Rock Springs Main Street/URA announces 2022 Downtown First Award recipients

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The Rock Springs Main Street/Urban Renewal Agency (URA) is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2022 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 nominated 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 80 total nominations so narrowing it to one winner per category was no easy task. The stunning awards were custom created by local artist Kaye Tyler. 

Winners include:

• Outstanding Downtown Business –  Casa Chavez Mexican Restaurant (744 Pilot Butte)

This award is presented to a business located within the Downtown Rock Springs focus area. Casa Chavez has been in business for decades. It’s multi-generational and multi-lingual and a favorite spot for margaritas and Mexican food.

• Spirit of Downtown Award – Mack and Company Boutique (623 Pilot Butte)

This award is presented to a business, organization, or individual who exemplifies Downtown in their actions. Mack and Company started out as Busy Bee and has grown and expanded. It’s become a Downtown destination and icon. They carry a wonderful variety of local and handmade products.

• Outstanding New Business/Merchant - Art of Integrative Medicine; Wellness/Dr. Chad Franks

This award is presented to a business or merchant located within the Downtown Rock Springs focus area that opened or relocated to the district in 2021. We’re excited to have Dr. Franks and his new clinic in Downtown. Dr. Frank has a wonderful reputation for kind, compassionate care and the clinic is a wonderful addition.

• Better Rock Springs Beautification Award – Kneeland Fine Art/Andrew Kneeland (203 D Street)

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. Andrew opened Kneeland Fine Art at the corner of D and Broadway last year and has transformed the corner. His space is beautiful both inside and out.

• Outstanding Individual – Justin Spicer – Edward Jones Investments (548 Broadway Street)

This award is presented to an individual who, as a representative of his/her company or organization, serves to enhance the downtown experience. Justin is a quiet, behind the scenes type of supporter of Downtown Rock Springs. He sponsors the Brown Bag Concert Series and is a routine donor to the Broadway Theater. He doesn’t do things in a big, flashy way but is a constant presence and wonderful downtown friend and business.

• Outstanding Volunteer – Liz Strannigan

This award is presented to an individual or group whose volunteerism within the Downtown Rock Springs focus area enhances the downtown experience. Liz Strannigan has been a downtown volunteer since the inception of the URA. Before that, she volunteered on numerous other committees. Liz also volunteers at the Rock Springs Historical Museum, Broadway Bargains, PEO, her church and many, many other programs. Originally posted by Downtown Rock Springs via Locable