About Us
Xavian is a dedicated and OSHA-certified professional with a proven track record of success in various regulated industries. Through Xavian's diverse work experiences, he has acquired a strong management, compliance, and operations foundation, making him well-suited to excel in the cannabis retail industry's regulated environment.
Early in Xavian's career, he gained invaluable retail experience in his multiple roles. Xavian's retail experience will be an asset to Taste of Earth. Xavian's experience as a sous chef taught him how to organize and motivate a team under high-stress, time-sensitive conditions, a skill he will use as Taste of Earth's store manager. Xavian's time as a DNS security tech will also be invaluable at Taste of Earth, which will be outfitted with a state-of-the-art security system.
Kelsee's journey from her educational background in nursing and elinical social work to her extensive professional experiences has uniquely equipped her with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel as a store administrator for Taste of Earth, LLC.
Kelsee's educational foundation is solid, with a Master of Social Work (MSW) and a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from Widener University in Chester, Pennsylvania. Her academic achievements are impressive, boasting a perfect GPA of 4.0 for her Master's. She's been a member of prestigious honor societies, Phi Alpha and Phi Kappa Phi, further underlining her commitment to excellence. Kelsee will be continuing to pursue clinical social work, attending Widener University for a Doctorate in Psychology with a specialty in Neuropsychology and Psychodynamic Psychology, dual degree with Masters in Business and concentration in Administration
Kelsee is currently employed as a Licensed Therapist in Cape May.
Kelsee maintains compliance and follows guidelines set by the State of New Jersey, Aetna/CVS Health Corporation, United Healthcare, New Jersey Children's System of Care, and New Jersey PerformCare. Kelsee has experience with multiple levels of state compliance and community work will be illustrated through invaluable contribution to Taste of Earth LLC and The Borough of Buena.
Fred J. Jackson is the majority owner and managing member of Taste of Earth LLC. Fred Brings a wealth of real life experience to Taste of Earth. Fred’s military service, security experience, experience as a corrections officer, and his current occupation as the City of Millville's Code Enforcement Officer have given him the skills to manage Taste of Earth, LLC.
From 1980 to 1989, Fred was a member of the U.S. Marines, 2nd Marine Division as infantryman machine gunner. Fred served in combat in the Persian Gulf from 1987 to 1988, after which he was honorably discharged.
From 1989 through 2003, Fred served in the New Jersey National Guard is a Transportation Supervisor. Fred served in the 253rd Transportation Unit in Operation Desert Shield, Desert Storm from 1990-1991.
From 1989 to 2004, Fred also worked for the Department of Corrections as a Corrections officer in Bayside State Prison. As of 2016, Fred is the City of Millville's Code Enforcement officer. His duties in that capacity include inspecting rental properties for compliance with relevant codes and regulations.
In addition to his significant work experience, Fred also coached football in Millville, NJ for twenty (20) years where he led Millville High School to three state championships.
Blaise Menzoni, a south Jersey native, has combined his extensive financial knowledge and passion for cannabis as a partner at Taste of Earth, LLC. Menzoni has been passionate about cannabis for many years and when the opportunity to join Taste of Earth presented itself, he knew this was his next move. Known for his good judgment, decisiveness, and leadership, Menzoni brings a wealth of financial and operational experience to his new role, while being excited to bring innovation and growth in this rapidly evolving industry.
With two decades of experience in mortgage lending and real estate finance, Menzoni has honed his skills in financial management, regulatory compliance, and customer relations. He has been named a Scotsman guide top 1% originator in the country the last 10 years, most notably being recognized as the 73rd highest producing loan officer in the country for most units closed in 2023. Menzoni has helped over 8,000 families realize the dream of home ownership, closing over one billion dollars in loans. His unique ability to navigate complex financial landscapes and ensure compliance with stringent regulations, while still focusing on the customer experience has been instrumental in positioning Taste of Earth as a leader of the cannabis industry in New Jersey.
As a partner in Taste of Earth, Menzoni has harnessed his forward thinking approach and commitment to excellence to ensure that the company continues to thrive in an increasingly competitive market, delivering high-quality products and services while adhering to the highest standards of integrity and social responsibility. Whether you are a first time cannabis user or an everyday consumer, Menzoni wants to make sure Taste of Earth is your go to for retail cannabis.
