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The annual naturalization event created 19 new American citizens on Tuesday.
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The new citizens take their oath to the Constitution.
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American Legion Post 152 shows the colors.
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William Reyburn performs for the event.
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The Berkshire Children's Chorus sings.
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Ivan Teixeira, who lives in the Amherst area, came from Cape Verde for a better life.
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The new Americans line up to get their certificates of citizenship.
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19 New Americans Sworn in at Naumkeag

By Brittany PolitoiBerkshires Staff
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U.S. District Court Judge Katherine Robertson stresses the importance of civic engagement before the new Americans take their oath. 

STOCKBRIDGE, Mass. — Nineteen new Americans were sworn in on the grounds of Naumkeag on Tuesday morning. 

The annual naturalization ceremony and presentation of certificates honors all of the work that goes into becoming a citizen.

"It's really important that we tell you how much we need you here, how much we want you here, how very welcomed you are in this country," U.S. District Court Judge Katherine Robertson said to the group.

"We need you as new citizens. You belong here. This country would not be what it is without people like you. People who have chosen to live here, who have chosen to raise your families here, who have chosen to work here. We value the contributions we know you've already made as residents. We value the contributions we know you're going to make to citizens."

The new citizens' countries of origin included Cambodia, Canada, China, the Dominican Republic, Ghana, Kenya, South Korea, Mexico, Uganda, and more.

Ivan Teixeira, who lives in the Amherst area, came from Cape Verde for a better life. He said he would love to have a government job but is open to many different opportunities.

"It feels so great," he said. "It's my dream."

Wendy Del Mul and Krista Katsoras, both native to Canada, have lived in the United States with their spouses for some time.

Del Mul said it has been a long journey, as she has been a resident for more than a decade, and is happy, proud, and excited. She lives just north of Boston.

"I'm really looking forward to being able to vote," she said. "So for me, that's a really big deal to be able to sort of participate in the democracy of the country and that's the biggest change for me."


Katsoras has been working toward citizenship for about five years but said it felt like a long time, especially with the COVID-19 pandemic.

She is now relieved of many extra steps that had to be taken for everyday things such as proving her marriage. An Easthampton resident, she is glad to have the reassurance that she can stay in her home.

"It's just so sweet and I feel so welcome," she said about the ceremony.

The event is hosted by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the Berkshire Immigrant Center, and the Trustees of Reservations.

BIC's Executive Director Melissa Canavan said this day marks the culmination of years of hard work, perseverance, and dedication.

"Each of you has embraced the ideals and the values that define this nation: freedom, equality and the pursuit of happiness. As we gather here we are reminded of the remarkable diversity that defines our country. The United States has always been a land of immigrants, a melting pot where people from all corners of the world come together to build a better future, and today you join that legacy becoming an integral part of the American story," she said.

"As you embark on this new chapter of your lives, I encourage you never to forget the journey that brought you here. Hold on to your unique cultural identities and heritage for they are a source of strength and richness that you bring to this nation. Embrace the opportunities that lie ahead and seize the chance to make a positive impact on your communities, your fellow citizens, and the world."

Robertson urged the new Americans to participate in civic life and vote.

"I believe that the most important new right that you've gained today is the right to vote," she said, adding that voting expresses views of how this state should be run, how this country should be run, what the laws should be, and how public money should be spent.

Shanita Tucker, USCIS field office director, was the master of ceremonies and there were musical performances from William Reyburn and the Berkshire Children's Chorus. American Legion Post 152 posted the colors.


Tags: citizenship,   swearing in,   

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BHS And CDCSB Partner to Improve Housing Availability

GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass — Berkshire Health Systems (BHS) and the Community Development Corporation of Southern Berkshire (CDCSB) are partnering to support the expansion of workforce housing in South County. 
 
BHS will provide the CDCSB with financial support to make some units of the Thornewood available for temporary housing of healthcare workers who face barriers in finding available housing options.
 
"As part of our mission to advance health and wellness for everyone in our community, we recognize that creating better access to housing resources for a diverse population of workers will make a real impact," said Darlene Rodowicz, president & CEO of BHS. "We were pleased to work with the CDCSB to develop this innovative new collaboration focused on addressing one of the core challenges in our community—accessible, affordable workforce housing through the redevelopment of the Thornewood Inn." 
 
The Thornewood, at 453 Stockbridge Rd. in Great Barrington, has 16 furnished units that are suitable for 1–2 adults and vary in size, layout, and features.
 
"BHS's early support of the Thornewood project is greatly appreciated," said CDCSB Board President Jim Harwood. "Our partnership not only addresses a critical community need for short- and long-term housing for healthcare workers, but the additional financial support also allows us to provide this housing at affordable levels and fund ongoing upgrades for the property, such as our current project to build an improved shared kitchen for Thornewood residents."
 
According to the CDCSB, applicants working in Great Barrington will receive priority access to the rooms. Those working elsewhere in Berkshire County are also eligible. Eligibility for the affordable units is subject to maximum income levels.
 
For more information on The Thornewood, visit www.cdcsb.org.
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