After attending Western Culinary Institute in Portland and working in the restaurant industry for a number of years, Jaret wanted a more direct connection to the healthy, seasonal produce he loves, “It started in New York City, walking through the Greenmarket each day on my way to work. The ingredients would jump out at me. I finally just stopped and asked if they were hiring.” Even though he enjoyed working at the Greenmarket for a year, Jaret prefers the lively atmosphere at Portland Farmers Market and the way it creates a real social event. “It’s a destination. People linger at the Market here, talking about the Farm Bill, organic certification - not just about the great produce they’re buying.” Hallie Mittleman knows the everyday operation of the Markets will flow seamlessly with Jaret’s oversight. “I’m confident in Jaret’s professional rapport with our vendors and his understanding of the market community,” she says. In July, Hallie will leave Portland to begin graduate school on the East Coast as a Fels Scholar at the University of Pennsylvania pursuing a master’s degree in public affairs. She plans to continue her work in food systems and sustainable agriculture. “I’ve been so proud of the energy from the collective whole of the Market. If I’ve been able to help make some of our farms viable businesses by creating a market atmosphere where they can thrive, I know it’s one of the most meaningful things I will have done in my life.” She would also like to acknowledge PFM Executive Director Dianne Stefani-Ruff’s leadership, which “has been such an inspiration to me and to all of Portland’s food community.”