Proud to be an American

On Dec. 13, 1956, Judy Hoover became a citizen of the United States. In honor of Independence Day, she shared this photo with the Observer. It was given to her the day of her naturalization.

Hoover was born in a refugee camp  in Germany following World War II. She was an orphan but was adopted by a couple who lived in Ohio. 

“My naturalization certificate is the most important document to me, and this pledge to the flag,” she said. “You know, so many people are in this country, and if they don’t know anyone that has come from a different place and different circumstances, they may not appreciate all the freedoms and all the opportunity.”

Week of June 25-July 1

                        2017        2016

Nests                 156         144

False Crawls     258         222

Total as of July 1

                        2017         2016

Nests                 884           716

False Crawls     786           806

Courtesy of Mote Marine Laboratory