After a remote version last year, the Forks Chamber of Commerce will celebrate the Best of 2021 nominees and recipients in person this year at Blakeslee’s Bar and Grill, 1222 S. Forks Avenue at Noon on May 4, 2022. Forks Chamber of Commerce “BEST OF” awards recognize the efforts of those who make our community a better place through their endeavors.
And the Nominees are …
Citizen of the Year
Diana Reaume – As QVSD Superintendent she has done an amazingly difficult job during COVID.
Jerry Leppell – Leader of the scholarship auction, and as a business leader always willing to help. Always as supporter of the 4th of July celebration
Christi Baron – She is always there to make sure things keep going: 4th of July, West End Business, Historical Society, Christmas celebration, and especially under difficult times of ever-changing newspaper production; not to mention COVID.
Bill Peach – Bill works tirelessly for the West End; reaching out to those that needed help during COVID. He spends hours traveling, attending meetings to keep our voice heard in the continuing battle for the timber industry. As we in the future will see our Commissioner voted on countywide we need to appreciate what we have had in Bill’s representation and acknowledge him.
Volunteer
of the Year
Jessica Sorensen – She embodies everything an organization could hope for in a volunteer. Jessica works hard to support students and families at Forks Elementary; PTO President, organizes Walk-a-Thon, and helps schedule special guest assemblies like the Reptile Man, and so much more! Her creative ideas and vision have made a huge impact on FES.
Andrew Pursley – Andy is paid to be the Head Pastor at Forks Assembly of God; however he goes above and beyond the job description. Tragedies big to small he is ready to bear the burden, be a shoulder to EMS, and he volunteers at the hospital. He dedicates countless hours to bringing comfort to the lost. 2021 was drenched in sorrow his kind face and sure voice will remain in our memories. Our community is richer due to his dedication and commitment.
Scott and Nellie Baysinger – These two have supported West End Youth League for many years; coaching, board member, and the annual Christmas tree sale. A business owner that always helps when asked. They are moving away and this is the last chance to acknowledge their impact on our community.
William Plumley – Bill is always volunteering when needed. He does fundraising for organizations and causes. He assists families with resources and is a longtime foster parent. Bill is open-minded and kind to everyone.
Karen Clark – Karen has been a member and volunteer with Friends of Forks Animals for many years. Even as she recently faced health problems she continued to pick up pet food donations for needy pets and continued to drive animals to rescue so they could have a better life. She keeps track of pets at the Forks Shelter. What would local pets in need do without her?
Business of the Year
West End Tap Room – Glenda and John are wonderful, inclusive hosts. Their establishment is always clean and they are knowledgable about the products they serve. It is my favorite place to go with my friends and dog on a rainy day after a hike. The covered, heated patio is a great little oasis in our town …grateful for this little gem in our community.
Decker City Hardware – Decker’s has quickly become one of my favorite places on the West End. The employees are knowledgable, kind, and ready to help. Dean and crew go above and beyond to fill holes and meet the needs of citizens during the supply chain shortage. Dean is ready to host a raffle, donate to a cause and convey information. Decker’s is 100% behind tourism and will help meet the needs of hikers, sasquatch hunters, and twilight fans. Everyone is welcome in the store and everyone is greeted with a smile.
Olympic Art Forge – Vern and his new business has filled the void left by the closing of Olympic Graphic Arts.
Keller William Realty/Rachel Breed – Rachel has opened a new business on Main Street – she has remodeled the building and made it look great, and she has also hired new employees.
Sasquatch the Legend – I nominate Ken and Laurie Hamilton and their new business Sasquatch the Legend. They have really put Forks on the map for people to journey to. The mural designs on their building really add to the community.
Miller Tree Inn – I was surprised to see that Miller Tree Inn has not won this award in the past …as the business changed hands last year I would like to include previous owners Bill and Susan Brager as well as new owners Trent and Mary Beth Thurman. Acknowledging the Brager’s time in business and Bill’s time on city council and Susan’s time with Chamber and as the MTI has portrayed the Cullen House. Trent and Mary Beth have taken over and added new events and are making the business their own. Also, the Thurmans have been quick to join in and volunteer in the community.
The community is welcome to attend the Best of Award Luncheon at noon, May 4, 2022, at Blakeslee’s. The lunch special will be spaghetti with meatballs, salad, and garlic bread for $12.99.
