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LydiaN586309
Community Champion ⭐⭐⭐
March 24, 2019

WHAT'S SPECIAL ABOUT TODAY?

  • March 24, 2019
  • 485 replies
  • 397024 views

Today is March 24th and it is:

World Tuberculosis Day

 

World Tuberculosis Day is a worldwide event that aims to raise public awareness about tuberculosis and the efforts made to prevent and treat this disease. This event is held on March 24 each year and is promoted by organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO).

 

March 24th marks the day in 1882 when Dr. Robert Koch detected the cause of tuberculosis--the TB bacillus. This was a first step towards diagnosing and curing tuberculosis. World Tuberculosis Day can be traced back to 1982, when the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease launched World TB Day on March 24 that year, to coincide with the 100th anniversary of Dr. Koch’s discovery.

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I plan on posting interesting tidbits about each day/date of the calendar.  I hope others will add to it as well.  It can be related to any subject as long as it happened on or is correlated in some way with that particular date.

    485 replies

    DaveMcK
    Community Champion ⭐⭐⭐
    November 8, 2021

    National Harvey Wallbanger Day – November 8, 2021

     

    National Harvey Wallbanger Day is celebrated on November 8 every year. The day celebrates the alcoholic drink made with vodka, Galliano liqueur, and orange juice. The drink used to be quite popular in the 1970s, however, it can still be readily found on bar menus. It is quite easy to make at home too and you can always experiment with the type of liqueur or switch up the variety of orange. The day is celebrated by mixologists and everyone who enjoys a good drink. Harvey Wallbangers have also been referenced in various TV shows and films.

    HISTORY OF NATIONAL HARVEY WALLBANGER DAY

    Legend has it that the drink was invented by mixologist Donato “Duke” Antone at the Blackwatch Bar on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood, in 1952. He supposedly named the drink after a Manhattan Beach surfer named Harvey, or Tom Harvey, who would often visit his bar. The story goes that Harvey got tipsy after an evening of drinking, so much so that it was enough to make him bang into the wall upon his exit. This story is questionable as evidence shows that Antone was in Connecticut when the drink was supposedly invented! Another similar story claims that the drink was created at a bar called Pancho’s Bar in Manhattan Beach.

    However, the drink did not gain in popularity until the 1970s, when George Bednar of McKesson Imports Company promoted it as a way to sell Galliano, which was a trademark of his company. In late 1969, Bill Young created a Harvey Wallbanger cartoon figure that was featured on posters and other forms of advertising. Some believe that Bednar used the story of Antone inventing the drink as a way to market the drink. Either way, this catapulted Galliano’s sales and it became the number one imported liqueur in America. Harvey Wallbangers were served on flights and also by Amtrak. The drink has since become a favorite amongst Americans. The 1982 American League pennant-winning Milwaukee Brewers were nicknamed “Harvey’s Wallbangers” after the team started hitting better. So, even though the origins of the drink are dubious, the stories associated with it are quite colorful!

     

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    Posted by Dave the Lighthouse Keeper
    DaveMcK
    Community Champion ⭐⭐⭐
    November 10, 2021

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    Veterans Day 2021 is on Thursday, Nov. 11. The day traces its roots to the end of World War I when on Nov. 11, 1918, an armistice between the U.S.-led Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.

    You already know why Veterans Day is important. You are the service members, veterans or family and friends of veterans who stay up-to-date on military news, pay, benefits, fitness and veteran jobs.

    Related: 2021 Veterans Day Restaurants Deals and Discounts 

    Veterans Day is a time for us to pay our respects to those who have served. For one day, we stand united in respect for you, our veterans.

    This holiday started as a day to reflect upon the heroism of those who died in our country's service and was originally called Armistice Day. It fell on Nov. 11 because that is the anniversary of the signing of the Armistice that ended World War I. However, in 1954, the holiday was changed to "Veterans Day" in order to account for all veterans in all wars.

    Related: Learn about the history of Veterans Day

    We celebrate and honor America's veterans for their patriotism, love of country and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.

    What do you need to know about celebrating Veterans Day? Here’s some more information.

    Is Veterans Day on the same day every year?

    When first celebrated as Armistice Day, the day marked the end of World War I, formally recognized on the “11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month” in 1918.

    Today we continue to celebrate the day as Veterans Day, still recognizing the original tie with November 11. That means Veterans Day is on the same day every year -- November 11 -- regardless of on which day of the week it falls. When the date falls on a Saturday or Sunday, government officials or businesses may recognize it on both the official day and the following Monday.

    Is Veterans Day a federal holiday?

    Veterans Day is a federal holiday, a bank holiday and, in most states, a state holiday. That means that federal employees, including military members, are typically given the day off and, in most states, state workers are as well.

    Whether Veterans Day is taken as a work holiday by companies is a business decision. Many companies choose to take off either Veterans Day or Columbus Day, which falls in October, but not both.

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    Posted by Dave the Lighthouse Keeper
    DaveMcK
    Community Champion ⭐⭐⭐
    November 16, 2021
     

     

     

    NATIONAL FAST FOOD DAY

    On November 16th, food lovers get a dose of their favorite convenience food. Whether they use the drive-thru, dine-in, or get it to go, National Fast Food Day calls for us to grilled, fried, and broiled menu staples. 

    First popularized in the United States in the 1950s, fast food is considered any meal with low preparation time and served to a customer in a packaged form. The meal makes for quick dine-in, take-out or take-away. Most fast-food restaurants offer drive-thru service.

    Merriam-Webster dictionary first recognized the term “fast food” in 1951.

    Following World War I, automobiles became popular and more affordable. At that time, restaurants introduced the drive-in.

    Much like today’s food trucks, Walter Anderson first began selling hamburgers out of an old streetcar body at a Wichita intersection. Despite the limited menu, the hamburgers were a crowd-pleaser. When the popularity of his hamburgers grew, Anderson partnered with E.W. Ingram and opened the first White Castle in 1921 in Wichita, Kansas. These enterprising restauranteurs opened the first fast-food business, selling hamburgers for 5¢ each.

     

    The United States hosts the largest fast food industry in the world.  American fast-food restaurants are located in over 100 countries.

    Fun fact: The first Happy Meal was served in June of 1979.

    While fast food began as sandwiches and sides, the menus expanded over time. Today fast food includes fish, a variety of fried chicken, tacos, pizza, and a wide selection of sides. Sodas quench the thirst and desserts sweeten the menu. From ice cream and shakes to pies and cakes, fast food delivers.

    As times changed, restaurants added breakfast items to the menu, too. Expanding their hours increased their workforce and their menu options, as well. However, not all fast-food chains offer breakfast.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalFastFoodDay

    Invite a group out to your favorite fast-food restaurant. Share some rings and a shake. Do you prefer breakfast or lunch? No matter which one you prefer you can get it to go to make it faster, too! 

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    WHAT IS YOU FAVORITE FAST FOOD?

    Posted by Dave the Lighthouse Keeper
    DaveMcK
    Community Champion ⭐⭐⭐
    November 24, 2021

    National Jukebox Day – November 24, 2021

     

    National Jukebox Day is the day before every Thanksgiving — on November 24 this year. Music is the soundtrack of our lives, and this day celebrates the jukebox, shining some light on the device that brought and still brings music into our lives in a special way. The jukebox has a rich history; the nostalgia it carries is unparalleled. It has been around for era after era of modern music — from jazz to country and blues to rock. Celebrate this historic machine today as you visit your hometown restaurants and bars in preparation for Thanksgiving with family and old friends.

     

    HISTORY OF NATIONAL JUKEBOX DAY

    Jukeboxes revolutionized music in multiple ways. With the invention of the jukebox, people could enjoy music in restaurants and bars. Artists found a new way to get public exposure and were further enabled to sell vinyl. The jukebox is a historical and cultural symbol in more ways than one. 

    Louis Glass and William S. Arnold, managers of the Pacific Phonograph Co., created the first jukebox. Called a nickel-in-the-slot phonograph at the time, this revolutionary was displayed at the Palais Royale Saloon in San Francisco, California, on November 23, 1889. It saw instant success, making over $4000 (the equivalent of about $120,249.23 today) in the first year alone, and inspired innumerable people to create different versions all over the U.S. In no time, “phonograph parlors” with multiple nickel-in-the-slot phonographs spread across America and Europe. 

    As the machine’s expansion and popularity increased, technological advancements were made. Record manufacturers came up with methods to produce record copies more efficiently, amplifiers were developed to enable large groups to listen simultaneously, and a disc record replaced the phonograph cylinder. In 1905, John Gabel presented the Automatic Entertainer to the world, which had 24 song selections. In 1928, Justus P. Seeburg manufactured a multi-select jukebox called the audio phone, and it had eight separate turntables, allowing people to choose from eight different records.

    The jukebox took a hit when radio, another form of free entertainment, emerged in the 1920s, and the Great Depression hit in the 1930s. The sale of records saw a drastic dip as people lost the ability to spend on recreation. However, after the Great Depression, jukeboxes quickly bounced back and were thrust into their Golden Age as people got ready to live it up again. 

    The term ‘jukebox’ is believed to have originated in southern American states and came into existence in 1937. Since then, the jukebox’s popularity has increased steadily, its form everchanging. From a wooden box with listening tubes to colorful lights, metal, art deco designs, and even bubbles! Jukeboxes gave a new meaning to entertainment and gave artists a louder voice. They have done innumerable things for humanity, inspiring TouchTunes — a digital jukebox platform — to declare the day before Thanksgiving as National Jukebox Day in 2017.

     

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    Posted by Dave the Lighthouse Keeper
    DaveMcK
    Community Champion ⭐⭐⭐
    November 26, 2021
     

     

    Turkey Potato Chowder
     
    Leftover Turkey Stuffed Peppers
     
    Asian Five-Spice Roast Turkey
     
    Turkey Tetrazzini with Spinach
     
    Leftover Thanksgiving Turkey Sandwich with Cranberry Sauce

    LEFTOVER TURKEY FRIED RICE

    Leftover turkey fried rice with lean and delicious cooked turkey, light and fluffy rice, perfectly scrambled eggs, colourful vegetables, and classic Asian seasonings, is just what your healthy meal planning menu needs. Plus, it's made in one skillet in just 10 minutes. Hello new favourite easy weeknight dinner!

     

     

    With Thanksgiving coming up in less than a week, it's never too early to start planning ahead on what to do with all those delicious turkey leftovers, especially if you are like me and end up with a big stash of crave-worthy turkey meat after the holidays. Turkey fried rice is the perfect way to use it up in another meal that the whole family will love.

    I love using turkey meat in fried rice because it is a super versatile protein that just soaks up all of the delicious Asian flavours that are thrown in there.

     

     

     

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    Posted by Dave the Lighthouse Keeper
    DaveMcK
    Community Champion ⭐⭐⭐
    November 27, 2021

    NATIONAL BAVARIAN CREAM PIE DAY

    Each year on November 27th, National Bavarian Cream Pie Day recognizes a pie that makes a grand entrance. This rich and delectable dessert is possible, thanks to the French chef, Marie-Antione Carême.

    In the early 19th century, Carême established many of the French cooking techniques still used today. He’s even given credit for abolishing some practices from his kitchens. One dessert Carême receives credit for includes the creation of Bavarian cream. Perhaps he didn’t create it but perfected this gelatin-based pastry cream. Initially, gourmet restaurants and luxury hotels served Bavarian cream pie in France in the early 19th century.

    Also called crème bavaroise, Bavarian cream is a custard made with gelatin that allows the cream to set more firmly in molds. The cream allows a variety of flavors, hence numerous recipes. Once you’ve made the preferred flavor of Bavarian cream, pour into a pie crust and chill until set. Bavarian cream compliments many other desserts, too. 

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    HOW TO OBSERVE #BavarianCreamPieDay

    This delicious dessert is a perfect one to share. Make one at home or sneak out for dessert at your favorite restaurant. Another option is to pick up a pie at your local bakery or café. Be sure to give them a shout-out. 

     

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    Posted by Dave the Lighthouse Keeper
    DaveMcK
    Community Champion ⭐⭐⭐
    November 28, 2021
     

    NATIONAL FRENCH TOAST DAY

    Each year on November 28th, people across the United States enjoy National French Toast Day. Also known as eggy bread or omelet bread, it makes a great breakfast for guests or part of a brunch.  

    Home cooks and professionals alike whip up a few personal favorites when it comes to french toast recipes. The base consists of eggs and milk whisked together. Bread is dipped into the mixture and fried until golden. Many people also add some sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon to the base.

    The flavor of French toast can be brightened with a squeeze of fresh orange or stuffed with sauteed apples and cinnamon. Make French toast kid-friendly by cutting it into sticks. Then dip the sticks into syrup. Substitute sugary syrup with a fruit puree and fresh fruit pieces. Nuts and seeds add crunch to this delicious breakfast fare, and don’t forget the whipped cream! Just a dollop goes a long way.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalFrenchToastDay

    Make French toast as part of a big breakfast. Freeze leftovers for easy breakfasts later in the week. Have breakfast for dinner. Share your favorite French toast recipes. Do you love cinnamon and vanilla? What’s the best fruit toppings? Add apple butter or another jam. Share your favorite combinations using #NationalFrenchToastDay or here on the Front Porch. 

     

     

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    Posted by Dave the Lighthouse Keeper
    DaveMcK
    Community Champion ⭐⭐⭐
    November 30, 2021

    NATIONAL PERSONAL SPACE DAY

    National Personal Space Day on November 30th promotes kindness toward sensitivities and supports healing and self-protection by recognizing everyone’s right to decide when and how to be touched.

    Touch can hurt. Many Bacteria and viruses can harm.

    The day provides an opportunity to be aware of a person’s unspoken need for space or a gentler and welcomed touch. When you see someone wearing the peach symbol, forgo the handshake or hug and offer a smile and another way to show you care.

    National Personal Space Day encourages the use of the effective symbol to essentially say, “I need a little extra space today,” without awkwardness or hurt feelings. The Peach symbol kindly raises the voice of the wearer. The mission is working to change the way people show they care. After all, we are challenged in the 21st century, at a very reflective time regarding our personal space. It is also a time to allow us more understanding regarding the boundaries of others

     

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    A newer idea is the Man Cave or he women's Sace of her own. 

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    Posted by Dave the Lighthouse Keeper
    DaveMcK
    Community Champion ⭐⭐⭐
    December 6, 2021

    National Microwave Oven Day takes place every year on December 6 to celebrate one of the most influential kitchen appliances. Microwave ovens serve a variety of uses, such as making popcorn, heating leftovers, melting chocolate and butter, and even heating water. These days, you can even make microwave fudge or cake! Microwave ovens also use less energy than conventional ovens, sometimes up to 80% less. There’s no doubt that microwave ovens change our lives for the better. So, it’s no surprise that we have a day dedicated to celebrating the microwave’s usefulness.

    HISTORY OF NATIONAL MICROWAVE OVEN DAY

    Percy Spencer, a self-taught American engineer, developed a means to prepare food with microwaves safely. In 1945, he realized a candy bar in his pocket was melting while working with active radar. Amazed by his discovery, Spencer set out to make popcorn in the microwaves. He then attempted to cook an egg. The egg test performed far worse than the popcorn test, and blew up in his coworker’s face! Nowadays we know that we can use microwave ovens to cook or even poach eggs.

    Spencer, who worked at Raytheon, experimented with numerous ways to cook food with microwaves safely. He discovered that he could direct the magnetron’s power into a metal box and trap it there. He also noted that food placed in the box quickly heated up. Raytheon submitted a patent for a microwave oven on October 8, 1945. Raytheon introduced the Radarange microwave in 1947, which stood nearly 6 feet tall and cost $5,000. In 1955, Raytheon outsourced its patents to Tappan, which launched a microwave that still wasn’t applicable for domestic use, and cost $1,295 at the time. Raytheon bought Amana in 1965 and released a countertop microwave for $495 in 1967. Shortly after, Litton invented a microwave oven with a design similar to those used today, which helped promote home microwaves even more. In the United States, there were around 40,000 microwaves in use in 1971, rising to one million by 1975.

    Although some early models leaked, giving them a negative reputation, their popularity grew. Recipes for microwavable meals were abundant throughout the 1980s, as were consumer goods like cupcake kits but the majority of these items were of poor quality. Nonetheless, by 1986, around 25% of American households owned a microwave, and by 1997, that figure had climbed to 90%.

     

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    Posted by Dave the Lighthouse Keeper
    DaveMcK
    Community Champion ⭐⭐⭐
    December 7, 2021

    Remembering Pearl Harbor 80 years later.

    Proclamation on National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, 2021
    DECEMBER 03, 2021
    PRESIDENTIAL ACTIONS
    On December 7, 1941, the Imperial Japanese Navy attacked our forces at Pearl Harbor and other locations in Hawaii, taking the lives of 2,403 service members and civilians and leading the United States to declare its entrance into World War II. It was a day that still lives in infamy 80 years later. As we mark National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, we honor the patriots who perished, commemorate the valor of all those who defended our Nation, and recommit ourselves to carrying forth the ensuing peace and reconciliation that brought a better future for our world. Today, we give thanks to the Greatest Generation, who guided our Nation through some of our darkest moments and laid the foundations of an international system that has transformed former adversaries into allies.

    A decade ago, I paid my respects at the USS Arizona Memorial — where 1,177 crewmen lost their lives on that terrible December day. To this day, beads of oil still rise to the surface of the water — metaphorical “Black Tears” shed for those lost in the attack. Reading those names etched in marble was a mournful reminder of the sacrifices and the human cost of protecting our Nation and the ideals this great country represents. Our Nation remains forever indebted to all those who gave their last full measure of devotion eight decades ago. We will never forget those who perished, and we will always honor our sacred obligation to care for our service members, veterans, and their families, caregivers, and survivors.

    The Congress, by Public Law 103-308, as amended, has designated December 7 of each year as “National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day.”

    NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, do hereby proclaim December 7, 2021, as National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day. I encourage all Americans to reflect on the courage shown by our brave warriors that day and remember their sacrifices. I ask us all to give sincere thanks and appreciation to the survivors of that unthinkable day. I urge all Federal agencies, interested organizations, groups, and individuals to fly the flag of the United States at half-staff on December 7, 2021, in honor of those American patriots who died as a result of their service at Pearl Harbor.

    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this third day of December, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-one, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-sixth.

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    Posted by Dave the Lighthouse Keeper