The Evolving West End …

How has Forks evolved …or has it … should it …everything changes or does it stay the same …some people can’t wait to get out of here, some can’t wait to get back and some are happy wherever they are so …

Last week I was contacted by Marco Waldis, (his email initially went to the email junk folder) an Italian photographer working on a documentary project exploring the concept of the New West and the evolving idea of the American frontier. He shared he was interested in Forks as an example of a community that embodies aspects of both traditional and modern interpretations of the Western Frontier.

He was seeking my knowledge which was scary and also a compliment…

His email said he was exploring these themes

• The meaning of living in a modern Western community

• How the myth of the American Frontier continues to shape local identity

• The balance between tradition and progress in towns like Forks

• The unique challenges and opportunities faced by communities in more remote areas

“I’m interested in speaking with a diverse range of residents, from long-time locals to newcomers, and people involved in various industries and aspects of community life,” Marco shared.

So Marco and his friend Diana met with me at my office last week and since then have been meeting “Forks People”.

On Monday they visited with lifelong Forks resident John Anderson at his Beachcombing Museum and also met with more of a new-ish-comer Joe Wright who is active in HAM radio. Joe moved to Forks and became involved in many local groups and included his love of HAM to help in case of emergencies and disasters. Diana and Marco also plan to meet with Judge Hanify this week as well as others … I am hoping for a report back.

And I just went to Pacific Pizza to grab some soup and only knew one person in there …other than the staff …Now that is a change!

Christi Baron, Editor