FOREST GROVE, Ore. (Apr. 29, 2023) – The Rotary Club of Forest Grove and a number of its members were honored with awards presented by the Forest Grove/Cornelius Chamber of Commerce at its annual auction and awards gala on April 15.

The club was recognized with the Spirit of Forest Grove Award, which is presented to a service club, non-profit or business in recognition of their contributions to the community in the past year. The recipient’s dedication to the community and civic projects make Forest Grove and Cornelius a better place to live.

“The Rotary Club of Forest Grove serves our community in so many ways,” said the information provided in the club’s nomination, “including giving thousands of dollars in scholarships, road cleanup, maintaining the Rotary Garden (McDougall Garden), installing a bench for the bus stop, supporting Scouts BSA Troop 213 as well as numerous youth and sports groups.”

Rotarians Mark & Lisa Nakajima received the Lifetime Achievement Award on behalf of ACE Hardware. The award was presented to a business that consistently gives back to the community, year after year, has improved the community through its actions and motivates others to get involved. Mark has been a member of the Rotary Club of Forest Grove since 1990 while Lisa is a member of the Forest Grove Daybreak Rotary Club.

Rotarian Alma Lozano was honored as the Rising Star Award winner. A local relator, Alma has been a member of the Rotary Club of Forest Grove since 2016. The Rising Star Award recognizes an individual for their creativity, imagination and personal initiative in operating a successful business venture that has made a positive impact on the community.

The Small Business of the Year award went to Van Dyke Appliance, operated by Rotarians Pete and Parri Van Dyke and Andrew Van Dyke. The award recognizes a business that contributes to the economic growth and quality of Forest Grove and Cornelius and whose practices and professional conduct contribute to a sense of cooperation within the entire business community. Pete has been a member of the Rotary Club of Forest Grove since 1988. Parri has been a member since 2018 and Andrew joined the club in 2020.

The Recent Enhancement Project of the Year went to Brookwood Auto Group, operated by Rotarian Michael Cook, and Zesti Food Carts. The award honors new construction, building or outdoor area renovation or other capital improvement which improved the quality of life in Forest Grove and Cornelius. Michael joined the Rotary Club of Forest Grove in September 2022.

Wedge & Cured, owned and operated by Parri Van Dyke, was recognized as the New Business of the Year. The award is presented to a business that opened within the last three years and has become a true member of the community by supporting and bringing local organizations and the chamber together.

Congratulations to all of our honored Rotarians and thank you all members of our club who are helping to keep the Forest Grove/Cornelius Chamber of Commerce vibrant!