Honoring SFS Hall of Fame Employees

The Hall of Fame employees at SFS are a group of exceptional individuals who have dedicated over 30 years to this organization, embodying loyalty, resilience, and a deep commitment to their work. Each one has witnessed and contributed to the company’s evolution, playing a pivotal role in shaping its success and culture. 

Beth Zeshonski, 36 Years of Service

What year did you start working here and what was your initial role?

I started in 1988 as an Accounting Clerk. My responsibilities included balancing driver bags and payments, mailing payments, research and keying credits, among other things.

 

How has your role evolved over the years?

As the years went by, I learned all aspects of the accounting department, including new tasks like processing ACH payments for customers, processing credit card payments, and aspects of working with the bank. I learned a lot from hands on experience and fellow co-workers who were willing to share their knowledge. I was young and eager to learn, and it paid off!

 

Can you share a memorable moment or milestone from your early days with SFS?

I was at our very first food show at Montage Mountain. It was three days long! The theme was “It’s a jungle out there!” We had stuffed jungle animals at every booth and actors were hired to play Tarzan and Jane. I’ve been at every show since. Some other themes were the Olympics, a Western, and Sports Memorabilia.

 Personally, achieving my wish of getting my own office with a window was a milestone for me!

 

What do you enjoy most about working here?

The people and the way it’s always a new adventure! It keeps my mind sharp.

 

How has the company changed since you’ve started?

I was hired at the cash & carry when Schiff’s took over Scranton Foods. I then moved to an office space in Dunmore before we settled in our main warehouse here in Taylor. Over the years, we’ve continued to grow.

 

What’s something surprising that not many people know about you?

In 1995, while caroling with my church, my daughter and I were in an elevator accident when it fell 5 floors.

 

What advice would you give new employees just starting their journey?

Don’t stress out over the daily routines. Take advice from experienced team members. Keep away from the drama!

 

How do you stay motivated and engaged after 30+ years?

The ever-changing challenges of the foodservice industry & working with our customers and sales team all keep me motivated.

 

What are some of your hobbies/interests outside of work?

I’m active in my church as the treasurer, and with my grandson- attending all his sporting events. His favorite is baseball!

 

Is there anyone you’d like to acknowledge for their support during your career?

Elaine Witiak, our former accounting manager/controller, who encouraged me to apply for the credit manager position and Mike Yeager for giving me the chance to prove myself. Also, John Husosky, former EVP, who taught me to be assertive when dealing with challenging situations.

 

Are there any traditions or memorable SFS events that stand out to you?

 We used to do an Easter Egg hunt for kids. If it was too cold or rainy outside, we’d do it in the warehouse. The warehouse crew would find plastic eggs for months afterwards. Before family fun day, we also used to do a “frolic” event, a year-end party where everyone would dress up. Those were always memorable.  The many food shows!

 Working through the pandemic together and coming out the other side was definitely memorable.