Just Musing: A busy week ahead and football season is in full swing

This is Labor Day weekend ? a holiday often referred to as the last hurrah of summer.

Do you really know why we celebrate Labor Day? It is a way to remember and celebrate the men and women who fought for the rights of workers in the labor movement of the late 19th century.

For many it means a three-day weekend, but for folks employed in law enforcement, fire services and the medical field it often is not the privilege so many have. Their called careers/jobs demand working holidays to serve and protect folks across the nation. They may have to celebrate a day early or late or even longer days away from the actual holiday. If you see or know one or more working on the actual holiday be sure to express your thanks.

And while I’m on the subject, holidays often mean family gatherings as well. Backyard barbecues, picnics, swimming one last time before closing the pool (depending on the individual), baseball games and more. If you choose to imbibe alcoholic beverages, please be sure you have a designated driver to get your family home safely.

Marion also is gearing up for the annual Popcorn Festival in downtown Marion Thursday through Saturday, Sept. 7-9. Streets are closed and many folks will be driving alleys that are usually not frequently used. Please be on the lookout for children in adjoining yards.

The festival annually brings thousands of folks from out of town into the city who may not be familiar with the many one way streets in the city. Again, be on your toes for that car coming at you going the wrong way. If you get the chance to stop them, please help them find a safe way to get where they need to go and be polite. That could be you in a strange city.

It's OSU Buckeye, NFL and high school football time of year

The Ohio State Buckeyes opened their season yesterday at Indiana. As I write this on Tuesday morning (Aug. 29), Coach Ryan Day has not confirmed the starting quarterback nor do I know the outcome of Saturdays game, but I’m hoping for a W for the Buckeyes.

I am currently visiting family in the DC area. Folks down here are excited for the NFL season to begin to watch a hometown boy, Tyson Bagent, play for the Chicago Bears. He reportedly is the backup quarterback to former OSU quarterback Justin Fields.

Meanwhile back in Marion County, the local teams have already played their third game of the season. Volleyball, soccer and cross country seasons have played several contests as well. Good luck to all area high school athletes and hopefully, no injuries this season.

Let me leave you with this quotation by Martin Luther King Jr.: “All labor that uplifts humanity, has dignity.”

Until next week, have a safe Labor Day, be safe and kind and go Buckeyes.

Brenda Donegan is a former Marion Star staffer. She may be reached at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on Marion Star: Celebrating Labor Day, Marion Popcorn Festival and the OSU Buckeyes