Well, the wild visioning rumpus, at least. Not as colorful as Max’s monster rumpus in Where the Wild Things Are, perhaps, but exciting for the Co-op’s future.

I’ve been writing for some time about the council’s plans to renew the Co-op’s 2012 Vision and Strategic Plan. A committee led by Council Vice President Jeff Roberts has begun work, and the council’s annual Dinner and Discussion with members is dedicated to getting input on a renewed vision.

Co-op Connects on Sunday, June 8, Sunday, noon – 1 pm with the General Manager (GM) and one or two Council Members  

The monthly Co-op Connects, with GM Mary Mullally and me – and probably another council member – will be Sunday, June 8, from noon to 1 pm. Please stop by to talk about the future of the Co-op, sing “June is Bustin’ Out All Over” to us, or chat (or sing) about whatever else is on your mind. Look for the signage about where to find us.  

CCMA—the annual national conference for food co-ops 

As I mentioned in the last newsletter, I was headed to Duluth for a gathering of food co-op leaders from around the country, CCMA. Last year it was in Portland, Maine, and we sent a total of six staff and council members. I was the only one from Hunger Mountain Co-op that made the journey to northern Minnesota for this year’s, and there’s a lot to report to the rest of the crew. Look for reports in future newsletters. 

I’ve already started talking to people about one idea from the board of Moscow Food Co-op in western Idaho; they have been inviting leaders of community nonprofits to give a 20-minute presentation at the beginning of each monthly board meeting. They spoke highly of these presentations and the stronger connections the co-op could make to its community through them. Are you connected with a nonprofit that would appreciate a chance to present your work to the council? As a member, would you enjoy watching these presentations via Zoom at the beginning of council meetings? Please let me know at the email address below. 

The Wrap 

A woman walked into the doctor’s office, with a strawberry growing out of her head. The doctor told her, “I can give you some cream to put on that.” 

—Carl Etnier, Council President

Do you have any questions or comments about the council? Do you know any jokes even faintly related to food and/or co-ops? Please email them to me!