May 2025
Long-time Co-opportunity Market Owner, Ellen Levy, was one of the lucky winners of a raffle prize at our 50th anniversary celebration last month. Here, she tells us a little bit about herself, what the Co-op means to her and what keeps her coming back.
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Q: Tell us a little bit about yourself.
In my younger life I was a professional dancer and had the wonderful opportunity to visit much of the world and meet with local people and communities. And I got to do that while doing what I loved, which was movement and dance. Unfortunately, I had tremendous hip pain. No one could figure out what was causing it for 6 years. Then I saw a Feldenkrais Practitioner for three sessions and my pain was gone. I actually moved with more ease than I did prior to these sessions. It was so amazing and interesting that I trained to become a practitioner. I have now been a Feldenkrais Practitioner for 30 years. I am also an avid gardener, building and caring for 2 Monet-inspired gardens in California.
Q. When did you first start shopping at Co-opportunity Market? How did you hear about it?
I think I first started shopping at Co-opportunity Market in the 1990s. I was looking for a grocery store that had amazing produce and was very happy to have found the Co-op. Back then, it used to be located across the street from the current location.
Q. How long have you been an Owner at Co-opportunity Market? What motivated you to become an Owner?
I think I have been an Owner at Co-opportunity Market for approximately 25 years now, plus or minus a couple of years. I love the idea that it is member-owned.
Q. What is your primary motivation for shopping at the Co-op? What keeps you coming back?
There are several reasons I like to shop at the Co-op. I feel that they have the best organic produce outside farmers markets. I also like that I can do all my shopping in one place, should I want to. Plus, it is important to me that it is not a big corporate store. Finally, I appreciate the community outreach the Co-op does.
Q. What are some of the products you shop for at the Co-op that you cannot get elsewhere, or is better at the Co-op?
Like I mentioned, they have a good selection of organic produce. I love coconut yogurt from Good Earth – it is expensive, but wonderful. I appreciate the fact that there is always something new and interesting throughout the store. And also, that they have lots of choices for non-dairy and wheat-free items.
Q: Any specific Co-op memories you would like to share with us? Or any staff member interaction that stood out to you? Funny anecdotes?
No specific memory or anecdote, but I appreciate everyone working there. They are always so helpful.
Q: Anything else you would like to share with fellow Co-op Owners about being owners or being part of a co-op, being part of the community, etc.
Before I found Co-opportunity Market in the 90s, I once told my husband, “How can I live in Southern California? There are no good grocery stores here.” Then I found the Co-op!
