Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day. It is a federal holiday in the United States for mourning the U.S. military personnel who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. It is recognized and observed on the last Monday of May. From 1868 to 1970 it was observed on May 30.
Many people visit cemeteries and memorials on this day to honor and mourn those who died while serving in the U.S. military. Many people place a U.S. flag on graves of military personnel. Some consider Memorial Day as the unofficial start of summer.
It was in 1868 that General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic called for a “Decoration Day”. By 1890, every Northern state had adopted it as a holiday. The World Wars turned it into a day of remembrance. In 1971, Congress standardized the holiday as “Memorial Day” and changed its observance to the last Monday in May.
Two other days celebrate those who have served or are serving in the U.S. military: Armed Forces Day which is earlier in May and Veterans Day on November 11.
Bike to Work Day
Bike to Work Day was originated by the League of American Bicyclists in 1956 and is a part of Bike-to-Work Week, which is in turn part of National Bike Month.
Bike to Work Day is an annual event that promotes the bicycle as a form of transportation to and from work. It is held in the Spring in many locations including the United States, Canada, Europe and Asia.
Leading up to Bike to Work Day, national, regional, and local bicycle advocacy groups encourage people to commute by bicycle as a healthy and safe alternative to driving. The American Medical Association has endorsed Bike to Work Day as part of a push to encourage active transportation.
Bike Week is the week that includes the Bike-to-Work Day, in May, and the World Bicycle Day, on June 3.
World Baking Day
January is National Baking Month, however, since 2012, World Baking Day has been observed on the May 17. The original intent of the day was to make and give away a homemade cake. The day has since evolved into baking and giving away all kinds of baked goods.
Bonnie Butter Cake
By Angela (Grammy) Derby
CAKE INGREDIENTS
2/3 cup butter, softened
1-3/4 cups sugar
3 eggs
1-1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
2-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
2-1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1-1/4 cups whole milk
FRENCH SILK FROSTING
2-2/3 cups confectioners’ sugar
2/3 cup butter, softened
2 ounces melted unsweetened chocolate (cooled)
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 Tablespoons milk
DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 350′ F. Grease and flour baking pan, 13 x 9 x 2″ or two 9″ or three 8″ round pans.
In large mixing bowl, beat butter, sugar, eggs and vanilla until fluffy. Continue beating for 5 minutes on high speed, scraping bowl occasionally.
Combine flour, baking powder and salt in a separate bowl; add to butter mixture alternately with milk. Pour into pans.
Bake oblong for 45-50 minutes, layers 30-35 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool.
Frost with French Silk Frosting or your favorite chocolate frosting recipe.
In small mixer bowl, blend sugar, butter, chocolate and vanilla on low speed. Gradually add milk; beat until smooth and fluffy. Makes enough frosting for two 9″ layers or three 8″ layers.
Variation: This cake is also delicious with a lemon frosting.
New Windows for the Long House!
The Nause-Waiwash Band of Indians are proud to announce the installation of new windows in the long house. Yes! Progress in the works. The renovations are coming along. Thank you Richy Knox and Knox Builders. A job well done!
In 2014, newly elected Chief Wolf Mother set the goal to renovate the long house. We had electric run from the pole to the building. Thank you Choptank Electric. Then wiring was roughed-in inside the building. Thank you Gentle Bear. In 2018 our long house was added to the National Registry of Historic Landmarks. Thank you, Dr. Jeff Kirwin.
Although it would be impressive to restore the building to its original form, maintenance wise, it is not practical. In March of 2020 a new roof was installed. The cedar shakes were replaced with modern shingles. The original windows were in need of scraping, painting and glazing. They were replaced on April 29, 2022 with vinyl windows with minimal upkeep.
Next up, paint!

