Organizers will celebrate the evolution of the Tacoma Food Co-op from 4-9 p.m. Sat., July 19, at People’s Park, South 9th & Martin Luther King Jr. Way. Efforts for creating a food cooperative in Tacoma began in the fall of 2006 with a meeting of just 12 people. There is now a mailing list of more than 600 people, and the Tacoma Food Co-op was officially incorporated June 26.

The July 19 event is your chance to learn about progress the Tacoma Food Co-op has made; discover what’s next for the co-op; find out how to become a member; mingle with local farmers, musicians, restaurants, businesses and community organizations who share a common goal of providing healthy, affordable and fresh food for the residents of Tacoma.

Confirmed speakers include Tacoma poet laureate Willian Kupinse and community activist Julio Quan.

Restaurants and farmers slated to showcase their wares include Herban Cafe, Woody’s on the Water, Bombay Bistro, Quickie Too and others.

For more information, call (253) 272-8819, ext. 109, or e-mail tacomafoodcoop@gmail.com.