Ravensdale Couple receives King County MLK Medal of Distinguished Service

March 21, 2016

Summary

The couple contributed over 2,000 hours of public service to create the Ravensdale History Trail, a walking trail commemorating the natural history and heritage of the area.

Story

In memory of the selfless leadership of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Metropolitan King County Council Vice Chair Reagan Dunn today presented the inaugural MLK Medal of Distinguished service to Donna and Michael Brathovde of the community of Ravensdale. The couple contributed over 2,000 hours of public service to create the Ravensdale History Trail, a walking trail commemorating the natural history and heritage of the area.

“Donna and Michael’s vision, research, and creation of the Ravensdale History Trail serve as examples to us all of what it looks like to be dedicated to a community,” said Dunn, who represents Ravensdale on the County Council. “I am pleased that this medal will be awarded to such inspiring people.”

“We are pleased to have played a part in researching and documenting the incredible, and tragic, history of Ravensdale,” said Michael Brathovde. “And we hope this project will serve as a lasting legacy to the people and events of the past while giving today’s residents of King County and the Ravensdale community a deeper appreciation and understanding of our history.”

“We are honored that Councilmember Dunn chose to nominate this project for the MLK Distinguished Service Award,” said Donna Brathovde. “Through this project, and the efforts of many people, the history of Ravensdale will be preserved for generations to come. It has been exciting and gratifying to play a key role in making this project a reality.”

For 39 years Michael and Donna Brathovde have been residents of Ravensdale, living, working, and raising their three children. In 2014, Michael began researching for the project. Together he and Donna worked to capture the complete history of the area they love. Their service has brought the past alive for all who visit and will preserve the heritage of the area for years to come.

The Metropolitan King County Council presented a distinct honor upon 12 citizens living across King County to those whose contributions to their community echo the incredible selfless leadership of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The volunteers are the recipients of the inaugural MLK Medal of Distinguished Service, an accolade recognizing those who have gone above and beyond in their efforts to make a difference in communities across King County.

Today’s recipients were selected by the Councilmembers in each respective district. The MLK Medal of Distinguished Service will be presented once a year to thank those who made a particularly strong impact on the county and encourage others to renew their dedication to serve their community.