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Post by pennmom on Dec 24, 2021 20:08:37 GMT
National Consumer Rights Day – December 24, 2021~India
Rights of all consumers are celebrated and promoted across India annually on National Consumer Rights Day, December 24. Consumers hold the most power in buying and selling of goods and, where the west has properly established consumer rights, India is still striving to highlight its national consumer movement and stand in solidarity with it. With e-commerce gaining more and more popularity, it is important for consumers to be aware of and exercise their rights, as well as their responsibilities.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL CONSUMER RIGHTS DAY In India, the rights of consumers were taken seriously when the Consumer Protection Act of 1986 was enacted. The aim of this bill was to safeguard the consumer against exploitation like the selling of defective goods, unfair trade, fraudulence, and deficiency in services.
Over the years, India’s economy has undergone a transformation, significantly altering how many Indians shop and travel. This was a result of the rising market competition, innovations, and increasing presence of e-commerce services, which expanded the options available to consumers. So the tried-and-trusted habits of the consumer have been disrupted, which created a need for the Consumer Protection Act to be revised and revamped. Taking this dynamic and advanced marketplace into perspective, India’s parliament passed the updated Consumer Protection Bill on August 6, 2019.
The bill, commonly known as CPA 2019, received approval from the President of India on August 9, 2019. Thereafter, the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution declared July 20, 2020, for the CPA 2019 to come into effect.
The Consumer Protection Acts of both 1986 and 2019 are complemented by the Right to Information Act, which made the governance processes of India transparent to the citizens and included vast implications for consumer rights. These include the right to safety, the right to information, the right to choose, and the right to consumer education.
Themes are also observed every year on this holiday. The latest theme was ‘alternate consumer grievance/dispute redressal’.
The idea of a Consumer Rights Day is also observed on a global level. Inspired by President John F. Kennedy, general guidelines were set out by the United Nations for consumer protection. In 1983, March 15 was marked as the annual celebration of World Consumer Rights Day.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 24, 2021 20:11:12 GMT
Libya Independence Day – December 24, 2021~Libya
Libya Independence Day is observed on December 24 every year. In 1951, Libya gained independence from France and Britain after the U.N. General Assembly voted that Libya become independent on or before January 1, 1952. A constitution was drawn up and King Idris I declared the country independent. Previously, Libya was divided between Britain and France after Italy was ousted from the country. Before Italy, however, Libya was under the rule of the Ottoman empire. The independence of Libya in 1951 launched the country into a new era of its own politics and economy.
HISTORY OF LIBYA INDEPENDENCE DAY On December 24, 1951, Libya gained independence from its colonial masters, France and Britain. This came after the U.N. General Assembly decreed in 1949 that Libya become independent on or before the first day of 1952. Before independence, Libya had been under various regimes, including the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Ottomans, Italians, and finally, France and Britain.
Libya became an Italian colony in 1912, following the war between the Ottoman empire and Italy from September 29, 1911, to October 18, 1912. However, Italy lost control of Libya after its defeat in World War II. The United Nations organization then took over the country and control was divided between Britain and France. Lybia then became known as the United Kingdom of Libya, also unifying the three Libyan provinces of Cyrenaica, Fezzan, and Tripolitania at the same time. King Idris al-Sanusi subsequently became king.
Muammar Gaddafi led a coup d’état that ousted the sitting king on September 1, 1969. This led to the establishment of the Libyan Arab Republic, and this date was recognized instead of December 24.
However, after the demise of Gaddafi in 2011, Libya Independence Day was reinstated as a national holiday. It commemorates the independence of Libya from its colonial masters.
Libya Independence Day is a national holiday in Libya. Thus, schools and public offices are usually closed on the day to allow the people to celebrate their independence from colonial rule. Nationwide celebrations are usually observed for the day, along with parades and fireworks.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 24, 2021 20:12:59 GMT
National Eggnog Day – December 24, 2021~U.S.
Christmas Eve just got better with National Eggnog Day on December 24. You know, the drink that is only available in stores during the holiday season. A sweet beverage made from milk, sugar, spices, cream, and eggs, eggnog has been enjoyed by families a day before Christmas for centuries now. Liquor is optional for those who want to get more festive.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL EGGNOG DAY Eggnog, also known as egg milk punch when prepared as an alcoholic drink, is a rich and creamy dairy beverage basically made by mixing cream, milk, sugar, and whipped eggs to create a frothy texture. Liquor is optional, and, once prepared, the drink is served chilled.
The origins of this sweet Christmas drink are highly debated, as well as the primary ingredients used for it. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the word ‘nog’ was used to describe a type of strong beer brewed in East Anglia, England. Others argue that eggnog was developed as a beverage in medieval Europe, using piping hot milk.
The first time the term was printed was in the March 26 issue of the “New-Jersey Journal” in 1788, referring to a man enjoying a glass of eggnog. Again, there is no consensus on how eggnog got its name. One theory suggests that the drink was first named ‘grog’, eventually evolving to ‘eggnog.’ Other sources claim that ‘nog’ was used in the Old English vocabulary for a strong ale. So, essentially, this means that egg and nog is a nod to any drink containing eggs and alcohol.
Eggnog could possibly also have been a spin-off of the once-popular drink enjoyed by the British called posset. Made using curdled milk mixed with wine, it was often used for medicinal purposes. Later, in the 16th century, cream and a citrus base were added to the ingredients.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 24, 2021 20:16:34 GMT
Christmas Eve – December 24, 2021~World
Christmas Eve takes place on December 24 and is probably one of the best nights of the year! Christmas has the power to reunite families and friends, warm up our hearts, and remind us that we have so many things to be thankful for. So put on your cozy PJs, light up your fireplace, call your loved ones, and top off your hot cocoa with some fluffy marshmallows!
WHEN IS CHRISTMAS EVE 2021? Christmas Eve is on December 24 and marks the culmination of the Advent period before Christmas that starts on the fourth Sunday before Christmas Eve. Many churches mark the end of Advent with midnight church services. During modern times, it is popularly celebrated on the night before Christmas Day.
HISTORY OF CHRISTMAS EVE The tradition of celebrating Christmas Eve derives partly from Christan liturgy starting at sunset, which is inherited from Jewish tradition and based on the Book of Genesis’s Story of Creation, saying the first day starts in the evening and ends in the morning. It is also believed that Jesus, or Jesus of Nazareth, was born at midnight in the region of Palestine. Many historical conceptions on ancient traditions contributed to the development of eve celebrations, which persisted in the early Christian calendar.
Christmas Eve marks the end of the Advent season, the period of preparation for Christmas, which begins on November 30, or November 15 in the East. It was on this night that the shepherds keeping watch over their flocks outside Bethlehem saw the bright star in the sky that signaled the birth of Jesus Christ. This is why many churches have services beginning on the fourth Sunday before Christmas. From the 12th to the 15th century, due to the Holy Inquisition, Christian traditions were made mandatory. During the 16th century, the church was influenced by the Winter Solstice celebrations and began Christmas preparations the night prior.
In many parts of Europe, people believe that at midnight on Christmas Eve, animals briefly possess the power of speech. It might have been the traditional association of the ox and the donkey in the Nativity scene that gave rise to such superstitions, but the concept of talking animals is probably pagan in origin. A closely related belief, widespread in England and Europe, is that cattle rise in their stalls at midnight on Christmas Eve, or kneel to worship the Christ child.
Despite its Christian significance, there are a number of pagan and supernatural beliefs connected with Christmas Eve. In Scandinavian countries, it is believed that the dead revisit their former homes on Christmas Eve. People make sure that their parlors are tidy and that a good fire is burning before they go to bed. They often light candles, set the table, and leave out plenty of food for their ghostly visitors. They also make sure that the seats of their chairs have been dusted. When they get up in the morning, they wipe the chairs again with a clean white towel. If they find any dirt on the seat, it means that a relative fresh from the grave sat there during the night.
Celebrating Christmas as a holiday became popular in the 19th century. Christmas Eve remains an important part of Christian culture and signifies the birth of Jesus. It has become even more popular within the last century thanks to a beloved icon: Claus. The idea of the jolly man in red gave rise to more traditions such as hanging stockings and leaving out cookies, milk, and sometimes carrots for his reindeer. Apart from Claus and Christianity, Christmas Eve took on another significance — it also became a day made for spending time with and loved ones over dinner, decorating, gift wrapping, and Christmas-themed movies. The holiday unites families and friends, allowing them to get together and enjoy special and traditional activities, from Europe, North- and Latin America, to Asia.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 25, 2021 21:16:33 GMT
Quaid-e-Azam Day – December 25, 2021~Pakistan
Quaid-e-Azam Day in Pakistan is celebrated every year on December 25. It is a celebration of Muhammad Ali Jinnah’s birthday across Pakistan. He is believed to be the founder of the country and was known as ‘Qaid-e-Azam,’ which means ‘Great Leader.’ It’s a major national holiday with a lot of events throughout the country. Jinnah was made the governor-general of Pakistan on August 14, 1947. He worked hard to set up a government and organize a country torn by communal violence. He died one year after he was appointed the governor-general of Pakistan in his home in Karachi. His efforts for the country have enshrined him as one of the greatest leaders of Pakistan.
HISTORY OF QUAID-E-AZAM DAY Muhammad Ali Jinnah is honored in Pakistan as the first governor-general and the father of the nation. Quaid-e-Azam Jinnah, as he was popularly known, had a lot of work ahead of him.
He was responsible for looking after thousands of Indian immigrants and setting up a government. Muhammad Ali Jinnah took over a new, shook country to rule. At the time, he was also suffering from tuberculosis. He worked hard to ensure that Pakistan had a form of governance before he died just a year after being in charge as governor-general, on September 11, 1948.
Before he was the governor-general, Muhammad Ali Jinnah was a trained barrister with his legal practice. He was an active member of the Indian National Congress and a significant figure in the subcontinent’s struggle for freedom from colonial rule.
By 1940, Jinnah decided that a separate Muslim State was necessary to ensure that Muslims would not become an ignored minority in the newly formed state of India. He fought long and hard to ensure the creation of Pakistan, and his victory is a pivotal point of celebration for the people of the country.
He was such a beloved leader that his birthday, December 25, was declared Quaid-e-Azam Day. This day is observed in Pakistan in various ways. The national flag is specially hoisted at governmental and non-governmental buildings, plus formal events are also part of the public holiday.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 25, 2021 21:18:44 GMT
National Pie Day – December 25, 2021~U.S.
The symbol of the harvest season in fall and the dessert passed around most at the Christmas table gets its special day on National Pie Day, December 25. Featuring a pie shell base filled with custard, pies are garnished and served with various spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. If you missed out on celebrating National Day around Halloween, now is the time to make up for it!
HISTORY OF NATIONAL PIE DAY While it is uncertain how National Pie Day celebrations started, pie itself has quite a rich history. The name originates from the Greek word ‘pepon’, meaning ‘large melon’. This was adopted by the French as ‘pompon’ and was eventually changed into ‘pumpion’ by the English. The first pilgrims who settled in the Plymouth Colony may have made a sort of pie. With the pumpkins brought to them by Native Americas, the first settlers were able to make a custard using milk, honey, and spices. This is also what led to the serving of the pie at the first Thanksgiving ever.
In 1651, famous French Chef François Pierre de la Varenne published one of his most important French cookbooks, “Le Vrai Cuisinier François” (The True French Cook). This was translated into English in 1653 and featured a recipe for pie under the name ‘Tourte of ’.
Recipes for ‘pumpion pie’ made their way into English cookbooks by the 1670s. Experimental recipes lessened, and a more defined version started appearing, with the inclusion of spices. Other optional ingredients included raisins, apples, and currants.
But in 1796 the pie really took shape when “American Cookery” was authored and published by American orphan Amelia Simmons. It was the first of its kind to contain recipes more suited to American tastes and had a recipe for pudding, which is baked in a crust. It was similar to the pie we eat today.
Nowadays, the recipe inspirations for pie are endless, thanks to Pinterest and other sources. A staple dessert on Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas, pie really is the perfect holiday treat.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 25, 2021 21:20:37 GMT
Jesus' Birthday – December 25, 2021~World
Who was Jesus Christ, and why is December 25 a major holiday celebrated across all geographic, political, and religious boundaries? Interestingly, while Jesus is associated primarily with Christianity in the Western world, other religions also recognize him as a significant figure. Explore this fascinating, mysterious, and sometimes controversial man’s life as we honor him on his birthday.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 25, 2021 21:25:55 GMT
Christmas – December 25, 2021~World
Every year on December 25, we celebrate Christmas, a day for spending time with , observing an important Christian holiday, partaking in lighthearted traditions, or just spreading some holiday cheer! Christmas has evolved over several millennia into a worldwide celebration that’s both religious and secular and chock full of fun-filled, activities.
HISTORY OF CHRISTMAS Traditionally, Christians claim Christmas as the day on which Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was born. And although many of our Christmas Day rituals and traditions evolved from that singular moment, that’s not the whole story. Although there are myths and truths about Christmas, let’s unpack what we do know.
The fact is that no one knows the exact time and place of Jesus’ birth. In the Bible’s New Testament, apostles Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John share similar stories but they never actually name the date of Jesus’ birth. December 25 is largely attributed to the first Christian historian, Sextus Julius Africanus, around 221 A.D.
In one view of why December 25 was chosen as the official date for Christmas, historians believe the early church wanted to link the Son of God’s birth with the “rebirth of the sun,” which arrives after the winter equinox. A second view bases the date around Jesus’ date of conception on March 25, at the spring equinox. December 25 would then be the date of Jesus’ birth exactly nine months later.
At one point, the Church designated January 6 as Jesus’ baptismal date and the correct date for Christmas. But by the 9th century, Christmas was observed only as a minor holy day.
By the Middle Ages, Europeans created some of the Christmas customs we recognize today. In Strasbourg, apple-decorated fir trees appeared in homes. During the 17th and 18th centuries, people started to give gifts as symbolic of the Magi arriving in Bethlehem with offerings for the newborn baby Jesus. By the 19th century, fir wreaths laden with 24 candles representing the 24 days before Christmas were later reduced to a much safer four candles. Eventually, Christmas Day traditions spread beyond Europe to Latin and North America and other places around the world.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 26, 2021 15:34:56 GMT
National Homeowners Day – December 26, 2021~U.S.
National Homeowners Day is celebrated on December 26 every year and was founded by Paisley Vartanian in 2020. It’s believed this is the ideal day to put an offer on a house in order to have optimal savings. Being a homeowner is a big milestone for many people, and they also see it as a secure investment for their future. Celebrating this day is important in the present-day landscape where property prices are at an all-time high and housing crises keep occurring in different markets. This encourages prospective homeowners to buy homes and help support the economy.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL HOMEOWNERS DAY During the 1800s, most people could not own a house. There was no system of getting a mortgage from a bank, and only the very rich were able to own homes. People either weren’t able to afford it or banks didn’t lend money to the average person. Mortgages were only introduced when the U.S. banking system was stabilized after the National Banking Acts were established in the 1860s.
Thanks to these acts, banks also started lending money to more people and by the 1890s, mortgages had become popular throughout the U.S. Unlike the mortgages that we know today, these required a 50% down payment and could only be paid through monthly interests that the loan generated.
When the Great Depression occurred in 1929, banks no longer had any money to lend. It was a major economic crisis and the whole country suffered. The homeowners who had taken loans out also didn’t have any money to pay for monthly installments, and hence, they defaulted. Many homes also went into foreclosure.
Nothing stays the same forever and once this period passed, banks stabilized once again and the housing market boomed. By the 1950s, over 50% of Americans were homeowners for the first time in history. Buying homes had become very common by then, and there were real-estate brokers to assist potential customers with their home-buying journey. The real-estate profession also boomed along with the increase in homebuyers.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 26, 2021 15:38:55 GMT
National Whiners Day – December 26, 2021~U.S.
Whiners have whined their way into getting their own holiday on National Whiner’s Day, December 26. We all know someone whose incessant whining puts Moaning Myrtle’s to shame. But on this day, everyone is encouraged to complain about anything that is bothering them, which is understandable, as Christmas can be quite hectic and mentally exhausting. But while you are allowed to grumble about that Christmas gift you didn’t receive or negative remarks from an annoying relative, it’s more important to focus on being grateful for all that you have and to appreciate the good things in life.
HISTORY OF NATIONAL WHINERS DAY Too tired? Overate too much? Dreading going back to work? Return aisle queues too long? Oh, we can whine on and on. It’s so easy to get caught up in complaining about everything that goes wrong or things we don’t get. And while we are at full liberty to do that, instead of focusing on the negatives and have-nots, National Whiner’s Day encourages chronic complainers to look on the bright side of things.
This is exactly what Rev. Kevin Zaborney hoped for when he created National Whiner’s Day in 1986. Designated on December 26, he wanted folks to be grateful for what they have instead of being unhappy about what they don’t have. We get it, everybody wants to blow some steam after Christmas is over, but marking the end of the most wonderful time of the year with constant whining is the opposite of everything the season stands for.
Zaborney started this day after observing many people whine non-stop the day after Christmas. He also founded National Hugging Day, as there were more problems and whining going around and fewer comforting bear hugs!
Less fortunate people than us will gratefully accept things or circumstances that we whine about. Overeaten? Some are struggling to put food on the table. Relatives overstaying? Some yearn for a . Didn’t get a gift of your choice? Some didn’t get any presents at all. You may whine today, but count your blessings and be thankful as well.
The ‘Most Famous Whiner’ is also announced each year. Nominations are accepted until December 15. The Most Famous Whiner of 2010 was Lindsey Lohan and the title was passed to Donald Trump in 2015.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 26, 2021 15:44:47 GMT
St. Stephen's Day (Ireland) – December 26, 2021~Ireland
St. Stephen’s Day is celebrated on December 26 every year. As the name suggests, the day is dedicated to the Christian Saint Stephen. This day commemorates the saint who was the first Christian martyr and was known for his service to the poor and needy. In Ireland, this day is sometimes called ‘Day of the Wren,’ which got its name from an old tradition involving using a wren’s feathers for good luck. St. Stephen’s Day stems from the Catholic tradition, and some Christians may even go to the church for a special sermon on this day.
HISTORY OF ST. STEPHEN'S DAY (IRELAND) St. Stephen is known to be the first Christian martyr. It’s believed he was stoned in Jerusalem around 33 A.D. According to an Irish myth, it was a wren that betrayed St. Stephen while he was hiding from his enemies. This led to his eventual demise. There is another Irish legend that talks about the wren’s betrayal. Around the year 750 A.D., there were Viking raids in Ireland that happened on St. Stephen’s Day. In an attempt to get rid of the invaders, Irish soldiers headed towards a Viking camp. However, the Viking soldiers became aware of their approach due to the noise of a wren that had started eating crumbs from a drum. This story also led people to believe that it was the wren that betrayed the Irish people and it should be stoned to death as St. Stephen had once been.
On this day, boys used to traditionally go on hunting trips to hunt down a wren by throwing stones at it. They tied the wren to a stick when it was dead and showed it off around the whole village. The children did this to collect money for a dance or party for the whole village. By 1900, this tradition of killing wrens and parading them on St. Stephen’s Day had died out. However, St. Stephen’s Day is still referred to as the Day of the Wren, especially in rural Ireland. Due to its Catholic roots, St. Stephen’s Day has been a holiday in Ireland for many years. It was only in 1871 that it became a public holiday after the Bank Holidays Act of 1871 was passed.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 26, 2021 15:49:00 GMT
Kwanzaa – December 26, 2021~World
Heri Za Kwanzaa! Kwanzaa, celebrated from December 26 to January 1, is an African American and pan-African seven-day cultural holiday that celebrates and community. During the holiday, families celebrate with feasts, music, and dance, and end the holiday with a day dedicated to reflection and recommitment to the seven principles.
HISTORY OF KWANZAA Professor and chairman of Black Studies at California State University, Long Beach, Dr. Maulana Karenga, created Kwanzaa in 1966 in the midst of the Black Freedom Movement, reflecting concerns for cultural grounding in thought and practice. After the Watts riots in L.A., Dr. Karenga looked for ways to strengthen the African-American community. He founded the US Organization, a cultural organization, and started to research African “first fruit” (harvest) celebrations. Karenga combined aspects of several different harvest celebrations, such as those of the Ashanti and those of the Zulu, to form the basis of Kwanzaa.
The name Kwanzaa comes from the phrase “matunda ya kwanza” meaning “first fruits” in Swahili. Swahili is considered a pan-African language, and also happens to be the most widely spoken language in Africa. Basing the language of the holiday in Swahili represents unity throughout the African and Black communities.
The first-fruits celebrations are recorded in African history as far back as ancient Egypt and Nubia and appear in ancient and modern times in other classical African civilizations such as Ashantiland and Yorubaland. Kwanzaa developed as a flourishing branch of the African American life and struggle as a recreated and expanded ancient tradition. It draws from the cultures of various African people and is celebrated by millions of Africans and African Americans throughout the nation. Each celebrates Kwanzaa in their own way, but celebrations often include song and dance, African drums, storytelling, poetry readings, and a large traditional meal. On each of the seven nights, the gathers and a child lights one of the candles on the kinara, then one of the seven principles, called Nguzo Saba, is discussed. These principles are values of African culture which contribute to building and reinforcing community among African Americans.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 26, 2021 15:54:17 GMT
Boxing Day – December 26, 2021~World
Boxing Day is held every December 26th in many countries associated with the British empire. It started as a day to give gifts to the household staff of Britain’s upper classes but has morphed into a sort of shopping holiday of its own. In fact, its one of the most popular days to return Christmas gifts to the stores.
WHEN IS BOXING DAY 2021? When Christmas Day is over, the celebration continues on Boxing Day on December 26. The name was first used in 1833, but the exact origin has never been determined. Theories behind ‘Boxing’ Day include references to Christmas gifts, charity drives, or a nautical tradition.
HISTORY OF BOXING DAY The day after Christmas, Boxing Day is celebrated in the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada. But let’s clear up something first — Boxing Day is not about pummeling opponents. This unique holiday has its roots in gift-giving on one hand and classism on the other. Here’s what we know about Boxing Day’s origins.
The entire British class system worked to make Christmas Day a big deal for wealthy elites. They splurged on Christmas dinners of geese, turkey, and other fowl cooked by kitchen staff. Household servants worked hard making all the holiday preparations during the years well before the conveniences and technological advances of the Industrial Revolution. Messenger boys regularly ran errands and postmen delivered mail and packages year-round.
Boxing Day, on December 26, gave the wealthy a chance to repay their servants and tradespeople with paid time off and small gift boxes filled with trinkets or coins as a show of appreciation for their service during the holidays and throughout the year. Servants and tradespeople also prepared gift boxes for their own families, too.
Some historians attribute Boxing Day to the small boxes of alms placed near the church doors requesting donations to help the poor during Advent. On the day after Christmas, members of the church clergy would distribute the donations to needy citizens throughout the community. December 26 was chosen for these charitable acts because the day was dedicated to St. Stephen, a patron saint known for good works and his status as the first Christian martyr.
Ironically, during modern times, Boxing Day is synonymous with holiday shopping, good times, and sports. Rather than boxing, soccer and cricket matches are the sports of choice that bring everyone together for more holiday fun. In the UK, sports are often played on Boxing Day, especially football matches and horse racing. There is a cricket test match on Boxing Day each year in Australia, where they play against another country. Fox hunts were also a big part of Boxing Day traditions, but in 2004, the activity was banned in the UK. Hunters still gather, dressed in their finest coats, but now follow designated artificial trails.
Traditionally, the holiday was celebrated by giving to the needy and less fortunate, but over time, Boxing Day has evolved and been commodified in several different ways. Boxing Day is also now a time of year when big sales are offered by shops traditionally after Christmas in the UK – similar to Black Friday in the USA. Sales and revenue are so heavy now in countries that celebrate Boxing Day that now some retailers advertise ‘Boxing Week.’ These worldwide sales feature deals and discounts lasting until the end of the month.Attachments:
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Post by pennmom on Dec 26, 2021 15:57:43 GMT
Day of Goodwill – December 26, 2021~South Africa
The day after Christmas is celebrated as Day of Goodwill on December 26 in South Africa. A public holiday throughout the country, the lingering spirit of Christmas continues, as South Africans bask in the sunshine, enjoy a day at the beach, savor long lunches, and just spend some leisure time outdoors with friends and . The holiday also gives citizens a chance to give back to society through volunteer work and charity affairs that are organized.
HISTORY OF DAY OF GOODWILL On the Day of Goodwill, South Africans recover from the Christmas festivities and treat themselves to a day of fun, food, and sunshine. The day was originally celebrated as Boxing Day, but in 1994 the name of the holiday was changed to Day of Goodwill as a sign of severance from the region’s colonial past. Boxing Day is essentially a British holiday during which ‘boxes’ of gifts or money are donated to the needy a day after Christmas. Despite the name change, the traditions of the holiday more or less remain the same in South Africa. It is also a public holiday so people can relax and unwind on their day off.
The weather is warm and pleasant as it is summer during this time of the year in South Africa so, naturally, more unconventional Christmas activities are common, like heading to the beach.
In 1652, the first Dutchmen stepped onto South African soil. Before long, the region became a Dutch colony. This continued until 1795 when the British took over rule of South Africa. The Dutch reigned once again in 1803, after which the British again took control 3 years later. This conflict continued back and forth between the British and the Dutch for many years. Finally, the British granted South Africa partial independence, with the establishment of the Union of South Africa in 1910. South Africa’s exit from the Commonwealth and declaring itself a Republic in 1961 marked the beginning of the end of colonial rule. In 1994, the same year Nelson Mandela became president, Boxing Day was changed to Day of Goodwill.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 26, 2021 16:00:45 GMT
National Candy Cane Day – December 26, 2021~U.S.
National Candy Cane Day is on December 26, and while that doesn’t mean it’ll keep us from munching on the sugary sticks as early as Thanksgiving, it does give us a chance to indulge as much as we can before New Year’s. With beginnings in 17th-century Germany, these sweet treats were curved to represent the shepherds’ crooks. They later made their way to the states in the mid-19th century. Now we see them everywhere, even on trees.
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Post by pennmom on Dec 28, 2021 17:07:14 GMT
Anniversary of Benazir Bhutto's Death – December 27, 2021~Pakistan
The Anniversary of Benazir Bhutto’s Death is an occasion that takes place on December 27 every year. The day aims to honor the Pakistani politician who was assassinated in a terrorist attack on December 27, 2007. However, it is not only the Pakistanis who mourn the loss of Benazir. Her death affected the entire world since she was the first-ever female leader of a Muslim nation. Her life was spent fighting for democracy and women’s rights. Are you a fan of the former Pakistani Prime Minister? Well, now is the perfect time to honor her accomplishments.
HISTORY OF ANNIVERSARY OF BENAZIR BHUTTO'S DEATH Benazir Bhutto was the former Prime Minister of Pakistan and was the chair of the political party called the Pakistan Peoples Party. She was born with a political background since her father Zulfikar Ali Bhutto also served as the Prime Minister of Pakistan. He was, however, removed from power in a military coup and later hanged for a crime he didn’t commit. After his death, Bhutto was sent into exile and she did not return to Pakistan until 1986. When she returned, she found that the nation had not forgotten her. At the airport, she was greeted by such large crowds that it took her motorcade nine-and-a-half hours to travel the eight miles from the airport to a rally site in Lahore.
Bhutto then served two terms as the Prime Minister of Pakistan until she was exiled in the late 1990s by military dictator Pervez Musharraf. After the dictatorship ended, Bhutto returned to Pakistan and joined an Alliance for the Restoration of Democracy in 2006. Amidst negotiations between the military regime and other politicians, Bhutto continued to hold rallies for her supporters across Pakistan.
On October 19, 2007, one of these rallies was disrupted by a suicide bomber who ended up killing 139 of her supporters. Bhutto survived the attack. However, her luck was short-lived as she was again attacked at a rally on December 27, 2007. Bhutto was standing through her vehicle’s sunroof to wave at supporters when three shots were heard. The attack was followed by a blast. Bhutto died on the way to the hospital.
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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 28, 2021 17:09:03 GMT
International Day of Epidemic Preparedness – December 27, 2021~International
International Day of Epidemic Preparedness on December 27 serves the purpose of creating awareness about epidemics. The truth is, the world has been infected with numerous epidemics in history. However, mankind still managed to survive by finding ways to curb the spread of viruses. But, don’t you think a great number of lives can be saved if nations are already prepared for a deadly epidemic/pandemic to strike? If you believe awareness and preparedness are key, celebrate the day with great fervor and spread the message. Play your part in fighting any epidemic that might come our way!
HISTORY OF INTERNATIONAL DAY OF EPIDEMIC PREPAREDNESS In late 2019, the coronavirus outbreak began in China. Numerous areas of the city were sealed as the infection rate began to rise and the body count increased. However, even though the news of the virus spread across the world, the authorities were unable to contain the disease. Within a few months, cases of COVID-19 emerged across the world and the death toll escalated. The virus, which was initially presumed to be the flu, was announced to be a pandemic that had impacted millions of lives across the world.
Due to the pandemic, the holes in the healthcare systems of several countries were revealed as hospitals ran out of beds and ventilators. In fact, there was a point when hand sanitizers and surgical masks were also out of stock. However, after months of studying the pandemic, several health experts believe that COVID-19 could have been contained if the world was prepared. Keeping this in mind, the first-ever International Day of Epidemic Preparedness was held on December 27, 2020. The day was called for by the United Nations General Assembly to advocate the importance of the prevention of, preparedness for, and partnership against epidemics. This was deemed necessary since COVID-19 highlighted the importance of investing in systems to prevent, detect and respond to infectious disease outbreaks. “COVID-19 is a human tragedy. But it has also created a generational opportunity. An opportunity to build back a more equal and sustainable world,” António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations said.
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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 28, 2021 17:11:07 GMT
Make Cut-Out Snowflakes Day – December 27, 2021~U.S.
We are ready with our art supplies for Make Cut-Out Snowflakes Day on December 27, and we want you to join us! Take out your foil paper, construction paper, glitters, scissors, and design templates (if you have any), and then just cut out basic shapes or intricate patterns into a beautiful snowflake. It’s a great way to creatively spend time with the after the hustle and bustle of Christmas and keep the children out of mischief.
HISTORY OF MAKE CUT-OUT SNOWFLAKES DAY You can’t have a white Christmas without snow, now, can you? Snowflakes are most associated with the holiday season, so naturally, it is a popular tradition to create paper snowflakes for décor purposes or just to have fun. The date of this holiday mildly surprises us, as making paper snowflakes is a regular craft activity in schools and, on December 27, schools are closed and children are at home. But, then again, it keeps the tots occupied.
Making snowflakes is a modern tradition, but the method for creating it is based on the old art of origami. The concept of origami is about folding a piece of paper several times to create objects, and it started in Japan around the 17th century. Another variation is called Kirigami, which involves cutting out shapes into the folded paper. Cut-out snowflakes include both methods, requiring the folding of paper and then adding cuts in the desired places for a more detailed effect. Just like no two snowflakes are identical, you can cut as many different patterns as you like on your folded paper.
So whether it is detailed or basic, Make Cut-Out Snowflake Day is a timeless tradition that a lot of us have grown up with. It is a fantastic way to channel your creativity and remember what it felt like to work with scissors and art supplies as a kid. Once you and your have completed your snowflake projects, you can write your name on them or color them in for a unique and personalized touch. Then all you need to do is hang them from the ceiling or on a window, or wherever else you like, as a big of snowflakes. Attachments:
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pennmom
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Chief Ranger
[TI0] ALWAYS BE YOURSELF, UNLESS YOU CAN BE A UNICORN. THEN ALWAYS BE A UNICORN!
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Post by pennmom on Dec 28, 2021 17:12:32 GMT
National Fruitcake Day – December 27, 2021~U.S.
National Fruitcake Day is December 27, a day to celebrate every eccentric person you know. Wait! That’s not right. It’s a day for lovers of fruitcake to rejoice in the delights of the world’s most misunderstood fruit. A fruitcake is a boozy, chewy, rich amalgam of dried fruit, nuts, and sugar, saturated with your favorite alcohol, most commonly brandy or bourbon. That produces a dense, sweet, and textured treat generally served around the holidays. Fruitcakes have been found in ancient Egyptian tombs, so you know that the tradition is steeped in history as well as booze.
Are you “nutty as a fruitcake?” Find out in our fun-filled page of fruitcake trivia celebrating National Fruitcake Day.
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