PHOENIX - The Arizona chapter of the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association (SMACNA Arizona) will once again send employees of its member companies to the movies as part of the organization's Labor Day celebration.

According to Carol Goguen, SMACNA Arizona's executive director, all members of the Sheet Metal Workers International Association Local No. 359 will receive two tickets to the movies.

This marks the fifth consecutive year SMACNA has sent its workforce to the movies.

"We recognize the value of our highly skilled and trained craftspeople," said Goguen. "And, Labor Day is a great time to thank them and make sure they know they are appreciated and that their hard work does not go unnoticed."

The first Labor Day parade was held in New York City on Sept. 5, 1882. In 1894 Congress voted to make it a federal holiday dedicated to American workers.

Goguen said Labor Day activities are intended to honor "our workforce," and SMACNA Arizona and its member contractors are "proud to make the extra effort to honor their skilled crafts people."

For more information on SMACNA Arizona, visit www.smacna-az.org or call 602-734-0214.

Publication date: 08/30/2004