Member Vote Coming Soon: Proposed Bylaws Changes
In last month’s Honest Slate, we shared that the Governance Review Council (GRC) brought forward a concern about past salary increases granted to direct reports of the Coop’s top management person.
The Bylaws Panel (BLP) carefully reviewed this issue. As part of that work, the BLP held two feedback sessions open to all MOs and also reached out to the Board of Directors and management for further input. Based on that feedback and discussion, the BLP concluded that the Bylaws should be clarified— both to prevent similar situations in the future and to ensure our Co-op continues to operate fairly and effectively. Now it’s time for you—our Member-Owners—to decide.
Proposed Bylaws changes will be up for a vote at the Regular Membership Meeting on Sunday, October 26, 2025. Your participation is vital. These decisions shape how we work together and strengthen our commitment to transparency and accountability.
Before the vote, you’re warmly invited to attend one of our informational Zoom sessions to learn more, ask questions, and share your perspective: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81073676905
Phone Login info: Meeting ID 810 7367 6905 Wed., Oct. 15 • 7pm Sat., Oct. 18 • 11am Each session will last about an hour. Please mark your calendar and join us on October 26. Every MO’s voice and vote matters.
Meet the GRC Candidates
Two sessions are slated: Thurs., Oct. 23, 7–8pm and Sun., Oct. 26, 1:30–2:30pm same Zoom login as above
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For the Good of the Co-op: An Interview with Sam Raj
by Brendan Byrne
Sam Raj didn’t plan to run for the Governance Review Council (GRC). He had been investing hours in the Grocery Department, where he stocked and shelved during Covid. This afforded Sam an opportunity to get to know the different kinds of people who came into HWFC, which he really enjoyed. During a Regular Membership Meeting, the GRC came up. Someone asked if anyone wanted to run for it, and somehow Sam ended up running. “I’m not sure if I volunteered or someone nominated me. It’s all a bit blurry now,” Sam recalled, laughing.
An IT engineer, Sam migrated to the US from India in 2006. Since then, he’s lived in Minnesota, Texas, Ohio, Washington, DC, and New York state. In 2019, Sam moved back to Albany after some time away. He and his partner found themselves doing all their shopping at the Co-op. Someone mentioned that they saw them every week and asked if they were members. Sam initially had no idea what being a member meant, but he soon learned and got involved.
Sam joined the GRC in 2022 and became impressed by what he saw, especially how passionate everyone was working together. He mentioned that being on the GRC involves dealing with a wide range of issues that crop up at the Co-op. “I don’t associate those issues with the people who bring them in,” Sam said. “I see it as ‘maybe there’s something we can improve’ not as ‘here’s something there’s not right.’”
Serving on the GRC has allowed Sam to truly appreciate how many great things the Co-op does. He is impressed by how HWFC stands for inclusion, human rights, and equality in a time when these values are under threat. He recommends serving on the GRC as a way to
see how HWFC operates in real time. It allows those who serve not only to do something good, but also to work for the longevity of the Co-op.
Sam also appreciates how the Co-op fills a hole in the Capital Region by creating access to high-quality, organic food. He loves how everyone is so personable and goes out of their way to help you. And Sam enjoys watching people come together to work for “the good of the Co-op.”
Sam also offers Indian cooking classes at the Co-op along with his partner, Mike Wilk. An immigration lawyer by profession, Mike helps with planning and logistics. (The next class is at 6pm on Oct. 18!)
Sam also enjoys helping out at our electronics recycling & upcycling drives. He expressed a lot of respect for Stasia, HWFC’s Education and Engagement Specialist, and enjoys working with them on all kinds of projects.
The GRC meets on the second Monday of each month at 7pm. GRC elections will happen during the Oct. 26 RMM beginning at 6pm. As Sam says, the GRC “is an opportunity for everybody to be part of the journey.”
Get to Know an MO: Meet Nancy Perini and Alan Thomson
by Marilyn Paarlberg
Not too many people are appointed ambassadors in an official context. Informally, though, an ambassador is someone who speaks highly of an organization or endeavor from personal experience, an endorsement that fosters positive interactions and outcomes all around.
In that sense, MOs Nancy Perini and Alan Thomson are “organic” HWFC ambassadors of the best kind.
By nature and training, Nancy and Alan exemplify personal values of commitment to others. A musician, Alan recalls that as a young child “there was a piano in the house and nothing else to do,” so he started lessons at age 7. “My boogie-woogie got attention!” he laughs.
He went on to earn degrees at Crane School of Music at SUNY Potsdam and The College of Saint Rose, focusing on performance, jazz, classical, and pit orchestra piano. Among other outlets, he has shared his love for music by giving private piano lessons for over 50 years.
Nancy completed her bachelor’s degree at Queens College CUNY, and her master’s in elementary education at SUNY Stony Brook. She went on to teach at various elementary grade levels, and especially loved teaching math.
What kept her in that challenging field for her entire professional career? “I felt that I was not just their teacher, but a part of my students’ families for a year. I loved being able to instill the enjoyment of learning from a young age, and also giving helpful feedback to parents.”
Apart from their respective vocations, what else are Nancy and Alan good at, and what are they still learning? Nancy responds that she’s good at cooking, and Alan concurs without hesitation. Her father was a mail carrier who occasionally brought home unclaimed food magazines. Nancy loved reading them, and remembers that, from a young age, her parents gave her full free-
dom and support to cook. That said, she explains that she’s still learning, especially since she began to follow a vegan diet. As the primary cook, this was a major adjustment for her as well as for Alan, but she feels she’s on the cusp of mastering vegan cuisine. Once again Alan agrees wholeheartedly. “It was an exercise in flexibility and I wanted to support her.”
In that vein, Alan replies that he’s good at being a thoughtful partner. (“Or so I’m told,” he amends with a smile toward Nancy, and now it’s her turn to concur!) Alan is also good at repairing things, and by this point in the interview, it seems like a natural segue to learn that in addition to teaching piano he leads self-awareness workshops for teen and adult men. He adds that he’s still learning on all of these fronts.
How are these skills and inherent sensibilities manifested at HWFC? Alan invests his MO time in the Bulk Department, where, he reflects, “Overall, I just try to be a good guy with customers and coworkers.” He warmly characterizes the ambience in Bulk as “a little village where everybody learns together.”
“Honest Weight is a very good reason to live here!”
Nancy Invests her time in Grocery, mostly in Aisle 1. She notes that besides being an avid cook, she’s a natural planner (she’s been reusing a particular jar in their kitchen for 28 years!). She applies those habits and skills at the Co-op as she organizes shelves in a logical and attractive arrangement, and also enjoys sharing back-and-forth ideas with customers about Aisle 1 ingredients and how they can be used in creative and tasty ways.
Alan, an Albany native, first learned of the Co-op in 1978 from a physician who had advised him about a health product that might be found at “a little co-op on Quail Street.” Nancy, having grown up in Brooklyn and Queens, was somewhat familiar with
the fledgling, now iconic, Park Slope Food Coop, but her appreciation and support for the food cooperative model was cemented when she moved to Albany and started shopping at the Central Avenue location, where she was an MO for a few years until her teaching limited her free time. She resumed her MO service in 2021 after she retired.
Bulk is “a little village where everybody learns together.”
Did it take convincing for Alan to become an MO? Nancy admits that because such a large percentage of Alan’s time was spent at home preparing and giving as many as 30 piano lessons a week, she nudged him to think about getting out more and giving the Co-op a try. He took her up on it in 2010, and has been a “good guy” in Bulk ever since.
In addition to the personal enjoyment of working in their respective departments, Nancy and Alan enjoy sharing stories with each other about adventures and interesting people they experience during their shifts.
What else do they appreciate about HWFC besides the people? The food, of course! Alan is particularly impressed with the seafood, and Nancy compliments the Produce Department. “Everything is kept fresh, clearly labeled, and the staff is so knowledgeable and helpful!”
Together, Nancy and Alan cite the Co-op’s commitment to healthy food, sustainability, and social justice. “This place and these people do such good work,” they agree. Alan concludes the interview emphatically: “Honest Weight is a very good reason to live here!”
High praise based on personal experience. Positive interactions and outcomes all around. Spoken like true ambassadors! Thank you, Nancy and Alan, for your service and your support.
Chronicles Community Room
The variety of excellent community workshops held at Honest Weight continues to make our Co-op not only a thoroughly enjoyable shopping experience, but the place to be when folks feel like venturing out to meet their neighbors and learn a skill or two. Michael Rosenthal, our newest Honest Slate contributor, reports back on three workshops he attended this past month.
The Capital District Earth Repair Meetup is a gathering for those who share a passion for environmentalism. It is an ongoing, open discussion on topics such as food systems, degrowth, mutual aid, and permaculture. The facilitator, Rich Daley of Sunray Sustainability, kept the dialogue flowing by ensuring all were given a chance to speak and collaborate based on their comfort level. Participants traded thoughts, theories, experiences, and words of encouragement for ecologically responsible living. I also learned what a serviceberry is.*
Marketing 101 with Michael, for the entrepreneurs in our midst, helps attendees define and articulate their story—the core of any effective marketing campaign. Michael Degnan, creative producer/director for Upstate Pictures, presented on industry tips and tricks, then led the group through a brainstorming session where all could evaluate our own marketing goals and challenges. I came out with some great, out-ofthe-box ideas!
Finally, Writing 101: Intensive Writing Session with Ellen is a great way for aspiring and experienced writers to reconnect with their inner voice. Author Ellen Higgins, PhD, led a series of creative and introspective exercises with prompts that ranged from the comedic to the philosophical. Participants were welcome to share their work with the group or simply hang back and enjoy the experience.
Keep an eye on the event calendar for all the upcoming workshops and stay tuned!
*edible purple or red fruit of any of various North American trees or shrubs [genus Amelanchier] that provide screening and habitat for wildlife.
Honest Slate
RUN → GRC RUN → GRC
Do you love Honest Weight?
Are you passionate about democratic values, transparent leadership, and member-driven decision-making? Do you want to play an active role in upholding the integrity of the Co-op’s cooperative structure?
Then consider running for a seat on the GRC at the next Regular Membership Meeting, scheduled for October 26, 2025
What Is the GRC?
The GRC is an elected body of Member-Owners tasked with promoting good governance at Honest Weight.
The GRC helps ensure that decisions made by the Board, management, and Membership align with the Co-op’s bylaws and cooperative principles. The GRC is essential to keeping Honest Weight Member-run, transparent, and cooperative.
Why Run?
• Support the Co-op’s democratic foundation and earn investment hours
• Work collaboratively to uphold our cooperative principles
• Review policies, ensure accountability
• Gain governance and community leadership experience
AlBany Repair Café Sat., Oct. 11 • 1–4pm
We had such a great time at our Spring Repair Café that we’re doing it again!
Run for a seat on the Governance Review Council and help to ensure good governance at Honest Weight!
What Does the GRC Do?
• Reviews Board and Co-op policies to ensure they follow our Bylaws
• Considers and investigates governance concerns or disputes
• Recommends improvements to governance practices
• Assists in maintaining official records of Bylaws and policy
• Serves as a resource for the Membership and the Board
Who Can Run?
To be eligible, you must:
• Be a current MO of the Co-op as defined by Bylaws section 240.2
• Not be a current Board member
In addition, you should have the time and willingness to participate in monthly meetings and related activities.
How to Nominate Yourself
Nominating yourself is easy! Visit GRC’s page at https://www.honestweight.coop/ page/grc-100.html for details on:
• How to apply
• What information to submit
• Important deadlines
See you at the October RMM and hope you may be willing to serve on the GRC!
Bring your broken treasures and join us on Saturday, October 11, from 1–4pm at the Co-op.
We’ll have skilled repair coaches on hand to help with all kinds of items—jewelry, lamps, knife sharpening, furniture—you name it, we’ll at least give it a try!
Repair Cafés benefit everyone: you save money, keep cherished items in use, and help the planet by reducing waste. Come learn, share, and connect with your community!
Items will be fixed on a first-come, firstserved basis; only one item is repaired at a time. Those bringing multiple items will need to get back in line after each item is attended to. Since this is a teaching event, you must stay with the object as it is being fixed by the repair coach. The last item to be fixed will be at 3:30pm.
Book Club Soars with Avian Brilliance
by Irene Kim
The Genius of Birds by Jennifer Ackerman
On Sept. 18, about 16 book club aficionados gathered to discuss The Genius of Birds (2016) by Jennifer Ackerman. This book explores birds’ ability to adapt to their environment, survive challenging conditions as their habitat and food sources are altered or decimated, and solve new problems that arise daily.
The author defines genius as “a flair for meeting environmental and social challenges with acumen and flexibility, which many birds seem to possess in abundance.”
Combating the expression “bird brain,” Ackerman describes researchers’ findings in measuring birds’ capabilities and talents in a range of areas—not only famous examples like crows’ acumen for toolmaking and starlings’ ability to flock together at a millisecond’s notice, but also lesser-known examples like the chickadee’s huge range of communication modes, the pigeon’s astounding navigational capabilities, and the mockingbird’s and the bower bird’s seemingly limitless talent for mimicry. She discusses birds’ evolution from dinosaurs to current times; and how tradeoffs in weight, environment, flight capabilities, social considerations, and other factors have shaped the brains and behavior of various species of birds today.
Club leader Cara Benson described the author’s approach to exploring birds’ brain function as correlating to tools, songs, sociability, art and aesthetics, mapping, and so forth; talking about how birds developed their current skills; and comparing birds’ brains to those of humans. She kicked off discussion by asking readers what they thought about the author’s repeated cautions against anthropomorphizing birds, repeated comparison of birds to humans, and casual mention of research experiments that might be questionable in their invasiveness.
Club attendees’ far-ranging comments ranged from the problems of ascribing hu-
man behavior to birds and other nonhuman animals, to the necessity of cruelty in animal testing, to solipsistic conversations on just how possible it is to escape one’s own perspective and truly sympathize with any other being.
Participants offered a spectrum of views on research approaches. On one hand, a reader mentioned, scientific testing is necessary and leads to important discoveries even if experiments harm or kill animals (millions of mice are hurt and killed annually). Another made a distinction between liking a study and understanding it. On the other hand, another expressed feeling appalled about researchers conducting a study as recently as a decade ago that involved snipping nerves and installing magnets in birds’ brains to study behavior. Another responded that this was simply necessary work to generate a data point.
Some talked about how the book had given them a new lens to appreciate birds’ intelligence. Discussion inspired some who hadn’t read the book to better appreciate birds in their own backyards.
In terms of birds’ genius, people mentioned examples like certain species’ quick adaptation to climate change: flying higher or finding new food sources. They pointed out that all other animals, including humans, will similarly have to learn to adapt—prompting Cara’s comment that birds are the canaries in the coal mine.
She added that bird populations have been plummeting for decades due to habitat loss and predation by domestic cats. In terms of different species’ intelligence, she pointed out, we humans are singularly talented at destroying our own habitat and resources—and are of questionable intelligence ourselves. One person noted that perhaps humans will disappear from the earth while birds manage to survive.
Concerning anthropomorphizing nonhumans, Cara described the author dividing our bird observations into two camps: those with romantic, often anthropomorphized, views of bird behavior versus those she
called “killjoys,” who seem to seek the driest, most clinical scientific explanation of behavior.
For example, when a raven is bullied by another, bystander ravens will quickly come to console the victim. In the romantic view, the consoler could be feeling sympathy for the victim. In the killjoy explanation, the consoler is simply trying to reduce the signs of stress for the social group to benefit the entire group.
One person spoke about how humans’ gradual estrangement from our environment has led to our spiritual separation from other animals. For example, some societies that quickly developed their agricultural and industrial capabilities became separated from the land and other animals, coming to view them as resources to be exploited; yet other cultures continue to revere and feel connected to animals, trees, rocks, water, and everything nature provides. An attendee stated that our research into animal behavior is part of our attempt to claw our way back to a better relationship with our surroundings and fellow earth dwellers.
Those present agreed that sometimes birds are just endearing. One mentioned seeing a video of a pigeon who repeatedly brought straw and other soft materials to make a nest for a cat who was giving birth to kittens. Cara spoke of her own experience with a one-legged chickadee that had come to her feeder over the winter. The chickadee visited the feeder often and ended up eating out of Cara’s hand.
Cara, whose beloved late partner was an accomplished birder, spoke unabashedly of how much affection she had developed for the chickadee. She herself is writing a book about birds.
Reminder: If you find a wild animal in distress, contact the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). For urgent situations, call the wildlife hotline, 1-844-DEC-ECOS. If the situation is not urgent, find a wildlife rehabilitator through the DEC’s search tool at https://appfactory.dec.ny.gov/SpecialLicensesSearchSystem/rehab.
Q & A Q & A SUGGESTION BOX
Suggestion Box answers are provided by our Honest Weight managers and departments.
Q: Could we have rotating coffee flavors/ types in the carafes in the café? They have not changed in years.
A: We have a contract with Capital City Coffee Roasters and are introducing an HWFC roast partnered with Capital City this fall.
Q: Please bring back Sriracha Tofu!
A: We have discontinued our Sriracha Tofu because of space considerations in the chill zone.
Q: Powdered bulk: Any way to get funnels to get spices into spice jars with minimal spillage?
A: We typically have them available. Please feel free to ask for one if you do not see any.
Q: Why are you using seed oils in your food? They’re high in omega-6 and cause inflammation in the body. You guys are supposed to be healthy. C’mon.
A: Sorry you’re not a fan of our oil choices. At this time, we do not have plans to change our oil options.
GF Sweet Potato Bread GF Sweet Potato Bread
With sweet potatoes marking the beginning of fall, what better way to celebrate than with a healthy spin on sweet potato bread? This recipe inspired by my niece abounds in vitamins A & C, fiber, protein, and healthy fats.
Ingredients:
1 1/4 cups cooked and pureed sweet potatoes, skin removed (340 grams)
5 eggs (287 grams)
1/2 cup avocado oil (115ml)
1/4 cup maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 cups almond flour (285 grams)
2 Tbs ground flaxseed (15 grams)
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp fine sea salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Q: Please sell California sushi made from shrimp instead of fake crab. J
A: Please feel free to order a California sushi roll with shrimp at the counter.
Q: Bring back the old vegan mac ’n cheese. Loved it! J
A: Thank you but we have no plans to bring it back at this time as it was not moving well.
Q: Parking lot pavement. Ow! My coffee spills all over…and my wrists [hurt] just pushing the cart over the rough surface. Is this a design feature?
A: Parking lot improvements are in our 2026 capital improvement plans. We’re consulting engineers to ensure we do it correctly.
Q: The best GF scone: cranberry with icing!!
A: Thank you! We’re glad you enjoyed them. We’ll look into bringing them back in the future.
Q: Grace (cashier on Thursday mornings) is the best!!!
Q: 10+ year MO asks: Can we please have the price checkers brought back into service? The one by the dairy has been gone for months and the one by waters has been occasionally out of order. Thank you!
A: Both price checkers are currently operational.
Q: Please make 9” pie size, would be better size and I would buy them all the time. J
A: Our pies are 9” size.
Q: Please provide Courtesy Clerk magnetic tags. Lanyards get caught on bags. Thank you.
A: Thank you for the suggestion. We’ll make some available.
Q: Would it be possible to have more magnetic badges; e.g., Parking Lot, Tare Tech, Courtesy Clerk, etc.? Thank you.
A: Please request a tag when you start your shift. If you do not see one, we can make a fresh one.
A: Grace is a ray of sunshine and we are lucky to have her here in the Front End! Thanks for taking the time to write your kind words!
Directions:
• Preheat oven to 350º and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
• In a small bowl beat eggs, avocado oil, and maple syrup until frothy. Add vanilla; stir in pureed sweet potatoes.
• In a large bowl whisk together dry ingredients.
• Add wet ingredients to dry; stir until well mixed. Stir in walnuts.
• Fill prepared loaf pan and even out the top with a spatula.
Bake at 350º for 40 minutes; reduce temp to 325º and bake for about another 20 minutes. Bread is done when internal temp reads 200º or an inserted toothpick comes out clean.
Let cool in pan for 10 minutes; remove and let cool on rack for another 20 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
–Nina
Martinson, ENC
Honest Slate 6
B o a r d Decisions
At the Oct. 7, 2025, HWFC Board of Directors meeting, the Board:
• Approved the Sept. 2, 2025, Board of Directors Meeting Minutes as submitted.
• Changed Nov. 2025 meeting to 2nd Tuesday (Nov. 11) due to Election Day conflict (Nov. 7).
• Approved revised Personnel Committee 2025–26 work plan as submitted.
• Recommended Voluntary Member-Owner Emergency Hours Bank text as submitted by Membership Committee to Membership for MO Manual inclusion; to vote at Jan. 2026 RMM.
• Approved DEI Committee 2025–26 work plan as submitted (total hours outlined are monthly).
• Reappointed Saul Rigberg to BLP for 2-year term (Nov. 1, 2025–Oct. 31, 2027).
• Approved the following updated job descriptions as presented:
· Cooperative Leadership Manager (CLM), with the understanding that “IT Manager” will be revised to “IT Administrator” as the current, correct title.
· IT Administrator.
· Facilities Manager.
· Operations Manager.
· Manager on Duty with review/updates as needed.
· Outreach Specialist.
·Membership Manager with edits in overview section as discussed.
· 2026 RMM dates: Sun., Jan. 25, Sun, April 26, Sun., June 28, and Sun., Oct. 25.
• Meeting adjourned 10:20 pm.
Editors & Contributors
David Bulnes
Brendan Byrne
Julie Cohen
Stephanie Conde
Elisa Grimm
Cindee Herrick
Irene Kim
Christine Konsistorum
Don Kennison
Democracy Webinar Inspires Member-Owners at In-Store Event
HWFC’s Board hosted an in-person event at the Co-op Sat., Oct. 4, and again Monday, Oct. 6, featuring “Grocery Democracy,” a webinar produced and presented by authors John Steinman (Grocery Democracy) and John Restakis (Humanizing the Economy), both with histories of cooperative involvement. About 45 people attended the two sessions. including Board members John van Bladel (facilitator), Joseph Casan, Ursula Abrams, Kristin Fischetti, and Chris Johnson, and Karen Roth, temporary Membership Manager.
Takeaways from the seminar:
• Democracy and co-ops are inseparable.• Democracy and connection are one and the same. • Co-ops are essentially the application of democratic values in the economy.
• Encourage nonpartisan language and the communication of agency.
• Valuing not only the material, but also the social-emotional component of its operation, is fundamental to a co-op’s identity.
“There is a role for co-ops in meeting this moment.”
Did you know that…
• A French co-op prominently prints its profit margin right on a beverage label.
• One British co-op has its own human rights and trade policy.
• Japan’s award-winning, 400,000-member Seikatsu Club has provided ethical, affordable, safe food for “right livelihood” since 1965. So strong is its influence that it regular-
octoBer 2O 25
Nina Martinson
Janel Modoski
Carol Ostrow
Anastasia Rogers
Michael Rosenthal
Karen Roth
Robin Schatz
Janet Sorell
honestslate@honestweight.coop Contact with questions, comments, & ideas.
Submissions Policy
• Maximum article length is 800 words.
• Material is published at the discretion of the Honest Slate team.
• Only signed work is accepted. Items are edited for length, grammar, & style.
• We may consider unsolicited material but encourage submitting ideas first.
• Letters to the Editor do not require preapproval.
ly elects candidates to political office.
• An authentic indigenous seafood co-op is forming in British Columbia.
Co-ops are a key component for the operation and health of modern communities.
Co-ops aim to collectively regain a measure of control via small farmers, artisans, and crafters who were once displaced by the industrial revolution.
Co-ops also operationalize democracy by giving to and supporting community groups, such as local nonprofits.
We are all ultimately responsible for taking care of each other.
MO Comments:
“Democracy shows up on the shelves.”
“The majority of MOs don’t realize what we do. We should promote something bigger than the store.”
“Think of HWFC as a leader, not just different.”
“Celebrate dissent! It means people still care. Conflict in co-ops is healthy.”
“Democracy is messy.”
“We grow from adversity.”
“To cause change...continue building this beautiful thing and be proactive in using our consumer power to stop buying elsewhere.”
“People ask me if I work here, and I say ‘No, I own the place!’”
Statement of Purpose:
Honest Slate is a platform for HWFC Membership, Staff, Management, and Governance: promoting transparency, reporting news without bias, and sustaining community.
Honest Slate articles are for informational purposes and are not intended to diagnose or treat disease. Opinions expressed in Honest Slate do not necessarily represent the views or policies of Honest Slate or Honest Weight Food Co-op.
All contents ©2025 Honest Weight Food Coop; no material appearing in Honest Slate may be reproduced in any form without the express written consent of HWFC.
COMMITTEE CORNER
A summary of preliminary committee reports submitted to the Board of Directors (BOD) for its October 7, 2025, meeting. See Board Meeting packet for details. Board-approved committee reports are posted on HWFC’s website. Our committees help to run Honest Weight. See if there is a committee for you.
by Stephanie Conde
Anti-Racism Committee (ARC)
∙ Discussed what kind of trainings to offer at Co-op; each meeting’s starting format; and assigning people to subcommittees to realize ARC work plan.
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Committee (DEIC)
∙ Finalized work plan; submitted to BOD for review and approval.
Governance Review Council (GRC)
∙ Approved August minutes.
∙ Shared Sept. 2 BOD meeting.
∙ Discussed the GRC’s responsibility for “Strive to Avoid” as topic is now part of a petition for RMM. [Note: GRC facilitated discussion of “Strive to Avoid” among stakeholders.]
∙ Monitoring development of Conflict Resolution Policy/Problem Solving Guide, particularly Peer Review Panel portion.
∙ RMM prep: Meet the Candidate sessions, PowerPoint update, ballot box observer.
Bylaws Panel (BLP)
∙ Discussed October information sessions for changes on how raises are given. First session during regular Oct. 15 meeting. Second meeting Oct. 18 in hybrid form at HWFC (Julie, Saul, Brett, Cathy and possibly Daniel will attend).
∙ Discussed PowerPoint presentation of proposed changes to Membership. Julie, Rich and Margaret to present at meeting; Cathy to create PowerPoint file.
∙ Member Services Manager job title change (referred to BLP by Kirsten Fischett): decided modification should be presented; float idea of making a Bylaws change that would make it easier in the future to change a position title in the Bylaws without undertaking full process normally required for other Bylaws changes. Would be limited to changing only job titles if and as they happen.
∙ Discussed BLP appointees’ status.
∙ Will rerun Honest Slate article on proposed Bylaws changes with focus on actual RMM vote on changes along with keeping information about information sessions.
∙ Requests of BOD: Saul R. requests reappointment to BLP as his current term expires Oct. 31. Can the RMM Bylaws October vote include correct title change for Membership Manager (one occurrence)?
Nutrition & Education Committee (NEC)
∙ Discussed changes to Food & Product Manual (FPM), primarily Section 7.
∙ Discussed introducing some structure to NEC by giving members responsibilities for committee projects.
∙ Discussed planning to present proposed FPM changes at Oct. BOD meeting.
∙ Discussed adding items to Section 8 (“not knowingly sell”).
∙ FPM copies printed with new face sheet documenting updates. Requested BOD approve new FPM heading and cover sheet.
Communications Committee (CC)
∙ Reviewed October Honest Slate material and planned November’s issue, including coverage for webinar and other Membership events.
∙ email honestslate@honestweight.coop
∙ Next copy deadline is Oct. 23.
∙ Next publishing dates are Oct. 10/Nov. 14.
Personnel Committee (PC)
∙ Updates: Additional staff position / committee—explanation/vote process. Strategic and Long-Range Planning—shared goals discussion (Peer Review Panel, inclusion of anti-racism and DEI frameworks in People Policies, Shared Value reflections in Conduct Policies, and Employee Engagement Survey to gain insight and direction for Strategic Planning). Problem Solving Policy— arbitration language addition (unanimous vote to include).
∙ Ad hoc meeting / Peer Review Panel Training Design Sept. 18. Discussed approach and content, sources and commitment to review, and plan for mid-October completion.
∙ Requests of BOD. (1) Awaiting problem solving questions or additions for next Personnel meeting. (2) Revision of work plan to allow more Membership hours for ad hoc Peer Review Panel Work (additional hours, total annual possible hours 126, up from 90 to account for 2 hours available over 3 MOs over 12 months). This is reflected in ad hoc commitments to strengthen Peer Review Panel as part of our Problem-Solving policy handbook improvement; preparing training and compliance program that supports staff involved.
Elections & Nominations Committee (ENC)
∙ Discussed Strategic and Long-Range Planning (SLRP) Committee’s request for future strategic planning (next 3-5 years) based on Bylaw 469.1. Brainstormed Co-op’s challenges and opportunities. Committee chairs will compile feedback and confirm that conversation points and recommendations were captured correctly for future sharing, as anticipated.
∙ Discussed preparation for October RMM/ GRC Election. Walked through near-term election tasks for due dates, owners and actions needed. Thanks to Anastasia R. and Liza M. for immediately responding to requests for publicity support for recruitment purposes. ENC plans to meet in person to more formally document multi-vote cross check for eligibility and to ensure one Member[-Owner] / one vote with various voting forms.
∙ Discussed prioritizing suggested election improvements (from Aug. ENC Report) including list of suggestions from June 4 discussion with Kristin Fischetti (as BOD candidate) to prioritize list; made recommendations. Chris facilitated asking BOD about fingerprinting for liquor license; indicated that not all BOD candidates do this—the practice appears inconsistent as BOD Manual states all directors get fingerprinted. Confirmed to BOD Administrator that those considering BOD positions should know that to become Pres., Sec., or Treasurer, they need to provide a color photo, copy of driver’s license, NYS Liquor Authority Personal Questionnaire form, and NYS Liquor Authority Applicant Statement. Pres, Sec., and Treasurer will be fingerprinted. Requested BOD ensure BOD manual and website are updated to reflect fingerprinting and other BOD officer requirements.
8 Honest Slate
memBer-owner C o - o p p o r t u n i t i
Greetings Honest Weight community, What defines our community? This question has come up recently in relation to our mission statement (https://www.honestweight. coop/page/our-mission-8.html).
How far does our community extend? Does it comprise only our Owners and staff—or, smaller still, only our Member-Owners? Is it confined to our cooperative grocery store but including customers who come in the store; or does it extend beyond our walls to the greater Capital District area? Individual answers to this might vary from day to day.
Regardless of how you define our community, please remember as you invest time at the Co-op that we have high expectations for courteous conduct when interacting with anyone in our community. As Member-Owners investing time for our Co-op, our inter-
Poetic License 2025
“Ekphrastic art”
is defined as the response of an artist in one medium to a work of art by an artist in another medium. Its more common manifestation is poetry written about visual art, such as paintings, photographs, drawings, or sculpture.
actions with everyone in the store and its customers must follow the expectations for appropriate conduct. These are defined in our Member-Owner Manual (https://www. honestweight.coop/page/member-owner-manual-21.html).
Please take a moment to review these expectations and communicate any changes that you think would improve the manual to Member Services at memberservices@ honestweight.coop or to the Membership Committee at MembershipComm@honestweight.coop
We gave 3 orientations in September and welcomed 22 new Owners! We are such a unique place and most of the folks attending orientation mentioned the high-quality food choices and community rather than the discount.
Collage night:
Poetic License 2025 turns that around, featuring local visual artists who created pieces in response to the work of poets. It is a collaboration between the Hudson Valley Writers Guild and the Upstate Artists Guild.
This is the 4th year Poetic License has showcased the work of poets and artists in a joint show, and the 3rd year the Show has graced the Honest Weight Food Coop’s art gallery. Poetic License 2025 features the work of 36 pieces of art created by 19 artists in response to 22 poems by 22 poets. The exhibit will run through Nov. 16, 2025, and will also feature the following associated events:
Thurs., Nov. 6 • 6–8pm in the Community Room
Browse through magazines, clip, cut, & glue a collage with UAG member Rebecca Schoonmaker.
Reserve a space at info@upstateartistsguild.org
Public reception and poetry reading/open mic:
Fri., Nov. 7 • 5–8pm • Community Room
Join artists and poets for a reception, poetry reading, and open mic, all rolled into one fantastic evening.
The Hudson Valley Writers Guild (https:// hvwg.org) supports writers’ efforts in all genres, sponsoring readings, workshops, and contests, and providing a number of valuable resources for the literary community.
The Upstate Artists Guild (https://upstateartistsguild.org) is a not-for-profit volunteer organization, open to all, which promotes the appreciation, practice, and enjoyment of art.
Fall
Membership Meeting
Sun., Oct. 26, 2025 (to be conducted remotely)
Check-in 4–6pm • Meeting 6–8:25pm
The meeting will feature:
• Governance Review Council (GRC) election.
• Bylaws Panel (BLP) presentation.
• MO-presented review/discussion of FPM’s section 7, specifically how “strive to avoid” is defined and implemented at Honest Weight.
• Regular updates from management, GRC, SLRP, ARC, and DEI , plus “We’re thankful for the Co-op because...” and two open discussion periods.
The exceptional opportunity we provide to engage in meaningful physical and intellectual effort to keep our cooperative strong is a special gift in this time of disconnection.
Grocery Democracy: Master the Art of Communicating Economic Democracy at Food Co-ops.
The two recent viewings of Grocery Democracy: Master the Art of Communicating Economic Democracy at Food Co-ops allowed Owners to appreciate how valuable our Coop is, as we have maintained the participatory model while most other co-ops have not. If you hear “This is what democracy looks like” spoken around the store or in MO meetings (the RMM on October 26 or committee meetings, etc.,) it may well stem from this experience and we hope the education will continue.
Opportunities for Member-Owner time investment in departments are listed on the website at https://www.honestweight.coop/ page/member-owner-needs-and-opportunities-101.html; scroll down to the Ongoing Needs section.
Thanks for all you do every day to enrich our community.
—Karen, Temporary Membership Manager