In 1894, then President Grover Cleveland signed a law that would establish the first Monday in September as a national holiday we know as Labor Day. The U.S. Department of Labor’s website states, “The vital force of labor added materially to the highest standard of living and the greatest production the world has ever known and has brought us closer to the realization of our traditional ideals of economic and political democracy. It is appropriate, therefore, that the nation pays tribute on Labor Day to the creator of so much of the nation’s strength, freedom and leadership – the American worker.”
As we approach another Labor Day and bookend summer with a sort of “send off” celebration, it is not lost on me the amount of labor and innovation this community pours into the local economy to the benefit of so many.
In this issue, we spotlight burgeoning businesses like Edina Coffee Roasters and the continued efforts to re-envision local gathering spaces like Southdale Center with new and evolving dining establishments including Yumi Sushi and Peoples Organic Coffee and Wine Café, page 42.
Others have labored to create art and make art creation accessible to the local community. On page 20 we chat with Edina Art Center general manager Susan Tarnowski about the reopening of the Edina Art Center after its long COVID-cautious closure.
We also spotlight the fall harvest labor of one of Edina Magazine’s previous art department directors Emily Bretzel. You’ll surely enjoy reading about her adventures in exploring everything from growing a garden to raising chickens and harvesting honey on page 22. She also shares a yummy recipe for oven-roasted heirloom tomatoes.
We know you work hard to provide for your family, grow your businesses and make positive contributions to our community. We celebrate all local laborers. Your tireless efforts do not go unnoticed. Happy Labor Day.
