Co-op Updates 

While the snow and cold have definitely taken a toll on all of us, store sales continue to soar at the Co-op. In fact, last week was our best sales week ever!

Your support of our Co-op, and our continuing sales success, is directly translating into improvements to Co-op staff wages and benefits.  Earlier this fall, we implemented a livable wage program giving all full time staff, who have completed one year of service, a base wage of $11.55/hour.  We also increased the minimum wage for all Co-op staff to $10/hour, once they complete their new employee training sessions.  Our newest initiative, which we are still rolling out, is to add a Simple IRA Plan to our employee benefits package.  For eligible staff, the Co-op will match each employee's IRA contribution up to 3% of their compensation.  While it is critical that our employees are able to meet their day to day economic needs, it's equally important for them to plan for the future -- and we're excited to offer them this opportunity to save. 

Thank you again for helping us make this happen and, as always, we welcome your feedback and suggestions.

Yours cooperatively,

Michael Faber

Monadnock Food Co-op General Manager   

P.S.: Thanks for making SOUPer Bowl II even better than last year!  View the winners and soup recipes here. 

Board Update 

One of the seven Co-op Principles that historically unites and guides consumer co-operatives is: Education, Training, and Information.  This principle directs that cooperatives shall "...provide education and training for their members, elected representatives, managers and employees so they can contribute effectively to the development of their co-operatives."  Learn how our Co-op Board stays connected to this principle. 

GM Michael Faber with "Beet Award" Winner Peter Moore (on the right)

Peter's Got the Beet!  

Congratulations to Peter Moore, the Co-op's Perishable & Frozen Food Buyer.  He is our fifth employee to receive the Monadnock Food Co-op's "Beet Award."  Peter was nominated by those of you who filled out a Helping Hands form.  He demonstrates a great work ethic each and every day and is incredible with customers.  Best of all, Peter is a cheerful, kindhearted person who is always willing to help out - and whistles throughout his work day.

The "Beet Award" is a quarterly award given to a Co-op staff member who most embodies the spirit of a great co-operator.  They display a friendly attitude, help others out without hesitation and are incredible ambassadors of our Co-op.  

Food As Medicine

It's a catchy little phrase, isn't it? Food as medicine. I guess I'd have to say that I'm kind of fond of both the phrase and the idea. There is something empowering about taking responsibility for my health and well-being through the choices I make around food. I much prefer this active participation in my own health over abdicating to medical professionals who are, no doubt, invaluable when it comes to trauma, infectious disease, and other medical emergencies -- but, our day-to-day health should not be a medical emergency.

Valentine's Day Recipes

From Co-op, Stronger Together 

Enjoy a special meal with your sweetie for Valentine's Day!  View this collection of delicious dishes to make a meal from the heart. 

Image from strongertogether.coop