May 4, 2004
CHICAGO, IL — May 4, 2004 — The Food Marketing Institute (FMI) announced and recognized the Grand Prize winners of the 2004 Store Manager Superior Service Awards last night at a formal dinner here during the 2004 FMI Show.

The winners, their companies and stores locations: Denny Glick, Hy-Vee, Inc., Perry, IA; Rick Jaeger, Stater Brothers Market, Big Bear Lake, CA; Kasimir Pawliszyn, Raley’s Family of Fine Stores, Gardnerville, NV; and Ramiro Aguirre, Moore Street Market, New York, NY.

“FMI is pleased to honor these outstanding individuals for their commitment and loyalty,” said FMI President and CEO Tim Hammonds. “They are truly great community servants.”

Store managers were asked to submit innovative stories describing how they have excelled in customer or community service. The contest was open to managers of food retail, mass merchandise and convenience outlets worldwide. Entrants must have been employed at the same store for at least one year.

A six-member panel of judges — including representatives from Hallmark Cards, the awards sponsor — evaluated the entries on the originality, creativity and significance of the customer or community service effort. The winners received an engraved plaque and a $1,000 check.

Glick was recognized for leading a fundraising drive for a new track at the community high school, and for building a 100-foot-long sundae for nearly 1,000 students as part of the town’s annual Super Sundae Celebration.

Jaeger helped to evacuate the town of Bear Lake when wildfires raged in the nearby San Bernardino Mountains last October. He opened his store to firefighters, law enforcement and other emergency personnel, allowing them to gather the supplies they needed. Since the evacuation forced the cancellation of Halloween celebrations, he later helped the community and children celebrate the event by donating pumpkins and, with vendors, candy.

Pawliszyn was recognized for organizing a group of employees to help local flood victims, including animals. He is a major organizer and supporter of community organizations, including the Family Support Council, Food for Families, Partners in Education and the Holiday Angel Tree.

Aguirre was awarded for providing a family haven from gang violence, for keeping kids off the street and for helping to revitalize the local economy by encouraging other businesses to locate around his store.

For information about the 2005 Store Manager Superior Service Awards competition, please contact Gretchen Plessman at 202-220-0809 or gplessman@fmi.org.