One-hundred five candidates from the central portion of Kansas became United States citizens October 17. The ceremony was held at the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts in Salina. These new citizens came from 43 different countries. This special ceremony was held to celebrate the 150 anniversary of the District Court of Kansas and took place in Salina as it was one of the first cities in Kansas to host the District Court.
The Honorable John W. Lungstrum, U.S. District Judge presided over the ceremony. The Address was presented by the Honorable Lawton R. Nuss, Chief Justice of the Kansas Supreme Court. The Presentation of Colors and Pledge of Allegiance was provided by St. John’s Military School and the Salina High School Central Choir sang “America the Beautiful and The Star Spangled Banner”.
Each new citizen was presented a small United States flag, voter registration application form, and other information relative to their new status by the Daughters of the American Revolution, National Society of Colonial Dames of America and the League of Women Voters.    The United States District Court provided refreshments following the ceremony. After the ceremony the group went to Carlos O’Kellys to celebrate their achievement.
Citizenship classes have recently begun at the Barton Community College Center for Adult Education, 1025 Main in Great Bend. If anyone is interested in becoming a U.S. Citizen contact Doris Reile-Kneller at 620-791-7314.