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Post by pennmom on Dec 2, 2021 20:06:27 GMT
International Day for the Abolition of Slavery – December 2, 2021~International
International Day for the Abolition of Slavery happens annually on December 2. It is about raising awareness and reinforcing global efforts in combatting the scourge of modern slavery. Governments, organizations, and individuals are entreated to take this day specifically as an opportunity to denounce the atrocities of slavery in its modern form that still exist in the world. Fun fact: The aim of International Day for the Abolition of Slavery is different from that of International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition, the latter of which is a day to reflect on the atrocities committed during the Transatlantic Slave Trade Era.
HISTORY OF INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR THE ABOLITION OF SLAVERY The International Day for the Abolition of Slavery focuses on eradicating modern forms of slavery like trafficking, sexual exploitation, child labor, forced marriage, and forced recruitment of children into armed conflict. The Day is observed on December 2, which marks the same date that the U.N. Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others was adopted by its member states on December 2, 1949, and it is expected to be observed by governments, organizations, and people all around the world as a day specifically set aside to rebuke all forms of modern-day slavery that still exist in the world today.
The International Labour Organisation puts the number of victims of modern slavery at 40 million worldwide. And although modern slavery is not defined by any binding law, the word encompasses practices such as forced labor, debt bondage, forced marriage, human trafficking, and every other situation of exploitation under which a victim is trapped because of threats of violence, coercion, deception, or abuse of power.
Although, since 1995, the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery has shone the spotlight on atrocities of modern slavery and tried to inspire commitment to better humanity, December 2 wasn’t recognized as the International Day for the Abolition of Slavery until exactly a decade after a U.N. Working Group on Slavery submitted a report that tendered the date for consideration as the World Day for the Abolition of Slavery in 1985.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 2, 2021 20:08:14 GMT
National Fritters Day – December 2, 2021~World
Fire up your fryers for National Fritters Day on December 2. Fritters are easy to cook, and they exist in different forms in cuisines all across the world. They can be sweet or savory. They can be an appetizer, dessert, or entrée. The first historical record of the fritter dates back to 1665, but we guess they have existed much longer than that.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL FRITTERS DAY The first recorded mention of the fritter was back in 1665. Samuel Pepys, a British Member of Parliament during the Restoration period in England, wrote in one of his diary entries that he would be enjoying some fritters before Lent. However, it is believed that fritters were first consumed by the ancient Romans, who later introduced them to Europe.
Fritters are used in many cuisines. The French beignets, Italian “bignè”, and Greek “loukoumades” are examples of fritter varieties specific to different countries. The custom of coating food in batter and frying it was introduced to Japan by the Portuguese and Spanish in the late 16th century. From this, tempura – deep-fried shellfish, fish, and vegetables – was incorporated into traditional Japanese cuisine. Similarly, the Indian pakora is a savory deep-fried cake containing meat or vegetables such as cauliflower and eggplant. Fritto misto is an Italian fritter-like dish of several types of food, usually seafood, dipped in batter and fried in olive oil. Another specialty is the flower fritter, which is basically deep-fried edible flowers like acacia, elderflower, and squash blossoms.
Fritters are easy and cost-effective to make so it comes as no surprise that there is a version in every culture. You can find fritters at restaurants, county fairs, and even on the street. The most famous fritters you can find in the U.S. are corn fritters. In the South, traditional corn fritters are made of melted butter, milk, flour, egg, and corn kernels. They can be baked, shallow fried, and deep-fried, and are served with cream, honey, fruit, or jam. You can add virtually any fruit or vegetable in these delicious fritters, making them a very versatile dish.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 2, 2021 20:10:14 GMT
Lao National Day – December 2, 2021~Laos
Lao National Day on December 2 is an annual holiday in the Southeast Asian country of Laos. The holiday marks the end of the monarchy’s rule and the establishment of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic in 1975.
HISTORY OF LAO NATIONAL DAY Lao National Day is usually observed as a public holiday and if it falls on a weekend, a public holiday will be declared on the following Monday.
Laos was a French protectorate for most of the 20th century and, following the end of World War II, resistance to French control grew, leading to the founding of the Pathet Lao resistance organization by the Indochinese Communist Party. The armed struggle that resulted is what is known as the First Indochina War, and it led to Laos gaining independence as a constitutional monarchy under King Sisavang Phoulivong in October 1953.
Laos’ path to becoming a communist republic started when, in 1975, the Pathet Lao, with the support of North Vietnam and the Soviet Union, overthrew the royalist Lao government and forced King Savang Vatthana to abdicate.
On the same day, the Pathet Lao government under Kaysone Phomvihane renamed the country the Lao People’s Democratic Republic.
Although the country is seen as politically stable, it is relatively poor compared to other neighboring countries like Thailand, Cambodia, and India. The landlocked country is also one of the world’s few remaining communist states and despite economic reforms after several wars, the country remains poor and heavily dependent on foreign aid.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 2, 2021 20:11:59 GMT
Business of Popping Corn Day – December 2, 2021~U.S.
Business of Popping Corn Day is an annual holiday celebrated on December 2 to commemorate the invention of the first large-scale commercial oil popcorn popper by Charles Cretors in 1885. Did you know Cretors almost gave up on the journey that kick-started his career, first as a manufacturer of biscuits, then as a mechanist and painter, all of which were critical in helping him invent the popcorn popper?
HISTORY OF BUSINESS OF POPPING CORN DAY Business of Popping Corn Day celebrates Charles Cretors and his invention — the popcorn machine.
His was the first large-scale commercial oil popcorn popper and was invented in 1885, first as a peanut popper. This was due to Charles’ discontentment with all the popular peanut poppers available at the time, as confirmed by his great-grandson who said, “My great-grandfather had a candy store in Decatur, Illinois. He bought a peanut roaster that he didn’t like and thought he could do a better job. So he sold everything and moved to Chicago to build a better peanut roaster, which he proceeded to do. He had a City of Chicago peddlers license dated 1885, and that’s how we date the start of the company.”
In the 19th century, most people made popcorn by holding long-handled wire boxes filled with kernels over fires that, although effective for home consumption, were inadequate for commercial success. It was Cretors’ machines, invented through his C. Cretors & Company in 1885, that soon made it practical for people to get into the business of popping corn.
Cretors powered his popcorn machine with a steam engine, allowing for automation. The steam was created by a fire under a broiler and powered the small engine, which, in turn, moved the gears, shaft, and an agitator, stirring the kernels. The fresh popcorn was caught in a storage bin. Additionally, steam was diverted to a whistle, which caught the attention of customers.
He applied for a patent for his invention on August 10, 1891, and it was granted on October 10, 1893. The same year, he took his invention to the World’s Columbian Exposition where the wider public could sample his machine’s popcorn for the first time.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 2, 2021 20:14:29 GMT
Asom Divas – December 2, 2021~India
Asom Divas on December 2 is a regional public holiday in the Indian state of Assam that takes place annually. It commemorates the arrival of the founder and first King of the Ahom kingdom in the territory of ancient Assam, which is one of the country’s largest states with over 30 million people today. Did you know that Asom Divas is also known by several other names, including Asom Day, Sukapha Divas, and some others? Now you know!
HISTORY OF ASOM DIVAS Asom Divas, also known as Asom Day or Sukapha Divas, celebrates the legacy of the first king of the Ahom kingdom in Assam and commemorates his arrival in the region in the early 13th century.
Chaolung Sukapha, who was a prince from the Tai state of Mong Mao, close to present-day Ruili in Yunnan, China, was forced to migrate after the birth of a cousin blocked his path to his father’s throne. And, after 13 years on the journey and crossing the Patkai mountains, he arrived in Namrup, in the southeast of the Indian state of Assam in 1228, and founded the Ahom kingdom.
Sukapha’s reign as the king of Ahom kingdom, who ruled medieval Assam for six hundred years, and famously resisted other great powers, such as the Mughals, is considered to be a glorious chapter in the history of Assam.
He is widely referred to as the architect of ‘Bor Asom’ or ‘greater Assam’ because of the amicable relationship he developed with the tribal communities living in Assam at the time of his arrival. He was revered for being a strong, courageous, and fearless leader who played a vital role in unifying the various indigenous ethnic groups of Assam.
The day dedicated to honoring his legacy, Asom Divas, highlights Assam’s rich culture! The celebration begins with beautiful folk music and several indigenous dances like Bagurumba, Bihu dance, and Bhortal dance performed by local artists. An award ceremony follows, as well as a grand procession organized by the authorities.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 3, 2021 14:36:59 GMT
Make a Gift Day – December 3, 2021~U.S.
We love gifts that have a personal touch, and that’s why we love Make a Gift Day so much! Celebrated on December 3 each year, this unofficial holiday encourages people to create gifts for their loved ones, instead of relying on ready-made goods. This distinctive touch makes the gift all the more exclusive and adds more significance to the entire gift-giving process.
HISTORY OF MAKE A GIFT DAY Giving and receiving gifts is a tradition as old as time, or so it seems. Evidence shows even cavemen gave gifts like teeth or stones — to potential mates, to people who have done something good for the tribe, or to other loved ones.
Biologists believe the gifting practice is an evolutionary act to establish dominance and show affection. Our nearest relative in the animal kingdom, chimpanzees, are a great example of this. Males give females gifts of food to attract them.
Several older cultures had their gift-giving ceremonies special to the era and traditions. Native American cultures practiced a gift-giving feast called ‘potlatch’ for thousands of years. Our tradition of gifting on birthdays likely stems from the Ancient Egyptians, who honored their pharaohs with gifts like jewelry and various crops on their ‘birthdays’ (the pharaohs’ coronation day, which was more important than their day of birth). Egyptians took gift-giving one step further: they buried their dead with gifts to guide them peacefully into the afterlife. The Ancient Greeks, too, gave us a tradition: blowing out candles. They believed evil spirits would come to haunt a loved one on their birthday, so they lighted candles and blew them out, making a wish to the gods to protect the birthday girl or boy.
The Middle Ages saw almost everyone exchange gifts, with those of a romantic nature increasing in frequency. Another unusual gift during that age was the dowry given by a man to his new bride’s father, in exchange for his daughter’s hand in marriage.
By the 19th century, cheaper manufacturing costs meant mass-produced goods were easily available and affordable, as a result, gift-giving increased all over. Gift-giving has become commonplace in today’s world, with gifts being a popular means of showing love, affection, and respect across cultures.
We are still looking into the history, origin, and founder(s) of this day, but we believe it is set in December to take advantage of the holiday season when more gifts are given than at any other time of the year.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 3, 2021 14:38:49 GMT
National Green Bean Casserole Day – December 3, 2021~U.S.
National Green Bean Casserole Day on December 3 celebrates the dish and its interesting origins. The holidays are going to be knocking on our doors soon, and there’s no harm in getting our preparations underway from today onwards. Green bean casserole is enjoyed by many all over America for its few ingredients and simplistic recipe that does not require too much time and effort. Two of the main ingredients include cream of mushroom soup and, of course, green beans. The two are either mixed together or layered on top of each other. The smooth and creamy texture is complemented with the extra crunchiness of french fried onions sprinkled over the top and voila, you have a filling and nutritious dish. The recipe was such a gamechanger on the American food scene that its inventor, Dorcas Lillian Bates Reilly, features in the Hall of Fame alongside the likes of Thomas Edison and Muhammad Ali.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE DAY National Green Bean Casserole Day was created as a holiday by Jace Shoemaker-Galloway. She is credited with covering many unique and wacky holidays in her writing career that spans from Yahoo, to Planet Save, to Energy Boom and many more. Having researched all such holidays, Shoemaker-Galloway started realizing the fun and merriment that unique holidays tend to bring. Out of the many holiday ventures the writer brought to life, one of the most prominent and celebrated was National Green Bean Casserole Day. This day pays homage to the classic holiday dish that is enjoyed by around 20 million Americans worldwide. Reports state that around 50% of all green bean casserole recipes are made between the period of November to January, which is when the holidays are in full swing.
So, how did this dish come into being? It was created back in 1955 in the Home Economics Department of Campbell Soup Company. At the time, Dorcas Reilly, the main inventor of the dish, was working as a manager and recipe creator for the company. The goal was to create something using ingredients that would be readily available in an average American kitchen. Reilly and her team selected five ingredients and created something in 10 minutes. The world was still reeling from the effects of WW2, and easy-to-make dishes were all the rage. Initially, the dish was named the ‘Green Bean Bake’. While the recipe was a great way to satisfy those hunger pangs in a few minutes, it did not take off until the 1960s when the Campbell Soup Company started putting the recipe on their soup cans. From then on, green bean casserole became a staple in Thanksgiving spreads. Reilly also became known as the “grandmother of the green bean casserole.”
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Post by pennmom on Dec 3, 2021 14:41:46 GMT
National Roof Over Your Head Day – December 3, 2021~U.S.
Each year on December 3, the U.S. celebrates a very special day — National Roof Over Your Head Day. Following closely after Thanksgiving (another day to be thankful), National Roof Over Your Head Day asks us to give thanks for what we have, beginning with the roof over our heads, particularly because many other people lack this basic necessity. This day is a lovely reminder to be content with our lot and avoid worrying about things we do not yet have.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL ROOF OVER YOUR HEAD DAY Whereas we are still tracing the origins of this day, the origin of homelessness in America, on the other hand, is well-documented.
In colonial America, people without a roof over their heads were labeled vagrants (around the 1600s) and ‘sturdy beggars’ (in the mid-18th century). Most colonial towns — like Baltimore and Philadelphia — had a significant number of such people. This situation was likely caused by King Philip’s War (also called the First Indian War) against the colonial people in 1676, which drove many people out of their homes, forcing them to seek shelter elsewhere. Major cities were not as populated; only about 7% of Americans lived in these places.
The industrial revolution changed this, bringing a steady stream of workers to urban centers. By the 1850s, major cities had reported a larger number of vagrants than ever before, and the only shelter system for them was the lodging rooms located inside police stations.
Over the years, the people seeking shelter grew to include different races, nationalities, and age groups, too. The solutions for such a situation have also changed over the years: In the early 20th century, people believed jobs were the answer; Now, creating affordable housing is considered the remedy.
Even today, there are as many as 100 million people without a roof over their heads all around the U.S., and this is likely the reason this Day was created. Many states have come up with creative solutions to alleviate this problem and continue to devise and roll out strategies to enable shelter for every person in America.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 3, 2021 14:43:25 GMT
National Bartender Day – December 3, 2021~U.S.
moni Bartenders have a rich history: They have been around since ancient times across cultures. And with over half a million bartenders in the U.S., National Bartender Day is a big holiday to celebrate. Whether you go out to a bar or restaurant in your neighborhood, make a trek to a new spot in town, or share a drink with your favorite bar tending friend, December 3 is the day to show your appreciation for all the mixologists out there.
Bartender Appreciation Day – December 3, 2021~U.S.
The first Friday of December, which is December 3 this year, is Bartender Appreciation Day, and we can’t wait to share how much we love these servers! These bartenders (also called barkeepers, mixologists, alcohol servers, bar chefs) keep us coming back for more, serve us drinks and food, keep us company, and even share a story or two. We are raising a toast to the people who stay up tending the bar at our favorite restaurants, bars, and pubs.
HISTORY OF BARTENDER APPRECIATION DAY This profession goes back to ancient times when the dinosaurs roamed the earth. Just kidding! But they did exist in ancient Greece and Rome, working in public drinking houses, which doubled as social gathering places. These guys worked through the centuries, commonly called ‘innkeepers’ in the 15th century (in Europe). Bartenders were usually alehouse owners or innkeepers (male or female) and would produce their own liquor. Since alcohol was frowned upon during the early ages, the profession had an unfavorable reputation.
Over the years, taverns and the like established themselves as important places for writers and professionals to conduct their business, and bartenders gained higher social statuses. As colonization increased, bartenders began appearing in the New World.
The 19th century brought many changes to the bartending scene in America. This became a respectable profession across the country and was even one of the highest-paying. Reportedly, Jerry Thomas, a famous bartender during those times, earned more than the then Vice President of the U.S.
The 20th century saw prohibition outlaw sale, consumption, production, and transportation of alcohol in the U.S., and the nation’s famous bars were replaced by illegal speakeasies. Bartenders found other professions or migrated to big cities like London and Paris. American drinkers that missed their old haunts visited these places with such frequency that ‘American bars’ came up across these cities. Hotels like the Savoy in London and the Ritz in Paris became hotspots for cocktails; their bars served up delicious new concoctions all the time. Back in the American speakeasies, new drinks and cocktails were being invented. The gin and tonic was one such invention that came about during the Prohibition Era.
Once prohibition was overturned, bars and cocktail lounges came up all over the U.S. Bartending schools opened up, and more people began choosing bartending as a career.
Sailor Jerry Rum founded Bartender Appreciation Day to honor all the people in this profession. They specifically chose early December as Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve are some of the busiest times for bartenders, and so are Fridays. Sailor Jerry has also been petitioning to have this day declared as a paid leave for bartenders. The brand also partners with other organizations to set up special events, competitions and holds voting competitions to find the nation’s best bartender. They have even previously given out free pizza, clothing, and taxi rides home for bartenders.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 3, 2021 14:45:29 GMT
Let’s Hug Day – December 3, 2021~U.S.
Let’s Hug Day on December 3 celebrates the warmth and comfort of a hug. Hugs are very versatile. Many of us hug when we wish to share our happiness with and friends. At the same time, hugs are a staple when we are feeling low and need someone to just hold and console us. Hugs are also the perfect reconciliatory gesture when you want to make up with someone after a fight. Scientifically, hugs are known to release good hormones that can help lower your blood pressure and stress levels.
HISTORY OF LET’S HUG DAY There are no clear sources to indicate the origins of Let’s Hug Day, but some suggest Kevin Zaborney was the mastermind behind the day. This is still questionable as Zaborney called the day the National Hugging Day, which falls on January 31. Zaborney’s holiday is recorded in the famous Chase’s Calendar of Events that also hosts a number of other unique holidays. The idea behind having a National Hugging Day (and we assume the same for Let’s Hug Day too) was to encourage people to show affection to each other. Hugging raises people’s spirits by allowing them to feel another person’s warmth and sincerity. Zaborney did advise to first ask people if they were okay with hugging as nobody likes nonconsensual affection, even if it comes in the form of hugs.
The word ‘hug’ is thought to come from the Old Norse word ‘hugga’, which means “to comfort”. Other scholars speculate that the word may have originated from the German word ‘hegen’ that roughly translates to ‘cherish’ or ‘foster’. In the English language, ‘hug’ is said to have been used somewhere in the 16th century. While the etymology and history of the word may differ, the emotion behind it has more or less stayed the same since the inception of the act. Babies, who know nothing about the outside world, reach out to their mothers/fathers for a dose of love and comfort. In fact, if babies do not receive regular cuddles and hugs from their parents, their relationship tends to take a beating. Therefore, having daily hugs is a necessary way to maintain relationships. Moreover, hugs also release the happy hormone called oxytocin, reducing cortisol, which is the stress hormone. Hugs can also help regulate blood pressure, heartbeats, depression, anxiety, and frustration.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 3, 2021 14:48:12 GMT
International Day of Persons with Disabilities – December 3, 2021~International
International Day of Persons with Disabilities on December 3 is a day to help everyone become more compassionate and understanding of the challenges faced by people with disabilities. The day doesn’t discriminate between mental and physical disabilities, and the spirit of the day is to ensure that all people in the world have equal opportunities for work, play, health, and success. People with disabilities can be and very often are contributing and valued members of society, and today is all about appreciating them.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 3, 2021 14:51:08 GMT
Ghana Farmer’s Day – December 3, 2021~Ghana
The official Ghana Farmer’s Day on the first Friday in December, December 3 this year, celebrates the country’s farmers and fishermen. The agricultural industry contributes at least 20% to 30% of revenue to the country’s socio-economic fronts. The import and export business generates an income for many households, and allows the economic industry to thrive. However, issues, such as climate change, have had a negative impact on the industry. The agricultural industry faced similar challenges during the early 1980s but fought hard to grow it, which led to the observance of Ghana Farmer’s Day. It’s a day to recognize and award the hard work of farmers and fishermen.
HISTORY OF GHANA FARMER’S DAY The first Ghana Farmer’s Day was instituted in 1985. It was created by the Provisional National Defense Council, which, at the time, made up the whole of Ghana’s administration. The day came as a result of the 30% growth of the farming industry the year before. The country suffered from severe droughts in the early 1980s, which impacted crop yields. Ghana, which was largely dependent on the farmers to feed the nation, faced starvation and malnutrition. On the economic front, the country’s G.D.P. was also suffering immensely. However, the drought ended in 1984 and the country slowly recovered, recording an impressive 30% growth in the industry. The fisheries also flourished at the time. In order to recognize the plight and hard work of all Ghanian farmers and fishermen, the politicians decided to hold a Ghana Farmer’s Day every first Friday of December. During the election years, the day is moved to the first Friday of November.
The first Ghana Farmer’s Day was held in Osino, which is located in the Eastern region of Ghana. Osino was chosen as the prime location because it had been affected by the droughts the most severely. Subsequently, the following years have seen celebrations held in other locations that were also negatively impacted. Several activities take place throughout the day, and one of the most notable is the award ceremony that recognizes the best farmers and fishermen. Judges note and follow all the registered participants’ progress throughout the year. The judging categories include technological use, husbandry, and ecological awareness. In the first year, the winning farmer was awarded a radio, Wellington boots, and machetes. As the years passed, the awards grew in value and one of the most expensive awards was a three-bedroom house.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 3, 2021 14:53:07 GMT
Faux Fur Friday – December 3, 2021~U.S.
Faux Fur Friday, a special celebration for lovers of fuzzy clothes and animals, is celebrated on the first Friday in December, falling on December 3 this year. And it is a celebration of all things furry and fake. So grab your coats, hats, shoes, or sweaters, and party with us!
HISTORY OF FAUX FUR FRIDAY The human fascination with wearing fur likely stemmed from a very real need to keep warm back in the days when electricity was not even an idea. As the world slowly evolved, fur (animal skins, really) was only worn by the elite, also known as rulers, nobility, and so on. Ancient Egyptian royalty and high priests wore coats made of leopard skins, and later, English kings issued laws that ensured only the noble elite were able to wear costly furs like fox and ermine. These obstacles made fur more desirable to people of all classes and turned it into a status symbol. Fur coats worn by major public figures made fur the ultimate symbol of wealth and power.
And then came fake fur. The earliest uses were suggested only for children way back in the 1800s, but it was also thought that fake fur was never going to be a substitute for the real thing. Gradually, by the 1900s, fake fur — or imitation/simulated fur — began to appear. This was initially made of the wool of unborn or newborn lambs and was mixed with synthetic fibers soon after. The craze for faux fur hit the roof around the mid-1900s, and by the 1950s, such garments were increasingly affordable and popular too. At the time, the news was full of reports of companies trying to outdo each other while creating the most realistic and luxurious fake fur. They would patent their inventions and sell faux skins under names like Cloud No. 9, Borgana, Glenara, and Dynasty. The New York Times even reported that the sales of fake fur rose to astronomical heights, going from several million dollars in 1954 to around $80,000,000 in 1957.
An anti-fur movement in the 1970s gave the fake fur industry a big boost, reaching new heights when big-name supermodels Naomi Campbell and Cindy Crawford were picked for a PETA ad campaign against the sale of real fur.
While the fashion industry stayed true to fur, faux fur has gained the support of labels like Vogue Paris and Gucci. Multiple brands have also picked up the faux fur trend, and they market it to customers all across the price range.
Recent years have seen multiple companies avoiding natural fur, countries banning fur production, and various designers exploring faux fur production on a grand scale.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 3, 2021 14:55:35 GMT
International Sweater Vestival – December 3, 2021~International
The International Sweater Vestival Day is observed annually on the second Friday after Thanksgiving, which falls on December 3 this year. Whether you love or are completely indifferent to sweater vests, you cannot deny that the fashion staple is making a fashionable comeback. And this fashion-forward holiday encourages people all over the world to wear a sweater vest and ask others to do the same. This is why we love the thought of celebrating International Sweater Vestival Day. The whole point behind this idea? To connect with others, as there is no other garment that is worn by such diverse groups of people — from hipsters to older people and to those just looking to stay warm.
HISTORY OF INTERNATIONAL SWEATER VESTIVAL This diverse piece of clothing was designed with functionality in mind, even as people thought it was a mistake. It was made for people indulging in sports, to help them sweat, and thus, help them lose weight. Julia Felsenthal, then a staff writer at “Slate Magazine,” wrote a history piece about the sweater vest, tracing this garment back to 1882 when rowers first wore these with one big difference — they were long-sleeved. The piece does not indicate when the sleeves were chopped off to mimic the now-popular style, but it is believed that football players from Michigan abandoned the sleeves to breathe better while playing, and it has been a staple ever since.
This humble garment then became a common sight by the 1900s; men everywhere wore it with pride. Soon enough, the sweater vest crossed the gender barrier too. Stars adopted this garment with excitement, namely the lead character of Clueless, Cher Horowitz, and later Eleanor Roosevelt, who wore the sweater vest with her tweeds in 1934, creating another fashion statement. Ace designers Dior, Givenchy, and Prada also put this garment on runways, cementing its place in popular imagination.
The World Wars brought other matters to the public eye, and the sweater vest lost its place for a little while. By the 1970s, the sweater vest was making inroads into fashion again, although in places like the U.K.
The sweater vest has been used by sports fans (especially those that enjoy golf) and American football team coaches for a long time. It has remained a supplementary fashion icon ever since, except in the 21st century, when the Spring/Summer 2017 runway presentation saw major designers such as Raf Simons and Prada play with the sweater vest again. By 2020, the sweater vest was exploding all over the internet, with celebrities paying tribute to this garment and fashion houses swearing it is the next best thing.
The facts about who created this day are a little murky. The only mention we could find is in a “Boston Globe” article, by reporter Carolyn Johnson. Some people believe Johnson to be the one who coined the term ‘Sweater Vestival, ‘ others think she might have had a partner, but no one can say for sure. Did you know Knoxville, Tennessee, has an unrelated version of this day which, weirdly enough, is held annually in May? Whatever its origins, this day sees international celebrations in almost 65 countries around the globe, including Boston, New York, London, and Auckland.
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pennmom
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[TI0] ALWAYS BE YOURSELF, UNLESS YOU CAN BE A UNICORN. THEN ALWAYS BE A UNICORN!
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Post by pennmom on Dec 4, 2021 16:07:11 GMT
National Sock Day – December 4, 2021~U.S.
National Sock Day, celebrated on December 4, is a day to celebrate those rarest of socks that managed to stick together and maybe to mourn those socks that lost their significant others in the wash over the years. Whether you’re a fan of knee-high, crew, ankle, or low-cut socks, or even the ones sporting tiny holes, the history and significance of National Sock Day will make you love your socks even more!
HISTORY OF NATIONAL SOCK DAY Whether you realize it or not, socks are a common necessity for all people. Everyone, from babies to grandpas, uses socks daily. Before the 2nd century A.D., people used dried animal skins, or cloth wrappings to protect their feet in the cold or hot environment while wearing any footwear. Now, you can find socks in various colors and types made from different materials including silk, cotton, wool, and polyester. Today, with so many brands out there, socks have evolved to a space where they symbolize art and fashion.
On December 4, a clothing company called Pair of Thieves created National Sock Day. According to the company’s website, they started this day “to warm our toes with the commemoration of two toe-tapping historical events that happened on this day.” In 2016, it was officially declared that National Sock Day would be celebrated annually on December 4.
The first historical event they are referring to is the closing of the first revival of the Broadway musical “On Your Toes”, on December 4, 1954. This musical was special because it incorporated ballet. The second “toe-tapping” event that the holiday commemorates is the final concert of the country music mother-daughter singing duo, The Judds, in 1991.
The company takes National Sock Day to another level by donating a pair of socks for every hashtag of #nationalsockday that is posted on the day. They also give away socks year-round as part of their give-back program — for every pair of socks purchased, they donate three pairs to those in need.
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pennmom
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Post by pennmom on Dec 4, 2021 16:10:04 GMT
World Wildlife Conservation Day – December 4, 2021~International
World Wildlife Conservation Day is on December 4 and we’re so excited to spread awareness about preserving Earth’s endangered flora and fauna. What do you think the most invasive species on Earth is? Monkeys? Catfish? Locusts? It’s us, humans. Nature’s most magnificent creatures are becoming endangered and being pushed to the brink of extinction by the greed of some humans, and this is causing irreparable harm to the wildlife ecosystem.
HISTORY OF WORLD WILDLIFE CONSERVATION DAY World Wildlife Conservation Day is an occasion to be aware, reflect, and take action when it comes to issues that are threatening the planet’s wildlife biodiversity balance. Driven by the demand for illegal animal parts and products on the black market, humans have been hunting, poaching, and slaughtering several wildlife species to the brink of extinction.
Human interference in the world’s natural ecosystem has been ongoing for centuries. In the modern world, as humans traveled and settled in different parts of the world, they cleared land for farming, cut forests for shipbuilding, and began hunting and trapping for money. Over the years, wildlife hunting and poaching became more common and wildlife populations started to decline across the globe.
On November 8, 2012, Hillary Clinton, the Secretary of State at that time, put out a call to action to raise awareness and engage conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts about World Wildlife Conservation Day. She also outlined the White House’s strategy to address the global problem of wildlife trafficking.
Unfortunately, even today, the illegal trade of endangered species on the black market is rising. Although governments across the world are trying their best and, in some cases, succeeding to stop this act, not all species are safe from poachers and hunters. This not only affects the wildlife but also the lives of millions of people who live within or close to forested areas in different parts of the world. So, it is time we act and work together to preserve and protect the wildlife to ensure their survival.
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pennmom
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Post by pennmom on Dec 4, 2021 16:12:06 GMT
Wear Brown Shoes Day – December 4, 2021~U.S.
Wear Brown Shoes Day on December 4 is a day to celebrate, honor and, most importantly, wear brown shoes! Did you know that at one point in time, brown shoes were considered less prestigious than black shoes? Today, things have changed and brown shoes are viewed as a symbol of elegance and beauty. Moreover, people worldwide are rocking their style with brown shoes, pairing them with every outfit at any time of the day.
HISTORY OF WEAR BROWN SHOES DAY Wear Brown Shoes Day is the day to shower brown shoes with the love and respect they deserve. Whether you’re out shopping, chilling with your friends on a , trekking in the woods, or attending a professional meeting, brown shoes make you look uber-stylish.
However, the exact origins of Wear Brown Shoe Day are unknown. It may have been created by a style guru who wanted people to give brown shoes the attention they deserve or maybe it was created by someone like you and me, who was just tired of wearing the same old black shoes every day. But one thing we can all agree on is that brown shoes need more love!
In ancient times, brown shoes were made from tanned leathers and that’s where they got their brown color from. As time went on and people discovered black and other color dyes, brown shoes became less prestigious than black shoes because they were often worn by countrymen who worked in dirt and soil. It even reached a point where phrases such as “no brown in town” and “no brown after six” were used. But this changed over time and these partialities don’t exist anymore.
We’ve grown accustomed to the color brown, and it feels earthy and natural to us. Today, most people assume that people who wear brown shoes, especially brown leather shoes, are confident and reliable. Additionally, they go great with absolutely any item or color of clothing. So, step out in your brown shoes and make your statement!
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pennmom
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[TI0] ALWAYS BE YOURSELF, UNLESS YOU CAN BE A UNICORN. THEN ALWAYS BE A UNICORN!
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Post by pennmom on Dec 4, 2021 16:14:08 GMT
Tree Dressing Day – December 4, 2021~U.K.
Tree Dressing Day occurs annually on the first weekend in December. It celebrates the importance of trees and encourages us to value and care for them. Tree Dressing Day was initiated by Common Ground, a U.K.-based charity based in Dorset, that has been at the forefront of community conservation and environmental education in England for over 30 years.
HISTORY OF TREE DRESSING DAY Tree Dressing Day was initiated by Common Ground in 1990 to serve as the day we show our love for trees and reflect on the important role they’ve played since the beginning of time.
Trees improve the quality of our air, they brighten and enhance our environment and provide shade from the hot sun. The presence of trees alone is enough to reduce our stress and improve our sense of wellbeing.
The day is a chance for everyone to gather and celebrate the leafy friends we all have in common. It’s also a time to reflect on the role trees have played in shaping the social and cultural history of our community.
Tree Dressing Day is celebrated in different cultures around the world; from Scotland, to Japan, to England. It’s a tradition that brings us closer to trees and highlights the crucial place they have in our lives and in society, as we work towards appreciating them fully.
One of the customs of Tree Dressing Day, aside from dressing them in ribbons, notes, clothes, lanterns, and more, is to find a tree or group of trees that are important to our community, to embrace. The day also serves as a way to research tree dressing in other cultures for inspiration and understand why their existence is so crucial to us and our planet.
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pennmom
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Post by pennmom on Dec 4, 2021 16:16:22 GMT
SKYWARN™ Recognition Day – December 4, 2021~U.S.
SKYWARN™ Recognition Day on the first Saturday in December, on December 4 this year, honors the services of all those amateur radio operators who work around the clock to submit information about any severe weather patterns, including tornados, storms, or strong winds. Such weather conditions could cause severe damage to people’s lives and properties. A prior warning by a SKYWARN™ volunteer helps lessen any casualties. The volunteers come from all walks of life and backgrounds. They are specially trained by the National Weather Service (N.W.S.) to be able to accurately report on weather conditions. So, if your day’s plans are dependent on the weather outside, tune in to the radio to learn more about the weather patterns being reported by SKYWARN™ volunteers.
HISTORY OF SKYWARN™ RECOGNITION DAY The first SKYWARN™ Recognition Day was observed in 1999. It was created by the N.W.S. and the American Radio Relay League (A.R.R.L.). The two organizations decided that the day would be commemorated on the first Saturday of every December. N.W.S. is an American governmental agency whose focus is to report on usual and unusual weather conditions. They issue warnings and emergencies if the weather is expected to take a turn for the worst. N.W.S., which is headquartered in Maryland, Washington, believes it is their responsibility to protect people from harm caused by adverse weather. The agency collects its information through more than 120 offices all over the country.
The American Radio Relay League (A.R.R.L.) is another organization that helps N.W.S. receive and report accurate weather conditions. Formed in 1914, it is the largest non-profit organization for amateur radio enthusiasts. The co-founders, Hiram Maxim and Clarence Tuska, were both associated with the radio agency. Their interest in the field saw them coming together to create A.R.R.L. in order to give a chance to those who were not from the field but still wanted to contribute to it. The organization provides technical training, education, sponsorships, and assistance to its members, many of whom have gone on to volunteer as SKYWARN™ reporters for N.W.S. An A.R.R.L. membership is not limited to America as more than 7,000 members of the total 161,000 members belong to other countries. The organization holds several conventions and publishes a special journal called “QST”. Every year, about 290,000 report on any weather irregularities. Such reports have worked to lessen the overall damage, allowing people and organizations to save money as well.
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pennmom
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[TI0] ALWAYS BE YOURSELF, UNLESS YOU CAN BE A UNICORN. THEN ALWAYS BE A UNICORN!
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Post by pennmom on Dec 4, 2021 16:18:37 GMT
National Dice Day – December 4, 2021~U.S.
National Dice Day is on December 4 and we’re celebrating by … rolling dice and playing with dice! Can you believe that dice have been around for over 5,000 years? Dice are popular all over the world and are available in many colors, shapes, materials, and forms. From “Monopoly” and “Snakes and Ladders” to your favorite roleplaying game, this ancient gaming tool is an integral part of many games.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL DICE DAY Dice are a famous gaming tool that has been used for gambling and gaming since the age of kings and conquerors. Whether you like roleplaying games, strategy games, or simple board games, there is a dice game out there for everyone. Today, almost all of us will have some amazing childhood memories associated with dice games.
The origin of dice and National Dice Day is still uncertain. However, dice can be and have been found throughout the world. In fact, dice have a long tradition. The most common die is a cube with six sides having one to six dots on each side.
The oldest-known dice ever were excavated at ‘The Burnt City’ in present-day Iran as a portion of a backgammon-like game set that dates back to 5000 B.C. Historians say that various civilizations have used dice in games. There have been instances of dice in the Indus Valley, Egypt, Rome, and China. Various religions like Hinduism and Christianity mention the game of dicing.
In the olden days, dice were first made from the talus or ankle bones of hoofed animals. As time went on, ivory, wood, plastic, and other materials were used to make dice. The dice that we use today are mostly made from plastic or synthetic resin.
Today, there are hundreds of games that exist around the world that incorporate dice as a way to add random challenges or obstacles to the objectives. Even without a board or a game set-up, playing with dice can be entertaining!
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