Capt. Bob's Marina Chincoteague Island Fishing Reports 8/27/08

LABOR DAY!
Did you know that Labor Day began in 1882 created by the Central Labor Force to give the average working "joe" a day off? It was not offically voted to be a National State Holiday until 1892, when all fifty states (at that time) made the first Monday in September Labor Day. The significance has really changed since then… The "big deal" back then was huge parades, neighborhood get-togethers, cookouts, partying (yeah, they partied back then). Present day celebrations focus mainly on Labor Day Sales (GUILTY! Both shopping and having a sale at Capt. Bob's!!), political rallies (two weeks of conventions -Democrats & Republicans) and still cookouts and parties with friends and family. For most people it marks the end of summer - weekends trips to the beach, fishing excursions, etc.Is it still a celebration of the work force? Has merges, downsizing, out-sourcing diminished the value of the average American worker? Worker's benefits packages, retirement plans - have been affected. Is profit affecting the quality of merchandise? I can definitely see a difference in the outboard motors that were purchased recently in comparison to ones that were purchased a decade ago. Everything inside of them is plastic and not metal.

Life goes on. This hurting economy isn't the first time we have hit hard times. In my lifetime, I can remember another time in the 70's. But, we always rise above, like cream. Sadly, everyone may not be able to celebrate this Labor Day. If you have a friend or neighbor, who cannot celebrate, reach out. Maybe it's the homeless person hanging around the street corner or even the town drunk. Anything.. Even a boxed lunch.

Enough! But, you know, that's is what we are ALL about as Americans…

Capt. Bob's Marina

Chincoteague Island, Virginia
www.captbobs-marina.com