After five city managers and 30 years, JoDene Houser decided to disconnect the time clock and face life at a different pace.

Friday, January 8, was Houser's last day as Human Resources director and Administrative Assistant to the City Manager.

Friday morning was spent with a surprise reception with friends, family and co-workers past and present taking a moment to wish her a happy retirement.

She came to the City after working at Social Services for six years.

“When I first applied, my mom and dad didn't want me to go,” she said Friday.

She said they were concerned about high turnover,...