Community Corner
Honoring Our Freedom Defenders on Memorial Day
Whether your celebration is indoors or outdoors, we've got you covered with easy menus.
The origin of the holiday we have come to know as Memorial Day, has roots that go back to the Civil War. The town of Waterloo, NY, is credited with the start of this wonderful tribute to our fallen soldiers. On May 5, 1866, all the shops in the town closed so the graves of the fallen could be decorated. On May 30, 1868, the holiday became known as Decoration Day. At the end of the century, Decoration Day became Memorial Day. In 1971 it was declared a national holiday and the date was changed from May 30 to the fourth Monday in May so federal workers could have a three day holiday.
Memorial Day weekend is also the official kick-off of summer. The significance of the start of summer is probably lost on most of us who have already seen the mercury rise to 90 degrees and above for several days. Nonetheless, other parts of the country are thinking summer is just getting started.
If you are planning an indoor meal as part of your Memorial Day celebration, here's an easy menu that showcases a rib recipe that you can stick in the oven and not have to worry about it for 3 hours. It also takes advantage of fresh tomatoes and cucumbers that are abundant this year.
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Find out what's happening in Bloomingdale-Riverviewwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
For outdoor celebrations, what could be easier than dishes that can be prepared on the grill? I've included a bread and dessert that are easily transported and will hold up to the heat. Remember, it's been summer in Central Florida for several weeks now.
We would like to salute and honor all of our fallen heroes. To the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice, may God bless you.
Enjoy your Memorial Day celebration. Don't forget to have plenty of ice cold beverages handy!
