Logan County resident to become U.S. citizen May 2

[April 17, 2014]  CHESTNUT — A resident of the small town of Chestnut will be sworn in as a United States citizen during a ceremony on May 2 at the Old State Capital in downtown Springfield. Cesar Andrade DeVargas is humbly looking forward to the privilege. He has had a long wait on his journey to apply for citizenship, meeting several roadblocks in the application process.

Cesar Andrade is a well-loved citizen of the Chestnut community. He and his wife, Rosa, moved to Chestnut eight years ago, bringing their newborn daughter, Lupita, and buying the local restaurant. Along the way, their second child, Juan Roberto, arrived, and they then purchased a new home.

Originally from Guanajuato, Mexico, Andrade came to the United States and began to work in several chain restaurants. He worked his way up to catering services and training new restaurant staff. His goal was to own his own business and live and raise his children in a small-town environment.

While owning and managing the Chestnut Family Restaurant, he has become a volunteer fireman with the town's fire department. He often manages community fundraising dinners and hosts a monthly Sunday brunch. He is excited about his citizenship ceremony because it's a dream come true.

Following the ceremony in Springfield, his regular customers will host a party at his restaurant at approximately 5 p.m. to celebrate his new citizenship.

[Text from file received from Rebecca Drake]