Basics

1. QWhy Organic?
2. A

   Fresh organic fruits and vegetables contain more nutrients, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. They taste better too. That's because they come from good nutrient-rich soil which impacts the earth positively and the plants more deliciously.

   Organic fruits and vegetables are grown without chemical and petroleum-based pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides. Nor may organic farming use sewage– or sludge-based fertilizers as is typical in conventional farming (yuck!).

   Organic products are free from Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs), hormones, growth stimulants, antibiotics, and cloning. Since conventional products are not forced to label each product, the only way we are assured that the item we are eating and feeding our children is not cloned or genetically engineered is by choosing the organic option.

   Organic products cannot contain chemical colors, nitrates, nitrites and are free of artificial ingredients.

   Organic standards implore humane treatment of cattle, dairy cows, chickens, sheep, etc. Organic farming allows them fresh clean water, a clean place to sleep, access to the outdoors, room to move and exercise, and fresh air. Seems like a minimum we can offer but yes, that had to be spelled out in the guidelines. Conventional animals are treated very differently; to say that they are treated poorly is a misleading understatment.

   There is even new research that indicates that people who eat more organic products have an easier time maintaining their ideal weight and that choosing organic foods can actually help us lose weight! That's because when we consume chemicals and pesticides our liver is in overdrive protecting our body from those toxins. When we eat wholsome real foods created without chemical pesticides, instead of overburdening our liver to clear our body of toxins, our liver can take on it's other big responsibility and use up calories!

   By supporting organic farmers, we are encouraging more farmers to choose sustainable methods. We are encouraging other countries not to destroy precious rainforest to make way for cheap crops. We are paying more directly to villages that grow coffee, offering them an opportunity for education, schools, and a better way of life while their earth-friendly harvesting protects our birds allowing them a place to nest.

   Organics are better for people, our planet, and our future.

3. QWhat is a Buying Club?
4. A

   A buying club is a group of people who share a common goal - to save money on quality healthy foods. By pooling our resources, we create greater purchasing power to buy food at drastically discounted prices.

   Our buying club reaps the benefits of our talented and caring members. Each of us plays an important role in our success. We work together to save time and money. Instead of shopping individually, we combine our ordering power to get better prices, selection, and quality.

   We are primarily an Organic Fruit and Vegetable Buying Club focusing on local organics, but we are able to get other items as part of our group, making it more affordable to choose organic products over pesticide-laden conventional items every day.

   Our Buying Club is a great way to meet others in our community who share our interest in healthful living. We meet and share information, articles, and recipes. We become friends who support one another and offer advice. We are foodies who relish wonderfully fresh fruits and vegetables, We care about our green living, our planet and our future. We decrease our footprint when we source directly. We are also able to get harder to find and more unique items of interest to our group. We are proud to support organic farming practices and local farmers that promote ecological harmony and environmental responsibility.

   It's fast, easy, convenient and delicious!

5. QWhat is Annie's Buying Club?
6. AWe are a group of consumers (health conscious, quality conscious, price conscious, and foodies) tired of the overpriced and slim selection of organic produce at the local grocery stores. With over seven years experience in the organic food industry, Annie combines her background with her passion for cooking and seasonal organic produce to create a great value of the best available for each week's share.
7. QWhat areas does your buying club cover.
8. AWe have many locations throughout Florida from Tallahassee to Key West and are growing rapidly.  see the link above for Current Locations
9. QHow does a co-op differ from a buying club?
10. ALike a buying club, a cooperative is a group of people that coopererate in to save money, however, co-operatives are usually bigger stores where members can shop at discounted prices instead of buying directly. Co-operatives are member-owned and offer an option to the traditional grocery store.
11. QWhere can I get raw organic milk in south Florida?
12. Awww.MillersOrganicFarm.com
13. QWhat are the basic rules to ABC and how does this work in a nutshell?
14. A1.        We are a buying club not a store.  We buy in bulk and share the cases to create super fresh value-filled boxes for our members.  We do not sell one broccoli separately, for example.  However, unlike most clubs where it's one box fits all and you must adhere to the same schedule, YOU have a choice of the kind of box and frequency as well as add-ons as listed.  So in a sense, you can customize your box and pick up schedule.

    2.       To do this, we rely upon knowing that you ARE picking up based upon the schedule.  If you need to change your pick up date, unlike other buying clubs, we offer that flexibility and convenience!  You must log into the site before the cut off (which is Wednesday before pick up) and move your next pick up date.  You can also easily change add-ons, change your share, etc.  If you need to make a change after the cut off, add it to the NOTES area and we’ll accommodate if possible; if you are canceling a share after the deadline we will try our best to sell it on your behalf so that we can credit your payment toward next pick up.

    3.       The list of what is expected for South Florida (Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward) is posted Friday, after the cut off, that is because we need to know how many of what kind of shares to finalize our boxes.  If you see the list and realize you forgot to tell us you are allergic to something or you really want a fruit or herb add on, simply log in and add it under NOTES for this share.  We WILL see those notes and do the best we can to accommodate you.

    4.       Unlike other buying clubs, we include recipes specifically geared toward each box to help you get the most out of your share, even help you try something new.

    5.       Unlike other buying clubs, we do not ask you to commit hours of your time each week, unless you are the coordinator of course.  Our coordinators are amazing and committed to getting you the loveliest shares possible.  Please be respectful of their time and dedication to your healthy boxes.  Members are only expected to prepay for each share and pick up on the day of delivery, and enjoy your boxes. We do expect each member to pick up their share on the day of delivery within the pick up window.

    6.       Payment is due at least one week in advance.  If you forget to pay, and if you also do not change your pick up date online by the deadline, you WILL still get your share and a $5 late fee will be added at pick up.  We reserve the right not to include a share if we don’t see prepayment; we do that to avoid added stress to the coordinators to sell a potential extra share.  Best to pay at pick up for the next share to alleviate any frustration or forgetting.

    7.       If you do not pick up by the last cut off, and have not made prior arrangements with your coordinator, your share will be donated at your expense.  The coordinator has the option of allowing you to pick up late with a $5 late pick up fee, again this is if you pick up after the cut off and have not made prior arrangements for a mutually convenient pick up time with your coordinator.

    Hope you enjoy!  Let us know if you have any questions or need further clarifications.  We all work together to make this work and appreciate your support and understanding so that things go smoothly for you too.  Thank you for your suggestions.

    Eat Well, Be Well -

15. QWhat about the swine flu and organic produce from Mexico?
16. Ahttp://hiporganicmama.blogspot.com/2009/05/swine-flu-produce-from-mexico.html
17. QI want to join, what next?
18. AWe are excited you want to join us! Click JOIN THE CLUB to choose your share, frequency, location, start date, any add ons, add notes for allergies and more.  Remember payment is due a week in advance to avoid the $5 late fee or log in by the Thursday prior to pick up (if your pick up is Mon, Tues or Wed) or by the Monday prior (if you pick up Thurs or Friday) to change your pick up date.  Shares must be picked up on the day of delivery within the pick up windows set by your coordinator which are always very reasonable.  Please review your box at pick up and let your coordinator know if any issues just in case.  Hope you enjoy!
19. QHow can I become a Buying Club Coordinator and get my share for free? What do I need to do as the coordinator for my group and how much time is required?
20. A

    As the Buying Club Coordinator for your area, you would be responsible for helping us distribute shares to the members in your group. Your primary responsibility is to accept delivery, check it for accuracy and quality, sort it fairly for the members of your group, and allow each member to pick up their share at a mutually convenient time. You also help take pre-orders for additional items each member may want and collect payments from members for their next share. At first, this may take a little longer until you get into the swing of things, but we calculate that this can all be done within 2 hours (not including pick up hours), maybe less once you know the routine.
    
    For your hard work, your box of produce of produce is FREE to thank you for your commitment (up to a $60 value) plus you will have access to extras included in each delivery.

21. QI cannot be a coordinator but I'd still like to help, what can I do?
22. A

    In order to make this buying club work, we all rely upon one another to do something and help. Some of us sort, some of us spread the word, some offer recipes, some help by offering to coordinate the groups. The amount of work is rewarded with receiving your share at the great value of only $45 to getting your share at no cost (for buying club coordinators.)

    If you cannot be a coordinator but still want to do something to get a discount on your box, you may be able to assist the coordinator in sorting the shares for the members of your group. If you are interested in this, let us know and we'll work out a schedule that will work for you to help at your location.

    If you cannot help sort, you can simply help by letting others know about us. Send out an email to friends or forward one of our emails. Pass around flyers and let friends, neighbors, yahoo groups, facebook friends, church or synogogue members, mommy groups, other parents at schools or friends in school, even your local dry cleaners know about us. We can send you flyers or you can download them here.

    Thanks to all of our hard work, together we can continue our quest for fresh organics and more at prices well below retail. Thank you for doing your part!

     
     
23. QI'm just not sure; can I just try it one week to decide?
24. A

    We can certainly understand hesitancy especially when you haven't seen how gloriously fresh our organic produce looks and how wonderful truly fresh organics can taste! We are a club and even though we have no membership fees, we rely upon one another to make this work. Since each week's box can vary, we respectfully suggest you try at leat three shares (3 weeks or 6 if bi-weekly shares) before you decide whether you like it or not. You can cancel as stated above with 1 week notice so you can email, call, or let your coordinator know at pick up that you will no longer be picking up or that you simply want to suspend until a time certain or until you let us know when you are ready to rejoin us. So just let us know if this is not working for you. If you want to share why, maybe we can help. Maybe you aren't getting enough leafies or fruits, we may be able to resolve things like that with substitutions or another kind of box.

    We appreciate you giving us a try and letting us know how we can improve but realize that a surprise mixed box of fresh organic produce is not for everyone.

    If you are set on just trying this one time, which we don't feel is a fair way to try us out, just pay an extra $5 for your share, so $50 for a full share and $40 for a half share

25. QWhat do I bring with me to pick up my share?
26. A

    Bring an interest in organics, green living, and healthy food. Bring an enthusiasm for fresh produce and new ways to prepare it. You'll be carrying your share to your car so bring a strong helper if that might be difficult for you. It's helpful if you would please bring some plastic, paper or cotton reusable bags or boxes that your coordinator can use to split up shares for your next delivery. Don't forget to bring payment for your next share if you didn't already mail it or if you haven't already paid online BEFORE picking up your share. If you are bringing a check, please have it ready and made out to "Annie's Buying Club" for the correct amount. If you are paying by cash, bring exact change as your coordinator is not responsible for making change. If you bring more than the amount due for your next share, we will use the additional money as a credit toward a future order.

     

    BAGS:

     

    •you can bring 2 cloth reusable bags and leave one for your next share.

    •you can bring boxes or bags reusing these from previous purchases.

    •We found these really great big cooler bags at Costco that are only $6.99 for TWO cooler bags (great to keep more delicate produce cool, just put an ice pack in there) and one dry bag (perfect for potatoes, hard squash, things like that) so you can leave one with your coordinator and just bring the dry goods one back with you each time to fill up with those items.

    •Or head to IKEA for two of their bags, they are only .59 each and are a great size to pack the produce.

More Specifics about ABC

1. QHow does this work?
2. A

   It's easy!

   1. Sign up online: Join the Club
   2. Choose a full or half-share.
   3. Choose the weekly or bi-weekly option.
   4. Choose your pick up location or become a Buying Club Coordinator with own pick up spot and get your box for FREE!
   5. Pick up your box on your specified day and revel in your bountiful box of fresh organic produce.
   6. RIght now we are focusing on produce but with enough interest we can get other things direct as a group. At pick up you prepay for your next box and you can preorder any extras you want next including:
      • grass-fed milk (choose cartons or non-homogenized milk in glass with the cream on top like the good ol' days!)
        • whole milk
        • 1% milk
        • 2% milk
        • chocolate milk
        • skim / nonfat milk
      • tofu, yogurt, cheese blocks, sliced cheeses, sour cream, cottage cheese, goat cheese
      • organic deli meats without nitrates or nitrites or colorings
      • organic raw or roasted nuts & seeds
      • organic dried fruit without sulfur
      • freshly prepared vegan & macro vegetarian meals ready to eat and delicious
      • FRESH ORGANIC TURKEYS for Thanksgiving: order your Organic Turkey, Kosher Organic Turkey, or Antibiotic- & Hormone-Free Turkey for your holiday now
      • organic hummus, dips, guacamole
      • organic refrigerated and shelf stable juices
      • organic snacks and kid's lunchbox snacks
      • organic eggs from free roaming hens
      • fresh organic poultry
      • kosher organic poultry & meats
      • fresh organic grass-fed meats and frozen grass-fed meats, variety of cuts
      • a 25lb bag of carrots or a box of anything, this is especially great for juicers!
      • a wheatgrass tray 10 x 20
      • special order anything you may want and we'll do our best to source it for you alone if you want a case or for you and your group if others want that item too!
      • canned wild pacific salmon, sardines, mackeral and more
      • with enough interest, we may also be able to get bulk case discounts of:
        • pasta, flour, baking products, grains, rice, pantry items
        • agave nectar, sweeteners in bulk
        • cleaning supplies
        • health & beauty care products
        • juices & juice boxes
        • Larabars or other energy bars
        • breads, spelt breads or wheat breads
        • dried and canned beans or other canned or jarred items including condiments
        • cereals
        • coffee, tea
        • cookies, snacks, candy
        • cooking stock - chicken, no chicken, vegetarian
        • soy, rice, and hemp milks

    

3. QWhat is in a typical box?
4. A

   Our boxes are always a generous mix of seasonal fruits and vegetables. We include basics that we always need and at times may include something that might be new to you. We include menu ideas and recipes for the new item so you can fearlessly give it a try. We share information with your Buying Club Coordinator so that she or he can offer guidance on how to enjoy every piece of produce included in your box. And we are here to help. Call or email us anytime as we have lots of experience with every item we choose.

   We do our best to include a nice variety and quantity of each item. For example, based upon your request, we'll choose one or more from each general category:

   • Vegetables:
     • Broccoli, Cauliflower, Bok Choy, Summer Squash, Asparagus
     • Hard Squash, Artichokes, Beans, Peas, Eggplant, Mushrooms
     • Tomatoes, Scallions, Cucumbers, Peppers, Cabbage, Sprouts
     • Lettuce: Red Leaf, Romaine, Butter Lettuce, Salads
     • Garlic, Ginger, Parsley, Cilantro, Rosemary, Mint, Basil, Thyme
     • Carrots, Celery, Onions, Beets, Potatoes, Radishes
     • Leafy Greens: Chard, Kale, Spinach, Arugula, Escarole, Watercress
   • Fruits:
     • Apples, Pears
     • Grapes
     • Berries - Strawberries, Raspberries, Blueberries, Blackberries
     • Melons - Cantaloupe, Honeydew, Watermelon
     • Summer Fruit - Peaches, Plums, Cherries, Nectarines, Pluots
     • Tropical Fruit - Mangos, Bananas, Pineapple, Kiwi, Mamey
     • Citrus - Lemons, Limes, Oranges, Tangerines, Grapefruit

   Please note:the above list is just an example. We always do our best to choose a nice sampling of a variety of fruits and vegetables. We are never heavy on potatoes, or greens or lettuces. You help us decide what to order for your box too. The possibility is endless as we search out fresh organics for us to enjoy each week. We never get a big box of strange unusual things; after all, we are part of our club and we feed our families this way too. We always have a nice balance so you can be assured you will find things that you know how to prepare each week as well as something that might be new and delicious..

   We've compared the value of our coop boxes to other coops and buying clubs around the country and we found that ours is:

   • a better selection of different items
   • a better quantity of each item
   • a better mix of fruits and vegetables
   • a better value
5. QWhat extras are available?
6. Ayou can preorder any extras you want next including:
   • grass-fed milk (choose cartons or non-homogenized milk in glass with the cream on top like the good ol' days!)
     • whole milk
     • 1% milk
     • 2% milk
     • chocolate milk
     • skim / nonfat milk
   • tofu, yogurt, cheese blocks, sliced cheeses, sour cream, cottage cheese, goat cheese
   • organic deli meats without nitrates or nitrites or colorings
   • organic raw or roasted nuts & seeds
   • organic dried fruit without sulfur
   • freshly prepared vegan & macro vegetarian meals ready to eat and delicious
   • FRESH ORGANIC TURKEYS for Thanksgiving: order your Organic Turkey, Kosher Organic Turkey, or Antibiotic- & Hormone-Free Turkey for your holiday now
   • organic hummus, dips, guacamole
   • organic refrigerated and shelf stable juices
   • organic snacks and kid's lunchbox snacks
   • organic eggs from free roaming hens
   • fresh organic poultry
   • kosher organic poultry & meats
   • fresh organic grass-fed meats and frozen grass-fed meats, variety of cuts
   • a 25lb bag of carrots or a box of anything, this is especially great for juicers!
   • a wheatgrass tray 10 x 20
   • special order anything you may want and we'll do our best to source it for you alone if you want a case or for you and your group if others want that item too!
   • canned wild pacific salmon, sardines, mackeral and more
   • with enough interest, we may also be able to get bulk case discounts of:
     • pasta, flour, baking products, grains, rice, pantry items
     • agave nectar, sweeteners in bulk
     • cleaning supplies
     • health & beauty care products
     • juices & juice boxes
     • Larabars or other energy bars
     • breads, spelt breads or wheat breads
     • dried and canned beans or other canned or jarred items including condiments
     • cereals
     • coffee, tea
     • cookies, snacks, candy
     • cooking stock - chicken, no chicken, vegetarian
     • soy, rice, and hemp milks
7. QHow much is a share?
8. AUnder Join The Club you can see our box varieties and add-ons to customize a box that meets your needs.  In general, Full Shares are $45. Half shares are $35.  We also offer an add-ons of extra fruit and/or vegetables
   

   
   

9. QWhen and where do I pick up my share or is it delivered?
10. A

    You pick up your box at the most convenient location to you on the day of delivery in the pick up window set by your coordinator.  Current locations can be found in the pull down to the far left under Welcome.

    We are a no frills buying club working together to get the freshest seasonal produce and putting all our money into the value of the food itself. We deliver the food in bulk to each drop location, but we do not offer personalized delivery to each members home. It's highly likely we have a pick-up location convenient to where you work or live. We have locations forming throughout Florida, from Key West to Jacksonville. When you sign up, enter your address so we can figure out which drop spot is the closest for you to pick up your share. We can give you an idea of your closest location with availability once we have input your address but, understandably, we cannot disclose the exact location of the pick up location nor can we hold a spot at that location until you have paid for your first share. Once processed, we will send you the exact address of the pick up location and information on how and where to receive your bountiful share of wonderfully fresh organic produce.

    UPDATE: Routing is now confirmed so you will know the day to expect a share in your area. Once paid, we will send you the window of time for pick up and the exact location and that is closest to you for picking up your share. Payment must be in at least one week in advance to secure your share. You should be on a regular schedule, either weekly or bi-weekly. Best to make your payment for your next share when you pick up your current share.

11. QAre there any start-up costs, membership fees or any other charges?
12. AAt this time there are no start-up costs, membership fees, or any other charges other than paying for your share each week. We are offsetting the costs associated with this buying club with affiliates in our green links. We encourage members (and friends) to use these links when making purchases to any of those businesses.
    
    • NO Start Up Costs
    • NO Dues or Membership Fees
    • NO Long-Term Commitments
    • NO Big Obligation for Your Valuable Time
    • NO more Paying Retail
    • NO excuse not to offer your family the freshest available organic produce!
    • Recipes & Menu Ideas included!
13. QDo I need to buy or rent a cotton bag? What fees are involved?
14. AWe have no membership fees or other charges for things like bags. We reduce, reuse, and recycle and as such will reuse all the boxes in which we receive our fresh produce. We also encourage you to drop off grocery store bags, reusable cotton bags, and paper bags so we can use them to split future shares. Thanks!
15. QWhat if I forget or can't pick up on the day of delivery? What happens to my box and money?
16. AUnlike other coops, our group does not expect you to put in time to sort shares and help members.  The only thing that is expected of each member is to pay on time AND pick up on the delivery day within the pick up window.  All pick up windows are convenient or we will work to make them as convenient as possible for you without being an undue imposition the coordinator.

    Shares not picked up within the pick up window on the delivery day may be donated at the member's expense.

    Communication with your coordinator is key.  If you arrange a mutually convenient and agreed upon time after the pick up window, then you must stick to that time. This would be up to the coordinator to agree and we do not guarantee a pick up after the day and window set by your coordinator.  The coordinator can also charge a $5 late pick up fee if you pick up after the window.

    If you arrange to pick up after the delivery day, please understand that your coordinator does not have a walk-in cooler and your share of perishables may be left out overnight.  This WILL degrade the quality and lasting power.  We do not take any responsibility for quality after the pick up day so please do not share any complaints on quality due to your picking up after the day of delivery.  In the stores, produce is misted, trimmed and kept on ice or refrigeration, we do not have that luxury and that is why you are getting direct pricing instead of grocery store mark ups. 

17. QHow can I choose which share/extras I want if the site isn't updated until after the deadline? That doesn't make sense.
18. AI think we have to remember that we are not a store; we are a buying club.  We rely upon knowin how many of which kind of share to finalize the lists of what goes into each box.  We preorder several weeks in advance but some things don't arrive int he quantity we request.  We look at our final numbers to see what we can include best for each kind of share and add on.  So it's a catch 22  - we need to know what is ordered by you to finalize the list but you want the list to choose your share - as a buying club, we are buying in bulk and need to know what you want that's why most buying clubs don't even offer options, it's a one-size-box-fits-all.  We allow for a lot of customization but do need the order in by the deadline, which is gracious.  We do list the guidelines to what goes into each box and add on to assist you in choosing before knowing what is in each box each pickup.
    

    The list of what is expected for South Florida (Miami-Dade, Monroe, Broward) is posted Friday, after the cut off, though that may not make sense to you, that is because we need to know how many of what kind of shares to finalize our boxes.  However, unlike other buying clubs, we do offer options even past the deadline.  If you see the list and realize you forgot to tell us you are allergic to something or you really want a fruit or herb add on, simply log in and add it under NOTES for this share.  We WILL see those notes and do the best we can to accommodate you and add it on or make that sub even though it is past the deadline.
    

19. QWhat's the differences in the boxes that are available?
20. AOur goal is to have this work for you so that you eat and enjoy more fresh organics daily.  Unlike many other clubs with a one size fits all approach, we have created several box options and add ons which, in effect, allow you to customize your share a bit.  You can even add allergies or notes once shares are posted if you need some things swapped out for others.  You can keep the same share each time or have one share biweekly and another biweekly or even log on to change your share each pickup, the choice is yours.

    
    

    Choose from:

    1.    The Full shareis our most popular box.  It always contains a great variety and ever changing selection of organic fruits and vegetables.  We try to include something a bit more unique in each box and of course recipes to help you enjoy everythign in your share.  Members have priced out our shares at local grocery stores and farmer's markets and find it is about a 20-25% discount and would have cost around $60-65 that is IF you could even find all those things.  This is $45.

    2.    The Veggie/Berry is our low glycemic box and includes more vegetables and no/little fruit.  It is usually heavier in leafies and includes only one or two berries when those are included in the Full share (and they usually are in there each pick up) but some weeks may be vegetables only.  You will not get any other fruits.  This share will not include potatoes and usually no to little root vegetbles including carrots.  This share does not include Corn or sweeter vegetables.  This box is $35
    
    3.    Fruity45 has more of the sweet stuff!  This share is ideal for those of us not cooking as much or those that enjoy fruits over vegetables.  This will rarely if ever include a lettuce or a leafy green and does not tend to include more unusual vegetables.  It is a more basic box.  This is a good option for making baby food and for kids and those of us that just don't want those leafy greens.  This box is $45.

    4.    Half share include a selection of the items in the Full share.  You will receive less quantity where we can include fewer items or less selection in order bo make up the $10 difference since this box is $35.  This is good for a single person who needs less produce or a family who eats out a bit or doesn't cook as much.

    5.    Juicer’s Delight isn’t just for juicers, it’s great for those who want just want some vegetables and a little fruit each week or some of us that get a regular share and want additional produce.  The produce included in this box can be juiced but can also be prepared or eaten in meals.  This share or add-on is $20.

    6.    Only Fruit share includes only fruits, especially great as a biweekly share if you run out of fruit in between and need more than the $20 fruit.  This is a mix of fruit usually from those listed for the Full share and the Fruit add-on options.

    Add-ons that are available to further customize your box include:

    1. $10 Fruit add-on for those of us who need a little more fruit.  This may be additional fruit from the selection already included in the Full share or additional kinds of fruit
    2. $20 Fruit add-on is not just a double up of the $10 fruit but rather a bigger selection and in some cases more quantity of fruits
    3. $20 Juicers described above
    4. $5 Leafy is usually 2 leafy greens, if we have the boxed greens it may include one of those, at times we may include a green vegetable but normally it is a Romaine and Lacinato Kale or your choice of 2 leafies available that week.  You can log into your account and add a note if you want to specify which you want from the list posted under "This Week's Shares"
    5. $10 My Family Needs More includes more vegetables that are in the Full share, it includes those things that families would tend to want more that week and is, as with our other shares and add-ons, an outstanding value.
21. QDo we return empty milk bottles?
22. AMany members have asked and we appreciate it but by the time we return them back to the farm (fuel costs, etc) it negates the positive effect.  We do not charge a deposit on them and we simply ask members to recycle locally.
23. QI see the location description, do I just show up at the corner of that area?
24. AGroups are labeled by description to make it easier for you to choose the one most convenient for you.  You will be picking up from someone's home or place of business.  We do not give out that information until you sign up and choose your pick up date and get payment in for your first share.  Prior to pick up you will receive an email confirmation with the date, exact location, address, name, phone, and pick up windows for your share.  You will be sent reminder emails prior to each pick up as a courtesy.  Hope you enjoy!
    
25. QWhat are the pick up times generally?
26. AGenerally most groups offer pickup windows 3:30pm - 6:30pm.  Some offer an earlier pick up window and a later one; others offer a more strict pickup window.  The coordnator will email you day of delivery with the pick up window unless stated in the email confirmation you receive two days prior to pick up, and even then things may change as someone may have an emergency come up or the delivery may be delayed.
    

    I assure you that coordinators will work to find a mutually convenient time to pick up.  We don't tend to have a big issue with pick up times.  And yes, in general, pick ups are in the window 3:30p-6:30p at most locations.
    

Web Site Issues

1. QI'm already a member, I was a member and signed up months ago and am just reinstating but I cannot login or remember my password?
2. AWelcome to our NEW interactive website.  Those of you that have been with us a while can see we have changed things quite a bit.  Our old site was static.  That means that every single payment, every allergy, every vacation or change in pick up date, every change in share or adding on extra items, each of these things had to be done manually for each and every member.  We have 1000 members.  You can imagine the workload.  Most of the time we got it right but we missed a few, we apologize again, and hopefully you can understand how and why we may have made an error on occasion.  But now, NOW, we offer our NEW interactive site.

   We ask that you sign up, create a log in password, and feel free to check back often to change your share, add on items, change locations, add your vacation information to skip a share - you now have control over your membership!  We are working on the site reading all payments, especially those online, automatically so this will allow us to apply payments faster to the respective share and keep on top of any changes, skipped shares, and refunds very quickly.  This site is still in BETA so if you encounter an error, or even better as you work through it when you have suggestions for improvement of functionality, please let us know - we want to make this a better experience for you as the member and our hardworking ABC staff.

   Remember, even if you have already signed up in our old static site, please sign up on our new site.   This site will only allow you to choose your NEXT possible pick up, that will not affect your current week's pick up if you are scheduled.  We are transitioning into the new site.  Just be sure that you choose your next possible pick up (if biweekly, make sure the date is accurate) and remember to use the vacation feature if you are skipping a pick up.

   Thanks and hope you enjoy this new experience many several months in the making -

3. QI cannot find Dade County or cannot find my city in the pull down - help!
4. AOh, old habits do die hard.  For those of us that have been in Miami for a while, it's hard to remember but years back we all voted and yup ithe name was decidely changed (don't believe me, check out a bus logo!) to Miami-Dade County.

   
   

   And a variety of cities are detailed but some are still listed (as per the post office so that's the database we're using) generally as Miami so after pulling down the county and looking for the name of your city, if you still cannot find it or there is no group listed under that city, pull down Miami and it may be there.

5. Qhelp! I cannot seem to make a payment, the site keeps taking me back to the login screen
6. AIt could be because you don’t have the most current version of the site cached as we are adding new functionality all the time enhancing the site and user experience. 
   

   All you need to do is clear your cookies:

   Usually all it takes is Tools -> Internet Options -> Delete Browsing History (cookies and cache).  Close out internet explorer and log into the site...and it's works.

7. QI'm having trouble posting payments on the site, why isn't the site working?
8. AIt could be because you don’t have the most current version of the site cached as we are adding new functionality all the time enhancing the site and user experience. 
   

   All you need to do is clear your cookies:

   Usually all it takes is Tools -> Internet Options -> Delete Browsing History (cookies and cache).  Close out internet explorer and log into the site...and it's works.

Payments

1. QI am on Amazon Subscription, do I still need to use Google now to pay?
2. AIf you are currently on Amazon subscription, your sub will run as you set it up.  We will update your account with your payment so there is no need to make a payment through Google.  We are working on the site reading all subscriptions automatically.
   
3. QHow do I make a payment?
4. APayment is officially due a week prior to your scheduled pick up.  We offer a variety of payment options for your convenience:
   1. You can make a bank transfer from your Bank of America account online to ours. This is the most immediate way to get your share quickly since funds are deposited immediately. This only works if you also have a Bank of America account.
   2. You can drop off cash, check, cashier's check, or money order with your Buying Club Coordinator who can send it in for you as a group. When paying by cash, be sure to get a receipt.  After your first payment gets your account set up for your first share pick up, you may find this option the most convenient. This is the least preferred method.
   3. If you want to PAY AT PICK UP for your first share and the next one, please add a comment by clicking the post-it note "add a note" after you log into your account that you will pay for this share and next at your first pickup. That way we will have your share and waive the late fee so you can do that.
   4. You an use Google on the site.  It is secure.  Payment will automatically post to your account.
   5. You can pay with NO fees by Dwolla, a secure service that has been getting a lot of press lately so I'm sure you've heard of it.  You can pay with your phone once you are signed up for this service AND they offer auto payments - this is the best method for payment since there are no fees for you, it offers auto options, it is secure, and you can pay by phone or online easily.  If you don't yet have an account, you can quickly set up your account and find us here:  

      www.dwolla.com/u/812-461-5621 or find us with our email info@anniesbuyingclub.com
      

   6. To mail a payment or set up BILL PAY by mail directly to ABC.  Please make sure they arrive at least 10 days prior to your next pick up to allow time to process your check by mail.  Mail to:

   Annie's Buying Club
   862 S. Tamiami Trail
   Osprey, FL 34229

   Remember a share will always be ordered for you as per your schedule
   (either weekly or biweekly)
   so make sure payment is in at least one week in advance
   to avoid a $5 late fee or if you need to suspend a week,
   give us at least a week's notice to find someone else to take your share.
   To help, you can set up a subscription instead of just paying for this one share now.
   You can cancel your subscription at any time. 
   Simply log into your account and change your next pick up date to skip or suspend shares.

   
   
5. QHow can I pay and when is it due?
6. AWe try to make it as convenient as possible for you to prepay for your share.  Payment is due at least one week in advance but if paying online with Google there is a grace period.  Payment must be posted to your account by Thursday morning before pick up if you pick up Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday or no later than Monday morning if you pick up Thursday or Friday.  You can pay by:
   1. Amazon subscription - if you are not already set up for this and want to set up to be on auto payment, email us and we'll send you the details however at this time we are not setting up new subscriptions
   2. Google one-time payment - remember to log in before the deadline to prepay for your next share OR log in to skip the next share, that way you will avoid the $5 late fee.
   3. Check by Mail - if you like using your bill pay method, you will see the address under Contact Us page.  If using check by mail, please allow additional time for processing and mail, therefore be sure checks are mailed out at least 10 days in advance of the next pick up, preferably two weeks in advance to allow for any mail and processing delays.
   4. Bank of America transfer - if you bank with BoA this is very easy but again it is not automatic so you have to remember to pay by deadline each time
   5. Cash at pick up - remember to get a receipt please and Bring Exact Change.  Coordinators are not responsible for making change so if you bring more than your share amount, the rest will show as a credit on your account for a future share.  Again this is not automatic so you must remember to pay at least a week in advance.
   6. Check at pick up to your coordinator for the next share
7. QI'm new and don't want to pay online, I'd prefer to pay my coordinator, how do I pay for my first share?
8. AIf you are new, or if you forgot to pay your coordinator at pick up the prior week for your next share, please log into the site, click MODIFY MY SHARE and scroll down to the NOTES section.  Add a note there that you choose to pay at pick up for this share and next and we will send your share and honor your request.  Please remember to pick up on time and bring your coordinator payment for both this share and the next one to avoid the $5 late fee.
   
9. QDo you issue refunds?
10. AYou use your payment to pick up the next share, we can postpone it until you are ready.  Just log into the site and choose your next pick up date. 

    We do not issue refunds.  We use your payments and any excess payment toward future shares.

    However, if you are on a credit card sub, Amazon subsription, for example, then once the next one runs we will refund the one you had requested to skip online.  Remember to always input that information online before the deadline.  If you are suspending for an extended period of time, be sure to CANCEL your Amazon subscription to avoid confusion and rememeber to log onto the site to suspend your shares.

11. QI want to pay the coordinator directly for my first share, I don't want to pay online, ok?
12. AYou do not need to pay online for your first share.  We just need to know that you will pay at pick up for your first share and next and we will happily send the share for you.  Log into your account, under Notes for this share include a note that you will pay at pick up.  That is our preferred method of payment.  Thank you!
    
13. QWhat's the preferred payment method and how can I best pay for my share?
14. AWe had offered a variety of options, our preferred method is the first:
    
    1. Set up Bill Pay auto checks from your bank to us using the address listed under Contact Us for payments, remember payments need to arrive at least a week prior to your scheduled pick up
       
    2. Pay by Google online no later than the Thursday prior to pick up, you have to remember to log in and do this as it is not automatic
       
    3. Give your coordinator a check at pick up for the NEXT share
    4. Pay your coordinator cash at pick up (but exact change only or any excess will be posted as a credit toward future shares) for the NEXT share - remember to sign the sheet showing the amount you paid cash or get a receipt
       
    5. Make a Bank of America bank transfer - this is easy for those with BoA however it is not automated so you must remember to do it each week
       
    6. Existing Amazon subscriptions

    With any of the above options one thing is very important as we transition to this new online system.  Payments MUST be in at least a week in advance so that coordinators have time to post it by the deadline for the site.

    That means if you have a AMZ Sub, it must run at least a week before your pick up.  If it does not, please either cancel it and pay with another option OR pay with check or cash at pick up for one share so that the next payment posting can be used for your next share.

    Bank of America transfers MUST be in at least a week in advance so that we have time to post them to your accuont on the site before the deadline.

15. QI am skipping a share and have Amazon Subscription and noticed it still ran, why?
16. AYou can skip your share online, that's no trouble.  Amazon subscription payments will run exactly as you had set it up, on the exact day for the exact amount you had set it up.  It will continue to run exactly as you set it up unless you cancel your subscription. If you choose to keep it active and not cancel your sub, we will run a refund on that payment once the next one runs as long as your Amazon sub was running at least a week in advance.  If it was running closer to your pick up date, then the skip in share might allow it to run on time and at least a week in advance.

    Please note that if you cancel your subscription because you are not picking up, please be sure to also suspend your share online otherwise we will continue to send your share not knowing if you canceled it intentionally or if it canceled because there were issues with your card.  We send shares as a courtesy to members who have been with us so please extend the same courtesy and suspend your shares.

17. QI know my Amazon will continue to run even though I skipped a share, when can I expect the refund to post?
18. AAs you know, Amazon will run exactly as you set it up, either weekly or biweekly, and for the amount you had indicated.  You can always cancel that if you are skipping a share but usually members let it run unless they are skipping more than 2 shares.  We run refunds on shares that are missed and don't mind doing that as long as it's not an excessive amount (so if you are leaving for several weeks, please cancel your amazon subscription.)
    

    We run refunds usually at your next pick up for any excess charges.  In other words, we will not run a refund until your charge runs again because we cannot see that it is an excess until you have at least two charges posted in the system.  Therefore it usually takes 2-4 weeks to post and see a refund.
    

    However, if your amazon sub was not running at least a week in advance, then we will take your skipped share as a time to get that back on track.  Payment is due at least a week in advance.  If your amazon ran closer than a week in advance, by skipping a share that will allow it to now run a week in advance therefore no credit would be due but of course you are still using that payment that was posted, only for a later share.

19. QWhere do I send a payment?
20. APlease send payments to our mailing address.  We find the PO Box more secure.

    Mailing address:
    Annie's Buying Club
    PO Box 793
    Osprey, FL 34229

    Physical address:
    Annie's Buying Club
    862 S. Tamiami Trail
    Osprey, FL 34229

21. QCan I pay with a credit card?
22. ARemember a share will always be ordered for you as per your schedule (either weekly or biweekly) so make sure payment is in at least one week in advance
    to avoid a $5 late fee or if you need to suspend a week, give us at least a week's notice to find someone else to take your share.  To help, you can set up a subscription on Amazon instead of just paying for this one share now.  You can cancel your subscription at any time but we do ask for a week's notice so we don't order a share for you.
    
    Google is integrated into the site.  You can pay with Google online by the cut off deadline (by Thursday morning for Mon/Tues/Wed pickups and by Monday morning for Thurs/Fri pickups.)  This is not an automatic recurring payment so you have to log in to pay each week. 
    

    If you want to skip a week remember that we do not skip you simply for nonpayment, please log on and change your next pick up date.

23. QWhat are the fees if I bounce a check or it is returned NSF?
24. A

    Look, we understand mistakes can happen. These kinds of things cost us money. Please make sure there are sufficient funds in your account and don't bounce your payment as we will charge $20 for a bounced check or returned check NSF and you will have to prepay by cash for all future orders. If we have to hire a firm to collect the fees, you will be responsible for their fees too.

25. QWhat if I'm late making my payment? Can I still get my box?
26. A

    We have you scheduled to pick up weekly or every other week. Payment is expected by the week before your next pick up so we have the funds to buy your share for you. If you do not pay on time, we will do our best to still get your share for you but we will require a $5 late fee so please, just get your payment in on time, best to just make payment when you pick up your prior share.

27. QWhat is Dwolla and is it safe?
28. A
    Is Dwolla safe?
    
    
    Dwolla isn’t only safe, it’s safer than plastic!
    
    The numbers on your card correspond with a bunch of private information that can easily be stolen and used fraudulently and every time you flash your card or hand it to a waiter, you're jeopardizing your financial security. With Dwolla, none of your information is transferred/released/captured/transcribed during a transaction. Furthermore, our mobile and online payments are layered with security features that not even banks or the credit card industries have. Simply put, we allow you to move your money the way you want to without exposing or sharing your personal information to a third party.
    
    
    So, what is Dwolla exactly?

    
    

    Dwolla allows you to pay, like Visa or Mastercard and PayPal; however, we do it without the expensive fees, debt-inducing policies, and antiquated plastic credit cards.
    

Picking Up my Box of Organics

1. QI need to request a later pick up due to my schedule. Will my food keep okay?
2. A

   We will always do our best to accommodate you with a mutually convenient pick up time between you and your coordinator. Please understand that we are a community buying club and not a store. Items are received into someone's home and are not under refrigeration once delivered. You will be given the delivery and pick up times for your location. For optimal freshness, pick up your share within two hours of delivery. We can only guarantee the quality within that two hour window. If you KNOW you are going to be later than that, in order to keep more sensitive produce fresh, we highly recommend you drop off a cooler with frozen ice packs the morning of your delivery. Your coordinator is happy to pack your share in your cooler for you to keep it at a better temperature.

3. QWhat if something I get isn't in good condition? What if something is missing from my box? What is your credit, refund or return policy?
4. A

   Our buying club focuses on fresh organic perishable produce. We recieve shipiments directly from the farms and suppliers. You will generally find the quality impeccably fresh. In fact, our members find our produce lasts longer because it is so fresh: directly from farm to truck to us!

   We do send you and post a list of everything we expect to receive each week, however substitutions may occur due to quality or availability issues. We always try to substitute something for another similar item as best we can, and we always include the same value. So while we try to get the same things for every group, sometimes one group may receive something different as a substitution or may, at times, receive more of something if something else wasn't available in the same quantity, making sure each box is always the same great value.

   Please inspect your box before you leave your pick up location. We can only get a credit from our farms and suppliers by letting them know about any issues within two hours of delivery.

   If there is an issue with an item in your share, leave it with the coordinator and explain why it is unacceptable to you. If there was a problem (noticeable bruise from mishandling, for example) we will get you a replacement item or add something to your box in the coming weeks.

   The driver and your group coordinator will refuse any produce that does not meet our high standards of freshness and quality. There may be times that something is substituted for another item of equal value. We each must take responsibility for our own shares.

   If something does not arrive as expected, the coordinator will have refused it. In that case, it will not be included in your box and you will be advised of that fact. We will then get a credit from our supplier for that case and they will in turn add something extra at corresponding value to make up for this issue in a future delivery.

   We are a cooperative and as such work together to make sure you get the value for which you have paid. We do not credit your credit card. We do not issue cash credits. We do not issue credit codes. We do not refund cash or refund money. We will make sure to include something of equal value in future orders. We will make it up to you with extra gloriously fresh produce and extra attention to your share. We want each member to be happy because, as a buying club, we can only continue our service by working together.
   
   Everything is as fresh as possible since we are getting it direct. Because of that it's important to note that we do not expect regular issues but understand there may be some on occasion that we will work to correct. We reserve the right to cancel membership when there are excessive requests for credits or if they are found unreasonable.

5. QOh no! I forgot to pick up my share or I'm running really late, what do I do now?
6. A

   You prepay for your share a week or two in advance and you are responsible for picking up your share or having someone else pick it up for you during the set pick up hours, or a mutually convenient time as set between you and the coordinator, on your delivery day.

   We understand that emergencies happen and you may be delayed on occasion. Please contact our main office 800-517-5121 or better, your coordinator directly, before the close of the time allocated for pick up at your location to let him or her know of your delay and when you expect to be there. We will make every effort to coordinate a late pick up for you. We may even be able to ask another member to drop it off as a courtesy to you but we make no warrants or guarantees that we can make exceptions to the agreed upon pick up location and time for you to pick up your share. If you cannot pick up your share and you cannot get anyone else to pick up your share for you, and if we cannot make other arrangements to get your share to you that day, you may donate your share to a food bank, donate it to another needy family, or we can split it amongst the other members in your group.
   If you completely forget to pick up your share and do not call (and get a hold of us) or email us (with email confirmation of a reply) before your pick up time has expired, we will take that as permission to donate your share. No refunds or credits will be issued for missed shares.
   Please note that the coordinator may charge, at her or his discretion, a late pick up fee of no more than $5 if you pick up much after your specified pick-up window, especially without prior arrangement with the coordinator. That fee will be paid directly to the coordinator. Also note that picking up your share late consistently or forgetting to pick up your share may cause the cancellation of your membership. We are a buying club, not a store, and must work together and be courteous to make this work. We do our part of getting the fresh organics to you, you do your part of paying and picking it up in a timely manner.
    
7. QI am scheduled to pick up on Monday but Labor Day, Memorial Day or Yom Kippor fall on Monday?
8. A

   Most Monday deliveries will be rescheduled for WEDNESDAY on days that a holiday falls on Monday unless otherwise explained by your coordinator so please confirm with her or him for your location.

   FOR LABOR DAY: All of Broward and Palm Beach EXCEPT for HOLLYWOOD will get deliveries TUESDAY even if you normally get a delivery on Monday. All of Miami-Dade EXCEPT for HOMESTEAD will get deliveries WEDNESDAY. If you normally get a Tuesday delivery, that will remain the same.

   REMINDER - if you normally get a delivery on Monday, Memorial Day your delivery is moved to WEDNESDAY instead. Doral delivery will be Tuesday instead of Monday that week. All other deliveries will be unchanged based upon the regular schedule

What's in the Boxes

1. QWhat if I don't like or can't use something included that week? What if I'm allergic to a particular fruit or vegetable?
2. A

   Our shares are always a good balanced mix of fruits and vegetables. We purchase each week based upon the requests of any given group and can customize orders to each groups preferences.

   Most weeks you will enjoy everything in your box fully. But there may be a week here or there that you get something that may be new to you, you may not like, or worse, you may be allergic to a particular fruit or vegetable one week. The good news is that even if you don't like or can't use one item, the shares are such a great value that it won't really matter. Even without one thing here or there, the box would still have been more had you bought it at the local grocery store. But we try harder. If you cannot use it, we will offer an extras table at your pick up location where you can place any item and take something as a replacement.

   When we know that you are allergic, we will not even add it to your box. When we know you cannot use something, we will do our best to replace it this week or another week with something of equal value. If something is strange or new to you, we make it easy for you to try it.

   We include recipes to help you and can answer questions on the best or simplest way to enjoy something. We want each member to be happy and figure that over the course of several weeks, it all works out well for all of us.

3. QHow can I let you know what I want in my share?
4. A

   Since we are a buying club we are pooling our money and buying in bulk like a retail store only without the middle man so our produce is fresher and we get it at a better price. While we cannot customize each share, we do care about what you want since this is your club. When you complete your registration we will ask specifics about what you do and don't want generally however, each group can customize their box as a group decision. Please tell your coordinator or email me to let us know what you want the following week and we'll order it if available and as long as no one in your group has a strong dislike to those items. We want you to get the fruits and vegetables you use most so always tell us how to improve our shares and service.

5. QWhat did you get in your shares recently? I'd like actual examples of the selection you receive to help me decide.
6. A

   Variety and selection changes each week. We do listen to your requests and can customize boxes for groups. The boxes are always super fresh with a nice balance of fruits and vegetables and never boring. We always source as much local produce as possible first and supplement with produce requested by members. Remember that there is usually a swap box so you can put something you don't want and take something you prefer; many times there are extras that all members getting a full share are welcome to choose as well. We always include recipes and can help answer questions about preparing everything in your box each week. We want you to eat and enjoy everything in your box.

   To give you an idea of what you can expect, here are some examples of actual past shares that we have received. This is also the place to visit to see what we are expecting to receive in the coming week. Please check here each Friday (late morning/early afternoon) for an updated list of the fresh organics you will get to enjoy in the upcoming share* the following Monday or Tuesday:

   For Organic Produce pick up this week - Optional Add-on:

   • 1lb Organic Baby Spinach $5.25
   • 1lb Organic Mixed Salad Greens in clamshell $5.25
   • 5oz Organic Baby Arugula $3.25
   • Large Organic (brown) Happy Hen or Alderfer (white) Eggs $4/dozen (you know color only has to do w/the hen's earlobe color)
   • Seven Stars organic biodynamic 32oz Vanilla Yogurt $5
   • Seven Stars organic biodynamic 32oz Plain Yogurt $5.00
   • Seven Stars organic biodynamic 320z Plain LOWFAT Yogurt $5
   • Whole Milk in Glass, Quart, Organic, Grassfed, non-homogenized, $3.79
   • Lowfat 1% milk in glass, grassfed organic, Natural by Nature, $3.79

   Link here to grab our flyer to email to friends - thanks for sharing the love!

   Download Adobe Acrobat to read our recipes.

   This is our expected list* but substitutions may occur due to quality concerns. This is the list expected for south Florida, for those from Palm Beach county and further north, the list may be a little different and normally each group will get an email with the list to expect although substitutions may still occur with something of comprable value.

   Sept 20th brings our Italian-inspired box of fresh organics including:

   • Strawberries
   • Muscat Grapes
   • Grand Rosa Plums
   • Gold Kiwi #
   • Red Starkrimson Pears
   • Fair Trade Bananas
   • Aritchokes
   • Eggplant
   • Arugula#
   • Romaine#
   • Slicing Tomatoes
   • Broccollette
   • Spinach
   • Zucchini
   • LOCAL FL Avocado (hey it's all we can get locally now, at least it's something)

   SPECIAL My Family Needs More $10 Add-on:

   • Eggplant - 1 more, shares include 1 so if you get the full share and this you'll have 2
   • Spinach - 1 more bunch, shares include 1 so if you get the full share and this you'll have 2
   • Artichokes - 2 more, full shares include 3 so if you get a full share and this you'll have 5
   • Zucchini - 1 more lb so if you get the full share and this you'll have 2lbs

   FRUITY45:

   • Strawberries
   • Muscat Grapes
   • Grand Rosa Plums
   • Gold Kiwi
   • Red Starkrimson Pears
   • Fair Trade Bananas
   • sweet Golden Pineapple
   • Nectarines
   • Gala Apples
   • Slicing Tomatoes
   • Broccollette
   • Spinach
   • Zucchini
   • LOCAL FL Avocado

   Veggie/Berry35:

   • Strawberries
   • Escarole
   • Fennel
   • Lacinato Kale
   • Aritchokes
   • Eggplant
   • Arugula
   • Romaine
   • Slicing Tomatoes
   • Broccollette
   • Spinach
   • Zucchini
   • LOCAL FL Avocado

   ONLYFruit35:

   • Strawberries
   • Red Starkrimson Pears
   • Fair Trade Bananas
   • Muscat Grapes
   • Gold Kiwi
   • Red Rosa Plums
   • Gala Apples
   • Nectarines
   • sweet Golden Pineapple

   $10 Fruit Add-on:

   • Raspberries
   • sweet Golden Pineapple
   • Green Goose Pluots

   $20 Fruit Add-on:

   • Raspberries
   • sweet Golden Pineapple
   • Green Goose Pluots
   • Black Mission Figs
   • Honeycrisp Apples

   $5 Leafy: your choice of 2 leafies:

   • Lacinato Kale
   • Romaine
   • Spinach
   • Arugula
   • Escarole

   $5 Herb Share:

   • Basil
   • Italian Flat Leaf Parsley OR Fennel
   • Lemon Shot (impossible to get lemons now, so this is a little bottle of lemon juice with zest that is actually very good!)

   Sept 13th shares are BIG on vibrant color and flavor with multi-colored Rainbow Chard, red & white striped Candy Cane Beets, sweet Honeycrisp Apples, Red/Green Grapes, Green Puots, Oranges, Purple Kohlrabi, Red Peppers and recipes to use:

   FULL Shares:

   • Strawberries#
   • Honeycrisp Apples - OH MERCY ME! coming into season!
   • Red and/or Green Grapes
   • Valencia Oranges
   • Green Goose Pluots
   • Fair Trade Bananas
   • Broccoli
   • Chioggia Candy Cane Beets
   • Purple Kohlrabi# - whaaaa?  delish! OR Hass Avocados #
   • Rainbow Chard
   • Shallots
   • Celery
   • Bibb Lettuce
   • Slicing Tomatoes
   • Holland Red Peppers - picture perfect
   • Hard Squash - Acorn, Butternut or Spaghetti

   #not in Half Shares

   pictured chiogga beet carpaccio courtesy vegalicious.com

   FRUITY45:

   • Strawberries
   • Honeycrisp Apples - OH MERCY ME!
   • Red and/or Green Grapes
   • Valencia Oranges
   • Green Goose Pluots
   • Fair Trade Bananas
   • Cantaloupe
   • GOLDEN Kiwi - mmmmm... or Black Plums
   • Nectarines
   • Broccoli
   • Bibb Lettuce
   • Slicing Tomatoes
   • Holland Red Peppers - picture perfect
   • Hard Squash - Acorn, Butternut or Spaghetti

   Veggie/Berry35:

   • Strawberries
   • Broccoli
   • Chioggia Candy Cane Beets
   • Purple Kohlrabi - whaaaa?  delish!
   • Rainbow Chard
   • Dandelion Greens
   • Shallots
   • Celery
   • Bibb Lettuce
   • Romaine Lettuce
   • Slicing Tomatoes
   • Holland Red Peppers - picture perfect
   • Hass Avocados

   ONLYFruit35:

   • Strawberries
   • Honeycrisp Apples - OH MERCY ME!
   • Red and/or Green Grapes
   • Valencia Oranges
   • Green Goose Pluots
   • Fair Trade Bananas
   • Cantaloupe
   • GOLDEN Kiwi - mmmmm... or Black Plums
   • Nectarines

   $10 FRUIT:

   • Cantaloupe
   • Honeycrisp Apples even more of these deliciousness
   • GOLDEN Kiwi or Black Plums

   $20 FRUIT:

   • Cantaloupe
   • Honeycrisp Apples even more of these deliciousness
   • Figs - if you missed out last week, c'mon!
   • Sweet Mini Watermelon
   • GOLDEN Kiwi - mmmmm... or Black Plums

   $5 Leafy add-on includes your choice of two of the following:

   • Lacinato Kale
   • Romaine Lettuce
   • Bibb Lettuce
   • Rainbow Chard
   • Dandelion Greens

   Sept 6th brings us delicious things to help celebrate Labor Day (well if you pick up Monday) and Rosh Hashanah (for those celebrating, wishing you a Sweet New Year) including (click here for recipes):

   • Figs
   • Strawberries
   • Green Seedless Grapes - have been yummy sweet!
   • Fair Trade Bananas
   • Peaches# (soon will be out of season)
   • Brussels Sprouts (try them roasted!)
   • White Button Mushrooms
   • Delicata Squash
   • Broccolini
   • Collards
   • Green Beans
   • Carrots#
   • Romaine
   • Slicing Tomatoes
   • Red Onions

   FRUITY45:

   • Figs
   • Strawberries
   • Green Seedless Grapes - have been yummy sweet!
   • Fair Trade Bananas
   • Peaches (soon will be out of season)
   • Sweet Golden Pineapple
   • Flavor Heart Pluots
   • Ginger Gold Apples
   • White Button Mushrooms
   • Broccolini
   • Green Beans
   • Carrots
   • Romaine
   • Slicing Tomatoes
   • Red Onions

   Veggie/Berry:

   • Figs
   • Strawberries
   • Brussels Sprouts (try them roasted!)
   • White Button Mushrooms
   • Beets w/Tops or Lacinato Kale
   • Delicata Squash
   • Broccolini
   • Collard Greens
   • Green Beans
   • Romaine
   • Slicing Tomatoes
   • Red Onions

   ONLYFruit35:

   • Figs
   • Strawberries
   • Green Seedless Grapes - have been yummy sweet!
   • Fair Trade Bananas
   • Peaches
   • Sweet Golden Pineapple
   • Flavor Heart Pluots
   • Sweet Mini Watermelon
   • Ginger Gold Apples

   $10 FRUIT add-on:

   • Sweet Mini Watermelon
   • Flavor Heart Pluots
   • Ginger Gold Apples or Mango

   $20 FRUIT add-on:

   • Sweet Mini Watermelon
   • Flavor Heart Pluots
   • Ginger Gold Apples
   • Sweet Golden Pineapple
   • Ginger Gold Apples or Mango
   • Raspberries

   link here to see more actual past shares and the recipes included for what we've received

   # Half shares do not include these items. Half shares get less of the above items in quantity and less selection (so may be missing one or more items to make up the difference in cost, we've tried to mark the things not included with a # but other things may be in less quantity than the full share)

   *remember that the list for the upcoming share is what we expect to receive but due to quality or changes in availability something of equal value may be substituted

7. QI'm afraid I won't know what to do with something - do you offer recipe and cooking tips for the contents of each box?
8. A

   But of course! We always include recipes that use all of the vegetables in each box (many include several of the vegetables in any one given recipe) and sometimes even some great recipes to use some of the fresh fruit. We also include information on a vegetable or fruit that may be new to you and some preparation tips. Plus, give us a call or email, we're here to help make sure you eat and enjoy your veggies! Link here for our box recipes from past shares.

Skipping a Pick Up, Vacation, Suspension

1. QI still have too much food OR I am going out of town OR I simply need to skip a pick up, can I do that?
2. AYes!  Unlike other buying clubs where you must find a replacement and cannot skip a week here and there, we DO allow you to set your own pick ups and change your next pick up, skip for vacation, emergencies, or just because you haven't had time to eat up the last delicious share.
   

   That’s easy to do.  We do NOT do that through email so please do not use the Contact Us or email to send us the dates you need to skip.  With this new web site, we put you in complete control over when you pick up your next share. 
   

   Simply log onto your site before the deadline (Thursday for groups getting delivery Mon, Tues, Wed and Monday for groups getting delivery Thursday and Friday) – click Modify My Share, scroll just a little to pick up dates/suspension periods and input either a vacation time and next pick up date or your next pick up date and you’ll be all set. If you want to be extra sure, before you click "update" at the bottom of the page there is an area for "Notes for this share"  - add a note there that you are skipping and input the date so we are both clear.
   

   If it's PAST the deadline and it's an emergency, please use the NOTES area.  We will do our best to sell your share on your behalf (and we usually can sell it) but if you want to send a friend to buy it for you, we can accommodate you on that too.
   

   We are happy to be able to allow members to skip shares anytime with notice, other buying clubs don’t allow that kind of flexibility.  We cannot change a pick up from an email or contact us email so please do not send us your dates or call with that information.  We will go by the information you include on the web site under your share.  Enjoy the flexibility of our new site!

3. QWoops I forgot I'm going out of town and need to skip my share, how do I do that?
4. AIt's easy! No, don't post it on FB and don't email me or Tanya.
   

   Just log onto the site (before your deadline) and Modify Your Share and change your next pick up date, kind of share, location, add-ons, etc. Control over your share is now at your fingertips so enjoy the functionality!
   
   If it's past the deadline, please click MODIFY MY SHARE and scroll to the bottom to NOTES for this share.  Add the date and whatever you would like us to sub or swap for you.  
   
   If you are trying to skip a share after the deadline, (which used to be a week prior to pick up and is not the Thursday before for groups picking up Mon, Tues, Wed and the Monday before for groups picking up Thursday and Friday), technically you cannot cancel your share.  You can add a comment under notes, again with the date, and be sure to use the pull down to choose the next pick up date.  While we cannot guarantee that we can sell your share, we will do our best to try to sell it on your behalf.  In the case that it is not sold, you may be responsible for the share.  Best to have a friend pick it up and pay for the share so that we can forward your payment to the next pick up.

5. QI have to suspend my membership for now, how do I do that?
6. AWe allow lots of flexibility so it's easy to skip or even suspend your share(s).  If you are new and tried just one box, we do ask that you try at least one more, preferably two.  Instead of having membership fees, we ask for only three pick ups to see if this works for you.  It is quite difficult to make an accurate assesment based upon one box - it could have had all your favorites or all your least faves or we could have had quality issues.  These can happen, it is produce after all, organic at that, highly perishable, but if you don't get another box you wouldn't see how we correct errors by adding to the next share.  You won't see how we rotate staple items.  You won't see how there are other options and add ons that might work better for you. 
   

   We offer many kinds of shares from which you can choose to find the best one for you.  You can even change the kind of box and add ons for each pickup.  We'd ask that you give yourself the opportunity to see why over 1000 members love us and find they are eating better and more delicious foods at a great value.

   If you have to suspend, just log into Member Log in, click Modify My Share, then scroll to the dates/vacation area and click the box that reads "suspend indefinitely."  I'm sorry you'll be leaving us for a while.  When you are ready to resume be sure to log in, uncheck that suspend box, choose your next pick up date and get your prepayment in for that share.  We hope you have enjoyed and we look forward to seeing you back again soon. 

7. QI tried a box but this isn't for me, how do I cancel? Do I simply not pay for my share?
8. AWe're sorry you don't think this will work for you.  It's hard to see our value and quality, how we rotate staples and include a nice variety of items from just one box.  It is produce, after all, so if there is a quality issue you would not know that is not the norm and that we correct it on your next pick up.  If you didn't get enough of something you may not realize that maybe we recently received those items.  We do ask new members to try just three boxes - there is no way you can tell if this will work from just one box.  We have a variety of kinds of boxes so maybe a different one will suit you better or adding a note about things you absolutely don't want so we can trade them out for you.  After your third share you will have a good understanding of how we work and how you might be able to best fit a box into your life.
   

   If after your third box you do find the need to cancel, simply log into your account, modify your share to suspend indefnitely.
   

   We include shares based upon the list ordered so if you are on the list for a share that week we will order a box for you.  Payment does not determine whether we order a box for you or not, the list does so make sure to log in before your deadline (Thursday before pick up for all deliveries Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday; Monday for Thursday and Friday groups) and suspend your shares.  If it's past the deadline you can add a note and we'll do our best to sell your share for you.
   

   We hope you have enjoyed and that we'll see you back again soon -
   

Storing Produce

1. QStorage for organic produce:
2. AStorage & Informational Tips:
   BANANAS: our organic bananas are not just organic, they are also Fair Trade.  Yes, they cost more, but we are proud to support that effort amidst the mafia horrors we hear about banana plantations.  Please note that they may not ever fully turn that gorgeous yellow you are used to in the stores.  We do not gas them with ethylene like the stores do.  That means they may very well ripen but still look green.  Ripeness can be determined by touch.  If they are no longer hard, if they start to get softer, you know the texture of a banana that is yellow, then enjoy.  They are some of the most delicious bananas even though they are not always the prettiest.  Monkeys in the zoo preferred the organic bananas hands down to the conventional ones, and many even ate the skins of the organic ones.
   
   CORN:  Organic corn is notorious for having big green caterpillery wormy things at the tops.  The first time you see this it may scare the heebeegeebees out of you, it did me.  Look at it as a good thing as you lop off the top, no chemicals were used, that's for sure!  So just cut off that tip and enjoy the rest of your organic non-GMO corn.  Always enjoy corn soon after receiving it as the sugars start to turn to starch once harvested - so freshest is best!
   
   TOMATOES:  sadly in south Florida some areas are just too humid with all the buildings so against sage advice, in south FL, the rules are different, and indeed if not consumed promptly tomatoes should, I hesitate to say it, be refrigerated.
   
   MANGOS and AVOCADOS tend to ripen much better on the counter but check frequently because it will depend upon the temp in your home.  Refrigerate once ripe.
   
   All other produce with the exception of onions and bananas should be refrigerated.
   
   Peaches, Cantaloupe, Apples, Honeydew, Watermelon, & Pineapple: should be always kept refrigerated.  They will mold on the counter but Cantaloupe & Peaches will ripen more slowly in the refrigerator and Pineapples will get juicier with a little time but don't ripen since they are harvested ripe.  Be sure to enjoy all soon after you get them as they should only take a few days to ripen.  Some of the peaches have been arriving a little soft so we've all been suffering through eating them immediately.  They have been sweet and delicious!
   
   Unlike conventional BERRIES, our berries are not gassed with chlorine so they will mold.  Always enjoy your berries, leafies and ripe fruit first since those are not as sturdy as some of the other fruits and veggies.  
   
   POTATOES:  you can keep in a cool place on the counter however they may start sprouting or if they get moist or are exposed to light, will go bad quickly.  Instead keep refrigerated in a brown bag.  When ready to use, leave on counter for several hours to bring to room temp and allow sugars that form from the chill to turn back into starch.

   BEETS, CARROTS, Anything WITH TOPS: snip off tops and store separately, tops as a green and bottoms as a root in the fridge.
   

   GREENS keep refrigerated in a plastic bag or wrapped in a towel in the drawer of your fridge.
   

   HERBS:  always snip ends upon receipt and then you can store most herbs in a vase like flowers.  Basil doesn't like cold so store in a cool place on your counter and use quickly or store in a paper towel in your fridge and use promptly.  Cilantro and parsley like cold so always store in the fridge.  Herbs do better generally in the fridge, wrapped in a paper towel and stored in a plastic or "green" bag
   

   
   

   Gret tips here but remember in south FL the rules are a little different and things will tend to rot on the counter with our humidity - apples, for example, should always be refrigerated:  http://wakeup-world.com/2011/09/08/increase-the-shelf-life-of-your-fruit-veg-without-using-toxic-plastic-products/
   

   
   
   

3. QThe bananas do not seem to ripen, am I doing something wrong or can I get those replaced with something else?
4. AThe bananas are always good, delicious in fact, however we have all gotten used to what they do to conventional bananas and what ripe looks like.  When they are picked green, and they always are, the bananas may not turn yellow but will indeed ripen.  We do not gas them, that’s why.  So once they are no longer hard, one they are the same desired softness you recognize, they can be enjoyed even if they are not the beautiful yellow we have come to expect.  
    
   However if you still do not want bananas, you can simply add a note in your account and we’ll sub them out for you.
    
   But yes I get them every week, we delivery gosh hundreds of cases, and most members agree that they are super delicious!  There was an experiment in a zoo some years back where monkeys were offered organic and conventional bananas.  They all chose and only chose the organic ones and many ate the peels too.  They must know something we don't see easily. 
   

   We get bananas every week so if it's too many, you can either add a note any given week you want us to sub them out or peel and freeze for smoothies or mock ice cream by putting the frozen bananas through a juicer.  enjoy!
   

5. QI just got my box of goodies, what should I use first, which things won't last as long?
6. AYou will notice that each box includes some things that can hold longer and others that will need to be enjoyed more quickly.  Of course storage can determine the time something can be kept too so please check storage tips.
   

   As a general rule, always enjoy your berries promptly, within days of receipt.  Keep in a cool dry place in your refrigerator. 
   

   Leafy greens, if stored properly are usually good for over a week but we encourage members to enjoy those early as well.
   

   Of course if anything is ripe upon pick up or shortly thereafter, eat those first too.
   

   As a general rule, root vegetables, detached from their green tops, hold up very well in the drawer in the refrigerator.  Hard squash also keeps longer as well as fall fruit like apples, pears.
   

   Bananas, if you don't use them, freeze them to make your smoothies rich and creamy chilly.
   

   If your refrigerator has a lot of condensation and moisture, if it is opened and closed often, things will go bad much mroe quickly.  This is only a guide and we cannot guarantee the storage of any produce but are happy to help answer questions to help you enjoy your box to it's fullest.  Remember that we do not gas our produce with chlorine so it will grow mold and go bad, proper storage is critical to longevity of fresh organic produce.  Hope our beautiful box encourages you to try new things and eat better every day!
   

Thanksgiving

1. QHow can I guarantee that I will get a fresh turkey for Thanksgiving?
2. AThe deposit to confirm your bird is due by Monday, October 3rd  After this date, we may have extras but not enough for everyone and we cannot guarantee the pre-order price or availability.   We will include the bird on a first come first serve basis so if you get your order in after cut off, the earlier orders with deposits will get those birds.  If you do not receive one, we will refund the deposit or you can opt to credit it to your account.
   

   You can pay with the Google deposit online or you can leave a check at pick up for the deposit amount or you can make a BoA transfer.

   Please understand that this is only a deposit.  Once you get your bird, we will adjust the price to the actual weight of your bird at the per lb price you confirmed.  If you made your deposit by Google, we will either credit you the difference or you can leave payment at pick up for the difference.  Please note that if using Google a 2.5% + .30 transaction fee will be added to the final total amount.  In the alternative, we can credit the Google deposit in full and you can pay by check or cash at pick up for the total of your particular bird.

   We will also offer fresh turkeys for Christmas and will have that on the site in November for you to pre-order.

Coordinator Info

1. QI'd like to become a coordinator, how do I do that?
2. ASend us an email to info@anniesbuyingclub.com and we'll get some information from you.
   

   If you are starting your own group, a minimum of 11 members would have to pick up with you in most locations, some locations the minimum is 14.  Your share is the 12th or 15th.  You get your produce at no charge for sorting, allowing members to pick up, and accepting and depositing payments, if any.
   

   Our site keeps track of payments, vacations, allergies, etc for each member as well as for the group if any quality issues or things don't arrive as expected.
   

   If we have a group in your area ready to go, we can just start you as a coordinator immediately.  If you have a group of at least 8 friends ready to start, we can probably start you giving you a couple weeks to hit the minimum.  We look foward to speaking with you.