During its July 17, 2019 meeting, the Department of Social Services Advisory Board welcomed a new board member and commended a retiring Currituck DSS employee for a long and excellent career.

Donald Ray Etheridge, Jr., was sworn in as a member of the Social Services Advisory Board. Ray Matusko, Clerk of Superior Court, administered the oath of office to Etheridge, who now joins current board members Margarette Etheridge (Chair), David Doll, Dorothy Johnson, and Mary Etheridge.

The board then recognized Patty Halstead, who is retiring at the end of July after serving with Currituck Social Services for 18 years.  Halstead oversees the intake process at DSS and has helped many families and clients find appropriate resources in times of need. During the meeting, DSS Director Samantha Hurd and Matusko each praised Halstead for her service to citizens in Currituck County.

“She is the gatekeeper of all the reports that come into the agency,” Hurd said. “Patty really believes in helping people and she does everything in her power to do that.” Hurd presented Halstead with a framed letter of congratulations that was signed by other DSS employees.

Matusko acknowledged the difficulties and stress often faced by social workers, and said, “Patty possesses many qualities necessary to do this job, such as empathy, compassion, and dedication.”

Congratulations to both Etheridge and Halstead!

1st photo, L-R:  Margarette Etheridge, DSS Board Chair; Donald Ray Etheridge, Jr.; Samantha Hurd; and Ray Matusko.

2nd photo:  Patty Halstead (L) receives a framed letter of recognition from DSS Director Samantha Hurd.