Woo-hoo! Manzo's back! He looks like a leprechaun!

Ward 6 Councillor Frank Manzo has been welcomed back to the City Council chambers tonight, returning after a lengthy illness.

The Warhorse of Ward 6 came spiffily attired in a green velour bowtie.

"You don't have to be Irish to celebrate St Patrick's Day," he told his many well-wishers. "I've come here dressed as a leprechaun because I hope it will bring me some luck toward my recovery."

Manzo said he needs the support and thoughts of Sault Ste. Marie people to help speed and secure his full recovery.

He also said sitting at home gave him cabin fever.

So he had to come in tonight.

"I don't know how long I can stay but will stay as long as I can," said Manzo. "I am happy and glad to be with you."

But Manzo says he hasn't been idle, even while immobilized by complications of diabetes that have left stubborn abscesses on his right leg.

"I've taken 6,191 calls from all six wards while I was off sick," Manzo said. "I do not mind it at all because I talked to thousands of people." The Ward 6 councillors also said he's had 145 contacts with City departments to help solve problems and address concerns raised by callers.

"Soon I will be like the mayor of Vancouver, attending effectively to City business from a wheel chair," he said. "I cannot walk and need to be wheeled in but it is improving."

Manzo said he's still under care of doctors and awaiting more tests in Toronto. "I hope to be back on the floor working as soon as possible," he said. "I thank you for all your calls, visits, prayers and thoughts."

Ward 3 Councillor Pat Mick isn't at tonight's meeting because she's scheduled for surgery later this week.