Here we are - Labor Day 2012.
This is traditionally the end of summer, the start of the school year, a great time for retail sales, the beginning of the NFL and college football seasons, and in some societies it is the last day when it is OK to wear white. I think, much more importantly, it is a time to celebrate the contributions of the American worker.
This last week I had an appointment in an office where they were having a problem with plumbing. This stimulated a conversation about trades people and whether or not our younger generations consider the trades as important occupations. It was kind of a coincidence we were having that conversation during the period we are celebrating Labor Day. As the older trades people move on or retire do we have replacements for their respective trades? I suspect we could be facing a shortage of people who actually work with their hands and are employed to fix "things" for our communities, homes, businesses and manufacturers.
It is important we understand how vital it is to have carpenters, plumbers, electricians, welders, mechanics, appliance repair and any activities that involve the quality of life we are used to here in the United States. While all jobs and work is important we need to appreciate the work done by those who have chosen the trades as a career - without these people life would not be what it is today. On Labor Day we need to take a step back and reflect on the importance of these people. Their work is not only important but essential.
Certainly retailers and small businesses fall into this work category. As far as some retailers are concerned, Labor Day has become one of the most important sale date of the year, being second only to Black Friday during the Christmas season. Because of the importance of the Labor Day sale weekend many employed in retail work longer hours to accommodate sales activity. It is reported more Americans work in the retail industry than any other, with retail employment making up 24 percent of all jobs in the United States.
Jamestown and Chautauqua County have a real stake in those who provide the labor that drives our trades, businesses, agriculture and industry. As we gather today for parties, picnics and celebrations we need to take, at least a short moment, and reflect on the importance of those who make up our labor force. These people really make all of what we do possible. We must remember our labor force is important and provides not only financial rewards but ability to enhance our own life style, as well as the life style of everyone around us. We here at DJDC would ask you take a moment and think about how important our labor force is and what it does for all of us.
And speaking of our labor force, we would like to thank everyone who helped make our Jamestown Farmers Market Community Day a huge success. DJDC staff and volunteers worked very hard, in conjunction with city departments, to make this event successful. We were showcasing our agriculture, along with the goal of healthy living for our youth and adults alike. Thanks to you all.
Source: Labor Day - Wikipedia.