Flaco Guapo
Story, photos courtesy of and permission by Conexión San Ángelo
SAN ANGELO – “We are a nation of immigrants, and the strength that the United States centers around is the diversity of ideas put into action by generations of immigrants who came before us.” We are descendants of people who came from other places, regardless of how we arrived here, whether on the Mayflower, on slave ships, through Ellis Island, across the Rio Grande, or any other means.”
In his brief remarks at Wednesday’s January 9 U.S. Naturalization ceremony, guest speaker, Daniel Valenzuela, San Angelo City Manager, addressed 31 individuals from nine countries representing: Republic of China, (1) India (2), Iran (1), Jordan (1), South Korea (1), Nepal (5), Philippines (1), West Germany (1) and Mexico (18).
Eun Hye Kang from the Republic of China, takes the oath of American citizenship conducted by the Honorable Judge, Scott Frost during a swearing-in ceremony which took place at the O.C. Fisher Federal Building.
Nikita Ashokbhai Bhakta who is in the middle, became at U.S. citizen at this morning's 10 a.m. naturalization ceremony which was presided over by the Honorable Judge, Scott Frost. Nikita was one of two from India who was sworn in.
Claudia Yanet Cuellar Ramos, one of 18 from Mexico was sworn in this morning on January 9th as the U.S. naturalization ceremony took place on the second floor of the O.C. Fisher Federal Building.
Mr. Valenzuela spoke to his “soon-to-be fellow Americans” as he welcomed them, their families and friends into one big family called, Americans. “This is your country.” “It will embrace you, protect you and afford you many tremendous opportunities.” “Please always keep in mind and in your heart to show your gratitude to this great country that you are dedicated and committed in service to her.” “My sincerest congratulations to all of you,” concluded Valenzuela. 
Among the 18 who were from Mexico was Patricia Gonzalez Acevedo. She was asked how it felt to finally become a U.S. citizen. “I am very proud to be a citizen now” said Acevedo as her daughter, Selena, translated into English.
Selena stated that she and her nine-year-old niece helped mom and grandma to study for the test.
“Selena, how do you feel about your mom becoming a citizen of the United States. “I am so proud of her, finally, finally, finally!” as she could not contain her excitement for her mom’s moment of accomplishment as one of the 31 individuals sworn in--no longer soon-to-be, but now fellow citizens of these United States!