HILO — On August 26, 2017, pensioners from all eight Big Island pensioner clubs attended their annual Labor Day Celebration. Festivities included performances and prizes, with those in attendance enjoying the camaraderie and fellowship.

Secretary-Treasurer Guy Fujimura and retired Social Services Coordinator Joanne Kealoha represented the Local and addressed the pensioners at both events. Mahalo Joanne for attending and for the Big Island photos.

Angel Salgado, age 93 won a cash prize for being the oldest male in attendance. He is pictured with his wife Cathy of the Paauilo ILWU Pensioner Club.

Gwen Kupukaa from the Kona Pensioner Club. Each club performed an act that showcased the pensioners’ many talents!

Congratulations to Tom and Kawaihona Poy for being the longest married couple -- 66 years!

Hagie Kaya, age 92 of the Papaikou ILWU Pensioner Club with her cash prize for being the oldest female in attendance.

The Paauilo Pensioners Club plus Mrs. Poy from the Laupahoehoe Pensioner Club serenade the rest of the pensioners.

Labor Day is about laborers... not 70% off mattress sales.

Labor Day became a federal holiday in 1894 and was founded in 1885 to honor the organized labor movement. Most people regard Labor Day as just another three-day weekend good for barbeques and sleeping in, but many of our pensioners still remember doing the backbreaking labor in the sugar plantations. The strength of the union helped them overcome the harsh working conditions and dollar a day wage standard. Mahalo to our pensioners for living through that history and paving the way for today’s workers who keep the legacy of the labor movement alive! The next issue will contain more Labor Day celebration coverage!