Fr. Alberto Bondy of St. Mary Assumption Church in Bronson recently reflected on the tradition of Labor Day. 

In the parish's Sept. 6 bulletin, Father Bondy gave a historical perspective of our country's celebration of Labor Day, noting that the first Labor Day observed in America was in New York City in 1882.

"The idea of setting aside a day to honor all laborers was that of Peter Maguire, a New York carpenter," Bondy said. "The celebration of Labor Day traditionally signals the end of the summer holidays and the beginning of regular parish activities: commissions and organizations."

Bondy went on to remember Richard Blechnyden, who attended the 1904 World's Fair to promote "tea exports" from India and Ceylon; and due to the hot weather decided to try ice in his tea, thereby helping iced tea to become an "American staple."

"Students, remember that those who learn also labor," Fr. Bondy stated.