On this Labor Day, many of us will take some time to cheer on our friends and neighbors during the annual Labor Day Parade in Ishpeming, and get together with family for a Monday afternoon barbecue, weather permitting.

This is a unique national holiday in that it celebrates the accomplishments of many – the real, day-by-day work that goes into keeping this country running, and running at the top of the pack.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the first Labor Day was celebrated Tuesday, Sept. 5, 1882 in New York City, in accordance with the plans of the Central Labor Union. It was created to exhibit to the public “the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations” of the community.

In 1894, Sen. James Henderson Kyle of South Dakota introduced a bill to make Labor Day a legal holiday on the first Monday of September each year.

Since then, it has been a day to celebrate the many accomplishments and economic achievements the labor force in America has been responsible for.

It’s no doubt this nation has the most productive work force contributing to the greatest standard of living in the world.

Often accompanied by speeches from prominent labor groups, local celebrations highlight the daily lives of the people we know.

It’s fitting that we should take a day off to celebrate that hard work. So sit back, relax and enjoy the day, workers of the central Upper Peninsula.

You’ve certainly earned it.