Williston Observer

By Ginger Isham

Barbecuing, Hawaiian style

With the July Fourth holiday just around the corner, barbecues will be popular with family and friends. Here are a couple Hawaiian chicken recipes for the grill.

Huli Huli Chicken

(“Huli huli” means, “rotisserie” or “turn over turn over”)

Marinade No. 2

Marinate 4 or 5 chicken breast halves (cut in half again in lengths or chunks) or use other chicken parts in Marinade No. 1.

1/3 cup ketchup

1/3 cup soy sauce

1/2 cup brown sugar (I use 1/3 cup dark maple syrup)

3 tablespoons sherry (you can also use a red wine vinegar)

1 piece of fresh ginger, chopped (I sometimes use powdered ginger)

1 clove garlic, chopped

Combine all ingredients in a plastic bag and add chicken pieces. Shake and set in fridge for several hours. Bake 6 inches from oven broiler, 8 to 10 minutes for each side, basting a couple times with marinade. Or cook on outdoor grill.

Marinade No. 2

1/2 cup frozen pineapple juice concentrate

1/2 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup ketchup

2 cloves garlic, chopped

3 tablespoons brown sugar (or maple syrup)

1 piece of fresh ginger (a finger-sized knob)

Combine all ingredients in a plastic bag and add chicken pieces. Follow directions in previous recipe.

Honolulu Chicken

8 chicken breast halves

1/2 teaspoon pepper

dash of salt

1/4 cup flour

1 1/2 cups peach preserves

1/2 cup barbecue sauce

1/2 cup onion, chopped

2 tablespoons soy sauce

1 large green pepper, sliced into strips

Combine flour, pepper and salt in bowl. Coat chicken breasts with flour mix and brown in small amount of oil. Place chicken in a 9-by-13-inch oiled baking dish. Combine remaining ingredients, except green pepper strips. Pour this over the chicken and place pepper strips over the chicken breasts. Bake at 375 degrees for about 1 hour and 10 minutes. This wonderfully flavored chicken is good served with rice.

Ginger Isham was the co-owner of Maple Grove Farm Bed & Breakfast in Williston, a fifth generation family farm on Oak Hill Road where she still lives.

 

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A historical look at the Fourth of July

June 25, 2009

By Steve Mount

As a young boy, I remember quite well the trips that I, my siblings and cousins would all take to the fireworks stands that sprouted up all around Los Angeles and Orange counties, Calif. in late June. July 4 was not only a celebration of our nation’s birth, but of my grandfather’s, too. We would buy some fireworks to celebrate each. On the night of the Fourth, the entire block would close down as families set off all sorts of pyrotechnics to honor the nation and my grandfather.

As an early teen, my family celebrated a private Fourth of July. We lived in Canada, and the big July celebration there, July 1, is for Canada Day. Since we lived in Quebec, the Canada Day celebrations were a bit ironic, since Quebec seemed poised to secede from Canada.

As a full-fledged grown-up, I gained distinct and fond memories of my first Fourth of July in Williston. We came here from Starksboro, a town too small for any extensive July Fourth celebrations. Coming to Williston, with its magnificent parade, daylong family activities, cacophonous book sale and glorious fireworks show, I suddenly had something to look forward to, like those youthful days in California.

It’s worth taking a few moments to remember what the fuss is all about, and to realize that if not for the work of some very dedicated men, we might not be celebrating at all. In early 1776, the case for independence had not yet been forcefully made. Compromise with Britain, and seats in Parliament, were seen by many as the better way to go.

A relatively short pamphlet, “Common Sense” by Thomas Paine, finally made a convincing argument for independence, and the opinion of the populace and the Congress began to change.

On June 7, 1776, Richard Henry Lee, delegate from Virginia, formally brought the arguments in “Common Sense” to the Second Continental Congress. He proposed both a declaration of independence and a union of the colonies. A committee was formed to craft a document. The committee included Thomas Jefferson, John Adams and Benjamin Franklin. Jefferson was assigned by the committee to write the declaration, which he completed in just a few days.

Jefferson’s first draft was edited by Franklin, then forwarded on to the Congress, which toned down some of Jefferson’s most inflammatory language. In the end, the Declaration of Independence listed almost 30 grievances against the king, called for independence and unification, and told the people of Britain that the quarrel of the United States was with the king, and not with them.

The document was accepted by the Congress on July 4, 1776, though not until Aug. 2, 1776 was the Declaration actually signed.

Though the new United States was still at war in 1777, history records several small-scale celebrations in honor of the first anniversary, including several 13-gun salutes. In Philadelphia, official dinners and celebrations were held along with prayers, parades and fireworks. In 1778, Gen. George Washington ordered a double ration of rum for the troops.

By the turn of the 19th century, fireworks were becoming more and more common, as were formal celebrations of the day at the White House. Parades, military revues, bands, songs, plays, poems, anthems and ballet were all performed to celebrate the date.

In 1870, July 4 was designated a day off, without pay, for federal workers; in 1938, the law was changed to give the day off with pay. In 1998, Congress designated the days between Flag Day and Independence Day as “Honor America Days.”

Many notable events have been scheduled to happen on July 4, including temperance and anti-slavery speeches, the laying of cornerstones (of the Washington Monument, for one) and the christening of ships. In recent memory, the July 4’s of 1976, the nation’s bicentennial year, and 2002, the first following the Sept. 11 attacks, were notable for the proud displays of patriotism from the citizenry.

The Fourth of July is a uniquely American holiday, and we celebrate it in a uniquely American way. At some point before the holiday, to celebrate the 233rd year of the American Republic, take a few minutes and read the Declaration of Independence; refresh your memory about what the fireworks, barbecue and camaraderie are all about.

Steve Mount has been a Williston resident since 1996. He is a software engineer at GE Healthcare and is devoted to his family, his country and his Constitution. You can reach Steve at [email protected] or read his blog at http://saltyrain.com/ls.

 

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The Fourth of July: Celebrating America

June 25, 2009

By Mike Benevento

For those old enough to remember, back in 1974, Chevy ran an extremely effective television advertising campaign centering on the song “Baseball, Hot Dogs, Apple Pie and Chevrolet.” As one of the all-time top car commercials, the ad campaign succeeded because the jingle was synonymous with what was best in 1970s America.

Today, these American symbols are experiencing hard times. Performance enhancing drug use by baseball superstars like Alex Rodriguez, Manny Ramirez and Barry Bonds has brought shame to the national pastime. Additionally, dieticians frown upon hot dogs because they possess little nutritional value, making them somewhat unhealthy to eat. Finally, the federal government is bailing out General Motors — which sells Chevy trucks and vans. Chevrolet is now part of what many call “Government Motors.”

Despite the fall of these once mighty icons, there remains a lot to celebrate in America. For starters, mom’s apple pie is still as good as it gets.

With Independence Day nearing, let’s take a small peek at some of what keeps America great. Consider it as four slices of good old American apple pie. Don’t forget to savor every morsel and come back for seconds ….

First slice: Adam Bender

Last year, 8-year-old Adam Bender became an American hero via the Internet. A child playing sports at Adam’s age is not unusual. However, everyone who watches Adam play sports and live life is impressed. Adam is inspirational because he plays baseball, soccer, football and wrestles — with only one leg.

The cancer survivor from Lexington, Ky. was born with a tumor in his left thigh. After chemotherapy failed, doctors amputated Adam’s leg on his first birthday. That setback did not deter him. He quickly started crawling and now plays two of the most difficult positions in sports. The youngster is a Little League baseball catcher and a flag football quarterback — without the aid of prostheses.

Watch Adam in action and you can tell that he considers himself just one of the kids. To others, however, he is much more than that. He embodies the American spirit. By not letting his loss of a leg stop him, Adam motivates others to overcome their problems. He is truly inspirational.

If you would like to learn more about Adam, including watching videos of him playing ball, check out his homepage at AdamBender.net. You can also search for “Adam Bender” at YouTube.com. Warning: keep tissues handy!

Second slice: foster parents

Today, with so many shattered families and difficult financial times, foster parents play an increasingly important role in raising children. These unsung heroes provide a loving and nurturing home to approximately 1,200 Vermont children. Although it is a difficult job, foster parents help children and parents rebuild broken lives.

Two years ago, the Vermont Legislature recognized the importance of foster parents (like Williston’s Theresa Tomasi) by adopting Resolution 205 — Honoring the Role of Foster Parents. Following the Legislature’s lead, Vermonters should honor and support foster parents. They provide one of the world’s most important jobs — being a parent — under trying circumstances.

Third slice: Williston’s Medal of Honor recipient

The Congressional Medal of Honor is America’s highest military award. Since 1861, 3,446 military personnel have earned the medal — the majority posthumously. Ironically, only 10 medals were earned on the Fourth of July, none by a Vermonter.

According to the Home Of Heroes Web site, 47 Medals of Honor have been accredited to Vermont. Of these, only one recipient was from Williston — Edward A. Holton.

On April 16, 1862, 1st Sgt. Edward Holton earned the decoration for his extraordinary gallantry and exemplary valor during the Civil War Battle of Lee’s Mills. As recorded by the History of War Web site, two Vermont regiments of Union soldiers attacked parts of eight Confederate regiments near Yorktown, Va. Fighting against heavy odds, the Union attack failed and was pushed back across the Warwick River.

First Sgt. Holton’s citation reads, “Rescued the colors of his regiment under heavy fire, the color bearer having been shot down while the troops were in retreat.”

Final slice: Take me out to the ballgame

Back in the old days, towns all across the United States sponsored a hometown baseball team. On Sundays, townsfolk gathered on the village green to root for their team in a match against rival towns.

Harkening back to the old days, everyone is invited to attend Williston’s second annual Fourth of July Little League Baseball game. The game starts at 2 p.m. at the majors’ field behind Williston Central School. For an enjoyable time, bring a chair and watch Williston’s version of this time-honored tradition.

Michael Benevento is a former Air Force fighter jet weapon systems officer. He has a bachelor’s degree in Military History and a master’s in International Relations. Mike resides in Williston with his wife Kristine and their two sons, Matthew and Calvin.

 

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June 25, 2009

Support the Williston Food Shelf

This Fourth of July, many Williston residents will commemorate our independence by watching the parade, then barbecuing with neighbors and friends. Much that we take for granted is becoming impossible for a rapidly increasing number of families in our current economic climate. The over 100 volunteers who staff the Williston Community Food Shelf are asking for your support this Fourth to ensure those in need will always have some place to turn.

During the parade, we will have a fire engine or other vehicle flanked by red-shirted volunteers accepting donations of money or food. Food items we need are pasta, pasta sauce, peanut butter and jelly, but our most pressing need is financial to meet our annual expenses. Volunteers will carry donation buckets; please step forward as they pass to offer donations.

Opened in November 2008, our initial goal was to feed 35 families. We fed 76 in the first month and 110 in May. The dramatic increase in working families, unemployed and disabled visiting us has presented a challenge to continue at current levels. We also assist the Chittenden Emergency Food Shelf in Burlington, Vermont Respite House and Joint Urban Ministry Project, and we fill the summer void as our schools have closed, supporting the Summer Program for Kids, in which each child receives 10 meals per week.

Our monthly food budget is $1,000, yet we spent $1,600 in May. We also recently incurred a monthly rental fee of $250, while philanthropic donations have decreased.

Our longer-range goals include installing telephone and Internet service, increasing the type and quantity of food available and, lastly, we hope to partner with Williston businesses and individuals willing to adopt the Food Shelf. Perhaps your business would join us by sponsoring an annual month or half a month of food purchases, rent or telephone and Internet service. Interested organizations, individuals or families should contact Ron Stankevich at 879-7092 or stop by the Food Shelf, located on Connor Way, between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Thursday or Saturday.

Have a safe and happy Fourth and thank you for your generosity during the parade.

Williston Community Food Shelf Board

 

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See you later, alligator — I hope

June 25, 2009

By Edwin Cooney

For two weeks and three days now, I’ve been meeting or revisiting some really special people who live everywhere throughout America except where I live.

As I rode the rails eastward between Oakland, Calif. and Buffalo, N.Y., I met Patti — a temporarily wheelchair-ridden lady from Elko, Nev. Patti runs a safe haven for stray animals looking for a home. Even more incredible, she’s about to marry her husband for the second time. A very dynamic individual, Patti devoutly believes in second chances. She divorced her husband some years ago and wants to be with him once again almost as much as she wants to walk following the motorcycle accident which five years ago destroyed both knees and severely damaged her back. Her recovery has been an exceedingly slow and painful one. This July, she’ll undergo surgery to replace both knees at once. She hopes to discard her wheelchair by mid September — just in time to remarry the man she once thought she could do without. It’s not likely that I’ll see Patti again, but it would be a treat to have that opportunity.

Then there’s Denny from Erie, Pa., a truck driver looking forward to coming off the road so that he might spend more time with his wife and son. Denny is an excellent conversationalist in part because he’s as good a listener as he is a talker. Deeply devoted to his family, Denny has a wide range of interests and is especially curious to know how people think and feel as well as what they care about.

Many of those I meet I expect to see again, especially those I have known for awhile.

For openers, there’s the lady I call my mother who we all hope will turn 100 on Jan. 1, 2010. Edith Gassman has been blessed enough to see many seasons. She’s lived during the administrations of 18 U.S. presidents going back to William Howard Taft. Edith, however, often opines that too many worthy people don’t live nearly long enough.

Then there’s a really sweet lady named Joanie whose family is hoping and praying — as am I — that her upcoming cancer surgery will allow her at least five more happy years. Joanie’s sister Barbara is someone I’ve known since I was a lad of 11. Joanie, although I don’t know her as well, has been sweet and generous to me. I hope to see her again next year and as many times in the coming summers as humanly and medically possible.

It has been my experience that ongoing contact too often causes us to take those around us for granted. However, as I prepare to return to my California diggings, I’m keenly aware of the preciousness of those with whom my contact has been all too fleeting.

As these sentiments go to press and I begin my trek westward along steel rails, I’ll offer heartfelt telepathic greetings to people such as the following: my dear friends Chet and his wife “Lady Linda,” who are both thoughtful and intellectually energizing; Judy Joy, whose middle name is a commentary on what she brings to others; dutiful Jan, whose intensity and sincerity is matched by few; unpredictable Kathlyn, whom I’ll always treasure; my pal Paul, who makes me feel good just by saying hello; Barbara, whose passions bubble like the finest champagne; Bob, who watches out for me but doesn’t want me to know it; and Roe, who cares more than she should which causes me to feel humblingly grateful.

The people I’ve mentioned above are only the beginning of a list of those who matter to me. That which is fleeting (the time I shared with them and others) is of value by virtue of its brevity. However, what really matters is the opportunity to experience people of quality for whatever time there may be.

Fifty-three years have passed since Bill Haley and the Comets sang out “See Ya Later Alligator.” Haley’s “goodbye” was to a spurning lover. My expression of that silly salutation expresses the hope that I may have the good fortune to encounter this gang of wonderful alligators many more times to come.

Edwin Cooney is a national political and historical columnist.

 

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