by Tammy Weisberger

Some holidays find their beginnings in religion, others celebrate an important historical person, and still others celebrate a particular day or world culture. Memorial Day stands alone as a holiday that rose out of American soil in appreciation and remembrance of every person who gave their lives defending the United States. Although the holiday was officially proclaimed in 1868 by General John Logan, the official recognition does not mark the holiday’s true beginnings. No one person or place can be credited with originating Memorial Day because many, many towns and communities were dedicating time to decorate the graves of American soldiers and arranging gatherings in remembrance of our nation’s heroes well before Memorial Day was officially declared.

The Barbeque Season Starts
There could be no more fitting way to celebrate Memorial Day (the official kick-off for Barbeque Season) than with a cookout! Spend the afternoon hanging around the food table at your house, backyard or friend’s houses. So get ready to warm up the coals, pull out the cooler, and toss some inventive summer salads!
Go Ahead, Take a Day Off
You don’t want to do anything too straining for this year’s Memorial holiday. Relaxing in the yard, reading a good book, and (of course) eating delicious foods is likely just about the most you can handle. Our staff of recipe experts have selected an array of barbeque recipes that will help make the most out of your day off.

Recipes

Veggies
• Southwestern Roasted Corn Salad
• Grilled Asparagus
• Grilled Potatoes and Onion

Meat
• Asian Beef Skewers
• Pineapple Chicken Tenders
• Savory Garlic Marinated Steaks

Seafood
• Morgan's Grilled Fish
• Basil Shrimp
• Barbecue Halibut Steaks

Dessert
• Scrumptious Strawberry Shortcake
• Fruit Pizza
• Rainbow Sherbet Cake
• Grilled Peaches