Monday, Sept. 4, marks Labor Day. For most people, it is a day off from work. It also heralds the unofficial end of summer and will be marked with parades and family gatherings. Oyster Bay Town Supervisor John Venditto reminds residents that in the midst of all the enjoyment, they should not forget the true significance of Labor Day.

"The first Labor Day parade was held in New York City on Tuesday, Sept. 5, 1882, under the auspices of the Central Labor Union," Venditto stated. "More a demonstration for the eight-hour day than a celebration of social and economic achievements of labor as the holiday is today, the parade attracted an estimated 20,000 marchers. Some carried banners that read: "Labor Creates All Wealth" and "Eight Hours for Work, Eight Hours for Rest, Eight Hours for Recreation." Participants sacrificed a day's pay in order to march.

"In those days, many people worked six, even seven, days a week, and holidays were few and far between. The Central Labor Union seized upon the idea to make Labor Day a permanent 'workingman's holiday' and urged similar organizations to follow its example. The idea spread with the growth of labor organizations, and, by 1885, Labor Day was celebrated in many industrial centers of the country. In 1887, Oregon became the first state to grant legal holiday status to Labor Day and, one by one, other states followed suit. In 1894, Congress passed an act designating the first Monday in September as a federal holiday. The establishment of a special day to honor labor made a statement to the world about how America reveres working men and women and their roles in our society.

"The dynamic and vital force of American labor has contributed tremendously to the highest standard of living and the greatest production of quality goods and services the world has ever known," Venditto said. "The men and women who comprise our labor force are, collectively, one of the hardest working and highest producing groups to be found anywhere. Their products and services are an essential part of our everyday lives.

"Here in the Town of Oyster Bay, we have always recognized the importance of our labor force. I am proud to say that Oyster Bay Town government has one of the best work forces to be found anywhere. From office personnel to sanitation, parks and highway crews, the level of dedication and competence is outstanding.

"Labor is alive and well in the Town of Oyster Bay a fact that is reflected in our low unemployment rate," Venditto commented. "On Labor Day, let's all join in saluting the dedicated men and women who, through the years, helped make our town the outstanding community it is today and those who, today, continue to make major contributions to our high standard of living and to the well-being of all our residents. And let's show our support by using products and services produced in America by American workers."