Photo was taken before the coronavirus pandemic.

This self-described free spirit serves beverages with a side of positivity.

“Making someone’s day brighter is literally my job — that and making drinks,” said Lead Beverage Server Russell Gordon, #1573, Tallahassee, Florida. “I get to talk to customers, have fun and joke around all day.”

Russell began working for Publix at #265, Orlando, Florida. After a couple of years, he moved to attend Tallahassee Community College and Florida State University, both in Tallahassee, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in chemistry — and met his wife of 19 years. According to Russell, both he and his wife are known for being outgoing and animated.

“We bring big energy to the room,” he said.

And that positive energy is why Russell was the first Publix associate hired to open the first new-concept Publix GreenWise Market in 2018. His vibrant personality set the tone for the POURS experience zone, a place for customers to purchase a beverage to sip while shopping. In the past 3 years, he has traveled to almost every new Publix GreenWise Market to train associates prior to the stores’ opening.

Russell was drawn to the health-conscious focus of Publix GreenWise Market because it matches his active lifestyle. He also loves the store atmosphere and relationships with fellow associates.

“Publix GreenWise Market has just a really cool vibe,” he said. “And like every store, we’re Publix family.”

During his career with Publix, Russell spent time gaining experience in meat and grocery before moving to POURS.

“I just try to be the best I can — to be that role-model associate at whatever I do,” he said. “I’ve been with Publix for 21 years, and I want to do 19 more.”