September 9 – On Sept. 6 we observed Labor Day. Traditionally, most of us think of Labor Day as the symbolic end of summer. I can remember when we “never wore white after Labor Day.” We have picnics, barbecues, fireworks displays, a trip to the beach or the mountains, etc., and one last trip before the kids go back to school. In U. S. sports, Labor Day marks the beginning of the NFL and college football seasons. NCAA teams are ready to play.

But why is Labor Day celebrated as a federal holiday on the first Monday in September every year?

First observed on September 5, 1882, in New York City, Labor Day is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers – a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country. It became a federal holiday in 1894 during the administration of President Grover Cleveland.

The vital force of labor has added materially to the highest standard of living and the greatest production the world has ever seen. It brought us closer to the realization of our traditional ideals of economic and political democracy. It is appropriate that the nation pay tribute on Labor Day to the ones responsible for this nation's strength, freedom, and leadership – the American workers.

Another important day this week, is Sept. 11. In observance of the events that occurred on September 11, 2001, many will be celebrating this date as Patriot's Day. Everyone is encouraged to fly an American flag – at home, at work, wherever you are – and as we go out and about, show your pride and wear the colors of red, white, and blue.

Friends And Neighbors

On Sept. 6, Johnny and Missy Bennett visited with Debbie and Bruce Francis. They all attended worship services at Mt. Nebo Baptist Church. After Church, they enjoyed a delicious lunch at Ruby Tuesday's.

The Cardinal Quilt Guild of Prince Edward County held their monthly meeting on Sept. 7 at the Douglas Presbyterian Church. It was nice to see everyone and hear about what everyone did over the summer hiatus. On Tuesday, Sept. 28, I and others members of the group will deliver quilts that we have made for the girls of the Rustburg Cottage of the Patrick Henry Boys and Girls Plantation. We have previously made quilts for the girls at the Wylliesburg Cottage. Our next project will be to make quilts for one of the boys' cottages. Our next meeting will be on Tueday, Oct. 5, at 10 a.m. at the Douglas Presbyterian Church. New members, visitors and guests are always welcome. You do not have to be a skilled quilter to be a member of this group.

The Abilene Community Club will host a barbecue chicken dinner from 5 to 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 25, at the Abilene Community Center. Newcomers to the Abilene community are invited to attend to get to know your neighbors and learn more about the Abilene Community Club.

Beulah Church will hold their revival at 7 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 19, through Tuesday, Sept. 21. Everyone is invited to attend.

Homecoming at Mt. Nebo Baptist Church will be held on Sunday, Sep. 26. Jeremy Harris from Floyd will speak. Lunch will be served following services. Visitors and guests are welcome to attend.

Happy Birthday wishes are extended to Frances Moore who will be celebrating on Sept. 13.

If you have any announcements or news that you would like to share, please call me at 223-2271 or e-mail me at kz5ro@kinex.net.