USF-I Naturalization Ceremony: 4th of July, 2010

USF-I Naturalization Ceremony: 4th of July, 2010

virgilatmit July 04, 2010
The Oath of Citizenship was taken by 156 U.S. Service Members--stationed everywhere throughout Iraq--here at Al Faw Palace on the 4th of July. The ceremony was hosted by General Odierno, Commanding General of United States Forces-Iraq, and featured Vice President Biden and his wife.

"I hereby declare, on oath,

that I absolutely and entirely renounce and abjure all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state or sovereignty, of whom or which I have heretofore been a subject or citizen;

that I will support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States of America against all enemies, foreign and domestic;

that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same;

that I will bear arms on behalf of the United States when required by the law;

that I will perform noncombatant service in the armed forces of the United States when required by the law;

that I will perform work of national importance under civilian direction when required by the law;

and that I take this obligation freely without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion;

so help me God."

See also:

USCIS: July 4 Weekend: Members of the US Armed Forces Naturalize at Ellis Island

USCIS: Samantha Eddleman: "You Enlist a Marine - You Reenlist a Family"

4th of July at the White House 2010

WH.gov: 4th of July at the White House 2010

The White House and the USO celebrate the 4th of July with service members and their families at the White House Independence Day celebration on the South Lawn. Performers at this years celebration included Brandi Carlile, Cedric the Entertainer and the rock band The Killers.

Fireworks on the National Mall from the White House

WH.gov: Fireworks on the National Mall from the White House

The President delivers Remarks at Independence Day Celebration

WH.gov: The President delivers Remarks at Independence Day Celebration

President Obama speaks to military families celebrating Independence Day on the South Lawn of the White House.

Milpitas Fourth of July Firework Finale

Milpitas Fourth of July Firework Finale

HUGE crowd--everyone was peaceful and proud. I love Milpitas!

Celebrating Independence Day With Parades, Fireworks and Water Balloon Fights

USCIS 100:09. What are two rights in the Declaration of Independence? mp3 doc (by uscitizenpod)

Rugged Old Flag was written and sung by Johnny Cash

VOANews: Celebrating Independence Day With Parades, Fireworks and Water Balloon Fights

Another good special from AMERICAN MOSAIC, VOA’s radio magazine in Special English. I especially enjoyed Johnny Cash' song, Rugged Old Flag. Also, a question from China about General Douglas MacArthur. download MP3

VOANews: Americans Mark July 4 Independence Day Holiday

Independence Day holiday marks the occasion in 1776 when US colonies declared independence from Britain

VOANews: Clinton Calls for Reflection on US Ideals During July 4 Independence Day Holiday

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is urging people to reflect on the ideals of the founding fathers of the United States this Independence Day as nearly 4,000 people prepare to become U.S. citizens.

VOANews: Smithsonian Folklife Festival Celebrates Cultural Traditions

More than a million people are coming to Washington for Independence Day festivities and for annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival

Open for Questions: Comprehensive Immigration Reform

WH.gov: Open for Questions: Comprehensive Immigration Reform

Director of White House Intergovernmental affairs Cecilia Muñoz takes questions from a roundtable of journalists and from online participants on the President's Call for Immigration Reform. July 1, 2010.

Obama Calls for Immigration Reform

VOAVideo: Obama Calls for Immigration Reform

U.S. President Barack Obama is calling on Congress to rise above partisan divisions and fix the country's immigration system. In a speech Thursday, Mr. Obama said the failure of lawmakers in Washington to act makes the problem of illegal immigration worse. VOA's Kent Klein has more.

West Wing Week: 07/02/10 or "Home of the Kringle"

West Wing Week: 07/02/10 or "Home of the Kringle"

Thanks for checking out the West Wing Week, your guide to everything that's happening at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. This week, walk step by step with President Obama as he gets a lesson in mathematics in the Oval Office, attends the G8 and G20 summits in Canada, meets with the Chairman of the Federal Reserve, hosts King Abdullah in the White House and much more.

Obama Immigration Reform-Full HQ video

WH.gov: President Obama on Comprehensive Immigration Reform

President Obama calls for both parties to come together to fix a broken immigration system and implement comprehensive reform that demands accountability from government, from businesses, and from individuals. July 1, 2010.


Obama Immigration Reform-Full HQ video
UpTakeVideo July 01, 2010 At American University today, President Obama outlines a road map for immigration reform that includes holding businesses, illegal immigrants responsible and fixing the broken legal immigration system

also see: WH.gov: The President's Speech, and a Chat, on Comprehensive Immigration Reform

US Senators Question Supreme Court Nominee Elena Kagan

U.S. Supreme Court nominee Elena Kagan faced questioning Tuesday on the second day of her confirmation hearings before the Senate Judiciary Committee. Kagan is a former dean of the Harvard University Law School and the current U.S. Solicitor General, a post that represents the U.S. government before the Supreme Court. VOA's Carolyn Presutti has more.

LONG MAY SHE WAVE!

What do teachers do when school is out? Teachers go to school! This week, I am attending the Adobe Multimedia Summer Institute at the Krause Center of Innovation, Foothill College to learn how to produce Citizenship videos. Today, we are learning about PhotoShop. Here is a quick jpg that I just made--LONG MAY SHE WAVE!

Feds propose hike in cost of green cards, visas

Feds propose hike in cost of green cards, visas Matt O'Brien, Contra Costa Times

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is proposing increases in immigration document fees:

• Application for green card: $985 (from $930)
• Application to replace green card: $365 (from $290)
• Application to be temporary resident: $1,130 (from $710)
• Application for work permit: $380 (from $340)
• Petition for alien relative: $420 (from $355)
• Immigrant visa: $165 (from $0; immigrants already pay visa fees to State Department)
• Biometric/fingerprinting: $85 (from $80)
• Civil surgeon designation: $615 (from $0)
• regional center for immigrant investors: $6,230 (from $0)
• N-400 Naturalization (citizenship): $595 (no change)

Go to www.regulations.gov or www.uscis.gov to learn how to comment on the proposals.
Source: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services

Where do I send my N-400?

Recently I was asked about the proper address for the N-400. Why are there two addresses for each region? Most Express Mail or Courier companies (ie FedEX, UPS, DHL, etc) will not deliver to a PO Box. If an applicant wants to send their N-400 via Express Mail, USCIS provides a street address for each region. If an applicant send his/her N-400 via US mail (USPS), they must add extra postage because the package weighs more than an ounce**. Put in the large envelope:

1. the N-400
2. 2 passport-sized photos
3. a copy of the front and back of the legal Permanent Resident Card
4. plus a check for $675*

Some people also add a return receipt and insurance. Before you put the N-400 in the envelope, MAKE TWO COPIES OF YOUR N-400 (the first for back-up, the second for practice. TAKE THE SSN OFF THE PRACTICE COPY). 

UPDATED 09-21-2021

Where to File

You generally have two options for filing your Form N-400 with USCIS:

• Online, or
• By mail (paper).

Filing your Form N-400 online

You must create a USCIS online account to file your Form N-400 online. Having an online account will also allow you to:

• Pay your filing fee online;
• Check the status of your case;
• Receive notifications and case updates;
• View personalized case completion date estimates;
• Respond to requests for evidence; and
• Manage your contact information, including updating your address.

Note for Attorneys and Accredited Representatives: You can also create an online account, which will allow you to manage all of your clients’ applications in one place.

Filing your Form N-400 by mail

If you are applying based on being a current or former member of the military, a spouse of a current member of the military, or a close relative of a deceased member of the military, do not use this chart. Go to section 3 below to see where you must mail your form.

All other applicants must use the chart below.

If you submit Form N-400 on paper, you will receive a USCIS Account Acceptance Notice in the mail with instructions on how to create an online account to track and manage your case.  We will process your application even if you do not create an online account, but we encourage you to create and access your online account. We will continue to mail you copies of notifications about your case.

If you live in:	Mail your form to:
Alaska Arizona California Colorado Micronesia Guam Hawaii Idaho Kansas Mariana Islands Montana North Dakota Nebraska Nevada Oregon Utah Washington Wyoming	USCIS Phoenix Lockbox U.S. Postal Service (USPS): USCIS Attn: N-400 P.O. Box 21251 Phoenix, AZ 85036-1251 FedEx, UPS, and DHL deliveries: USCIS Attn: N-400 (Box 21251) 1820 E. Skyharbor Circle S Suite 100 Phoenix, AZ 85034-4850
If you live in:	Mail your form to:
Alabama Arkansas Connecticut District. Of Columbia Delaware Florida Georgia Kentucky Louisiana Massachusetts Maryland Maine Mississippi North Carolina New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York Oklahoma Puerto Rico Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Virginia Virgin Islands Vermont West Virginia	USCIS Dallas Lockbox U.S. Postal Service (USPS): USCIS Attn: N-400 P.O. Box 660060 Dallas, TX 75266-0060 FedEx, UPS, and DHL deliveries: USCIS Attn: N-400 (Box 660060) 2501 S State Hwy 121 Business Suite 400 Lewisville, TX 75067-8003
If you live in:	Mail your form to:
Illinois Indiana Wisconsin Iowa Michigan Minnesota Ohio Missouri Pennsylvania	USCIS Chicago Lockbox U.S. Postal Service (USPS): USCIS Attn: N-400 P.O. Box 4380 Chicago, IL 60680-4380 FedEx, UPS, and DHL deliveries: USCIS Attn: N-400 (Box 4380) 131 S. Dearborn, 3rd Floor Chicago, IL 60603-5517

Military Members

If you are applying based on being a current or former member of the military; a spouse of a current member of the military; or a spouse, parent or child of a deceased member of the military, you may file your Form N-400 online or by mail. If you choose to file by mail, send your application to the location listed below:

USCIS Chicago Lockbox

U.S. Postal Service (USPS):

USCIS
Attn: Military N-400
P.O. Box 4446
Chicago, IL 60680-4446

FedEx, UPS, or DHL deliveries:

USCIS
Attn: Military N-400 (Box 4446)
131 S. Dearborn, 3rd Floor
Chicago, IL 60603-5517

If you submit Form N-400 on paper, you will receive a USCIS Account Acceptance Notice in the mail with instructions on how to create an online account to track and manage your case.  We will process your application even if you do not create an online account, but we encourage you to create and access your online account. We will continue to mail you copies of notifications about your case.

Filing Tips: Go to our Form Filing Tips page for information on how to help ensure we will accept your application.

Don’t forget to sign your form. We will reject any unsigned form.

West Wing Week: 06/25/10 or "Mailbag Day"

WH.gov: West Wing Week: 06/25/10 or "Mailbag Day"

Mailbag Day! We decided to make episode thirteen of West Wing Week a chance to respond to some of your letters and emails. This week, find out if the White House composts, learn which direction the eagle on the Presidential seal faces, and examine the process by which the flag flying over the White House is lowered to half-staff.

Iowa Agencies End Refugee Resettlement Programs

VOAVideo: Iowa Agencies End Refugee Resettlement Programs

Last year, approximately 75,000 refugees resettled in the United States. The U.S. is one of the leading countries providing a new home to those fleeing war, poverty and conflict. In 2009, the midwestern state of Iowa welcomed 908 of those refugees. Their arrival comes at a time when jobs are less available nationwide as a result of a weak economy. Now, two of the three Iowa agencies resettling refugees plan to end their programs. VOA's Kane Farabaugh has more.

Amazing journey for America's newest citizen

American Citizen Miguel Sernas

An amazing journey by Joe Rodriguez, SJ Mercury

He can't hear, talk or write, but a former illegal immigrant becomes an American after passing a unique citizenship test. Is sign-language school next? (photos gallery)

White House Highlights Stimulus Job Creation

VOAVideo: White House Highlights Stimulus Job Creation

VOAvideo — June 21, 2010 — U.S. President Barack Obama visited Columbus, Ohio Friday to mark the groundbreaking on the 10,000th road project funded by the American Recovery Act. The president's visit is part of the administration's efforts to shine a spotlight on the impact of the approximately 800 billion dollar stimulus package on job creation. But as VOA's Mil Arcega reports, some economists say the stimulus is creating fewer jobs than the White House claims.

Children's Art Project contest: "We Are America"

USCIS blog: The Beacon: Children's Art Project: "We Are America"

The USCIS is hosting a children’s art project themed "We Are America," asking children (5-12) to share their ideas on the following question:

"People have come from all over the world

to become Americans.

Why does that make us great?"

The USCIS will display submissions in USCIS offices across the country and will recognize participants during the 2010 celebration of the "September 11 National Day of Service and Remembrance."

The deadline to submit artwork is August 16 so tell young artists to get out the crayons, paint and markers and start drawing. For full details on the project, please visit the Children’s Art Project page.

Happy Father's Day!

Also see today's USCIS blog post:
This Sunday: Father’s Day & World Refugee Day

Happy Father's Day to my dad, Gene Gagliardi, to the Milpitas Dads, and all fathers, everywhere! Happy Father's Day to my dad, Gene Gagliardi, to the Milpitas Dads, and all fathers, everywhere!

You can watch the slide show or download the pictures from Flickr. Many of these pictures were taken during classroom Passing the US Citizenship Interview parties.

West Wing Week: 06/18/10 or "Gator-cade"

In the intro, Vice-President Biden talks about the very cool One Year Anniversary Recovery Act Map--check it out!

West Wing Week: 06/18/10 or "Gator-cade"

whitehouse — June 17, 2010 — Thanks for checking out the West Wing Week, your guide to everything that's happening at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Join President Obama this week as he hosts an event for small business owners in the Oval Office, makes his fourth trip to the Gulf Coast, meets with governors, residents and workers to discuss the spill, speaks at the Naval Air Station in Pensacola, gives his first Oval Office address, meets with BP Executives, speaks at the American Nurses Association and much more.

USCIS Holds Children's Citizenship Ceremony to Celebrate Flag Day

USCIS Holds Children's Citizenship Ceremony to Celebrate Flag Day

WASHINGTON—U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) kicked off a week-long celebration of Flag Day by hosting a special children’s citizenship ceremony today at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History. During the ceremony, USCIS Director Alejandro Mayorkas administered the Oath of Allegiance to 24 children from 18 different countries, spoke about the significance of Flag Day, and launched a new children’s art project with the theme “We Are America.” (read more)

Boy Scouts of America Celebrate 100th Anniversary

Boy Scouts of America Celebrate 100th Anniversary

VOAvideo — June 15, 2010 — This year the Boy Scouts of America celebrates its 100th anniversary. In the hometown of the founder, William Dickson Boyce, hundreds of Scouts from around the country gathered recently to honor his memory, and to celebrate the values of Scouting in the United States. VOA's Kane Farabaugh has more from Illinois.

Flag Day

When is Flag Day?

My father displays the flag on Flag Day (June 14) and other civic holidays.

Flag Day is in June.

USCIS Fee Increase for the N-400???

Current: $675

($595 plus a biometrics fee of $80).

Proposed 2010-2011 change: $680

($595 current fee with the $85 biometrics fee)

USCIS Blog: The Beacon Director Mayorkas on Proposed Fee Rule

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has posted to the Federal Register its proposed fee rule that would adjust fees for immigration benefit applications and petitions. The proposed fee rule will be available for public comment at regulations.gov on Friday, June 11. (read more)

From the Federal Register:

3. Application for Naturalization DHS proposes to provide special consideration to the fee for an Application for Naturalization (Form N-400), by limiting the fee at its current level of $680 ($595 current fee with the $85 biometrics fee).

USCIS received many comments on the FY 2008/2009 Fee Rule expressing concern that the N-400 fee had been increased inordinately. 72 FR at 29856.

DHS has determined that the act of requesting and obtaining U.S. citizenship deserves special consideration given the unique nature of this benefit to the individual applicant, the significant public benefit to the Nation, and the Nation's proud tradition of welcoming new citizens.

DHS believes this action to retain the naturalization fee at the current level will reinforce these principles, allow more immigrants to fully participate in civic life, and is consistent with other DHS efforts to promote citizenship and immigrant integration.\19\ For these reasons, and based on its experience in administering the naturalization program, DHS proposes to retain the fee for naturalization at the current level over the FY 2010/2011 biennial period.

(read more and scroll to Page 33461-33462)

West Wing Week: 06/11/10 or " Note to Self"

whitehouse — June 10, 2010 — Thanks for checking out the West Wing Week, your guide to everything that's happening at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. This week, walk step by step with the President as he speaks about job growth at K. Neal Trucks, makes his third visit to the Gulf Coast, announces his new Director of Intelligence, meets with Cabinet Secretaries about the BP oil spill, delivers the commencement address at Kalamazoo High School,holds a live tele-town hall with seniors about health care and much more.

CA Primary Election

Voting in the CA Primary Election in Precinct 1413, San Jose, CA, 95131. For candidates and issues, see www.sccvote.org/

I VOTED!

Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Milpitas Adult Ed supports Measure B!

Milpitas Adult Ed ESL/Citizenship proudly waving Measure B signs.

Vote Yes For Measure B! This is a group to encourage Milpitas residents to Vote Yes for a parcel tax on June 8, 2010. Schools will face more budget cuts again. If the ballot initiative is defeated, Milpitas schools could lose music, art, and sports programs.

A victory will require a two thirds majority. Meaning, for every No vote, the kids of Milpitas will need 2 Yes votes. The parcel tax is to save programs, not for salary.

The tax is $84 for 5 years for property owners. If you break it down, that equals $0.23 per day for 5 years. $7 a month for 5 years. Seniors are exempt.

Precinct Walking for Measure B

The students, parents, teachers of Milpitas Unified school district have been "walking precincts" (visiting the houses of registered voters within a section of a town or city--subdivided for election purposes) to encourage registered voters to pass a temporary parcel tax to support local K-12 public schools.

West Wing Week: 06/04/10 or "More All"

West Wing Week: 06/04/10 or "More All"

whitehouse — June 03, 2010 — Thanks for checking out the 10th episode of West Wing Week, your guide to everything that's happening at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Walk step by step with the President as he visits the troubled Gulf Coast, celebrates Memorial Day, honors Paul McCartney and the current National Spelling Bee Champ, meets with General Odierno and President Garcia of Peru, and much more.

Immigration Law Divides Arizona City

VOAVideo: Immigration Law Divides Arizona City

June 04, 2010 — A law intended to curb illegal immigration is to take effect in (the state of) Arizona in late July and is generating controversy across the United States. Recent polls indicate a majority of Americans, including those in Arizona, support the new law which requires non-citizens to carry documents that show that they are legally in the country. It also requires Arizona police to question people if there is reason to believe they are in the US illegally. Mike O'Sullivan reports from Tucson, Arizona that both sides in the debate say it's up to Washington to settle the immigration issue

VOANews: Obama, Arizona Governor Meet on Immigration, Controversial State Law

US President Barack Obama meets with Arizona Governor Jan Brewer, US Immigration Law, Arizona Immigration Law

Citizenship Interview Report-back by Mr and Mrs Chi

Citizenship Interview Report-back by Mr and Mrs Chi

uscitizenpod — June 01, 2010 — Milpitas Adult School students, Chi Kuang-Chien (husband) and Chen Hsiao-Ling (wife), talk about their interview on Fri, May 28. Gong Xi!

Names Added to Vietnam Veterans Memorial

VOAVideo: Names Added to Vietnam Veterans Memorial

June 01, 2010 — The U.S. National Park Service and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Fund say six names have been added to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, bringing the total number of names on the wall to 58,267. These additions will were recognized officially during Monday's annual Memorial Day Observance at the memorial wall. VOA's Suzanne Presto and Brian Allen in Washington take us to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, where a woman named Beth Cullom is flipping through a register to find the name of a young man she knew in the 1960s. Here is the story, in Beth Cullom's own words.

Memorial Day

Presidential Weekly Address: Honoring the Fallen

whitehouse — May 28, 2010 — Ahead of Memorial Day, the President asks all Americans to join him in remembering and honoring those who have died in service to the country.

VOANews: Americans Honor Fallen US Military Personnel

This year's Memorial Day celebrated as war in Afghanistan surges and U.S. prepares Iraq draw-down Full story »

• POW Issues at Forefront of Rolling Thunder Biker Rally in DC
• Remembering Fallen Warriors on Memorial Day
• Obama Honors Fallen US Veterans
• US Honors Those Killed During Years of Conflict in Afghanistan
• On Memorial Day, Honoring Military Service and Sacrifice
• Six Men, a World War, a Pacific Island and an Image for All Time

EL Civics.com: Memorial Day Photo Essay

Learn EL Civics with great pictures and easy words about Memorial Day and many other US Holidays, important Americans , and historical event.

ESL Holiday Lessons.com: English Lesson Plan on Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a United States federal holiday. It commemorates the American men and women who have died serving their country in the military. DOWNLOADS: Word Doc PDF MP3 Listening Online Exercise

Memorial Day: Vietnam Time Line

Memorial Day: Vietnam Time Line

Ngo Huu Phuc reads "The Vietnam Time Line" essay in honor of Memorial Day. Mr Ngo was a mechanic in the South Vietnam Air Force and was a Citizenship student at Milpitas Adult School. In the Summer 2010, Mr. Ngo became a US Citizen. He is proud of his service to the people of Vietnam and the United States and remembers his friends and family FOREVER!

You can find a copy of "The Vietnam Time Line" in HOLIDAYS AND SPECIAL DAYS IN THE USA by Mary Glasgow, Scholastic Inc., 2001, ISBN 1-900702-59-2.

reposted from 5/25/09

West Wing Week: 05/28/10 or " I, State Your Name"

West Wing Week: 05/28/10 or " I, State Your Name"

Free Download — whitehouse — May 27, 2010 — This week, walk step by step with the President he as signs a memorandum on fuel efficiency; meets with his economic team and Congressional leaders about Wall Street reform; delivers the commencement address at West Point; hosts the leaders of Lebanon and Liberia; plays basketball with Russian students; holds a reception for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders; celebrates National Small Business Week; holds discussions with Senate Republicans; travels to California and checks out some solar panels in Fremont (next to Milpitas); talks economics with workers; welcomes NCAA Men's Basketball Champs the Duke Blue Devils and the US World Cup Soccer Team; and gives a press conference on the BP oil spill.

US Looks Toward Memorial Day

US Looks Toward Memorial Day

VOAvideo — May 27, 2010 — The last Monday in May is "Memorial Day" in the United States, a day of remembrance for the country's military war dead. This year's observance comes as the number of casualties in Afghanistan has surpassed one thousand. VOA's Carolyn Presutti explains.

Students Love Taking the CASAS 966 Listening Test for Citizenship

The Milpitas Adult School Citizenship class field tested the 889

and really look forward to taking the 965/966.

CASAS 965/966 Gov’t/History LISTENING TEST for Citizenship
(formerly CASAS Citizenship Field Test 889, supersedes 963/964)

Multiple choice listening test.

• Students listen to thirty recorded questions.
• Each question is repeated twice.
• The questions are based on the new 100 questions.
• Practice audio files are available.
  

Meet Your Census Taker - Tuong Nguyen

My name is Tuong Nguyen.
I am the census enumerator.
I am a civil engineer with the department
of public works for 26 years.
I am working in my neighborhood.
I think I will enjoy and could help America.
And also to help my family too.

uscensusbureau — May 21, 2010 — "I am working in my neighborhood."Census takers are your neighbors, members from your community hired by the Census Bureau to count all households that did not send back their form. Your responses are kept confidential and will take only about ten minutes to answer.

Watch more Meet Your Census Taker videos from uscensusbureau on YouTube.

New Citizen Xoan Bui and Citizenship Classmates

NPR: Citizenship-By-Birth Faces Challenges

The 14th Amendment
Section 1. All persons born or naturalized in the United States,

and subject to the jurisdiction thereof,

are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside.

No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge

the privileges of immunities of citizens of the United States;

nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property,

without due process of law, nor deny to any person

within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.

Citizenship-By-Birth Faces Challenges : NPR
www.npr.org
The Constitution says all persons born in the U.S. are American citizens. But some lawmakers say that shouldn't apply to children of parents here illegally. They've introduced bills meant to trigger a legal battle about the issue.

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

WH.gov: Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

President Obama hosts a reception at the White House to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. May 24, 2010.

WH.gov: Presidential Proclamation--Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

For centuries, America's story has been tied to the Pacific. Generations of brave men and women have crossed this vast ocean, seeking better lives and opportunities, and weaving their rich heritage into our cultural tapestry. During Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we celebrate the immeasurable contributions these diverse peoples have made to our Nation...(read more)

AsianPacificHeritage.gov: May is Asian-Pacific American Heritage Month

The Library of Congress, National Archives and Records Administration, National Endowment for the Humanities, National Gallery of Art, National Park Service, Smithsonian Institution and United States Holocaust Memorial Museum join in paying tribute to the generations of Asian and Pacific Islanders who have enriched America’s history and are instrumental in its future success.

Arizona Immigration Law Fuels Debate in California

VOAVideo: Arizona Immigration Law Fuels Debate in California

A coalition of advocacy groups has filed (Monday, May 17), a lawsuit in Washington in an attempt to block a pend... VOAvideo — May 24, 2010 — A coalition of advocacy groups has filed (Monday, May 17), a lawsuit in Washington in an attempt to block a pending law in the western U.S. border state of Arizona. The Arizona law requires police to question people if there is reason to believe they are in the U.S. illegally. As VOA's Mike O'Sullivan reports, the statute will go into effect this summer, but it has prompted a backlash in neighboring California and other parts of the country.

To read more, see

• VOANews: Arizona Immigration Law Fuels Debate in California
  

Mexico's President Addresses US Congress

VOAvideo — May 21, 2010 — Mexican President Felipe Calderon is appealing directly to the American people, and their elected leaders, to reform immigration laws and strengthen gun control along the U.S.-Mexican border. Mr. Calderon made his case Thursday in a speech to a joint meeting of the U.S. Congress. VOA's Paula Wolfson reports.

Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week 2010

A Peace Office Memorial banner outside of the Modesto, CA Police Dept.

On October 1, 1962, the President designated May 15 of each year as "Peace Officers Memorial Day" and the week in which it falls as "Police Week."

• Presidential Proclamation--Peace Officers Memorial Day and Police Week 2010
• President Obama Honors Fallen Law Enforcement Officers
• President Obama Honors the Nations TOP COPS
• The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund

Obama, Calderon Blast Arizona Immigration Law

VOANews: Obama, Calderon Blast Arizona Immigration Law

President Barack Obama and Mexican President Felipe Calderon have held talks at the White House focusing on immigration and the ongoing joint battle against drug cartels and related violence. VOA correspondent Dan Robinson reports.

Also see:

• WhiteHouse.gov: Official Arrival of President Calderón (31 min)
• WhiteHouse.gov President Obama and President Calderón Press Conference (28 min)
• President Obama Toasts President Calderón of Mexico
• Presidents Obama, Calderón Speak Before Musical Performances
• VOANews: Calderon to Make State Visit to Washington

VOANews Money in Motion: Immigration Costs

VOANews Money in Motion: Immigration Costs

There are an estimated 12 million undocumented immigrants in the United States today. These immigrants currently present a quantifiable cost to the U.S., but would granting universal amnesty to the undocumented immigrants be a net economic benefit to the nation? Philip Alexiou has more in this edition of Money In Motion.

Happy Immigrant Day, California!

Immigrant Day is sponsored by the California Immigrant Welfare Collaborative in collaboration with many local community organizations such as SIREN-SJ. Immigrant Day is our annual lobby day that brings together hundreds of immigrant communities to Sacramento to meet their representatives and to celebrate the many contributions of immigrants to California.

Nancy Pelosi Makes History as Powerful House Speaker

USCIS 100:47. What is the name of the Speaker of the House of Representatives now?



VOAVideo: Nancy Pelosi Makes History as Powerful House Speaker

VOAvideo — May 11, 2010 — Nancy Pelosi has won broad recognition as an effective Speaker of the House of Representatives. But she is also the target of opposition Republicans trying to win back control of the House in this November's congressional elections. VOA Correspondent Cindy Saine reports on how Pelosi rose to become one of the most powerful people in the United States.

US Citizenship Podcast: Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi!

47. What is the name of the Speaker of the House of Representatives now?

• (Nancy) Pelosi

New video from uscitizenpod!

A Basic Citizenship Interview with Martin Maldonado (Peru). You can follow along with the Basic Interview pdf . Also, you can listen to the original mp3.

USCIS To Issue Redesigned Green Card

Click picture for larger image

USCIS: WASHINGTON - U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that it has redesigned the Permanent Resident Card - commonly known as the "Green Card" - to incorporate several major new security features. The Green Card redesign is the latest advance in USCIS¿s ongoing efforts to deter immigration fraud. State-of-the-art technology incorporated into the new card prevents counterfeiting, obstructs tampering, and facilitates quick and accurate authentication. Beginning today, USCIS will issue all Green Cards in the new, more secure format.

"Redesigning the Green Card is a major achievement for USCIS," said Director Alejandro Mayorkas. "The new security technology makes a critical contribution to the integrity of the immigration system." (read more...)

• USCIS To Issue Redesigned Green CardFact Sheet 05/11/2010
• USCIS To Issue Redesigned Green CardState-of-the-Art Technology Makes New Card More Secure 05/11/2010
• USCIS To Issue Redesigned Green CardQuestions and Answers 05/11/2010

How do I recognize a census taker?

US Census: How to recognize a census taker?

I just showed this video to my US Citizenship class. They really appreciated the info about how to identify the census taker (badge, bag, address book).

The students also appreciated the clear explanation about how the census take would contact them (three times in person or by phone and/or by appointment).

The students were relieved that the census taker will not ask to come into the house, nor ask the person for their social security number, credit history, or for a donation. The students are ever vigilant against identity theft and other "tricks".

The sub-titles also were a big help for the English language learners.

Kudos to the Census Media Dept for all their fine videos!

San Jose's May 1st Immigration March and against Arizona SB1070

May 1st Immigration March and against Arizona SB1070 from La RH CommunityServices on Vimeo. Or you can see it on YouTube.

Mothers Day at the White House

Mothers Day at the White House

whitehouse — May 07, 2010 — First Lady Michelle Obama welcomes special guests, including former First Lady Rosalyn Carter, to the White House for a special event for mothers and daughters at the White House. May 7, 2010.

America's Mixed-Race Kids Examine Their Identity

VOANews: America's Mixed-Race Kids Examine Their Identity

Photographs celebrate richness and beauty of multiracial society

Listen: MP3

President Obama Celebrates Cinco de Mayo

President Obama Celebrates Cinco de Mayo

Free Download — whitehouse — May 05, 2010 — The President celebrates Cinco de Mayo at a reception at the White House and calls on Congress to implement comprehensive immigration reform. May 5, 2010.

New Citizen Alfredo Quintana

Alfredo is proud of his family, his Union, his Mexican heritage,

and his American citizenship!

Alfredo Quintana was born in Guadalajara, Mexico and came to the United States in 1972. He settled in Milpitas, and joined Local Union 270 AFL-CIO as a construction worker. Alfredo currently serves as the Executive Board-Field Representative and travels all over Central California, organizing Union members and working on local political campaigns. On March 25, Alfredo became an American citizen. Bravo!

Naturalization Ceremony for U.S. Service Members

WH.gov: Naturalization Ceremony for U.S. Service Members (21 min.)

President Obama speaks at a naturalization ceremony for 24 members of the United States Armed Forces. The ceremony recognizes the contributions made by immigrant members of the U.S. armed forces who have earned their American citizenship through service to our country, and the contributions immigrants from all walks of life have made to our country throughout its history. Alejandro Mayorkas, Director of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) presents the home countries of the candidates for citizenship, and DHS Secy. Janet Napolitano administers the oath of citizenship. President Obama also presents Sgt. Ledum Ndaanee, USMC (E-5) with the Outstanding American by Choice recognition, which highlights the outstanding achievements of naturalized U.S. citizens.

KQED California Report: Republican Gubernatorial Debate

Former eBay executive Meg Whitman. left, and California Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner shake hands after a previous debate for the California Republican gubernatorial primary.

KQED California Report: Republican Gubernatorial Debate

KQED 88.5FM California report presents a debate between the leading Republican candidates for California governor, insurance commissioner Steve Poizner and former eBay executive Meg Whitman. KQED's Sacramento Bureau Chief John Myers moderates the debate, featuring questions to the candidates posed by a panel of reporters from other California news outlets. The debate is taking place at the Tech Museum of San Jose and the sponsors are: Comcast, Silicon Valley Leadership Group, Time Warner, Charter, Cox Cable, Cal Channel, CCTA and the Tech Museum.

• Download Mp3

**June 8, 2010 Gubernatorial Primary Election

Are You Already Registered to Vote in California?

To find out if you are currently registered to vote, contact your county elections office. If you are not registered to vote, you can ask your county elections office how to register.

Registering to Vote: You may register to vote in California if:

• You are a United States citizen
• You are a resident of California
• You are at least 18 years of age (or will be by the date of the next election)
• You are not in prison or on parole for a felony conviction. For more information on the rights of people who have been incarcerated, please see the Secretary of State's Voting Guide for Inmates.
• You have not been judged by a court to be mentally incompetent

Immigration Activists Protest Arizona Law

Immigration Activists Protest Arizona Law

VOAvideo — May 02, 2010 — Coast to coast rallies were held in the US Saturday to protest a controversial new immigration law in the southwestern state of Arizona. VOA's Daniela Schrier reports from a protest in Washington, DC.