APRIL 2020 UPDATE FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER

April 4, 2020

It’s been quite a month. All of our lives have been turned upside down and some of us are severely negatively affected by this virus. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to you and yours who are struggling right now. Whether you know someone who is sick, you’ve lost your job, or you’re just tired of staying inside, please don’t hesitate to reach out if we can help with something. We’re serious. Please contact me, Chris Roland, at gm@fredericksburgfood.coop if there is something the Co-op can do for you or your family. It could be running an errand, dropping off some groceries, or helping you find certain resources. We may not have our store ready to shop yet, but the Fredericksburg Food Co-op is here and active in many other ways. We were created to do good and support this community, so that’s what we’re going to do. Please let us know if we can help with anything.

All is not doom and gloom, though, as much of our work on the path to opening continues on as normal. We miss having our events and seeing all of our owners’ smiling faces, but store development is moving forward as planned. We’ve hired our architect, John J. Burger, Architect, located right here in Fredericksburg. We looked at architects from all over the state and found that John was the most qualified. It also meant a lot to us that he and his team are here in Fredericksburg and able to bop down to the store anytime we need.

Our mission to support our local economy will mostly involve food and agriculture, but it also pertains to other local services and industries that the Co-op will use throughout construction and beyond. When we can, we will always choose local. John has started getting our final drawings ready to submit to the city for permits. To best keep up to date on our progress and stay connected, follow us on FACEBOOK, INSTAGRAM, and TWITTER.

I will also be leading a Zoom conference next Saturday, April 11, at 3:00 pm, talking about our Co-op, some of the great things that food co-ops are doing around the country, and some of what we’re planning for our store. If you haven’t used Zoom yet, it’s really easy. There’s still time to give input to what you’d like to see in YOUR local grocery store, so be sure to tune in and have your voice heard. We’ll have a great Q & A at the end where I’ll be taking notes on everything I hear. We’re still on pace to open this Fall.

Please be well during this time of uncertainty and stress. Through all this, I can’t help but think that Fredericksburg needs a Food Co-op to support our local food supply more than ever. We’re working hard to make that happen and provide our community another great place to gather (when we’re allowed to) and enjoy good food together. Until then, stay safe and healthy and I hope to see you virtually on April 11th.

Chris Roland
General Manager
Fredericksburg Food Co-op