2020 Downtown First Awards Winners Are Announced

Last Updated 4/16/2020 • In Business Features

The Rock Springs Main Street/Urban Renewal Agency (URA) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2020 Downtown First Awards. The Downtown First Awards recognize businesses, organizations, and individuals who put Downtown first through their commitments of time, advocacy, and resources. The community was invited to nominate businesses, organizations, and individuals deserving of recognition. An independent selection committee then reviewed all of the nominations, selecting one winner in each category. There were over 60 total nominations so narrowing in on one winner per category was no easy task. Due to Covid 19 restrictions, winners were announced via a Facebook Live event. The awards were custom created by local glass artist Susie Von Ahrens. Winners include:

Better Rock Springs Beautification Award – Shipley Holdings

Better Rock Springs Beautification Award – Shipley Holdings This award is presented to a business or property owner within the Downtown Rock Springs focus area that has made improvements to his/her property or who has otherwise contributed to the beautification of Downtown Rock Springs. Shipley Holdings updated their apartments at the corner of Bridger and Elk Streets, really enhancing the entrance to Downtown Rock Springs.

Outstanding Volunteer - Jana Pastor

Outstanding Volunteer – Jana Pastor This award is presented to an individual or group whose volunteerism within the Downtown Rock Springs focus area enhances the downtown experience. Jana has been an active volunteer for the Rock Springs Main Street/URA and Broadway Theater since their inception. Over the past year she’s also worked tirelessly on the Children’s Discover Center, housed at the Rock Springs Library. The Children’s Discover Center was born from an idea by Jana and is coming to fruition because of her dedication. She’s found funding, sponsors and volunteers to make the project happen and it should open this summer.

Outstanding Individuals – Sean Valentine (Western Wyoming Beverages)

Outstanding Individuals – Sean Valentine (Western Wyoming Beverages) (within a Company or Organization) This award is presented to an individual who, as a representative of his/her company or organization, serves to enhance the Downtown experience. Sean (and Western Wyoming Beverages) are great partners in our community and Downtown Rock Springs.

Spirit of Downtown Award – Steve Leish

Spirit of Downtown Award – Steve Leish This award is presented to a business, organization or individual who exemplifies Downtown in their actions. Steve works for Dominion Energy where he has coordinated several volunteer projects Downtown including the repainting and updating of the historic caboose located along South Main Street and the installation and landscaping of the Downtown Putt Around miniature golf course. Steve has also contributed to the Rock Springs Main Street/URA financially as well as via his employer.

Outstanding New Business/Merchant – Uinta Bank

Outstanding New Business/Merchant – Uinta Bank (301 2nd Street) (opened in 2019) This award is presented to a business or merchant located within the Downtown Rock Springs focus area that has opened or relocated to the district in 2019.

Outstanding Downtown Business – A Touch of Class Floral

Outstanding Downtown Business – A Touch of Class Floral (421 Broadway Street) This award is presented to a business located within the Downtown Rock Springs focus area.