Sept 4, 2017 is Labor Day, and on this day many will be getting together to enjoy food, drink and the waning days of summer. A celebration of the America worker, Labor Day was first celebrated in 1882 in New York City. By 1885, municipal ordinances were passed declaring the day an official celebration. By 1887, Oregon had become the first state to pass legislation declaring Labor Day a holiday. In 1894, the U.S. Congress made it official. 
Like most national holidays in America, the driving force behind the celebration is food. Say goodbye to summer with the season's bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables. That means sun-kissed tomatoes, sweet corn and juicy berries, as well as other warm-weather favorites like lobster, steaks, ribs and anything else you can throw on the grill, of course purchased from your local neighborhood Harter House Supermarket. Kebabs are a great way to combine your favorite meats and veggies in a cool, colorful package. Served with a few simple sides like orzo salad and cucumber salad, they're easy to prepare and to clean up. Dessert could be a messy but delicious make-your-own-sundae bar, a fresh fruit cobbler or a berry crisp.
Blue Monday (serves 1)
* 1 oz vodka
* 1/2 oz Triple Sec
* 1/2 oz Blue Curacao
Pour all ingredients into a cocktail shaker. Add ice. Shake, then strain into a cocktail glass.
In the spirit of Labor Day, encourage your guests to really relax by filling your outdoor area with hammocks, comfortable lounge chairs, lawn blankets and lots of pillows. Like 4th of July, patriotic decorations dominate for Labor Day, but in addition to the stars and stripes, the slight chill in the air means you can also decorate in warm, earth tones and rich oranges, golds and yellows. Tiki torches, twinkle lights and candles in hurricane lamps keep things bright if your party lasts into evening. And don't forget the citronella candles to keep any flying critters away.
