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| Four Seasons Hemet Herald | SEPTEMBER 2017 | 3 It is hard to believe that we are now at the end of summer. Although the weather may not seem like it, according to Wikipedia, Labor Day is considered the "unofficial end of summer" because it marks the end of the cultural summer season. Historically, many people opt to take vacations during the two weeks which end Labor Day weekend or simply enjoy the three-day holiday weekend. So, just what is the origin of this holiday we know as "Labor Day?" Well, a little research tells us that back in the late 19th century, trade unionists proposed that a day be set aside to celebrate labor. So "Labor Day" was initially promoted by the Central Labor Union and the Knights of Labor, and they organized the first parade in New York City. It was the state of Oregon that first made Labor Day an official public holiday in 1887. Following Oregon's lead, thirty more states had made it an official public holiday by 1894 when it was proclaimed an official federal holiday. So what began as an effort organized by unions, is now a federally recognized public holiday to honor the contributions that workers have made to the strength and prosperity of the United States. Celebrated on the first Monday in September, it has evolved into a 3-day weekend of barbeques and fun times. For sports enthusiasts, Labor Day weekend also signifies the beginning of many fall sports such as NFL football, NCAA first games, NASCAR Southern 500 Race, and the NHRA U.S. Nationals drag races. And for you "fashionistas," it is also considered to be the last day it is acceptable to wear white or seersucker. Admittedly, a large percentage of us here in Four Seasons are now retired from the work force, so Labor Day may not have the same significance as it once did. However, a great number of our residents have now opted to provide their "labor" as volunteers on our various committees and events that we enjoy year round. And, we are so grateful for their labor because it is generally considered a "labor of love" that contributes to the enjoyment of our community. Within Four Seasons there are a number of significant projects underway which are being orchestrated through the labor of our volunteers. For example, the Facilities Committee is overseeing the planning and construction of our new storage building that will soon be available, and the drainage control project within Lot A above the west Masters. The Social Committee is hard at work planning and organizing our fall and winter events. Access Control Committee members continue to develop their transition plan for the new RFID gate access project. And, our Emergency Preparedness Committee and CERT volunteers are busy preparing for the upcoming Safety Faire and Great Shakeout exercise. Likewise, the ongoing oversight of our Architectural and Landscape Committees' projects keeps them busy. Volunteers on our Library and Bistro Committees are also hard at work. And, not be overlooked, all of our various clubs (although intended for fun) certainly do entail a good amount of labor to make things happen. We were saddened to learn of the relocation of one of our more active couples when Don and Emilie Ortega announced their move to Arizona. Emilie has been so instrumental (pun intended) in the organization of the creative Reader Theater performances, and Don's participation on our Board of Directors will most assuredly be missed. We wish them well in their new chapter. As mentioned in last month's Board Message, we began the process of developing a Strategic Plan for our Four Seasons at Hemet Community. However, this will be somewhat delayed because we want to first fill the vacant seat on the Board created by Don Ortega's resignation which will likely be completed on or before this month's Board of Directors meeting. Message From the Board of Directors Sincerely, and on behalf of your Board of Directors, Jim H., Ken, Tony, Gene and Jim C., Russ Brown President

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