The Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Dave & Susan Thompson, former owners of Dave’s Bar & Grill, have been named the 2021 Harry E. Nelson Citizen of the Year.
Each year, past recipients of the award gather to research and select the next Citizen of the Year. Nominees’ achievements must demonstrate one or more of the following:
- Improve the free and competitive enterprise system of business by creating a greater appreciation of the value of the commitment of oneself to the business interests of the Greater Spokane Valley.
- Enhance business and community growth and development by promoting civic, social, and cultural programs designed to improve the functional and aesthetic values of the community.
- Design economic programs that strengthen and expand the income potential of the commerce arena.
The committee’s decision to award the Thompson’s was concentrated in their history of giving to the community. Impressive was not only the amount they have given but the way they supported.
“They have sprinkled so much support and time around the greater Spokane Valley over the years while never asking for a thing in return,” stated Barry Baker, President/CEO of Baker Construction & Development Inc. and past Citizen of the Year in 2020.
Peggy Doering, Executive Director for Valleyfest and past Citizen of the Year in 2009 added, “As mainstay business owners here in the Spokane Valley, the Thompson’s support of youth activities and civic engagement has been unprecedented in both its focus and generosity.”
Susan Thompson said, “We simply feel honored to even be considered. We have been blessed with what we have, and we try to go about life with a focus on being kind to others.” Dave Thompson added, “I have always been drawn to help those who may never ask for assistance. I have always enjoyed just being the guy in the back of the room who gets things done. This is very humbling.”
In addition to the Citizen of the Year, the Business Awards will be honoring organizations that excel in business innovation, create inspiring workplaces, and lead through community stewardship, as well as awarding the Educators of the Year, and Legacy of Leadership. The 2022 Business Awards will be presented on Friday, April 22nd, at Mirabeau Park Hotel.
The 2022 Business Awards is made possible with the support of the following businesses: BECU, Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel, Idaho Central Credit Union, Modern Electric Water Co., MultiCare Valley Hospital, Sir Speedy Printing, and Spokane International Airport.
The Greater Spokane Valley Chamber of Commerce is the catalyst for building relationships, driving collaboration, and championing opportunity in the Greater Spokane Valley. The Chamber is a nonprofit 501(c)(6) organization. For more information, visit spokanevalleychamber.org.
