The Forks Chamber of Commerce held its 19th Annual Best of Awards luncheon on Wednesday, Feb. 12, at Blakeslee’s Bar and Grill in Forks.

The noon meeting drew a large crowd of nominees as well as Chamber members.

Long-time community member, Glenn King was awarded the volunteer of the year award. King was recognized for his many years volunteering at the Forks Food Bank, the Forks Elks Lodge and his ongoing support of area veterans.

The 2019 citizen of the year award went to Washington State Patrol Trooper Allen Nelson. Nelson had suffered a stroke some months ago and a tremendous outpouring of admiration and support was shown by the community since then. In addition to his respected professional career, Nelson was also recognized for his work with the Masons providing meals to veterans at Thanksgiving and his help in providing WSP donations to the annual Quillayute Valley Scholarship Auction. Nelson was unable to attend as he is still recovering from his illness, but sent a message of thanks.

Concerned Citizens was chosen to receive the Business of the Year award, with Robin Schostak accepting on behalf of the 40-year-old business. Concerned Citizens was recognized for their many years of operation as well as providing many job opportunities for the community and providing much-needed services to a variety of people in many settings.

The Inez Halverson Award, which is bestowed on a local entity that makes a difference, was awarded to The Forks Police Department and Chief Mike Rowley. Rowley was also a nominee for citizen of the year. The chief works with youth sports activities and this past New Years’ Eve organized a “Sober Bar” giving a venue for those that wanted to celebrate in an “alcohol-free” atmosphere.

A special Cornerstone Award was given to Sully’s Drive-In and accepted by Bruce Guckenberg. Sully’s is the longest operating family-owned business in the community and they were also nominated for the Business of the year. Sully’s held a fundraiser for Trooper Nelson last November to assist him and his family during his recovery. They donated a portion of their sales for one day, almost $3,700 was gifted to the Nelson family.