A food co-op is a grocery store that is collectively owned and operated by its members, and it normally focuses on local products. Even though you might not realize it, you likely have a food co-op in your area. Here are a few ways that a food co-op can improve your relationship with food.

1. They’re more convenient than most farmers markets. Although farmers markets are also great ways to shop locally, they’re usually only held once a week (and not at all in the winter months). Food co-ops, on the other hand, are just as convenient as a traditional grocery store.
2. They help to support local farmers. These days, local farmers are much fewer and farther between than they were in the past, and food co-ops are some of the most important things to help them continue to make a living by farming.
3. Expect to become a member. In exchange for providing fresh, local produce, meats and baked goods, most food co-ops expect their shoppers to become members. This usually means paying yearly dues and receiving a type of membership card before you’re able to shop in their store. If you’re dedicated to supporting local agriculture or improving your diet, these dues are more than worth it.

How to Find a Food Co-Op in Your Area and Score Some High-Quality, Super-Cheap Eats [Lifehacker]
What is a Food Co-Op? [WiseGeek]
What is a Food Co-op? [Kitsap Food]

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What better way to relax in the great outdoors than with a game of golf? Get your swing on at Bay Forest Golf Course, situated in a gorgeous setting with emerald turf, manicured trees, and glittering bayous.

The greens here present a challenge to both casual and advanced players. The chipping green and putting green are free and provide a great place to practice your skills. If you're not seeing the results you want, consider enrolling in a private or group lesson from one of the club's accomplished golf pros. Before or after your game, refuel at the Bay Forest Bar and Grill with a beverage and a bite to eat. Then, stop by the Pro Shop to outfit yourself with all of the latest golf gear and apparel for both women and men.

See the Bay Forest Golf Club website for rates or to book a tee time.

Bay Forest Golf Club
201 Bay Forest Drive
La Porte, TX 77571
(281) 471-4653
www.bayforestgolf.com
www.yelp.com/biz/bay-forest-golf-course-la-porte-2

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Since 2009, Salon Avante has offered an upscale salon experience to the La Porte area, complete with highly trained staff of stylists who have been in the industry for many years. The salon is furnished comfortably and luxuriously, with furnishings that feel more like they came from an elegant home than a typical hair salon. The retail area offers all of the latest products from the most respected hair care brands, and the coffee and wine bar adds that extra touch of hospitality that really sets Salon Avante apart from the rest.

Haircuts for both men and women begin with a private consultation to ensure that the stylist knows exactly what you want, and there are also hair color services to help you create a completely new look that you love. In addition to its hair treatments, Salon Avante offers facial waxing, hair extensions, and even makeup application for your next big event.

Salon Avante
11001 Fairmont Parkway
La Porte, TX 77571
(281) 842-9770
www.salonavante.net

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