Yemeni Canton Business Owner's American Dream Ends With Citizenship

An Canton business owner, originally from Yemen, gained his citizenship Friday at a ceremony in Hartford.

Avdo Algahmi, a resident of Avon, took the oath to become a U.S. citizen after a year of working with United State Customs and Immigration, according to a release from state Rep. Tim LeGeyt (Avon and Canton), who attended the ceremony.

“I’ve known Abdo and his family for almost seven years now. He is a principled and modest man who is so honored to be able to live in our country and to raise his children here as well,” LeGeyt said. 

Algahmi came to the United States in 1993 in pursuit of a better life, the release said. He first worked in Manhattan for six years, then moved to Avon with his wife, Aziah, and their five children, ranging from ages 3-17.  

Alghami started his own business, Cherry Brook Pizza and Groceries in Canton in 2006 with a partner. The restaurant serves thin crust pizza, pasta dinners, grinders, and burgers in addition to selling gourmet coffees and grocery items.

“Abdo epitomizes the qualities we want to see in the persons who make up our immigrant citizenry-a strong ethical construct, an allegiance to our country, a commitment to family, and an appreciation of the opportunities that this country provides for those who, like Abdo, who work very hard in pursuit of their dream,” LeGeyt said.