WHAT'S SPECIAL ABOUT TODAY?

LydiaN586309 · ‎03-24-2019

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.

LydiaN586309 · ‎11-18-2019

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

Put him on your wrist
Mickey Mouse watches never seem to go out of style. There's even a 90th anniversary edition now available.
Visit a Disney resort
Enjoy music, fireworks, and special snacks as the parks stage a Mickey-themed party.
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

He has a middle name
Mickey's full name is Michael Theodore Mouse.
The secret of this mouse's gloves
Mickey Mouse wears white gloves so that his hands can be distinguished from his entire body.
A friend to presidents
Most U.S. presidents have posed alongside Mickey, with the notable exception of Lyndon Johnson.
"Hot Dogs!"
Those were the first words Mickey Mouse said. In fact, he was the first cartoon character to speak.
Star power
He is the first cartoon character to earn a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

LydiaN586309 · ‎11-11-2019

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

LydiaN586309 · ‎11-07-2019

National Bittersweet Chocolate with Almonds Day – November 7, 2019

National Bittersweet Chocolate with Almonds Day is an opportunity to celebrate the sumptuous combination of chocolate and almonds. Nearly 40 percent of all the world’s almonds end up in some form of chocolate, most often a candy bar. The pairing is one of the oldest known recipes using chocolate. While National Bittersweet Chocolate with Almonds Day, held on November 7, is sponsored by the National Confectioners Association, it’s primarily an online celebration involving dark chocolate and almond lovers.

National Bittersweet Chocolate with Almonds Day timeline 1938 Government endorsed chocolate

The federal government, recognizing the nutritional value of chocolate, added it to the meal rations for U.S. troops.

1925 Cocoa became big business

The U.S. Cocoa Exchange opened in New York City to facilitate cocoa transactions.

1920 Mounds bar born

Hershey's Mounds bar, made with almonds, coconut, and dark chocolate, hits the shelves.

1853 Cocoa tarries lifted

This made chocolate accessible to more than just the upper class.

1830 You can eat it

J.S. Fry and Sons, a British chocolate maker, devised a way to turn cocoa into a solid bar.

National Bittersweet Chocolate with Almonds Day Activities

Dip it at home
Buy a nice big bar of dark chocolate along with a jar of almonds to make your own dipped almonds at home. You might add a teaspoon or two of cornstarch to thicken the chocolate sauce. Sprinkle them with some sea salt to add extra flavor.
Buy a dark chocolate and almond candy bar
You have plenty to choose from! You've got Hershey's Special Dark with Almonds, or a Mounds bar, which includes shaved coconut (Mounds' sister bar, Almond Joy, features milk chocolate), or the Dove Silky Smooth Promises Dark Chocolate & Almond.
Tour a chocolate factory
The kids will love you for it! There's Hershey's in (the obviously named) Hershey, Pennsylvania. You can also hit the theme park next door. The Sanders and Morely Candy Makers chocolate factory in Clinton Township, Michigan offers a free tour, as does Hammond's Candies in Denver.

5 Reasons Why Chocolate's Healthier Than You Think

Better fat
Experiments on rats have shown that the fat in cocoa is actually less fattening than the fat in other fatty foods.
Anti-inflammatory
Research shows cocoa works as an anti-inflammatory agent in humans.
Improved eyesight
Consumption of cocoa thins the blood and improves circulation to the brain; it's thought to improve vision as a result.
Good for your skin
Dark chocolate, in particular, contains antioxidants that actually can improve the condition of your skin.
Get your fiber
Dark chocolate contains fiber and offers all of the health benefits that fiber brings, including satisfying your appetite.

Why We Love National Bittersweet Chocolate with Almonds Day

It's a tasty combo
The origins of combining dark chocolate and almonds are unknown, but whoever did it knew what they were doing. There's something about the taste and texture of almonds that just works alongside the bittersweet taste of dark chocolate.
Believe it or not, it's healthy!
While there's plenty of fat in dark chocolate-covered almonds, health benefits do exist when eaten in moderation. The antioxidants in dark chocolate, combined with the vitamins and proteins in almonds, offer a snack that can help reduce cardiovascular disease.
Made in the USA
The U.S. is the world's largest producer of almonds, and the majority of production happens in California. One Sacramento plant churns out more than two million pounds of almonds each day.

LydiaN586309 · ‎11-04-2019

TODAY IS...

National Candy Day – November 4, 2019

What is National Candy Day?

We hope your sweet tooth is ready, because November 4 is National Candy Day. These sweet and sour treats have been our favorite snack since childhood. Whether they’re hard, chewy, fruit flavored, or a “melt in your mouth not in your hand” sort of treat, candy has been a consistent source of happiness and, as we get older, nostalgia.

National Candy Day History

The story of candy begins in India. Between the 6th and 4th centuries BC, the Persians and Greeks learned that the people in India had, what they called, reeds that make honey without bees. These reeds were actually sugarcane, which is indigenous to Southeast Asia. Ancient Indians would boil sugarcane juice, turning it into individual pieces of sugar, which they called “khanda.”

Before sugarcane was domesticated outside of Asia, honey was used in ancient China, the Middle East, Egypt, Greece, and Rome to coat fruits and flowers, which would preserve them and turn them into a form of candy. Before the Industrial Revolution, candy was used as medicine to either calm the digestive system or cool the throat. In the Middle Ages, candy was mostly consumed by the wealthy and was made of sugar and spices to aid digestive problems, which were very common, as food was neither fresh nor balanced.

Candy first came to America in the 18th century from France and Britain. Very few colonists were skilled in sugar work, meaning only the wealthy were able to enjoy these new treats. In the 1830s, when the Industrial Revolution was in full swing, technological advances allowed candy to be accessible to more than just the rich, including a new market specifically for children. While some artisan sugar workers remained, candy stores were becoming an American staple, especially in the lives of children across the country. Penny candy became the first thing a child would spend their money on, and candy store owners relied mostly on the business of children and families to keep them running.

National Candy Day timeline 1817 Butterscotch

In a town called Doncaster in Yorkshire, England, a man named Samuel Parkinson began making butterscotch as a hard candy.

1883 Saltwater taffy

New Jersey shop owner David Bradley's candy store flooded due to a major storm. Because of this storm, he began calling his taffy "saltwater taffy."

1941 M&M's

M&M's were invented by Forrest Mars, who got the idea by watching soldiers eating chocolate pellets with a hard shell during the Spanish Civil War. The chocolates had hard shells so the soldiers could carry them during warm weather.

1960 Starburst

Starburst candies were invented in the UK by Peter Phillips and were originally called Opal Fruits.

National Candy Day FAQs

Which holiday has the highest candy sales?

Halloween pulls in the most candy sales over any other holiday, as people load up on bags of sweets to pass out to eager trick-or-treaters.

When is National Candy Month?

National Candy Month occurs in June to celebrate over 100 years of candy and the impact its had on all of our lives.

What is the most popular candy in the U.S?

Though the preferred candy tends to differ depending on the state, the two highest selling candies in the United States are M&M’s and Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups.

National Candy Day Activities

Buy candy for a friend
Give sweets to be sweet! Nothing says "Have a great day" better than a box of colorful candy.
Make your own
How about making your own candy for a change? Candy is made by boiling sugar in water or milk until it starts to caramelize. Find a recipe that strikes your interest and make it at home!
Try something new
We all have our go-to candies, but next time you're at the shop, try the candy you always look at but never actually pick up. It might be a new favorite.

Why We Love National Candy Day

It's delicious
If you've never had a king-sized Kit Kat bar or pack of Sour Patch Kids, then you haven't lived. Candy is great. End of story.
Childhood nostalgia
From crushing piñatas at birthday parties, to passing out Hershey's Kisses for Valentine's day, candy was a big part of our childhoods. No matter how much we grow, candy will always bring back those special memories.
It's improves your mood
Happy? Sad? It doesn't matter! Candy is used by many people as a way to boost happiness. It has a natural knack for lifting our moods.

LydiaN586309 · ‎10-20-2019

National Retirement Security Week – October 20-26, 2019

National Retirement Security Week - History September 13, 2006 The Senate passes the resolution

By unanimous consent, the Senate votes to designate the third week in October as National Retirement Security Week.

August 3, 2006 National Retirement Security Week is proposed

U.S. Senators Gordon Smith (R-OR) and Kent Conrad (D-ND) introduce a resolution to establish the weeklong observation.

How to Observe National Retirement Security Week

Start saving money
Ubiquity Retirement + Savings discovered that 32% of Americans didn’t start saving until they were in their 30s, and another 13% waited until their 40s to prepare for retirement. Don't wait any longer, start saving now.
Speak with a retirement plan consultant or expert
Nearly 60% of Americans say they have a workable knowledge of how their retirement vehicles operate, but 30% say they don’t know much about how their's works, if anything at all. Find a consultant or expert who can guide you through the details and works closely with you to develop a retirement strategy that meets your needs.
Spread the word
Most money-related issues are tagged with a me-first mentality, but preparing for retirement should never be viewed as a competition — National Retirement Security Week is the result of a bipartisan effort, after all. Whether you share a post about the week on your social channels, ask your friends if they are on track for a secure retirement, or set up a meeting at work to discuss retirement planning with your coworkers, just do your part to get the word out there.

5 Tips Everyone Should Know About Saving For Retirement From Ubiquity Retirement + Savings

Automate Your Saving
Have your contributions automatically deducted from your paycheck to guarantee that you're saving.
Boost Contributions as You Age
If you're over 50 years old, you can save an extra $6,000 per year tax deferred.
If You're Young, Invest More Aggressively
Choosing a more aggressive investment strategy early will quickly grow your nest egg and give you time to recoup if the market takes a dip.
Meet Your Company Match
If your company offers to match your contribution up to a certain percentage do it. It is free money and as Ubiquity Retirement + Savings CEO Chad Parks points out, that match can be tax-deductible for your employer.
Diversify Your Retirement Vehicles
Add a tax-advantaged retirement account like a Roth IRA so that some of your saving grows tax free. For more information visit www.myubiquity.com

Why National Retirement Security Week is Important

Planning for the future is paramount
While we don't think it's practical to plan out every aspect of one's life, looking forward when it comes to saving money is imperative. While there's nothing wrong with using welfare if you absolutely need it, but it shouldn't be your only choice in terms of financial support during your retirement years.
Retirement funds are a concern for most people
According to Ubiquity Retirement + Savings, 66% of Americans are worried that they won't have enough money saved up by the time they retire. These concerns aren't unjustified. 1 in 3 Americans currently have less than $5,000 saved — an amount that would last a few months at most depending on location — and it is predicted that half of Americans won't be able to maintain their standard of living once they retire.
Not all employees are offered a retirement plan
While 28% of Americans take full advantage of their company’s retirement saving options, 20% aren't even offered a plan by their employer. This week is here to help guide those individuals to alternative solutions, like an Individual Retirement Account (IRA).

LydiaN586309 · ‎10-08-2019

National Fluffernutter Day – October 8, 2019

National Fluffernutter Day 2019 – October 8

Marshmallow Fluff, peanut butter, bread — what’s not to love about a Fluffernutter? And on October 8, you can eat as many as you’d like thanks to National Fluffernutter Day. Initially, the term “Fluffernutter” was coined as a way for the marshmallow spread manufacturing company, Durkee-Mower Inc., to market a sandwich that featured Fluff. Now, it’s a national holiday. So celebrate National Flutternutter Day by eating it in sandwich, cookie, cupcake, or candy form — we promise not to judge how you get your Fluffernutter intake.

National Fluffernutter Day - History 1960 "Fluffernutter" used as a marketing tactic

As a way to market the marshmallow/peanut butter sandwich idea — and appeal to more people — an advertising agency coined the term “Fluffernutter."

1920 Same creme — new name

Archibald Query sold his Marshmallow Creme recipe to Durkee-Mower, Inc. — the company that still owns it today — and renamed it Marshmallow Fluff

1917 The original creme is created

Archibald Query of Somerville, Massachusetts, invented a sweet, marshmallow-like spread that he named Marshmallow Creme.

National Fluffernutter Day Activities

Go nuts with your fluffernutter creations.
Although Fluff with peanut butter is the OG of fluffernutters, there’s no rule saying you can’t get creative — so experiment with new combinations. For a more savory take, try adding bacon. To add a bit of tang, spread on some jam. If you want to create the ultimate sweet treat, try adding bananas, chocolate chips, or Nutella.
Spread the fluffernutter love
While it may be tempting to keep the gooey goodness of a fluffernutter to yourself, remember: there’s plenty of Fluff to go around. So on National Fluffernutter Day, celebrate by spreading the love by making extras for your coworkers and friends. If you have kids, bake fluffernutter-inspired cupcakes or cookies for them to bring to school and share with classmates and teachers.
Share the goodness on social media.
Whatever fluffernutter creations you choose to consume, share your tasty treats on social media. Snap a pic, take a Boomerang, capture the deliciousness on a video — however you choose to post about your National Fluffernutter Day treat, just be sure to use #FluffernutterDay when posting.

5 Reasons We Can't Get Enough Fluff

Fluff has made it to outer space
Former International Space Station commander Sunita Willimas requested to have containers of Fluff on her 322-day journey to space.
Fluff festival
Celebrated every September, the “What the Fluff?” festival takes place in Fluff’s hometown of Somerville, Massachusetts, and draws approximately 10,000 visitors every year.
Only 4 ingredients
Fluff has yet to change its recipe: corn syrup, dried egg whites, sugar and vanilla.
The Northeast luffs Fluff
Half of all Fluff profits (through selling 7 million pounds annually) comes from New England and upstate New York.
Paul Revere’s descendants invented the first Fluff-like product
Paul Revere’s great-great-great grandchildren created Snowflake Marshmallow creme and started selling “Liberty Sandwiches"— consisting of creme and peanut butter, during World War I.

Why We Love National Fluffernutter Day

We get to eat something delicious
There are a lot of great reasons why celebrating National Fluffernutter Day is so much fun, but one of the main reasons is pretty simple: they’re just so fluffin’ amazing. Marshmallowy goodness with peanut butter spread between two slices of bread — who doesn’t love that? Plus, it’s the perfect treat for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. (Well, on this day anyway.)
Adults get to embrace their inner kid
Of course kids love National Fluffernutter Day, but it's also an opportunity for adults to feel like a kid again. Although people of all ages can eat fluffernutters any day of the year, chances are most adults don’t — so National Fluffenutter Day is the perfect opportunity for them to indulge on a treat they most likely haven’t had in a long time.
It’s an excuse to not cook
Whether or not you love cooking, National Fluffernutter Day is an automatic night off. So relax, because you’ll have all this extra time to do whatever you want — like savor every last bite of a fluffernutter. To save even more time, shop for your fluffernutter ingredients the day before National Fluffernutter Day.

DaveMcK · ‎09-23-2019

Good by!

Posted by Dave the Lighthouse Keeper

LydiaN586309 · ‎09-23-2019

Fall is a beautiful time of year indeed, Dave. Love your pictures!

LydiaN586309 · ‎09-11-2019

In remembrance of all of those who lost their lives on 9/11 and all those whom they left behind. Godspeed and blessings.

LydiaN586309 · ‎09-02-2019

Not only is it LABOR DAY, but today is...... World Coconut Day – September 2, 2019

You can’t make a piña colada or a decent Thai curry without it, its water makes a great recovery drink, and its fibrous husk, when burned, repels mosquitos — these are just three of many excellent reasons to celebrate World Coconut Day on September 2. One of nature’s most versatile products, the coconut plant (and its various parts) can be used for food and drink, cosmetic preparations, and decorating. Some coconut proponents (cocoproponents?) even claim that the fruit’s oil can reverse dental decay — if you swish it around in your mouth for 20 minutes a day! Most of us aren’t comfortable with a mouthful of oil, no matter whence that oil comes or what it’s purported to do. But we can still get caught up in the coconut craze. Whether you’re stuck on a deserted island or comfortable in your own home, here are some (relatively normal) ideas for using this tropical wonderfruit.

World Coconut Day - History

2000s Coconut Water Boom

Coconut water becomes a popular drink in the West

1971 Put the Lime in the Coconut

Harry Nilsson's "Coconut," which tells the story of a woman who put the lime in the coconut and drank them both up, debuts

1280 Indian Nut

Marco Polo encounters the coconut on his travels to Sumatra and refers to it in his writing as "nux indica," or "Indian nut"

World Coconut Day Activities

Crack one open
It’s a lot of fun to crack into a real coconut, and no, you don’t need a machete. There are a number of methods, so check out some YouTube videos. Whichever you choose, be sure to save the coconut water before prying out the sweet meat for snacking.
Cook something different
If you have only ever had coconuts in tropical drinks and macaroons, get acquainted with the savory side of this fruit. Try your hand at a coconut-based curry, coconut shrimp, coconut-lime rice, or even coconut-crusted onion rings!
Throw a tiki party
Now that you have all these coconutty delights, why not host a Polynesian-themed party? They’re best held in the backyard, where you can light the area with tiki torches. Provide leis and/or grass skirts, decorate with orchids and tropical fruit, and play some festive ukulele music to get guests in the mood. Don’t forget to put umbrellas in the drinks!

Why We Love World Coconut Day

There are so many ways to enjoy coconuts
Odds are that you have recently experienced coconut, in some form or another. If you haven’t had a smoothie or a cocktail or an entree made with coconut milk, coconut cream, coconut water, coconut oil, or the fruit itself, you may have washed your face, shampooed your hair, moisturized, or exfoliated with a coconut by-product. Coconut shells can be used as bowls, to make buttons, and to create the sound effect of horses’ hooves.
Coconuts are delicious
Coconut products add a scrumptious creaminess to any drink or dish. A smoothie takes on a tropical flair, while even the simplest curry gets depth from coconut milk. Raw coconut makes a perfect snack, and lends just the right amount of chewiness to baked goods. And unless your coconut has added sugar, it will work well in savory applications as well as sweet ones.
You guessed it — coconuts are nutritious
Is coconut the new kale? Well, probably not, but coconuts are high in iron, magnesium, fiber and protein. Coconut water provides potassium and sodium. In moderate amounts, coconut oil — a medium-chain fatty acid — is not harmful, although the jury is out on whether or not it’s helpful. And coconut products play prominent roles in gluten-free, soy-free, and vegan diets.

LydiaN586309 · ‎09-02-2019

Labor Day – September 2, 2019

Summer’s final fling has arrived in the form of Labor Day. Yes, most of us get the day off, but this holiday triggers mixed emotions. While summer still has 21 calendar days left, it’s time to get serious. School’s starting and there’s a sense that summer vacation is over. So what’s behind Labor Day — and how did it earn a place as a federal holiday?

Let’s take a look.

What is the the meaning of Labor Day?

Do you get weekends off work? Lunch breaks? Paid vacation? An eight-hour work day? Social security? If you said “yes” to any of these questions, you can thank labor unions and the U.S. labor movement for it. Years of hard-fought battles (and the ensuing legislation they inspired) resulted in many of the most basic benefits we enjoy at our jobs today . On the first Monday in September, we take the day off to celebrate Labor Day and reflect on the American worker’s contributions to our country.

When is Labor Day in 2019?

Labor Day always falls on the first Monday in September, which means anywhere from September 1 through September 7. This year it’s September 2 in the U.S. and Canada — where it’s known as Labour Day. However, this is not the case for most countries — the majority of which celebrate on May 1.

Labor Day History

Labor Day History

There’s disagreement over how the holiday began. One versions is set in September 1882 with the Knights of Labor, the largest and one of the most important American labor organizations at the time. The Knights in New York City held a public parade featuring various labor organizations on September 5 — with the aid of the fledgling Central Labor Union (CLU) of New York. Subsequently, CLU Secretary Matthew Maguire proposed that a national Labor Day holiday be held on the first Monday of each September to mark this successful public demonstration.

In another version, Labor Day in September was proposed by Peter J. McGuire, a vice president of the American Federation of Labor. In spring 1882, McGuire reportedly proposed a “general holiday for the laboring classes” to the CLU, which would begin with a street parade of organized labor solidarity and end with a picnic fundraiser for local unions. McGuire suggested the first Monday in September as an ideal date for Labor Day because the weather is great at that time of year, and it falls in between July 4th and Thanksgiving. Oregon became the first U.S. state to make it an official public holiday. Twenty-nine other states had joined by the time the federal government declared in a federal holiday in 1894.

LydiaN586309 · ‎08-15-2019

U.S.National Financial Awareness Day 2019 – August 14
How much would you like to bet that most people don’t know August 14 is National Financial Awareness Day?
It’s more important than you think. And plus, what’s more fun than financial independence? First off, think about that great feeling you get when you don’t have the looming specter of debt hanging over you. Also, sound financial decisions can really make a difference down the road. Remember, retirement is a time to take all those vacations you couldn’t when you were working the daily grind. Because money is important to our overall peace of mind, Financial Awareness Day is a great time to review where you are now and where you’re going financially. Don’t let bad financial decisions ruin the best years of your life!

National Today News: New Apple Card generates lots of interest

National Financial Awareness Day - History
1959
Put it on plastic
American Express introduced its first credit card in 1958 and the following year releases the first plastic credit card.
1950
Check, please
Frank McNamara and Ralph Schneider introduce the Diners Club Card as an alternative to cash. It has 20,000 cardholders in a year.
1946
Charge ahead
John Biggins, a banker in Brooklyn, introduces the "Charg-It" card, believed to be the first bank card. (Customers used it at local businesses, who then forwarded the bill to the bank.)
How to Observe National Financial Awareness Day
Invest
Got some money burning a hole in your pocket? Instead of spending it on some fleeting luxury, why not get in on some of that sweet return-on-investment action? Very rarely do you get the chance to spend your money on something that gives a bit back — well, unless you take a trip to Vegas, but those odds are for suckers. In the end playing it safe is always sexier than spending it all. Use National Financial Awareness Day as an excuse to start investing. It’s sure to pay off!
Take a trip to the U.S. Mint
What better way to celebrate money than by finding out how it’s made? There are four U.S. mint locations: Philadelphia, Denver, San Francisco and West Point. If pennies aren’t quite as pretty as paper to you, head down to the U.S. Bureau of Engraving and Printing or BEP for short. Not only do they offer tours and rare currency products, but you can take any of those ratty dollars that accidentally got tossed in the dryer and redeem them for free. How’s that for smart money?
Get smart about your money
National Financial Awareness Day is the perfect opportunity to make a budget. We know, we know, it’s not an attractive task but it’s so important. Find out where you spend your money by making a spreadsheet or using one of the many online services and apps that will do it for you. The numbers may shock you but that’s okay — knowledge is power!
Why National Financial Awareness Day is Important
It celebrates Easy Street
As the saying goes, why work for your money when you can make it work for you? Sometimes in the seemingly endless race to chase that paper, we forget that we don’t always need to take the uphill course. With the right knowledge, you can make the road to riches far less bumpy and a lot more scenic. Sound investment practices can help you spend less time working and more time enjoying your life.
It teaches us that finances don’t have to be confusing
In the land of the blind, the one-eyed man is king and if there's one thing most people are clueless about, it’s finance. There’s no downside to having a bit of financial literacy in life. It’s a subject many people find daunting, but taking the initiative to learn how money works will make all your peers green with envy. Just like everyone flocks to that one mechanically-inclined friend when their car breaks down, you’ll be that guy — but for money. Plus, when your car breaks down you can just buy a better one!
It reminds us to prepare for the unforeseeable future
They say money can’t buy you happiness. Perhaps — but not having money can sure bring you a lot of sadness. That’s why it’s so important to make sound investment decisions now so you’re not suffering later. You never know what kind of pitfalls life may throw your way but there’s no better safety net than having a nice contingency fund in your pocket.

LydiaN586309 · ‎08-13-2019

TODAY IS......

INTERNATIONAL LEFT HANDERS DAY- August 13

International Left Handers Day on August 13th recognizes all those individuals who have mastered using their left hand in a right-handed world. We take our hats off to you – left-handed!
Approximately 10% of the population are southpaws. Scientists don’t know why a person develops left-handedness. But it’s more likely a child will be left-handed if one parent is a lefty, too. Parents of left-handed children used to force them to use their right hands. In the eyes of right-handers, the predominant use of the left hand seemed evil. Parents feared their communities would shun their children. While we accept left-handedness more readily than days gone by, its occurrence hasn’t increased.
Famous Cartoonist Joe Wos, founder of mazetoons, states that his favorite day to celebrate is International Left Handers Day, being a lefty himself.
Many lefties seek to blend in because they will stand out soon enough. Their unique quality makes them feel awkward. They bump elbows or seem like a klutz. However, in a world designed for the right-handed, those who are other dominant adapt quite well. For example, eight United States presidents were left-handed, including Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama. Would the Sistine Chapel and the Mona Lisa stand the test of time if Michaelangelo and Leonardo de Vinci had been right-handed?
Left Handers Day recognizes the uncommon individual who throws, catches, writes, and uses a fork with their left-hand. They view the world just a little differently. At a restaurant, they seek out the seat that will place their dominant elbow on the outside of the booth. Right-handed athletes groan a bit when the southpaw shows up as an opponent on the roster. They present a challenge right-handers aren’t always sure how to handle due to lack of practice. Lefties square off against righties all the time.
Don’t be shy on Left-Handers Day. Show the world how brilliant and unique you are!
HOW TO OBSERVE #LeftHandersDay
Take a left-handed friend to lunch or out for coffee. If you’re right-handed, try doing everything with your left hand. Left-handers post photos using #lefthandersday to prove your left-handed awesomeness.
Educators, visit the National Day Calendar Classroom for a project designed just for Left-Hander’s Day. Use #NDCClassroom to let share your ideas with us.
INTERNATIONAL LEFT HANDERS DAY HISTORY
International Left Handers Day was founded in 1992 in the United Kingdom. Because of the popularity of this observation in the United States, the Registrar at National Day Calendar added the day to its list of national days.

DaveMcK · ‎08-07-2019

NATIONAL LIGHTHOUSE DAY

Observed annually on August 7, National Lighthouse Day honors the beacon of light that for hundreds of years symbolized safety and security for ships and boats at sea. At one time, the beacon of light could be found across almost all of America’s shorelines.

A lighthouse is described as a tower, building or any other type of structure that is designed to emit light from a system of lamps and lenses and used as an aid to navigation for maritime pilots at sea or on inland waterways.

Lighthouse Facts

Mark dangerous coastlines, hazardous shoals, reefs, safe entries to harbors
Assist in aerial navigation
The number of lighthouses has declined due to the expense of maintenance. Modern electric navigational systems are replacing them.
Their light source is called a lamp (either electric or oil-fueled).
Originally lit by an open fire and then candles.
Differ depending on the location and purpose but have standard components
The lantern room is a glassed-in housing at the top of a lighthouse tower
Beneath the lantern room is the Watch Room or Service Room
Next to the Watch room is an open gallery.
Development accelerated in the 17th century with Britain’s Trinity House constructing its first in 1609.
In North America, St. Augustine, Florida built the first lighthouse. Printed on a 1791 map, it had been built by Menendez after his landing in 1586.
Boston Light built on little Brewster Island next in 1716.
The oldest existing lighthouse in the United States is the Sandy Hook Lighthouse in New Jersey. Built in 1764, this lighthouse is still in operation.
At the end of the 19th century, the United States had the most lighthouses of any nation.
The 9th Act of the first Congress created the US Bureau of Lighthouses in 1789, which placed lighthouses under federal control.
The United States Coast Guard took over on July 7, 1939.
Hobbyists enjoy visiting and photographing lighthouses. They also collect ceramic replicas.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalLighthouseDay

Tour lighthouses near you. Take a road trip. With lighthouses on every coast and the great lakes, one or more is surely worth the trip! Share your photos of lighthouses and use #NationalLighthouseDay to post on social media.

NATIONAL LIGHTHOUSE DAY HISTORY

On August 7, 1789, the United States Congress approved an act for the “establishment and support of Lighthouse, Beacons, Buoys, and Public Piers.” It was two hundred years later that Congress designated August 7 as National Lighthouse Day.

There are over 1,500 national days. Don’t miss a single one. Celebrate Every Day with National Day Calendar!

Posted by Dave the Lighthouse Keeper

DaveMcK · ‎08-06-2019

NATIONAL ROOT BEER FLOAT DAY

On August 6, National Root Beer Float Day tells us to float a scoop of vanilla ice cream in an ice-cold mug of frothy root beer. The classic beverage creates a creamy treat loved by generations!

Also known as the “Black Cow,” the root beer float got its start in Colorado in a mining camp. Frank J. Wisner of Cripple Creek, Colorado, gets the credit for inventing the “Black Cow” way back in August of 1893.

One night Wisner, owner of the Cripple Creek Cow Mountain Gold Mining Company, was staring out the window and thinking about the line of soda waters he was producing for the citizens of Cripple Creek when he came upon an idea. The full moon that night shined on the snow-capped Cow Mountain and reminded him of a scoop of vanilla ice cream. He hurried back to his bar and scooped a spoonful of ice cream into the children’s favorite flavor of soda, Myers Avenue Red Root Beer. After trying, he liked it and served it the very next day. It was an immediate hit.

Wisner named the new creation, “Black Cow Mountain” but the local children shortened the name to “Black Cow”.

Since its inception, thousands of root beer floats have been enjoyed around the country each day.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalRootBeerFloatDay

Gather up some root beer and ice cream and mix up the perfect root beer float. Enjoy a root beer float over lunch or dinner at your favorite restaurant. Use #RootBeerFloatDay to post on social media and spread the word.

Also, find Root Beer Float Deals here!

If a root beer float is your favorite ice cream soda, National Ice Cream Soda Day is on June 20 so you can enjoy it twice!

ROOT BEER FLOAT HISTORY

We were unable to identify the creator of National Root Beer Float Day.

There are over 1,500 national days. Don’t miss a single one. Celebrate Every Day® with National Day Calendar®!

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Posted by Dave the Lighthouse Keeper

LydiaN586309 · ‎08-01-2019

NATIONAL GIRLFRIENDS DAY – August 1

On August 1, National Girlfriends Day encourages women across the U.S. to get together and celebrate their special bond of friendship.
Girlfriends fall into many categories. While many grew up together, others meet through work or college. Still, others share a bond much deeper; sisters and mothers meet the definition of girlfriends, too.
Though these types of relationships cross our minds frequently, we often fail to set aside time to spend with each other. The day promotes the laughter and joys girlfriends bring. Rarely do girlfriends let another go it alone. Not only do they enjoy spending time together, they support each other, too. While laughing and sharing secrets, girlfriends offer advice and celebrate successes. When it’s time for a glass of wine, a chat over a cup of coffee or to go for a long walk, girlfriends are there.
Friendship is one of the most special connections in life.
Whether we have one or many, girlfriends make life better, fuller and complete. These are the friends that can make you laugh at life’s silliest things. A girlfriend is who you turn to when life is not so kind. In its simplest of form, National Girlfriends Day celebrates the unlimited ways life is better with our girlfriends in it.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL GIRLFRIENDS DAY
Today, let your gal pals know just how much they mean to you and how special they are in your life. Go out for lunch or a drink with a friend. Give a small token of appreciation. Go to that movie you have been waiting for. Reminisce about the past. Plan a future outing. Share your dreams over a cup of coffee. Be sure these relationships don’t become neglected. Send a note. Write a card. Make that phone call. Whatever you do, reach out often to stay in touch. Post on social media using #NationalGirlfriendsDay.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL GIRLFRIENDS DAY
The earliest formal announcement of a National Girlfriends Day that National Day Calendar® found was created by mother-daughter authors Kathleen Laing and Elizabeth Butterfield in 2002. They selected September 20th for their celebration along with the publication of their book Girlfriends Getaway.
However, two other claims to National Girlfriends Day on August 1 go to Mistress Susan and savionaire.com in 2003 and Allie Savarino Kline and Sally Rodger of sisterwomen.com in 2006..

DaveMcK · ‎07-30-2019

NATIONAL CHEESECAKE DAY

National Cheesecake Day on July 30th offers a slice of one of America’s favorite desserts. Order up a slice of cheesecake with your favorite topping. Get it delivered or make it at home.

This smooth dessert hits the spot when dessert time rolls around. While most cakes have a crumb, cheesecake’s texture is nothing like cake. Indeed, its creamy, thick pudding-like character comes from the soft cheese used as the main ingredient. Depending on the recipe, either cream cheese or cottage cheese is used. When the cheese is mixed with sugar, eggs, and other ingredients, the batter is added to a crust.

When making cheesecake, one of the most common crusts used is a graham cracker crust. Other options include a cookie crust, pastry or sponge cake. However, some cheesecakes are crustless. Depending on the recipe, cheesecakes may be prepared baked or unbaked.

When faced with choosing a cheesecake flavor, don’t panic. While the options may seem overwhelming, bakers solved this problem. They offer a variety of flavors in one cake. So, take one home and try each one. Since cheesecakes do come in a wide variety, consider your tastes. If you prefer summer fruits and berries, cheesecakes have you covered. Tropical options hit the spot, too. For coffee lovers, bakers provide a rich selection. And don’t forget delicious chocolate and nutty flavors. Each cheesecake may be served with fresh fruit, a sauce, whipped cream or plain.

History of the Cheesecake

When it comes to searching cheesecake history, we look to ancient Greece. A form of the dessert comes up as recipe served to athletes. It has been found that the earliest attested mention of a cheesecake is by Greek physician Aegimus, who 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. Today, cheesecake makers use this brand more than any other.

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 NATIONAL CHEESECAKE DAY

Whether you make one at home or pick one up at a bakery, savor the creamy taste of cheesecake! We even have a New York Cheesecake recipe for you to try. And here’s another recipe, too! Post on social media using #NationalCheesecakeDay and share your favorite variety.

HISTORY NATIONAL CHEESECAKE DAY

We were unable to find the creator and the origin of National Cheesecake Day.

Posted by Dave the Lighthouse Keeper

LydiaN586309 · ‎07-28-2019

IT IS ALSO.....

National Parents’ Day – July 28, 2019

Where would we be without our parents, the people who loved us even before we were born? They do so much for us every day of our young lives and the love doesn’t stop once we’re adults. That’s why it’s good to honor them on their special day, National Parents’ Day, celebrated on the fourth Sunday in July.

While Mother’s and Father’s days were first officially celebrated in the early 1900s, (and National Grandpa Day is already approaching its 40 year anniversary); National Parents’ Day wasn’t established until 1994. That’s when President Bill Clinton signed a Congressional Resolution “recognizing, uplifting, and supporting the role of parents in bringing up their children.” Well said!

National Parents’ Day - History October 14, 1994 National Parents’ Day is official

President Bill Clinton signs the resolution and National Parents’ Day is born.

October 4, 1994 Resolution passes

The House and Senate have both signed the Parents’ Day resolution.

August 5, 1994 National Parents’ Day resolution introduced

The U.S. House of Representatives introduces a resolution establishing the fourth Sunday in July as National Parents’ Day.

1987 Parenting magazine debuts

Its circulation reached more than 2.2 million before its final issue was released in 2013.

February 17, 1897 PTA formed

The National Parent Teacher Association originally formed as the National Congress of Mothers in Washington, D.C.

National Parents’ Day Activities

Call or visit them
Parents love visits from the kids and grandkids. And let’s face it — they aren’t going to be around forever, as much as we wish they could be. We should tell our parents how much they mean to us.
Tell them they were right
Parents are always dispensing wisdom and advice as we grow up, most of it unsolicited. As kids, we often dismiss these truths or ignore them outright. Then, we grow up and have kids of our own — and we realize how right our parents were about pretty much everything all along.
Give them a holiday for the holiday
Find out where your parents have always wanted to go and send them on vacation. Take care of every detail so that all your folks have to do is show up at the airport — or the cruise ship terminal!

LydiaN586309 · ‎07-28-2019

TODAY IS.....

National Milk Chocolate Day – July 28, 2019

Calling all chocolate lovers! National Milk Chocolate Day is celebrated annually on July 28. When solid chocolate is combined with either powdered, liquid or condensed milk; it’s known as milk chocolate. Milk chocolate is the most popular member of the chocolate family and with good reason. It’s creamy, smooth and mostly used in candy bars. It is believed that in the mid-1800s, milk chocolate was first created as a beverage in Germany. The first milk chocolate, in the form of a bar that we all recognize today, was created by Swiss chocolatier Daniel Peter while collaborating with Henri Nestlé, the founder of his Nestlé chocolate company. So if you’re a true chocoholic, get ready to celebrate all things milk chocolate!

National Milk Chocolate Day Activities

Eat a candy bar
Since it's National Milk Chocolate Day, your task is a delicious one. Grab your favorite milk chocolate candy bar and enjoy. With so many mouth-watering choices like caramel, coconut or cookie nugget — take your pick. Then, spend some time licking the melted good stuff off your fingers.
Bake a cake
During the Victorian era, baking a cake was expensive because sweet ingredients like sugar, chocolates and exotic fruits, were considered as luxuries. Only the nobility and the upper middle class could afford cakes for birthdays, weddings or holidays. As prices dropped, every special occasion included a cake, ideally made out of milk chocolate and stacked in multiple layers.
Drink your chocolate
No kids allowed. Dessert cocktails are perfect when you’re having a chocolate craving. They’re rich, creamy and made to satisfy that sweet tooth. Your favorite alcoholic beverage can be a perfect complement to milk chocolate.

Why We Love National Milk Chocolate Day

It’s the perfect ingredient
Nothing gets us more excited to bake than the idea of whipping up a milky, chocolaty dessert when we're done. Whether the recipe uses milk chocolate chips or a milk chocolate bar, a chocolate craving provides the perfect excuse to create a decadent, totally self-indulgent treat. Chocolate pudding, chocolate chip cookies, brownies, a triple-layered cake, whatever, just as long as the main ingredient is milky, silky, chocolate. Don't forget to lick the bowl!
It's sweet yet adaptable
We all know you can eat the sweet treat but did you know there are other uses for it, too? Milk chocolate is sometimes used in products for hair and skin care because it contains little-known ingredients that are beneficial to your skin. The level of antioxidant compounds in cocoa is higher than that of green tea, black tea or red wine.
Don't believe the negative hype about milk chocolate not being nutritious
Ok, so the nutritional benefits of milk chocolate are not as extensive as those found in dark chocolate. But milk chocolate still has a lot going for it. For example, milk chocolate gives you stamina because it stimulates your brain and your emotions. Also, eaten in moderation, milk chocolate gives our bodies the fat we need in our daily diet.

DaveMcK · ‎07-26-2019

Today is National Aunt and Uncle Day!

Aunts and uncles are the best — they’re like moms and dads, with all the fun and none of the fuss (or all of the perks and none of the rules). Aunts and uncles are notoriously great listeners. As a kid, it can be wonderful having an adult set of ears that don’t belong to your own mother or father and aunts and uncles fill that role perfectly. There are plenty of reasons to celebrate the aunts and uncles of the world and on July 26, we commemorate National Aunt and Uncle Day!

This is our three daughters aunt Diana and uncle Gordy.

Also: On National Coffee Milkshake Day on July 26, drink a cool beverage that will really hit the spot. It’s hot, you love ice cream and you can use a caffeinated, sugary boost. To your rescue comes the delicious, coffee milkshake — a product of sheer human culinary ingenuity. National Coffee Milkshake Day encourages you to enjoy a true coffee milkshake mixed with your favorite ice cream and coffee flavors. Discover the taste of summer!

Posted by Dave the Lighthouse Keeper

DaveMcK · ‎07-20-2019

July 20th! In Honor of National Lollipop Day. Better late than never.

Posted by Dave the Lighthouse Keeper

LydiaN586309 · ‎07-17-2019

National Hot Dog Day – July 17, 2019

For the uninitiated, National Hot Dog Day may sound pretty straightforward. It’s a celebration of grilled wieners and toasted buns, and the long history this iconic summer meal has had in North America. But there’s far more to this pork-based pig out than that. This July 17, you’ll have the opportunity to learn all about why people come together throughout the hot dog-eating world to celebrate National Hot Dog Day. While the exact history of National Hot Dog Day is as obscure as the ingredients of your uncle’s secret dog sauce, we’re not too worried about the origins. What’s more important these days is the myriad ways people celebrate all over the country. Typically, restaurants or fast food chains will offer deep-discount dogs, while some cities host day-long events to raise money for a specific charity. Here you’ll find some of America’s most treasured champions: Hot dog eating winners, root beer chugging enthusiasts, and lightning quick wiener dogs, just to name a few.

National Hot Dog Day - History 1916 An employee of Felman's named Nathan Handwerker opens Nathan's Famous on Coney Island, selling hot dogs for just 5 cents (Feltman charged 10)1870 Charles Feltman begins selling sausages in rolls on Coney Island in New York.18th Century A butcher begins selling Frankfurters in Vienna, Austria13th Century Frankfurter Wuerstchen are given out in Germany on the eve of imperial coronations

National Hot Dog Day Activities

Find a famous party
Across the countries, cities and towns are holding official parties to celebrate dog day. If you’re in the Washington, D.C., area, check out the Hot Dog Lunch on Capitol Hill, where you can chow down and rub elbows with more than a thousand members of Congress, lobbyists, journalists and other government officials. Just be sure not to spill your mustard on them. Other famous parties can be found in the village of Alfred, New York, and Huntington, West Virginia.
Build a hot dog bar
All you need is a grill, some friends, a hot summer day, and some cold drinks to have your own footlong fiesta. Get creative by setting up a bar with less-than-common condiments, and see how adventurous you and your friends really are.
Find your city’s best wiener
Every city’s got one. That one restaurant that boasts having the greatest hot dogs in the state. Do a little research in your own area, and perhaps make a road trip out of it to test whether it really is the cream-of-the-crop Coney.

LydiaN586309 · ‎07-16-2019

National Corn Fritter Day – July 16, 2019

High summer is peak season for delicious corn, so what better day to celebrate National Corn Fritter Day than July 16? We love eating corn in all ways — cornbread, corn salad, corn hash, corn on the cob slathered in butter — but one of our very favorites is crispy, golden brown corn fritters. A fritter is a dish where some ingredient (meat, fruit, vegetables, seafood, you name it) is mixed with batter and fried. Corn fritters originated as a dish in the South but now can be found on menus throughout the country. The traditional version includes a plain batter and corn but you can find all sorts of variations out there. Just try Googling “corn fritter recipe” and you’ll get more than 800,000 results! We love them on their own as a snack at pretty much any time of day, or as a tasty side to round out any meal (yes, even breakfast). Pour yourself a glass of iced tea, sit back, and let summer wash over you as we take some time to appreciate the fact that there’s an entire day dedicated to this delectable dish. No corn-y jokes, we promise.

National Corn Fritter Day Activities

Make your own
Corn fritters are made out of ingredients you most likely already have in your pantry: flour, baking powder, eggs, milk, and butter. All you need to do is mix them together, stir in some corn (fresh, canned, or frozen), and fry them up in hot oil. You could even make a whole dinner party out of it and serve them alongside a bunch of other Southern-inspired dishes.
Harvest your own corn
See if you can find a pick-your-own farm near you that grows corn, and get lost in the corn fields. Maybe if you’re lucky they’ll have a corn maze, too. If you can’t find a farm, buy some fresh corn on the cob from your local grocery store and shuck it yourself—the hard labor will make the fresh corn in your fritters taste so much better.
Branch out to another cuisine
Did you know that corn fritters are also an incredibly popular dish in Indonesia? Over there they’re known as perkedel jagung. Their version is similar to ours, but with some key differences. They kick up the spice level by mixing scallions, shallots, and garlic into the batter, and they deep fry the fritters in coconut oil. Indian pakoras are another form of Asian fritter, and they’re delicious when made with corn.

Why We Love National Corn Fritter Day

They’re all-American
Corn is the number one crop grown in the United States, and we produce more corn than any country in the world. We grow so much of it that there’s actually a region known as the Corn Belt. The majority of it goes into livestock feed or is turned into biofuel in the form of ethanol, but it’s also a distinct ingredient in American cuisine. There’s a reason why no Fourth of July meal feels complete without some sort of corn dish on your plate.
They’re versatile
The traditional corn fritter recipe calls for savory ingredients, but many people choose to sweeten them up by dusting them with powdered sugar or serving them with a sweet topping like honey, maple syrup, or jam. And because the recipe is so simple, you can think of them as a blank canvas. Want to throw some onion in there? Chop up some fresh herbs like parsley or dill? Kick them up with cayenne powder? Go for it.
They’re fried
And let’s be honest: it’s hard to find a food that doesn’t taste better when fried. It may not be the healthiest way to eat, but everything in moderation, right? Besides, holidays were meant to be celebrated.

LydiaN586309 · ‎07-15-2019

National Pet Fire Safety Day – July 15, 2019

For many of us, pets are our most precious asset so it makes sense that we would dedicate a day to keeping them safe during one of the scariest things we can imagine. National Pet Fire Safety Day takes place every year on July 15, and it’s a day to learn how to keep your pet safe in a fire. It was started by the Kennel Club and ADT Security in 2009 to help pet owners learn safety measures to protect their beloved pets and homes from fire, and it’s a great opportunity to learn how to keep your fur baby safe.

National Pet Fire Safety Day - History 2009 The Awareness Begins

The Kennel Club and ADT Security decided it was time to get serious about pet fire protection

1988 Emotional Support Animals Protected

The Fair Housing Amendments Act allows people to keep their ESAs, despite landlords

6,000 B.C. Sacred Dog Burials

Special dog graves include expensive items. Proof of their deep meaning to humans

13,000 B.C. People Make Pets

Evidence suggests people bred dogs in Europe and Asia around this time

How to Observe National Pet Fire Safety Day

Get this useful decoration
On July 15, get a free Pet Fire Safety Window Cling at your local volunteer firehouse. First responders will see this and know to look out for any pets inside.
Share it to save lives
Use #PetFireSafetyDay to post on social media and raise awareness to friends and family about the day and ways that they can keep their pets safe from fires.
Have a fire drill
For families with kids, this tradition is even more important. Discuss your family evacuation plan, designate someone to carry out the pets and execute a fire drill on this day every year.

5 Facts About Pet Fire Safety

Pyro Pets
Pets cause over 1,000 house fires each year in the United States
A Big Problem
Nearly 360,000 house fires occur each year in the United States
Save a Life
Over 40,000 pets die every year in house fires. Awareness can save lives
Furry (and Slithering) Heroes
There are thousands of stories about pets, even snakes, saving humans from house fires
Have a Plan
The #1 tip is to have an escape plan that includes your pets

Why National Pet Fire Safety Day is Important

Keep your pets out of trouble
There are many ways to keep your pet from causing fire. Blow out candles before leaving home, block off access to kitchen or remove stove knobs if pets can reach it, and keep any and all wires out of chewing distance, especially from kittens and puppies!
Have a pet rescue plan in place
Discuss with your family who will be in charge of rescuing your pet in the event of a fire. Planning and practicing fire drills will help the family remain calm and help ensure that your pets are not forgotten during a chaotic evacuation.
Make rescuers aware of your pets and their hiding places
As part of your evacuation plan, include a list of your pet’s hiding places, so that firefighters will know where to look in case your pets don’t make it out with you. Also, make sure your pets have collars with up to date tags attached in case they escape on their own.

LydiaN586309 · ‎07-11-2019

Today is........

National Free Slurpee Day – July 11, 2019

Each year, approximately 7,290,000 gallons of Slurpee are consumed worldwide. For comparison, that’s enough sugary substance to fill TWELVE Olympic-size swimming pools. If that alone isn’t enough to convince you of the world’s unanimous love for Slurpees — well, we aren’t quite sure what will. What we do know is that National Free Slurpee Day falls on July 11 each year and gives humanity a reason to unite for the greater good: free, ice-cold Slurpees. The Slurpee, an exceptionally sweet, slushee-type beverage sold and marketed by 7-Eleven, was invented on accident back in the late 1950’s and originally bore the name ICEE. It later became the well-known drink that we love and adore, and in 2002, the very first National Free Slurpee Day was celebrated in correlation with 7-Eleven’s 75th birthday. The long-standing tradition allows one to stop by a participating 7-Eleven on July 11, between the hours of 11am and 7pm, and receive a free, 12 oz Slurpee (while supplies last — so get there early). Join us while we ode to the greatest summer drink of all time!

LydiaN586309 · ‎06-23-2019

TODAY IS...

National Hydration Day – June 23, 2019

Each June 23, the U.S. celebrates National Hydration Day. Proper hydration is vital to living a healthy life, but it’s often overlooked. It’s easy to forget to carry a water bottle on a hot day outside, but skipping out on H2O can lead to major health risks. National Hydration Day was created in honor of late football coach Victor Hawkins, who invented a special hydrating mouthguard to keep his players healthy on the field. SafeTGard, the company that now sells his invention, launched the holiday after Hawkins’ passing to honor his legacy and to encourage others to stay hydrated. Whether you’re a professional athlete, a casual exerciser, or someone who simply loves to spend time outside in the sun, drinking water is key to avoiding heat stroke, dehydration, and other dangerous issues. Celebrating National Hydration Day is a great way to raise awareness!

National Hydration Day Activities

Set reminders to regularly hydrate during the day
Write out reminders on post-it notes or type them into your phone. You can even download apps that remind you to drink a set amount of water each day. After following these reminders for a while, they’ll likely become a habit that you’ll practice without even thinking about it.
Tell everyone you know to stay hydrated
Remind your loved ones that it’s important to drink lots of water each day, especially when they’re outdoors in the summer or are exercising. People often forget to prioritize hydration, but being prompted by a friend or family member who cares can stand as a great reminder.
Make some tasty infused water
If you avoid drinking water because you find the taste a little bland, infuse a pitcher of water with mix-ins like lemon wedges, cucumber slices, strawberries, cantaloupe, mint, or other refreshing produce. Sometimes, simply having a tasty beverage on hand can make all the difference. You can even take things a step further by filling up grab-and-go bottles of infused water at the beginning of each week, or filling up a special pitcher for your desk at work.

Why We Love National Hydration Day

It encourages healthy physical activity
We all know how great exercise can be for our health, but working out while dehydrated is anything but healthy. Water provides your body with the power and fuel it needs to get you through a workout or a busy afternoon outside. When you’re properly hydrated, you’re able to exercise in a happy, healthy way—and that makes your mind and body happy.
It inspires people to make other positive choices
When you’re properly hydrated, you may find that you feel a lot better than you do when your body is short on water. (After all, dehydration can cause symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and feelings of exhaustion.) Getting into the habit of drinking water more often can feel like a victory, and that may inspire you to build other healthy habits into your life. The sky’s the limit!
It reminds us of how important our health is.
Heat stroke or dehydration can happen to anyone, no matter how healthy they may seem on the surface. Symptoms can sneak up on you, and nobody is immune to the risks of not staying hydrated enough. Hydration awareness is an important reminder that no matter how young, agile, or fit we may feel, our bodies need water, and health isn’t something to mess around with.

LydiaN586309 · ‎06-21-2019

TODAY IS.......

International Yoga Day – June 21, 2019

FRIJUN 21

If you had to guess which bill presented to the United Nations General Assembly had the highest number of co-sponsors ever, which would you guess? You probably wouldn’t think of International Day of Yoga—but that’s the answer! India’s Prime Minister called for the adoption of June 21st as International Day of Yoga, and here we are celebrating today. You may know yoga as a recent workout trend, but yoga has Indian roots that date back as far as 5000 years ago. In ancient India, yoga was considered a mental, physical, and spiritual way to practice meditation and transform the body and mind. So grab your yoga mat and let’s get to work. Namaste!

International Yoga Day Activities

Bring Your Tree Pose to Nature
Practicing outside can breathe some fresh air into your yoga poses. Practice on the beach, at your local park, or even in your backyard. Surrounding yourself in a new environment can be much more engaging by having new things to focus on.
Do your om thing
Create your own flow of movements and discover new combinations to your favorite music. Sometimes a change in movement or music can help you focus your energy and sync your breathing perfectly to musical transitions.
Introduce a friend to the yogi lifestyle
Bringing a friend can be just the right motivation you need to revamp your practice. Not only will their presence inspire you to strengthen your poses, but also they can score big on free yoga deals for new students. Win win.

LydiaN586309 · ‎06-12-2019

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National Loving Day – June 12, 2019

Celebrate your loved one on National Loving Day! Every June 12, we honor the United States Supreme Court’s 1967 decision to strike down laws in several states that banned interracial marriage. The decision was sparked by Loving v. Virginia, a court case involving Richard and Mildred Loving, an interracial couple from Virginia who married in 1958. Upon returning home after their wedding, they were arrested. The couple fought back against the laws that forbid their partnership, and ultimately won the right to marry. Richard and Mildred’s determination changed the lives of millions of Americans and shaped the future of relationships in the country. From June 12, 1967 onward, Americans were no longer prohibited from marrying someone they loved solely because they were of different races. At the time of the Supreme Court’s decision, sixteen U.S. states still forbid interracial marriage, so the ruling was a necessary game-changer.The holiday was not created until decades after the decision, in 2004. It was launched by Ken Tanabe, who grew up in an interracial family with a Japanese father and a Belgian mother. He launched the holiday in hopes that the day of celebration would bring together multiethnic families from around the world.

National Loving Day Activities

Host a barbecue
National Loving Day is often celebrated with backyard barbecues. Invite your family and friends over for great food and a celebration of love. Early June is the perfect time for a summer gathering, and what better reason than to honor a holiday that’s all about love?
Attend a festival
Many communities mark National Loving Day with joyful festivals and city-wide celebrations. New York City hosts the holiday’s flagship celebration each year, and other communities also host parties and gatherings. Find one near you at LovingDay.org, or consider hosting your own!
Watch a film inspired by the holiday
National Loving Day inspired the film Loving, a cinematic tribute to the couple that started it all. The movie, which was released in 2016, follows the story of Richard and Mildred Loving’s arrest, legal battle, and ultimate Supreme Court victory nine years later. The film was nominated for an Oscar and received widespread critical praise. If documentaries are more your style, press play on The Loving Story, a 2012 HBO film that shares little-known details of the couple’s journey. Kicking back on the couch with one of these films is a great way to reflect on the struggles that went into securing rights for couples of all races.

Why We Love National Loving Day

It celebrates love in all forms
National Loving Day is a great opportunity to acknowledge the fact that love does not discriminate, and that millions of families throughout the U.S. and around the world consist of multiple races and ethnicities. Love is love — and what’s more beautiful than that?
It honors the Loving couple’s bravery
Richard and Mildred Loving’s bold choice to fight for their rights created a better future for so many of their fellow Americans. Had the Supreme Court not ruled in their favor, millions of happy families that consist of more than one race may not exist today. The freedom to marry whomever we love was granted far more recently than most of us realize, and it’s important to protect that right in any way we can. National Loving Day is a great reminder to appreciate our current liberties and to ensure our rights are always recognized.
It spreads awareness
National Loving Day is a great cue to ditch discrimination and treat all families and couples with the respect they deserve. It’s also a reminder that race is not what matters in a happy relationship — what’s important is that a couple is happy and compatible.

LydiaN586309 · ‎06-07-2019

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National Donut Day – June 7, 2019

Random thoughts on June 7 — National Donut Day — from a pair of highly regarded scholars:

“Whether you take the donut hole as a blank space or as an entity unto itself is a purely metaphysical question — and does not affect the taste of the donut one bit.”
— Haruki Murakami (Japanese writer)
“Mmmmmm…donuts.”
— Homer Simpson (Husband)

Here we go. Donuts are religion in the U.S. Perhaps no snack food symbolizes all-out joy for Americans like this chewy deep-fried treat. We seem to want them all the time. Bring a box to the office during any part of the workday and just see how long they last.

National Donut Day falls on the first Friday in June each year. This replaces The Salvation Army’s “Donut Day” event created in 1938 to honor members who served donuts to soldiers during World War I.

Here are some National Donut Day 2019 deals:

Dunkin’: Get a free donut when you purchase a beverage.

Krispy Kreme: Stores are giving away one free donut to anyone who comes in on Friday, no purchase necessary. Yes, you can pick from the whole menu!

Tim Hortons: This chain doesn't so much have a deal or freebie offer, but it did decide to introduce a new doughnut Friday. Tim Hortons will debut a churro flavor, a honey cruller filled with caramel filling and topped with cinnamon sugar. Just note, the rollout will be at participating locations Friday, then debuted at the rest of its locations starting June 12, for a limited time only, according to published reports.

Walmart: Looks like someone’s trying to one-up Krispy Kreme! Walmart is trying to give away 1.2 million doughnuts Friday, so just head over to the bakery section at your nearest store and you can get one glazed doughnut for free.

Entenmann’s: Well, Entenmann’s isn’t handing out any freebies Friday, but the company does have a cool-sounding contest going on.

From now until June 14, Entenmann’s is running the Fan Flavor Challenge & Sweepstakes in hopes of finding its next big flavor. If you win, you’ll score $5,000 and free doughnuts for an entire year. To enter, head to the sweepstakes site and create your own doughnut, picking a base, flavor, glaze and topping -- then, provide a brief summary for why you like Entenmann’s doughnuts. Be sure to come up with a creative name for your creation! The winning entry will debut during the holiday season.

Also, if you have a favorite neighborhood shop, check its social media pages. It appears many mom-and-pop-type smaller businesses are running deals, special flavors and promotions of their own.

LydiaN586309 · ‎06-06-2019

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National Moonshine Day – June 6, 2019

Moonshine, once a fiery (and illegal) homemade liquor, has now gone legit. Still, the drink conjures up colorful early 20th century memories of Prohibition, fast cars, and makeshift stills in the Appalachian woods. So, when it’s time to celebrate National Moonshine Day on June 6, you can indulge guilt-free.

The drink achieved legendary status upon the passage of the 18th Amendment (Prohibition) in 1919. At that point, Americans who wanted to drink alcohol had to turn to the black market of the day, which belonged to the moonshiners and bootleggers. They distilled the moonshine and then delivered it, making criminals of everyone involved.

Today large distilleries sell moonshine, looking to rekindle nostalgic memories of the illicit drink. But the days of cheap, questionable brews with deadly contaminants are thankfully over.

National Moonshine Day Activities

Try a craft whiskey
Craft whiskeys are those distilled by small companies or even individuals. These whiskeys are made in a non-mechanized way. So if you want to feel like you’re celebrating the days of moonshining, a craft whiskey is going to put you closer than drinking large batch whiskey from one of the well-known distillers. We can’t guarantee your craft whiskey came from a still in someone’s back yard, but we can’t guarantee it didn’t either.
Watch a NASCAR race
The origin of NASCAR is filled with stories of bootleggers hauling moonshine in their souped-up cars, running from authorities. As the need for bootleggers waned, the drivers needed a way to show off their fast cars. They eventually began racing each other on local back roads, and then on dirt ovals. NASCAR was born. Historians note North Carolina's tradition of auto racing developed in the garages of bootleggers, particularly on the roads between North Wilkesboro and Charlotte. Today’s NASCAR doesn’t much resemble the early days of back roads and bootleggers, but the whiskey doesn’t much resemble moonshine’s risk of blindness either. Both are good things.
Work in the moonlight
Want to gain a feel for the difficulty of moonshining? Those making moonshine had to work in the dark to help them hide from authorities. Moonlight was their only guide. So you can try doing an outdoor chore only by moonlight. (Preferably something that doesn’t involve fast-moving blades or working on a ladder please – safety first, after all.)