At a very inspiring ceremony today at Abington Senior High School, 64 applicants became US citizens under the auspices of the Honorable Gary S. Silow, Judge of the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas and an Abington alumnus. Abington Principal Mr. Angelo Berrios greeted the new citizens and their guests and families as well as Abington civics and government students. In his introduction, Mr. Berrios described his family’s roots and heritage from countries other than the United States. Judge Silow opened his court and spoke about various aspects and positive elements of US citizenship. Melvin Roby, Supervisory Immigration Services Officer provided the motion for admission of applications and the Honorable Mark Levy, Prothonotary of the Montgomery County Court of Common Pleas, administered the Oath of United States Citizenship. The new citizens, their families and guests, and Abington students then heard from inspirational speakers that included: Josh Shapiro, Chair of the Montgomery County Commissioners; Bruce Pancio, President of the Montgomery Bar Association; Colonel Bob DeSousa, State Director on behalf of Senator Toomey; Jonathan Grode, Co-Chair of the American Bar Association L&E Law Section Immigration Committee and an Abington graduate; Bruce Castor, Jr., Montgomery County Commissioner; Anthony Luker, another proud Abington graduate and District Director for Congressman Brendan Boyle; Valerie Arkoosh, Montgomery County Commissioner; Margery Reith, Regent of the William Penn Chapter of DAR; Frank Caiola provided a tribute to the United States flag; and student speaker Joshua Gardner, President of the Abington Senior High School Student Council. The Abington Senior High School Select Chorus performed the National Anthem and the Brass Ensemble performed “America.” The String Ensemble performed various selections in the lobby as guests and new citizens arrived. It was a very moving ceremony; it was very clear to see the pride of the individuals from around the world who became new US citizens and the enthusiasm and respect of Abington students for the new citizens.