Remember to Remember The parade of picnics and scent of hot Italian sausage on the grill threatens each year to obscure the meaning of Memorial Day. We've stretched this solemn ceremony into a three day holiday that signifies the start of summer.
Originally known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day originated right after the Civil War. The picnics where families gathered to mourn their many losses in crowded cemeteries may be the precursor to today's ubiquitous "potluck" suppers, which have morphed into barbecues and cookouts. So sharing picnic fare on this weekend is actually steeped in tradition.
But as we pull out the white pants and sandals which we can now wear with impunity, let's also pause to remember the men and women who have died while serving our country. A very good place to do this is at the Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park on Canalside.
Click here for Memorial Day tours, ceremonies, concerts and parades--even a bike ride (and find out how Marti Gorman plans to spend Memorial Day this year). |