One day last week, a co-worker told me Labor Day was almost upon us. I said, ‘no it’s not.’ I was sure it couldn’t be.
I was wrong. Labor Day weekend is this weekend.
How did that happen? Seems like it was just Memorial Day and I was looking forward to my family’s beach vacation in June.
Like Memorial Day and July 4, Labor Day always seems to be a good day for families and friends to gather for picnics and cookouts.
The federal holiday is always the first Monday of September to recognize the labor movement in the United States, as well as the contributions of laborers around the country.
While many of us are off next Monday, there are still others who must work to keep things moving.
Whether we just relax at home, head to a neighbors’ for a gathering or go out for a family dinner, we should be sure to take a few minutes to thank those working this holiday.
The nurses, doctors and others making sure hospital patients are improving.
The medical staff at urgent care centers who will see and treat walk-ins.
The paramedics and emergency technicians who will make the rounds treating and/or transporting those who need it to an area hospital.
The law enforcement officers who will patrol the city and county, keeping the rest of us safe.
All branches of the military who do that same thing daily — though their patrols take in many more areas.
Wait staff at area restaurants and bars who put on a smile and serve you a good meal or couple of drinks.
Convenience store workers who make it possible for you to run in and grab a snack and soft drink while filling your gas tank.
Retail workers who may help you find a new pair of jeans or shoes.
I’m likely forgetting some segment of workers — so thank you all for doing your job on a day that many of us won’t have to.
Pam Queen is editor of The Dominion Post. Contact her with comments and suggestions at Editor@DominionPost.com.