Israeli-product Boycott: Next Steps

The Olympia Food Co-op Board of Directors is aware that members are awaiting information on the Board’s process following the August 12th member forum. We apologize for the delay in providing this update.

This Boycott: After extensive discussion and airing of diverse opinions, the Co-op Board could not consent to rescinding the boycott.

The Co-op Board is working to clarify the language around what will end the boycott and has solicited diverse informed input.

The Boycott Policy: The Co-op Board is forming a sub committee to review the OFC boycott policy. This committee will include Co-op Board members, staff members, and Co-op members at large. The Board will begin taking applications from members who are interested in serving on the committee. Applications will be available on the website November 15th.

Community Involvement: The Co-op Board is considering the next steps for community dialogue and community involvement.

Member Vote: Representatives of the ‘It’s Our Co-op’ group who solicited signatures on a petition outside of the stores have told the Co-op Board, that the petition was not intended to trigger a member vote. However, any member is welcome to propose a member initiated ballot process and should contact the Co-op board to begin this process. (board@olympiafood.coop)

Olympia Food Co-op: Sixth Annual Harvest Party!

UPDATE: Rain or Shine -- we have tents reserved just in case.  This is the PNW, after all.
Olympia Food Co-op: Sixth Annual Harvest Party!: "Join the Celebration! The Co-op’s Sixth Annual HARVEST PARTY is Sunday, September 12! All members of the Co-op community are encouraged to ..."

CFS Action Alert: FDA Looks To Approve Genetically Engineered Salmon

An Action Alert (see link below) from the NCGA (National Cooperative Grocers Association) informs us that on Sept.19th the FDA will rule on weather or not to allow genetically engineered salmon to be farmed for food in the U.S. 

There is no public comment period.  This hearing is the last meeting to determine if the gmo fish will be approved.  There are no long-term studies, and a chance for severe environmental impact.  Please take action and tell the FDA what you think.  There is contact info at the end of the story linked below.

September 1, 2010 - Action Alert from the Center for Food Safety

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced on August 25, 2010 that it will potentially approve the long-shelved AquAdvantage transgenic salmon as the first genetically engineered (GE) animal intended for human consumption. The GE Atlantic salmon being considered was developed by AquaBounty Technologies, and genetically engineered to produce growth hormones year-round, creating a fish the company claims grows at twice the normal rate. This could allow factory fish farms to crowd the salmon into pens and still get high production rates.

Please note: CFS is asking consumrs to take action now! The hearing for approving the salmon is scheduled for Sunday, September 19, and no public comment period has been established for the approval of genetically engineered fish outside of this meeting, so this may be the only chance to oppose this approval! Only a public comment period on labeling of the GE fish has been opened.

Find additional details in the action alert from the Center for Food Safety