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News-Sun photo by CHRISTOPHER TUFFLEY Vickie Flowers was celebrated for 31 years of outstanding service to the city of Avon Park Monday night. She retires Friday.

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published: Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Vickie Flowers retires from Avon Park after 31 years

By CHRISTOPHER TUFFLEY

christopher.tuffley@newssun.com

AVON PARK -- Friday, from 4 to 7 p.m., the city of Avon Park is throwing a farewell party for Vickie Flowers, who is retiring from the city after 31 years of service.

A proclamation in her honor was read by city manager Julian Deleon at Monday night's regular city council meeting.

Flowers began to work for the city on May 26, 1981. She started out as an accounting clerk and is retiring as senior customer account specialist.

Gladys Ortiz, the city's utility billing supervisor, choked up when she spoke about Flowers.

Ortiz said that Flowers has a sign hanging in her work station that says, "Every job is a portrayal of the person who did it. Autograph your work with excellence." Ortiz fought back tears. "That's her philosophy," she said.

Turning to Flowers, she added, "As you move on to the next amazing chapter of your life, know that you will be missed. Our very best wishes go with you. This is not a goodbye, but a farewell."

Holding a large bouquet of colorful flowers, Vickie Flowers replied, "It's been an honor and a privilege to serve the people of Avon Park. Thank you so much."

Receiving loud and sustained applause, she added to laughter that she looked forward to seeing everyone around town and in Walmart.

The public is welcome to Flowers' farewell party, which will be held in the city council chambers.