FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dec. 1, 2017

Contact: Jane Lerner, Director of Strategic Communications
Office of the County Executive (845) 638-5645
lernerj@co.rockland.ny.us

Rockland County Welcomes 161 new Americans in Naturalization Ceremony

POMONA, NY – Rockland welcomed 161 new Americans today in a touching Naturalization Ceremony held at the Fire Training Center.

Rockland County Executive Ed Day spoke during the ceremony about "the magic of becoming an American citizen."

"I see the joy in your eyes as you choose to join this Democracy and make the United States of America your home," he said.

Numerous local officials attended the ceremony, which was organized by Rockland County Clerk Paul Piperato, who administered the Oath of Citizenship.

The new citizens came from 43 different nations.

The keynote speaker was retired New York State Supreme Court Justice Victor J. Alfieri.

New York State Supreme Court Justice Thomas Walsh presided over the naturalization.

Numerous local officials in addition to County Executive Day congratulated the new citizens, including Rockland County Legislative Chairman Toney Earl, Legislator Aney Paul and State Senator David Carlucci.

Veterans organizations took part in the ceremony, including the Marine Corps League, Jewish War Veterans and Sons of the American Revolution.

Maureen Corallo sang the national anthem. Representative of organizations that promote organ donation attended, including Roxanne Watson of Nanuet.

Part of the ceremony can be viewed online here or at https://www.facebook.com/rocklandgov/videos/1483340998410476/

Pictured (Judge Thomas Walsh, Paul Piperato, County Executive Ed Day, Judge Victor Alfieri, David Carlucci and Toney Earl)