Chamber’s Best of Awards set for April 15
Published 1:30 am Thursday, April 9, 2026
The Forks community is once again preparing to recognize outstanding local businesses, volunteers, and citizens through the annual Forks Chamber of Commerce Best of Awards.
The community is invited to come help honor the following nominees at the Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, April 15, at Blakeslee’s Bar and Grill, 1222 S. Forks Ave., 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Nominated for the Business of the Year category is Pacific Forest Management, recognized for its continued role in representing the timber industry in Forks. As the local representative for EFM, the company manages more than 68,000 acres on the Olympic Peninsula and serves as a liaison between the company and local residents, helping ensure continued recreational access. Pacific Forest Management also supports community efforts by donating space for the SIORF wreath fundraiser and providing matching donations to local nonprofits.
Also nominated for Business of the Year is Sasquatch The Legend, a retail shop that opened following the COVID-19 pandemic and helped bring renewed energy to the local business scene. The business has contributed to increased tourism and encouraged growth among other shops in the area. Manager Thomas Sewid has been active in the community and chamber efforts, working to promote Forks, its connection to Twilight, and its cultural ties to Washington’s Native American heritage.
Additional Business of the Year nominees include Root 101, owned by Kiley Nelson, which has created a welcoming downtown space for both locals and visitors, and LB Exteriors, where Erik Kaminskis is recognized for quality craftsmanship and contributions to the community.
In the Citizen of the Year category, Trent Thurman is being recognized for his extensive contributions to the community. Known for going above and beyond, Thurman has donated time, money, and expertise to projects such as repairs at the Community Center, including work on refrigeration and roofing. Through his company, he provides assistance with construction and troubleshooting at all hours, while also serving the community through organizations like the Forks Chamber of Commerce, where he has held roles as president and past president.
Also nominated for Citizen of the Year is Heather Cantua, whose work researching and submitting information on potential land use in the Sol Duc Valley has supported local residents and environmental efforts. She also volunteers on the board of the Pacific Coast Salmon Coalition, advocating for both community interests and natural resources.
The Volunteer of the Year category includes a number of individuals recognized for their dedication to service. Keith Weekes is noted for his significant impact on youth sports through his leadership with the West End Youth League, where he has served as president and contributed countless hours organizing and coaching. His efforts, along with his wife Jamie, have helped ensure that local youth have opportunities to participate in athletics.
Sue Shane is also nominated for her contributions to both healthcare and the arts. With a background in nursing, She continues to serve through her involvement with the hospital board, where she helps secure resources by supporting essential services, while playing a key role in the Rainforest Council for the Arts, where she supports local artists and organizes community events.
Other Volunteer of the Year nominees include Pat Soderland for overseeing food distribution to those in need; Shyliah Gorbett for her leadership with Friends of Forks Animals, including shelter work and fundraising; Jolene Price for her wide-ranging volunteer efforts with organizations such as the Elks Club, West End Thunder, and community events; Halie Fletcher for her long-standing involvement in youth volleyball as both a coach and commissioner; and Kathryn McInnis for her work supporting youth engagement and programming through library services.
The Chamber’s Cornerstone Award and Inez Halverson Community Service Award will also be presented.
Together, this year’s nominees reflect the strong spirit of service, leadership, and community pride that continues to define Forks.
