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Immigrants sworn in as American citizens today at Disney

The Associated Press

Amne Chehaiber, originally from Lebanon, joined over 1,000 immigrants as they gathered in front of Cinderella's Castle for the naturalization ceremony to become American citizens.

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TBO.com Staff Report

Published: July 3, 2009

More than 1,000 immigrants were sworn in as U..S. citizens on Main Street, U.S.A. at Disney World today.

The group then attended a preview of the new show at Disney's renovated Hall of Presidents, which has been closed for eight months. The attraction officially re-opens Saturday.

From more than 100 countries and ranging in age from 18 to 82, the immigrants included Tampa-based Air Force Senior Airman Brenda Langdon. The Colombia native led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Actor Andy Garcia – a native of Cuba and naturalized citizen himself – delivered a keynote address.

The renovated Hall of Presidents now includes the figure of President Obama, and a show that tells the story of the bond between the presidents and "We, the People," focusing on chief executives who have guided America through turbulent times.

Obama's Audio-Animatronics double makes comments that were recorded recently at the White House.

For video of President Obama in the White House Map Room recording his audio track for the Hall of Presidents, log on to www.whitehouse.gov/blog/.

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