New U.S. citizens to be honored in Elgin ceremony

Are you a new U.S. citizen or do you know someone who is? If so, then you are invited to attend Elgin's 20th annual New Citizen Recognition Ceremony at 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 27, at the Centre of Elgin as part of the regular city council meeting.

Participants at this short program will be provided with an individualized certificate suitable for framing and will be personally congratulated on their achievement by Elgin Mayor Dave Kaptain, Elgin City Council members, and other dignitaries.

During the ceremony one honoree will speak briefly about what it means to be a new citizen, followed by a musical selection by the Elgin Master Chorale.

After the ceremony, a reception will be hosted by State Senator Cristina Castro, State Senator Karen McConnaughay, State Representative Steve Andersson, and State Representative Anna Moeller.

Honorees may be people who live or work in Elgin, have taken citizenship classes in the city, or applied for citizenship through local agencies.

This annual event is coordinated by Elgin's New Citizen Recognition Committee, a group made up of community volunteers including representatives from Elgin Community College, the Gail Borden Public Library, the Literacy Connection, and Centro de Información.

If you would like to participate or have any questions, contact Halina Kopec at (847) 214-6975 or hkopec@elgin.edu; or Veian D'Abreu at (847) 695-9050. The public is also invited to attend the program. Honorees should respond no later than Friday, June 22.