Ten honored for commitment to community service efforts
Published 1:30 am Thursday, May 14, 2026
PORT ANGELES — Two new awards debuted at this year’s Clallam County Community Service Awards ceremony Wednesday evening at the Port Angeles Senior & Community Center.
The first Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to 99-year-old Jerrie Tiderman, recognized for decades of community involvement, support of the arts and helping raise more than $150,000 for the Port Angeles Food Bank. “When we all grow up, we want to be just like Jerrie Tiderman,” said Cherie Kidd of Soroptimist International of Port Angeles-Noon Club. Tiderman said receiving the award was “shocking” and added, “I’m just so thrilled.”
The annual awards, presented by Peninsula Daily News, Soroptimist International of Port Angeles-Noon Club and the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Olympic Peninsula, honor residents who have made significant contributions to the community. Regional publisher Eran Kennedy said this year saw the highest number of nominations in a decade.
A new youth category honored Brayden Baritelle, Emma Rhodes and McHenry Miller for extensive volunteer service, leadership and academic achievement.
Adult community service awards went to Ed Bedford, founder of Bedford’s Sodas; Carla and Dave Sue for decades of volunteer work through Kiwanis and other organizations; and Frances Howell for her leadership with the Port Angeles Food Bank and Volunteer Hospice of Clallam County.
Peninsula Daily News Editor Brian McLean presented an award to Sekiu residents Dr. Nancy Messmer and Roy Morris.
“Roy and Nancy represent the gold standard,” McLean said. “Their shared vision is rooted in profound respect of the natural world.”
Messmer and Morris are “champions of environmental education” who are founding and active members of CoastSavers. Messmer is a member of the Clallam County Heritage Foundation, and both have been involved with the Lions Club in Clallam Bay/Sekiu.
“Service demonstrates a deep heart for their neighbors,” McLean said.
Morris said the room was full of great people and that he and Messmer were proud to be there.
“Since we were young people, we have believed if you put your shoulder to the wheel and get working, you can improve the world,” Messmer said.
