Disability Pride Month

Disability Pride Month, first celebrated in 1990, commemorates the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This landmark legislation prohibits discrimination based on disability and ensures equal opportunities in all areas of public life. Disability Pride Month promotes visibility and mainstream awareness of the positive pride felt by people with disabilities. It is a time to honor the contributions of individuals with disabilities and advocate for a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive. It is also a time to advocate for a more inclusive society where everyone can thrive. At the Ashland Food Co-op, we are committed to supporting all members of our community. We believe that diversity and inclusivity make us stronger, and we are dedicated to creating a welcoming environment for everyone.

As we celebrate Disability Pride Month this July, we are honored to share the inspiring story of Luke Hogan Laurenson, a remarkable member of our Ashland community. Luke, who graduated as valedictorian from Ashland High School in 2023, has overcome numerous challenges to achieve this milestone. Born with a disability, Luke's journey is a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of community support.

Despite the physical challenges he faced, Luke excelled academically and socially. His valedictorian speech resonated with many as he spoke about hope, the importance of embracing one's individuality, and the joy of dancing – a passion of his that reflects his positive spirit. Luke also drew inspiration from his favorite artist, Taylor Swift, whose music and messages of empowerment have been a constant source of motivation.

Luke's success is not just a personal victory but also a reflection of the inclusive and supportive environment of Ashland. Our community has rallied around him, offering encouragement and resources to help him thrive. This spirit of inclusivity is something we, at Ashland Food Co-op, deeply value and strive to foster within our own space.

We invite you to join us in celebrating Disability Pride Month by learning more about the stories of individuals like Luke Hogan and supporting initiatives that promote inclusivity and accessibility. Together, we can build a community where everyone feels valued and empowered.

If you would like to follow Luke on his journey you can check out his Youtube channel and his non-profit, Luke's Foundation for Love.

More Co-op News

Rachel's Spring Produce Picks

Rachel Rose, Assistant Produce Manager, shares her spring produce picks.

Strawberries
Most people are surprised to know that early spring are two of the best months out of the year for tasty strawberries. The first batch out of California is usually so sweet and full of flavor that the rest of the year I often shy away from strawberries. They just don’t measure up to the fruit coming out early in the year.

5 Edible Plants to Start in Your Garden Now

Spring is most definitely upon us, and we are lucky enough to live in Southern Oregon where the weather during this time is usually (ahem) co-operative enough to let us get some plants in the ground in between the hail storms and rainbows.  There are actually many plants that do quite well in this time of transition, as they prefer the cooler temperatures that we get here this time of year, before the real heat sets in.  Here are a few that we have right now at the Co-op, direct from local, organic farms.  Plant these in your garden now for best results!

UPDATED Organic Raw Macadamia Nuts Recalled Because of Possible Health Risk

UPDATED  3/17/16

Ashland Food Co-Op of Ashland, Oregon issues the updated press release to clarify that we re-packed and sold Organic Raw Macadamia nuts in random weight bags at our retail store in Oregon only between January 5th, 2016 and February 4th, 2016.  We do not have any internet sale or distribute affected product outside Oregon.

Garden of Life Raw Meal Recall

Garden of Life has issued a voluntary recall on all Raw Meal products shipped after August 15, 2015. 

Please see the below link to Garden of Life’s blog for all lot numbers that they are recalling, as well as details of the recall.

Let Thy Food Be Thy Medicine

Rachel Rose, Assistant Produce Manager, shares her winter produce picks.

The cells in our bodies are all made using the building blocks that we provide in the food that we eat, the air that we breathe and the water we drink. If we want healthy bodies, feeding ourselves and our families the cleanest healthiest foods is a real good start. We are what we eat!

Burdock root

Behind the Scenes: The Deli

Welcome back to our Behind the Scenes blog series. We recently took you into the colorful world of Produce. Now we’d like to introduce you to the department that enters beast mode daily: the Deli.

Did you know?

31 Reasons to Visit the Co-op

Happy 2016! It’s a brand new year, new month, new day. No doubt many of you’ve made a variety of resolutions to make this year the best yet. The Co-op can help you succeed. How? Let us tell you. Here are 31 reasons why you should visit the Co-op every day this month to improve your life and your community.

Behind the Scenes: Produce Department

You shop for groceries at the Co-op. For lunch, you often stop at the Deli for a quick meal from the Hot Bar. You meet friends outside on the plaza, give each other long hugs, and catch up on life. After a long week, you swing by for the Friday beer and wine tastings at the Kiosk. But how well do you really know the Co-op?

2015: A Year to Remember

Can it really be that time of year again? 2015 was full of so many things for which to be grateful. Here’s a list of some of the highlights.

We celebrated the 10-thousandth person to become a Co-op owner! Co-op ownership is a way to help create a more humane and democratic way to do business locally. A robust cooperative economy is one way to take a stand against corporate misbehavior.

Smart Chicken® Holiday Giving Challenge

The holiday season is upon us. Amidst the shopping frenzies, family gatherings, and parties it can be hard to remember this is also a season of giving. Luckily, you have us and we are making it easy for you to give back.

During the month of November, Co-op shoppers can nourish their own families and help fight hunger in the Rogue Valley.