PLEASANT GROVE -- Armenian immigrant Silva Peltekian is known for her enthusiastic customer service at the Pleasant Grove Macey's grocery store. Peltekian has gone so far as to bring a Middle Eastern product from home for a customer because the store didn't carry it.

Because of her commitment to customer service, Peltekian recently was recognized by her employer as outstanding employee of customer service with a celebration and free food.

Peltekian moved from her native country several years ago. Her first husband had died, she had two daughters and she wanted to move to the United States for more opportunities. She moved to California, where she met her husband, George. Two years ago, the couple decided to move to Utah because they thought it would be a safer environment. They ended up in Saratoga Springs. Her daughters, Tamar and Tailin, live in Canada and Syria.

Macey's deli isn't the first one she's worked at; Peltekian has worked in grocery store delis for the past 10 years and has worked at Macey's for two years. Customers have noticed her service, and have commented about her positive attitude and willingness to help.

"She has a sense of humor and is very willing to help anyone who needs it," said Terri Osborne, Peltekian's supervisor. "We can get a lot done when we work together because she is quick. She always greets the customer right away." Peltekian always makes sure to give her focus to one customer at a time, Osborne added.

Peltekian says the best thing about her job is "working with the people in customer service, when you serve them they become like friends." Because Peltekian understands that routine shopping can be a chore, she has made it a goal to reach out to all customers in need of assistance with a smile. She wants everyone who walks away from the deli to feel that they have received what they came for and more.