Celebrate Freedom: Americanism Opportunities in October

Oh my gosh—it’s already October! Where is the time going?

Are you ready for Fall Fest? If you see me, please stop and say “Hi!” I’m truly enjoying meeting members from across the state and getting to know so many of you!

I’d like to highlight a few opportunities this month to promote Americanism in our local communities. You are already doing a fantastic job, promoting this year’s themes of Serving America’s Heroes as well as the Power of One! However, if you have a little room left on your calendar, consider celebrating one or more of these important dates:

October 7 – Global War on Terrorism & Desert Storm Veterans Day

• The post-9/11 conflicts have impacted many of our Oklahoma communities. Let’s continue to honor the men and women who answered the call and took up the fight to protect our nation.

• Consider hosting a fundraiser for a Veterans’ organization—it’s never too early to start preparing for Christmas!

• Organize a prayer vigil at a “Meet Me at the Pole” ceremony in your community.

• Submit an article to your local newspaper honoring the Veterans who served.

October 13 – Happy Birthday to the U.S. Navy!

• Celebrate the Navy’s birthday by hosting a Navy-themed party where the guests receive the gifts!

• Decorate your community with balloons.

• Invite a Navy Veteran to share, over coffee, their experiences and memories of serving in the Navy.

October 28 – Happy Birthday to the Statue of Liberty!

• Here’s another wonderful opportunity to celebrate American freedom and history.

• Research and share with your community the events leading up to the dedication of the Statue of Liberty on October 28, 1886, by President

Grover Cleveland.

• Consider hosting a birthday celebration or even putting together a reenactment!

• Let’s not forget this important universal symbol of freedom and democracy and what it represents to people around the world.

These are just a few suggestions for celebrating Americanism this month!

How are YOU promoting Americanism in your community? Please share your POP signage with me—I absolutely love seeing what you are doing!

You are all such an asset to our organization and to the great state of Oklahoma. Keep up the wonderful work! As always, if I can be of any assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here to help!

Pearl Gary, Americanism Chairman