BAY MINETTE — Pam Thompson, secretary for Bay Minette Police Chief Michael Rowland, was honored for her service Dec. 21 by being named the Employee of the Quarter for October through December and Employee of the Year 2009.

Thompson has been with the department since May 2006. The awards came during a supper for employees and their families.

In addition to her duties as secretary to the police chief, Thompson helps organize many of the department’s activities and programs, including the Youth Police Academy, Citizens Police Academy and Christmas Cop.

She said she is honored by the recognition, but said it takes more than one person to make things work.

“It is a great honor to be named employee of the year. To know that your co-workers nominated you and they appreciate the efforts that you put into your position. To know that they are not only your co-workers but your friends," she said.

"We all work together to do good for the City of Bay Minette," she added.

Officer Rene Peebles, who has also been with the department since 2006, was recognized as Officer of the Month for December and Officer of the Year 2009.

Peebles said she was surprised by the honor but said she could not have earned it without her friends and coworkers.

"It was an honor to be chosen for such a prestigious award as Officer of the Year for 2009. I was speechless," she said.

"This could not have been possible without the assistance and support of my fellow officers and staff at the Bay Minette Police Department."

Continuing with the honors, Sgt. Joe Parker, who will retire Dec. 31, was presented a plaque recognizing his 25 years of service.

In keeping with tradition, the retiree was also presented his duty weapon and badge.