For the first time in close to 50 years a member of the orthodox Jewish community affirmed the oath of office as a member of the 72nd Baltimore City Council.

With thousands of citizens, family and friends, looking on, Isaac “Yitzy” Schleifer, raised his right hand affirming to represent the 5th District of Baltimore City.

The community is beaming with pride over Yitzy’s accomplishments and looks forward to creative initiatives and leadership during the many years ahead.

The city bid farewell this week to eight council members, who left with a combined 125 years of experience, and to former Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake. Mayor Catherine E. Pugh took office Tuesday.

New to the council are Zeke Cohen in the 1st District, Ryan Dorsey in the 3rd District, Isaac “Yitzy” Schleifer in the 5th District, Leon F. Pinkett III in the 7th District, Kristerfer Burnett in the 8th District, John T. Bullock in the 9th District, Robert Stokes Sr. in the 12th District and Shannon Sneed in the 13th District.

All are Democrats. Most are younger than the members they replace. Some have pledged to push a more progressive agenda than the council members they replaced.

(Source: Baltimore Jewish Life / Baltimore Sun)