Gig Harbor Rotary Clubs Honor Star Citizens

The three Rotary Clubs of Gig Harbor awarded the annual Star of the Year Awards on Friday, Feb. 8, at Canterwood Golf & Country Club. 

Rotary Club of Gig Harbor - Citizen of the Year went to Jean-Louis Gazabat for his work with gifts for foster children.

Rotary Club of Gig Harbor Midday - Business Person of the Year went to Sue Braaten for her work with Court Appointed Special Advocates "CASA", foster children and Purdy Women.

Rotary Club of Gig Harbor North - Service Above Self award went to Marla Morgan for her program Hands on Arts.

Sue Braaten is the Owner/Operator at Best Western Wesley Inn & Suites of Gig Harbor and a very active volunteer.

She is a long time Court Appointed Special Advocates "CASA" volunteer where she is appointed by judges to advocate in court for foster children. After acting for 20 years as a “voice in the court” for foster children, and after adopting a child of our own through the system, she has come to understand the real need that exists for a place like the Homestead for these very special and deserving kids. 

To make this happen Sue is working on her dream at the Homestead at Alder Cove. The dream is to protect the dignity, the innocence, and the futures of the thousands of children in the State of Washington foster care system. Her message was "one child at a time". 

Sue is also the lead support of the Steppin’ Up Women’s Conference. Steppin Up’ is a fun and informative event held at The Best Western Wesley Inn & Suites in Gig Harbor. Its mission is to educate, and empower women.

This women’s conference offers community and connection, information and inspiration, motivation and momentum. Women come together to network, share stories, and make new friends, while learning how to be healthier and happier in mind, body, and spirit. In addition, Sue is part of the Purdy Women, a group that supports the women inmates at the prison as they reenter the community.

Thank you Julie for nominating an excellent Business Person of the Year who clearly demonstrates the Rotary motto "Service above Self".

Shown with the three winners are the three club presidents. The award dinner included excellent videos about the winners. Each winner was also awarded a Paul Harris Fellow award.