Community

15th annual Rotary Star Awards honor community spirit

The three Gig Harbor Rotary Clubs came together at Canterwood Golf Club on Feb. 7 to celebrate outstanding individuals whose actions embody the spirit of “Service Above Self” at the 15th Annual Rotary Star Awards event. This beloved gathering welcomed members of the public to join in honoring three remarkable residents — Betty Lilienthal, Monica Wulff, and Dr. Ann Bowers — who have shown exceptional dedication to enhancing the lives of those around them.

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Proceeds from ticket sales, raffle and dessert dash will directly support charities chosen by each honoree. It was not just an awards ceremony; it was a heartfelt tribute to the commitment and contributions of individuals who inspire others through their service.

Honorees and Rotarians during the Rotary Star Awards on Feb. 7. Photo courtesy Lonna Calas

Honorees

Betty Lilienthal

Recognized by the Rotary Club of Gig Harbor, Lilienthal consistently exhibits an unwavering commitment to advocating for seniors. Her efforts increased the available resources for the senior community, particularly during and after the COVID pandemic. Betty’s advocacy work underscored her belief that every individual deserved care and support, regardless of age. She selected Olympic Civic Services as her charity, a fitting choice that resonated with her mission to uplift and assist seniors.

Monica Wulff

Chosen by the Midday Rotary of Gig Harbor, Wulff is a driving force behind the Food Backpacks 4 Kids initiative. With over 5,000 volunteer hours since 2019, her role as the Volunteer Director of Operations proved pivotal in addressing childhood hunger, especially during the pandemic school closures. Her deep-seated passion for ensuring that no child goes hungry transforms lives and brings the community closer together in support of its youth. She chose Food Backpacks 4 Kids as her charity, reflecting her dedication to fighting childhood food insecurity.

Dr. Ann Bowers

The Gig Harbor North Rotary Club honored Bowers, who has made significant contributions through her work with the Kitsap County Chapter of Washington Explorer Search and Rescue and as an Emergency Room physician at St. Anthony’s Hospital. Dr. Bowers was celebrated for her exemplary medical expertise and her recognition by the Wilderness Medical Society, achieving the prestigious Triple Crown in Diving & Scuba Medicine and Mountain Medicine — a rare feat accomplished by only six individuals worldwide.

Her chosen charity, the Kitsap County Chapter of Explorer Search and Rescue, highlighted her commitment to community safety and emergency preparedness.

The Star Awards Event not only honored the honorees for their individual achievements but also served to inspire others within the community to engage in philanthropic activities and volunteerism. The funds raised through ticket sales empowered the chosen charities to continue their vital work, ensuring that the impacts of these initiatives could grow and reach more individuals in need.

The Gig Harbor Rotary Clubs joined in celebrating these wonderful citizens who showed the community that through dedication and service, positive change is possible. The night was filled with stories of inspiration, heartfelt remarks, and an incredible opportunity to foster community spirit. Together, the clubs celebrated and uplifted those who make substantial differences in their community!