The recipient of this week's Ben's Bell is barista Mike "Max" Martin.
He was nominated by Jenny Carrillo, a customer at the East River Road coffee shop where Martin works.
"Max goes out of his way to make customers at his Starbucks location feel truly special," Carrillo wrote in her nomination.
"Even while he is busy taking orders and whipping up specialty coffee drinks, he strikes up conversations, pays compliments, asks thought-provoking questions like, 'Got anything you want to brag about today?' and then really listens to your answer," Carrillo said.
Carrillo said Martin goes beyond standard counter service. He recommends new menu items, moves tables and chairs to accommodate customers and often delivers their food and drinks to their tables.
"He seems to know all the regulars' names. He makes me smile," Carrillo said.
The project
Ben's Bells promote kindness and community. Each week a person who betters Tucson is "belled." Go to www.bensbells.org/BellingForm to submit a name. Go to www.bensbells.org or call 628-2829 for information. Recipients also are featured on Friday's "Morning Blend" on KGUN 9.
Contact reporter Kimberly Matas at kmatas@azstarnet.com or at 573-4191.
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