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Post by pennmom on Mar 24, 2022 21:41:59 GMT
Tolkien Reading Day – March 25, 2022~World
Enthusiasts of the extensive bibliography of J.R.R. Tolkien find today one of their favorite days of the entire year because it is Tolkien Reading Day, celebrated every March 25. Fans around the world reach for their favorite Tolkien literary works to reread the books, discuss them with friends, and escape the ho-hum world here on Earth for the otherworldly, magical land of Middle-earth.
HISTORY OF TOLKIEN READING DAY
The Tolkien Society established Tolkien Reading Day in 2003 after Sean Kirst, a newspaper columnist in Syracuse, New York, suggested the holiday. The purpose of the observance is to honor the vast literary work of John Ronald Reuel (J.R.R.) Tolkien, father of the high fantasy genre, and to encourage educators and library groups to advance Tolkien reading in their communities and ensure people have access to his works.
March 25 was chosen as the date to celebrate annually because it marks the date of Sauron’s defeat, a key evil character in “Lord of the Rings.” Kirst has organized Tolkien Reading Day every year since 2008.
Tolkien’s popularity grew to cult status even before his death in 1973. The ‘Tolkienist’ fanatic subculture emerged in the U.S. in the 1960s as the popularity of “Lord of the Rings” catapulted following its publication between 1954 and 1955. The first fan club, known as ‘The Fellowship of the Ring’ met for the first time at Worldcon, the World Science Fiction Convention, in 1960.
Tolkien’s work influenced many authors in the high fantasy genre but it also inspired modern-day, pop-cultural elements such as games (board games, video games, card games), music, action figures, jewelry, clothing, and even fonts you can use in your own writing. Why not write that letter or presentation for work in the Elven Common Speak font? Hopefully, these ideas and more below will inspire your own Tolkien Reading Day celebration!
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Post by pennmom on Mar 24, 2022 21:45:44 GMT
![]() National Physicians Week – March 25-31, 2022~U.S.
This National Physicians Week, from March 25–31, we can show doctors we appreciate them as much as they deserve with creative gifts, simple notes, and appreciation posts online. Doctors deal with years of school, grueling shifts, and emotionally difficult decisions, and still manage to care for us with focus and kindness. Physicians drastically improve the duration and quality of life for everyone, and throughout history have done their best to use cutting-edge science to care for others. Physician appreciation is also symbolized by a red carnation, so be sure to bring one to your favorite doc this week!
HISTORY OF NATIONAL PHYSICIANS WEEK
The medical profession is one of the oldest, dating back to 25,000 B.C. Healers completing their jobs are depicted on cave walls in France. It wasn’t until almost 20,000 years later that true surgery was born in Egypt, where the first public health system was established. In fact, Egyptians even performed root canals, much like we still do today.
In Greece, medical ethics were born. Hippocrates penned the famous and still-used Hippocratic oath around 500 B.C., which states that doctors must do no harm. By the 1100s, medical schools and hospitals began to be established across Europe. Some of the earliest ones were founded in Paris, Salerno, and Oxford. The works of Hippocrates and other Greek physicians were taught. Though medical schools had already existed for some time, the word ‘physician’ was not added to the dictionary until 1400.
There was a great expansion of the profession in the late 1700s and 1800s, starting in 1766 with the chartering of the first medical organization. In 1847, the American Medical Association was established, and 1849 saw the first woman medical student, Elizabeth Blackwell, graduate from Geneva Medical College in New York. Notable advancements of physicians in the 1900s included the 1937 establishment of the first blood bank, the first human to human heart transplant in 1967, and the first artificial heart implanted in a patient in 1982.
The movement that created National Physicians Week began in 2016 when the advocacy group Physicians Working Together (PWT) sought to celebrate and acknowledge physicians everywhere. The group started on social media with the goal to relieve stress and foster connections for doctors. The movement has come a long way — founder Dr. Kim Jackson says it has helped physicians find better connections with each other and with their patients. |
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Post by pennmom on Mar 26, 2022 14:31:47 GMT
National Nougat Day – March 26, 2022~U.S.
We always support the underdog at National Today and this time on National Nougat Day on March 26, we are  for this often-overlooked candy. Whether you like your sweets soft, smooth, crunchy, fluffy, or a combination of all those, the iconic nougat has got your back, fam. The classic dessert is made with whipped egg whites, sweet honey, and roasted nuts. This version of the white nougat is the most common one out there. Other forms also include brown, black, and beige — each varying due to cultural differences. This sweet treat has an interesting history. You may have eaten a chocolate bar that is filled with nougat a hundred times, but did you know that the original purpose of putting nougat inside a chocolate bar was to create an illusionary ice-cream effect? Now that’s neat and sweet!
HISTORY OF NATIONAL NOUGAT DAY
Illusionary effects and magical journeys are part of nougat’s history. While today it is enjoyed all over the world with each region adding its unique flavors to it, there are many disputes as to where exactly it originated from.
Some historical scholars claim that the first recorded instance of nougat being consumed was in the Middle East during the 10th century. Iraq, Syria, and Turkey have several centuries-old manuscripts that point to their existence. On the other hand, historians also have recorded evidence of nougat existing in the first century in Rome. Another fascinating story of nougat’s origins points to a chef inventing the recipe on the spot in honor of a wedding couple.
As globalization increased over the centuries, the humble nougat traveled from the Middle East to Europe, and then to the rest of the world, gaining popularity as it did so. Before it became common amongst the masses, nougat was considered a luxury, only being eaten at special occasions like weddings, birthdays, Christmas, etc. During WW2, it was also rationed among soldiers to give them a morale boost.
The word ‘nougat’ originates from the French dialect Occitan and it means ‘nut bread’ or ‘nut cake,’ which is interesting because it does not have any key ingredients that make a bread except for eggs, and that too only egg whites. With all these wonderful reasons at its core, National Nougat Day has a special place in many people’s hearts, and it’s not just because of its delicious taste.
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Post by pennmom on Mar 26, 2022 14:33:26 GMT
Wear A Hat Day – March 26, 2022~World
We celebrate Wear A Hat Day on March 26 as a fun and fabulous way to raise awareness for brain-tumor research, and raise funds while we’re at it! The holiday was created as a way to get our heads (and hats) together to advance research in finding a cure for brain tumors. You don’t need to have been affected to make a difference, so we’ve got some ideas to get you a-head this Wear A Hat Day!
HISTORY OF WEAR A HAT DAY
Occurring in around 250,000 people globally each year, we still have a long way to go in the study of brain tumors. But, thankfully, due to scientific advances in the fields of chemotherapy and radiation, the survival rate is higher than ever before.
Once, brain tumors meant the end for the unfortunate individuals who developed them. It wasn’t until 1879 when Scottish surgeon William Macewen became the first person to successfully remove a brain tumor. His patient, a young woman, recovered fully, and the tide was turned in the fight against the illness.
The scientific process that was developed over the following few years meant a speedy advancement in our understanding and treatment of the condition. The discovery of X-rays meant that it became possible to locate tumors of the brain accurately through scanning. This has continued to be the best way to identify brain tumors ever since and, in the 1970s, the development of computed tomography (CT) scanning allowed physicians to see a clear image of the brain for the first time.
Despite these significant advances in the last 150 years, there is still no fail-safe cure for brain tumors. As a result, we get together on Wear A Hat Day to raise money and awareness for brain tumor research. Typically used as a form of protection from external elements, hats are worn as a symbol of internal protection on this day, too. By talking more about the condition, we help each other to spot symptoms early on and by raising funds we provide support for the amazing scientists working on a cure.
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Post by pennmom on Mar 26, 2022 14:35:15 GMT
Nike Air Max Day – March 26, 2022~U.S.
Nike Air Max Day is celebrated on March 26 with a design that made it one of the most iconic sneakers in history. Nike is well-known now, and a lot of its fame is a result of perfect branding. In the Spring of 1972, Nike’s infamous “Swoosh” logo further fortified its brand recognition. The name is an onomatopoeia of the sound when something rapidly passes by you, which makes it the perfect fit for Air Max sneakers which are designed for running.
HISTORY OF NIKE AIR MAX DAY
Blue Ribbon Sports was founded by track-and-field coach at the University of Oregon, Bill Bowerman, and his former student, Phil Knight. Their first retail store opened in 1966 and the Nike brand shoe was launched in 1972. As they expanded, they renamed their company Nike officially in 1978. The growth of the company continued through the decade as it acquired more companies. It wasn’t long until the “Swoosh” brand became synonymous with quality.
As the company grew, so did its styles of sneaks. The Air Max 1 was released on March 26, 1987, and it revitalized the brand just when it was plateauing. It was the first sneaker that featured the Air Max cushioning and had a visible window. It was created by sneaker designer Tinker Hatfield, inspired by art and music of the day, and its design and effectiveness attributed to the shoe’s success.
The original sneaker did well enough to call for a sequel in the form of the Air Max Light, also known as the Air Max II. It was released in 1989 and it was a lightweight version of the original. It still featured a similar aesthetic, yet over time it got overshadowed by flashier silhouettes and designs in the Air Max catalog, like Air Max 95 “Neon” and the Air Max 97 “Silver Bullet”. As it happens, its underratedness made it a prized possession for hardcore sneakerheads.
The popularity of Air Max continued into the 21st century and it was given its own day in 2014 because of its longevity and worldwide appeal. It’s one of Nike’s most successful lines of footwear for over three decades and it’s celebrated with releases of new Air Max sneakers and limited edition styles. It’s a day when fans come together to share their love for the one-of-a-kind shoe.
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Post by pennmom on Mar 26, 2022 14:36:38 GMT
National Spinach Day – March 26, 2022~U.S.
Remember this?
“I’m Popeye the Sailor Man
I’m Popeye the Sailor Man
I’m strong to the finich
‘Cause I eats me spinach…”
We’re quoting the world’s best-loved animated sailor since it’s National Spinach Day on March 26! Not only does spinach provide iron, it’s also an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin A, and vitamin C — not to mention manganese and magnesium. Join us as we cook up some delicious ways to enjoy.
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Post by pennmom on Mar 26, 2022 14:38:27 GMT
Prince Kuhio Day – March 26, 2022~Other~U.S.
The People’s Prince is celebrated annually on Prince Kuhio Day on March 26. Prince Kuhio was a Hawaiian prince and advocated for the rights of his people. He was mainly known for the Hawaiian Homes Act, and the initiation of the bill to make Hawaii an official state of the United States.
HISTORY OF PRINCE KUHIO DAY
Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole was a prince of the Kingdom of Hawaiʻi until 1893 when it was overthrown by a coalition of American and European businessmen. He later went on to become a representative in the Territory of Hawaii as a delegate to the United States Congress, and as such is the only member of Congress ever born into royalty.
Prince Kuhio, as he’s usually called, was also named the Prince of the People, and is well known for his efforts to preserve and strengthen the Hawaiian people. He was born on March 26, 1871, and was named heir after being adopted by his maternal aunt, Queen Liliuokalani in 1884. He studied in California and at the Royal Agricultural College in England, and was 24 years old when he joined the Royalist uprising against the new republic in 1895, eventually leading to his capture and conviction of treason.
On September 1, 1902, Kuhio decided to join the Republican Party and was nominated as their candidate for Congress. Kūhiō was then elected delegate to the U.S. Congress as a Republican, winning 10 consecutive elections thereafter.
In 1918, Kuhio founded the first Hawaiian Civic Club and facilitated the passing of the women’s suffrage bill alongside New England suffragist Almira Hollander Pitman, and in 1919, he introduced the first-ever Hawaii Statehood Act. In 1920 he pushed forward a bill to provide homesteads for native Hawaiians, the Hawaiian Homes Commission Act, and it was passed in 1921. He also introduced another bill to make Hawaii a fully-fledged state, and it became the 50th state in 1959.
Kūhiō died on January 7, 1922, and a holiday was created to honor him in 1949. Prince Kuhio Day is now celebrated annually on his birthday, March 26.
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Post by pennmom on Mar 26, 2022 14:40:42 GMT
Make Up Your Own Holiday Day – March 26, 2022~U.S.
There are many holidays throughout the year, but one of the holidays that gets us most excited at National Today is Make Up Your Own Holiday Day, which is celebrated on March 26. Whether you wish to celebrate something profound like Use Only Recycled Paper Day or you want to give in to your randomness by paying homage to Eat Purple Food Day, the possibilities are endless. This day is literally what it stands for — making up a personalized holiday that is close to your heart. Today, it has become easier to establish your own holiday by submitting a suggestion but, in the days of yore, the task required much more stamina. Did you know it took almost a century for Thanksgiving to be declared as a national holiday? Sarah Hale, who started the process, sent numerous letters to get a National Thanks day back in the 1800s, but her efforts did not come to fruition until 1941.
HISTORY OF MAKE UP YOUR OWN HOLIDAY DAY
We hope you are planning your version of Make Up Your Own Holiday Day filled with amusement and excitement. After all, our tiring day-to-day lives, which require us to stay in a constant hustle and bustle, need that extra spice to liven things up. This was the idea that the owners of Wellcat Holidays, Thomas and Ruth Roy, had when they created this holiday.
The Roys are credited with creating about 80 holidays, some of which range from Answer Your Cat’s Question Day (January 22) to More Herbs, Less Salt Day (August 29) — the days come in all shades of eccentric! Having created so many special days, the Roys decided that it would be more fun to let the public decide what they want to celebrate, especially given how different everyone’s likes and dislikes can be. Thus, Make Up Your Own Holiday Day was born on March 26.
The Roys’ holidays have been documented and recognized by the Chase’s Calendar of Events. First published back in 1958 by the Chase brothers, Bill and Harrison Chase, the calendar provides a comprehensive list of official and unofficial holidays, including Easter and the National Nothing Day (January 16). Moreover, you will also be able to find presidential proclamations and anniversaries in the calendar.
Unlike cultural, religious, ethnic, or historical holidays that are recognized by governments around the world, Make Up Your Own Holiday Day is an unofficial day. This means that businesses will remain open. But these hurdles shouldn’t deter you from celebrating the day. All you need is an idea of what you want to celebrate and gather  and friends to throw a party (or just throw a party for yourself!). A cause for celebration was the main point that the Roys were trying to impart through Make Up Your Own Holiday Day.
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Post by pennmom on Mar 26, 2022 14:42:27 GMT
Independence Day of Bangladesh – March 26, 2022~Bangladesh
The Independence Day of Bangladesh is celebrated every year on March 26. It is the national holiday of Bangladesh that commemorates the country’s independence from Pakistan in 1971. On the morning of March 26, 1971, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman declared Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan, which were known at the time as East Pakistan and West Pakistan, respectively. The day is characterized by parades, speeches, fairs, and ceremonial events to commemorate that historic day in 1971.
HISTORY OF INDEPENDENCE DAY OF BANGLADESH
During the Partition of India on August 14, 1947, Pakistan gained independence from Britain and became separated from India. After this, the area now known as Bangladesh was referred to as East Bengal but later called East Pakistan.
However, in 1970, the country was led by President Yahya Khan, from the minority West Pakistan region. After the general elections, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who was from East Pakistan (Bangladesh), won the elections. The government refused to hand over power to Rahman.
This led to a demand for independence by the people of East Pakistan. The East Pakistan government began arresting army personnel who were from East Pakistan, leading to forced disappearances. On the night of March 25, 1971, the Pakistan Army declared “Operation Searchlight,” a military operation that was essentially Bengali genocide, leading to approximately 3,000,000 Bengalis being killed indiscriminately.
Finally, on the morning of March 26, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman declared the independence of East Pakistan from West Pakistan. Unfortunately, the story didn’t end there. For nine months following that day, a liberation war raged between both regions, leading to many people dying. The war, which became known as the “Bangladesh War of Independence,” finally came to an end on December 16, 1971. Pakistan finally surrendered.
In Bangladesh, independence celebrations are characterized by parades, speeches, fairs, and ceremonial events designed to commemorate the country’s liberation. On the morning of the day, a thirty-one gun salute is shot.
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Post by pennmom on Mar 26, 2022 14:44:46 GMT
Epilepsy Awareness / Purple Day – March 26, 2022~World
Celebrated annually on March 26, Epilepsy Awareness Day, or Purple Day, was created to increase the public’s understanding of this brain disorder and to eliminate the fear and stigma surrounding it. With over 3.5 million people diagnosed with epilepsy in the U.S. and over 50 million worldwide, it is likely you know someone living with the day-to-day challenges epilepsy brings. The good news is epilepsy can be easily managed if diagnosed and treated correctly, so awareness and research are important. Join one of the grassroots campaigns to raise awareness in your community today!
WHEN IS EPILEPSY AWARENESS / PURPLE DAY 2022?
Epilepsy Day is observed every year on March 26.
HISTORY OF EPILEPSY AWARENESS / PURPLE DAY
Cassidy Megan from Nova Scotia, Canada, founded Epilepsy Awareness Day with the first event held on March 26, 2008. Motivated by her own diagnosis and struggles of living with epilepsy, she realized the importance of everyone understanding this common neurological disorder. She created an avenue for people to learn, engage, and support the public’s education of epilepsy as well as dispel the myths and fears surrounding it.
Epilepsy is caused by electrical disturbances in the brain resulting in seizures of various types. It can be a scary condition to people who do not understand what is going on, which has led to many unnecessary assumptions and even laws about the disease and the capabilities of those who live with it. It’s the fourth most common neurological disorder after migraines, strokes, and Alzheimer’s. Estimates show that one in 26 Americans will develop epilepsy at some point in their life.
In 2009, the Anita Kaufmann Foundation partnered with the Epilepsy Association of Nova Scotia to launch Purple Day, bringing more collective attention and structured campaigns to the purpose of the day in the U.S. and internationally. Over 100,000 students, 95 workplaces, and 116 politicians participated in Purple Day events that same year.
The Anita Kaufmann Foundation trademarked Purple Day in 2011 and it has continued to expand its reach since.
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Post by pennmom on Mar 26, 2022 14:47:05 GMT
Earth Hour – March 26, 2022~International
All we need is at least an hour to make our environment better, and Earth Hour, which is observed annually on the last Saturday of March, provides that. Earth Hour was created by the World Wide Fund for Nature (W.W.F.) and is held annually, encouraging individuals, communities, and businesses to turn off non-essential electric lights, for one hour, from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m, as a symbol of commitment to the planet.
HISTORY OF EARTH HOUR
Earth Hour was created to actively involve each of us in the fight against climate change, and started as a lights-off event in Sydney, Australia, in 2007. Earth Hour is now a worldwide event, encouraging everyone to turn off non-essential electric lights for an hour between 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on the last Saturday of March.
In 2004, World Wide Fund for Nature (W.W.F.) Australia, met with advertising agency Leo Burnett Sydney to discuss ideas for engaging Australians on the issue of climate change. However, the idea for a large-scale off switch wasn’t coined until 2006, under the title ‘The Big Flick.’ In 2007, with the backing of Fairfax Media along with Sydney’s Lord Mayor Clover Moore, Earth Hour was held on March 31 in Sydney, Australia at 7:30 p.m., local time.
In 2008, Earth Hour 2008 was held internationally on March 29 from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. local time, and had 35 countries around the world participating, and over 400 cities in support. Landmarks around the world turned off their non-essential lighting for Earth Hour, and even Google’s homepage went dark on the day. Participating countries and cities experienced a vast reduction in megawatt-hours and carbon dioxide reduction.
Occasionally, in years when Holy Saturday falls on the last Saturday of March, or other cultural activities are observed, Earth Hour is moved a week earlier than its usual date. Ever since 2008, multiple nations and people have participated, growing this event into one of the world’s largest grassroots movements for the environment.
Millions of people around the world switch off their lights to show they care about the future of our planet, and joining Earth Hour’s switch off reminds us that even small actions can make a big difference.
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Post by pennmom on Mar 26, 2022 14:49:55 GMT
Live Long and Prosper Day – March 26, 2022~U.S.
One of the most well-wishing days, Live Long and Prosper Day is celebrated annually on March 26, which is the birthdate of its inspiration, Leonard Nimoy. Live Long and Prosper, or L.L.A.P., is a Vulcan blessing, which was devised by Leonard Nimoy who played the half-Vulcan Science Officer, Mr. Spock in the “Star Trek” series.
HISTORY OF LIVE LONG AND PROSPER DAY
Live Long and Prosper Day is centered around doing whatever makes you feel healthier and more prosperous. It originated from the “Star Trek” series, which aired in the 1960s, by none other than the First Officer, Captain Spock.
Captain Spock was a half-Vulcan, half-human Science Officer aboard the Starship Enterprise on the television series. He developed the Vulcan salute representing Live Long and Prosper which first debuted in the season two episode “Amok Time.”
The Vulcan Salute is made by raising the hand with the palm facing out, extending the thumb, and parting the fingers between the middle and ring finger. It is based on a gesture used in a priestly blessing in the Jewish faith, and has become the universal sign for “Live long and prosper.” The appropriate reply for the salute would be “peace and long life”, though it is sometimes said first, with “live long and prosper” as the reply.
Leonard Nimoy was born in 1931 and was the brilliant actor that played Captain Spock for nearly five decades, garnering him numerous awards, a place among “TV Guide”’s 50 Best Characters, and millions of fans worldwide. He devised the Vulcan salute, after deciding that Vulcans were a hand-oriented people.
The salute became so popular that in June 2014, its emoji character was added to version seven of the Unicode Standard. The White House also referenced the Vulcan salutation in its statement on Leonard Nimoy’s death, and the following day, NASA astronaut Terry W. Virts posted a photo on his Twitter feed from the International Space Station showing the salutation as they passed over where Nimoy grew up.
Leonard Nimoy passed away in 2015, at the age of 84, and Matt McCarthy is responsible for creating Live Long and Prosper Day.
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Post by pennmom on Mar 27, 2022 18:54:25 GMT
National Joe Day – March 27, 2022~Other
If your name is Joe then you should think of March 27 as your second birthday because it is now known as National Joe Day. And don’t worry, if you’re named Joey, Josephine, Joanna, Jodie, or even Jo Jo, this day is for you too. We may have a history of calling people “Average Joes” but not today, today is your day and you’re anything but average. So, if your name is Joe it’s time to celebrate a day that is dedicated to you, and if you’re not called Joe then pick up your phone and wish all the Joes you know a happy National Joe Day.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL JOE DAY
The origin of this day is unknown, but we know that the name Joe or Jo refers to an everyday name. Deriving from this is phrases like ‘‘Lucky Joe’’, or ‘‘Average Joe.’’ Weirdly, it can also refer to a steaming hot cup of coffee. The phrase ‘‘cup of Joe’’ became popular around 1940. Since then, the phrase stuck and became known as the name for the everyday activity of coffee drinking.
The meaning of the name Joseph is ‘‘God will increase’’. The name also derives from ‘‘Yosef’’ which is a Hebrew name meaning ‘‘He will add.’’ In the Bible, Joseph is an important figure.
In the Old Testament, he was the Son of Jacob and Rachel who was exiled to Egypt and who soon became an advisor to the Pharaoh. In the New Testament, the most well-known Joseph was Mary’s husband Joseph the carpenter, and there was also mention of a Joseph of Arimathea who was a rich disciple.
In the middle ages, Joseph was a very common name used by the Jews and Christians and today the name is widely used and loved in many different cultures. Joe ranked among the top 20 most popular names every year throughout the 20th century and it doesn’t look like it will be slowing down anytime soon.
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Post by pennmom on Mar 27, 2022 19:07:13 GMT
National Spanish Paella Day – March 27, 2022~U.S.
Considered by many to be the national dish of Spain, paella originated, as many traditional dishes do, as “peasant” food — a lunchtime rice dish prepared by workers in the field over an open fire. National Spanish Paella Day, on March 27, celebrates a food filled with tradition. Always cooked in a round, flat bottomed pan with handles, the dish most likely takes its name from the Latin term “patella,” a flat plate on which offerings were made to the gods. The open flame is essential, as it creates the layer of toasted rice at the bottom of the pan that is essential and unique to paella. Delicious!
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Post by pennmom on Mar 27, 2022 19:10:49 GMT
mooky
Pretzel Sunday – March 27, 2022~Germany
Pretzel Sunday, or ‘Bretzelsonndeg,’ is celebrated on the fourth Sunday during Lent in Luxembourg. The actual date changes each year because it depends on Lent. Pretzel Sunday marks the middle of the Lenten season and can fall on any date between March 1 and April 4. Did you know? While some believe that the pretzel’s twist represents two lovers arm-in-arm, some believe that it symbolizes praying hands, and some claim the twisted pretzel’s three holes stand for the three entities of the Holy Trinity: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
HISTORY OF PRETZEL SUNDAY
The fourth Sunday during Lent is traditionally known as Laetare Sunday, referring to the first word of the traditional mass introit of the day. It is also known as Mothering Sunday, Mid-Lent Sunday, Rose Sunday, or Refreshment Sunday. Thanks to a traditional custom in Luxembourg, the day also has a special name, ‘Bretzelsonndeg,’ known in English as Pretzel Sunday.
A pretzel is a type of baked product made from water, flour, and salt, and is commonly shaped into a twisted knot. It may also be garnished with almonds, nuts, or chocolate. It’s a popular pastry in Austria, Germany, Alsace, and the German-speaking parts of Luxembourg and Switzerland.
Some sources claim that the term comes from the Latin word ‘brachium,’ meaning ‘arm,’ which then became the German word ‘bretzel’ or ‘brezel,’ and later evolved into the English word ‘pretzel.’ Some say they were originally called ‘bracellae,’ a Latin term meaning ‘little arms,’ from which German word ‘bretzel’ was later derived. Although there are several unreliable accounts of the origin of pretzel and its name, many believe that this unique baked food has Christian origins and was invented by European monks.
On Pretzel Sunday, a young man presents his romantic interest with pretzels or pretzel-shaped cakes as a sign of his affection. If the young lady wants to reciprocate the man’s feelings, she gives him a decorated chocolate egg on Easter Sunday in return. Otherwise, the girl returns a basket to the pretzel-giver as a sign of rejection. This explains the origin of the Luxembourgish expression, “de Kuerf kréien” (“to be given the basket”), meaning to be rejected. In leap years, the tradition is reversed: women present men with pretzels or cakes on Pretzel Sunday, and men reciprocate with eggs on Easter Sunday.
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Post by pennmom on Mar 27, 2022 19:13:23 GMT
Mothering Sunday in the U.K. – March 27, 2022~U.K.
Mothering Sunday in the U.K. is on March 27, and we are revved up to celebrate the best people in the world — mothers! Mothering Sunday has been celebrated as far back as the 16th century as a day of worship during Lent, the Christian fasting period. Incorporating the day as Mother’s Day is an addition to a more recent century, but we jump at every chance to celebrate our mothers.
HISTORY OF MOTHERING SUNDAY IN THE U.K.
Mothering Sunday was originally a day celebrating mother churches in the U.K., Ireland, and several other places. Its genesis can be traced to the middle ages, and it is usually held every year on the fourth Sunday of Lent, which is the period that Christians engage in their yearly fast. Set in the middle of the fasting period, Christians from every corner of the country on that Sunday would make a journey to their mother churches; that is, the church where they had received the sacrament of baptism, the main church or cathedral of the area, to worship. The pilgrimage became known as ‘going-a-mothering.’
The tradition continued and gained popularity in the 16th century in the U.K, becoming a holiday event. Domestic servants and apprentices all over the country who had left their families for a long period of time would be given a day off to make a pilgrimage to their mother churches and visit their loved ones, making Mothering Sunday a much-anticipated event.
Mothering Sunday in the U.K. is tied to several Christian religious occurrences and beliefs. It is a day to honor the Virgin Mary, Mother of Jesus, and also to remember the story of Jesus in the bible where he fed 5,000 and granted them a break from fasting. But over time, the event began to become less popular as the fabrics of society underwent different changes.
In 1908, Anna Jarvis began efforts to establish Mother’s Day in the U.S. as a day to celebrate mothers after her mother’s death. This sparked the drive by Constance Penswick Smith who created the Mothering Sunday Movement in a bid to rekindle their heritage. Mothering Sunday and Mother’s Day are now used interchangeably in recent times, but Mothering Sunday still holds in the U.K. during the period of Lent.
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pennmom
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Post by pennmom on Mar 27, 2022 19:18:58 GMT
British Summer Time Begins – March 27, 2022~U.K.
‘Spring forward, fall back.’ British Summer Time (BST) occurs on the last Sunday of March and represents the phenomenon when the clocks go forward in spring by one hour and, in autumn, on the last Sunday of October, reverts to Greenwich Mean Time. Can you believe that the proposal for BST was made in Britain in the early 20th century by a man who was angry at the waste of daylight during summer mornings? The practice is done so that there’s more daylight in the evening and less in the morning.
HISTORY OF BRITISH SUMMER TIME BEGINS
It is commonly thought that the idea of daylight saving time was proposed by Benjamin Franklin in 1784 when, in an essay titled ‘An Economical Project’, he suggested Parisians change their sleeping schedule to save money on lamps and candles. Franklin merely concluded that rising with the sun would save the citizens of Paris a great deal of money because the benefits of daylight are more thrifty than artificial light.
George Hudson, an entomologist from New Zealand, was the modern proponent of daylight saving time. In 1895, he suggested a two-hour time shift so that he can have more daylight in the evening to go bug hunting after work hours.
12 years later, William Willet made a serious proposal to the British parliament for daylight saving time. In his pamphlet, titled ‘The Waste of Daylight’, he argued for the clocks to be put forward by 80 minutes, which would result in longer daylight hours for recreation, improving health, and saving the country money in lighting costs. The idea got the support of Winston Churchill and Arthur Conan Doyle but was rejected by the British government. Willet continued arguing for the concept until his death in 1915.
It was not until World War I that Germans started looking for ways to save energy and remembered Willet’s idea to move clocks forward to have more daylight during working hours. Thus Germany adopted the concept and Britain followed suit a few weeks later.
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Post by pennmom on Mar 27, 2022 19:20:44 GMT
Quentin Tarantino's Birthday’s birthday – March 27, 2022~Other
Today is March 27, which means Quentin Tarantino is turning 57!
Tarantino has been described by film historian Peter Bogdanovich as the “single most influential director of his generation”; hard to debate, when surveying the director’s trophy cabinet. To date QT has won two Academy awards, two Golden Globes, two BAFTA awards, and a Palme d’Or award.
Tarantino’s style blends grindhouse, pop culture, blaxploitation, spaghetti western, and wuxia influences. While the end result has been criticized for glorifying violence, trivializing the past, and leaning on excessive profanity, none argue its originality. In other words, you know you’re watching a Tarantino film in the first 5 minutes, which cannot be said of more commercial Hollywood directors like James Cameron and Christopher Nolan.
The archetypal film buff, Quentin worked during his 20s at a video store in Manhattan Beach, CA, and would regularly wow customers with his encyclopedic knowledge of film history. Attentive viewers will be rewarded by frequent references to cult classics, and a bottomless basket of cinematic easter eggs.
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Post by pennmom on Mar 27, 2022 19:25:01 GMT
World Theatre Day – March 27, 2022~World
World Theatre Day is celebrated every year on March 27. Designated by the International Theatre Institute (ITI) in 1961, this day celebrates the essence, beauty, and importance of theatre arts, their significant role in entertainment, and the symbolic impact that theatre has on life. This day also serves to inform governments, politicians, institutions, and stakeholders around the world who have not yet realized the value of theatre to the people and its potential for economic growth.
HISTORY OF WORLD THEATRE DAY
Since ancient Greece, theatre has been a popular form of art and entertainment — thrilling its audiences and leaving them in awe. Not only does it entertain and educate, but theatre also combines various art forms to give its live audience a real stage experience, which they can’t find anywhere else.
World Theatre Day is celebrated annually on March 27, promoted by the ITI through its centers, and supported by theatre communities all over the world. The day was initiated by ITI, following President Arvi Kivimaa’s June 1961 proposal at the ninth World Congress of the ITI in Vienna — on behalf of the ITI’s Finnish Centre — for a World Theatre Day to be instituted. The proposal was supported by the Scandinavian centers of the ITI and publicized with enthusiasm.
The next year — on March 27, 1962, World Theatre Day was celebrated by ITI centers, ITI Cooperating Members, theatre professionals, and theatre organizations. Today, the day is celebrated in the 90+ ITI centers throughout the world, with theatre universities, academies, schools, and theatre lovers all around the globe joining in the day’s observance.
Different events are organized to mark World Theatre Day every year. A prominent feature of these annual events is the World Theatre Day International Message, presented by a famous art figure, reflecting on the history of theatre and a culture of peace in today’s world. The first World Theatre Day International Message was written by French poet and playwright Jean Cocteau in 1962. In 2021, the Message of the World Theatre Day was authored by Helen Mirren, a multi-award-winning British actress reputed for winning the Academy Award in 2007 for her performance in “The Queen.”
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Post by pennmom on Mar 27, 2022 19:26:56 GMT
National Cleaning Week – March 27-27, 2022~U.S.
National Cleaning Week begins each year on the fourth Sunday in March. It is a week-long lineup of activities targeted at encouraging everyone to clean their homes, closets, cars, storage lockers, and offices. Also, this week emphasizes the value and importance of cleaning employees, employers, and other stakeholders in the cleaning industry. Did you know? A 2010 study conducted at the University of California, Los Angeles, observed that those who believed their home was cluttered had higher levels of the stress hormone, cortisol.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL CLEANING WEEK
National Cleaning Week celebrates the importance, value, and positive impact that cleaning has on public health, the environment, and the economy. This week also offers the perfect opportunity to raise public awareness for the value of clean spaces, appreciate front-line cleaning professionals, promote cleaning organizations, and advocate for the cleaning industry.
The International Sanitary Supply Association (ISSA), the worldwide cleaning industry association, uses National Cleaning Week to promote the importance of cleanliness, provide education and training, and raise the profile of the cleaning industry. ISSA also sees the week as a channel to publicize numerous means to engage and explore educational opportunities, support charitable causes for the benefit of the cleaning industry, and more.
Maintaining a clean environment helps to lower the spread of viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens that cause diseases and trigger allergic reactions. It also prevents the growth of mold in our living spaces. Furthermore, a clean space is closely associated with improved moods, decreased stress levels, and enhanced productivity.
Following an experiment in 2013, the Association for Psychological Science concluded that students were more likely to make healthier choices and participate in philanthropic causes after they were exposed to a clean room. National Cleaning Week provides the opportunity to enjoy these psychological benefits and much more. It is also a week to discard winter essentials, declutter, and tidy up our homes to welcome a fresh start with spring.
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for this often-overlooked candy. Whether you like your sweets soft, smooth, crunchy, fluffy, or a combination of all those, the iconic nougat has got your back, fam. The classic dessert is made with whipped egg whites, sweet honey, and roasted nuts. This version of the white nougat is the most common one out there. Other forms also include brown, black, and beige — each varying due to cultural differences. This sweet treat has an interesting history. You may have eaten a chocolate bar that is filled with nougat a hundred times, but did you know that the original purpose of putting nougat inside a chocolate bar was to create an illusionary ice-cream effect? Now that’s neat and sweet! 
and friends to throw a party (or just throw a party for yourself!). A cause for celebration was the main point that the Roys were trying to impart through Make Up Your Own Holiday Day.