Thursday, March 24, 2005
Iran, Syria, Pakistan and Philippines were countries represented in ceremony.
YOUNGSTOWN -- Judge Maureen A. Cronin of Mahoning County Common Pleas Court often sits on the bench to pass out harsh judgments for those who violate the law.
On Wednesday, however, the judge had a more pleasant task -- welcoming several people as America's newest citizens.
At a naturalization ceremony, Judge Cronin reminded them that "our nation is not perfect, and there are many vices here, but we, in America, can change our vices by the ability to vote."
She said the ability to vote gives all Americans a voice in their government.
She added she admired the new citizens because "you took the hard steps necessary to become a voice in America."
Diana J. Slack, supervisor for the clerk of courts, introduced the candidates for citizenship, and Kathi McNabb Welsh, chief deputy clerk of courts, administered the oath of allegiance.
Maureen Collins of Easy Street Productions provided musical entertainment, and a representative from the Daughters of the America Revolution passed out miniature flags to the new citizens.
The citizens, their country of origin, and the area they are living in Mahoning County are:
U Amir Houshang Tajaddini, Iran, Poland.
U Janak Raj Taneja, India, Boardman.
U Sharilyn Azaula Gainan, Philippines, Boardman.
U Fatema Abdou Azzam, Syria, Canfield.
U Faihaa Baroudi, Syria, Campbell.
U Saaida Shahid Khan, Pakistan, Boardman.