Our talented associates work hard to win, whether at the store with our customers or at competitive events.
Building dreams one grain of sand at a time
Upon moving to Florida four years ago, Assistant Bakery Manager Mike Bradley, #763, Clermont, Florida, started participating in sand sculpture contests. Last year, after winning three different competitions, he was invited to represent the U.S. at the 2017 Taiwan World Sand Sculpting Championship in the Fulong International Sand Sculpture Art Festival. He was among 22 sculptors from 14 countries who participated in the event.
At the competition, Mike was teamed with Canadian master-sculptor David Billings, who designed the three-headed dragon they created as part of a display piece. It took them 128 hours and more than eight days to complete. In the individual category, Mike had only 24 hours over a three-day period to create a sand castle for the competition. Although he did not place in the event, it was a great accomplishment to represent the U.S. abroad.
Mike plans to participate at the Blue Water SandFest in Port Huron, Michigan, and compete again at the Fort Myers Beach Annual American Sand Sculpting Championship in November.
Servant leadership has no limits
Cashier Hailee Kurtz, #361, Sarasota, Florida, has enjoyed working at Publix for more than one year. Publix was her first choice for a job because she had friends who worked here too.
Hailee has cerebral palsy and is confined to a wheelchair. When she starts her shift, she always has a line full of customers who love to see and talk to her every day. After getting to know her, customers can’t help but be captivated by her smile and enthusiasm.
Hailee is a student at Sarasota Suncoast Technical College. In her free time, she rides horses — something she is very passionate about and has done since she was 18 months old. Her love for her work inspires everyone she comes in contact with. Hailee has been a ray of sunshine for everyone at #361, and they feel blessed to have her.
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