Americanism Committee
What a great time to launch the RFWTV’s new committee, Americanism, as America celebrates her 250thbirthday! We will focus our efforts on projects that demonstrate loyalty to our history, flag, customs and institutions. As a new committee, we will explore specific projects such as
- “American” moment at our monthly meetings that exemplifies Americanism
- Sponsorship of one girl as a page to the Florida legislature
- July meeting – America’s birthday party – possible theme “A Celebration of Flags”
- Create a monthly discussion group to discuss Americanism, leadership and civil discourse
Meets 4th Tuesdays of each month | Belvedere Library | 10 a.m.
We honor our country’s history, flag, customs and institutions. We also work to secure a strong America for tomorrow’s generations. We have the opportunity to provide inspirational leadership to light the pathway for American greatness.
NFRW description of Americanism
Deb Butterfield, Chair
"To Be An American"
WHAT AMERICA MEANS TO ME - Deb Butterfield
4/9/2026
Americanism for me is a feeling that runs deep in my soul. It represents my love and pride for our country, my respect for our fragile Democracy. It is why I stand to pledge allegiance to our flag and sing our national anthem. It is why I vote, and why I serve.
My Americanism often manifests itself in patriotic music. When I am afraid for our country, as I was on 9/11, I often turn to music to remind me of America’s strength and resolve. During celebrations such as the 4th of July, I enjoy the music almost more than the fireworks.
Music, so well written, so long ago, reflects our joy and pride as Americans. It often moves me to tears.
So, this morning, I wanted to share one of my favorites; I think you’ll enjoy it.
Oh beautiful for heroes proved
In liberating strife
Who more than self, their country loved
And mercy more than life
America, America may God thy gold refine
'Til all success be nobleness
And every gain divined
And you know when I was in school
We used to sing it something like this, listen here
Oh beautiful, for spacious skies
For amber waves of grain
For purple mountain majesties
Above the fruited plain
But now wait a minute, I'm talking about
America, sweet America
You know, God done shed his grace on thee
He crowned thy good, yes he did, in brotherhood
From sea to shining sea
You know, I wish I had somebody to help me sing this
(America, America, God shed his grace on thee)
America, I love you America, you see
My God he done shed his grace on thee
And you oughta love him for it
'Cause he, he, he, he crowned thy good
He told me he would, with brotherhood
(From sea to shining Sea)
Oh Lord, oh Lord, I thank you Lord
(Shining sea)
"To Be An American"
WHAT AMERICA MEANS TO ME -Marie O'Flaherty
3/12/2026
When Deb Butterfield asked for volunteers to talk about our favorite quote that promotes
Americanism I jumped at the opportunity because I knew exactly what I wanted to speak about. When President Trump gave his second inaugural address he said something that truly touched my heart. What he said was “America does the impossible best.” I love that quote because it is classic American thinking which I hope we never lose in this country. It is a good reminder to all of us but especially the young people that America is the land of impossible dreams coming true.
I have a personal example of that. I know a young man who is brilliant and has a Ph.D. in engineering. He works as a rocket scientist. From the time he was in high school he wanted to help the U.S. get to Mars first. I once asked him why the U.S. had to get to Mars first and he said because if we don’t, China will and if they get there first, they will colonize it and keep everyone else out.
So now this young man works with a team of other brilliant young American scientists working on the same goal to get America to Mars first. They will do it and the entire world will benefit from it. And that is an example of America doing the impossible best.
WHAT AMERICA MEANS TO ME - Tita Dumagsa
2/12/2026
Whenever the occasion presents itself to introduce myself, I always say, I am a proud Filipino by birth but a grateful American by choice. In my early 20s, I took a leap of faith to pursue the American Dream armed only with one suitcase and a fierce determination to succeed. America indeed was the land of opportunity where I enjoyed very successful careers not only in my profession of Dietetics in Management positions, but also careers in academe at the university level after completing a Master’s Degree, short of a thesis; became a successful restaurant entrepreneur and finally as a Human Resources Executive with United Airlines. Life in America is a GIFT and I will always be deeply thankful for all the incredible blessings and so many acts of kindness I have received in my journey. With God’s help and with firm resolve, I will always try my best to find ways to give back and make a difference. This is what America means to me and this is why I love America.
