Going co-op for groceries in Altadena

Public Editor Larry Wilson picks up in his column the story on a potential cooperative (meaning, member-owned) food market that's gaining steam in Altadena:

Right now, in the organizing phase, Arroyo is looking for 500 members to come in at $300 before the end of the year to raise some capital toward start-up costs and construction beginning next summer. The group says that some of the advantages to the early adapters will be members-only events and discounts on store items.

One beauty part: "We want to build not just a healthy grocery store but a gathering place in the community for events and classes, plus a locally run cafe and brew pub."

The Arroyo Food Co-op would aim to provide more organic products, stock from local producers, reasonable prices and a direct line to a more sustainable, "green" lifestyle.