Inauguration

If we do not hang together, we shall surely hang separately. 
Benjamin Franklin
Peace is not merely a distant goal that we seek, but a means by which we arrive at that goal. 

Martin Luther King

What better day than the Inauguration to remember the words of Benjamin Franklin, one of  the Founding Fathers of America and Martin Luther King, social activist.
It truly was an impressive sight today just watching on TV the huge crowd that had gathered to witness the Inauguration of the President's second term. The theme for all the speeches appeared to be one of unity, diversity and collective effort. 

The words of inaugural poet Richard Blanco were quite stirring. He now joins the exclusive club of inaugural poets such as Robert Frost and Maya Angelou. Blanco is the youngest inaugural poet and first Cuban American poet. His poem One Day reflected his immigrant experiences as well as hopes and dreams for America.I am hoping this poem will be published so everyone who did not hear it will have a chance to read his powerful words.   

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Adapted from BHG Ultimate Casseroles publication

Cook's notes: This warm casserole is much needed today since we are in sub-zero temperatures.

Cheese and Vegetable Rice Casserole

Ingredients:

• 2 cups diced fresh broccoli
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup frozen corn thawed
• 1 package Vigo Saffron Yellow Rice cooked
• 1 can black beans rinsed and drained
• 1 jar of roasted sweet red pepper drained, and chopped or use ½ diced red pepper
• 1- 4 oz. can diced green chile pepper drained
• 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1-1/4 cups low salt chicken broth
• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with 1-1/2 TB melted butter
• optional spices ¼ tsp. cumin and ½ tsp. chili powder

Directions:

• Preheat oven to 350 and grease a casserole dish
• Cook rice as directed on package and set aside
• In a large bowl add vegetables, beans, onions, red peppers, chile peppers or spices, cooked rice, 1 cup of the mixed cheeses and broth
• Mix well and place in casserole dish
• Add rest of mixed cheeses and sprinkle with bread crumbs mixed with melted butter and 1 TB parsley flakes
• Bake uncovered 35 minutes until mixture is heated through and crumbs are golden
• Let stand 10 minutes before serving