I was working from home today and ran over to the grocery store during my lunch break to pick up a few things and did an impulse buy of the January Cooking Light magazine. This was naturally motivated in part by my recent joining of Weight Watchers and resolution to lose some weight in 2008.
In any case, there was an article in this issue which caught my attention called “Dinner Day.” Apparently, on 23 October 2002, the Pennsylvania State Senate declared the second Saturday in January of each year an official holiday called “Invite A Neighbor To Dinner Day.” Apparently “Dinner Day” was born from the smoldering ashes of the events of 9/11. After reading up a little on the day from the official website, I have to admit I don’t know why this holiday should be limited to Pennsylvania but feel this should be adopted as a National holiday.
The resolution reads as follows:
“Whereas, Following the events of September 11, 2001, average Americans have sought ways to make a difference; and
Whereas, In times of trouble, Americans have traditionally displayed a kind heart and open door for their neighbors; and
Whereas, An effective means of celebrating American values to get to know or mend fences with one’s neighbors; therefore be it
Resolved, That the Senate proclaim the second Saturday of January of each year to be “Invite A Neighbor to Dinner Day” as a celebration of the values our country is built upon and a way to foster understanding, compassion and tolerance within our neighborhoods.”
Right on PA! Of course I lived in Pennsylvania in 2003 when the first “Invite A Neighbor To Dinner Day” was celebrated. I moved back and was here for Dinner Day in 2006 and 2007, but this is the first time I’ve heard of it.
The Cooking Light article discusses the background of the holiday and also suggests a menu consisting of: Edamole with crudites, Winter Minestrone, Bitter Greens Salad, Lemon Chicken with Ginger and Pine Nuts OR Chile-Brined Roasted Pork Loin, Baked Pommes Frites OR Turnip Gruyere Gratin, complimented with a glass of Chardonnay and topped off with a dessert of Apple Upside-Down Cake OR Butter Rum Pound Cake with tea and/or coffee. Yum – I wonder how many Weight Watchers points all that would be?
This year Dinner Day falls on January 12th which is only 3 days from now which is pretty short notice for inviting someone over, nevertheless, I will try. How could anyone not want to celebrate such a cool little holiday? Party on.
