What is Labor Day? In an attempt to satisfy our own curiosity, we will share what we found.
As the Industrial Revolution took hold of the nation, the average American in the late 1800s worked 12-hour days, seven days a week in order to make a basic living. Children were also working, as they provided cheap labor to employers and laws against child labor were not strongly enforced.
With the long hours and terrible working conditions, American unions became more prominent and voiced their demands for a better way of life. On Tuesday September 5, 1882, 10,000 workers marched from city hall to Union Square in New York City, holding the first-ever Labor Day parade. Participants took an upaid day-off to honor the workers of America, as well as vocalize issues they had with employers. As years passed, more states began to hold these parades, but Congress would not legalize the holiday until 12 years later.
On May 11, 1894, workers of the Pullman Palace Car Company in Chicago struck to protest wage cuts and the firing of union representatives. They sought support from their union led by Eugene V. Debs and on June 26 the American Railroad Union called a boycott of all Pullman railway cars. Within days, 50,000 rail workers complied and railroad traffic out of Chicago came to a halt. On July 4, President Grover Cleveland dispatched troops to Chicago. Much rioting and bloodshed ensued, but the government's actions broke the strike and the boycott soon collapsed. Debs and three other union officials were jailed for disobeying the injunction. The strike brought worker's rights to the public eye and Congress declared, in 1894, that the first Monday in September would be the holiday for workers, known as Labor Day.
The founder of Labor Day remains unclear, but some credit either Peter McGuire, co-founder of the American Federation of Labor, or Matthew Maguire, a secretary of the Central Labor Union, for proposing the holiday.
Although Labor Day is meant as a celebration of the labor movement and its achievements, it has come to be celebrated as the last, long summer weekend before Autumn.
Source: http://www.history.com/content/laborday/labor-history/labor-day-history
Sunday, September 13, 2009
A New Year
By Justin Campbell
Well the new year is upon us. You may be thinking, “It’s September, what is he talking about?” To those of you who believe as I do, you know that football season is primed to start.
A few years ago, I discovered a whole new way to enjoy the NFL season on a whole new level. At first I was reluctant, because a few of the people that I know that play fantasy football get way too into it. After joining a league with one of my friends though, I found out that Sunday becomes a day to get excited about. Most of those that play are just football fans that used to root for just one team, but now watch more than just their favorite team in hopes that their kicker will throw a touchdown pass on a fake field goal. (Thanks Vinatieri)
Fantasy football is where you draft players from different teams to “play” for you each week. For instance, on one of my teams (I only have two) I have a QB, 2 RBs, 2 WRs, a TE, K, and the defense/special teams from and entire NFL team. Generally you have a backup for each position for injuries and bye weeks. If you read this far, I hope you understand the acronyms.
I had one of my drafts already, and if I could give you just one tip, it would be to make sure your internet connection won’t kick you off in the middle of the draft. Another tip I have is to try to find a league with a lot of people you know so it’s more fun to taunt and ridicule the owners of the other teams in your league.
Now I can watch just about any NFL game and I have an interest in who does well. It has enhanced my passion for the game.
Well the new year is upon us. You may be thinking, “It’s September, what is he talking about?” To those of you who believe as I do, you know that football season is primed to start.
A few years ago, I discovered a whole new way to enjoy the NFL season on a whole new level. At first I was reluctant, because a few of the people that I know that play fantasy football get way too into it. After joining a league with one of my friends though, I found out that Sunday becomes a day to get excited about. Most of those that play are just football fans that used to root for just one team, but now watch more than just their favorite team in hopes that their kicker will throw a touchdown pass on a fake field goal. (Thanks Vinatieri)
Fantasy football is where you draft players from different teams to “play” for you each week. For instance, on one of my teams (I only have two) I have a QB, 2 RBs, 2 WRs, a TE, K, and the defense/special teams from and entire NFL team. Generally you have a backup for each position for injuries and bye weeks. If you read this far, I hope you understand the acronyms.
I had one of my drafts already, and if I could give you just one tip, it would be to make sure your internet connection won’t kick you off in the middle of the draft. Another tip I have is to try to find a league with a lot of people you know so it’s more fun to taunt and ridicule the owners of the other teams in your league.
Now I can watch just about any NFL game and I have an interest in who does well. It has enhanced my passion for the game.
Linking History
By Sara Laub
I am extremely interested in the history of our town Gunlock, and was really excited to hear that Gunlock has a history website. Tracie Jessop Davies created the site “to promote the writing, collecting and sharing of Gunlock History for future generations.”
Davies sought me out at the Gunlock parade to have our websites link together, and there is already a link on The Gunlock Informer’s website, http://gunlockhistory.com.
Both of us are interested in stories or histories that people would like to contribute so contact the history website or the Informer and specify how you want your history shared.
I am extremely interested in the history of our town Gunlock, and was really excited to hear that Gunlock has a history website. Tracie Jessop Davies created the site “to promote the writing, collecting and sharing of Gunlock History for future generations.”
Davies sought me out at the Gunlock parade to have our websites link together, and there is already a link on The Gunlock Informer’s website, http://gunlockhistory.com.
Both of us are interested in stories or histories that people would like to contribute so contact the history website or the Informer and specify how you want your history shared.
Linking History
By Sara Laub
I am extremely interested in the history of our town Gunlock, and was really excited to hear that Gunlock has a history website. Tracie Jessop Davies created the site “to promote the writing, collecting and sharing of Gunlock History for future generations.”
Davies sought me out at the Gunlock parade to have our websites link together, and there is already a link on The Gunlock Informer’s website, http://gunlockhistory.com.
Both of us are interested in stories or histories that people would like to contribute so contact the history website or the Informer and specify how you want your history shared.
I am extremely interested in the history of our town Gunlock, and was really excited to hear that Gunlock has a history website. Tracie Jessop Davies created the site “to promote the writing, collecting and sharing of Gunlock History for future generations.”
Davies sought me out at the Gunlock parade to have our websites link together, and there is already a link on The Gunlock Informer’s website, http://gunlockhistory.com.
Both of us are interested in stories or histories that people would like to contribute so contact the history website or the Informer and specify how you want your history shared.
Tips for a Cheaper School Year
By Rachel Campbell
Once again, school has begun much to the dismay of many a child. The only thing more expensive than shopping for school clothes is shopping for school supplies. Do you find yourself with a teenager who wants something as unique as their personality? Of course, but that will cost extra, unless you employ some frugal genius…
Use those extra scrapbook supplies.
Scrapbook cardstock is a wonderful thing. It can be used for matting photos on a page, throwing together a cute gift, or, in this case, help your teenager express their individuality.
Tip #1: Making stylish flash cards.
Whether it be English vocabulary words or a foreign language course, flash cards are helpful studying tools for any age. A standard 12”x12” page will make thirty six 2”x2” flash cards. Use a trendy pattern and the rest is history. 2”x2” a little small for your needs? Make them the size you need.
Tip #2: Use scraps to decorate book covers.
Plain, economical (not to mention recycled) brown paper bag covers can be blinged out to your child’s delight with a few extra scrapbook embellishments or left over scraps. The bag cover is already sturdy and the more flair that is added to it, the stronger it gets. Let your child use their imaginations and creativity to express themselves on their paper bag canvas. One thing is for sure; no one else will have the exact same thing.
Find what can be reused.
Tip #1: Recycle those binders!
Lets face it, every year the average household throws away at least three to five
binders. Sure, some of those binders really are toast, but a few are salvageable. Minor rips and tears can be patched up with a little bit (or a lot) of duct tape, which is rather fashionable right now and it comes in all sizes and colors at your local hardware store.
Tip #2: Resuscitate last years backpack.
Scrap material, beads, ribbon, and thread can all be used to pump new life into a beat up backpack. You may have to man the sewing machine for the major problems, like reattaching that strap, but then let your children do the work. Get a couple of designs off the internet and let them try their hands at embroidery. Does your child like to paint? Supply them with a bottle of fabric paint or permanent markers.
Help them stay organized.
Tip #1: Tile corkboard is your friend.
Many home improvement stores sell inexpensive corkboard tiling. What better way to keep your child organized than to buy one tile for each child? They can decorate it with their names and such, then hang all of them in a well-trafficked area of the house. Post reminders, chores, notes, permission slips and other important papers there so they won’t get lost.
Tip #2: Check out online sources.
Websites like www.marthastewart.com has loads of ideas about your back to school needs. From little tissue holders to stylish, homemade portable art studios, this site can inspire your creative side. For interesting ways to jazz up your clothes and accessories, check out www.threadbanger.com. Most of the projects on this website are easy, chic, and inexpensive. Happy hunting!
Once again, school has begun much to the dismay of many a child. The only thing more expensive than shopping for school clothes is shopping for school supplies. Do you find yourself with a teenager who wants something as unique as their personality? Of course, but that will cost extra, unless you employ some frugal genius…
Use those extra scrapbook supplies.
Scrapbook cardstock is a wonderful thing. It can be used for matting photos on a page, throwing together a cute gift, or, in this case, help your teenager express their individuality.
Tip #1: Making stylish flash cards.
Whether it be English vocabulary words or a foreign language course, flash cards are helpful studying tools for any age. A standard 12”x12” page will make thirty six 2”x2” flash cards. Use a trendy pattern and the rest is history. 2”x2” a little small for your needs? Make them the size you need.
Tip #2: Use scraps to decorate book covers.
Plain, economical (not to mention recycled) brown paper bag covers can be blinged out to your child’s delight with a few extra scrapbook embellishments or left over scraps. The bag cover is already sturdy and the more flair that is added to it, the stronger it gets. Let your child use their imaginations and creativity to express themselves on their paper bag canvas. One thing is for sure; no one else will have the exact same thing.
Find what can be reused.
Tip #1: Recycle those binders!
Lets face it, every year the average household throws away at least three to five
binders. Sure, some of those binders really are toast, but a few are salvageable. Minor rips and tears can be patched up with a little bit (or a lot) of duct tape, which is rather fashionable right now and it comes in all sizes and colors at your local hardware store.
Tip #2: Resuscitate last years backpack.
Scrap material, beads, ribbon, and thread can all be used to pump new life into a beat up backpack. You may have to man the sewing machine for the major problems, like reattaching that strap, but then let your children do the work. Get a couple of designs off the internet and let them try their hands at embroidery. Does your child like to paint? Supply them with a bottle of fabric paint or permanent markers.
Help them stay organized.
Tip #1: Tile corkboard is your friend.
Many home improvement stores sell inexpensive corkboard tiling. What better way to keep your child organized than to buy one tile for each child? They can decorate it with their names and such, then hang all of them in a well-trafficked area of the house. Post reminders, chores, notes, permission slips and other important papers there so they won’t get lost.
Tip #2: Check out online sources.
Websites like www.marthastewart.com has loads of ideas about your back to school needs. From little tissue holders to stylish, homemade portable art studios, this site can inspire your creative side. For interesting ways to jazz up your clothes and accessories, check out www.threadbanger.com. Most of the projects on this website are easy, chic, and inexpensive. Happy hunting!
September Town Events
Sep. 3: GSSD water board meeting. 7pm at the Gunlock Town hall.
Sep 7: Labor Day
Sep 10: Gunlock Fire Department Meeting. 7pm at the fire station.
Sep 13: National Grandparent Day
Sep 26: Cub Scout Day Camp. Meet at the Church at 7:15am to car pool. Will return around 2pm.
Sep 7: Labor Day
Sep 10: Gunlock Fire Department Meeting. 7pm at the fire station.
Sep 13: National Grandparent Day
Sep 26: Cub Scout Day Camp. Meet at the Church at 7:15am to car pool. Will return around 2pm.
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