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Celebrate workers on last summer holiday
In the pulpit
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On Monday, we’ll celebrate the last summer holiday. At the end of a long, hot season, workers everywhere are grateful for Labor Day — a paid holiday for most people.
Labor Day, which celebrates the working class, also frequently is seen as the unofficial end of summer. The holiday is observed in the United States, Canada and other industrialized nations.
Labor Day used to signal the beginning of a new school term in Liberty and the surrounding counties. Although our local schools started back several weeks ago, many colleges and other schools in the region won’t begin classes until after Labor Day.
In 1882, the holiday was first celebrated by the Knights of Labor in New York with a parade to honor the working class. In 1894, Congress passed a law making Labor Day an official national holiday.
With today’s volatile economy, many workers are worried about their jobs and others have been unemployed for long periods of time. The pressure felt by those trying to compete with ever-changing technology and the uncertainty of the job market has dampened the spirits of many hard workers.
According to a recent Spherion Staffing Services survey, the majority of those polled said they have assumed additional responsibilities and work. About 93 percent said they have assumed the additional responsibilities without extra compensation.
This Labor Day, let’s salute American workers for their contributions to society, their sacrifices, the long hours they work and the services they render to make this country a better place.
While many companies reward their employees with a paid Labor Day holiday, some employers recognize workers with other incentives, such as certificates or letters of appreciation, accomplishment badges, raises or bonuses.
One Hinesville employer, Unlimited Taxes & More, Inc., had an employee awards banquet and dinner July 24 at Celebration Castle as a way to thank staffers.
Employees were recognized with certificates, pens and bonuses. According to Unlimited Taxes & More’s mission statement, the company “strives to be a nationwide provider of affordable, professional income tax and related services and products delivered with consistent quality and value by friendly, concerned tax professionals.”
“My employees are very dedicated, loyal and professional team players,” said Shonda Mickel, Unlimited Taxes & More, Inc. CEO. The company recently expanded by opening offices in Brunswick, Valdosta and Sarasota, Fla.
As we celebrate the last holiday of the summer, let us not forget the many dedicated employees whose professionalism and loyalty make our lives more comfortable. And here’s a special salute to the men and women in uniform who go beyond the call of duty to make this nation safe.
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