25 become citizens at Park Slope ceremony

More than two dozen New Yorkers became American citizens Tuesday in a naturalization ceremony in Park Slope.
They took an official oath in front of a federal judge at the Old Stone House, which was where the newly formed United States Army fought its first battle in the Revolutionary War on August 27, 1776.
The 25 new citizens immigrated from 17 different countries.
"It's great to become part of this great nation with all the value that it stands for, the value that it represents," said Felix Okema, who is originally from the Ivory Coast. "And it's truly a blessing."
The 25 new citizens were able to register to vote after the ceremony, something many of them said was first on their to-do list after becoming American citizens.
"You can finally make your voice count," said Marie Lourdes Andre, originally from Haiti.