By Mike Dunn

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — It was an emotional day today in Philadelphia City Council, with farewells to six longtime members who are retiring.

Retiring City Council president Anna Verna got a standing ovation.  She is one of six outgoing councilmembers honored during their final meeting today.

Joining in the praise was Mayor Michael Nutter, himself a former councilmember.

(Mayor Nutter kisses the cheek of City Council president Anna Verna after handing her a gift. City of Phila TV)

“The six members who are leaving this great, great body: we will miss you.  I’ve enjoyed working with all of you,” the mayor said.

The others leaving are Donna Miller, Joan Krajewski, Frank Rizzo, Jack Kelly, and Frank DiCicco.  Their terms end on January 2nd.

Verna, the first female Council president ever, left with a warning to future politicians about putting the job over family:

“Sometimes, as I look back, I wonder if that’s a very good thing to do.”

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(Councilwoman Verna shares a humorous moment with Darrell Clarke, left, who will replace her as City Council president next year. Photo from City of Phila. TV)

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Nutter handed out gifts to the six, which DiCicco joked were enlarged copies of their DROP lump sum pension payouts (see related story).