by Kathryn Larlee, J.D., Hotline Attorney April Fools Day is upon us and there are wicked family members, friends, and co-workers plotting pranks. The tradition is for folks to pull harmless jokes on everyone around them. Where does all this Tom Foolery come from anyway? According to Snopes, the custom of pranking “remains shrouded in mystery”. Some claim that when the calendar changed in 1500 to the … Continue reading What is this Tom Foolery?
by Karen Flores, Hotline Attorney Halloween decorations have been on display in stores since early September, but many state and federal employees may be more excited about another October holiday, Columbus Day, since their offices may be closed that day. It is common knowledge that Columbus Day commemorates the anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ discovery of America, however it may not be known that he was not … Continue reading The History of Columbus Day
by Ron Tatro, Vice President Do you remember when you were a child and going to visit older relatives? They would start talking about family members, some longed deceased, and tell stories. If you were like me, you could not care less about those relatives. Recently, I have spent time with a college professor who is very engaged with looking into her family tree and ancestors. … Continue reading Did I Ever Tell You About Your Uncle Fred?
by Mary Beth Daley, Staff Accountant Did you know that August 7 is, celebrated annually as, National Lighthouse Day? On August 7, 1789, the United States Congress approved an act for the “establishment and support of Lighthouse, Beacons, Buoys, and Public Pears.” It was two hundred years later that Congress designated August 7th as National Lighthouse Day. Why do I bring up National Lighthouse Day? I … Continue reading National Lighthouse Day
by Karen Flores, Hotline Attorney The last Monday in May is designated as Memorial Day, a federal holiday creating a three-day weekend which signifies the unofficial beginning of summer, a day off work and school, and most likely a huge sale at Art Van. More importantly, Memorial Day was established as a day to honor those who died while serving in the armed forces. Memorial Day … Continue reading Don’t Forget To Celebrate Memorial Day!
by Rachael Savoie, Office Manager Administrative Professionals’ Day is celebrated yearly on the Wednesday of the last full week in April. This special day recognizes the work of secretaries, administrative assistants, receptionist, and other administrative support professionals. Most employers will give thanks to these employees by taking them out to lunch, cards, flowers, or gift cards. A little history on Administrative Professionals’ Day. During World War II, … Continue reading Administrative Professionals’ Day
by Michelle Jackson, Administrative Assistant In earlier times, the vernal equinox was considered the beginning of the New Year. It has always been an important day to those who work the land because it signifies the beginning of the season of regeneration and growth. We can empathize with the ancients’ joy at the resurrection of the sun god from the underworld. It’s spring! The thought makes … Continue reading The History of Spring
by Dawn Kepler, Project Administrator The defense of our nation is a shared responsibility. Women have served in the defense of this land for years before our United States was born. They have contributed their talents, skills and courage to this endeavor for more than two centuries with an astounding record of achievement that stretches from Lexington and Concord to the Persian Gulf and beyond. … Continue reading Forgotten Women of War – Women’s History Month
by Kathryn Larlee, J.D., Hotline Attorney “There must be more equality established in society, or morality will never gain ground, and this virtuous equality will not rest firmly even when founded on a rock, if one half of mankind be chained to its bottom by fate, for they will be continually undermining it through ignorance or pride” ― Mary Wollstonecraft, A Vindication of the Rights of Woman Following … Continue reading Women’s History—The Right to Vote
by Nicholas Goodman, Intake Clerk When discussing vision loss, it is important to know that a person can have low vision but not be completely blind. According to the American Foundation for the Blind, low vision isn’t fully correctable with surgery, medications, contact lenses, or glasses. February is Low Vision Awareness month and there are many resources and great technology available for people with low … Continue reading Low Vision Awareness Month
