it stands for recreational equipment inc., has a unique model, co-op with 5.5 million members. jerry stritzke, thanks for joining us today. >> thank you. >> let's talk about your cooperative model, it's different from most retailers, explain how it works. >> as a cooperative we're owned by our members. as a member owned organization we kind of define success differently. we take a long term perspective and really run our business to meet our membership objectives and for us that's predominantly about delivering a compelling outdoor experience. >> in terms of being a cooperative, i can become a member if i just pay $20. what does that get me? >> it really gives you a lifetime membership in the co-op. the important part of that you become part of a community that's focused on the outdoors. you know, in terms of participating in the co-op, an amazing location for gear. the profits go back to the membership. this year we gave 75% of the profits back to co-op members as a dividend. if you love the outdoors getting money back to buy more gear is amazing. >> the way it works, not ever

most recently as president and ceo of rei, recreational equipment inc., and she joined rei as chief operating2000 and was named ceo in 2005. during her tenure rei nearly tripled its business revenues to $2 billion. and was consistently ranked as one of the 100 best companies to work for in "fortune" magazine. secretary jewelle as we know, has become a great partner in the national league of cities in our agreement with the department of the interior, to further a program to connect kids with nature. which she has made her special mission, i think, as secretary. please join me in giving a very warm welcome to secretary sally jewell. [ applause ] >> well, hi, everybody. are you awake? okay. because -- yeah long enough after lunch, we should be fine. well, thank you for that kind introduction, ralph. and i just had a nice visit with chris coleman. you've got strong past and current leadership. it is a pleasure to be here with all of you today. and i just want to start by thanking you all for your public service. whether you're a mayor, or a city council member or commissioner or whatever they ca