This is not your typical Labor Day weekend.
For one thing it's late. In most communities the kids are already back in school. And this year a dry summer seems to have many trees changing their colors and shedding their leaves at a pace faster than normal.
Then, just as many were starting to anticipate the last long weekend at the beach or lake, Hurricane Earl reared its ugly head, causing them to put off their plans at least until the storm was due to pass out to sea this morning.
And then there's the fact that on the day we are supposed to honor the working man and woman, too many throughout the country find themselves without employment. Were it not for the safety-net programs constructed during the New Deal and post-World War II era, this would no doubt feel more like the Great Depression II than the gentler-sounding Great Recession.
This past week President Obama instructed us to "turn the page" in anticipation of better days ahead that will include a winding down of the wars in the Middle East and economic revival at home. One wonders if he really believes that, or simply wants voters to believe that as they contemplate their choice of candidates for Congress and other offices this fall.
Though hotter and drier than normal, it's been a great summer here in New England. No matter which week one chose for vacation, the weather was perfect for enjoying the outdoors.
Yes, the Red Sox struggled. But gas prices were down, and remain reasonable (or what passes for reasonable these days) for those contemplating a long road trip this weekend.
Ahead lies the region's signature season — fall. While Labor Day generally marks the end of the tourist season in places like coastal Maine and Cape Cod, attractions in Salem — which had great numbers in July and August — prepare for their really busy season: October, during which Haunted Happenings brings visitors from all over the world.
So enjoy the long weekend if you're lucky enough to have it off. It's that rare time of year when you can go to the beach during the day and watch a football game at night.
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