Piney Point resident recognized by Progressive Grocer

Kristal Howard, a Piney Point resident, is named a Rising Star by Progressive Grocer for her work as Kroger Southwest's public relations manager.

Kroger Southwest Public Relations Manager Kristal Howard has been named a Rising Star by Progressive Grocer, the industry's leading publication.

Howard was honored at the Corporate Social Responsibility Awards on Thursday, Nov. 8 in Chicago.

She was chosen for the publicity she gained for the company's community programs and marketing initiatives in Texas and Louisiana in 2011, according to a press release. Howard also helped with the company's social media engagement strategy, including the Eat Up, Tweet Up initiative, which helped to drive up sales and raise awareness of  the children's hospital fundraiser.

Howard's division also hosted an Honoring Our Heroes celebration on the 10th anniversary of Sept. 11. Emergency personnel and active military were honored at division stores for their daily service and efforts to protect the community.

Another initiative Howard was involved with was Bringing Hope to the Table, which is a hunger relief program that raised $225,000 for regional food banks.

Howard is also a youth mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters and is involved with the Public Relations Society of America, International Association of Business Communicators and Ragan Communications.

Howard was one of 41 Kroger associates honored at this year.