Tarkio Hy-Vee Meat Manager Jim Navin’s picture is now on the side of a food truck, along with other recipients of the 2024 Legendary Customer Service Award. (Submitted photo)

Whether it’s answering questions about the best seasoning for a cut of meat or talking grilling techniques, Tarkio Hy-Vee meat manager Jim Navin always seems to have the answer. His helpful smile behind the meat counter and devotion to helping his customers earned him Hy-Vee’s Legendary Customer Service Award.

And now, Jim is among several recipients of that award who are being featured in pictures on semi-trucks delivering food to stores across the company’s nine-state footprint. The cherished tradition returned this summer after a several-year hiatus.

Navin’s Hy-Vee career started in 2005 at the Shenandoah, Iowa, store, and he moved to the Tarkio store in 2008. Known for manning the grill at the local high school’s concession stand, at church functions or block parties, Navin has become a pillar of his community.

Tarkio Hy-Vee will unveil the truck featuring Jim and other employees in the near future. The public is invited to attend the unveiling and to enjoy a photo op and complimentary snacks.