The Community Foundation has announced it will award two lifetime achievement awards at its 75th Anniversary Dinner on May 9th at the Blue Water Convention Center in Port Huron. Don Fletcher and Marty Weiss, who between them have more than 75 years of community leadership experience, are the two recipients of the 2019 Distinguished Service Award. “We’re excited to recognize two outstanding community leaders,” said Mike Cansfield, Chair of the Board at the Community Foundation. “This prestigious award is rarely given out and goes to an individual who has not only supported and provided leadership to the Foundation, but has made significant contributions to the revitalization and overall economic growth of this region.” The DSA was first awarded in the late sixties, honoring four individuals: Louis A. Weil, founder of the Times Herald; Fred L. Riggin Sr., President of Mueller Brass; Edgar W. Kiefer, President of Port Huron Sulphite & Paper Co.; and local philanthropist Henry G. McMorran. Since then, this award has only been given when an individual exhibits the extraordinary characteristics and achievement worthy of this honor. Among past recipients are F. Granger Weil, son of Louis and former editor and publisher of the Times Herald; John F. Wismer owner of Radio First; along with Howard Acheson and his son Jim Acheson. Don Fletcher is best known as the retired President and CEO of Port Huron Hospital. He started with the Foundation as an Advisory Trustee in 1999 and has continued as a valuable member to this day, including his time as Board Chair from 2010-2013. Outside of the Foundation, Don offered his time and leadership to various local boards and professional organizations including: United Way Campaign Chair in 1999, elected Chair of the Michigan Health & Hospital Association in 2000, and as the first Co-Chair of Blue Meets Green. Marty Weiss, our own Foundation historian, began his adventures with the Foundation back in 1964 when he became an Advisory Trustee. He continued to serve as trustee and on numerous committees and initiatives until his retirement in 2013. He served more than 50 years on the SC4 Foundation board as well. Mr. Weiss provided leadership as a local business owner in downtown Port Huron and served as President of Downtown Port Huron, Inc. in 1974. Also that year, he received the notable recognition of “Outstanding Young Man of the Year” by the Port Huron Jaycees. The Community Foundation of St. Clair County is the oldest and largest foundation in Michigan’s Thumb Region. On May 9th it will celebrate its 75th Anniversary. Event and ticket information is available on the Foundation’s website at: Stclairfoundation.org
