Four San Diego City Council members were sworn into office today — two for the first time. I was there with my cameras capturing the festivities.

Mayor Jerry Sanders’ seat awaits him on stage. The mayor later spoke of the challenges ahead for both himself and the incoming council members. Photo: Sam Hodgson

David Alvarez is sworn into office, replacing Ben Hueso, who missed the ceremony to be sworn in to the state Assembly. Photo: Sam Hodgson

City Councilman Tony Young, whose colleagues selected him today as council president, places his hand on the Bible as he’s sworn in. Photo: Sam Hodgson

Alvarez’ wife Xochiti watched over the couple’s daughter, Izel, while the inauguration ceremony got underway. Photo: Sam Hodgson

Councilman Kevin Faulconer’s press secretary Tony Manolatos waits backstage while the Marine Corps Honor Guard packs up its flags. Photo: Sam Hodgson

City Councilwoman Donna Frye delivers a parting speech in her last moments on the job. She referenced many of the various dustups and issues she’s found herself on the minority side of over the years. Photo: Sam Hodgson

Frye leaves the stage after serving 9 1/2 years on the council. She received a standing ovation after her speech, which touched on the highs and lows of serving in public office. Photo: Sam Hodgson

Incoming City Councilwoman Lorie Zapf surveys the audience at the inauguration. Photo: Sam Hodgson

Zapf joked to the audience when city staff brought out a box for her to stand on. Her speech touched on her vision for her district and her upbringing, which she described as challenging. Photo: Sam Hodgson

Council members say the pledge of allegiance before the ceremony. Photo: Sam Hodgson

Seen through a group of flags, Councilman Tony Young delivers a speech. He was lauded later in the day by colleagues who chose him as the new council president. Photo: Sam Hodgson

Faulconer and Frye share a moment on stage. Photo: Sam Hodgson

A witness attests to Alvarez’ signature on his formal oath of office. Photo: Sam Hodgson

Alvarez cuts the cake celebrating his inauguration. Photo: Sam Hodgson

Please contact Sam Hodgson directly at sam.hodgson@voiceofsandiego.org or 619.550.5664 and follow him on Twitter: twitter.com/samuelhodgson.

Sam Hodgson

Sam Hodgson is a freelance photojournalist and contributor to Voice of San Diego. You can contact him at samhodgsonphoto@gmail.com...

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