Article Contributed on: 9/4/2008 11:54:24 AM
The political excitement of a presidential campaign certainly adds value to the privilege of voting. In the Denver area new citizenships are up 44% this year according to the Rocky Mountain News and each new naturalized citizen paid $675 to apply.
Successful application also includes many other privileges such as being able to travel on a U. S. passport and being eligible for a federal job. But the cost is not refundable if the process fails and the last step includes a civics test on United States government, history and geography conducted orally in English.
Fortunately the Douglas County Libraries offer support for prospective new citizens including:
1. A Citizenship Class that explains how to apply and answers many of the history, government and geography questions. Registration is free. The next class begins at Highlands Ranch Library on September 13, 2008 with a series of four classes from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. each Saturday through October 4.
2. One 2 One in which volunteers assist learners one on one. Free and available at any library in the district. Application required.
Class application may be made at the Highlands Ranch Library or online at
www.DouglasCountyLibraries.org, or by calling the contact center at 303-791-7323. For any questions, please contact, Molly Elkins, Literacy Specialist at 303-688-7646 or email
melkins@dclibraries.org.
Test yourself with this 10 question quiz. The website for answers and study materials is
www.uscis.gov.
Take the Test
1. Why does the U.S. flag have 50 stars?
2. Name one United States territory.
3. Under the constitution, some powers belong to the States. What is one power reserved for the states?
4. If both the President and Vice President are no longer able to serve, who becomes President?
5. How many amendments does the Constitution have now?
6. During the Cold War, what was the main concern of the United States?
7. What territory did the U. S. buy from France in 1803?
8. What are the duties of the Supreme Court?
9. What is the Bill of Rights?
10. Can you name ten of the original thirteen states?