SHOALS — Steve Deckard, publisher of the Shoals News and a fixture of the Martin County community, was honored as the Philanthropist of the Year at the Annual Martin County Community Foundation Dinner held last night at the Community Center.
Deckard’s award recognizes decades of dedicated service, including his role as a founding board member of the Foundation Board 26 years ago. He has served on a variety of local boards for over six decades, making significant contributions to the betterment of Martin County.
During his acceptance speech, Deckard offered remarks about the foundation, though the full quote was not immediately available.
Foundation Tops $1 Million in Contributions
The evening also served as a send-off for Executive Director Curt Johnson, who is retiring this year. While presiding over his final dinner, Johnson announced a significant milestone for the organization: this year, the Foundation will surpass $1 million in total contributions given back to Martin County.
Johnson recounted the lifelong friendships he has made and the profound impact the Foundation has had under his tenure.
The nearly 150 people in attendance heard about a fantastic year of giving, with funds supporting a wide array of crucial local projects, including:
- Major improvements at the Shoals Park, Little League, and the Loogootee Little League.
- Grants to volunteer fire departments.
- Enhancements to the West Boggs Beach House.
- Improvements at the Shoals Overlook Park and the construction of pickleball courts.
- Distribution of local scholarships.
