1. Why are you running for the board?

I've been a member of the Bethlehem Food co-Op since it's inception and was previously a member of the Real Estate Committee. I live in downtown Bethlehem with my family and love that we live in a walkable community with so many things to see and do. I believe that a local grocery store that supports our local farmers and businesses would only enhance the quality of life for me and my family.

2. What skill sets do you bring to the table?

I am a local Real Estate Agent and Executive Director of a local healthcare agency. I bring professionalism, leadership and decision-making skills and organization. I am a critical thinker and will work collaboratively with my fellow board members in an effort to open the physical plant and get operations underway.

3. What do you believe is the value of cooperative enterprise in today's economy?

Today's middle class families are struggling to keep their heads above water; to pay bills and provide for their families. The City of Bethlehem was built on the backs of a strong middle class and although company's like Bethlehem Steel no longer exist, a food co-op in the heart of our home town would provide local, fresh food at an affordable price. Large corporations and food chains, have a monopoly on our food industry and I believe that people want to feel personally and financially connected to the businesses they patronize.

4. How would you explain the Bethlehem Food Co-Op and its development to a neighbor?

I already done this a hundred times while walking through the streets of Bethlehem, wearing a BFC t-shirt. I talk about becoming a member and what that means, I talk to folks about getting informed-looking at the BFC website, attending a meeting of getting involved in a committee. I talk to them about the pros of having a local grocery store within walking distance and how it would benefit our local farmers, artisans and economy.

5. How much time are you able to dedicate to your service on the Bethlehem Food Co-Op board of directors?

I attended the board information picnic on 8/13 and talked to several current board members about their current time commitment to the BFC board and will dedicate an average of 5 hours per week to the BFC board of directors. I  understand the significance of the individual committees, how each committee's specialty is important to the preparation of the operations and plan to involve myself in one of the BFC committees.

Watch a video interview with Heather: