New citizens

Twenty-five individuals from 11 countries were sworn in as U.S. citizens last week in the first naturalization ceremony held at the new federal courthouse in Cape Girardeau. They came from all over the world: China, Mexico and Slovakia, just to name a few.

A lot of effort and hard work went into becoming a citizen. Petitioners have to live in the U.S. for five years, pay a fee, pass rigorous background checks, conduct interviews and pass a test on general American history.

It's inspiring to see people from other nations work so diligently to pursue their citizenship here. The emotional and uplifting ceremony serves as a wonderful reminder of how great this country is.

Welcome, new citizens.