Denise Hoon was chosen as Dayton's 2020 Citizen of the Year.

Denise is a dedicated community volunteer who gives of her time to many local organizations including Skyline Juniors, Lions Club, Touchet Valley Golf Course, Dayton Historical Depot Society and the First Congregational Church. Denise is constantly and tirelessly volunteering her time cleaning and sprucing up the grounds at the church, depot and golf course. Her efforts help keep Dayton looking its best. She does all this while frequently traveling out of town to help with family. And although she’s retired from the Dayton School District, she spent 2020 working as a substitute teacher.

The 2020 Employee of the Year is Martha Lanman.

As Administrator of Columbia County Public Health and Garfield County Health District, Lanman has been instrumental in protecting our communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. She has worked to provide information, education and other needed materials to help keep citizens informed and safe. “Martha is without question, an incredibly bright, savvy, multi-tasker who willingly set aside her own down time and free time to focus on creating a positive outcome for our county and for our neighbors in Garfield County,” wrote one nominator. Martha is also a powerful advocate for community health, not just with COVID-19 but with ongoing education for youth and teens for prevention of smoking and drug use. In addition to her role as administrator for public health, she serves on multiple boards, including the Blue Mountain Station Coop Market, the Columbia County Community Network and the Friends of the Dayton Community Center/Pool.

Chief Spring's was selected as Business of the Year.

Ann and Mike Spring, owners of Chief Springs Brew Pub and Pizzeria, went above and beyond this year to serve the public. With all the COVID-19 regulations and a fire that destroyed their pizza ovens, they remain opened and employee many people. And they did it all with smiles on their faces. They expanded their patio with a vintage fire truck and propane heaters, provided masks for customers who didn’t have them and supported the few local events that could be held in 2020. Both Mike and Ann give back to community. Mike serves as a fire commissioner for Columbia County Fire District #3 and Ann is a member of the Dayton Development Task Force.