Musselman answered the call to help Greene County

MUSSELMAN HONORED: Amos Musselman of Newberry (center) was surprised to receive a plaque in recognition of his service on the Greene County Public Defender Board. The presentation was made by Greene Superior Court Judge Dena Martin (left) and Greene Circuit Court Judge Erik Allen (right) during a Thursday morning reception in Musselman's honor at the courthouse. Musselman was appointed to the board when it was established in 1999 and is stepping down after 10 years of service. (Photo by Anna Rochelle) [Order this photo]

A little over 10 years ago, Amos Musselman helped start something new in Greene County that has brought over three-quarters of a million dollars into the county.

When the Greene County Public Defender Board, composed of three citizens, was established on Nov. 1, 1999, Musselman was appointed to the board by then-Superior Court Judge David Holt.

Public Defender Alan Baughman said the Public Defender Board serves as the administrator of the county's Public Defender program.

Musselman has served on the board since its inception but recently announced his decision to step down.

"He's indicated he'd like to give someone else the opportunity to serve," said Baughman.

On Thursday, the county's judges, public defenders, prosecutors, court officials and several other county officials invited Musselman to an early morning reception in the county commissioner's room at the courthouse, complete with doughnuts, fresh fruit and coffee, to express their gratitude for his service.

Besides breakfast and conversation, Musselman was surprised to receive a plaque presented by Superior Court Judge Dena Martin and Circuit Court Judge Erik Allen.

"We want to honor and thank Amos Musselman for his service and dedication," said Martin.

Under the guidance and direction of the board members, Martin said an amount in excess of $750,000 has come into the county during the board's 10-year existence.

Baughman said the money came from the state in the form of reimbursements, available only to programs administered by a board.

"Because of the work of this board, $750,000 in savings has come back into the county, but the board members don't get paid. There's no compensation for this and people willing to do this for the benefit of the county need to be recognized," said Baughman. "Amos has been committed since the beginning. He's come out to attend meetings, even in bad weather, and he's never even asked for mileage."

When praised for his service, Musselman said simply, "I like to give a little back." Judge Allen said we should all be grateful.

"Amos has been an outstanding servant. He's been willing to share his time," said Allen. "In Greene County, we're very fortunate to be blessed with many people who make a commitment like this to serve their community. It's significant."

Musselman said it had been a privilege to serve with Baughman and he wanted to thank Judge Holt for appointing him when the county first established the board.

"At that time, there weren't too many guidelines," said Musselman, "but we got it set up."