Forks Chamber of Commerce Celebrates Community Excellence at Annual Best of Awards

April 25, 2024 1:30 am
Pictured L-R Forks Chamber of Commerce President Trent Thurman, Forks Chamber Executive Director Lissy Andros, Business of the Year award winners Shane and Devennie Anderson owners of Evergreen 76/Subway, Volunteer of the Year recipient Jessica Sorenson, and special Halvy Award winners from Ginger’s Closet/Disaster Relief Sena Engeseth and Executive Director of Ginger’s Closet Layla Rawls. Not picture Citizen of the Year Susie Brandelius (DSHS/AAA/OLYMPIC) Photo Christi Baron
Pictured L-R Forks Chamber of Commerce President Trent Thurman, Forks Chamber Executive Director Lissy Andros, Business of the Year award winners Shane and Devennie Anderson owners of Evergreen 76/Subway, Volunteer of the Year recipient Jessica Sorenson, and special Halvy Award winners from Ginger’s Closet/Disaster Relief Sena Engeseth and Executive Director of Ginger’s Closet Layla Rawls. Not picture Citizen of the Year Susie Brandelius (DSHS/AAA/OLYMPIC) Photo Christi Baron

Last Wednesday, the Forks Chamber of Commerce held its Annual Best of Awards ceremony at Blakeslee’s Bar and Grill, drawing a large and enthusiastic crowd. Lissy Andros, the Executive Director of the Forks Chamber of Commerce, extended a warm welcome to attendees and expressed gratitude to chamber volunteers, staff, and board members for their invaluable contributions.

Andros emphasized the pivotal role played by volunteers in the success of non-profit operations in the Forks community. The Forks Chamber, Visitor Information Center, Logging & Mill Tour, and the Forever Twilight in Forks Festival owe much of their accomplishments to the dedication and talent of their volunteers.

Randy Mesenbrink and Richard Halverson were recognized for their efforts as log tour guides, hosting 107 individuals during the 2023 season. The Logging & Mill Tour, supported by sponsors like Dahlgren Logging, continues to thrive thanks to their commitment. Tours will begin again in May.

The Forever Twilight in Forks Festival, a monumental undertaking, was lauded for its year-round planning efforts by the dedicated Planning Committee. Andros commended the committee members who contribute their time, resources, and skills to make the festival a success.

In reflecting on the achievements of 2023, Andros highlighted record-breaking visitor numbers, with the Chamber’s Visitor Information Center welcoming 65,506 individuals. The Forever Twilight in Forks Collection also experienced significant growth, with 21,567 visitors to the gallery during the summer months.

Ginger’s Closet, formerly known as Forks Clothing Bank and Disaster Relief, received the prestigious Halvie Award for its exceptional service to the community. Layla Rawls and Sena Engeseth accepted the award on behalf of Ginger’s Closet. Ginger’s nomination letter acknowledged its vital role in supporting the Forks community as the non-profit continues to grow and make an impact.

The event honored Jessica Sorenson as the Volunteer of the Year for her exemplary service across various organizations, including the PTO, elementary and middle schools, the West End Youth League, and her church. Other nominees were Bruce Guckenberg, Jim Strong, Linda Keen, and Mike Leavitt.

Susie Brandelius was celebrated as the Citizen of the Year for her selflessness and dedication to supporting the senior population in Forks, along with her advocacy for grandparents raising grandchildren. Also nominated were Forks Police Chief Mike Rowley, Devennie Anderson, Donald Grafstrom, Jessica Sorensen, and Shannon Damron.

The Business of the Year award was bestowed upon Evergreen 76/Subway, recognizing their outstanding community service and ethical business practices. Other businesses recognized were Beaver Grocery Store, Bug & Buf’s Espresso, Forks Athletic & Aquatic, Ginger’s Closet, Kim’s Creations & Tulle Shed, Miller Tree Inn, Olympic Artforge, Sasquatch The Legend, and Westend Taproom Tip & Sip.

The Best of Awards ceremony served as a testament to the spirit of community and collaboration in Forks, highlighting the individuals and businesses dedicated to making Forks a better place for all.

Citizen of the Year Susie Brandelius was unable to attend the awards event. She is seen here with the Forks Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Lissy Andros, who caught up with her on Monday to present her award and flowers. Photo Christi Baron

Citizen of the Year Susie Brandelius was unable to attend the awards event. She is seen here with the Forks Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Lissy Andros, who caught up with her on Monday to present her award and flowers. Photo Christi Baron