Newsletters: May - June 2008
And the Board Nominees are…
Natural Times-May/June 2008
Maria Cobian
Madelon Horwich
Jeanette Reed
Jim Terrel
MARIA COBIAN
If elected to the New Leaf Market board of directors, I look forward to working with a dedicated group of people to create the best co-op in the nation, not in size but in service to the public. My experiences in education and community activism will be valuable in enhancing community outreach, particularly among Hispanics and other minorities. I am committed to seeking alternative ways to live, ways that nourish both us and the earth that sustains us. I believe New Leaf Market already contributes enormously to the quality of life in Tallahassee, and I would like to collaborate with others on NLM’s board of directors to bring more positive changes to our market and community.
As a mother of four, nutrition and alternative medicine are a daily concern of mine. I am thankful that New Leaf Market provides the quality foods and remedies that it does, and would like the opportunity to help it sustain and continually improve its standards of excellence.
I was born in Cuba and raised in Puerto Rico. I earned my bachelors degree in social anthropology and Latin American studies. In 1986, I relocated to Florida, met my beloved husband Dale, and eventually settled with him south of town in the Spiral Garden community. We immediately became members of the food co-op. In the early ‘90s, I returned to school to become a certified teacher, and have been teaching Spanish at Sail High School for over fifteen years.
When I lived in Puerto Rico, I voluntarily directed a children’s program in a poor rural community. Those years of service at a young age taught me that what you do from the heart enriches forever your life. Over the past decade, I have voluntarily coordinated activities to support the environmental and economic efforts of indigenous activists in the Ecuadorian rainforest. Now my youngest child will be graduating this school year, and I am ready and enthusiastic to offer my time and vitality to our community in the unique role of a New Leaf Market board member. Thank you.
MADELON HORWICH
I am presently a New Leaf Market director running for re-election, having been appointed by the Board recently. Since joining the board, I have appreciated the opportunity to give back to NLM some of what I have received in the 23 years I have been an owner. NLM has been (1) a place where I have always felt my family and I had a voice in what products were available to my family, and (2) a locally member-owned business that supports activities to improve the community (e.g., scholarships, education, patronizing local growers).
In the few months I have served on the Board, I have spent a lot of time preparing for and attending meetings and participating in training programs, which have included the opportunity to network with other food cooperatives in the Southeast. I have learned a lot about food co-ops in general and the workings of NLM in particular. The more I have learned, the more honored I have felt to serve on the NLM board.
My work and other board experience have given me the skills that have helped me be an effective owner of the NLM board. I have served on the board of Temple Israel and the Tallahassee Community Friends of Old-Time Dance. I have worked at The Florida Bar for 22 years, and as a liaison to court rules committees I have a lot of experience working with groups to define and achieve goals in an organized and effective way. I am also a certified court mediator, where training and experience is invaluable in working out solutions to differences that arise.
My goals in serving on the NLM board are to support NLM in its continued success as a locally member-owned business where healthful, local, delicious food is the norm and thus cost-effective, and to ensure that the owners’ voices are heard and taken into consideration.
JEANNETTE REED
My mother and I moved to just south of Cairo, GA almost four years ago. We built homes on my sister’s chemical-free farm, and now share our lives with probably the most spoiled cows, sheep, and free-range chickens in Grady County! Our mother is in her mid-80’s and is enjoying her time on the farm, as it keeps her not only in touch with family, but nature in all her splendor.
Isn’t it amazing how our life’s journey continues to provide us with opportunities? I am now more aware of how yesterday’s and today’s farming practices have immediate, as well as long-term, effects on our health and environment. Our nation is becoming more conscious of health decisions and alternative medicine is experiencing unprecedented growth. Since moving back to this area, I am thrilled to experience the environmental awareness that Tallahassee, and the area, embodies.
I have been impressed with New Leaf Market since my first visit. I have been intrigued with the co-op concept, which is like nothing I had ever experienced. What a great concept, creating a community of owners who can individually benefit the whole. All one has to do is visit NLM to become consciously aware of how much care and research goes into selection of products offered. The staff and management go above, and beyond, a level of service second to none. The current expansion is an indicator of positive, long-range foresight.
Last December I accepted an appointment to the Board in to fill an unexpected vacancy. As owners, I commend you on your choice of directors, evidenced by continued and sustainable growth of the Co-op. As a board, I commend you for recognizing the value of management and staff. The Board’s consensus decision-making process brings respect and honor for each other’s ideas, decisions and opinions. This, coupled with the synergy that exists between management and staff, will place New Leaf Market in a position of strength in an ever-changing economic environment. To continue serving the owners and community would most certainly be a privilege. I would appreciate your vote of confidence. Thank you in advance.
JIM TERRELL
Hello, my name is Jim Terrell. I have been a chiropractor in Tallahassee for over 20 years. I have been involved with the Co-op for almost as long as I have lived in Tallahassee. My first Thursday in Tallahassee, I worked a double shift at Leon County Food Co-op. Two days later, I helped set up sound and lights for the annual meeting.
I am running for re-election to the New Leaf Board of Directors. I first ran three years ago and have enjoyed my time on the Board immensely. During my time on the Board, I have served on the elections and owner communications committees. I was also very active in the owner loan program.
I would like to continue to serve on the Board and assist in the Board’s efforts in the expansion project. I also would like to continue to help strengthen institutional memory in the Board. I would like to serve New Leaf Market as a board member and would appreciate your support.
