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Merkel, judge honored by PIE Coalition
Described by associates as compassionate, dedicated leaders, a pair of tireless workers for the youth of Putnam County were honored by the P.I.E. Coalition.
Bestowing annual awards during a dinner at Autumn Glen, P.I.E. board member Renee Marsteller honored a pair of individuals who best support the coalition's efforts for alcohol, tobacco and drug prevention, intervention and education.
The Outstanding Criminal Justice Award was bestowed upon Circuit Court Judge Matt Headley, while the Outstanding Civic Award went to Putnam County Youth Development Commission Director Linda Merkel.
Since his days as prosecutor, Headley has been a supporter of the P.I.E. Coalition. He volunteers to speak to the youth of the county at the monthly P.I.E. breakfast.
His efforts presiding over juvenile court also fall into line with the P.I.E. mission.
A number of associates and employees shared their thoughts on Headley with Marsteller prior to the presentation.
"Judge Headley has dedicated many years of his life to the prevention, intervention, and education of not only the youth of Putnam County, but to every individual and this makes Putnam County a safer place to live," Jim Hardwick said.
"He seems to operate by the golden rule -- treat others as you wish to be treated," Sheila Penturf said. "His type is definitely difficult to come by."
A choked up Marsteller, who works with Headley as the juvenile probation officer, finished her presentation by saying a few words of her own about the judge.
"His dedication to the Youth of Putnam County is outstanding and he has truly made a difference in many people's lives," Marsteller said. "He continues to be positive to support to all. I am honored to not only call him my boss but to also call him my friend."
For her tireless work as PCYDC director, Merkel was also honored.
"She is a driving force to us all," Marsteller said. "She is hard working; she has passion for everything she touches. She always has a smile on her face and willing to lend a helping when needed. She has compassion like no other. She has a very strong will and she is very hard to say no to. Her dedication to the youth of Putnam County has truly been a blessing to us all."
Through efforts like National Night Out, Coats for Kids and Dancing with the Stars, Merkel brings energy that seems to power those around her.
"The PCYDC director's position is more than a job to Linda Merkel. It is a passion," Carol Emery said. "Linda does whatever it takes to make a program or venture work, and be successful. She works long hours beyond the requirements of her job.
"Putnam County is fortunate to have this leader in the community. Her energy, optimism and positive attitude are contagious for those who work with her. To put it simply, Linda Merkel gives her all to whatever she commits herself to doing."
Marsteller concurred with this assessment.
"It is such an honor to know and work with her every day," Marsteller said. "She is one very impressive lady and we all love her."
In addition to Headley and Merkel, the dinner also honored several Putnam County elementary students for their Red Ribbon Week essays. Fourth- and fifth-graders were asked to write on the subject "Love Yourself: Be Drug Free."
Fourth-grade winners included first place, Rayan Deaton of Fillmore Elementary School; second place, Caroline Gooch of Tzouanakis Intermediate School; and third place, Jaden O'Neal of Fillmore.
Fifth-grade winners were first place, Faith Phillips; second place, Ahnyka Pryce; and third place, Baxton Duncan, all of Tzouanakis.