Page 11 - FreshDigest Spr.24

Brandon Dare Sales and Procurement Legacy Farms Anaheim, CA Background: I was born and raised in Sebring, OH, a small town about an hour south of Cleveland, and currently live in Orange, CA. I moved to California in 2021 just after finishing my undergraduate degree in Business Management from the University of Mount Union. I began working with Legacy Farms in 2022 as an operations coordinator, primarily focused on material handling and quality control. I was introduced to the produce industry at an early age visiting the warehouse with my father, who worked as a warehouse manager for multiple companies in the Los Angeles area. FPFC Connection: I learned about the FPFC when I started working with Legacy Farms and signed up for the newsletter. I soon began attending the luncheons in SoCal along with other events such as TopGolf and the Dinner Dance. I heard about the Apprentice Program through multiple colleagues who said I should look deeper into it. I’ve always jumped at opportunities to collaborate with other leaders and this program will be just that. Fun Fact: Outside of work I have a passion for travel and the outdoors. I try to adventure to a new place at least once a year and have a goal of visiting all 63 National Parks. My most recent adventure was at the beginning of April this year when I visited and hiked in all five of Utah’s national parks. Diego Tena Produce Quality Control Superior Grocers Santa Fe Springs, CA Background: I was born in the city of Santa Ana, CA, however I was raised in Anaheim. After graduating from high school, I enrolled in college for one month but eventually dropped out. I quickly realized that college was not for me. I started my very first full-time job working for Superior Grocers in 2010, not knowing that this was going to be the starting point of my career. I began pushing carts as my first position in the company; two years later, I was offered a promotion as a produce manager. I was still so eager to learn and grow within the company, that I eventually was recognized and promoted as a produce specialist. I am currently working in the distribution center as produce quality control and assisting the produce buying team. Up until today, my goal is to keep ascending the corporate ladder. I have been with the Superior Grocers family for 14 years. My passion continues to grow towards the produce industry every day. FPFC Connection: In the winter of 2023, my supervisor, Jon Holder, introduced me to the FPFC Apprentice Program. He encouraged me to sign up to expand my skills in networking and to gain more knowledge on the produce and floral industry. I am fortunate to also have Alfonso Cano, the director of produce, as my leader. He gave me some feedback and motivation to join the program. I have never attended any events connected to this program, but I am anxious to know what is in store for me. I applied for this program because I want to develop my skills in leadership, logistics and networking in the floral and produce industry. Fun Fact: I am the first-born generation Mexican American from my family of six siblings. On my free time, I enjoy spending quality time with my family: daughter, son and wife. I enjoy the simplest things in life, like exploring different parks and hiking trails with my family. I cherish spending time with my son since we both have similar interests, like playing video games and watching anime. I also enjoy watching sports like basketball and soccer. I am a huge Lakers, Barcelona and Guadalajara Fan. 11