First and foremost, today was Labor Day. I am a proud member of Actors Equity – The performing arts labor union representing professional actors & stage managers.

“Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.” – History of Labor Day (dol.gov)

 

It was great to get out and celebrate this holiday today.

Our first stop was St. Rocco’s Church to watch The Greasy Pole Challenge. 

 

“Monday’s famous greased pole climb will draw spectators from near and far. They’ll crowd round to see who’ll make it the top of an old wooden utility pole on the church parking lot, that’s heavily slathered with axle grease for the event.” – Cleveland.com

This was as amazing as it sounds. Each team had 5 members that climbed over each other along this greasy pole to get to the top. We were all screaming and cheering them on. I was with my friend Maureen, but we also made friends with some other folks nearby. 

Here is a video of the team that got the closest. You can’t see it, but he was literally 2 inches short of touching mark.

 

Because he missed, there was no winner for this year and next year the pot of $1000 is doubled. We did some research, but cannot figure out why this is a tradition. It’s been happening annually for 80 years! So, I believe this tradition fits the description of No Rhyme or Reason.

There were no women involved in this event at all, so naturally Maureen and I are going to put together a team of gymnasts to win it all next year. (ha)

The second part of the day was spent on a scenic drive along Lake Erie. We took photos, ate ice cream, had dinner, and chatted non stop. I accomplished 0% of the chores I should have done on my 1 day off for the week

.

I regret nothing. 

Cost of today’s celebration: $12.00