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]

NATIONAL PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE DAY Each year on October 21st, National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day ushers in the flavors of fall. Cheesecake is one of America’s favorite desserts and by adding pumpkin, we celebrate the essential flavoring of the season.  

This sweet dessert mixes fresh soft cheese, cream cheese or cottage cheese, eggs, and sugar to create a base. The crust is made from crushed graham crackers, crushed cookies, pastry or sponge cake. Pumpkin may be added to cheesecake recipes in various ways. For example, it may be swirled throughout,  mixed thoroughly with all ingredients or layered. Bakers prepare cheesecakes both baked or unbaked. Some bakers flavor cheesecakes and top them with fruit, fruit sauce, chocolate or whipped cream.

When is National Cheesecake Day?

An ancient form of cheesecake may have been a popular dish in ancient Greece. The earliest attested mention of cheesecake is by the Greek physician, Aegimus. He wrote a book on the art of making cheesecakes.

James Kraft developed a form of pasteurized cream cheese in 1912. In 1928, Kraft acquired the Philadelphia trademark and marketed pasteurized Philadelphia Cream Cheese. In fact, bakers us Philadelphia cream cheese more than any other to make cheesecake than any other. 

North America has several different styles of cheesecakes:

• New York-style cheesecake
• Pennsylvania Dutch-style cheesecake
• Philadelphia-style
• Farmer cheese cheesecake
• Country-style cheesecake
• Lactose-free cheesecake
• Cheesecake Kludys
• Chicago Style Cheesecake
• Savory cheesecake

HOW TO OBSERVE #PumpkinCheesecakeDay

Try one of the following recipes to celebrate:

Double Layer Pumpkin Cheesecake
Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
Chocolate Pumpkin Cheesecake Bars
Caramel Pecan Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites
Pumpkin Cheesecake

Use #PumpkinCheesecakeDay to post on social media.

NATIONAL PUMPKIN CHEESECAKE DAY HISTORY

National Day Calendar® continues researching the origins of this sweet dessert. 

[DaveMcK]

NATIONAL CHOCOLATE CUPCAKE DAY – October 18

You know what’s better than a cake? Chocolate cake. You know what’s better than chocolate cake? A chocolate cupcake. That’s right, while we absolutely adore our cake, there’s a certain tug of delightful selfishness in a cake you can consume all to yourself, letting you revel in a little piece of gluttony. Chocolate Cupcake Day reminds us that sometimes it is more than acceptable to have a piece of confectionary delight that we simply don’t share with another, so find yourself a cupcake and make it disappear, just be sure it’s chocolate!

So popular is the idea of a personal cake, a cake of diminutive size, that there have been many different variations on both the style and technique. The invention of the microwave has even created recipes that enable you to mix and cook a cupcake in less than five minutes! Talk about the perfect cake, is there anything better than unabashedly delicious instant gratification? We don’t think so!

It’s worth noting that one needn’t actually bake a cupcake in a cup or even a cupcake tin.

Take, for example, the periodic table of cupcakes. These are cupcakes frosted in colors to match the periodic table of elements and then marked with each of the elements in black frosting. While these have been made in traditional cupcake tins, they have also been made as sheet cakes, cut down to cupcake size, and frosted appropriately!

Cupcakes are really all about the size of the end result, not the method of getting there, and Chocolate Cupcake Day tells you to indulge in every variation, as long as it contains chocolate!

History of Chocolate Cupcake Day

Chocolate Cupcake Day was established to celebrate that most perfect form of the Cupcake, the Chocolate Cupcake. Cupcakes are called by many names throughout the world, our personal favorite would have to be the term “Fairy Cake” from the British. The origin of the cupcake seems to go back as far as 1796, where cakes cooked in small cups were first mentioned, and the actual term cupcake was first seen in Eliza Leslie’s 1828 cookbook.

Following that, there was a bit of a lull in the cupcake scene. But in 1919, food company Hostess began making what we would recognize today as the first mass-produced cupcake, popularizing the concept. Interestingly, the company’s cakes weren’t a flash in the pan. They remain its most popular brand, beating out Twinkies, selling more than 600 million per year. 

In the 1950s, British prime minister Winston Churchill suggested that manufacturers update cupcakes. Instead of making them with just dried fruit and spices, he suggested adding icing sugar. Later in his life, he blamed the humble cupcake for his jowl. 

However, the real hey-day of cupcakes wasn’t the 1950s, but the 2000s. The decade saw a flurry of activity on the cupcake scene, with recipes published in major newspapers and commercial outlets introducing new lines. In 2005, Sprinkles Cupcakes opened the world’s first cupcake-only bakery. It now sells more than 25,000 cupcakes per day across eleven stores. 

So popular is the idea of a personal cake, a cake of diminutive size, that there have been many different variations on both the style and technique. The invention of the microwave has even created recipes that enable you to mix and cook a cupcake in less than five minutes! Talk about the perfect cake, is there anything better than unabashedly delicious instant gratification? We don’t think so!

It’s worth noting that one needn’t actually bake a cupcake in a cup or even a cupcake tin.

Take, for example, the periodic table of cupcakes. These are cupcakes frosted in colors to match the periodic table of elements and then marked with each of the elements in black frosting. While these have been made in traditional cupcake tins, they have also been made as sheet cakes, cut down to cupcake size, and frosted appropriately!

Cupcakes are really all about the size of the end result, not the method of getting there, and Chocolate Cupcake Day tells you to indulge in every variation, as long as it contains chocolate!

How to celebrate Chocolate Cupcake Day

Here’s an idea: indulge yourself in the most delicious of cupcakes, the chocolate cupcake when Chocolate Cupcake Day comes around. It should hardly require any encouragement to have you scarfing up all the delicious chocolate cupcakes you can find, and on Chocolate Cupcake Day, there is certainly nothing wrong with indulging in chocolate cupcakes at every meal!

If you love experimenting in the kitchen, you might also want to check out a range of chocolate-themed recipes. Additional flavor options include coffee, peanut butter, cherry cola, orange cream, strawberry, and salted caramel. These ingredients add a new dimension to your baking and allow you to enjoy chocolate complemented by other delicious flavors. 

Another idea is to host a chocolate cupcake party. Here, each person brings along a chocolate-themed cupcake with them, and you can sample each other’s recipes. What type of chocolate cake will you make? Double-chocolate with choccy sponge and icing? What about a triple chocolate version that also has chocolate drops mixed into the batter? Having a tea party lets you share ideas and get new inspiration for the kitchen. 

Chocolate Cupcake Day also has a significant social media presence. Those interested can share information about the day through Facebook and Instagram accounts and link people to relevant pages. 

Chocolate cupcakes are more than just food to delight the taste buds, though. They’re also something that helps many people push through the struggles and strains of life. The comfort of a delicious cupcake is something that you can enjoy in the evening after a busy day. One idea, therefore, is to use the day to write a blog post about what makes chocolate cupcakes so important to you. You don’t even have to include a recipe if you don’t want to. It can be a simple conversation about your experience with this popular, hand-held food item, and how it has helped you in the past. 

Finally, if you have a killer chocolate cupcake recipe, you can share this with the people you know online. If you’ve made something so delicious that nobody can resist, then don’t keep it to yourself: share it! Or if you want to direct people to your site, post it! 

Chocolate Cupcake Day, therefore, is about more than just eating. It is also about celebrating the genius invention of the cupcake. There’s nothing more enjoyable than sitting down to one of these delectable sweets and knowing it is all yours. 

[DaveMcK]

Whether you’re dining in Istanbul, relaxing on a beach in the Caribbean, working on a farm in Kansas or walking the avenues of Washington, D.C. there are cats who need your help.

Millions of community cats, or feral cats who live outdoors, are killed each year in animal shelters after people take them there.

They don’t realize these cats live and thrive outdoors. Owned, adoptable cats are at risk, too. When they end up at animal shelters, they are often killed because the shelter lacks the space, resources, and programs to care for them. For this and so many reasons, Alley Cat Allies is here to protect cats.

GLOBAL CAT DAY

Global Cat Day on October 16th raises awareness surrounding non-lethal feline programs across the country. More than any other shelter animal, cats and kittens face euthanization at a much higher rate. However, programs such as trap, neuter, and release (TNR) are making it possible for cats to live full and healthy lives right in our neighborhoods. 

TNR programs aim to reduce shelters and overall colony populations across the country. TNR programs trap feral and stray cats. They are then neutered and vaccinated under the care of a veterinarian. Their ears are tipped to identify that they have been neutered. Then the cat is released back into the neighborhood where they were captured.

Long-term studies across the country show that not only does the population decline, but the cats live out their lives healthily. Additionally, these programs save taxpayers money over time.

• Reduces animal service calls
• Lessens the burden on shelters
• Neighborhoods become quieter – mating behavior decreases

Why Adoption Doesn’t Always Work

Feral cats – cats that have never had human contact – don’t associate well with humans. They will always be feral and unable to be adopted. Feral cats prefer the wild. A TNR program offers them the best chance of living side by side with humans.

However, adoption is still a viable option for stray cats and kittens under 12 weeks of age. Visit your local shelter if you are seeking a pet of your own.

HOW TO OBSERVE #GlobalCatDay

Learn more about TNR programs. Donate or volunteer to support a program near you. Help protect and control the cat population in your neighborhood in a humane way. Share information about TNR programs to make a difference. 

Visit AlleyCats.org to find out more.  Use #GlobalCatDay to post on social media.

GLOBAL CAT DAY HISTORY

Global Cat Day (2017) took the place of National Feral Cat Day, which was initiated by Alley Cat Allies in 2001.

[DaveMcK]

NATIONAL YORKSHIRE PUDDING DAY

National Yorkshire Pudding Day is observed across the United States each year on October 13th. Yorkshire Pudding has been a big family favorite here since my dad's family immigrated here to Blair, Nebraska in 1912 from South Shields,  England. My Grandfather was a Congregational Minister and worked with Native Americans in  Nebraska. The family ended up in Wisconsin in 1928. The pudding came along with my Grandmother. My mother kept up the tradition of having it on Christmas day. My wife Mary did it for years and our oldest daughter fixes it now. I'm sure it will not be fixed this year.

Not to be confused with a dessert, Yorkshire Pudding is a traditional English dish similar to a popover. The dish is made from a batter and usually served with roast meat and gravy.

Cooks in the north of England devised a means of making use of the fat that dropped into the dripping pans. They created a batter pudding while the meat roasted in the oven.  In 1737, one such cook published a recipe for “A Dripping Pudding” in The Whole Duty of a Woman. 

Make a good batter as for pancakes: put in a hot toss-pan over the fire with a bit of butter to fry the bottom a little then put the pan and butter under a shoulder of mutton, instead of a dripping-pan, keeping frequently shaking it by the handle and it will be light and savoury, and fit to take up when your mutton is enough; then turn it in a dish and serve it hot. ~ From The Whole Duty of a Woman.

In 1747, Hannah Glasse published similar instructions in The Art of Cookery Made Plain and Easy. She named the recipe ‘Yorkshire Pudding.’ Glasse received credit for re-inventing and renaming the original version of ‘A Dripping Pudding.”

These savory popovers open up a world of possibilities when it comes to fillings. While gravy is traditional, don’t hesitate to add cheese, eggs, your favorite protein, or an herby filling. If you have more of a sweet tooth, don’t hesitate to stray from the traditional by adding chocolate, caramel, or a cream cheese filling.

HOW TO OBSERVE #YorkshirePuddingDay

Of course, celebrating the day requires eating Yorkshire Pudding. You’re likely to find it served in a pub-like setting on the East Coast. However, we also have recipes to share. With cooler weather, a Yorkshire pudding smothered in gravy sounds like a meal to serve to family and friends. It’s a perfect way to Celebrate Every Day®! We highly recommend it. 

Quick and Easy Yorkshire Pudding
Yorkshire Pudding

And, as always, share your favorite restaurant, recipe or celebration with us using #YorkshirePuddingDay to post on social media.

NATIONAL YORKSHIRE PUDDING DAY HISTORY

National Day Calendar continues researching the origins of this savory food holiday.

[DaveMcK]

NATIONAL SAUSAGE PIZZA DAY

Food lovers across the country enjoy National Sausage Pizza Day on October 11th each year. Whether served on a thin or thick crust, sausage pizza goes well with other toppings, too. Don’t hesitate to add mushrooms and a variety of cheeses. What’s even better about sausage pizza are the different kinds of sausage to choose from.

While Italian sausage may be preferred, try experimenting. Add more garlic or try additional spice. Try smoky sausages such as chorizo or even a kielbasa visit with your local butcher for sausage suggestions. They’ve probably been smoking up the latest experiment just for you to try.

Sausage comes in many combinations, too. Lighter forms and different ages offer flavors that complement our toppings. A little sweet with the savory creates a modern taste experience.

Sautéd onions add amazing flavor to sausage pizza. While cooking up the onions add a few portabella mushrooms to the pan. Once you’ve added them to your pizza, sprinkle the top with feta cheese and fresh basil. You won’t regret it.

Pizza Facts

• In ancient Greece, the Greeks covered their bread with oils, herbs, and cheese, which some attribute to the beginning of the pizza.
• In Byzantine Greek, the word was spelled “πίτα,” pita, meaning pie.
• The Romans developed a pastry with a sheet of dough topped with cheese and honey, then flavored with bay leaves.
• The modern pizza had its beginning in Italy as the Neapolitan flatbread.
• The original pizza used only mozzarella cheese, mainly the highest quality buffalo mozzarella variant. It was produced in the surroundings of Naples.
• An estimated 2 billion pounds of pizza cheese was produced in the United States in 1997.
• The first United States pizza establishment opened in New York’s Little Italy in 1905.

HOW TO OBSERVE #SausagePizzaDay

Invite friends and family over for homemade sausage pizza. Or go out for your favorite kind of sausage pizza and make it a celebration. While you’re out and about, be sure to give a shout out to your favorite establishment. Do you like thin or thick crust? How do you eat your pizza? Crust first, point first or do you fold it? We want to know. Everyone has their own pizza-eating styles.

Onion and Sausage Pizza
Chicago Deep Dish Sausage Pizza

Use #SausagePizzaDay to post on social media.

Do you want to know more? Check out these 5 Amazing Pizza World Records.

NATIONAL SAUSAGE PIZZA DAY HISTORY

National Day Calendar® continues researching the origins of this delicious food holiday. 

[DaveMcK]

From Carriage Dogs to Fire Pups

October 1, 2020 – NATIONAL FIRE PUP DAY 

O Old-fashioned ld-fashioned engine dog via flickr/candiedwomanire

Before there were fire pups, there were carriage dogs. A few hundred years ago, dogs were trained to trot alongside horse-drawn wagons and protect their occupants (and horses) from harm.

Although a “carriage dog” is not a specific breed, certain breeds were more suited to the lifestyle. A carriage dog needed a few key features:

• Long legs and a sturdy body
• Energy and motivation
• Endurance to keep up on a long journey
• A good temperament and high level of obedience

Enter the Dalmatian. According to the American Kennel Club’s Complete Dog Book, quoted on the Dalmatian Club of America website, Dalmatians were the perfect carriage dogs because they have the “strength, vitality, fortitude and size to keep going gaily til the journey’s end.” Dalmatians also happened to have a reputation for getting along great with horses, and it wasn’t long before they became the favored carriage dog among wealthy citizens of England and America.

When horse-drawn fire carriages hit the scene in the late 1700s, carriage dogs became fire pups. Dalmatians were perfectly suited for the job, not only because of their carriage-trailing abilities but their grace under fire. Dalmatians were known to have a calming effect on horses (source), so while firefighters battled a blaze, the fire dog could stay with the horses ease their stress. Back at the station, the fire dog would typically bunk in the stable alongside their equine charges.

NATIONAL FIRE PUP DAY

National Fire Pup Day on October 1st recognizes the canine firefighters that have long been members of fire departments across the country.

While the Dalmation’s origin is unknown, their use in firehouses began during the 1700s. Trained as a carriage dog, the Dalmatian’s agility transferred quickly to horse-drawn fire engines. Even though Dalmations weren’t the only dogs fit for carriage work, they were the ones who mostly filled the role of fire dogs. They were also easily identified by their spotted and speckled coats.

In the days of the horse-drawn fire carts, they provided a valuable service, having a natural affinity to horses. The Dalmatians duty was to run alongside the horses. They ran in front of or beneath the wagon axles clearing the way.

Long after the red engines replaced horse-drawn wagons, the Dalmatian remains a recognizable tradition in fire stations across the country. These energetic firehouse mascots serve to educate the public about fire safety. They also represent past fire pup in honor of their heroism.   

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalFirePupDay

Learn more about fire pup history. Visit rover.com to learn more. Use #NationalFirePupDay to post on social media.

NATIONAL FIRE PUP DAY HISTORY

National Day Calendar® continues researching the origin of this fire fighting heritage day.

[DaveMcK]

National Coffee Day – September 29, 2020

While the U.S. and Canada celebrate National Coffee Day on September 29, other nations mark this day throughout the calendar. International Coffee Day happens just two days later on October 1. The International Coffee Organization has pledged to help struggling coffee farmers worldwide make a living wage.

FREE COFFEE AND COFFEE DAY DEALS

Here’s where to find the best deals on National Coffee Day 2020:

Krispy Kreme

Krispy Kreme is the place to be this National Coffee Day as all guests will receive a free brewed coffee, with no purchase necessary. If you’re a reward member then it’s even better, you’ll be able to grab a free brewed coffee and a free doughnut.

High Brew Coffee

Get your fingers and thumbs at the ready because on September 29 at 2PM in every timezone High Brew Coffee will be offering a limited number of free product coupons that can be used in named retail outlets. If you manage to get your hands on a coupon then you’ll be able to pop into one of the names stores and grab yourself a can of coffee.

Dunkin’

Dunkin’ has gone all out and renamed it National Dunkin’ Day. What do you get on National Dunkin’ Day on Tuesday, September 29? A free medium hot or iced coffee with any purchase at their restaurants, with the offer being limited to one per order.

McDonald’s

If you take up the offer within the McDonald’s app then you’ll be able to grab yourself a Premium Roast or Iced Coffee for $0.99.

Godiva

Godiva will be offering 30% of coffee bags throughout National Coffee Day. You can pop into one of their stores or take advantage of the offer online.

Sheetz

Order through the Sheetz app on National Coffee Day and you can claim a free cold bree.

Coffee: 10 Benefits of Coffee

By Tallene

Jun 21, 2018

Coffee is considered to be one of the most commonly consumed drinks in the United States. Although coffee is not good for you in large amounts, studies show that coffee can be beneficial when consumed in moderation. There are a number of health benefits that can be experienced when drinking coffee on a regular basis.

Coffee is loaded with antioxidants and other benefits that can improve your overall health. As much as two cups a day can give coffee drinkers a much lower risk of several serious illnesses. Consider pouring yourself a cup before a morning run or enjoying it with a nice breakfast sandwich before you get your day started.

Link: https://10faq.com/health/coffee-benefits/?utm_source=7017173049&utm_campaign=1496037521&utm_medium=5...

[DaveMcK]

National Drink Beer Day – September 28, 2020

Like most things, we look to the ancient Egyptians for answers. Historians point to beer as a ceremonial drink over 5,000 years ago because papyrus scrolls have been discovered documenting early beer recipes. But the Mesopotamians may have actually been the first to develop beer over 10,000 years ago, before recorded history. 

Beer made its way to Europe and gained popularity during the Middle Ages. (Why drink polluted, possibly contaminated water, when you can drink a safer alternative, beer?) Eventually, German monks became master brewers, coming up with some of the fermentation techniques that brought the world closer to the beer we know and love today.

Did you know in European cities like Prague — ordering beer in a restaurant is cheaper than ordering water?

Europeans who arrived in the New World actually complained when they were out of beer and had to brew more. (Apparently, the love of beer was so strong, that upon arrival, brewing beer was one of the first things on the Pilgrims’ to-do list!)

Today, there are light beers with great flavor and less calories as well as dark beers like Guinness, served up warm in authentic English, Scottish and Irish pubs alike. There are ales and lagers which are distinguished by the type of yeast used in the fermentation process.

Is craft beer on your radar? Millennial Like most things, we look to the ancient Egyptians for answers. Historians point to beer as a ceremonial drink over 5,000 years ago because papyrus scrolls have been discovered documenting early beer recipes. But the Mesopotamians may have actually been the first to develop beer over 10,000 years ago, before recorded history. 

Beer made its way to Europe and gained popularity during the Middle Ages. (Why drink polluted, possibly contaminated water, when you can drink a safer alternative, beer?) Eventually, German monks became master brewers, coming up with some of the fermentation techniques that brought the world closer to the beer we know and love today.

Did you know in European cities like Prague — ordering beer in a restaurant is cheaper than ordering water?

Europeans who arrived in the New World actually complained when they were out of beer and had to brew more. (Apparently, the love of beer was so strong, that upon arrival, brewing beer was one of the first things on the Pilgrims’ to-do list!)

Today, there are light beers with great flavor and less calories as well as dark beers like Guinness, served up warm in authentic English, Scottish and Irish pubs alike. There are ales and lagers which are distinguished by the type of yeast used in the fermentation process.

Is craft beer on your radar? Millennials  s especially are showing much more refined palates and a broad knowledge of all kinds of beer. You’ll find a wide spectrum of craft brews, foreign and domestic, to fit every taste.

If you’re really looking for something different, try hard cider. It has a great “kick” to it! Plus, Foodie Alert: Don’t miss the perfect opportunity to pair a great beer with a delicious dish. And if you’re the adventurous sort, DIY with a home brew kit. 

So on National Drink Beer Day, drink responsibly and in moderation, but enjoy. Just this once, pass up the white wine or your evening Cabernet. Get a frothy, ice-cold glass of beer with a good “head” on it and remember that beer is no longer just your parents’ brew!

While some people celebrate this day by gathering with friends and enjoying different varieties of the drink, others prefer being at their home, relishing the beverage. Many breweries across the country also offer deals and tastings.

Here are a few famous quotes about the alcoholic drink, courtesy Link: Food24:

1. “Whoever drinks beer, he is quick to sleep; whoever sleeps long, does not sin; whoever does not sin, enters Heaven! Thus, let us drink beer!” - Martin Luther King

2. Drinking beer is easy. Trashing your hotel room is easy. But being a Christian, that’s a tough call. That’s rebellion.” – Alice Cooper

3. “Beer culture is a part of the world of food and drink. It’s not just a commodity in cans and bottles, but has a value as an agricultural product with good ingredients.” – Michael Jackson

4. There is to me something profoundly affects in large masses of men following the lead of those who do not believe in men, and beer”- Walt Whitman

5. “Beer, if drunk in moderation, softens the temper, cheers the spirit, and promotes health,”- Thomas Jefferson

6. "Beer, it's the best **bleep** drink in the world."- Jack Nicholson

7. "The beer tastes good to my throat, cold and bitter, and the three boys and the beer and the queer freeness of the situation makes me feel like laughing forever. So I laugh, and my lipstick leaves a red stain like a bloody crescent moon on top of the beer can. I am looking very healthy and flushed and bright-eyed, having both a good tan and a rather excellent fever." - Sylvia Plath, "The Journals of Sylvia Plath"

8. “Beer is proof that God loves us and wants us to be happy.” Benjamin Franklin

9. “Beer makes you feel the way you ought to feel without beer.” Henry Lawson

10. “I am a firm believer in the people. If given the truth, they can be depended upon to meet any national crisis. The great point is to bring them the real facts, and beer.” – Abraham Lincoln

[LydiaN586309]

Gold Star Mother’s and Family Day – September 27, 2020

Gold Star Mother’s and Family Day falls on September 27 this year and is traditionally observed on the last Sunday in September. The day is for honoring families of those who have received The Gold Star – the military award no one wants. The award commemorates the tragic death of a military member who has perished while in the line of duty and hopes to provide a level of comfort to the parents and families that are left behind. Since World War 1, a “Gold Star Family” has signified a family that has lost one of its members in combat. The family can display a Gold Star Service Flag for any military family members who have died from any honorable cause – each gold star on the flag signifies a death. Though today only around 1% of the country is involved in military service, as compared to the 12% during other times of war, like World War 2, there are still a significant number of surviving Gold Star families – not to mention, a Gold Star lives on in a family’s legacy.

HISTORY OF GOLD STAR MOTHER’S AND FAMILY DAY

Though the exact roots of the tradition aren’t totally known, it was during World War 1 that the gold star came to symbolize that a family member had fallen in battle. Around that time, the term “Gold Star Family” came to mean that you were a surviving family of a person who died in service and families hung banners with a gold star outside their homes. The tradition has since been authorized and seeks to ease the grief of mothers and families while reminding that no one truly serves alone.

Gradually, there came to be many ways for grieving family members to honor their loved ones with symbols worn or places outside the home. In 1918, President Wilson allowed grieving military mothers to wear a traditional black armband featuring a gold star. Soon after, it was approved for families to cover the blue star on the service flag outside of their home with a gold one. As of 1947, Gold Star family members can also display the Gold Star Lapel.

The American Gold Star Mothers Inc. first got its start in 1917, when Grace Siebold’s son was killed during World War 1. Wanting to create a support system for grieving mothers in similar circumstances, Grace gathered what would become the American Gold Star Mothers to grieve together and tend to hospitalized veterans in local hospitals. The organization was formalized as a non-profit in 1928, with a mission of remembrance, education, and patriotism. Still today, they support Gold Star mothers in their grief, hold an annual conference, and organize events with supporting groups.

Though Gold Star Mother’s and Family Day isn’t observed as a National, federal holiday like Memorial Day, it was declared by Congress in 1936 to be the last Sunday in September – though, at the time, it was only known as “Gold Star Mother’s Day.” It was in 2011 that President Obama amended the declaration, declaring the day to include families as well as mothers. Today, the holiday includes any immediate family member and authorizes that person to display the Gold Star Service Flag.

Today, America is not embroiled in any kind of conflict like World War 1 or 2, and far fewer individuals consider Gold Star heroes and their families – oftentimes, people may think that they don’t know anyone in a Gold Star Family. However, there are many more Gold Star families from previous wars than you may think, and since over 1.3 million people are involved in the military today, it’s possible you know a family that still grieves a recent fallen soldier. Understanding the sacrifice and acknowledging the holiday are the best ways to support the families and honor the soldiers.

HOW TO OBSERVE GOLD STAR MOTHER’S AND FAMILY DAY

1. Read about the heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice

   Endless family testimonials, articles, and other media can be found to learn more about the lives of our brave servicemembers. This Gold Star Mothers and Family Day, learn more about their bravery and honor their memory.

2. Donate to an organization that supports Gold Star Mothers and Families

   Many organizations are dedicated to supporting Gold Star Mothers and Families emotionally and with other benefits. Specifically for mothers, you can donate to the American Gold Star Mothers Inc. Other organizations to consider are Snowball Express and fallenpatriots.org, but do your own research and determine where your money is best donated.

3. Visit a Gold Star soldier’s grave

   Gold Star soldiers must not be forgotten, and a great way to remind ourselves of their sacrifice is to visit their grave. You might consider laying some flowers or a flag at their resting place.

5 IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT GOLD STAR MOTHER’S AND FAMILY DAY

1. The American Gold Star Mothers are headquartered in California

   Called “The Gold Star Manor,” a home on a 23-acre piece of land in Long Beach, CA serves as the headquarters for the American Gold Star Mothers.

2. There is a National Gold Star Families Registry

   This program honors fallen soldiers by keeping a registry of their deaths, so as to properly recognize them publicly.

3. Gold Star Mothers raise money for Wreaths Across America

   During the holidays, the American Gold Star Mothers partner with Wreaths Across America, helping them raise money to put wreaths on the graves of gold star soldiers.

4. There are over 470,000 Gold Star Families

   While you may not think you know a Gold Star Family, with approximately 472,050 Gold Star Families reported by the National Gold Star Family Registry, you actually might.

5. There is a specific organization for Gold Star Wives

   While wives are encompassed in the meaning of a Gold Star Family, the separate organization Gold Star Wives provides support and benefits to the wives and children of fallen soldiers.

WHY GOLD STAR MOTHER’S AND FAMILY DAY IS IMPORTANT

1. It emotionally supports the families left behind

   One of the most important things to Gold Star Mothers and Families is ensuring their loved one is not forgotten. When we display our commitment to remembering their soldier, we can all help ease the burden of their grief.

2. It reminds us of our gratitude

   We can often take the freedom we enjoy in the United States for granted but this holiday reminds us that freedom is not without a price; in this case, the ultimate price. We’re going to spend some time today appreciating the freedom we enjoy every day while being mindful of why we have it.

3. It raises awareness of the military

   Though oftentimes the meaning of Memorial Day is overlooked, Gold Star Mother’s and Family Day reminds us all of the purpose of the holiday. It also raises awareness of the heroism that our military members display regularly.

[DaveMcK]

Nationally Cherries Jubilee Day – September 24, 2020

National Cherries Jubilee Day on September 24 celebrates a very unique dessert that deserves more love! Cherries jubilee is a dish that involves cherries and liqueur, usually a brandy or Kirschwasser. Originally, the cherries were simply poached in a sugary syrup and served with warm brandy, which was set on fire for a dramatic presentation as it was served to guests. Modern recipes serve the cherries with ice cream, but the fire has remained a key part of this dish. Cherries jubilee was first served at one of the jubilee celebrations of Queen Victoria and the popularity for the dessert skyrocketed during her reign. It was considered a highly fashionable dessert to offer one’s guests. The dessert made a comeback in the 1950s and 1960s, and now this classic dessert has earned itself a new brand of retro prestige. For National Cherries Jubilee Day on September 24, we invite you to join us in indulging in this most dramatic of desserts.

Order yourself some cherries jubilee

A number of restaurants have started to offer this classic dessert again, now that cherries jubilee has transitioned from a popular dish of the 1950s to a retro-fabulous dessert in modern times. Check around your local restaurants and find a place that serves cherries jubilee near you. On September 24, make a point to visit that restaurant and try out cherries jubilee for yourself. Even better, bring a friend and share the experience. Just don't invite anyone with a fear of fire!

It has cherries

Cherries are one of America's favorite berries, and we have hundreds of cherry-themed dishes to prove it. But unlike the cherry pie, cherry salad, cherry-cranberry jelly, cherried pork, and dozens of other desserts, starters, and even main courses that incorporate this very beloved berry, cherries jubilee has some royal history behind it. As one of the desserts served at the jubilees of Queen Victoria in the late 1800s, cherries jubilee not only delivers on the cherries, but it does so with regal dignity and royal style.

NATIONAL CHERRIES JUBILEE HISTORY

Initially, the cherries were basically poached in a sugary syrup and presented with warm brandy, which was determined to fire for an dramatic introduction as it was served to visitors.

Present day recipes serve the cherries with ice cream, yet the fire has stayed a key aspect of this dish.

Cherries jubilee was first served at one of the jubilee festivities of Queen Victoria and the popularity for the dessert skyrocketed during her rule. It was viewed as an exceptionally popular sweet to offer one’s visitors.

The dessert made a rebound during the 1950s and 1960s, and now this classic pastry has earned itself another brand of retro prestige. For National Cherries Jubilee Day on September 24, we welcome you to go along with us in enjoying this generally dramatic of sweets.

[DaveMcK]

September 19 is National Dance Day! We brought the music, you bring the moves! Or, feel free to bring your own tunes. We’re not too particular on the music choice or who brings the beats. We really just can’t wait to see you on the floor! If you have a favorite dance move or go-to routine, this is the time for all to break it down on the dance floor.

HISTORY OF NATIONAL DANCE DAY

This groovy day was created to help encourage Americans to enjoy the art of movement, as a creative outlet to promote a healthy lifestyle. Hitting the dance floor is not only an artistic outlet, but helps to improve muscle tone, bone density, balance, flexibility, and strength. It was officially launched in 2010, by national dance fans — both politicos and dance extraordinaires. Up until 2020, the day was observed in July; however, 2020 will be the second time that it will be officially observed on the third Saturday in September. 
Nigel Lythgoe, co-creator of “So You Think You Can Dance” and the co-founder of American Dance Movement, partnered with Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton to start this holiday 10 years ago. Congresswoman Norton introduced National Dance Day as a resolution, with the goal of promoting artistic expression and exercise.

Dance is also a great way to improve both emotional and mental health as well. Staying active on a consistent basis is a great way to release tension, stress, build muscle, and be in an all-around better mood. Every aspect of our health is interconnected. Health is wealth, and we all need that currency.

This fun-filled day of movement was moved from July to September because of an essential collaboration with the American Heart Association. The Association approached the National Dance Day team because they sought new dance material and video content for their kids’ health initiative, the Kids’ Heart Challenge. Given in part because of the school-affiliated nature of the partnership, the date for National Dance Day moved from the summer months to early fall during the academic year in 2020.

[DaveMcK]

Wed Sep 16th, 2020

Guacamole Day

It doesn’t have any particularly poetic origin, but Guacamole Day is a terrific excuse to indulge in the tastiest of dips. Not only is it a great addition to a savoury spread, it’s also good for you! “Guac” is made from avocados, which are nutrient dense and packed with healthy fats that help lower cholesterol, which all contributes to you having a good ol’ time for as long as possible.

There’s no particular reason, other than it being awesome, so celebrate Guacamole Day by picking up some at the store, or better yet, buying some avocados and making it from scratch at home. Blend the avocado, season with salt and you’re done! Of course you can add your own taste to it, lemon for a little zest, perhaps some tomato, garlic or onion to expand the palette, the choice is yours. Just don’t feel that you should only indulge on Guacamole Day. After all, it’s good for you all year round, this is just an extra special reason to enjoy it!

[DaveMcK]

The September 11 attacks (often referred to as 9/11) were a series of four coordinated terrorist attacks by the Islamist terrorist group al-Qaeda against the United States on the morning of Tuesday, September 11, 2001. The attacks resulted in 2,977 fatalities, over 25,000 injuries, and substantial long-term health consequences, in addition to at least $10 billion in infrastructure and property damage.[6][7] 9/11 is the single deadliest terrorist attack in human history and the single deadliest incident for firefighters and law enforcement officers in the history of the United States, with 343 and 72 killed, respectively.

• Top row: The Twin Towers of the
  World Trade Center burning
• 2nd row, left to right: Collapsed section of
  the Pentagon; Flight 175 crashes into 2 WTC
• 3rd row, left to right: A firefighter requests
  assistance at World Trade Center site;
  Ground Zero; An engine
  from Flight 93 is recovered
• Bottom row: Flight 77's collision with the
  Pentagon as captured by three
  consecutive CCTV frames

[DaveMcK]

National Cheese Pizza Day – September 5, 2020

 

Hold the toppings, please! National Cheese Pizza Day is celebrated annually on September 5, and it’s time for you to celebrate in cheese-pizza style. We all love the classics, like pepperoni, pizza with pineapple, barbecued chicken pizza, or juicy meat lovers. But nothing surpasses the basics of holding a gently folded, single slice of melty deliciousness — the cheese pizza.

Each year, more than 2 billion pounds of pizza cheese is produced in the U.S. alone. So on this special day, savor a classic slice of ooey, gooey cheese pizza for yourself, and share a slice or two with some of your very best friends.

HISTORY OF NATIONAL CHEESE PIZZA DAY

You may be familiar with National Pizza Day on February 9: it’s an iconic day for everyone to celebrate their favorite pizza dish. But to give special appreciation to the well-loved cheese pizza, National Cheese Pizza Day was born to be celebrated every year on September 5.

Let’s be honest, every pizza deserves its own day for love — the Margherita, pepperoni, olive, and mushroom — which is most likely the reason for National Cheese Pizza Day being created. Although the exact creator and birth date are unknown, it’s still a day that is widely celebrated and, of course, participated.

The beginnings of pizza aren’t exactly known either, but many people date it back to Ancient Greece when people would cover their bread with oils, herbs, and cheese. That sounds like a pizza, right? However, the kind of flatbread pizza that is well-known now was first created in Naples, Italy, and it used the highest-quality of buffalo mozzarella to create the origins of the cheese pizza that is loved today. Yum!

Eventually, travel and discovery led to pizza making its way to the Western Continent. The first pizza establishment in the Western world opened in 1905 in Little Italy in New York. It wasn’t until 1939 that the D’Amore family introduced pizza to Los Angeles and the dish had officially made it across the country. The popularity of pizza in the U.S rose dramatically following World War II. Veterans returning from the Italian Campaign, who has been introduced to Italy’s native cuisine, led the increase in pizza consumption at the time.

It was during the second half of the 20th century that pizza became an iconic dish in North America. It was in 1958 that two men, Dan and Frank Carney, borrowed $600 from their mom and opened the first-ever Pizza Hut Kansas. By the 1960s they were coming up against some stiff competition and introduced the iconic red thatched roof that we still associate with them today.

An organized industry association, the Pizza Industry Council, was even set up with the purpose of addressing issues specific to pizza operators. Today the pizza industry in the U.S is worth over $40 billion per year.

Cheese Pizza has also had an impact on pop culture, with the dish famously being Kevin Mccallister’s preferred choice in the Home Alone movies. Although perhaps nobody loves pizza as much as the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, who became a global phenomenon in the 1990s. Joey Tribianni, the iconic Friends character, also introduced the Joey special in the 1990sm which consisted of two pizzas.

There’s no doubting it, pizza has become a U.S and Canadian favorite, and cheese pizza is at the heart of it. It’s a popular dish at any party or friend gathering, and that’s not about to change anytime soon!

[DavidE760644]

Today the First Saturday in September is

WORLD BEARD DAY  and yes I have a beard.

[LydiaN586309]

International Sudoku Day – September 9, 2020

International Sudoku Day takes place, of course, on September 9 (9/9). Sudoku enthusiasts will no doubt notice the date’s symbolism. The goal of the Sudoku game is to fill a 9×9 grid so that each column, row, and 3×3 sub-grid contains all the digits from 1 to 9. So nine-nine is the natural choice for the day of celebration. It’s time to get your brain into gear because although today is most definitely a cause for celebration, some hardcore logical thinking will be required.

HISTORY OF INTERNATIONAL SUDOKU DAY

In 1892, the French newspaper “La Siècle” printed a game that was akin to Sudoku in that each row and column had to contain all the designated numbers, but unlike Sudoku, it involved numerals higher than 9 and engaged solvers’ mathematical skills, not their logic center. In the ensuing years, other French papers picked up on the trend with similar games, but none were strictly identical to Sudoku, and those games’ popularity waned around the time that World War I was starting.

Flash forward to 1979. Circumstantial evidence points to Indiana architect Howard Garns publishing a puzzle of his own invention (at that time named “Number Place”) in “Dell Magazine” that would become the game we now know as Sudoku. Garns, however, passed away without seeing his brainchild become an international sensation. In the meantime, the game set Japan’s puzzle industry on fire, gaining the name Sudoku for the first time, along with a fan base of millions of devoted players. In 1997, Hong Kong judge Wayne Gould invented a computer program that could come up with unique Sudoku puzzles. He pitched the game as a daily puzzle feature to newspapers in the U.K., and soon Sudoku was known around the world.

Today, Sudoku is readily available on smartphone apps and widely printed in papers and magazines. It’s the subject of multiple documentaries and game shows, and even spawned an award-nominated original tune by songwriter Peter Levy. We think it’s safe to say Sudoku isn’t going anywhere any time soon.

In 2013 The World Puzzle Federation made September 9 the official International Sudoku Day and we’ve been celebrating it ever since.

INTERNATIONAL SUDOKU DAY TIMELINE

2013 A truly worldwide phenomenon

The World Puzzle Federation designates September 9 to be the ongoing annual date of International Sudoku Day and begins holding multi-round online competitions in the category.

2008 Not impartial to the game

A million-dollar drug trial in Australia is scrapped when it’s discovered that five of the twelve jurors were playing Sudoku instead of listening to the evidence.

2006 Breaking” the internet

A Sudoku website that published Peter Levy’s song on the topic (“I know these numbers only go to nine / But the skill required to finish one line / Is sometimes more than worth my struggling through…”) has to take it down because the online demand is too great for their servers.

2005 Worth donating to the pledge drive for…

British TV station “Channel 4” begins to include a daily Sudoku puzzle in its Teletext and the program guide “Radio Times” initiates a weekly, 16x16 grid, “Super Sudoku.”

INTERNATIONAL SUDOKU DAY FAQS

Can I play Sudoku for free?

Yes, absolutely. A simple online search of “free sudoku games” will generate a list of millions of results.

When is International Sudoku Day?

September 9

Who came up with International Sudoku Day?

The World Puzzle Federation established International Sudoku Day.

HOW TO CELEBRATE INTERNATIONAL SUDOKU DAY

1. Solve some Sudoku puzzles

   There’s no better way to observe International Sudoku Day than to solve some Sudoku puzzles! You can do as many or as few as you want, but challenge yourself.

2. Buy some new puzzle books

   Out of puzzles to solve? Make International Sudoku Day the day you replenish your supply. If you’re a Sudoku connoisseur, hunt around for the most challenging puzzle book you can find. If you're a newbie, there are plenty of entry-level books for you. Either way, get a new book and solve those puzzles like there’s no tomorrow.

3. Challenge a friend to play head-to-head

   Sudoku doesn’t have to be a one-person activity. Take the challenge to the next level by competing against your friends. Whoever solves the puzzle fastest, wins. You can all participate at the same time, or create brackets to narrow it down to the best puzzle-solver. The winner gets bragging rights and now you’ve emulated the spirit of the World Puzzle Championship, right in your living room!

   WHY WE LOVE INTERNATIONAL SUDOKU DAY

1. Puzzles are fun!

   Some of us love visual puzzles and prefer word searches. Others love word games and go gaga for crossword puzzles. But if you love numbers, math, and logic, Sudoku is a puzzle that's right up your alley.

2. We love a good challenge

   It’s fun to be challenged, and Sudoku is excellent at making us think in tough new ways. There are varying degrees of difficulty to match your skills with the game that's right for you. Yes, it can be frustrating sometimes (if you throw your Sudoku book at the wall, just don’t hit a glass picture frame) — but there’s no judgment from fellow Sudoku lovers like us!

3. It keeps our minds sharp

   Actively participating in things that exercise our brains, especially those that involve math, is a good way to keep our minds sharp. Sudoku can increase focus and concentration as well as alleviate depression. Studies also suggest that puzzles and word games help prevent Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Who knew Sudoku could be so good for your health?

[LydiaN586309]

National Beach Day – August 30, 2020

Everyone loves a good day at the beach, right? Celebrate your affinity for the coast on August 30,  National Beach Day.  Started in  2014,  this holiday raises our awareness of the beauty of  beaches while also calling attention to keeping them clean and safe.

Here’s how you can help: after enjoying the beach, leave nothing behind.  Keep animals from getting trapped or tangled in trash, on land and in the water.  So, swim, dive, surf, and take in the world’s aquatic playgrounds. Just remember to do your part to protect one of our most cherished natural resources — our beaches.

NATIONAL BEACH DAY TIMELINE The BEACH Act Passes

The BEACH Act requires the EPA to develop criteria for testing, monitoring, and notifying public users of possible coastal recreation water problems.

1972 The Coastal Zone Management Act

This act aims to “preserve, protect, develop, and where possible, to restore or enhance the resources of the nation’s coastal zone.”

1948 The Clean Water Act

The Clean Water Act sets water quality and pollution control standards to keep America's waters clean, including its beaches.

NATIONAL BEACH DAY - SURVEY RESULTS

Data insights generated by a top San Diego PR Firm:

NATIONAL BEACH DAY ACTIVITIES

1. Keep the SPF handy

   The light rays of the sun reflect off the ocean water, making it even more intense for your skin. As you spend the day outside, you're exposing yourself to lots of UV (ultraviolet) rays. Protect your skin by applying some sunscreen. Not only will you ward off sunburns and stings, but you’ll help shield your skin from premature aging.

2. Host a beach bbq and clean-up party

   Invite your friends out to take part in an environmentally-friendly shindig on the beach. Have enough hot dogs and other favorite beach snacks on hand for your guests. Bring a volleyball or a football to throw around, or a guitar to sing some fun summertime favorites. When you’re done, make sure to clean up, and take some time to comb the beach for additional trash.

3. Throw a beach-themed party

   Even if you don't live near the water, you can still have fun at the "beach." Go all out and turn your backyard into a seashore soiree. Serve up fruity cocktails with funky paper umbrellas. Grill up kebabs and cut up some watermelon. Keep seating simple by making the meal picnic-style on beach blankets and towels. Break out the limbo stick and cornhole boards for your guests to have the full beach experience!

WHY WE LOVE NATIONAL BEACH DAY

1. It’s important to be environmentally-conscious

   Little, simple acts can make a huge impact on the health of beaches and oceans. Walking more and switching to fluorescent light bulbs can help reduce your carbon footprint. Forego using so many plastic products, as many end up in the water. They can wreak havoc on the coastal habitat.

2. It’s a chance to be active outdoors

   The beach offers countless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and sunshine. Take a swim in the ocean and get some fresh saltwater on your skin. Lay out on a towel and give your skin some vitamin D. Put up a net to play a game or two of beach volleyball. Pack a picnic so you don’t have to leave, and make sure you stay to catch the sun set over the water!

3. It promotes giving back to beach organizations

   There are many organizations that help to keep beaches clean and fun all year long. Save Our Beach works to “educate individuals, companies, schools and organizations on how their environmental footprint impacts their community and the world.” Many beach communities have groups that advocate for environmentally-friendly behavior. If you live near a beach, check out your local organization to volunteer.

[catwoman500]

Today is national Trail Mix Day!

August 31...NATIONAL TRAIL MIX DAY

[DaveMcK]

NATIONAL AVIATION DAY HISTORY

In 1939, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt established National Aviation Day by presidential proclamation designating the anniversary of Orville Wright’s birthday for the observance. Born August 19, 1871, Orville Wright was still living when President Roosevelt issued the proclamation. Orville Wright continued living for nine more years until his death in 1948.

Proclamation USC 36:I:A:1:118 allows the sitting United States President to proclaim August 19th as National Aviation Day each year. If desired, the President’s proclamation may direct all federal buildings and installations to fly the U.S. flag on that day. The President may encourage citizens to observe the day with activities that promote interest in aviation.

[WebWiseWoman]

Birth may be happening at National Zoo, maybe, perhaps 😉 

[DaveMcK]

Not sure any bargain would get me out for this one! How about you?

[DaveMcK]

International Cat Day 2020: origins of the cat appreciation day - and when to celebrate your feline friend in the UK The day was about much more than just flooding the internet with cute kitties. I think we should allow our cat lovers another day to comment about their favorite cat/cats. We don't have a cat now but we are looking forward to your pets stories.

By Alex Nelson

Friday, 7th August 2020, 11:56 

This weekend saw International Cat Day take place on Saturday 8 August.

It's a day for cat fans and lovers of all things feline to show their appreciation of our four-legged friends by sharing photos and videos of their pets on social media.

But the day is about much more than just flooding the internet with cute kitties.

[angeleyes64]

GOD gave me another day to wake up and live.

I say this because of the many chronic illnesses I have to deal with every day.

[DaveMcK]

Fun Holiday – Lighthouse Day

August 7 is celebrated as Lighthouse Day in the United States as a way to commemorate the signing of the Act for the Establishment and support of Lighthouse, Beacons, Buoys, and Public Piers by the U.S. Congress in 1789.

In 1989, the Congress passed a resolution designating August 7 as National Lighthouse Day. The day aims to recognize the importance of lighthouses in maritime navigation and for providing ships safe harbor during bad weather.

[DaveMcK]

World Cookie Day is observed every year on August 4 and we are celebrating it this year by… eating cookies! Biting into a Chocolate Chip Cookie can transport us back to the halcyon days of our childhoods when the days were long and the milk was cold.

We’ve tried Chocolate Chip Cookies warm and gooey right out of the oven or fresh and chewy from the grocery store. But no matter what form your favorite Chocolate Chip Cookie takes, there’s no denying that this triple-C confection holds a very special place in our hearts.

[DavidE760644]

COFFEE is even better after WE got electricity back after Hurricane Isaias.

And the sun is out

[DavidE760644]

Lola Birthday

[LydiaN586309]

National Mutt Day – July 31, 2020

Dogs are special and there are oodles of national (and international) holidays to prove it.  But unlike most of our doggy days, National Mutt Day, on July 31, focuses on the mixed breed dogs who sometimes get overlooked. This holiday inspires people to learn more about adopting one. 

National Mutt Day also brings attention to the many great mixed breed dogs in need of homes. In fact, they benefit from the spotlight so much that we celebrate mixed breed dogs not just once, but twice a year! On both July 31 and December 2, join us in celebrating all the mutts and mixed breed dogs that make our lives so great.

HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL MUTT DAY

1. Adopt a mixed breed dog

   There are lots of great dogs out there who lack a home just because they don't have the right pedigree. But you can do your part to change all that. Getting any dog is a big responsibility, but a mixed breed will likely be healthier, happier, better behaved — and live longer than a purebred of the same age.

   

2. Donate to your local shelter

   Not in the position to adopt a mutt? You can still help out your local shelter with a donation. Your money goes to things like food, toys and medicine. Every dollar counts, so you can really make a difference in the lives of all the dogs at the shelter.

3. Volunteer to help out

   If donations aren't your style, you can always volunteer. Shelters need volunteers to befriend the dogs, play with them and take them for walks. A few hours of your time can make a big difference in their happiness and happy dogs stand a better chance of getting adopted.

WHY NATIONAL MUTT DAY IS IMPORTANT

1. All dogs love us for who we are

   Whether your dog is from a famous breeder or your local shelter, he or she loves you in a way that can't be expressed in words. Though mixed breed dogs aren't usually as highly regarded as their purebred cousins, they've got lots of love in their hearts. And some people even argue that since most mutts weren't born on Easy Street, they love us even more.

2. Mixed breeds have better health

   These dogs have hit the genetic lottery. The blending of genes helps fight deficiencies by providing healthier gene sequences from other breeds. Think of it this way: the smaller the gene pool, the less healthy the genes. Your mutt, on the other hand, has a sampling from all over, adding to the dog's overall lifespan and well-being.

3. Mutts need people, too

   

   Often passed over for their pedigreed cousins, mixed breed dogs end up at a pet shelter more frequently and they tend to wait longer before getting adopted. But mutts have all the doggedness we love about dogs and National Mutt Day is about getting them the love and attention they deserve.

[OscarE1968]

[LydiaN586309]

National Give Something Away Day – July 15, 2020

Imagine a day when you could clean house and get rid of clutter, show someone that you care, gift small things to strangers, and generally making the world a better place. Yes, this day does, in fact, exist and on July 15 we celebrate National Give Something Away Day!

NATIONAL GIVE SOMETHING AWAY DAY ACTIVITIES

1. Buy a meal or drink to give to someone

   Pay for the person behind you in line at the coffee shop. Buy a to-go meal and hand it to the homeless person outside. Pack a small purse or backpack that you don't want anymore — with things like socks, snacks, and toothbrushes and gift it to a homeless person. Compassion is a virtue that needs nurturing.

2. Donate clothing to a thrift store

   Check all the closets in your house... are there things there that you haven't worn in years? Giving your useful clothing away gives someone with less means the opportunity to look sharp, maybe even at their job interview.

3. Give flowers away

   Flowers are a simple way to brighten someones day — with color, smell, and a breath of greenery to bring nature to their desk or table. Give flowers to your co-workers, your housemate, or your significant other.

WHY WE LOVE NATIONAL GIVE SOMETHING AWAY DAY

1. Giving things away brightens someone else's day

   What better way to make your day count, than by making someone else happy? When you make other people happy, you get a sense of peace and happiness that only things like philanthropy can achieve.

2. Giving things away gives a sense of lightness

   When you get rid of things, your life becomes infinitely more simple and free. The feeling one gets from removing items that you might not have needed or were not using, gives you a sense of freedom.

3. Giving Decreases Stress

   Less clutter = less stress. The less stuff you have, the less things you have to worry about and the better you will feel. And we all know that how bad stress can be for you and the health benefits of decreasing stress.