Exercise Your Exclusive Member Right

By Marcy Cordes

As we head into the October election, remember that one of your most important rights as a member-owner is to select individuals for the Board of Directors, who act on your behalf in ensuring the continued success of the Wedge. Members have a real voice in governance and in the direction of their Co-op. I hope that all of you will take the time to participate in the process by completing the ballot attached to this issue of the newsletter.

We have two positions to fill this year from a slate of three highly qualified, experienced, interesting candidates. Newly elected Board members must be able to fully participate in the work of the Board, which includes financial oversight of the co-op, as well as planning for the future by setting policies and establishing long-range goals. The Board is also responsible for hiring and evaluating the General Manager. The Nominations Committee has found that people with the following general characteristics are usually best suited to perform the work of the Board:

• Understand co-op principles and board duties on behalf of the member-owners.
• Exposure to business principles, practices and understanding financial infor mation and processes.
• Committee, ad hoc group, or board exper ience/involvement in a professional organization.
• Allocation of sufficient time and energy to perform the required functions in a thorough and conscientious manner.

Please read each candidate's statement and carefully consider his or her qualifications. Participation in the voting process is a tangible reminder that the Wedge is more than just a great place to shop. With your support and continued participation in your Co-op as a voting member-owner, we can continue the original cooperative mission of collective efforts, healthy living, and food for people, not for profit.

The election results will be announced at the Annual Meeting on Thursday evening, October 27, 2005. I personally thank you in advance for your participation.