2018 Oath of Office Ceremony Draws Hundreds to Orange County Convention Center

From Orange County News

Hundreds of Central Floridians attended the historic Oath of Office ceremony for Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings, who was sworn in by Chief Judge Frederick J. Lauten of the Ninth Judicial Circuit Court on Dec. 4, 2018, and District 2 Commissioner Christine Moore, who represents Apopka.

District 2 Orange County Commissioner Christine Moore

“I am elated for the opportunity to continue my public service as Orange County Mayor after serving as the elected Sheriff for a decade. The future holds great opportunities for us to build on Orange County’s thriving and robust economy,” Mayor Demings said. “My primary focus will be on smart growth, sustaining livable neighborhoods, public safety, business development, education and forming partnerships with a regional emphasis. Our priority is to make Orange County the best community for our residents, businesses and guests.”

With record-breaking attendance, the ceremony at the Orange County Convention Center was attended by more than 1,400 residents and watched by many more online. Orange County also welcomed District 2 Commissioner Moore, District 3 Commissioner Mayra Uribe and District 4 Commissioner Maribel Gomez Cordero, who were all sworn in for their first terms on Tuesday morning. Commissioner Victoria P. Siplin will serve District 6 for another term.

Commissioner Moore, who was sworn in by Senior Pastor Paula White of New Destiny Christian Center, will serve District 2, the northwest part of the County which includes Apopka, Ocoee, Pine Hills, Orlando, Zellwood, and Lockhart.

“This is the beginning of a new journey of servant leadership for me. We must address the issues which constituents expressed to me the most – traffic, an inadequate transportation network, pedestrian safety, protecting a strong economy, and ensuring high paying jobs as the foundation of a healthy community,” Commissioner Moore said. “Finally, my folks are extremely concerned about the septic regulations, in conjunction with, protecting our lakes, springs, and water.”

Fred Kittinger, Senior Associate Vice President, Government Relations for the University of Central Florida, served as the ceremony’s emcee. The talented Jones High School Master Singers provided the pre-ceremony music and 11-year-old violinist Leah Flynn performed “Happy” by Pharrell Williams.

The National Anthem was sung by Allison Cento and the Invocation was provided by Terence R. Gray, I – Senior Pastor at Saint Mark AME Church. The Presentation of Colors was offered by Orange County Sheriff’s Office Honor Guard, the Orange County Fire Rescue Honor Guard and Orange County Corrections’ Honor Guard. The Pledge of Allegiance was provided by Vionn Welcome of Boy Scouts of America Troop 642.