The Melon Underground Ep 3 – Cooperatives & the Tacoma Food Co-op with Julio Quan
by The Melon
In this episode of The Melon Underground, Electric Elliot sits down with peace negotiator, human rights activist and former Director of Centro Latino, Julio Quan to talk about the Cooperative movement and Tacoma’s plan for a Food Co-op.
Find out more about TFC at http://www.tacomafoodcoop.com/
Part 1:
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Part 2:
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May 22nd, 2009 at 12:36 pm
What I want to know is, why is it taking so long for the COOP to get going, and could they please set a date for opening rather than continuing to form committee after committee that just sits and talk about the problems rather than opening the doors of this new venture? I’ve been a member from practically the very beginning, but I have heard absolutely nothing about what is going on, and even looking at their blog and new website tells me nothing. What’s the deal?
I’m still in support of the Coop, but I think the leadership needs to be more open about what is going on and more concrete about an opening date.
The Co-op needs to move past the “learning stage” that Quan talks about and into the active stage. He dodged the interviewer’s question of “what is holding up the co-op from starting” to talk about this being a learning and growing process for all. I’d like to point out that this “learning stage” is being done with members’ money, like mine, so I’d love to know what’s being done!
A solid update on the co-op’s page would quell my frustrations and make me trust what is going on a bit more.
Reply
Jen Drake Reply:
May 28th, 2009 at 8:19 am
@P.T.,
I agree it’s been a very slow process, and I’ve wondered what’s going on too since I haven’t heard much else, but I DO know they are looking for people to actively join their committees, if nothing else! On their new yet almost-no-information website (currently being updated), they do have a place to contact them about volunteering and getting involved. Definitely have to give huge kudos for opening that up in a proactive way!
Maybe you should contact them about helping out? Sounds like you are passionate about this Coop venture, and I agree it is definitely needed here in Tacoma!
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June 7th, 2009 at 9:22 pm
I am happy to report that the food coop is having their first summer potluck at Franklin Park Picnic shelter, South 12th and Puget Sound on June 24, a Wednesday, from 5:30-7:30 p.m.
If anyone wants to join, bring a dish to share. Apparently the Board (such as Quan), are bringing the drinks!
This would be a great time to show up and talk to the Board about concerns, ways to get involved, and a general update on what is happening.
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Nelle Rose Reply:
June 15th, 2009 at 12:41 pm
@Jen Drake, Great to have found there’s a potluck on June 24 where prospective members can get an update in a social setting and work towards closing the Tacoma gap.
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