Member Meeting 2026: A Year of Challenge and Meaningful Support from Members

To start the night, Members enjoyed delicious snacks, courtesy of our Prepared Foods team. There were a variety of sandwiches including meat, veggie, vegan and gluten-free options, side dishes like tofu and potato salads as well as an assortment of beverages and desserts.

After an hour of mingling, Members entered the Main Street Landing’s Film House for the presentation starting with remarks from City Market’s General Manager John Tashiro and Board President Sam Werbel.

Board Candidate Introductions

After initial remarks, Members had the chance to meet the 8 (7 new and 1 Incumbent) candidates that have applied to join City Market’s Board of Directors. This year’s Board candidates in the running include Ertan Barucic, Gina Stevenson, Lydia Kaprelian, Michelle Jcobson, Patrick Brown, Shawna Snyder and Taylor Gorycki, and Incumbent John Tanis. Board elections voting is open October 1 – 21, and shortly thereafter new board Members will be announced.

Community Service Award Winner Announced

This year’s Community Service Award winner in honor of Don Schramm was announced with enthusiasm. This award recognizes an individual for their outstanding contribution to our community. Earlier this summer, City Market Board members reviewed 9 worthy nominations submitted by community members and ultimately selected Thom Fleury who founded and has managed, as a volunteer, the North End Food Pantry every weekend morning for the last 10 years.

Thom is a selfless, extraordinary leader who has dedicated countless hours to helping others. The North End Food Pantry offers a place where people can come when their finances are down prevents them from going hungry, providing necessities like diapers, wipes, menstrual products and clothing, so families don’t have to compromise their wellbeing or dignity.

City Market Updates from Leadership

John Tashiro, City Market’s general manager, and Sam Werbel, chair of City Market’s Board of Directors, both shared updates from the last fiscal year starting in July 2025 and ending in June 2026. John highlighted City Market’s successes and challenges from Fiscal year 2026. John and Sam updated Members on the status of our past fiscal year’s financials, membership growth and many other topics that City Market staff took part in. All this information can be seen in the video below.