Ceremony to recognize new citizens

Are you a new U.S. citizen or do you know someone who is? If so, then you are invited to attend Elgin's 17th annual New Citizen Recognition Ceremony at 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 24, 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 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 about the journey to citizenship, followed by a musical selection by the Elgin Master Chorale.

After the ceremony, a reception sponsored by state Sen. Michael Noland (22nd Dist.), state Sen. Karen McConnaughay (33rd Dist.), state Rep. Steven Andersson (65th Dist.), state Rep. Anna Moeller (43rd Dist.), Kane County Clerk John A. Cunningham, and the League of Women Voters will be held for the new citizens.

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 Centro de Información, Elgin Community College and The Literacy Connection.

If you would like to participate or have any questions, call Jaime Garcia at Centro de Informacion at (847) 695-9050 or Karen Oswald (847) 742-6565.

Honorees should respond no later than Tuesday, June 23.