Labor Day

Happy Labor Day!   Yes, I know even though Labor Day is an American federal holiday observed on the first Monday in September that celebrates the economic and social contributions of workers ----- there are lots of people who have to work on Labor Day ----- and ------ we especially salute those who have to work! 

Okay a little history, some facts ----- In 1882, Matthew Maguire, a machinist who also was serving as secretary of the CLU (Central Labor Union) of New York.  And of course others argue that it was first proposed by Peter J. McGuire of the American Federation of Labor in May, 1882 based on the annual labor festival held in Toronto, Canada. 

Either way, Oregon was the first state to make it a holiday in 1887, it became a federal holiday in 1894 and thirty states officially celebrated Labor Day.  The United State Congress unanimously voted to approve rush legislation that made Labor Day a national holiday after the deaths of a number of workers during the Pullman Strike. 

Current Labor Day pays tribute to the contributions and achievement of American workers.  It also symbolizes the end of summer for many Americans, and is celebrated with parties, parades and athletic events and of course store sales!!!