The words "What America Means to Me" overlayed on an image of an American flag with people soft focused in the background with hands over their hearts.

As Mentor proudly joins the nationwide America250 celebration, we’re inviting members of our community including residents, families, students, veterans, and elected officials, to share a personal reflection: What does America mean to you?

Submit a short video (30–90 seconds) expressing your thoughts on American values like freedom, opportunity, community, equality, or personal/family stories tied to the nation. Your voice helps convey the spirit of Mentor and America at this historic milestone!

Sample Questions
Not sure what to say? Here are a few sample questions to inspire your thoughts:

  1. What does freedom/opportunity/community mean to you?
  2. What personal experience or family story makes you proud to be American?
  3. How has America given you (or your loved ones) opportunities?
  4. What American value (e.g., liberty, equality, innovation) resonates most with you today?

Submit Recording
If you wish to record yourself, please follow the instructions provided below:

  • Video resolution must be at least 1280 x 720. MP4 format if possible.
  • Record your video with your phone held horizontally. Vertical videos will be rejected.
  • If you have a microphone, use it and try to keep background noise to minimum. Audio quality will be a determining factor as
  • Keep your message between 30–90 seconds, heartfelt, and positive.
  • No logos, watermarks, titles, or on-screen text. The city will handle editing for an overall unified look.
  • No copyrighted music or commercial backgrounds or messages
  • Submit your video by June 15, 2026, to [email protected]. We can provide you with an upload link if you don’t have access to a file transfer service.

Drop-In Recording
The city will host also drop-in recording sessions BY APPOINTMENT at the Mentor Municipal Center on:

  • Tuesday, May 5, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM
  • Thursday, May 21, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM

To schedule a drop-in recording, contact Communications Officer Ante Logarusic at (440) 974-5794 or [email protected].

Where Your Video Will Be Featured
Selected videos will air on the videoscreens at the Mentor Civic Amphitheater during the city’s Independence Day celebration on July 4, 2026. They’ll also air on the Mentor Channel during the month of July and will be posted to the City’s YouTube channel.

The City of Mentor reserves the right to make final content decisions to ensure appropriateness and alignment with the theme. Join us in reflecting on what unites us as Americans—your story matters!