POUGHKEEPSIE – Longtime Dutchess County employee Melody “Mel” Newton, a fixture near the County Office Building on Market Street, was honored by her union as well as county officials for her extraordinary service to county government and anyone who arrives on Market Street in need of assistance. On Monday, CSEA Dutchess County Unit 6650 President Andrew Calamari presented Ms. Newton with the union’s inaugural “Doug Morrison Person of the Year” award for her exemplary customer service representing Dutchess County.
The award, according to Calamari, is presented to the CSEA Dutchess County Unit 6650 member who most exemplifies Doug’s characteristics; the member who consistently has a positive attitude and outlook for the future, and is considered selfless and caring is the basis for the honor. Union members in good standing nominate their choice in November of the previous year and the honor is bestowed at the union’s holiday party in December. With Ms. Newton’s “celebrity” status on Market Street, the union and county officials also decided to make a second presentation for the public to enjoy.
For years Newton, a 30-year county employee, has been recognized as the vivacious parking booth attendant at the county building parking lot on Market Street. As the pandemic arrived, Newton was moved into the lobby of 22 Market Street and has become the official greeter and information provider for people entering the building.
In addition to the union accolades, Newton, who is not a fan of being the center of attention, was also honored by Dutchess County Clerk Brad Kendall and County Executive William O’Neil. The county executive declared January 23, 2023, as “Melody Newton Day” in Dutchess County as recognition for her decades of service to the county and for spreading her special brand of “sunshine” to all who pass through the County Office Building.
“I can’t think of a better person that represents all of Doug’s attributes,” said Calamari. “Melody is a dedicated, selfless, caring person that brightens everyone’s day who enters the county office building.”
