What's Happening in Springfield, MA…

A naturalization ceremony was recently held at American International College in Springfield where 250 residents of Massachusetts officially became citizens of the United States.

Banner printing can be used for occasions like this to inform the community of such a special event.

There were 67 countries represented in the new group of citizens, with countries ranging from the People’s Republic of China and Croatia, to Ethiopia and Estonia. They all embraced their new country, expressing humility and gratitude.

Many of the new citizens are from the western part of Massachusetts in the Springfield area.

The oath was administered by United States District Court Judge Mastroianni. Although the 250 residents are now United States citizens, Mastroianni encouraged them to keep their ties with the country and culture from where they were born.

Many of them wore clothing that symbolized the culture and country of their birth, yet each proudly held an American flag as they took their oath to pledge their loyalty to the United States, as many millions have done before them.

Comments from the new citizens were positive. Balis Kuru, who was born in Turkey, came to the United States 14 years ago and becoming a citizen has always been a dream. Paul McDermott of England added that this day had also been “a long time in the making.”