WHAT'S SPECIAL ABOUT TODAY?

[LydiaN586309]

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.

[DaveMcK]

As hospitals get increasingly overwhelmed, medical staff around the world have posted pictures of themselves holding up signs to tell people to stay home.

Hundreds of Miles From Home, Nurses Fight Coronavirus on New York’s Front Lines

“Every day you go in and you’re like, ‘Can I do this for one more day?’’’ a nurse from North Carolina .

National Nurses Week begins each year on May 6th and ends on May 12th, Florence Nightingale's birthday. These permanent dates enhance planning and position National Nurses Week as an established recognition event. As of 1998, May 8 was designated as National Student Nurses Day, to be celebrated annually. And as of 2003, National School Nurse Day is celebrated on the Wednesday within National Nurses Week (May 6-12) each year.

The nursing profession has been supported and promoted by the American Nurses Association (ANA) since 1896. Each of ANA's state and territorial nurses associations promotes the nursing profession at the state and regional levels. Each conducts celebrations on these dates to recognize the contributions that nurses and nursing make to the community.

The ANA supports and encourages National Nurses Week recognition programs through the state and district nurses associations, other specialty nursing organizations, educational facilities, and independent health care companies and institutions.

[DaveMcK]

NATIONAL ZUCCHINI BREAD DAY – April 25

NATIONAL ZUCCHINI BREAD DAY

Each year on April 25th each year, National Zucchini Bread Day encourages bakers to make this delicious bread.   

Many explorers who came to the Americas brought back what they considered strange foods, including the zucchini. The zucchini eventually found its way to Italy, where it was named zucchino. Native Americans referred to zucchini as “something eaten raw.” However, we all know that zucchini tastes best cooked, especially in bread.

Zucchini bread is similar to other quick breads like banana bread. Other quick breads you might be familiar with making include muffins, scones, and biscuits. When baked, Zucchini and banana bread go into the oven in loaf pans. When finished, slice and serve with butter, peanut butter, jam, or just plain. 

#NationalZucchiniBreadDay

Celebrate the day by making fresh zucchini bread for yourself. Dip into your freezer stash from last year’s bumper crop and bake the day away. Be sure to plant more zucchini so you can celebrate this day next year, too! 

Enjoy this delicious recipe: Mom’s Zucchini Bread recipe.

Use #NationalZucchiniBreadDay to share on social media.

NATIONAL ZUCCHINI BREAD DAY HISTORY

Despite the popularity of this food holiday, we have been unable to identify its origins.

Cinnamon Swirl Zucchini Bread

 

Zucchini Crumb Cake

[LydiaN586309]

National Bulldogs Are Beautiful Day – April 21, 2020

Bulldogs, beautiful? Well, yes! French, American, or English — bulldogs portray glamour in their own special way. That’s why we present National Bulldogs Are Beautiful Day each April 21. (In case you’re wondering, our photo shows a very pretty French bulldog.)

True — people (as a rule) can’t get away with a lot of slobbering and wrinkles, but bulldogs make it an art form. They started popping up as furry companions in historical literature about five centuries ago. Today this sweet sidekick continually ranks as one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S. French bulldogs currently sit fourth on the American Kennel Club’s list. (Bulldogs, technically a separate breed, are fifth.)  

Here’s more on why we love them so much.

NATIONAL BULLDOGS ARE BEAUTIFUL DAY ACTIVITIES

1. Volunteer at an animal shelter

   It’s heartbreaking, but not every bulldog gets to celebrate National Bulldogs Are Beautiful Day in the comfort of their own forever home. Lend a helping hand to bulldogs — and every other dog breed — by volunteering some of your time to your local animal shelter. Your heart will be full afterward, and you’ll probably even get some puppy kisses to help sweeten the deal.

2. Visit a pet-friendly restaurant or bar

   Pack up your bulldog and head out to grab some tasty food and drinks. Most pet-friendly restaurants set out water bowls for your pup to enjoy as they hang out with you, but if you do a little research, you may even find a spot that has a menu dedicated just to the hounds.

3. Indulge your pet

   Stopping at the local pet bakery on a daily basis probably isn’t the best thing for your furry friend’s waistline, but today is National Bulldogs Are Beautiful Day, and that means ALL bulldogs are beautiful. Today is the perfect reason to indulge the bulldogs in your life—big and small. Yes, this also means you should stop by the human bakery and treat yourself as well.

WHY WE LOVE NATIONAL BULLDOGS ARE BEAUTIFUL DAY

1. They make drool cool

   Acknowledging the beauty of everyday life is a sure way to elevate your mood. Bulldogs? They’re gorgeous just the way they are – drool hanging out of the corner of their mouth and bull-legged posture just add to the beauty.

2. They're adaptable

   Bulldogs are great for city dwellers and country folk. This breed is fairly low-energy, so they don’t require a ton of exercise. They'll be content whether sniffing around a huge backyard or are taking a nap on the floor of your apartment.

3. They make great watchdogs

   They’re sweet-natured, but the staunch, muscular appearance of bulldogs can be intimidating. Although bulldogs are usually easygoing and lazy, when provoked, they're not afraid to make their presence known when necessary.

[DaveMcK]

The Most Beautiful Butterflies: Blue Morpho Butterfly

Butterfly Symbolism and Meaning

Butterflies are deep and powerful representations of life. Many cultures associate the butterfly with our souls. There are some religions sees the butterfly as a symbol of resurrection. Around the world, people view the butterfly as representing endurance, change, hope, and life.

Calling the forests of Central and South America its home, the Blue Morpho Butterfly is one of the world’s largest butterflies. This fluttering creature’s wings are bright blue and have lacy black edges, the result of light reflecting off microscopic scales on the back of their wings. They are not all about aesthetics, however: the underside of this butterfly’s wing is a dull brown and serves as camouflage against predators.

[LydiaN586309]

World Backup Day – March 31, 2020

We’re fortunate enough to have access to the most powerful computers to date, but what would you do if you lost everything on your computer? Crashes happen more often than you think, data recovery can cost you hundreds of dollars, and recovering everything you’ve stored on your computer is not guaranteed. We understand, life gets hectic and it’s easy to forget to back up your files. Join us on March 31st, as we celebrate World Backup Day.

World Backup Day Activities

Copy your files to an external hard drive
Set aside 15 minutes to an hour to back up all of the existing files on your desktop, laptop or pc. Simply purchase a hard drive of your liking - we recommend 1TB drives or more - and copy your files to the drive.

Play in the clouds
Can't buy a hard drive in time? No worries! There are plenty of companies that specialize in storing your documents online. Do your research and figure out which service works best for you. We recommend the Google Cloud, WMware Storage or Barracuda Cloud Storage, but they are all great!

Back that thing up party
Invite all the employees on your team to back up their files with one of the methods above. This will create a safer culture among your staff and prevent any projects from slipping through the crack. The last thing you need is a client asking for a file that was wrongfully discarded.

Why We Love World Backup Day
Being prepared is half the battle
Wake up and smell the coffee. Crashes happen more often than not. Are you prepared to lose that project you have been working on all semester? What about those important documents you stored to help you get ready for tax season? Are they easily replaceable? We advise you to make copies if you haven't done so yet.

Peace of mind
As mentioned above, if your files are irreplaceable then we highly encourage you to back up your documents. Keep in mind that it is better to be safe, than be sorry. Duplicate your files on to as many storage devices as you like to make sure that you are clear from accidents that may occur.

An archive to dig through
Just like opening an old, untouched photo album, it can often be a trip down nostalgia lane to dig into old folders on long-forgotten hard drives.

[LydiaN586309]

Cute fur babies, Dave!

[LydiaN586309]

National Puppy Day – March 23, 2020

Prepare yourselves for an overdose of cuteness, because March 23 is National Puppy Day! Established in 2006, National Puppy Day is a paw-some day for all dog enthusiasts to celebrate unconditional love and fawn over the undeniably cute furballs that bring so much happiness into this world. While we’re all softies when it comes to our four-legged friends, today is also designed to raise awareness about puppy mills and help prospective pet owners consider adoption.

History of National Puppy Day
Founder, Colleen Paige’s mission is to help galvanize the public to recognize the number of dogs that need to be rescued each year. It’s also an excellent opportunity to show off your dog’s supermodel side and give them some extra cuddles for all the joy they bring. So sit back and indulge in the endless stream of adorable puppy photos, but keep in mind that today might be the best excuse to bring home your own fluffy canine as your next best friend!

Colleen Paige first brought adoption awareness to a national level with National Dog Day in 2004, which was later adopted by the New York State Legislature in 2013. This day is celebrated on August 26 and is the day Colleen adopted her first dog, “Sheltie” when she was 10 years old. Since then, Colleen has inspired millions with her compassion and has brought worldwide attention to animals in need. She has shone a light on dogs putting their lives on the line every day for personal protection, for law enforcement, for the disabled, for our freedom, and for our safety.

National Puppy Day and National Dog Day are now great opportunities to adopt a dog because shelters typically have the highest intake of dogs around summertime. With 30 to 40 animals entering the shelter daily, we need public support to help save lives, and these national holidays do just that — by encouraging and reminding people to adopt, donate, and love their animals more every year.

National Puppy Day Activities
Teach your pup a new trick
At their young age, puppies are always open to new things and teaching a trick can be a great learning experience for both of you. Activities like these can help further develop your puppy's social skills and even strengthen your companionship — your pup will enjoy the extra treats along the way too!

Pamper your pup
Sometimes your pup is worthy of a 5-star spa treatment. Start with a bubble bath and end with a grooming session to bring out their baby soft coat. An extra belly rub can't hurt too — your pooch will be sure to thank you later!

Look at photos and videos of adorable puppies
Puppies are often the best medicine, no matter your state of mind. There are so many you might be at it for a while.

5 Im-PAWS-ible Puppy Facts

Jolly Green Puppy
In rare cases, the fur of a light-haired puppy can get temporarily stained by a green pigment in the mother’s placenta, making them appear green at first.

The Tiniest Tea-cup
According to Guinness World Records, the smallest puppy in the world was a Chihuahua named Milly, measuring as an adult at 3.8 inches tall.

Bilboa’s Botanic Puppy
Since its opening in 1997, the Guggenheim Museum in Bilboa, Spain has been home to a 40-foot tall puppy statue adorn with 37,000 flowers.

Spotless Puppies
Dalmatian puppies are born without any spots and instead accrue them over time.

Sleepy Puppy
Though their energy picks up pretty fast, much like human’s newborn puppies sleep on average of 15-20 hours a day.

Why We Love National Puppy Day
They're Great Listeners
Puppies are a judge-free, guilt-free zone. No matter how big or how small the problem, they're always there to comfort and lick your problems away.

They Sniff Out Health Problems
Studies show that babies raised in close contact with a puppy get sick less often than those who aren't. Not only do they help build up our immune system against allergens but their strong sense of empathy promotes a stress-free, nurturing environment. Puppies can help shed and sniff your way to better health.

They Keep Us Active and Stress-Free
Let's face it, puppies can be a handful, but chasing them has surprising health benefits. They keep us constantly exercising, which helps reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Who knew puppies could help us revamp our workout routine?

[LydiaN586309]

TODAY IS......

National K9 Veterans Day – March 13, 2020

Are you excited for National K9 Veterans Day this March 13, or are we barking up the wrong tree? Our little furry friends are already awesome as it is. But dogs who have been trained to serve our country are even more heroic. Plus, they look so cute and serious in their little uniforms. K9 dogs have been around ever since 1942, when an organization called Dogs for Defense was founded to train dogs to be sentries for supply depots. The program was approved by the U.S. Army in March 1942, the U.S. Army K9 Corps was founded on March 13, 1942, and the rest is history (literally). Get ready to celebrate America’s patriotic puppers!

How to Observe National K9 Veterans Day

1. Adopt a retired K9 dog

   K9 dogs are loved and appreciated, but unfortunately, there are some that are left without homes after their service ends. If you’re ready for a new pooch, adopt one of these dogs instead of buying one from a breeder! One organization that helps you find these dogs is linked here.

2. Give your own pooch a treat

   While we’d love to give every retired K9 dog some TLC this holiday, sometimes you can’t locate one for the purposes of treat-giving. If that’s the case, show your own furry friend how much you love him! He’ll appreciate it, and you’ll be honoring the spirit of the holiday. It’s a win-win!

3. Teach your dog a new trick

   Old dogs can’t learn new tricks — but your dog can! Celebrate the incredible training of a K9 dog by training your own dog a bit. You’ll have an excuse to spend time with your dog, and you’ll feel great when you finally get him to perform the trick. Try starting out with getting your dog to roll over or shake your hand.

   

Why National K9 Veterans Day is Important

1. They’re here to protect us

   Dogs already bring us such joy by being lovable and loyal. However, they bring us even more joy when they’re working toward justice. From the first sentry dogs in Dogs of Defense to dogs that are trained to sniff out contraband or follow criminals, K9 dogs can do it all. And they have. Historically, K9 dogs have comprised Search and Rescue teams at Ground Zero, served as Security Dogs, and more. We thank them for their service!

2. They’re adorable as anything

   You know the expression “there’s nothing cuter than a man in uniform?” We’d like to adapt that, because whoever coined it was clearly talking about dogs. We have two points to back up this argument. Firstly, there’s something so precious about how serious K9 dogs gets when they’re doing their jobs. Secondly, they get tiny little police vests. Case closed.

3. They’re incredibly well-trained

   In a time where some parents can’t even get their own children to regularly take out the trash, K9 dogs are impeccably trained. Don’t believe us? Some K9s are trained to bite down on the arms of criminals to keep them in place upon command. However, the dogs are not allowed to draw blood. So they know exactly how hard to bite down to hold without being violent. That’s incredible! K9 dogs, we salute you.

   

[LydiaN586309]

National Girl Scout Day – March 12, 2020

Steel your resolve. Dieters, beware! There are Girl Scouts everywhere, and they’re all trying to sell you kryptonite … aka, their most delicious cookies. Whether your favorite flavor is minty Thin Mints or gooey Tagalongs, we can all agree that Girl Scout cookies make the world go round. They’re so good, they deserve a holiday. And they have one … of sorts. Get ready to celebrate this March 12, because it’s National Girl Scout Day! Part of Girl Scout Week, National Girl Scout Day commemorates the anniversary of the first Girl Scout meeting. In 1912, Juliette “Daisy” Gordon Low organized the meeting in Savannah, Georgia. And Girl Scouts has only grown from there! So grab a cookie (or 12) and get ready to celebrate.

National Girl Scout Day Activities

1. Buy some cookies

   Yes, you read that sentence right. We’re giving you the excuse you’ve been longing for to go out and buy those cookies! 100% of the money from cookie sales goes back into the organization. Further, all the money you spend stays local. That means instead of funding Girl Scouts HQ, your money is helping directly support your community and its development. Personally, we think that’s pretty awesome!

2. Create your own Girl Scout badge

   Okay, so you’re probably too old to run out and join Girl Scouts (and if you’re not, we hope you’re using the internet with parental supervision). However, you can do the next best thing and create badges for yourself. Set challenges and then give yourself badges when you complete them! Have you always wanted to try a new hike but could never find the motivation? Create a wilderness explorer badge! We’re exaggerating, but you get the point.

3. Spend time with your favorite Girl Scout

   We all know a Girl Scout. Maybe it’s your daughter; maybe it’s your little cousin. Either way, spend a little time with them this National Girl Scout Day and let them know how loved and appreciated they are. Tell them they’re going to change the world! Girl Scouts is all about lifting girls up, and you can support that mission this March 12.

Why We Love National Girl Scout Day

1. Girl Scouts empowers girls

   The Girl Scout mission is to “[build] girls of courage, confidence, and character, who make the world a better place.” How could we not love an organization who wants to create powerful girls? We need the next generation to be both smart and altruistic, and Girl Scouts is trying to accomplish just that. Queen Bey explains it better than we ever could: “Who run the world? Girls!"

2. Their cookies are delicious, darn it

   Excuse our French; we get very excited about Girl Scout cookies. We’ve started minor wars with our friends over which flavors are the best. And it’s all because of those delicious circles of minty, chocolate, peanut-buttery goodness. We can’t stop eating them. We don’t want to stop eating them! We will gladly give up being healthy or in staying in shape if it means we can eat mass quantities of these wonderful cookies. Plus, a hot body is overrated … right?

3. They taught everyone we know how to make lanyards

   Let’s be real — none of us would know how to make lanyards without a Girl Scout. Whether you made your first lanyard in summer camp or on the elementary school playground, you learned how to do it from a Girl Scout. We don’t know exactly why all Girl Scouts make lanyards, but we’ve all reaped the benefits. What would life be without lanyards? Backpack zippers would be much less swanky, at the very least. Thank you, Girl Scouts.

[LydiaN586309]

Today is.... National Napping Day – March 9, 2020

Ever feel jet-lagged after daylight savings? March 9 is National Napping Day and it’s the perfect day to help you recuperate from the “spring forward.” Don’t doze off as I tell you this, I promise this won’t be a snooze fest! Napping is actually scientifically proven to be better for you than coffee or energy drinks. So now you can feel less guilty about enjoying this not so guilty pleasure. You may have lost that extra hour in the day but you can feel like you caught up on some sleep by celebrating the day in style.

History of National Napping Day

National Napping Day was created in 1999 by a Boston University professor and his wife. William Anthony Ph.D. and his wife Camille Anthony created this holiday to spread awareness on the importance of getting enough sleep and its benefits. The holiday was meant to help make up for the amount of sleep lost when the hour changes. The date was chosen because studies have shown that people are already at their most tired and sleep deprived after daylight savings changes. The change of the hour really makes a difference, but National Napping Day can make you feel like there was no change at all.

However, even though the holiday wasn’t created until 1999, the Spanish already had the tradition of taking an afternoon “siesta.” That’s good news for Spain, since daylight savings won’t affect the routine of the people there too much. The Ancient Romans were known to take midday naps as well. With the hustle and bustle of modern life midday naps seem more like a thing from the past to most people. Naps are seen as luxuries now, a symbol of extra time most of us can’t afford. But back then naps were seen as a necessity and were sometimes used for medicinal purposes and even religious practices. Even though National Napping Day was created 21 years ago, it still doesn’t have actual recognition as an official national holiday. Although National Napping Day isn’t technically a real holiday, who doesn’t love a reason to nap?

National Napping Day Activities

1. Take a nap

   This might seem obvious but with our busy schedules sometimes we ignore the things our bodies need, like rest. The best way to enjoy this holiday is to get comfy and rest. Close the curtains, set your phone to silent, snuggle up in your favorite pj’s and relax.

2. Set up a sleeping playlist

   Sometimes even though we want to relax or fall asleep we just can’t seem to turn our brains off. Setting up a calm music playlist can help your brain relax and make it easier to fall asleep. This is a great way to unwind and discover new music.

3. Turn off your phone

   This is the hardest one I know! But when we’re distracted by what's going on on our phones it's hard to get our body and brain to be relaxed enough to fall asleep. If you can’t bear to turn it off then set it to silent and try to get a quick 20 minute nap in.

   5 Facts About Sleeping That You Didn’t Know About

   1. You can’t dream while napping

      If you are sleeping the recommended time for napping then you shouldn’t be able to dream.

   2. If you do dream you may be sleep deprived

      The only way you can dream is if you take a 90 minute nap which is not as recommended.

   3. Not all naps are the same

      Taking a 20 to 30 minute nap will make you feel energized while a 60 minute nap will make you feel more rejuvenated albeit somewhat groggy.

   4. REM sleep is the most important stage when sleeping

      REM sleep is very beneficial to cognitive function and can be achieved through longer naps.

   5. You have REM sleep during a 90 minute nap

      90 to 120 minute naps encompass all stages of sleep including REM sleep.

   Why We Love National Napping Day

   1. It’s super healthy for you

      There are so many health benefits to napping that may make you think twice next time you decide to skip a nap, including increased awareness, brain performance and a decrease in stress. One of the biggest benefits is that it keeps your heart healthy. People who nap reduce the risk of heart disease and heart related death. Now we can definitely say we heart National Napping Day!

   2. They put you in a better mood

      When we’re tired we are more prone to mood swings, irritability, and impulsivity, but with a short nap you can wake up feeling brand new! Studies show that taking short afternoon naps can make you feel more happy and it can even improve your sex life.

   3. Gives us a reason to relax

      Let's face it, we’re sleep deprived! Sometimes we can get caught up in our busy day to day lives and our crazy schedules. All it takes is a 20 to 30 minute nap to feel energized for the rest of the day. National Napping Day is the perfect day to let yourself hit the snooze button.

[LydiaN586309]

TODAY IS.....

National Read Across America Day – March 2, 2020

March 2 is National Read Across America Day, a day to celebrate our favorite activity. The day was established by the National Education Association (NEA) in 1998 to help get kids excited about reading. The day occurs each year on the birthday of beloved children’s book author Dr. Seuss, so a perfect way to celebrate is to don a Seussian hat and read one his famous tales, like One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish. On National Read Across America Day, students, teachers, parents, and community members around the nation come together to read books and celebrate the joy of reading — join us!

NATIONAL READ ACROSS AMERICA DAY ACTIVITIES

1. Make a date with a book

   When you have a good book, you’re never alone. Celebrate National Read Across America day by taking your favorite book for a coffee, glass of wine, or even out to dinner. Sit at the bar or at a table for two and get lost in your book while out in public.

2. Go to a reading

   Groups around the country host readings on National Read Across America day. Check out what your local libraries and bookstores have on offer, and if you have kids, see what their schools are planning. Some events may be looking for volunteers to read out loud to kids — what a treat (and a gift).

3. Have a birthday party for Dr. Seuss

   Invite friends over to celebrate Dr. Seuss and reading! Have Seuss-themed snacks — butter-side down toast, green eggs and ham — and have friends read selections from their favorite Seuss books.

WHY WE LOVE NATIONAL READ ACROSS AMERICA DAY

1. Reading is exciting

   Reading takes us to exciting new places, enchanted lands, and even faraway galaxies. When we read, we can be detectives, explorers, and heroes. Ever stayed up late to finish a book by flashlight under your covers? Or missed your bus stop because you were so engrossed in a chapter? Reading adds excitement to our lives!

2. Reading makes us smarter 

   Did you know that reading actually increases your brain power? It’s true! Regular reading can slow the decline of memory and brain function that comes with age. And of course, as Dr. Seuss says, “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go.”

3. Reading is relaxing

   Even reading for just six minutes can reduce stress, according to research. In fact, reading is more calming than listening to music or going on a walk! Curling up with a good book and cup of tea (or another favorite beverage) is one of life’s great joys — and relaxers.

[DaveMcK]

It’s Mardi Gras time, arguably one the best celebrations in the world. It stretches from Twelfth Night (the last night of Christmas) all the way until Ash Wednesday. Mardi Gras is French for “Fat Tuesday” to reflect the practice of eating rich, fatty foods before the ritual fasting of the Lenten season. It’s also a time to bring out those colorful beads and masks and party! This celebration goes on in many parts of the world in various forms. So get out there and join the Mardi Gras celebrations on February 25, and party with the world!  

 TUESDAY HISTORY

The roots of the celebration have been woven together for centuries from medieval spring festivals and feasts that were based on the Christian calendar.  Fat Tuesday is celebrated around the world in its various forms all of which harken back to these roots of spring festivals and religious fasting in preparation for the Holy day of Easter.

Credit for bringing Mardi Gras to America goes to French explorers Pierre Le Moyne Sieur d’Iberville and Jean Baptiste Le Moyne Sieur de Bienville. In 1699, d’Iberville reached the mouth of the river on Shrove Tuesday near what is now Louisiana and named it Pointe du Mardi Gras.

Thanks to their establishment of Fort Louis de la Mobile, modern-day Mobile, Alabama lays claim to the first Mardi Gras celebration on American soil in 1703.

When de Bienville established Nouvelle Orleans in 1788, Mardi Gras celebrations reportedly began immediately. In 1875, Louisiana declared Fat Tuesday an official holiday.

What is Fat Tuesday?

Fat Tuesday is another name for Shrove Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday. It begins the season of Lent for Christians. Fat Tuesday falls on February 25, 2020.

What happens on Fat Tuesday?

Traditionally, Lent is a period of fasting. So on Fat Tuesday one is supposed to bulk up on fatty, rich foods that you do not eat during the Lenten time. That’s one of the reasons pancakes and fastnachts (which contain fat, sugar and eggs) are often eaten on the holiday.

The day also marks the end of shrovetide or Carnival (or Carnaval), which is the week leading up to Lent.

Fat Tuesday is about readying oneself for Lent, not just by feasting before a fast. For Christians, it is a time to reflect, confess and ready one's spirit for the forty days of repentance that is Lent.

“To shrive” is to hear confessions. Thus, Shrove Tuesday is a day of feasting as well as penance.

Does it have any other names?

It is also called Mardi Gras, which means Fat Tuesday in French. It is referred to as Fastnacht Day in Germany - meaning “the eve of the fast” - and Fetter Dienstag. In England, it is also called Pancake Tuesday because of the traditional pancake meal that occurs on that day.

Why Fastnacht Day?

Some of us like to name our days after the food we consume. Shrove Tuesday is the day where many people eat a Pennsylvania Dutch doughnut, called fastnacht. Fastnachts have been a Pennsylvania Dutch tradition for generations and were originally designed as a way to use up all the lard in the house before the beginning of Lent. 

How do you spell fastnacht?

Fastnacht is pretty common, but fausnacht, fauschnaut, faschnacht, fassenacht and fosnacht are also acceptable. Feel free to invent your own version for added confusion.

How fattening are they? 

Depends on the recipe. Fat grams can range from about 7 to 12 per fastnacht. Some say the calorie count is as low as 200. Others say it's nearly 500.

[LydiaN586309]

TODAY IS.......

National Chili Day – February 27, 2020

On February 27, we celebrate National Chili Day — a moment to pay homage to the legendary dish that brings people together, and can tear them apart. Chili is the ultimate people-pleaser, but it’s also the ultimate cook-off dish. Family recipes are guarded like crown jewels, and secret ingredients are never spoken of above a whisper. And the debates about what makes true chili — beans or no beans? —are fierce! But these are all part of what makes chili such an experience. When chili is being served — perhaps with some chopped onions and shredded cheese on top — everyone comes to the table.

NATIONAL CHILI DAY ACTIVITIES

1. Cook up your favorite chili

   Maybe your go-to recipe is in your head, or maybe it’s earmarked in your favorite cookbook. Maybe you need to call your mom and have her give your step-by-step instructions. However the chili gets on the stove, get it there, and then enjoy a piping hot bowl of the good stuff.

2. Host a chili cook-off

   Everyone, and we mean everyone, has a chili recipe. So invite everyone over and have a chili throw down. Competition will be fierce, but so will your appetites.

3. Go on chili tour

   We mean it when we say that everyone has a chili recipe — that includes the chefs at your favorite restaurants. Find out which spots in your town have chili on the menu, and do your own version of a progressive dinner to find your favorite. Then next year on National Chili Day, you’ll know where to head.

WHY WE LOVE NATIONAL CHILI DAY

1. It's hearty

   Some soups are barely an appetizer, but chili is a meal unto itself. A big bowl of steaming chili can warm you up and satisfy you like few other foods can. It sticks to your bones and keeps you full.

2. Everyone has an opinion

   Secret chili recipes are the stuff of legend — and of deliciousness. The variety in the dish is mind-boggling, and means you’ll never get sick of showing up at a friend’s house and hearing that chili being served. And chili has sprung one of the fiercest food debates there is: do beans belong in chili?

3. It brings people together

   Chili is the ultimate comfort food. You start feeling good the minute you open the door, its spicy aroma wafting through the air. Hold a steaming bowl of the stuff in your hands and you’re on your way to perfect culinary experience. No one misses chili night. It’s informal, cozy, and a time for people to be together.

   AND IT'S ALSO.......

   International Polar Bear Day – February 27, 2020

   

   Polar bears are some of the coolest creatures on the planet, and they live in some of the coldest places on Earth. Each year on February 27 we celebrate these magnificent creatures on International Polar Bear Day. The day was established by Polar Bears International, an organization devoted to preserving polar bears and the sea ice they depend on, to draw global attention to the plight of these magnificent mammals.

   HOW TO OBSERVE INTERNATIONAL POLAR BEAR DAY

   1. Chill out 

      Polar Bears International, the organization that started International Polar Bear Day, encourages friends of polar bears to celebrate by taking part in their Thermostat Challenge by lowering their thermostats on February 27 to reduce carbon emissions (and help the polar bears).

   2. Visit a polar bear

      What better way to celebrate International Polar Bear Day than to see one of these exceptional creatures in action. Check to see if your local zoo features a polar bear exhibit (just a few examples that do: the Bronx Zoo in New York, the San Diego Zoo, and the Oregon Zoo). No polar bears nearby? Checkout highlights from Explore.org’s live cams.

   3. Have a Coke

      Coca-Cola helped polar bears capture our hearts. Polar bears and Coca-Cola seem to have been inseparable since time immemorial—but actually, the relationship began with a French Coca-Cola ad in 1922. By humanizing the polar bear, Coca-Cola made an otherwise scary predator accessible to millions. So crack open a Coke, and say a toast to the best bears.

   WHY INTERNATIONAL POLAR BEAR DAY IS IMPORTANT

   1. Polar Bears aren’t actually white

      Polar bears are exceptional animals. Here’s just one reason to love them: their iconic white coat isn't actually white at all—it's transparent. Polar bears are covered in a thick layer of clear, air-filled fur that luminesces in the light. Underneath all that hair is black skin designed to absorb the warmth of sunlight.

   2. Polar bears are the Michael Phelps of the animal kingdom

      Polar bears may look chubby and lazy, but don't be fooled. The largest land carnivores on Earth are able to swim up to 60 miles at a single stretch—without rest—in search of food.

   3. Polar bears need our help 

      Polar bears live in the Arctic areas of the northern hemisphere, which are being threatened by loss of sea ice from global climate change. Two-thirds of the planet’s polar bears could be gone by 2050, and scientists estimate the bears could be extinct by 2100.

[LydiaN586309]

It's..................

And since the little runt didn't see his shadow today, we will be blessed with six more weeks of winter.  Or so the story goes!

[DaveMcK]

National Croissant Day – January 30, 2020

Post navigation

While most of us know it as a french speciality, the croissant actually originated in Austria under the name “kipferls”. Marie Antoinette first introduced the Austrian pastry to France when she married into the royal family and requested the simple cake in the crescent shape of her homeland. The French bakers created fancier versions of “kipferls” and thus, the croissant was born. In France, the croissant has become more sophisticated, influenced by the cuisine style of its country. At it’s most basic level, it’s a frugal kind of breakfast pastry, made from pâte feuilletée (soft flour of flour, yeast, butter, milk and salt). On January 30, we annually recognize National Croissant Day, so channel your inner Parisian baker today and say “oui” to these buttery treats!

[DaveMcK]

January 9, 2020 – NATIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT APPRECIATION DAY 

Across the country on January 9th each year, citizens take the lead to show support on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. 

Law Enforcement Officers of every rank and file have chosen a profession that puts their life on the line every day for their communities.  They’ve answered a call to public service that is demanding and often unappreciated.

From local, state and federal, their duties command dedication. The jobs are often thankless and take them away from their families for long hours. Rarely do they know what their days have in store for them. Often law enforcement are the only paid emergency resource a community has. More often they work in coordination with other local, state, and federal organizations to make communities safer.

On National Law Enforcement Day, we have an opportunity to thank them for their service and offer a token of respect.

#LawEnforcementAppreciationDay

There are several ways to show your support. Send a note of thanks to your local, county or state police agency. Wear blue, turn your social media channels blue or shine a blue porch light to show your support. Find more ideas at Concerns of Police Survivors and share your support using #LawEnforcementAppreciationDay to share on social media.  

NATIONAL LAW ENFORCEMENT APPRECIATION DAY HISTORY

Several organizations came together to create National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day in 2015 to thank officers across the country for all the daily sacrifices they make for their communities. Some of the organizations supporting the observance include:

• Concerns of Police Survivors
• FBI National Academy Associates
• Fraternal Order of Police
• International Association of Chief of Police
• Officer Down Memorial Page
• Law Enforcement United
• National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund
• International Conference of Police Chaplains
• National Troopers Coalition

Since then the inaugural celebration, nationwide many more organizations have joined forces to support National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day (L.E.A.D.) to spread encouragement and respect to these dedicated men and women.

[LydiaN586309]

Thanks, Dave!

[LydiaN586309]

Did you know that today is...

National Bagel Day – January 15, 2020

What is National Bagel Day?

National Bagel Day is January 15. Bagels have a history that is richer than your favorite cream cheese spread! These rounds of dough can be found just about anywhere: breakfast joints, coffee shops, supermarkets, or even your kitchen pantry. In fact, 2018 saw more than 354 million bagels sold. 

National Bagel Day History

Bagels have a long and highly documented history that travels from the Jewish families of Poland in the 1600s to wrapped up in parchment paper in your hands today. And, unlike many things created nearly five-hundred years ago, bagels are remarkably unchanged. Sure, cream cheeses and butters and flavors and toppings may have evolved over time but bagel is a beigel is a beygal. 

Bagels made the jump to America with a massive Polish-Jewish immigration in the 1800s that firmly entrenched itself in New York City where it thrived. In fact, an entire union was created in the early 1900s called Bagel Bakers Local 338 to support the growing, immigrant-led industry. That also begat the “bagel brunch,” that we still enjoy to this day with little to no changes: lox, cream cheese, capers, tomatoes, and red onions. 

While bagels were hugely popular in New York City almost immediately, they didn’t make their way to the national scale until the mid 20th-century where automation and bread slicing (the coolest thing!) made mass manufacturing much more efficient. Since then, bagels have taken off to include a variety of flours, toppings, dips and smears but still remain – by and large – exactly as they were in the 1600s. 

National Bagel Day timeline

1950s Bagels Become An American Staple

Bagels are sold in supermarkets across the nation and surpass the donut as an essential breakfast item.

Early 1900's New York Icon

Over this century, the popularity of bagels spread through the growing Eastern European and Jewish-immigrant communities in New York City.

1610 New Baby, New Bagel

The first known written records about bagels appears in Krakow, Poland which dictated that bagels should be gifted to women soon after childbirth.

1300s The First Bagel Appears

The beginnings of the modern bagel can be traced to the Polish obwarzanek, a thin, boiled, then baked ring of dough.

Traditions of National Bagel Day

Eat a bagel

Pretty easy! Head to your local bakery and take a big ole bite into a yummy, warm, crispy, doughy, bagel with your favorite toppings!

Bake a bagel

Surprisingly simple and rather enjoyable, there’s nothing that tastes or smells better than freshly baked bagels straight out of the oven. A great activity for you and your loved ones. 

Give a bagel

Considering that the initial written context of bagels came as a traditional gift for pregnant women, this will go great at any maternity ward! Or, just give it to someone you know who lives bagels. 

National Bagel Day FAQs

When is National Bagel Day?

National Bagel Day is every year on January 15. 

Should I eat a bagel on National Bagel Day?

We recommend eating bagels as often as possible, but especially so on National Bagel Day. 

What's the difference between a bagel and a donut?

Bagels are actually a type of bread, which is different than a donut, which is a type of fried dough. 

National Bagel Day Activities

1. Have a bagel at every meal

   Take this day as an opportunity to appreciate the versatility of the bagel, and feel free to use it as an excuse to try as many flavors as you would like!

2. Share the bagel love

   What office, classroom, or group of friends doesn't love bagels? Scope out your local bagel shops for exclusive National Bagel Day deals and spring for a dozen delicious bagels to share.

3. Find the best bagel in town

   Everyone has their favorite bagel place, so maybe it's time to figure out which one is the best. Maybe each place has its own specialty bagel — be adventurous and try it out!

Why We Love National Bagel Day

1. There are countless varieties

   Have you ever walked into a bagel shop and noticed all the different flavors available? From bagels weaved with cinnamon raisin swirl to the classic everything bagel, there is always a variety to satisfy your sweet or savory cravings.

2. Bagels are versatile

   Many of us have had bagels for breakfast, but how about as a deli sandwich or maybe a pizza bagel? The chewy and dense texture make bagels a perfect vehicle for toppings, spreads, anything else delicious you can think of!

3. They are convenient

   You can find bagels at grocery stores, coffee shops, and even gas stations. You can eat them toasted or just plain. Either way, they are still a delicious and easy choice when you are on-the-go.

[DaveMcK]

Well What is Special about January 2, 2020 is ...

• 2nd day of the year. There are then 364 days left in 2020.
• 1st Thursday of 2020.
• on the 1st week of 2020 (using US standard week number calculation).
• 12th day of Winter. There are 78 days left till Spring.
• Birthstone for this day: Garnet

January 2, Zodiac Sign

Capricorn

January 2, 2020 United States Holidays & Popular Observances

• January 2, is the 9th of the 12 days of the Christmas Season (Twelvetide).

January 2, 2020 Popular Holidays & Observances Worldwide

• Public Holiday - New Zealand
• Bank Holiday - Canada
• Berchtold Day (Berchtoldstag) - Switzerland
• Guru Govind Singh Jayanti (गुरु गोबिंद सिंह जयंती) - India
• New Year Day Holiday - Cuba, Moldova, Romania & Serbia
• Scotland: New Year's Holiday - United Kingdom
• Black and White Carnival (Carnaval de Negros y Blancos Comienza) - Colombia

[LydiaN586309]

Giving Tuesday – December 3, 2019

What is Giving Tuesday?
Every year, on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, people take the time to kickoff the holiday season by giving back to their community. Whether it be donating money to a charitable cause or volunteering, Giving Tuesday is a day set to benefit the community. 

History of Giving Tuesday
The idea of Giving Tuesday was first announced in September 2012, two months prior to the first Giving Tuesday occurring on November 27. The announcement was made by Giving Tuesday founding partner and technology website, Mashable. The purpose of the day is to inspire people and companies to take action, just like Black Friday and Cyber Monday created a framework for retailers to sell merchandise. Other Giving Tuesday founders and partners include Skype, Cisco, Microsoft, Sony, Aldo, Case Foundation, Heifer International, Phoenix House, and Starwood Hotels. Shortly before and after November 27, 2012, Giving Tuesday was covered by Washington Post, the White House official blog, ABC News, and Huffington Post. Forbes also used the occasion to publish a guide on effective giving.

In 2013, Mashable partnered with Google+ to hold a “hangout-a-thon” for Giving Tuesday. The holiday received coverage in many philanthropy information websites, including the Chronicle of Philanthropy and Charity Navigator. The December 4 Chronicle of Philanthropy article highlighted a donation by Good Ventures to GiveDirectly, Google’s hangout-a-thon, and matching grants announced by the Case Foundation. Charitable giving on Giving Tuesday in 2013 was approximately twice the value in 2012, with over 7,000 participating nonprofits.

For the 2018 holiday occurrence, Facebook and PayPal announced they’d match up to $7 million in donations to United States nonprofits on a first come first serve basis. The match limit was hit after only an hour, with an announcement saying the match was achieved within seconds. A total of $125 million was raised via Facebook on Giving Tuesday, the highest for a single day on the platform.

Giving Tuesday Activities
Donate to your favorite charity
With an abundance of causes to support, there are many options for people to donate to charity. You can mail in a check, drop off some money, or even click 'Donate' from the comfort of your desk.

Volunteer
We sometimes forget that one helpful way of giving back is by volunteering. Contact a local hospital, shelter, or nonprofit ahead of time and see how you can help.

Donate clothes/shoes
That sweater you swore you would wear this fall (and never saw the daylight), can be of use to someone in need. Go through your closet and donate any articles of clothing you know you're not going to wear again (or ever).

Why We Love Giving Tuesday
It makes us feel good
Whether you admit it or not, the holiday season can get the best of us. Especially when our main stressors are what gift to get that certain family member. If we splurge on materialist goods, giving back to a charitable cause takes some of that guilt away.

We can help those in need
By volunteering at a local community center, or donating money to your favorite organization, we're are able to help those in need. You can provide a warm meal at the local soup kitchen, or even clean drinking water by donating $5.

Anyone can participate
You don't have to be rich or in the Peace Corps to participate in Giving Tuesday, every small act counts. Donating $1 can make a huge impact on any cause.

[LydiaN586309]

National Christmas Lights Day – December 1, 2019

U.S.National Christmas Lights Day 2019 — December 1
Time to deck the halls, folks, because December 1 is National Christmas Lights Day! Before the invention of electric lights, families would balance candles on the branches of their Christmas trees—a risky practice that naturally led to several house fires. Electric Christmas lights were first invented in 1880 by Thomas Edison, who promptly strung them all over the outside of his Menlo Park laboratory. Because people were initially distrustful of electricity, however, it took another several decades for the invention to catch on. And it wasn’t until 1903, when General Electric began selling pre-assembled kits of Christmas lights, that electric lights became popular with people of all classes. Today, electric lights are an integral part of the winter holiday season, and certainly aren’t exclusive to Christmas. As we get ready for the end of the year, let’s string up our lights and celebrate. ‘Tis the season, after all.

National Christmas Lights Day Activities
Take a Christmas lights walk
Bundle up in your winter coat and take a walk through your neighborhood to enjoy the lights on display. Or, if there’s a place in your hometown that’s notorious for grandiose light displays, take a trip over there to check them out. It’s a great way to stay connected with your community, get exercise, and just enjoy the beauty of the winter season.

Coordinate with your neighbors
If you feel like putting on a big scene with your neighbors, you can collaborate on a specific design together. Whether it’s a repeated motif or an extended scene, this is a great way to exercise your creativity and have a great time with your neighbors. And as a bonus, you might end up going viral thanks to some passer-by with a smartphone.

Set your lights to music
This was a trend a few years ago, but we maintain that it’s still a classic Christmas project. If you’ve got the know-how (or know someone who does), you can set your lights to flash to the beat of your favorite song.

Why We Love National Christmas Lights Day
They’re beautiful
There’s something about the look of Christmas lights shining on a cold winter’s night that captures the imagination. You’re instantly transported back to your childhood, back when magic was real and life was a lot less complicated. Whether they shine against a blanket of snow or glimmer from the trunk of a palm tree, Christmas lights have their own special kind of beauty.

They keep you warm
Anyone who has ever singed their hand on a bulb that’s been burning too long knows this to be true. Sure, a roaring log fire might be a more efficient way to keep warm (or heck, even a furnace), but in case you don’t have either of those things, curl up next to a bright strand of Christmas lights and warm on up. (Just be careful not to touch them).

They make a great family puzzle
At some point during the months leading up to December, the Christmas lights will inevitably become tangled. It doesn’t matter how carefully you put them away the year before—they will always be tangled when you bring them out again. So rather than be miserable and grumpy about it, gather the family together and turn the Great Untangling into a game! Build up your hand-eye coordination and your strategic thinking skills as you get ready to “step into Christmas.”

[LydiaN586309]

World AIDS Day – December 1, 2019

WorldWorld AIDS Day 2019 — December 1

First recognized in 1988, World AIDS Day falls on December 1 each year. World AIDS Day is dedicated to spreading awareness of the AIDS pandemic spread by the spread of HIV infection, and to mourning those who have died of the disease. An estimated 40 million people worldwide have died of AIDS since 1981, and an estimated 37 million are living with HIV, making it one of the most important global public health issues in recorded history. Despite recent improvements in treatment, the AIDS epidemic still claims an estimated two million lives each year, of which more than 250,000 are children.

World AIDS Day timeline
2013
"A Functional Cure"
12 of 75 people treated in a French study were “functionally cured” of HIV, not experiencing a return of the virus even after stopping antiretroviral therapy
1987
First Antiretrival Drugs
AZT (zidovudine) is the first drug available to treat HIV.
1986
1M Americans Impacted
Accordingto reporting in “The New York Times”
1981
U.S. Recognition
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports on AIDS for the first time
1920s
A Pandemic Surfaces
The HIV-1 strain of virus emerged to circulate in Kinshasa, closely related to a virus found in chimpanzees

How to Observe World AIDS Day
Wear a red ribbon
Wearing a red ribbon in your lapel is the most broadly recognized way of showing your support on World AIDS Day. Red symbolizes blood, and the pain caused by the disease, anger about global inaction to fight the epidemic, a warning to take the disease seriously, and a symbol of love, passion, and tolerance towards those affected by the disease. Check online to find a ribbon supplier that supports a charitable cause.

Donate to an AIDS charity
There are a host of national and international nonprofits devoted to fighting the disease and problems associated with its spread. Check online and consider whether you’d like to support an organization in the United States, where deaths have been declining since the mid 1990s but infection continues to affect thousands of people each year, or perhaps an organization focused on infection in Sub-Saharan Africa, where Adult HIV Prevalence has reached 1 in 20 people and 1.2 million people die of HIV/AIDS each year.

Attend a candlelight vigil
Most major cities in the US host candlelight vigils on World AIDS Day as a way of visually commemorating those lost to the disease and vowing to fight it in the future. Check online to find a vigil near you and head along to show your support. Don’t forget to share your experience on social media to ensure that the idea is brought to the front of mind for your friends, and to demonstrate your support.

Why World AIDS Day is Important
AIDS impacts everyone
In its early years, some criticized World AIDS Day for focusing on children and young people, but organizers aimed to alleviate some of the stigma surrounding the disease as primarily affecting gay men, boosting recognition of it as a family disease. HIV/AIDS is the leading cause of death among women of reproductive age,globally,and of 1.8 million new HIV infections in 2016, 43 percent were among women.

Getting to zero
Since 2012, the multi-year theme for World AIDS Day has been achieving zero new HIV infections, zero deaths from AIDS-related illnesses, and zero discrimination. In 2016, new infections among young women aged 15 to 24 were 44% higher than they were among men in the same age group, which suggests the high profile AIDS-related deaths of male celebrities such as Freddie Mercury, Robert Mapplethorpe and Rock Hudson have continued to overshadow realities of new infection rates amongst women in the public imagination. World AIDS Day seeks to challenge those perceptions and protect everyone.

Equalizing access to treatment
Research shows that stigma associated with sex work and LGBT populations, internationally, is a growing factor in unequal access to effective treatment. International AIDS funding began to fall for the first time in 2015, but still, less than half of those suffering with HIV/AIDS have access to anti-retroviral treatment across the world. It’s never been more important to draw attention the inequalities in treatment, in order to stop its spread once and for all.

[LydiaN586309]

National French Toast Day – November 28, 2019

What is National French Toast Day?
No need to wonder about what to make for breakfast on November 28 — it’s National French Toast Day. You know — that thick, sweet, savory dish that’s become a staple of the American breakfast diet. Just writing about this topic has us thinking about heading out for a late breakfast. That’s why we’re so jazzed about National French Toast Day — which, in 2019, falls on the same day as Thanksgiving. French Turkey Toast, anyone?
National French Toast Day history
Here’s the first thing you need to know: The French do not call this French toast. It’s called “pain perdu,” or “lost bread,” because you can literally use stale bread to make it. (Most Americans, however, might find that objectionable.)

French toast, according to Frenchly, comes from a desire to not waste food. Also, please note that it’s a major faux pas to throw bread way. (Bread has religious meaning.) Most experts agree that French toast dates back to ancient Rome. A similar recipe can be found in the book of Apicius from the 5th century BC. The Romans dipped slices of bread in milk (and sometimes eggs) before frying them, and called it “Pan Dulcis.”

Fast forward to the 1400s and you’ll find a similar recipe at the court of Henri V where the “lost bread” attracted many fans. Still, it wasn’t until the mid 17th century that the term “French Toast” appeared in England. Food historians believe the term “French” does not even mean France; instead, it refers to the verb “to French” which means “to slice” in Old Irish.

So, “French toast” is actually “sliced toast.”

Irish settlers traveling to the U.S. and Canada may have brought the term with them. The phrase “French toast” first appeared in The Encyclopedia of American Food and Drink in 1871. However, similar recipes were also called “Egg toast,” “Spanish toast,” and even “German toast.”

There’s another less exotic theory. French toast may have been called “French” because it enabled chefs to inflate the price. “Traditionally in the United States, we have an admiration for French cuisine, which we consider elaborate and gastronomic,” says Kitchen Project Editor-in-Chief Stephen Block. “And that’s probably why this dish was named that way. It’s just marketing. There’s no chance that ‘Lost Bread’ could have worked. And since the dish was successful and the recipe was easy, the name spread.”

[LydiaN586309]

Yes, today is THANKSGIVING DAY!  However and contrarily, today is also....

National Day of Mourning – November 28, 2019

HomeU.S.​National Day of Mourning 2019 – November 28
What is the National Day of Mourning
The National Day of Mourning takes place on the fourth Thursday of November. If this date sounds familiar to you, it’s because the fourth Thursday of November also coincides with Thanksgiving in the U.S. Every year on the National Day of Mourning, Native American people in New England gather together to protest. To them, Thanksgiving serves as a reminder of the unjust treatment that Native Americans have received since the 1620 Plymouth landing.
History of the National Day of Mourning
The National Day of Mourning reminds us all that Thanksgiving is only part of the story. Native Americans, since 1970, have gathered at noon on Cole’s Hill in Plymouth, Massachusetts, to commemorate a National Day of Mourning on Thanksgiving Day.

Pilgrims landed in Plymouth and established the first colony in 1620. As such, it’s the oldest municipality in New England. Many Native Americans, however, don’t celebrate the arrival of the Pilgrims and other European settlers. Thanksgiving, to them, is a brutal reminder of “the genocide of millions of Native people, the theft of Native lands, and the relentless assault on Native culture.”

They participate as a way to honor Native ancestors and the struggles of Native peoples to survive today. “It is a day of remembrance and spiritual connection as well as a protest of the racism and oppression which Native Americans continue to experience.”

The United American Indians of New England (UAINE) sponsors this event. They maintain that the Pilgrims arrived in North America and claimed tribal land for their own, as opposed to establishing a mutually beneficial relationship with the local inhabitants. UAINE members believe that these settlers “introduced sexism, racism, anti-homosexual bigotry, jails, and the class system.”

The National Day of Mourning generally begins at noon and includes a march through the historic district of Plymouth. While the UAINE encourages people of all backgrounds to attend the protests, only Native speakers are invited to give these speeches about the past, as well as current obstacles their people have overcome. Guests are asked to bring non-alcoholic beverages, desserts, fresh fruits and vegetables, or pre-cooked items. The protest is open to anyone, and has attracted other minority activists.

[LydiaN586309]

Of course, we all know today is.....

Thanksgiving 2019 – November 28, 2019

America’s Thanksgiving holiday, born in the 1500s, mythologized in 1621, and observed even during the bleakest hours of the Civil War, now stands as one of the nation’s most anticipated and beloved days — celebrated each year on the fourth Thursday in November (November 28, 2019). Perhaps no other nonsectarian holiday has more tradition. Family, friends, food, and football have come to symbolize Thanksgiving — a rare celebratory holiday without an established gift-giving component. Instead the day urges all of us to be grateful for things we do have.

History of Thanksgiving

This story doesn’t necessarily start with Pilgrims. 

Evidence shows that Spanish explorers and settlers held thanksgiving services during the late 1500s in what is now Florida and New Mexico. Thanksgivings also took place in what became the Commonwealth of Virginia as early as 1607, with the first permanent settlement of Jamestown holding a thanksgiving in 1610.

The ‘First’ Thanksgiving

It wasn’t until a decade later that the Plymouth settlers, known as Pilgrims, arrived in the New World. They celebrated at Plymouth for three days after their first harvest in 1621. The gathering included 50 people who were on the Mayflower (all who remained of the 100 who had landed) and 90 Native Americans. The feast was cooked by the four adult Pilgrim women who survived their first winter in the New World, along with young daughters and other servants.   

****************************************

[LydiaN586309]

TODAY IS...

National Cake Day – November 26, 2019

For 2019, National Cake Day is on Tuesday, November 26. We believe Marie Antoinette said it best when she (allegedly) said “let them eat cake!”

We’re not sure the peasants of 18th century France were too fond of the sentiment but nevertheless we’ll take her advice do just that! 

What is National Cake Day?
Can’t wait for your birthday? Remember, National Cake Day falls on November 26. No one really knows how this holiday came about, but we all know that we all love to eat cake.

National Cake Day History
The term “cake” has a rather complicated history. The word itself is of Viking origin, from the Old Norse word “kaka.”
It’s All Greek to Me!
The ancient Greeks called cake “plakous,” which was derived from the word for “flat.” The simple ingredients include flour mixed with eggs, milk, nuts, and honey. They also had a cake called “satura,” which was a flat heavy cake. During the Roman period, the name for cake became “placenta,” which was derived from the Greek term. A placenta was baked on a pastry base or inside a pastry case.

National Cake Day Activities

Bake a cake
The most obvious and fun way to celebrate National Cake Day is by putting on an apron (or not if you wish to get flour all over your clothes), and preheat your oven! You can make one from scratch or use a little help from little box at the store.

Invite your friends over for a cake decorating contest
You provide the base and they provide the creativity. Invite your friends over for a night full of frosting and laughs, and judge the cakes by the best, worst, and most creative designs.

Let them eat cake (at work)
Everyone loves a nice treat at work. Surprise your co-workers by bringing in a homemade or store-bought cake. When people ask what the occasion is, the answer is simple, "It's National Cake Day, duh!"

[LydiaN586309]

International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women – November 25, 2019

On November 25, 1960, the Mirabal sisters of the Dominican Republic were assassinated by henchmen of dictator Rafael Trujillo. The sisters, who had been active in movements against the Trujillo regime, were beaten and strangled to death, then placed in a Jeep that was driven off a mountainous road in order to make their deaths appear accidental. In December 1999, the United Nations General Assembly designated November 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. The date marks the beginning of 16 days of remembrance and activism, culminating in International Human Rights Day.

According to a report by the United Nations, 19 percent of women between the ages of 15 and 49 years of age have experienced physical and/or sexual violence “by an intimate partner.” In some cases, this violence ends in the women’s death.

International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women timeline

December 17, 1999 The Day Becomes Official

A United Nations resolution establishes November 25 as the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

1981 The Date is Saved

Women attending the Latin American and Caribbean Feminist Encuentros mark November 25 as a day to raise awareness of violence against women.

November 25, 1961 Mirabal sisters Assassinated

Three female Dominican political activists are assassinated. This is the event that will eventually inspire the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women.

How to Observe International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

1. Join the movement

   There are a lot of things you can do to keep the momentum going — from learning the facts about violence against women to organizing meetings, teach-ins and marches to express your support and solidarity.

2. #OrangeTheWorld

   Share photos, messages and videos showing how you "orange the world" alongside other women worldwide. It's all part of a campaign organized by UN Women, the United Nations organization that dedicates itself to gender equality and the continuing empowerment of women.

3. Write an op-ed

   Most local newspapers are happy to accept opinion pieces from readers. Write an op-ed alerting others to the existence of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

   5 Facts About Violence Against Women

   1. It's an epidemic

      An estimated 35 percent of women worldwide have been physically and/or sexually assaulted by a nonpartner.

   2. It's up close and personal

      Some studies show that up to 70 percent of women have experienced violence from an intimate partner.

   3. It's spreading

      Women and girls account for 71 percent of all human trafficking victims.

   4. The numbers are staggering

      More than 1 in 10 females have experienced forced sexual acts in their lives.

   5. Times are changing

      At least 140 countries have laws against domestic violence and sexual harassment.

   Why International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women is Important

   1. It raises awareness

      Every second of every day, women around the world are subjected to violence. Observing this day provides us with the space to recognize the problem and to start taking steps to reduce and, hopefully, eliminate it.

   2. It inspires action

      This day is not only a chance to raise awareness but to create an atmosphere in which women and men can organize together and take direct action to combat the epidemic of violence against women.

   3. It makes the future bright

      Only when women are free from the fear of brutality can we start to create a future in which every person is treated with respect and dignity.

[LydiaN586309]

Today is....

The Great American Smokeout!  November 21, 2019

What is Great American Smokeout?

The American Cancer Society sponsors the Great American Smokeout on the third Thursday of November (November 21, 2019), challenging smokers to give up cigarettes for 24 hours. If you or a loved one smokes cigarettes, consider joining the movement, and take the first step toward quitting cigarettes forever!

History of Great American Smokeout

The inception of the Great American Smokeout stems from a 1970 event in Randolph, Massachusetts. High school guidance councilor Arthur P. Mullaney asked people to give up cigarettes for one day and donate the money they would have spent on buying cigarettes to a high school scholarship fund. A few years later in 1974, newspaper editor Lynn R. Smith led Minnesota’s first Don’t Smoke Day. The two efforts caught on and on November 18, 1976, the California Division of the American Cancer Society got 1 million people to quit smoking for the day. This marked the first official Smokeout before the American Cancer Society took it nationwide in 1977. As a result, there was a dramatic change in the public view of tobacco advertising and use. Many public establishments and work places are now smoke-free to protect non-smokers and support people trying to quit. 

Every year the Great American Smokeout draws attention to preventing deaths and chronic illnesses caused by smoking. From the late 1980s to the 1990s, many state and local governments have raised taxes on cigarettes, limited promotions, discouraged teen cigarette use, and taken further action to counter smoking. States with strong tobacco control laws saw up to a 42% decrease of smoking in adults.

Though smoking rates have dropped, almost 38 million Americans still smoke tobacco, and about half of all smokers will encounter smoking related deaths. Each year, more than 480,000 people in the United States die from a smoking related illness, meaning smoking causes 1 out of 5 deaths in the US alone.

How to Observe Great American Smokeout

1. Make a plan

   Learn about options to curb cravings and get your support system ready to help you through hard times. If you're trying to help someone else quit, check out some ways to ensure you're doing it the right way.

2. Get rid of anything smoking-related

   It's the perfect day to remove all smoking-related items from your home. Remove all cigarettes, ashtrays, and lighters from your car and workplace as well. Also consider stocking up on substitutes like gum and crunchy snacks.

3. Reflect on your smoking past

   If you've tried to quit before, the Great American Smokeout is a good time to reflect on your past attempts. Think about why those attempts didn't work, and go back to the drawing board for the next time around. 

4 Famous Ex-Smokers You Never Knew Smoked At All

1. Gwyneth Paltrow

   The Academy Award-winning actress smoked frequently as a teen and didn't decide to quit until she was pregnant with her first child.

2. ​Barack Obama

   The former president quit with the help of Nicorette ​gum, hoping to set a good example for his daughters.

3. ​Jennifer Aniston

   The "Friends" star quit smoking successfully by turning to yoga and other exercise to keep her mind off of cigarettes.

4. ​Mila Kunis

   The actress admitted she used cigarettes as a way to slim down for her role in "Black Swan," but has since given up the habit.​

Why Great American Smokeout is Important

1. A single day can help people take the first step

   The Great American Smokeout highlights the dangers of smoking tobacco and provides a meaningful way for people to avoid cigarettes. It also offers a comfortable environment for family members and friends to speak about tobacco and how to quit smoking.

2. It brings people together

   Not only does the Great American Smokeout speak to the negative effects of smoking, but it also helps people come together in the name of quitting. People trying to quit can communicate with one another online using the hashtag #GreatAmericanSmokeout, or by attending local events in various cities.

3. It provides resources to quit

   The American Cancer Society's Great American Smokeout website provides resources, news, and stories about the journey to quit smoking. Smokers can find inspiration and tips to increase their chances of quitting successfully.

[LydiaN586309]

TODAY IS....

Mickey Mouse’s Birthday – November 18, 2019

It must be fun to celebrate your birthday when you never age! Mickey Mouse first appeared in the short film “Steamboat Willy” on November 28, 1928. Ever since then, fans all over the world have celebrated this day as his birthday. Mickey reminds us of the magic of childhood — a time when dreams had wings, and our imagination made everything possible. Besides, everyone loves Mickey!

Mickey Mouse’s Birthday timeline 2004 Mickey Goes CGI

"Mickey's Twice Upon a Christmas" featured the character in CGI animation for the first time.

1993 Toontown!

Mickey's Toontown opened at Disneyland. The 1988 Disney film "Who Framed Roger Rabbit" inspired this new part of the Magic Kingdom. The area featured the "Mickey's House and Meet Mickey" attraction.

1987 Ear Force One

The first Mickey Mouse hot air balloon took flight.

1935 Mickey — in color

The first Mickey Mouse film in technicolor, "The Bad Concert," was released. This marked the end of Mickey's black and white era.

1928 From rabbit to mouse

Artist Ub Iwerks modified Oswald Rabbit — turning him into Mickey Mouse. Mickey's big-screen debut came in the feature film "Steamboat Willie."

How to Celebrate Mickey Mouse’s Birthday

1. Put him on your wrist

   Mickey Mouse watches never seem to go out of style. There's even a 90th anniversary edition now available.

2. Visit a Disney resort

   Enjoy music, fireworks, and special snacks as the parks stage a Mickey-themed party.

3. Throw your own party

   How about a Mickey Mouse party for the kids where everyone gets to dress up like Mickey, Minnie, or another Disney character?

5 Things You Never Knew About Mickey Mouse

1. He has a middle name

   Mickey's full name is Michael Theodore Mouse.

2. The secret of this mouse's gloves

   Mickey Mouse wears white gloves so that his hands can be distinguished from his entire body.

3. A friend to presidents

   Most U.S. presidents have posed alongside Mickey, with the notable exception of Lyndon Johnson.

4. "Hot Dogs!"

   Those were the first words Mickey Mouse said. In fact, he was the first cartoon character to speak.

5. Star power

   He is the first cartoon character to earn a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

[LydiaN586309]

TODAY IS......

A Brief History of Veterans Day

Veterans Day, formerly known as Armistice Day, was originally set as a U.S. legal holiday to honor the end of World War I, which officially took place on November 11, 1918. In legislation that was passed in 1938, November 11 was "dedicated to the cause of world peace and to be hereafter celebrated and known as 'Armistice Day.'" As such, this new legal holiday honored World War I veterans.

In 1954, after having been through both World War II and the Korean War, the 83rd U.S. Congress -- at the urging of the veterans service organizations -- amended the Act of 1938 by striking out the word "Armistice" and inserting the word "Veterans." With the approval of this legislation on June 1, 1954, Nov. 11 became a day to honor American veterans of all wars.

In 1968, the Uniforms Holiday Bill ensured three-day weekends for federal employees by celebrating four national holidays on Mondays: Washington's Birthday, Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Columbus Day. Under this bill, Veterans Day was moved to the fourth Monday of October. Many states did not agree with this decision and continued to celebrate the holiday on its original date. The first Veterans Day under the new law was observed with much confusion on Oct. 25, 1971.

Finally on September 20, 1975, President Gerald R. Ford signed a law which returned the annual observance of Veterans Day to its original date of Nov. 11, beginning in 1978. Since then, the Veterans Day holiday has been observed on Nov. 11.

Celebrating the Veterans Day Holiday

If the Nov. 11 holiday falls on a non-workday -- Saturday or Sunday -- the holiday is observed by the federal government on Monday (if the holiday falls on Sunday) or Friday (if the holiday falls on Saturday). Federal government closings are established by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management. State and local government closings are determined locally, and non- government businesses can close or remain open as they see fit, regardless of federal, state or local government operation determinations.

United States Senate Resolution 143, which was passed on Aug. 4, 2001, designated the week of Nov. 11 through Nov. 17, 2001, as "National Veterans Awareness Week." The resolution calls for educational efforts directed at elementary and secondary school students concerning the contributions and sacrifices of veterans.

The difference between Veterans Day and Memorial Day

Memorial Day honors service members who died in service to their country or as a result of injuries incurred during battle. Deceased veterans are also remembered on Veterans Day but the day is set aside to thank and honor living veterans who served honorably in the military - in wartime or peacetime.

President Eisenhower's letter to Harvey V. Higley, Administrator of Veterans' Affairs, designating him Chairman, Veterans Day National Committee

The White House Office

October 8, 1954

Dear Mr. Higley:

I have today signed a proclamation calling upon all of our citizens to observe Thursday, November 11, 1954 as Veterans Day. It is my earnest hope that all veterans, their organizations, and the entire citizenry will join hands to insure proper and widespread observance of this day. With the thought that it will be most helpful to coordinate the planning, I am suggesting the formation of a Veterans Day National Committee. In view of your great personal interest as well as your official responsibilities, I have designated you to serve as Chairman. You may include in the Committee membership such other persons as you desire to select and I am requesting the heads of all departments and agencies of the Executive branch to assist the Committee in its work in every way possible.

I have every confidence that our Nation will respond wholeheartedly in the appropriate observance of Veterans Day, 1954.

Sincerely,

DWIGHT D. EISENHOWER