Spartan Stores 2009 Healthy Athlete of the Year was all Smiles at Autograph Signings

By: Chelsie Hardcastle

Amy Bliss smiled ear-to-ear as she signed autographs at two Spartan Store locations last week. At the 2009 State Summer Games, Amy was named the Spartan Stores Healthy Athlete of the Year for an exemplary effort toward wellness, including a balance of mind, body, and spirit, and initiative in leading other athletes to do the same. Amy’s photo appears on limited edition Spartan brand 24-pack bottled water. Her image is also part of the promotional material used in the Spartan Stores family of supermarkets, for the sale of paper medallions used to raise money for Special Olympics Michigan atheltes. 

Both, D&W Fresh Market in Lansing and VG’s Food Store in Fenton, welcomed Amy with open arms for her scheduled autograph signings, excited for members of the community to hear her story and get an autograph. Amy was thrilled the entire time, stating that the experience was both “excellent” and “perfect.” Amy proudly signed specially designed trading cards while sharing how her experience going to Curves and eating better has led her to a healthier lifestyle and the honor of being named Spartan Stores Healthy Athlete of the Year.

Amy Berry, Store Director for D&W Fresh Market in Williamston, was very excited for Amy’s appearance on Tuesday, May 18 at the store and the chance for customers to meet Amy. Berry has several connections to Special Olympics Michigan. Her store employs an athlete and a volunteer coach. In addition, Berry’s husband has done past volunteer work with athletes. Berry found it extremely rewarding helping Amy with the store autograph signing, and helping other athletes by raising funds through the sale of paper medallions at her store. The medallions cost one dollar and in exchange, customers receive $2.50 worth of merchandise coupons.  

Jessica Smith, Community Relations for VG’s grocery in Fenton, also found this experience to be very gratifying and wanted to do all she could to make Amy’s time at the store on Thursday a great one. Smith made regular announcements over the store’s PA-System and walked around telling customers about the autograph signing—making certain customers were aware of Amy’s presence. Of course, Amy showed a ton of gratitude towards these two women, giving each a big hug and thank-you for their time and efforts to make this a memorable event. 

Amy will have the honor on Thursday, June 3 at 6:30 p.m. of leading the Athlete Oath at the 2010 State Summer Games Opening Ceremonies. She will also be signing more autographs, with sports figures and pageant title holders from around the state, including Miss Michigan Nicole Blaszczyk, on Friday, June 4^th at 1:30 p.m. at Central Michigan University’s the Indoor Athletic Complex. When asked if Amy was excited for the 2010 Summer Games she excitedly responded, “Oh YES I am!” Amy has been a great representative for Spartan Stores Healthy Athlete of the Year and continues to inspire others with her healthy outlook and that unforgettable smile.  

Posted: 2010-05-26