Thank Eugene V. Debs, early American patriot and labor leader, and the Pullman Strike for the long Labor Day weekend.

Born amid the bloody confrontations between federal troops and striking union railroad workers in 1894, Labor Day was enacted by Congress and designed to celebrate the “spirit de corps” of trade and labor unions and dedicated to the social and economic achievements of the American worker. The weekend now signifies a seasonal shift; the end of summer and a general sense of the ebbing of vacation season.

So, fire up those BBQs and raise a toast to working men and women everywhere (and drink twice if you have a steady paying job you like). Then brace yourselves and get back to work.

A warm welcome and thanks to Bill Demarest, a Rockland journalist, editor, designer, writer, and newsroom leader who has worked at The Journal News as well as regional editor for some 22 plus Patch sites.

A Nyack resident, Demarest contributed these photos of the horned bull grills while recently visiting Auntie El’s, the longtime Sloatsburg roadside attraction.

“What guy wouldn’t want one of these in the back yard for  football season!” wrote in Demarest with the photos of what he thinks is a cool local location. “I love Auntie El’s,” he said.

Don’t forget to visit one of your local retailers this weekend, such as Hayward’s Deli & Market or Sterlington Station. Labor Day is, after all, the third most popular day to grill burgers.

Kiernan Farms will be at the Tuxedo Farmers’ Market at Tuxedo Station this Saturday, August 31, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Kiernan’s will have lots of fresh meat cuts.

For those who want to take a break from cooking and the kitchen, The Tuxedo Junction Inn will host a Crab Boil and BBQ this Saturday from 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Cost is $20 for an adult tickets and $15 for senior. Kids eat free with a purchase of ticket.

And there’s Characters Restaurant and Bar and Sunnysides Bar & Grill. And, of course, Rhodes North Tavern. And all the other local shops. Stop and shop.

And salute, your friends and neighbors — workers all. Labor with them to have a good weekend.

Original photos of barbeque bulls and Auntie El sign courtesy of Bill Demarest.