“No work is insignificant. All labor that uplifts humanity has dignity and importance and should be undertaken with painstaking excellence.” – Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
In 1889, Connecticut joined a growing number of states in an official salute to the American worker by designating the first Monday in September as Labor Day. Connecticut’s first official Labor Day celebration received lackluster reviews from keynote speaker, Edward King, a trade union activist, and a member of the New York City Central Labor Union. A parade of workers in the capital city that September 2 commenced an hour late, and drew, according to King, a disappointing turnout of men to march through the streets.
1889 and 2020 have a common bond when it comes to the celebration of Labor Day. This year’s September 7 observance, coming as the country continues to grapple with the Covid-19 pandemic, will be a disappointment to a lot of folks due to the cancellation of traditional events.
But rather than pout or mope about, why not focus on what hasn’t been canceled or closed? And topping that list are drive-in movie theaters and “pop up” drive-ins across the state. In fact, this time-honored form of entertainment has made a comeback this year as a safe, socially distanced form of leisure. Check out Laurie Rein’s compilation of drive-in theater info on Mommy Poppins’ Get More Out of Connecticut with Kids site.
Then, gather the family and head out to one of Connecticut’s locally owned farms or orchards for some pick-your-own fruit time.
Silverman’s Farm offers a total farm experience including in-season fruit, cheese, and fresh-baked goodies, seven days a week. Their Animal Farm provides an opportunity to see, pet, and feed unusual animals, including buffalo, llamas, alpacas, sheep, goats, fallow deer, emus, and long-horn cattle. Visit the website for specific Covid-19 safety precautions and fruit availability.
Providing nearly 100 varieties of commercially-grown fruits, Lyman Orchards delivers a favorite day in the country. Their golf courses offer championship-level play on some of the best golf courses in the state. Contact them for Covid-19 safety information and fruit availability.
It’s Grill Time
What would Labor Day weekend be without a home-grilled meal? In addition to the burgers and hotdogs, grill up some of Connecticut’s delicious pears for an exceptional finish to your holiday meal.
- 4 whole pears
- 1 tablespoon neutral-flavored oil OR butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste (optional)
Instructions:
- Cut the pears in half lengthwise; scoop out seeds with a melon baller. Drizzle the cut side with oil/butter using a pastry brush.
- Place the pears, cut-side down, on a clean, well-oiled grill grate, heated to medium-high heat. Cover and cook until grill-marked, heated through, and tender, about 10 minutes, longer for a softer fruit. Turn to grill mark the other side.
- Sprinkle with brown sugar (optional) or salt and pepper if using as a side dish.
- Serve hot or warm, as a side dish, or a dessert with ice cream or whipped cream.
The A. R. Mazzotta team salutes the hard work and dedication of employees across the great state of Connecticut. Remember, we’re here for you, real people providing real solutions to all your staffing needs! Call or text us today to connect with a live person.