by Rachel Witkowski
Staff writer
The message for the Jacksonville City Council Installation ceremony was “The Talent Within,” and the talent really began to rise as Council members humored the audience Thursday night with personal moments and jokes.
“Now repeat after me,” said U.S. District Judge Timothy Corrigan to his cousin, Michael Corrigan, as he was being sworn in. “I, Michael Corrigan Jr., proud of all the Irish blood that’s in me ...”
The audience burst into laughter as Judge Corrigan backtracked to his formal oath. Council President Corrigan and Vice President Daniel Davis were eventually sworn into office and both promised to be strong leaders for the community and gave thanks to their family, friends and the rest of Council.
“On earth, there are very few people who resemble angelic beings. My sister, Lisa, is one of them. My brothers on the other hand, we’re not so angelic,” said Davis, who then recalled being crammed into closets and used as a dart board by his brothers. “Thanks to them, I can take on just about everything thrown at me now.”
Fourth Judicial Circuit Court Judge Donald Moran performed Davis’ oath and then Brenda Kelly, executive assistant to Council member Gwen Yates, sang a jazz medley to continue with the talent theme before Corrigan was sworn in.
Corrigan stressed the importance of mentorship, which will be among his primary topics as Council president. He said he also wants to focus on issues such as the mayor’s budget, consolidated government and updating the zoning codes.
“This year, it’s time to finish what we started,” said Corrigan. “It’s going to take the talent within each and every one of us to make this city, our city, a great place to live.”