Police Department honors Bennett for her service

Published 7:00 am Friday, April 7, 2017

She’s worked for the city for more than two decades, but now it’s time for her to travel, spend time with family and try some new recipes; Ginger Bennett’s last day with the Picayune Police Department is Tuesday.
Currently serving as the Picayune Police Department’s executive secretary to Chief Bryan Dawsey, she is actually the department’s maternal figure, Dawsey said.
“She’s been a blessing. We’ve laughed together, cried together…. I couldn’t have asked for a better secretary,” Dawsey said. “She’s more than a secretary, she’s been a mom to the entire department.”
That sentiment was evident during her retirement party Thursday, which celebrated the 23 years she’s spent working for the city of Picayune. Every attendee of the event took a moment to tell Bennett how much she’d be missed, and that she will always be welcome at the department for a visit.
Bennett began her career with the city as a records clerk in 1993, before moving on to the duties of DUI coordinator and then safe communities coordinator. About six years ago she took over as the executive secretary for Dawsey. In her time at the department, she’s worked with three other police chiefs, Freddy Drennan, Brenda Smith and Jim Luke.
Prior to joining the city, Bennett said she worked in the school district for four years, which will count toward her state retirement.
Even though she will have extra time on her hands, she already has plans to occupy that time. Bennett said she intends to become more involved with her church, First Baptist Church of Picayune, try some new recipes, take a trip to Alaska, spend time with her children and grandchildren and also do some remodeling around the house. But leaving the police department is bittersweet. She said when she’s home the thought of being retired excites her, but when she’s at work she remembers all of the people she will miss, who dedicate their time and lives to the protection of the city.
“I really wish the people would support them more. It really is a thankless job,” Bennett said.
“Today we are celebrating my mom’s years of service as well as the beginning of something new. Our family is so proud of her and we are excited for this next chapter in her life,” said Bennett’s daughter Lisa Salcedo.

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