really become so prevalent in appears the locavore move- ded moss and bulbs on the sive projects she manages all didn’t make sense, “It works florists’ windows opting for ment has hit the flower mar- stones to create mini floral have many moving parts. If the when the occasional flowers more sophisticated natural- ket. Artists like Emily are vignettes that nestled at the Coop could ever tap into her come in from local farms we istic creations. Instead of making it more beautiful bases of the trees, windows organizational skills, the already work with.” So if buying a tightly wound bou- than ever to create seasonal- and fireplaces. With a relative- queue for checkout might be you’re interested in her quet of perfect roses ly and locally sourced flower ly simple color palette, Emily less daunting. designs, the best bet is to wrapped in a bow, you’ll like- arrangements that bring the interpreted the season in a When she’s not busy visit her shop on Jay Street in ly engage the artist in a con- best of the outdoor world glorious and fresh way. designing her flower installa- Brooklyn near the DUMBO versation about what is into the home. ■ In addition to Vermont tions, you’ll spot her at the neighborhood. currently available and what rocks, Emily also brought a bit Coop as a regular shopper. But don’t pop in looking type of space you are trying For more information visit of Brooklyn. After a severe Since she and her husband for a $15 bunch of tulips. to enhance. “My best clients www.emilythompsonflowers.com. October windstorm, Emily live a block from the Coop, stumbled upon some felled they pop in several times a sweet gum pods in Prospect week to stock up on fresh food. Menstrual Products from sound ecologically managed producers.” Park. The pods were trans- Since there isn’t a Coop CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 Natracare claims “All products are totally formed into garland and flower department, Emily chlorine free and women can be reassured by draped over mirrors in the spends her shifts in Food Pro- that would expose tampons products to the fact that Natracare does not contain any East Room of the White cessing working the cheese asbestos.” synthetic materials or any chemical additives House. Emily calls the job line. Similar to her floral such as surfactants, fragrances, dyes, or lubri- “one of the most amazing designs that embraces sea- Toxic Shock Syndrome cants. Choosing only fully certified organic experiences…we put in 16- sonality, when it comes to Growing numbers of reported cases of cotton removes the risk of direct exposure to hour days with no stopping… food Emily likes to shop for staphylococcal toxic shock syndrome (TSS) residues from chemical pesticides, fertilizers, it was so meaningful and such what is locally available. “The throughout 1980 resulted in the well-publi- defoliants and fungicides commonly used on a weirdly patriotic experience.” quality is incredible at the cized recall of super-absorbent Rely tam- conventionally grown cotton.” While Emily has a keen eye Coop,” says Emily, “better pons and the awareness that in general, Natracare also manufactures organic cotton for design, her logistical exper- than the farmers’ market.” higher-absorbency tampons can increase wet wipes that it advertises are “made from the risk of TSS. organic and natural plant derived ingredients” Super-absorbent tampons have been impli- without foaming agents including sodium lauryl LOOKING FOR MEMBERS cated in cases of toxic shock syndrome. Symp- sulfate, or preservatives such as phenoxyethanol. TO FILL A NEW WORKSLOT toms can set in quickly, and commonly include The company’s natural credentials include a high fever, vomiting, diar- eschewing perfumes, lubri- rhea, rash, and drop in blood cants, plastics and synthetics. pressure. Toxic shock syn- Products are biodegradable drome requires immediate and packed in recycled card- medical attention and is board boxes. potentially life-threatening, Maxim products, also sold On January 31 participants in the General as it may lead to kidney and at the Coop, are made of Meeting overwhelmingly approved the Coop’s liver failure. hypoallergenic organic cot- new Revolving Loan Program. This initiative Various sources (and ton. Maxim is viscose- and allows the Coop and our individual members to required package inserts) chlorine-free, advertising that suggests one can lower the those features “reduce the donate money into a fund that will make loans to risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome WASSYLENKO BY CATHY ILLUSTRATION risk of irritation and allergy.” start-up coops using the PSFC model. by avoiding tampons of high- The Coop also carries As part of that resolution, a committee will be er absorbency than needed, changing tam- Kotex products. Consumer Reports states formed to develop, oversee and report on the pons frequently, alternating tampons with that in late 2011, two specific lots of Kotex loan program. We have begun the committee pads during one’s period and avoiding use of Natural Balance Security Unscented Tam- selection process, which involves an interview for tampons overnight. pons Regular Absorbency manufactured by those who express interest and a vote for candi- To help people compare absorbency from Kimberly-Clark were recalled because brand to brand, the FDA requires manufactur- they were made with raw materials contami- dates at a future GM, probably in April or May. ers to disclose absorbency using a standard nated with Enterobacter sakazakii, a bacteri- method and standardized terms: “junior,” “reg- um that may cause vaginal infections, Committee members must: ular,” “super” and “super plus.” urinary tract infections, pelvic inflammatory 1. Agree to be interviewed by the program diseases or other health issues. Though Fragranced Products there were no reports of illness caused by the developers, Joe Holtz and Rachel Porter; It seems fairly clear that fragranced prod- tainted tampons, the FDA noted that the 2. Be able to attend monthly meetings; ucts are, as sanitaryproducts.co.uk puts it, bacterium could be especially dangerous to 3. Be willing to do additional work (beyond 2.75 “completely superfluous and generate women with preexisting illnesses or compro- hours/four weeks) as needed; unnecessary additional exposure to synthet- mised immune systems. ■ 4. Be committed to the loan program; and, ic chemicals.” 5. Have expertise in a relevant area, such as non- What Is That? How Do I Use It? profit management, finance and lending, coop Natracare The Coop carries the development, grocery store management, law. Natracare line of organic Ask Me Questions Committee members will receive work credit. pads and products, which advertises that it “reduce[s] About Coop Foods Once the interviews are completed, contact with chlorine bleached materials, and also all candidates seeking committee placement will Monday, April 2, 12 to 12:45 p.m. products containing syn- Friday, April 6, 8 to 10:45 a.m. write a statement to be published in the thetics, latex and super Linewaiters’ Gazette, and will stand for a vote at absorbents made from Monday, April 9, 12 to 12:45 p.m. a General Meeting. petrochemicals. Natracare Tuesday, April 10, 9:15 a.m. to 12 p.m. products are made from cer- You can join in any time during a To sign up for an interview, please send tified organic and natural, question-and-answer session a statement of interest and your resume plant-derived materials that are chemical and additive on the shopping floor. to [email protected] free, and biodegradable, con- and we will contact you. taining only organic and nat- Look for tour leaders in produce aisle. ural ingredients sourced

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6  March 22, 2012 Park Slope Food Coop, Brooklyn, NY

MEMBER CONTRIBUTION VALET BIKE PARKING More Great Reasons to IS HERE Reject the Boycott Movement ON SUNDAYS! By Jesse Rosenfeld education. All they call for is punishment of he boycott activists are… Israel. Think about these folks as the public T face of the Coop. 1. …not pro-Coop business. Not one letter 4. …not pro-peace. Their website is mute on or web article they have ever written men- suicide bombings, rocket attacks and open Every Sunday, April 1–November 18, tions how a boycott will improve our alliances with state sponsors of terror. Think from 3:30–8 p.m., finances and operations or benefit the envi- about the PSFC’s image as we support a move- Coop members can leave their bikes with ronment. The movement’s activists focus on ment that supports violence with silence. our valet parking service, which is like joining political organizations unrelated to a coat check for bikes. Working members will 5. …NOT HONEST. food production or the environment. Co- The boycott crew’s website check in and watch your bike for you. ops nationwide reject them on several claims the Presbyterian Church supports boy- grounds and so should we. cotts. The Presbyterian General Assembly Just drop off your bike, stroller, scooter or accepted boycotting in 2004 but rejected it in personal cart, do your shopping or your shift, 2. …not loyal to PSFC, but to an outside organi- 2006 (long before any boycott website went up and hop back on. zation’s agenda. The boycott activists are taking regarding the PSFC), and has made statements guidance and support from a larger organiza- of rejection as late as 2011. Should the Coop No locks, no worries, no theft. tion unconcerned with PSFC. Voting for a boy- accept and then later reject this nonsensical Service operates rain or shine. cott exposes the PSFC to lawsuits (like at the agenda, our name will remain on thousands of Look for us in front of the yellow wall. Olympia Food Coop) where the boycotter orga- websites. (Note: no bike check-in after 7:30 p.m.) nization remains unscathed. If we vote against a boycott, we keep our integrity. WANT TO BE PRO-COOP? PRO-PEACE? Valet bicycle parking at the Coop PRO-FACTS? REJECT BDS! is brought to you by the PSFC 3. …not pro-Palestinian. Search their website: Stopbdsparkslope.blogspot.com. StopBDSparkslope@ Shop & Cycle Committee. No reconciliation, no institution building, no gmail.com. ■ MEMBER CONTRIBUTION

Defend Coop Democracy and Human Rights on 3/27 impact it has… It indicates a situation of business as usual By Liz Roberts ronmental and social justice. tics,” we respond that Coop themselves… Palestinians and the message that Israel n Tuesday, March 27, BDS is part of this larger move- membership associates you subjected to Israel’s system receives from that…is that it Omembers attending the ment. The Coop has never been with an institution whose oper- of apartheid and colonial can continue to deny Palestini- General Meeting will vote on “neutral” regarding other ations are based in social jus- oppression.[...] ans their rights without worry- whether the Coop will con- sociopolitical issues that affect tice philosophies. Grappling “… Palestinians are not ing about American pressure. duct a referendum on partici- our inventory. We’ve observed with environmental and naive enough to think that the On the other hand, a show of pating in “BDS.” BDS (boycott, many boycotts. Our current human rights issues—plastic American government, which solidarity in respecting the divestment, and sanctions) choice to buy Israeli products is bag usage; GMOs; workers on finances their subjugation, will Palestinian call for boycott refers to the international a political one, and it alienates strike—that touch on our buy- support their liberation. How- empowers the oppressed peo- nonviolent campaign to pres- many members. ing practices is why we shop ever they are aware of the ple in their struggle. This kind sure Israel to stop violating Boycotts are a powerful and work here and don’t simply capacity of the American public of support sustains Palestini- Palestinians’ human rights tool. Joining this movement go to a buying club. to oppose the policies of their ans in their daily struggles and and international law. says to Israel: “We, as a com- Beyond human rights, injus- government and are appealing gives hope to the popular The 3/27 proposal doesn’t munity, ask you to respect tice in Israel/Palestine is a to U.S. civil society to follow struggle for Palestinian rights.” decide the issue itself, merely human rights and abide by food-justice issue. Israel appro- the inspiring examples of earli- Attend the March 27 GM the method by which we’ll international law and your priates the most arable land. er American movements. [...] and vote yes to referendum. decide. Referendum protects own professed democratic Significantly unequal distribu- “We urge you to live up to Allow every member a voice privacy and allows time for principles.” Individuals refus- tion of water leaves Palestini- the principles of the …Coop’s in whether we will show this reflection and education free ing to buy Israeli goods cannot ans reliant on a contaminated mission statement which solidarity. from the pressures of the GM. send this message. Boycotts aquifer. The Israeli military and states that: ‘We seek to avoid Rebecca Giordano It’s the most democratic are effective due to the settlers have illegally destroyed products that depend on the Phan Nguyen method available to us, granti- strength of collective action. or confiscated a million olive exploitation of others.’ The sell- Liz Roberts ng each member a voice, ensur- Israel’s superior military trees, depriving Palestinians of ing of Israeli products means Tara Tabassi ing that the results represent maintains an imbalance of agricultural revenue. more than the economic Carol Wald ■ the position of the majority of power between Israel and The BDS campaign at the our Coop community. Con- Palestinians. Peace cannot be Coop recently received public versely, we cannot know the true achieved through diplomacy support from Boycott from will of the membership on this and dialogue if the two sides Within, a group of Israeli citi- issue without a referendum. are on unequal footing. Boy- zens who support the BDS call. Refusing a referendum is cotting is a time-honored The full statement is at divisive and invalidates the method of nonviolently pres- www.boycottisrael.info and feelings of those members suring oppressive regimes to reads in part: harmed or disturbed by change. The U.S., Israel’s “The decision to stop selling Israel’s actions. Adhering to biggest supporter, sends more Israeli products in your co-op democratic process in deter- financial aid there than to any should be seen in line with the mining the Coop’s position other country, making this co-op’s decision to stop selling on BDS can serve as a model issue something that all Ameri- California grapes in solidarity for our larger regional and can taxpayers should care with the United Farm-workers global communities. about resolving. Union, and boycotting prod- The Coop is a political insti- To members saying, “I ucts from Apartheid South- tution by definition, founded belong to the Coop so I can get Africa. As in these cases, and nourished by the larger inexpensive organic produce the call to boycott Israel comes movement for economic, envi- and don’t come here for poli- from the oppressed people

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Park Slope Food Coop, Brooklyn, NY March 22, 2012  7 Candidates for Board of Directors of the Park Slope Food Coop, Inc. Three spots on the Board are open. Two of the openings are three-year terms. The third spot is a one-year term. To vote you may use a proxy or attend the Food Coop Annual Meeting on June 26, 2012. Every member will receive a proxy package in the mail in late May. You will have the opportunity to meet the candidates at the Annual Meeting. Candidate Statements (unedited and presented in alphabetical order):

Monique Bowen but mostly identify as a recovering cashier who cur- that Board members must be able to discern when rently enjoys office work, but I am also trained as a the advice of the membership might endanger the Dear Fellow Members: With the childcare worker, an attendance recorder, and as a fiscal or legal health of cooperative and thus must be support of the General Coordi- member of the Hearing Officers Committee. able to make decisions accordingly. nators, I write to ask for your I think I make a sensible choice for the Board of In my life outside of the Coop, I have worked for support of my candidacy for an Directors as I am 1) a reasonable person who listens twenty years at nonprofit and educational institu- open seat on the PSFC’s Board well, 2) able to acknowledge the will of the member- tions in NYC and CT, have earned post-graduate of Directors. ship without first prefacing my own opinions and degrees in psychology, and have a great deal of expe- My family has been Coop perspectives, and 3) clear about the role of a Director rience working one-on-one and in groups to solve members since 2003, and our at the Coop as voting to approve what the member- problems, to mediate conflicts, and to counsel oth- relationship to the Coop has ship has decided as opposed to what my own wishes ers as they make important life and professional been an important aspect of our might be. Generally speaking, I have attended a num- decisions. I take a calm, thoughtful, commonsense lives in Brooklyn. Even my children consider that ber of General Meetings over the years and appreci- approach to most things and try to collaborate with monthly trip to childcare for their father’s shift to be ate that those gathered tend to abide by this same others whenever possible. Thank you and I hope to their work slot, too! I have had many jobs at the Coop working model. That being said I also understand have your support. ■

Audrey Miller Komaroff was the first cashier trainer. I was one of the for many years, I would like to continue for anoth- twelve people who excavated and started the er three years. I’m Audrey Miller Komaroff, I "Garden of Union." When the Coop expanded Fri- I value the General Meetings and the expertise currently sit on the Board of day shopping hours, I became a squad leader on of the General, Receiving and Office Coordina- Directors. I've been a Coop the first 8:00 a.m. shift. tors. I wholeheartedly believe in the cooperative member since 1975, and I've I have been a positive and cooperative member spirit where each person gives of themselves for happily seen the Coop grow through all our changes in the last 37 years. The the benefit of the whole. The core beliefs of the from 400 members to its pre- General Meetings opened my eyes to our policy Coop have made it strong and prosperous. I'm sent size of over 16,000. making procedures, and I've enjoyed them. The sure these shared ideals will serve it well in the I've always gone where I Coop is a very unique and successful venture that future. My candidacy is endorsed by the General felt the Coop needed me. I I love being a part of. Having served on the board Coordinators. ■

Eunju Lee rently working as a hospice social worker. My current Coop and believe it is now time for me to give back. work shift is to haul and process compost from the This is why I am seeking a position as a member of I joined the Park Slope Food Coop to the Red Hook Farm. Because of my long and the Coop's Board of Directors. Coop soon after moving to Park varied relationship with the Coop, I feel I have a As a member of the Board, my main function will Slope in 1994. It was also the breadth and depth of knowledge about the Coop, its be to listen to the membership and to ensure the year I became pregnant with my mission and values, staff and membership. As a Coop's vitality in a manner that is consistent with first child and, as every Park Membership Coordinator, I had many opportunities its founding values. Unlike other boards, our Board Slope mother knows, the Coop to hear both praises and profanities about the Coop of Directors is not and should not be an insulated is synonymous with healthy from the membership. Serving on the Board will body of stakeholders. Rather, the Board functions child. But, the Coop is more again give me access to the voices of the member- to gather the diverse voices of our members, to than a place that provides ship and allow me to respond accordingly. This is thoughtfully weigh differences, to seek cooperation “Good Food at Low Prices.” For why I am seeking a position as a member of the and respectful dissent, and to articulate positions 18 years, I have had the privilege and delight of mem- Coop's Board of Directors. with circumspection and reason. As a social worker, bership in a like-minded community. And just as my The Coop has changed dramatically since 1994. I I am often required to suspend my opinions in son has grown to a mature 17 year-old, my relation- recall the dust and havoc of construction as we order to really hear the other person. I have learned ship with the Coop has deepened and matured. This expanded. As the square footage of the shopping how to be comfortable in conflict and the impor- is why I am seeking a position as a member of the floor grew, so has the membership. Despite these tance of a measured response. I hold a Master's Coop's Board of Directors. changes, the core of the Coop remains a community degree in social work and another in organizational Initially, I was an FTOP worker, doing shifts in of people who believe in the values of working for our development—assets I would bring to my role as a shopping, receiving, childcare and the office. In 2000, food, in looking forward seven generations when board member. I joined the staff of the Coop as a Membership Coor- making consumption choices, and in building inclu- My candidacy has been endorsed by the General dinator. I worked in this position for seven years. Five sive local communities. I am proud to be a part of Coordinators of the Coop and I welcome that sup- years ago, I left to pursue other passions and am cur- these wider values. I have reaped the benefits of the port. I would be honored to have yours. ■

Timothy Platt and as FTOP, and I continue to do so. I currently responsibility to my work shifts in receiving, and to work receiving shifts for my wife, am on the GM my committee participation and I have always Why I am running for reelection Chair Committee, and since this past November brought this to the Food Coop when in any way work- to the Coop Board. I have been and its special election I have served on the Board ing with other members. a member of the Park Slope too. I look for ways to be involved and where I can I have served the Food Coop and its members in Food Coop for 18 years and over make a positive difference. other ways in the past, to share some more of my the course of that time I have That much primarily says something about the history here. I, for example, joined and became come to see this, our shared What of my being a Food Coop member and a mem- deputy chair of the committee that updated and community as very special and ber of its Board. But my purpose in writing this letter codified the rules for the General Meetings, and very important in my life. I was to the Gazette is to say something as to Why I am on with one goal—to insure that those meetings are first introduced to the Coop by the Board and why I would seek reelection to it. That as representative of member thought and opinion my wife when we first met. She is definitely not for work slot credit as I go to every as possible and to give every member as much of a introduced me to her favorite people and to her GM anyway, and I am already receiving work credit for voice in the Coop and its running as they wish to favorite places. The Food Coop was one of those spe- my Chair Committee participation there. There are share. That is how I participate in the Coop at our cial places that she brought me to as she did her own no double credits for both Chair Committee and store. It is how I participate in our Coop General food shopping here. I joined too and have been Board participation. I do this because this gives me Meetings, and both as a Coop member and as a actively involved ever since. greater opportunity to be actively involved in the member of the Chair Committee and that is how I I have worked in a wide range of jobs at the Coop as a positive, supportive voice. function as a Board member. If reelected I will Coop, and both as a member of regular work shifts I bring that same approach and that same sense of CONTINUED ON PAGE 8

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8  March 22, 2012 Park Slope Food Coop, Brooklyn, NY Candidates for Board of Directors of the Park Slope Food Coop, Inc.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

Timothy Platt, that my wife and I live at, as well as serving in importantly I ask that you feel free to walk up CONTINUED other board positions. My goal as an officer and and speak with me as I do want to hear about continue to do so as well. board member there has also always been about the issues that concern you and I do want to I will add that I come to this with extensive out- giving every member a voice and an opportunity to know and understand your perspective and side board experience. I have served five years as participate. experience as a fellow member of this, our Park President of the board at the housing cooperative I ask you for your vote. But perhaps more Slope Food Coop. ■

Jesse T. Rosenfeld blocks away. I spend a lot of time here, just as a each and every one of us as a Coop member. shopper alone. I like being part of an organization Having worked officially so far with mostly My name is Jesse Rosenfeld that is a standard-bearer for food and environ- products, I felt a pull this time to involve myself and I am running for the mental justice. more with people. Board. I have demonstrably worked for our cooperative The previous Secretary was a member of the A member since 2004, I spirit where everyone gives their efforts towards Board and I would like to follow in that Coop tra- have worked as cashier, 2nd the benefit of shared success. We’re strong and dition, to ensure that there will be a Board mem- floor guest registration, prosperous, and I want to see that continue. ber and the Secretary at every GM. cheese and olive bagger, FTOP I will stay in touch with membership issues in I see the need for Board members to be alert to stock boy, and babysitter for the following manner: I’ll be attending every GM the legal and fiduciary responsibilities of the the PSFC. Plus a graphics anyway as secretary, I will read the Gazette, I will Coop, and to make these clear to Coordinators artist for the Lefferts Food stay in touch with General Coordinators, and and the general membership. Coop (work still pending approval). My outside board members, plus of course, stay in touch with I see the Board’s role as one of oversight and profession is in the IT industry where I am a con- the floor membership by listening to fellow mem- financial responsibility rather than one of advocacy. sultant for the City of New York, and help social bers and their concerns. I hope that I would have When the Board of Directors vote, I will always workers and directors operate a paperless office time during my shopping hours to stop and talk to base my decision to the best of my ability on crite- system. people who have such concerns. I also intend to ria that are no different from any other board I am also secretary for PSFC, I won in a land- be familiar with our monthly financial statements. member. slide as I was the only one to volunteer my ser- I’ve demonstrated additional concern for the Will a proposal ratified by the General Meeting vices. Coop by joining the anti-hydrofracking movement put the financial and legal health of the Coop at My attendance record is up to date and I am a which opposes upstate gas drilling and is proven risk? frequent attendant to GMs without needing them toxic to water supplies and agriculture that sup- Does the proposal violate the spirit and letter as a make up. I attend because I love the Coop and port the businesses from whom we buy our goods, of the Coop’s own by-laws or NYS articles of incor- want it to run as efficiently as possible. not to mention our own drinking water right here poration, and our own mission statement? I repeat, I love it here. The Coop is an important in Brooklyn downstream from the drilling. The Thank you for taking a few minutes and I look part of my life, even more so since I live only three issue is not black and white, but it directly affects forward to your vote. ■

Albert Solomon sion that has been doing a lot of damage to our and that's why I called this piece "Divine Right of self-respect as people who expect to participate in Queens and Kings." In my letters I've been asking decisions of our beloved Co-Op. They think that a Is there a great number of small groups where for a shout-out: Do U think I town-meeting form of government is appropriate members can talk together at length and in depth should run for the Board of to a large, anonymous, urban, decentralized orga- and have spokespeople attend the general meet- Directors this year or not? I'm nization like ours. MMmmmm, yes it is a recog- ings with their concerns in mind? Nope. We have a sure that most of my loyal nized form of government but if it's so good why single meeting once a month at 7 p.m. on a Tues- supporters would say Yes, but isn't it used in cities, states, and nations? Why do day for three hours only where a very limited num- still I'd soooo appreciate we have the City Council when we can all go to a ber of people can speak who are chosen by the hearing from you—see my meeting at Madison Square Garden (or the Mead- Chair. That seems OK, right? EMail and phone below. owlands—or both!) once a month for three hours Well I'm not recommending pure anarcho-syn- Yes, it's been seventeen and make all our decisions? Nice idea, huh? And dicalism but I do hope you'll notice something years and many letters rejected by the Gazette it’s SSSssoooo attractive to anarchists becos, of that has some of the same features. It's called rep- since I first started protesting about our deeply course, there are no representatives. We represent resentative democracy! Not perfect but a lot bet- disturbing "government" and I'm certainly tired of ourselves, right? Isn’t that wonderful—what could ter than what we've got. I think people would feel it but still I go on . . . How do you feel about the be wrong with that? a lot better about the Co-Op if they could elect Co-Op (note my own personal spelling)? Do you Well I don't mean to burst your bubble but I've someone who shared their views, their politics, think a change in government could do anything even spoken to anarchists who don't think much their race, their religion, their veganism, their to help us? If U do, vote for me. If U don't, vote for of this. You see, anarchism isn't just a simple idea kashruth or—whatever they wanted to express as me anyway as I'm a nice guy. I'll be putting a video that boils down to no representatives, it's really members. And to whom they could talk and about statement up on Youtube shortly—just search for quite well-developed. Look at Occupy Wall whose votes they would know. Our meetings are "solomonbod" and you should find it. Use the Street—we see that one aspect of anarchism is anonymous—even though people go to them. quotation marks. Also if U wanna see a quite love- that groups be leaderless. Is our hierarchy of area How do we do that? It's magic, folks! ly piano recital, search for "Tschudy" and look for coordinators and general coordinators and the You want to know what I would do as a director. "Richard Tschudy plays Scriabin." And search for $10,000-plus coordinator (Mr. Holtz) leaderless? I would be a busy bee! I would do everything to "victory in court Juanita" to see a 4 min video of No. Are all or most of our members knowledge- oppose the current Deceptarchy and urge repre- which I'm proud. I'm not approved by the Manage- able and concerned and take an active part in our sentation. ment and I'm quite proud of that! affairs? No. Do we have different people in differ- Luv u. Not that the Management are a bunch of ent leadership posts at different times? No, in fact Serving you as always, I remain— scoundrels but they've been supporting a delu- we have a near-hereditary corps of top managers, albert ■

The Role of the Board members shall be known as the General Meet- The Election Process Members who have a current member- From our inception in 1973 to the present, the ing.... The members who gather to give advice to Each year the Coop must, by law, hold an ship as of Saturday, June 16, 2012, are eli- monthly General Meeting has been the deci- the directors may choose to vote in order to Annual Meeting. This is the only meeting gible to vote in the election of Directors sion-making body of the Coop. Since the express their support or opposition for any of the where proxies can be used. Those members at the Annual Meeting either in person or Coop incorporated in 1977, we have been issues that have come before the meeting.” who cannot attend the Annual Meeting may by proxy. legally required to have a board of Directors. The Board of Directors conducts a vote at be represented, if they wish, by a proxy. Proxy packets are mailed to members in The Bylaws of the Park Slope Food Coop state: the end of every General Meeting on whether If you submit a proxy but come to the late-May. If you do not receive a packet, pick “The portion of the Board of Directors meeting to accept the advice of the members as Annual Meeting in person, your proxy will be one up at the entrance desk or outside the that is devoted to receiving the advice of the expressed in their vote(s) during the GM. returned to you when you register. Membership Office. ■

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Park Slope Food Coop, Brooklyn, NY March 22, 2012  9

COORDINATOR’S CORNER Vote ‘No’ to Vote COOP at the March 27 General Meeting

By Joe Holtz, cal issue is causing; b) previ- at General Meetings, where General Coordinator and Coop Co-founder ous boycotts at the Coop an open exchange of ideas he March 27 GM agenda item calls for us to vote on authorizing a ref- have usually passed by more and problem-solving solu- erendum on joining the BDS (Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions) move- than 90% approval, with a tions are aired, has helped T few still over 80% approval; to insure the Coop’s success ment. I, along with many other members, have erroneously or lazily or we should not want to and is a better path to our unthinkingly been phrasing the issue at hand as a proposed referendum address an issue that obvi- sustainability than the rea- on a “Boycott” of Israeli products. But it is not. This agenda item is ously will not get similar soning that exalts overusing overwhelming support and; referendums. whether the Coop joins or does not join a political movement. The only c) if the boycott is approved, I hope you go back and movement we are in is the cooperative movement. I strongly believe that it will directly contradict our read the entire article and as a cooperative we should keep it that way. long history of welcoming see all my points. And all who participate coopera- please remember that Autonomy and indepen- are being asked to join a points in my March 8 article: tively by causing many autonomy and indepen- dence are covered in the movement and the move- a) we should recognize the members to feel unwel- dence are core principles of International Cooperative ment—not Coop members— divisiveness that this politi- come; d) making decisions the coop movement. ■ Principle # 4: “Cooperatives decides which products to are autonomous, self-help boycott, even products made organizations controlled by here in the USA. The B for The International Cooperative Alliance their members. If they enter Boycott is one thing, but the into agreements with other D for Divestment and the S Statement of Cooperative Identity (The Statement of Cooperative Identity has its origins in a published set of “practices” of the Rochdale Society of organizations, including for Sanctions also represent Equitable Pioneers in 1844 and later became known as the Rochdale Principles. It was eventually renamed governments, or raise capi- a vote on giving up some of and has been periodically updated by the International Cooperative Alliance.) tal from external sources, our autonomy. It must be they do so on terms that either the “D” or the “S” that ensure democratic control provided the rationale for a Definition: usually common property of the cooperative. by their members and main- group’s decision to boycott A cooperative is an autonomous associa- They usually receive limited compensation, tain their co-operative a line products from the tion of persons united voluntarily to meet if any, on capital subscribed as a condition of autonomy.” USA. The vagueness and the their common economic, social, and cultural membership. Members allocate surpluses If we join the BDS move- broadness is a problem. needs and aspirations through a jointly for any or all of the following purposes: ment we are endorsing, in Because we don’t under- owned and democratically controlled enter- developing the cooperative, possibly by set- each of our names, all stand what we are being prise. ting up reserves, part of which at least would aspects of that movement asked to join, it is better not be indivisible, benefiting members in pro- we don’t have control over. to consider a vote on join- Values: portion to their transactions with the coop- We aren’t simply boycotting ing. As a cooperative we Cooperatives are based on the values of erative, and supporting other activities as a few items on our shelves. should not so easily give up self-help, self-responsibility, democracy, approved by the membership. We violate principle #4— our democratic control. equality, equity, and solidarity. In the tradi- remaining an “autonomous, Autonomy and indepen- tion of their founders, cooperative members Fourth Principle: self-help organization con- dence, principle #4, it makes believe in the ethical values of honesty, Autonomy and Independence trolled by its members.” sense. openness, social responsibility and caring Cooperatives are autonomous, self-help In my quick research try- Voting “Coop” (i.e., “No”) is for others. organizations controlled by their members. ing to understand this best for the future of our If they enter into agreements with other movement, I found a group Coop, regardless of one’s Principles: organizations, including governments, or in California which has viewpoint on the troubling The cooperative principles are guidelines raise capital from external sources, they do joined BDS and they are situation in the Middle East. by which cooperatives put their values into so on terms that ensure democratic control boycotting Sabra products, For more reasons to vote practice. by their members and maintain their cooper- a very popular group of “No” on the referendum, ative autonomy. products in the Coop. Sabra please refer to my March 8, First Principle: was manufactured locally 2012 Gazette article (available Voluntary and Open Membership Fifth Principle: here in NY until they moved online at foodcoop.com, Cooperatives are voluntary organizations, Education, Training and Information a few hundred miles south page 5). open to all persons able to use their services Cooperatives provide education and to Richmond, Virginia. We A summary of the main and willing to accept the responsibility of training for their members, elected represen- membership, without gender, social, racial, tatives, managers, and employees so they political or religious discrimination. can contribute to the development of their cooperatives. They inform the general pub- Second Principle: lic—particularly young people and opinion Democratic Member Control leaders—about the nature of benefits of Cooperatives are democratic organiza- cooperation. tions controlled by their members, who actively participate in setting their policies Sixth Principle: and making decisions. Men and women serv- Cooperation Among Cooperatives Have you moved? ing as elected representatives are account- Cooperatives serve their members most Changed your phone number? able to the membership. In primary effectively and strengthen the cooperative cooperatives members have equal voting movement by working together through Got a new email address? rights (one member, one vote) and coopera- local, national, regional and international Drop by or call the tives at other levels are organized in a demo- structures. Membership Office to update cratic manner. your contact information. Seventh Principle: Third Principle: Concern for the Community 718-622-0560 Member Economic Participation While focusing on member needs, coop- Thanks for helping us keep our Members contribute equitably to, and eratives work for the sustainable develop- records up to date! democratically control, the capital of the ment of their communities through policies cooperative. At least part of that capital is accepted by their members.

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10  March 22, 2012 Park Slope Food Coop, Brooklyn, NY

COOP HOURS Friday A monthly musical fundraising partnership of Office Hours: Apr 20 the Park Slope Monday through Thursday Food Coop and 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. 8:00 p.m. the Brooklyn Society Friday & Saturday for Ethical Culture 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Shopping Hours: Monday–Friday 8:00 a.m. to 10:00* p.m. Saturday 6:00 a.m. to 10:00* p.m. Sunday 6:00 a.m. to 7:30* p.m. Annie Keating *Shoppers must be on a checkout line The Village Voice raves, “Keating is a wise mix of Lucinda Williams 15 minutes after closing time. songwriting, Gillian Welch guitar and a vocal all her own…a cross Childcare Hours: between Willie Nelson and John Prine and you don‘t get any better Monday through Sunday than that.” Keating appeared live on the BBC Radio (UK) Bob Harris 8:00 a.m. to 8:45 p.m. show and has gone on to perform at leading festivals, playing on the Telephone: bill with the likes of John Hiatt, Dan Bern, Boris McCutcheon, Shannon 718-622-0560 Web address: McNally. On her fourth (new) album release, Water Tower View, Keating www.foodcoop.com is at her best, delivering beautifully crafted songs.

John Mettam & Flying Home The joint will be jumpin’ with Flying Home, a killer-diller band led by drummer John Mettam, performing the music of the Benny Goodman The Linewaiters’ Gazette is published biweekly by the Park Slope Food Coop, Inc., 782 Union Street, Brooklyn, New York 11215. Sextet and other classics from the Swing Era. Cut a rug or sit back and enjoy this finger poppin’ jive session with Michael McGinnis (clarinet), Opinions expressed here may be solely the views of the writer. The Gazette will not knowingly publish articles that are racist, sexist, or oth- Tom Beckham (vibes), Sean Moran (guitar), Brian Drye (trombone), and erwise discriminatory. Jim Whitney (bass), plus special guest singer Toby Williams. The Gazette welcomes Coop-related articles, and letters from members. SUBMISSION GUIDELINES All submissions must include author’s name and phone number and conform to the following guidelines. Editors will reject letters and 53 Prospect Park West [at 2nd Street] • $10 • 8:00 p.m. [doors open at 7:45] articles that are illegible or too long. Submission deadlines appear Performers are Park Slope Food Coop members and receive Coop workslot credit. in the Coop Calendar opposite. Booking: Bev Grant, 718-788-3741 Letters: Maximum 500 words. All letters will be printed if they conform to the guidelines above. The Anonymity and Fairness policies appear on the letters page in most issues. Voluntary Articles: Maximum 750 words. Editors will reject articles This Issue Prepared By: that are essentially just advertisements for member businesses and Monthly on the... Coordinating Editors: Stephanie Golden services. Last Sunday March 25 R Erik Lewis Committee Reports: Maximum 1,000 words. 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Editor (development): Wally Konrad Editor-Writer Guidelines: Except for letters to the editor, which Second Saturday Tom Moore are published without editing but are subject to the Gazette letters April 14 E policy regarding length, anonymity, respect, and fairness, all 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Reporters: Nicole Feliciano submissions to the Linewaiters' Gazette will be reviewed and if Hayley Gorenberg Third Thursday necessary edited by the editor. In their review, editors are guided April 19 Allison Pennell by the Gazette's Fairness and Anonymity policies as well as stan- 7:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m C dard editorial practices of grammatical review, separation of fact Art Director (development): Mike Miranda from opinion, attribution of factual statements, and rudimentary On the sidewalk in front of the receiving area at the Coop. Illustrator: Cathy Wassylenko fact checking. Writers are responsible for the factual content of Rod Morrison their stories. Editors must make a reasonable effort to contact Y and communicate with writers regarding any proposed editorial Photographers: Lisa Cohen changes. Writers must make a reasonable effort to respond to Kevin Ryan and be available to editors to confer about their articles. If there PLASTIC S is no response after a reasonable effort to contact the writer, an What plastics do we accept? Traffic Manager: Barbara Knight editor, at her or his discretion, may make editorial changes to a Thumbnails: Rose Unes submission without conferring with the writer. Until further notice: • #1 and #6 type non-bottle shaped contain- L Photoshop: Adam Segal-Isaacson Submissions on Paper: Typed or very legibly handwritten and ers, transparent only, labels ok placed in the wallpocket labeled "Editor" on the second floor at the Preproduction: Susan Louie base of the ramp. • Plastic film and bubble wrap, transparent Art Director (production): Doug Popovich only, no colored or opaque, no labels I Digital Submissions: We welcome digital submissions. Drop disks in the wallpocket described above. The email address for • #5 plastic cups, tubs, and specifically Desktop Publishing: Kevin Cashman submissions is [email protected]. Receipt of your marked caps and lids, very clean and dry Lee Schere submissions will be acknowledged on the deadline day. (discard any with paper labels, or cut off) N Maxwell Taylor Classified & Display Ads: Ads may only be placed by and on behalf •NOTE: We are no longer accepting Editor (production): Nancy Rosenberg #2 #4 of Coop members. Classified ads are prepaid at $15 per insertion, or type plastics. Advertising: Peter Benton business card ads at $30. (Ads in the “Merchandise–Non-commercial” PLASTIC MUST BE COMPLETELY CLEAN & DRY G category are free.) All ads must be written on a submission form Puzzle Master: James Vasile (available in a wallpocket on the first floor near the elevator). Classi- We close up promptly. fied ads may be up to 315 characters and spaces. Display ads must Please arrive 15 minutes prior to the Final Proofreader: Teresa Theophano be camera-ready and business card size (2"x3.5"). collection end time to allow for inspection and Index: Len Neufeld sorting of your plastic. Printed by: Tri-Star Offset, Maspeth, NY.

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Park Slope Food Coop, Brooklyn, NY March 22, 2012  11

THANK YOU!

Thank you to the following members for referring friends who joined the Coop in the last four weeks. Ariel Abrahams Sasha De La Cruz Anna Hanau Angela Liao Fonlin Nyeu Lisa Schoenholt Jean Beeks Serena Deng Chaya Hoffinger Nancy Liebskind Diana P. Parul Shah Ady Ben-Israel Zeldy Eber Jane Huntington Robin Margolis Jack Petruzzelli Josephine Shokrian Daniel Bloomberg Gwyneth Esty-Kendall Kristy Hurt Rebecca Malter Phyllis Summer Starling Monique Bowen Laura F. Shahzad Ismaily Susan Marmol Jenni Quilter Tara Tabassi Susan Bricker Emily Fleisher Madeleine Jackson Julie May Maggie Raife Grace Timberlake Rosemary Calderon Luiza Flynn-Goodlett Anne Keating Jenny McCue Raina John Timberlake Emily Cavelier Sandra Fox Jonathan Kessler Isak Mendes Lynn Rakos Rachel Tomlinson Ming Chan Jeffrey Fry Brandon Koenig Alyson Metzger Angela Rivera Betty Tsang Charlie Marie Theres Franke Barbara Kryszko Matthew Mills Grace Robinson-Leo Mary Valenti Jacqueline Cheney Lisa Gilinsky Lauren L. Brittany Mitchell Briana Rognlin Sensho Teresa Wagg Claudia Natural Gittens Paige Lamb Carmichael Monaco Leah Rosen Stewart Wagner Evan Cohen Julie Goodman-Khasani Marcelle Layton Sarah Moon Julia Rosenfeld Aparna Wilder Amy Crossfield Ellen G. Gordon David Leiberman James Mulry Claire S. Ofer Wolberger Narciso Cruz Cali Gorewitz Erica Lessem Kiyomi Noda Kristen Schafenacker Ariel Westerman

All About the COOP CALENDAR General Meeting New Member Orientations General Meeting Info Our Governing Structure Attending an Orientation is the first step toward TUE, MAR 27 From our inception in 1973 to the present, the open Coop membership. Pre-registration is required for GENERAL MEETING: 7:00 p.m. monthly General Meetings, to which all members are all of the three weekly New Member Orientations. invited, have been at the center of the Coop’s decision- To pre-register, visit foodcoop.com or contact the TUE, APR 3 making process. Since the Coop incorporated in 1977, we Membership Office. Visit in person or call 718-622- AGENDA SUBMISSIONS: 8:00 p.m. have been legally required to have a Board of Directors. 0560 during office hours. Submissions will be considered for the Apr 24 The Coop continued the tradition of General Meetings by Have questions about Orientation? Please visit General Meeting. requiring the Board to have open meetings and to receive www.foodcoop.com and look at the “Join the Coop” the advice of the members at General Meetings. The page for answers to frequently asked questions. Gazette Deadlines Board of Directors, which is required to act legally and The Coop on the Internet LETTERS & VOLUNTARY ARTICLES: responsibly, has approved almost every General Meeting www.foodcoop.com Apr 5 issue: 12:00 p.m., Mon, Mar 26 decision at the end of every General Meeting. Board Apr 19 issue: 12:00 p.m., Mon, Apr 9 members are elected at the Annual Meeting in June. The Coop on Cable TV Copies of the Coop’s bylaws are available on the Coop Inside the Park Slope Food Coop CLASSIFIED ADS DEADLINE: Web site, foodcoop.com, at the Coop Community Corner FRIDAYS 2:30 p.m. with a replay at 10:30 p.m. Apr 5 issue: 7:00 p.m., Wed, Mar 28 and at every General Meeting. Channels: 56 (TimeWarner), 69 (CableVision). Apr 19 issue: 7:00 p.m., Wed, Apr 11 Next Meeting: Tuesday, Attend a GM Park Slope Food Coop March 27, 7:00 p.m. Mission Statement The General Meeting is held on the last Tuesday of each and Receive Work Credit month. Since the Coop’s inception in 1973, the General The Park Slope Food Coop is a mem- Meeting has been our decision-making body. At the ber-owned and operated food store—an General Meeting (GM) members gather to make alternative to commercial profit-oriented Location for March Only decisions and set Coop policy. The General-Meeting-for- business. As members, we contribute our Brooklyn Tech High School, 29 Fort Greene Place. workslot-credit program was created to increase labor: working together builds trust participation in the Coop’s decision-making process. through cooperation and teamwork and Following is an outline of the program. For full details, see the instruction sheets by the sign-up board. enables us to keep prices as low as possi- How to Place an Item ble within the context of our values and • Advance Sign-up required: To be eligible for workslot credit, you must add your principles. Only members may shop, and on the Agenda name to the sign-up sheet in the elevator lobby. The sign- we share responsibilities and benefits If you have something you’d like discussed at a General ups sheet is available all month long, except for the day of equally. We strive to be a responsible and Meeting, please complete a submission form for the the meeting when you have until 5 p.m. to sign up. On the ethical employer and neighbor. We are a Agenda Committee. Forms are available on the Coop Web day of the meeting, the sign-up sheet is kept in the buying agent for our members and not a site, foodcoop.com, in the rack near the Coop Community Membership Office. selling agent for any industry. We are a part Some restrictions to this program do apply. Please see Corner bulletin board and at General Meetings. Instructions below for details. of and support the cooperative movement. We offer a diversity of products with an and helpful information on how to submit an item appear • Two GM attendance credits per year: on the submission form. The Agenda Committee meets on Each member may take advantage of the GM-for- emphasis on organic, minimally pro- workslot-credit program two times per calendar year. cessed and healthful foods. We seek to the first Tuesday of each month to plan the agenda for the • Certain Squads not eligible: avoid products that depend on the GM held on the last Tuesday of the month. If you have a Eligible: Shopping, Receiving/ Stocking, Food exploitation of others. We support non- question, please call Ann Herpel at the Coop. Processing, Office, Maintenance, Inventory, Construction, toxic, sustainable agriculture. We respect and FTOP committees. (Some Committees are omitted the environment. We strive to reduce the because covering absent members is too difficult.) impact of our lifestyles on the world we Meeting Format for • Attend the entire GM: share with other species and future genera- In order to earn workslot credit you must be present tions. We prefer to buy from local, earth- March Only for the entire meeting. friendly producers. We recycle. We try to Warm Up (7:00 p.m.) • Introduction to meeting for- • Signing in at the Meeting: lead by example, educating ourselves and mat and procedures • Explore meeting literature 1. After the meeting the Chair will provide the others about health and nutrition, coopera- Workslot Credit Attendance Sheet. Agenda (7:30 p.m.) The agenda is posted on the 2.Please also sign in the attendance book that is tion and the environment. We are com- passed around during the meeting. mitted to diversity and equality. We Coop Web site, foodcoop.com, the Coop Community • Being Absent from the GM: oppose discrimination in any form. We Corner and may also appear elsewhere in this issue. It is possible to cancel without penalty. We do ask that strive to make the Coop welcoming and Wrap Up (9:30-9:45) (unless there is a vote to extend you remove your name if you know cannot attend. Please accessible to all and to respect the opin- the meeting) • Board of Directors’ vote do not call the Membership Office with GM cancellations. ions, needs and concerns of every member.

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12  March 22, 2012 Park Slope Food Coop, Brooklyn, NY

Training Sessions for 2012 mar 24 Esperanto apr 1, 2, 3 sat 3 pm sun, mon, tue Brooklyn Food Conference Esperanto is a fascinating language useful in meeting people in China, Brazil, Cuba, Here's your chance to be part of the May 12 Brooklyn Food Conference and get FTOP France, Japan, Israel, and most countries. Thousands of speakers meet internationally, credit as well. Go to one of these training sessions (see times below), then show up at nationally, regionally, and locally year-round. More than 1,000 individuals offer free the agreed-upon time and date for the Conference (TBD at the training meeting). When hosting via Pasporta Servo. Designed to be easy, most young speakers master the lan- you do your work at the Conference, you'll get FTOP credit for that work as well as for guage on-line for free. Activists world-wide link friendship with a chance for peace. the training meeting. Examples of work: registration, set-up, breakdown, childcare, Come for an introductory lesson, including a sing-a-long. Neil is a 15-year Coop mem- youth activities, expo and workshop support, building guide, literature distribution, ber, a retired school teacher, and a UN volunteer. He has traveled to 34 countries using staffing info tables, music performance (we need musicians all day), logistics, and Esperanto. Hear some experiences and share your stories from a linguistic viewpoint. more! Please RSVP for the training sessions: [email protected]. The May 12 Conference itself will be at Brooklyn Tech HS in Ft. Greene. All training sessions will take place in the Coop's second-floor meeting room: Sunday, mar 27 April 1, 7 p.m.; Monday, April 2, 9:30 a.m.; Tuesday, April 3, 7 p.m.; Thursday, April tue 7 pm PSFC MAR General Meeting 5, 9:30 a.m .; Tuesday, April 17, 9:30 a.m.; Saturday, April 21, 1:30 p.m.; Sunday, April 22, 7 p.m. Meeting Location for This Meeting Only: Brooklyn Technical High School, 29 Fort Greene Place. Use main entrance on corner of South Elliot and DeKalb Ave. Check-in for the meeting will begin at 6:15 p.m. Members will not be allowed in prior to 6:15 p.m. You must be a Food Coop member to attend the General Meeting and must bring a photo apr 3 I.D. card to be admitted. There is no re-entry. Once you check-in, if you leave the building, tue 8 pm Agenda Committee Meeting you will not be allowed to re-enter. Snacks and beverages will not be provided by the Coop. The Committee reviews pending agenda items and creates the Please plan accordingly if you need food or drink. We request that you keep eating to a minimum. Time for agenda item in parentheses is a suggestion. The Chair has the discre- agenda for this month’s General Meeting. Drop by and talk with tion to change the time allotted. This meeting must end by 10:15 p.m. More information committee members face-to-face between 8 and 8:15 p.m. on this item may be available at the entrance table at the meeting. Before submitting an item, read “How to Develop an Agenda Item #1: Referendum on the BDS Question (90 minutes) Item for the General Meeting” and fill out the General Meeting Agenda Item Submission Proposal: “We propose that the Coop hold a referendum to decide whether we will par- Form, both available from the Membership Office or at foodcoop.com. The next General ticipate in the international Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement to support Meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 24, 7 p.m., at Congregation Beth Elohim Social Palestinian human rights.” —submitted by Bill Mazza and Carol Wald Hall (Garfield Temple), 274 Garfield Place at Eighth Avenue. For information on how to place an item on the Agenda, please see the center pages of the Linewaiters’ Gazette. The Agenda Committee minutes and the status of pending agenda items are available in the Coop office. apr 5 Training Session for 2012 mar 27 Putting Your Passion thu 9:30 am Brooklyn Food Conference tue 7–9 pm Here's your chance to be part of the May 12 Brooklyn Food Conference and get FTOP Into Action credit as well. Go to one of these training sessions (see times below), then show up at Come to this workshop, to jump-start your journey toward finding the work you love. Here, the agreed-upon time and date for the Conference (TBD at the training meeting). When you will begin to: uncover your passions, exploring what you really love to do and can do; you do your work at the Conference, you'll get FTOP credit for that work as well as for clarify related career options; identify specific steps to create new career goals and the training meeting. Examples of work: registration, set-up, breakdown, childcare, actions. You will walk away from the experience with a greater awareness of what will youth activities, expo and workshop support, building guide, literature distribution, bring you more meaning, as well as specific goals to take immediate action. Anne Baker is staffing info tables, music performance (we need musicians all day), logistics, and a certified life and career coach and has been a Coop member for the past 10 years. more! Please RSVP for the training sessions: [email protected]. The May 12 Conference itself will be at Brooklyn Tech HS in Ft. Greene. All training sessions will take place in the Coop's second-floor meeting room: Thursday, April 5, 9:30 a.m .; Tuesday, April 17, 9:30 a.m.; Saturday, April 21, 1:30 p.m.; mar 30-31 Sunday, April 22, 7 p.m. fri-sat 11 am–6 pm Blood Drive Fact: Less than 3% of the population donates blood, and 90% will use blood some time in their life. Presented in cooperation with New York Methodist Hospital. For fur- ther information about blood donation, call 718-780-3644. apr 5 Food Class: thu 7:30 pm Food for BrainPOWER apr 1 What’s All the Excitement Discover how much food controls the speed and precision in sun 11 am which you think. You’ll learn how nutrients forge your brainpow- About Vitamin D er. We’ll debunk common diet myths that undermine your Vitamin D—the “sunshine vitamin”—has received a lot of attention recently. Susan Baldassano, Coordinator smarts. And while Chef Andréa Hammond explains this food- Dr. Milo F. Vassallo will give an interactive lecture to share his perspective on this brain science, she’ll show you how to whip up your own mouthwatering brain fuel. essential nutrient and the evidence of its importance in the medical literature. Dr. Impassioned by her findings, Andréa founded A.H. Nutrition Therapy to teach others Vassallo received his MD and PhD degrees from NYU School of Medicine and complet- the power of food to advance their minds. She completed her chef’s training at the ed a Fellowship in Allergy and Immunology at the Massachusetts General Hospital. Dr. Natural Gourmet Institute, then went on to become a Certified Nutrition Counselor Vassallo is a member of the Park Slope Food Coop and in practice counsels people to through the Academy for Healing Nutrition, which teaches nutrition according to identify environmental factors that trigger and worsen allergy symptoms and to main- Eastern sciences. Menu includes easy eggs florentine; omega-3 salad; coconut parfait. tain a healthy immune system with an aim toward long-term wellness. Materials fee: $4. Food classes are coordinated by Coop member Susan Baldassano.

For more information on these and other events, visit the Coop’s website: foodcoop.com All events take place at the Park Slope Food Coop unless otherwise noted. Nonmembers are welcome to attend workshops. Views expressed by the presenter do not necessarily represent the Park Slope Food Coop.

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Park Slope Food Coop, Brooklyn, NY March 22, 2012  13

register call (646) 483-4571 or e-mail [email protected]. Rebecca Curtis apr 7 M.A., M.F.A., HHC, AADP, is a certified holistic nutritionist and the founder of Green sat 2 pm EFT Workshop for You Gem Holistic Health. Mary Hart, M.S., L.Ac., is a board-certified acupuncturist and the founder of Healing Hart Acupuncture. Maybe you know the eight tapping points, or it will only take a minute to show them to you. Come to this workshop with your pain, your anger, your disappointment, and even your trauma memories, or hatred, worries or lack of self-esteem. EFT practitioner(s) at this workshop will guarantee to reduce or eliminate that pain and suffering by doing and apr 17 Training Session for 2012 teaching you these powerful tapping techniques. Come early to get a seat. Presented by thu 9:30 am Carolyn Meiselbach, EFT counselor, teacher and Coop member for more than 10 years. Brooklyn Food Conference Here's your chance to be part of the May 12 Brooklyn Food Conference and get FTOP credit as well. Go to one of these training sessions (see times below), then show up at apr 10 Safe Food Committee Film Night: the agreed-upon time and date for the Conference (TBD at the training meeting). When tue 7 pm you do your work at the Conference, you'll get FTOP credit for that work as well as for Farmageddon the training meeting. Examples of work: registration, set-up, breakdown, childcare, Americans’ right to access fresh, healthy foods of their choice is youth activities, expo and workshop support, building guide, literature distribution, under attack. Filmmaker Kristin Canty’s quest to find healthy staffing info tables, music performance (we need musicians all day), logistics, and food for her four children turned into a journey to discover why more! Please RSVP for the training sessions: [email protected]. The May 12 access to these foods was being threatened. Farmageddon tells Conference itself will be at Brooklyn Tech HS in Ft. Greene. the story of small, family farms that were providing safe, healthy All training sessions will take place in the Coop's second-floor meeting room: Tuesday, foods to their communities and were forced to stop, sometimes through violent action, by April 17, 9:30 a.m.; Saturday, April 21, 1:30 p.m.; Sunday, April 22, 7 p.m. agents of misguided government. Farmageddon highlights the urgency of food freedom, encouraging consumers and farmers to take action to preserve access to food free from bur- densome regulations. The film serves to put policymakers and regulators on notice. apr 20 How to Lighten Your fri 7:30 pm apr 13 Final Carbon Footprint fri 7 pm Film Night: Stages Now is the time to educate yourself on green burial and cremation options for your elderly parents, and ultimately—inevitably—yourself and others you love. Get the In New York City’s changing Lower East Side, a group of older low-down on your final carbon footprint now! We will discuss burial vaults, caskets on Puerto Rican women and inner-city youth come together over the market, green cemetery spaces in areas just outside the city and more. Coop 20 weeks to create an original play out of the stories of their member and former magazine writer Amy Cunningham felt so moved by the memorial lives. Amid the isolating bustle of nine million people, partici- service she helped plan for her elderly father, that she decided to pursue a second pants diverse in age, race and nationality confront stereotypes career in funeral service. and examine their own histories, exploring themes of immigra- tion, relationships, aging and coming of age. Woven together, their stories take on new meaning, first as they are spoken across generations and later when they are performed for a sold-out show. In response to a political climate that assigns little value to com- munity-arts initiatives, Stages offers an intimate portrait of an unlikely ensemble, trans- apr 20 Annie Keating and formed by the liberating power of their own stories. fri 8 pm Special screening date due to Passover this month. John Mettam & Flying Home To book a Film Night, contact Faye Lederman, [email protected]. The Village Voice raves about Annie Keating, “Keating is a wise mix of Lucinda Williams songwriting, Gillian apr 14 Welch guitar and a vocal all her own…a Knit & Sip Series cross between Willie Nelson and John Prine and you don‘t get sat 10 am any better than that.” Keating appeared live on the BBC Radio Calling all knitters and crocheters. Please bring yarns and needles and be prepared to (UK) Bob Harris show and has gone on to perform at leading fes- knit and crochet. Naeemah Senghor is a knitter, crocheter and raw-foodist and loves to tivals, playing on the bill with the likes of John Hiatt, Dan Bern, organize swaps and community events. She has been organizing “Knit & Sips” all over Boris McCutcheon, Shannon McNally. On her fourth (new) Brooklyn. She has been a Coop member for several years. album release, Water Tower View, Keating is at her best, deliver- ing beautifully crafted songs. The joint will be jumpin’ with Flying Home, a killer-diller band led by drummer John Mettam, performing the music of the Benny Goodman Sextet and other apr 14 Here’s Why You’re classics from the Swing Era. Cut a rug or sit back and enjoy this sat 3–6 pm Not Pregnant finger poppin’ jive session with Michael McGinnis (clarinet), Tom Beckham (vibes), Sean Moran (guitar), Brian Drye (trombone), and Jim Whitney (bass), plus special guest This workshop will show how to: resolve mystery infertility; eliminate toxins that impair singer Toby Williams. fertility; make IVF and IUI work the first time; cook meals that help you get pregnant; Concert takes place at the Brooklyn Society for Ethical Culture, 53 Prospect Park West identify the foods and supplements that boost your fertility; clear blocked tubes; nor- (at 2nd St.), $10, doors open at 7:45. The Very Good Coffeehouse is a monthly musical malize your cycle; dissolve fibroids and cysts; do fertility acupressure at home; prevent fundraising partnership of the Coop and the Brooklyn Society for Ethical Culture. miscarriage; and boost men’s sperm count and quality. Pre-registration suggested: to To book a Coffeehouse event, contact Bev Grant, 718-788-3741.

apr 21, 22 Training Sessions for Brooklyn Food Conference apr 26 Introduction to Bicycle Repair

apr 24 Healthy Thyroid apr 27 Wordsprouts

apr 24 PSFC APRIL General Meeting apr 28 Learn How to Volunteer & Make a Difference

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14  March 22, 2012 Park Slope Food Coop, Brooklyn, NY

SAFE FOOD COMMITTEE REPORT

with the water. Generally Besides jar-styled sprouters, speaking, most seeds enjoy there are also bags and trays of Sprouting an 8-12 hour soak, but this is different materials, sizes and Don’t let winter lull your gardening spirit into hibernation. not a precise science. Bigger capacities for small scale and harder seeds like garban- and heavy duty growing. Revive those green thumbs with homegrown sprouting. zos need more in the range of Sproutpeople.org sells all 12 hours, while smaller and kinds of sprout gear. Bags are By Shawn Onsgard Brown Rice, Buckwheat, sprout. Pasteurized and softer radish seeds only need great for backpacking and trav- prouting is like growing a Kamut, Millet, Oats, Popcorn, roasted seeds, for example, eight. Seeds packaged for el. Trays are good for large- Smicro garden in your Quinoa, Red Thai Rice, Rye, will not sprout. Neither will sprouting often include scale production. kitchen. All you need are Sesame, Spelt, Triticale, “split” peas, “cut” or “rolled” instructions on the packaging Arugula, basil, chia, some seeds, a jar, and fresh Wehani Rice, Wheat, Wild grains, or other similarly for how long to soak them. cress, flax and mizuna have water. People like sprouting Rice processed seeds. Typically, your seeds will for- mucilaginous seeds and will because sprouts are tasty, Leafy sprouts: Alfalfa, give an imprecise duration of not sprout in conventional and it’s an easy way to get Arugula, Broccoli, Cabbage, Why Sprout soaking and sprout for you jar-styled sprouters. Because fresh produce at home all Celery, Chia, Clover, Cress, • Increased quantity and anyhow. you can’t soak them (try soak- year. And, somewhat miracu- Dill, Fenugreek, Flax, Garlic, quality of amino acids, Some seeds only need a ing a flax seed in two table- lously, metabolic changes Kale, Lettuce, Mizuna, Mus- enzymes, phytochemicals, half hour to soak: buckwheat spoons water to understand that occur in the sprouting tard, Onion, Radish, Tatsoi, vitamins and antioxidants in groats, amaranth and quinoa. what mucilaginous means), process make seeds more Turnip seeds. Some seeds can be done they must be grown in a man- nutritious. Beans: Adzuki, Black • Improved digestibility of sprouting and ready to ner similar to outdoor gar- Bean, Garbanzo, Lentil, seeds. eat after soaking without dening where seeds are kept Seeds for Sprouting Mung, Pea, Peanut, Pinto • Reduced phytates and growing much if any root/ moist and covered while they Use only whole, raw, ‘Nuts’: Almond, Pumpkin, protease inhibitors that tail. Some popular soaks grow. SproutPeople.org sells unpasteurized seeds that are Sunflower, Peanut improve the availability of include: almond 4-12 hours; a “miniature garden” and sold for human consumption. Cull through your seeds to minerals and proteins. hulled sunflower 0.5-4 “baby blanket” sprouting See the list of commonly remove any small stones, • Convenience and sim- hours; pumpkin 1-4 hours, gear designed for mucilagi- sprouted seeds below. Many random debris or damaged plicity of micro-gardening. peanut 4-12 hours. nous seeds. You can also can be found in the Park seeds before starting. It is • “Yummm!” factor. Mucilaginous seeds like try growing mucilaginous Slope Food Coop’s bulk aisle likewise good to rinse seeds arugula, basil, chia, cress, seeds on a swatch of moist- and elsewhere in the store. If clean of dust by immersing How to Sprout flax, and mizuna are actually ened fabric from an old you can’t find it at the Coop, them in a bowl of water, pour- Soak your seeds in a gen- not soaked at all, but rather sweater/blanket or in/on try SproutPeople.org. Com- ing off excess water and erous amount of water to get grown on moist soil or other a tray of soil/coir on your monly sprouted seeds repeating until the water things started. Most seeds medium (see GEAR below). windowsill. include: pours clear. will double their size while Drain—Rinse—Drain. No matter what gear you ‘Grains’: Amaranth, Barley, Some seeds just won’t soaking, so don’t be stingy After soaking, drain off the use, keep your sprouting water, rinse seeds with fresh devices clean. Coop Job Openings: water and drain all the water off again. After draining thor- Caveat Sprouter Receiving/Stocking Coordinators— oughly, let the seeds rest and • All seeds from the grow. Rinse and drain com- solanaceae “deadly night- Two Positions Available pletely at least twice daily. shade” family including Position #1: Early Morning including Weekends Seeds should smell sweet tomato, potato, eggplant We are hiring a Receiving/Stocking Coordinator to work morning shifts, as early as 5:30 a.m. The schedule will and fertile after rinsing. and peppers are not recom- also include at least one weekend day. Eat your sprouts when mended for sprouting The ideal candidate will be knowledgeable and passionate about produce and food. Previous experience and they look yummy. Everyone because they are naturally training in the food industry is a plus. Good math skills are required, and you must be comfortable using MacIntosh computers. This is a high-energy job for a fit candidate as you must be able to lift and to be on has different taste, but it usu- toxic. your feet for hours. The job will include work in the walk-in coolers and freezers. ally takes about two to six • Raw soybeans, including You must be a reliable, responsible self-starter who enjoys working with our diverse member-workers, plus be days for sprouts to grow to their uncooked sprouts, con- an excellent team player with your co-workers. Excellent communication and organizational skills, patience, the ability to prioritize work and to remain calm under pressure are required. preferred size. Younger tain toxic trypsin inhibitors. sprouts may be too seedy, or • Alfalfa sprouts may be Position #2: Evenings and Weekends their leaves may not be green harmful for people living with The Coop is hiring a Receiving/Stocking Coordinator to work evenings and weekends. enough yet. Older sprouts Lupus (Systemic Lupus Ery- The evening and weekend Receiving/Stocking Coordinators have a lot of responsibility overseeing the smooth functioning of the store and supporting the squads. They work with the Receiving squads, keeping may become too fibrous. If thematosus). the store well stocked and orderly while maintaining the produce quality. At the end of the evening, they set you don’t eat them all at • Legume sprouts (except up the receiving areas to prepare for the following day’s early morning deliveries. once, sprouts can be refriger- garbanzo, mung, alfalfa and The ideal candidate will be a reliable, responsible self-starter who enjoys working with our diverse member- workers. You must be an excellent team player, as you will be sharing the work with several other Receiving ated for a week or more to clover) should be cooked Coordinators. You must have excellent communication and organizational skills, patience, the ability to preserve freshness. before eating. prioritize the work and remain calm under pressure. We are looking for a candidate who wants a permanent evening/weekend schedule. This is a high energy job for a fit candidate. You must be able to lift and work for hours on your feet including in the walk-in coolers Gear Serving Suggestions and freezer. Grocery store experience is a plus. You don’t need much to Leafy sprouts are great on Hours: 38-40 hours per week, schedule to be determined grow a lot of sprouts. The sim- sandwiches, as salads or as Wages: $25.29/hour plest sprouting hardware is a complements to salads. Benefits: —Vacation–three weeks/year increasing in the 4th, 7th & 10th years wide-mouth mason jar fitted Sprouted grains are good in —health insurance —Health and Personal time with a stainless steel screen, soups, and can be ground for —pension plan which is available at the sprouted bread recipes. Bean Coop. The glass jar gives sprouts are tasty additions to Application & Hiring Process: seeds a clean place to grow stir-fries, or can be ground up Please provide a cover letter and your résumé as soon as you can. E-mail your letter and résumé to: [email protected]. All applicants will receive a response. Please do not call the office where they won’t dry out. And into batter for falafel. Nut to check on the status of your application. If you applied previously to another Coop job offering and the screen makes it easy to sprouts are lovely eaten fresh remain interested, please reapply. rinse and drain seeds without and raw as a snack unto Probation Period: losing them down the sink. themselves. ■ There will be a six-month probation period. Just leave the screen lid on Prerequisite: your jar, fill with fresh water, Please share your recipes and Must be a current member of the Park Slope Food Coop for at least the past 6 months. shake it around a few times sprouting tips with us. Visit our Applicants must have worked a minimum of three shifts in Receiving within the past year. and turn the whole thing blog: www.BrooklynBackyard We are seeking an applicant pool that reflects the diversity of the Coop's membership. upside down to drain through .wordpress.com or Brooklyn- the screen. Backyard-Brigade on Facebook.

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Park Slope Food Coop, Brooklyn, NY March 22, 2012  15

BDS question are anti-Coop is untrue upcoming General Meeting vote on form of political and personal HOLTZ AND BDS and, frankly, insulting. whether to hold a Coop-wide Israeli expression. But the protesters will And the concept that only near- boycott (BDS) referendum. Mostly they be rejecting the Coop, not vice versa. TO THE EDITOR, universally-held views are legitimate were rational concerns, lauding the David Barouh Joe Holtz’s ‘article’ in the last Gazette to take action on is not only illogical value of face to face discussions only left me feeling shocked and disap- but ahistorical within our Coop con- possible in the GM format, and more pointed in how he is trying to use his text. I’m on the Archives committee generally the dubious wisdom of taking REGARDING THE ‘PLEASE sway as a Coordinator. First off, as the and in the course of my work have a position on an issue over which there VOTE COOP’ ARTICLE mother of a young child, I spend a lot of browsed through many Gazette issues has been so much contention, and for time thinking about what I want to with impassioned letters arguing which, one might add, the very pres- TO THE EDITOR: instill in my child and the concept of positions that clearly didn’t enjoy a ence of such vocal opposition to the I was dismayed to read Joe Holtz’s cooperation is an important one. Joe comfortable majority support. For boycott is worrying, as is the prospect article in the previous issue of the Holtz’s assertion that true cooperation example, in 1986 there was a referen- of the agitation that might follow, were Gazette. For a Coordinator and, as he involves not discussing issues that dum on “three controversial ques- the boycott adopted, with hotheads takes pains to emphasize, founder of could be divisive is incredible to me. Is tions” (I’m quoting the 9/11/86 article) like Glenn Beck and Alan Dershowitz the Coop to claim that the Coop is not that really what cooperation means? related to selling beer, selling poultry, involving themselves in our business. a political institution, and to con- Shouldn’t cooperation mean that we’re and providing plastic bags. The refer- In addition, said Joe: “We do not clude that we should, therefore, never willing to listen to one another and endum results were published, and measure members on their adherence take a position on anything remotely grow and change together? Can this the membership was not exactly unit- to any political position. There is no controversial, borders on the absurd. happen without conversation? Second- ed (poultry split 666 yes, 436 no; beer litmus test here for members other Joe seems to wish this whole thing ly, his assertion that this issue is one was 497 yes to 601 no). than whether the member is cooper- would just go away. There are many on which we will be uniquely divided, The Coop is not a few individuals; ating by fulfilling her membership days I wish the same—when I think of unlike any other issue the Coop has it’s all of us. I don’t envy Joe and other responsibilities.” Indeed, there isn’t, the harassment, heckling and insults seen, is bizarre. It is impossible to know staff for having to field phone calls from but in support of that Joe cited the many of my pro-BDS friends have just how many people are for or against the media, some with distorted ideas International Cooperative Alliance encountered. But despite these set- the BDS proposal without bringing it to about what’s going on here, as well as Statement on Cooperative Identity, backs, I have faith all of us as Coop a referendum. Just because a handful of from people who may be upset that the and commented that the Statement members should be able to discuss people write letters to the Gazette or Coop community is considering a boy- “states clearly that coops are not the issue civilly and, together, figure bring it up at General Meetings doesn’t cott of Israeli goods. But the answer is organized for the purpose of taking out how to address it in a way that’s actually tell us anything about what the not to shy away from resolving the political positions.” In a narrow sense best for the Coop. 16,000 members of the Coop think issue, thus perpetuating the idea that this is true; the Statement’s definition The answer to controversy is not to about this issue. In fact, I would consid- the BDS tactic is shameful, fringe says a cooperative is “an autonomous stifle discussion, nor to denigrate the er that a scare tactic. behavior that inevitably leads to bad association of persons united volun- group that’s seen as “troublesome” for I can say that in my informal conver- press for the Coop. It’s not and it tarily to meet their economic, social, the Coop, but to have MORE discus- sations with members during my shifts, shouldn’t—so let’s stop the cycle and and cultural needs and aspirations sion. I actually have only met one person challenge that discourse. Openly dis- through a jointly owned and democ- BDS has a broad array of support- who was against having a referendum cussing and voting on BDS at the Coop ratically controlled enterprise.” But ers nationally and globally; has been whereas many people said they were will give our community sustenance. while the Statement’s First Principle called for by Palestinian civil society, for it. Do I think this means that I know Melissa Morrone says that cooperatives are open to all and is a proven, non-violent form of what the people of the Coop want? Of persons “without gender, social, taking a stand with the oppressed. course not, it was informal conversa- racial, political, or religious discrimi- Not only is it good for the Coop, it’s tions, those will never be as reliable as JOE’S OPINION OR nation,” we should not equate that good for millions of people in the a full on referendum. Joe Holtz’s article THE COOP’S? with the Coop taking a political posi- Middle East and worldwide. must be based entirely on informal tion by a democratic vote of the mem- We ask only that all 16,000 Coop information since we have not had ANY TO THE EDITORS, bers. Indeed, the Coop has taken such members be allowed to learn these votes yet on anything relating to BDS. Coop General Coordinator and Co- positions in the past, as Joe himself facts, and others, and be given the Lastly, his comment that we should- Founder Joe Holtz submitted his pointed out, albeit in those cases time to make up their own minds on n’t alienate members who might not opinion in the “Coordinators Corner” there was near unanimity of opinion. the issue. want to join the BDS campaign is one- of the March 8th edition of the Gazette We’ve also taken clear political posi- Sincerely, sided. As someone who supports BDS, about holding a BDS referendum. He tions on issues like genetically engi- Irina Ivanova I will have to really sit down and think made it clear there that he does not neered foods, the commercialization about whether I’ll stay at the Coop if want us to hold a Coop-wide referen- of water resources, and fracking. But THANKS JOE! the referendum doesn’t pass. I joined dum about joining the international again, near unanimity is not unanimi- the Coop so I would be supporting a movement for Boycott, Divestment ty. According to this formulation, even world where we think about how our and Sanctions against the Israeli near unanimity would still be discrim- DEAR MEMBERS, food is processed, where it comes treatment of Palestinians. inating against the few dissenting We thank Joe Holtz for his continued from, and who is affected by its produc- I do not assume that Joe represents members. Whereas the intensity of stewardship and protection of our tion and sale. These are all critical com- any opinion except his own. He does certain members feelings on the issue Coop. We join him in appealing to ponents of why BDS is important to not indicate in the article that he is in question may or may not be a good everyone who cares about the Coop to me. Food is political whether we like it speaking for anyone else. I would reason to vote against in the present come to the March 27 General Meeting or not. appreciate seeing Gazette articles or let- case (indeed it’s a tough call) we must and vote NO on holding the referen- For all of these reasons, I will be ters from other Coordinators either be careful about equating that with dum to join the Boycott, Divestment there voting yes for a referendum on concurring or disagreeing with Joe. discriminating against certain mem- and Sanctions of Israel Movement. BDS on March 27th. I hope that you’ll Otherwise, I think readers might bers, or, as Joe also said, making More Hummus Please join me and that each person who sup- be misled into believing that what members feel “unwelcome and alien- Anita Aboulafia, Rhudi Andreolli, ports this will bring their friends. Joe thinks is what all the Coordina- ated from what has been their Coop.” Alexander Appelbaum, Alla Appelbaum, Rebecca Giordano tors think. There is no reason to believe that Maurice Appelbaum, Rebeccah Appelbaum, Naomi Brussel Coop members would be any less Eva Aridjis, Roberta Arnold, Shena Gitel DISAPPOINTED WITH welcoming to other members based Astrin, Connie Bell, Greg Bell, Steve Beltzer, COOPERATIVE on their position on the upcoming Michael Benjamin, Steven Berke, Shalmon HOLTZ referendum, were the Coop to vote Bernstein, Esther Bernstein, Danielle Rose PRINCIPLES AND THE for it at the coming GM. Were the Bernstein, Ora Chaya Bitton, Peretz DEAR EDITOR, REFERENDUM proposal to ultimately pass, and if Blasberg, Shandel Blasberg, Jennifer Bleyer, I was really disappointed with Joe resignations ensue, we should be Gloria Blumenthal, Robert Blumenthal, Ruth Holtz’s article asking people to “vote DEAR MEMBERS, clear that they will not be due to an Bolletino, Elisa Bonneau, Carla Brookoff, Coop” at the upcoming GM. For one In the 3/8/2012 Linewaiters’ Gazette, unwelcoming Coop. Rather, the res- Rita Brookoff, Alan Brown, Arthur Brown, thing, the implication that those of us General Coordinator Joe Holtz ignations will be in protest of the Matthew Brown, Jane Buckwalter, Darrin who want to hold a referendum on the expressed his concerns about the Coop’s decision, a perfectly valid CONTINUED ON PAGE 16

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16  March, 2012 Park Slope Food Coop, Brooklyn, NY

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 Cabot, Nathalie Cabot, Rubi Cammarota, Michael Rieman, Jill Robinson, Joy Romanski, the Coop. We will be tainted with the To allow each member the privileges Sandra Catania, Benedicte Charpentier, Devorah Roness, Myer Roness, Doris associations and alignments of the we are able to, would be an act of Francois Charpentier, Chana Crayk, Meir Rosenbaum, Ron Rosenbaum, Mirele BDS Movement. peacemaking. Crayk, Zusha Dean, Benyomin Delfiner, Rosenberger, Riva Rosenfeld, Tzivia Chaya • We respect the right of all mem- I wonder what other terrible coun- Chana Delfiner, Sharon Eagle, Audrey Elias, Rosenthal, Yaacov Rosenthal, Dovid bers to determine their political views tries’ products we are selling? Mickey Elias, Eli Eliav, Shayna Eliav, Rose Rubashkin, Faygy Rubashkin, Moshe and choose what products to buy. This An inventory, please? Maybe we Engel, Mike Epstein, Anna Fefer, Herman Rubashkin, Rochel Rubashkin, Millie Ruttner, referendum tries to impose a single could list each product on the website, Finkler, Arthur Finn, Carol Freeman, Riva Jonathan S. Sack, Lisa Sack, Ruth Seliger, political view upon the entire member- and also the country in which it origi- Freeman, Ralph Friedman, Jill Friedman, Daniel E. Schachter, Ilan Schifter, Rita ship and removes choice. nates, passes through or is sold by. Yoav Gal, Boaz Gilad, Sue Gilad, Lisa Schifter, Shayna Schmidt, Irvin Schonfeld, • We reject the idea that selling Tolerance. Peace. Cooperation. Gilinsky, Marshall Gilinsky, Isaiah Gitman, Pearl Knopf Schonfeld, Victoria Shonbrun, goods from a country such as China, Please! Let’s try harder to get along! Olia Gitman, Yury Gitman, Frieda Givon, Rivkah Siegel, Mushkie Silberberg, Naftali Israel, or Turkey, impl ies agreement Love wins. Hatred and anger hurt us all. Yokhai Givon , Ronen Glimer, Felicia Silberberg, Alan Silver, Renee Silver, Lisa with all the policies of these regimes. Claudia Joseph Glucksman, Jordan Goldberg, Ellen Gordon, Smith, Michael Benjamin Smith, Wendy • We believe that joining the BDS Asya Gorokhovsky, Leonid Gorokhovsky, Lori Smyth, Nancy Spitalnick, Israel Spitalny, Movement means surrendering a cer- BROOKLYN FOR PEACE: Gottesman, Leah Gradinger, Misty Malkah Spitalny, Marion Stein , Ronald J. tain amount of control to an outside Gradinger, Ulrich Gradinger, Diana Gradus, Stein, Ruth Steinberg, Stephanie Steinberg , entity that has no interest in the suc- ISRAEL Ari Gradus, Bob Graziano, Sybil Graziano, Jonathan Stern, Mirit Tal, Aaron Tauber, cess of the Coop. Feotiniya Grechko, Craig Gremont, Ilene Susan Tauber, Allen Tobias, Dolores Urove, • We are concerned that joining the COOP MEMBERS: Guttmacher, Margaret Hagen, Beth Halpern, Joel Warshawer, Rabbi Gerald I. Weider, BDS Movement may subject the Coop The following is excerpted from a Fran Hawthorne, Naf Hanau, Devorah Rosalie H. Weider, Frances Weiner, Baruch to legal ramifications. recent Brooklyn For Peace flyer. Hershkop, Samuel Hertz, Esther Hertzel, Weisman, Esther Wilenkin, Risha Wilenkin, (2) We are Pro-Peace Adam Holland, Betty Leigh Hutcheson, Inna Rivky Wilenkin, Constance Williams, Alessa • We support cooperative efforts to FACT SHEET: ISRAELI Hymowitz, Daniel Hymowitz, Sheldon Wircberg, Yosef Wircberg normalize relations between Israelis APARTHEID IN THE OCCUPIED Jacobson, Rachel Kalman, Constantine and Palestinians. These are the efforts PALESTINIAN TERRITORIES Kaniklidis, Berta Kantor, Yevgeniy Kantor, that lay the foundation stones of 1. The Israeli settlements in Occupied Michael Katzenellenbogen, Benjamin Kessel, WE OPPOSE BDS peace. The BDS Movement’s leader- Palestine are for Jews only. The settlements are Eric Kim, Joshua Kranz, Chana Kuperman, ship opposes all joint activities with illegal under International Law, which pro- Maureen Kushner, Evelyn Lampart, Gracie TO THE MEMBERSHIP, Israelis. hibits settling conquered territory. The land is Landes, Chaya Lang, Tzvi Lang, Adina I and others say “No” to the referen- • We support equitable negotiations often confiscated from individual Palestinian Lazerson, Yisroel Lazerson, David Leveson, dum because: between Israelis and Palestinians that owners. Jess Levey, Margaret Leveson, Chana Lew, (1) WE ARE PRO-COOP provide mutual recognition of (1) both 2. Thousands of Palestinian houses have Pinny Lew, Sylvia Lowenthal, Judith Magen, • We recognize that there are sharp of their nationalist aspirations, identi- been demolished to make way for housing that Ary Malamud, Sasha Malamud, Sandy differences of opinion on BDS. Previ- ties, and historic ties to the land, and is only for Jews. Mandel, Abie Mazor, Avishay Mazor, ous political boycotts had no signifi- (2) both of their legitimate security 3. The Israeli government builds roads to Barbara Mazor, April Mellas, David Michael- cant opposing faction. This referendum concerns. connect their segregated settlements to cities son, Jacob Milkens, Juliet Milkens, Alan is creating extreme discord inside the • We believe the Arab refugees who inside Israel, roads that Palestinians are not Mindel, Paula Morrell, Alexander Musayev, Coop. fled Israel to the neighboring Arab allowed to use. Barry Nass, Constance Nickel, Poppy • We support a Coop that is welcom- countries should be accorded basic 4. The Jewish settlers can move freely from O’Neill, Dr. Raisa Oklander, Baila Olidort, ing to all. This proposed referendum is human rights and dignity in those Israel proper to their settlement homes on their Marjorie Ordene, Jan Orzeck, Mushky creating a contentious atmosphere. countries. segregated roads, while the movement of Pales- Parnas, Rivka Parnas, Rodger Parsons, Hara • We value the Coop’s good name • We are concerned that the boycott tinians within the West Bank is severely cur- Person, Ann Powell, Joseph Raices, Rivka and reputation. The referendum will will be damaging to the Palestinian tailed by hundreds of checkpoints, internal Raices, Rachel Ravitz, Saul D. Raw, Yigal bring opprobrium to the Coop, and all economy and workforce that relies on passports, and the separation wall, which cuts Rechtman, Jeffrey Rickin, Lila Rieman, activities endorsed and affiliated with the Israeli sector. deep into Palestinian land. • We recognize that Israel alone is 5. The Jewish settlement towns have plenti- LETTERS POLICY not responsible for the conflict and ful water and full sewage facilities, while Pales- that pressure on Israel alone will not fix tinian villages and towns are not provided with We welcome letters from members. Submission tual coverage: it. adequate water and sewage facilities. deadlines appear in the Coop Calendar. All let- 1. The Gazette will not publish hearsay—that • We believe that the continued 6. The olive trees of the Palestinian farmers ters will be printed if they conform to the pub- is, allegations not based on the author's first- Arab opposition to compromise per- are often uprooted by the settlers or their fields lished guidelines. We will not knowingly publish hand observation. petuates the conflict and in fairness are poisoned while the Israeli army turns a articles which are racist, sexist or otherwise dis- 2. Nor will we publish accusations that are this must be acknowledged. blind eye. This has interfered greatly with criminatory not specific or are not substantiated by factual More Hummus, Please Palestinian farmers’ livelihood. The maximum length for letters is 500 assertions. Marion Stein 7. Jewish settlers’ crimes against Palestini- words. Letters must include your name and 3. Copies of submissions that make substan- ans are usually not prosecuted by Israeli phone number and be typed or very legibly tive accusations against specific individuals will COMPLEXITIES OF THE authorities. handwritten. Editors will reject letters that are be given to those persons to enable them to 8. Palestinians are subject to arrest and illegible or too long. write a response, and both submissions and BOYCOTT detention in jails without charges and without You may submit on paper, typed or very legi- response will be published simultaneously. This legal council that is available to Jews. Thou- bly handwritten, or via email to GazetteSubmis- means that the original submission may not DEAR FELLOW MEMBERS, sands of Palestinians are in Israeli prisons, [email protected] or on disk. appear until the issue after the one for which it The Boycott controversy reflects the many of them children, without ever being was submitted. same complexities and broader chal- charged or brought to trial. Anonymity The above applies to both articles and letters. lenges to global peace that we all face. 9. The Jewish settlers in the Occupied Terri- Unattributed letters will not be published The only exceptions will be articles by Gazette The inability to converse respectfully tories live under Israeli law, have Israeli citizen- unless the Gazette knows the identity of the reporters which will be required to include the on important topics and an unwilling- ship, and vote in Israeli elections. Palestinians writer, and therefore must be signed when sub- response within the article itself. ness to co-exist, both fan the flames of live under Israeli Military Law, have no nation- mitted (giving phone number). Such letters will intolerance. al citizenship, and cannot vote in Israeli elec- be published only where a reason is given to the Respect I respect that the Gazette is providing tions. editor as to why public identification of the Letters must not be personally derogatory or a forum for discussion. The current writer would impose an unfair burden of embar- insulting, even when strongly criticizing an indi- dynamic, however, is a lose-lose situa- FACT SHEET: APARTHEID rassment or difficulty. Such letters must relate vidual member's actions. Letter writers must tion. Can we PLEASE label all of our WITHIN ISRAEL to Coop issues and avoid any non-constructive, refer to other people with respect, refrain from products and let each member choose 1. Non-Jewish Israeli citizens are prohibited, non-cooperative language. calling someone by a nickname that the person who they support? from buying or leasing approximately 95% per never uses himself or herself, and refrain from We are never going to all agree and cent of the land and property in Israel, which Fairness comparing other people to odious figures like as a cooperative we can acknowledge can be bought or leased only by Jews. In order to provide fair, comprehensive, fac- Hitler or Idi Amin. openly that we have strong differences 2. A non-Jewish Israeli citizen, if he or she of opinion. marries a Palestinian from the Occupied Terri- Read the Gazette while you’re standing on line OR online at www.foodcoop.com 12_03-22 p01-20_Layout 1 3/21/12 5:54 PM Page 17

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tories, cannot live with his or her spouse in TRUTH OR LIES? actually goes on there before you vote. tion, understanding and nuance. I Israel. They must move out of the country or Those advocating the PSFC boy- don’t judge anyone’s position on live apart. Jewish Israelis can live and marry TO THE EDITOR: cott don’t discuss the aims of glob- Israel/Palestine AS LONG AS IT IS A who they want, however if they want to marry a My concern about the March 27 al BDS, but you can read about TRULY INFORMED ONE, not one born non-Jew, they must leave the country to do so. vote is that many Coop members, them on the global website: of ignorance, hatred, fear or dogma. Jews and non-Jews cannot get married in Israel. unfamiliar with historical events and www.bdsmovement.net/bdsintro My hope is that with a debate, with a 3. Only Jewish religious sites are given legal issues involved in the boycott contro- Here are information sources conversation, people will walk away protection in Israel by the government. Christ- versy, have no way of about the other side of the story: with a deeper understanding of this ian and Moslem holy sites are not recognized as distinguishing truth from lies. CAMERA: Center for Accuracy in Mid- complex issue, with an appreciation official holy sites in Israel, and are not given The vote is not simply about dle East Reporting: www.camera.org for the heartfelt motivations behind legal protection. banning four or five Israeli Coop Stand With Us: www.standwithus.org, many supporters on both sides, and 4. All citizens of Israel have their religious products. It’s about PSFC becoming www.sayyestopeace.org with the chutzpah to come to an identity on their internal IDs, so non-Jews are officially aligned with an international Real Partners. Real Peace: informed place of personal choice dri- always distinguished from Jewish citizens, and are movement with no objectives for www.realpartnersrealpeace.org ven by one’s own moral compass, often treated differently based on their religion. helping Palestinian people. (Look in Divest This: www.divestthis.com rather than simply to go with one herd 5. Candidates cannot run for political office in vain on the international BDS website FLAME: Facts and Logic about the or another. This is what democracy Israel if they advocate for Israel to become a nation for any concrete goals to help them Middle East: www.factsandlogic.org looks like. If we, as the Coop, vote to with equal rights under the law for all its citizens. build a better society or stop the The American Israel Public Affairs move to a referendum, it becomes our References: Author: Richard Greve, abuses they endure from every Arab Committee: www.AIPAC.org responsibility to ensure a structured, www.israellawresourcecente.org, country or area where they live.) BDS TIP (The Israel Project) Sheet: vibrant, educational conversation that www.endtheoccupation.org aims only at delegitimizing and dis- www.theisraelproject.org includes many voices sharing the his- Mary Buchwald mantling Israel as a Jewish state. FrontLine Israel: www.israel/front- torical, sociological, religious, security Brooklyn For Peace Examining the BDS leaflet distrib- line.com/2011/08/scottish-professor- and human rights backgrounds of the uted at the Coop, one hardly knows response-to-boycott region. If the Coop’s member body where in its mass of falsehoods and Honest Reporting: walks away from this process with a NONVIOLENCE AND THE distortions to begin. www.honestreporting.com deeper understanding, regardless of REFERENDUM Here are just a few random correc- Simon Wiesenthal Center newsletter: the outcome of a vote, we have truly tions to the leaflet: [email protected] achieved our democratic goals. Any- TO THE EDITORS, There is no Israeli “military” or Mitchell Bard, The Arab Lobby. (2010: thing shy of this, however, will only be Opponents of our Coop joining the “illegal” “occupation” of Gaza, the New York, HarperCollins) divisive and will erode our common boycott of Israeli goods often suggest West Bank or East Jerusalem. For the sake of the Coop, vote “No.” values and our search for common that instead of boycotting Israel, why not • Gaza is ruled by Hamas, a mili- Ruth Bolletino good. Education IS democracy. boycott China or Burma? Why not [insert tant extremist Muslim Group. Thank you. another human-rights violator here]? • Both Arabs and Israelis have David Novack The question we will face at the legitimate claim to some West Bank RESPONSE TO MAZOR General Meeting on March 27, howev- land. Israel has legal claims based on BDS TARGEST ISRAEL er, is not which country has the worst the British Mandate, the last legal DEAR MEMBERS, human rights record. The question is: authority in the disputed territories, I have not, in close to 20 years of Do we Coop members get to vote on and historical claims based on its Coop membership, been moved to DEAR MEMBERS, joining the call by Palestinian 3000-year presence. write to the Gazette before. But I can- 195 countries and BDS targets one: activists to boycott the regime that • Many Palestinians in East not allow Barbara Mazor’s awful Israel. Supporters write about dis- tries to control their lives—in order to Jerusalem are citizens with the same “Member Contribution” to go unchal- crimination, political oppression and pressure the Israeli government to rights as all other citizens. Others lenged. colonization. They want to boycott end the occupation? have “permanent resident” status, Joel Kovel is one of the most princi- Israeli products, ideas, artists and The occupation means that the entitling them to municipal services pled, ethical and intelligent people teachers. Their target is the legitimacy Israeli government controls the roads (including health care) and voting on the planet. Mazor is welcome to and survival of the State of Israel. in the West Bank and Gaza and sets rights. disagree with his findings and his The boycott does not extend to Jor- up check points that delay ambu- The so-called “separation wall” positions, but what she’s done in this dan yet the events of Black September lances, not to mention people trying is a security barrier, mostly wire piece is to cherry-pick the most killed thousands and caused the to get to work or do ordinary busi- fencing, constructed to stop suicide provocative language she can find expulsion of thousands of Palestini- ness. It means bulldozing houses and bombers from entering Israel. The from his book Overcoming Zionism, ans. It does not mention Kuwait, plowing under olive groves. It means “right” it violates is to force people to clearly not to enlighten, but, Lim- which expelled hundreds of thou- building a wall through Palestinian pass through a checkpoint, as in air- baugh-like, to inflame. Mazor has sands of Palestinians. Lebanon pro- villages and continuing to take land ports. Similar barriers exist between clearly decided that anyone whose hibits access to Lebanese health care from Palestinians and give it to Israeli the U.S. and Mexico. opinion on the BDS movement differs and Palestinians cannot work in most settlers. Boycott-Divestment-Sanc- Israel’s so-called “attacks on from hers is an anti-Semite, an offen- professions, own land etc. Other Arab tions is a nonviolent response to the unarmed supply ships in interna- sive and grotesque mockery of BDS countries discriminate in the same occupation. Those who decry rocket tional water” was vindicated in the activists’ motives. fashion but BDS is silent about that. attacks—as I do—should think about UN Palmer report, stating that the I find the article despicable, and Only Israel is the target. supporting nonviolent campaigns like boarding was legal, and the objec- am disappointed that the Gazette staff Our Chinese-made goods don’t BDS to bring change. tives and conduct of flotilla organizers chose to print it. seem to bother the people pushing As a member since 1990, I believe included violence. Martha Livingston for the boycott. Never a word about that our Coop joining BDS would be a So-called “political prisoners’” China moving Han Chinese into Tibet significant step. The attention we’ve are held in Israel because they are INFORMED DEBATE and other minority provinces. Do you been getting—from the Wall Street terrorists or are associated with think supporters avoid Chinese-made Journal to the Daily News; from Glenn extremist jihadist initiatives. electronics? Only Israel is the evil Beck to Chuck Schumer—suggests As for the insidious myth and DEAR EDITORS, country to them. others think so, too. If you disagree— slander of so-called Israeli I am a Coop member of 12 years, Trucks deliver to us using oil from if you think our Coop joining the boy- “apartheid,” refer to the NY Times and a Jew. While I would not support pillars of democracy/justice like Saudi cott would not make a difference to article by Richard Goldstone, “Israeli an all-Israel boycott by any means, I Arabia, Nigeria and Russia. Did I miss the lives of Palestinians, or if you sup- and the Apartheid Slander (11-1- am nonetheless grateful for the con- their outcry on that or regarding Turk- port Israel’s actions while occupying 2011). versation happening at the Coop. ish products and the treatment of the West Bank and Gaza—then I hope BDS is a major player in the game Many of my non-member Jewish Kurds and Armenians? you will consider supporting a refer- of distorting facts about Israel. Many friends, as well as local press, have Carefully avoiding buying food endum on the issue anyway. Let our people, including media profession- been blasting the Coop for engaging in from land ‘colonized’ by Israel, what membership decide, in the Coop’s als, have decried the absence of bal- a BDS debate. I have quite a problem foods do supporters buy? Certainly best democratic tradition. anced reporting about Israel. with this. There is so much hatred in nothing grown in the Western Hemi- Chris Seymour Please try to learn more about what the world that comes without educa- CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 Read the Gazette while you’re standing on line OR online at www.foodcoop.com 12_03-22 p01-20_Layout 1 3/21/12 5:54 PM Page 18

18  March 22, 2012 Park Slope Food Coop, Brooklyn, NY

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17 sphere, Australia and New Zealand to presented, (are we subject to the anti- Investment and development of the as Iran, Syria, Saudi Arabia or China? start. What do the supporters eat? boycotting legislation?), is no we are economy is the engine that will bring Further, why not impose a boycott When sick, will supporters refuse not because the statute is not intend- peace to the region. against US products as well? The US treatments for their parents and kids ed to regulate consumer boycotts. Please come to the March General occupies territory taken by force because the medical hardware/soft- In other words, there is no prohibi- Meeting and vote NO on holding the from native inhabitants. The US gov- ware is from Israel? Do they not eat tion to our Coop deciding whether to BDS referendum. ernment has been involved in illegal food grown in arid lands or green- buy or not to buy goods from Israel. Rhudi Andreolli and covert wars for decades, and houses because Israeli technology The focus of the legislation is the kills its own citizens and foreign- and products are used globally in this international stage and has to do with BDS? NO! born civilians abroad, including chil- industry? Are their homes free of (a) issues related to trade between dren, using drones. What leaves the Israeli designed Intel dual core nations, or (b) nations or large politi- United States exempt from similar processors and Microsoft software? cal organizations penalizing, intimi- DEAR MEMBERS, BDS efforts? Do they stay off the Internet and not dating or coercing those choosing , or I strongly oppose any BDS action The decision to buy Israeli prod- use computer security software as refusing, to boycott goods from Israel. taken by the Coop, and any BDS ucts rests with each member, not with Israel is home to firms in both areas? Michael Salgo specifically targeting Israeli products, any governing board or majority. If If the boycott is approved the Coop for these reasons: you oppose the majority imposing its would have to vet all these services BDS AND SODASTREAM Politically motivated boycotts vio- will on a minority, lead by example and stop using them if Israel designed late core Coop principles. Our Coop and oppose an enforced boycott or produced it. has a single membership tier. We all against Israeli products at our Coop. Perhaps BDS supporters would urge TO THE EDITOR: work, we all have our say. I have no Gregg Sanderson people in Bosnia or nations devastated The SodaStream carbonator is one right to force another member not to by tsunamis and natural disasters to of the products targeted as part of the buy any product for any political rea- NON-BDS TOPICS: refuse the assistance of Israeli search boycott of Israel. Not only does the son, and no governing board or and rescue and medical teams. Coop have over $150,000/year in gross majority has the right to impose a Israel is a democracy with many revenues from the sale of SodaStream similar restriction on me. To do so voices struggling with issues. America products, we are also collectively either assumes I'm ignorant of the COOP BUSINESS has a long painful history of our inter- keeping over half a million soda bot- politics involved, or I have the “wrong” nal struggles on civil, worker and tles out of the waste stream. opinion. Both assumptions are pater- DEAR EDITORS, equal rights, the environment etc. Not SodaStream has 18 production and nalistic and offensive. Imposing a Really looking forward to hearing too long ago blacks and whites could filling sites worldwide, with the pri- boycott pits Coop members against the financials and how many times not marry or even share bathrooms in mary one located in Mishor Adumim, each other: those who support the the Coop turns the merchandise. parts of our country. Change has to part of Zone C, an area designated as boycott against those who don't. By What I am actually interested in come from talks and compromise under Israeli control according to the leaving the choice up to the individ- seeing in writing and hearing about between the affected parties. There Oslo accords, and its final status is to ual, each member consults their own the following: are many positive ways to add your be determined through negotiations. mind and heart about their buying What does each category bring in voice to Mid East issues. BDS is not Despite claims to the contrary, there decisions. based on the square footage. one of them. is nothing illegal about either the fac- From the Coop's mission state- Produce Ultimately BDS has no answer to tory or its exports. ment: “We oppose discrimination in Dairy the central fairness question of their The Mishor Adumim facility was any form. We strive to make the Coop Cheese proposal—why is Israel the only built on deserted land leased in 1998. welcoming and accessible to all and Bulk Products country in the world that deserves to In the event that this area will be to respect the opinions, needs and Cereals be boycotted? We should quickly vote transferred to the new State of Pales- concerns of every member.“ Respect Candy Aisle down any proposal to boycott Israel, tine, it will be for the new authority to my opinion on Israel and let me make Vitamin Aisle put an end to this distraction and decide if they want to keep this plant, my own purchasing choices. Home Cleaning return our Coop to doing good work which employs hundreds of Palestini- From the membership manual: Pet Foods promoting good food and positive ans. It is a good business and would “First Principle: Voluntary and Open and the list goes on cooperative action. likely just end up paying taxes to the Membership. Cooperatives are volun- I would assume without knowing Stewart Pravda new entity and continue on. If asked, tary organizations, open to all per- that the produce department is pro- SodaStream will close this plant. sons able to use their services and ducing the most dollars with maybe The SodaStream factory employs willing to accept the responsibility of the largest store footage??? BDS AND FEDERAL LAW 300 Palestinian workers from the local membership, without gender, social, Issue #2 villages, who earn 4 to 6 times more racial, political or religious discrimi- What I have noticing lately, there DEAR EDITOR: than they would where they live. They nation.” Preventing me from buying are no workers and members are leav- I am the Coop attorney. In get social benefits—medical, mater- Israeli products is political discrimi- ing the Coop with the shopping cart? response to the on-going question of nity leave, etc., which is unheard of in nation. Are they bringing it back? whether the Coop is bound by the their villages. Independent auditing Boycotts punish citizens, not gov- And of course the shopping cart anti-boycott federal laws concerning companies have found the working ernments. They are ineffective at they are taking with them without the trade with Israel, I went to the U.S. conditions, compensation plan and influencing governmental policy. Boy- walker is the regular or mini shopping Department of Commerce website general employee atmosphere to be cotts are forms of economic war and cart, it is not the large shopping—the which enabled me to email an inquiry. excellent. Each worker is providing for only hurt the people of the targeted shopping cart that is only supposed I said we are 16,000+ members with the needs of approximately 10 people country. Did you support the illegal to be used is the large double decker more than $45million in annual sales, on his/her salary. Those who wish to wars in Iraq or Afghanistan, or are you meant for the bumps of Park Slopes and that there is an issue to be shut down the Mishor Adumim plant in favor of drone attacks? Why would streets. brought to our next general meeting do not have the Palestinian workers’ you punish a hummus maker because Issue #3 which seeks a boycott of Israeli goods best interests at heart. you oppose the actions of the Israeli Will there police be at the next from our Coop. I said that we did not Rather than targeted, SodaStream government? And if you think this board meeting??? wish to move forward with an issue should be recognized for its positive boycott will have little real impact on I want to vote but I do not want to that might violate the law, and asked contribution to the welfare of its the Israeli government's policies and be involved in any crazy, nightmare for guidance. employees and for bringing people is only symbolic, why do it and drag with uncontrollable people. Less than a week later I received a from different and often opposing others into it? I do not want to be in a fight, I do return phone call from Fred Davidson, backgrounds to work together in Why only target Israel? Based on not want to be anywhere near the cra- the Assistant Director for Policy at the peace and harmony. Palestinians, any stated reason for the boycott— zies. Department of Commerce. Mr. David- Israeli Arabs and Jews, Ethiopians, opposition to illegal occupation of Can I submit an absentee ballot? son first informed me that he had Russians, Americans and Bedouins, land, oppression of minority groups, Look at what is going on right outside already known of the issue having all work together, under one roof, at or civil rights violations—why is this the door—I have had enough of this. read Ginia Bellafante’s March 4th New the same production lines. SodaS- only applied to Israel? Why exempt I come to the Coop to buy my York Times article. Mr. Davidson made tream brings work to an area with other governments which have a far food—period—the end. it clear that the answer to the issue more than 30% unemployment. worse record on human rights, such Nadine Cohen Read the Gazette while you’re standing on line OR online at www.foodcoop.com 12_03-22 p01-20_Layout 1 3/21/12 5:54 PM Page 19

Park Slope Food Coop, Brooklyn, NY March 22, 2012  19 WELCOME!

A warm welcome to these new Coop members who have joined us in the last four weeks. We’re glad you’ve decided to be a part of our community. THANKS PSFC! leaders and activist in our small town to fight this industry. I thought it Amanda Lynn Akwei Christa Holder Alfredo Rios HI, makes for great story because our Wilson Alford Randall Holl Geraldine Rios Last April we demoed our breakfast Coop closer to home, Honest Weight Ada Anon Peter Hoppmann Nicole Rios cereal Mu Mu Muesli at the Coop. We Food Coop, is deciding to follow your Richard Baker Douglas Hubbard Lindsay Robinson were about to leave when a mem- lead and hopefully come out against Rebecca Balmer Andrew Hunter Daniel Rojo ber/worker Dave Pablo asked if we fracking. Dean Bell David Jacobson Shelly Ronen were going to a rally against fracking Thanks much, Emily Bennett-Coles Rita Jaskowitz Annie Rose in Albany the next day. We did not Mike Shuster from Mu Mu Muesli Erik Berg Marina Josefou Isa Rosenbloom even know what fracking was, we Emrys Berkower Gabriella Karl Alecia Rubino looked into and went to the rally, OUR Mindy Berkower Gelseigh Karl-Cannon David Rubino Brian G. Berman Freddie Keen Isabel Sadurni LIVES WERE CHANGED FOREEVER! FORGET THE CUP OF COFFEE William Best Margaret Kelly Rambo Andres Saldarriaga WE learned in our small town of Avni Bhatia Liz King Miriam Schiffer Sharon Springs we had over 70% of Scruffy man comes up Sonia Bhuta Kamal Kishore Alexandra Schmidt our counties’ leased land (over 5,000 Down Fifth Avenue, Taylor Blakin Elisabeth Knafo Eva Schneider acres) we educated our citizens and Says with urgency, Julia Block Hai Knafo Philip Schneider spoke up! “Got 99 cents havenue?” Amos Bloomberg Eugene Kogan Moriah Shapiro Long story short, Dave’s action led 99 cents is precisely Miriam Bogart Alexandra Korobova Marissa Shipman us to become as active as we can be What’s not in my pocket Sara Bouchard Ewelina Koszykowska David Silverberg and in two days our Village will be So I ask the poor fellow Marie Bova Alexandra Kotcheff Ashley Simcox passing a ban of drilling for natural What can be on his docket. Zachary Boyce Kareem Kouddous Laura Sitkin gas. THIS IS HUGE!! If it was not for Waving a scratched-up iPhone, Seth Bradley Kimberly Kreider Rachel Smith Simon Brandler Tammy Kremer Jonathan Snyder your educated membership we would Doffing his Yankees cap, Les Brown Raizel Krinsky Mark Snyder not have learned about natural gas Man explains his cadging— Creslyn Burnette (Mendy) Menachem Krinsky Doreen Sorrell drilling and what a nightmare it is and “I need it for an app.” Kelly Carlin Diana Kuan Esther Sosa we would have never have become Leon Freilich Coquito Cassibba Kristy LaRocca Stacey Spaulding Rossini Celestin Kara Larson Tamara Stanford COMMUNITY CALENDAR Yuen Chan Ellie Lassiter Ruby Stiler Genevieve Chow Roberta Lee Tullah Sutcliffe Petra Clairborne David Levi Anna Taiga Community calendar listings are free. Please submit your event listing in 50 Neal Cohen Rachel Lewett Anton Taiga words or less to [email protected]. Submission deadlines are Naomi Cohen-Thompson Jo Lewington Elizabeth Tarras the same as for classified ads. Please refer to the Coop Calendar in the Nicholas Cohen-Thompson Viktor Litvyakov Thabea Taschner center of this issue. An asterisk (*) denotes a Coop member. Jolene Collins Lyubov Litvyakova Justin Tate Sean Cronin Esther Llamas Alice Tavener FRI, MAR 23 SUN, MAR 25 Megan Cump Julia Lofredo Olivia Taylor Helen Dally Bonnie Long Jenna Teti 8 p.m. Bob Franke, Renowned Singer- 2-5 p.m. Greening Flatbush: Garden David Dash Stephanie Lowe Aubryn Thompson Songwriter, Concert at OSA Hall, 220 E. Where You Are engages and empowers Adrinne Day Curtis Macdonald Greta Thompson 23rd St, Suite 707 (between 2nd & 3rd people from all over Brooklyn to partici- Amy DeMarco Jeremy Malmon Nora Tillmanns Avenues), New York, 10010. $20 general; pate in creating sustainable urban neigh- Karishma Desai Clare Manchon Andrew Tolve children & full-time students free. Pre- borhoods. At the Flatbush Reformed Carolyn di Liberto Olivier Manchon David Turk sented by Folk Music Society of NY Info: Church (890 Flatbush Ave). Event is free, Jeff Dorfman Christopher Martin Julia Turk James Eden Jason Matos Haley Turner 212-957-8386 or www.folkmusicny.org. with a suggested donation of $10 for the Malika Edinborough Nicole McBride Tomomi Uemura event and the community meal. RSVP. Rosa Encarnacion Hilary McHone Brahm Vaccarella SAT, MAR 24 http://sustainableflatbush.org. David Estes Julian Mierlak Malcolm Varon Mark Farnen Matt Mili Benjamin Vega 1:30-4:30 p.m. 2 days (cont. on Sunday WED, MAR 28 Keira Ferber Leanna Miller Jennifer Vega 3/25). Songwriting Workshop with Bob James Fitzpatrick John Monti Andy Vernon-Jones Franke a renowned singer songwriter; 7-9 p.m. James Peterson discusses and signs Melissa Fitzpatrick Philip Mossman Marica Viczian Includes resources, individual inter- this revised version of his acclaimed cook- Janine Flasschoen Bitta Mostofi Yael Viner views, assignments, critiques, and book “Vegetables,” which features new Gretchen Fonda Stacey Murphy Brian Walters rewrite advice. $50. West Side Manhat- recipes and 500 full-color photos, with Tyler Fonda Dina Muscanell Karen Walters tan. Reservations & advance payment famed baker Nick Malgieri. The powerHouse Erika Forster Priya Nat Tiffany Wang Jeannine Fueller Cory Nellissen Ruby Wara-Goss required. Call 718-965-4074. Folk Music Arena at 37 Main Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201. Elisabeth Genn Tobia Neufeld Bayoan Ware Society of NY, Inc. For more information, please call 718.666.3049 Daniel Genova Yekaterina Nikitina Linda Wasylewski RSVP: [email protected]. Robert Gilbert Elizabeth Nuland Karana White 8-10:30 p.m. Peoples’ Voice Cafe Samuel Gimbel Yair Oelbaum Micah Wood Steve.Suffet & Anne Price with special 7 p.m. Busting the Self-Made Myth at the John Gizunterman Orlando Aruan Ortiz Vizcay Tracey Wood guest Beth Kotkin. At The Community NY Society for Ethical Culture (2 West Regina Gizunterman Natalia Ortiz Amia Yokoyama Church of New York Unitarian Universal- 64th Street, NY) Brian Miller (United for a Jonathan Goodman Levitt John C. Pale Jordan Young ist,40 East 35th St. (betw. Madison & Fair Economy) and Mike Lapham Dorothy Goodman Erin Parker Mark Zavelin Park). For info call 212-787-3903 (Responsible Wealth Director) will dis- Daniel Gordon Kathleen Pequeno Sofya Zavelina www.peoplesvoicecafe.org. Suggested cuss their book, The Self-Made Myth: And the Gail Gove Marisa Perez Elizabeth Zeeuw donation: $15-18 general/$10 members. Truth About How Government Supports Individ- Alice Grandoit Katherine Perkins Maya Ziv Andrew Gregory Kirsten Peterson ual and Business Success. The event will Rona Gruia Lyudmil Petrov include lively discussions. Jade Hall Brigit Pinnell Tal Hanuna Angelina Pinto SAT, MAR 31 Alexandra Hartman Jessica Polaniecki Erick Henry Kristin Porter 8-10:30 p.m. Peoples’ Voice Cafe Toby Carolina Herrera Abdul Powell Fagenson; Caroline Cutroneo & Mara Whitney Hess Junko Powell Levine; Gathering Time.At The Communi- Maite Hierro Rachel Pratt ty Church of New York Unitarian Univer- Evan Hill Carlos Quintana salist,40 East 35th St. (betw. Madison & John Hill Bill Radtke Park). For info call 212-787-3903 Sarah Hill Neil Rambo Chana Hoffinger Yoga Rangatia www.peoplesvoicecafe.org.Suggested Chananya Hoffinger Candice Ribar donation: $15-18 general/$10 members.

Read the Gazette while you’re standing on line OR online at www.foodcoop.com 12_03-22 p01-20_Layout 1 3/21/12 5:54 PM Page 20

20  March 22, 2012 Park Slope Food Coop, Brooklyn, NY

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Classified advertising in the Linewaiters’ Gazette is available only to Coop members. Publication does not imply endorsement by the Coop. Read the Gazette while you’re standing on line OR online at www.foodcoop.com