Thing: Tacoma Food Co-Op

Has: Many things going on

Thing #1: Membership

Thing #2: New store

Thing #3: Fun events

No, this is not: The Cat in the Hat

Written by: Dr. Seuss

Although: I have the same complexity

Of: A nonsense children's book

Since its inception in 2006, the Tacoma Food Co-Op has been the little nonprofit that could. With a passion for bringing local, sustainable, fair trade and organic goods (add in any other hot Pacific Northwest tree-hugger words you like) to Tacoma, our very own Tacoma Food Co-op nonprofit has shuffled through the pains of establishing itself while the economy deflates.

I spoke with Casandra Gorell, vice president of Tacoma Food Co-op, at a Weekly Volcano Nosh League event. I was impressed with her enthusiasm for good, quality food. In fact, her enthusiasm rivals my own-and, judging by the size of my ass, I have a friggen' ton of food enthusiasm.

Gorell described what the one-time Tacoma Food Co-Op membership fee of $100 includes. By purchasing said membership, you will receive voting privileges, "member only" store specials, discount on classes and a handy dandy Tacoma Food Co-Op newsletter.

Say wha? There's a store? Classes? Girl, you crazy!

Please, everyone settle down and allow me to explain: As you may have heard, where the Neighborhood Market is located on Sixth Avenue and Junett in Tacoma, our local food co-op will take over and open a storefront come August 1. The triumphant moment will be the realization of a Tacoma Food Co-op goal long in the making. 

"It's going to be like an indoor farmers market open all year long," Gorell tells me. She also says the store will house goods of a mostly local and organic nature, including (but not limited to): groceries, clothing, coffee and grab-and-go food items. You need not be a member to shop, but membership does have its discounts and privileges. 

In addition, educational classes involving cooking and community will take place inside the new Tacoma Food Co-op location. Gorrell says the classes will be open to everyone, but, of course, come at a discount to members.

If my ramblings have piqued your interest in Tacoma Food Co-op, and you'd like to see an example with your own eyes, feel free to stop by an open event on Tuesday, June 28, from 6 - 9 p.m. at both Bluebeard Coffee and the new Cork location on Sixth Avenue in Tacoma. At least five to 10 local vendors will be present with goods.

Dr. Suess was unavailable for comment, and will most likely not be at the upcoming event.

tacomafoodcoop.com

Opening soon at 3002 Sixth Ave.,Tacoma