Sixth Judicial District Awards were presented today to many employees, who as Iowa Supreme Court Justice David Wiggins said are the “faces of the court system.”
Most of these employees are the ones behind the scenes making the court system run smoothly and efficiently. They don’t get much recognition. They usually take the brunt of the someone’s worst day being in court or having to pay a ticket or fine of some kind. But today, they received much appreciated claps and hugs from co-workers and judges.
6th Judicial District court reporters with Chief Judge Patrick Grady. Photo provided by Kellee Cortez
The “Teamwork Award” went to a noteworthy group – the court reporters. They lost the most in the 2009 budget cuts and it has pulled them together and made them stronger.
Sarah Hyatt, a court reporter, said they communicate better and they all cover for one another. Each day brings changes in the schedule, so if one reporter finishes up early, she’s checking in the with others to give assist.
Judge Nancy Baumgartner said the reporters’ combined work experience is 465 years and each are professional, dedicated, flexible and just “work their butts off” for 21 different bosses/judges.
Other awards:
Service awards: 8 employees with the district for 30 years, 3 for 35 years, 5 for 25 years, 2 for 20 years and 7 for 10 years
Friend of the Court: Harvey DeSotel, Jones County Security Officer
Employee of the Year: Cynthia Forsyth, clerk of court for Benton and Iowa counties
Public Service Award: Della Riggins, retired district court administration
Distinguished Service Award: Kenneth Gard, clerk of court financial supervisor in Linn and Jones counties
