All - Leep Calendar

We celebrate National Free Comic Book Day on the first Saturday of May. Throughout the country, comic book stores offer readers free comic books to spread the joy of reading graphic novels. To find out where free comic books will be available in your city, check the event website at http://www.freecomicbookday.com/ for a participating comic book store near you.

Africa

May

Computer, Choose Privacy Week: May 1-7

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The American Library Association is on the frontline of privacy protection, protecting each patron's right to search for information free from surveillance. The freedom to read and receive ideas anonymously is at the heart of individual liberty in a democracy, and librarians defend that freedom daily. National Choose Privacy Week is an annual educational initiative of the American Library Association designed to teach people how to safeguard their privacy online. As the Library Bill of Rights states: "Privacy is essential to the exercise of free speech, free thought, and free association. Lack of privacy and confidentiality chills users' choices, suppressing access to ideas. The possibility of surveillance, whether direct or through access to records of speech, research, and exploration, undermines a democratic society."

Africa

May

Condiment Month, Ntl.: May

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NATIONAL CONDIMENT MONTH: CELEBRATING FLAVOR ENHANCERS National Condiment Month, celebrated every May, highlights the beloved sauces, spreads, and seasonings that elevate our meals. Established by the Condiment Marketing Association, this month-long celebration acknowledges condiments' cultural and culinary significance in kitchens across the United States. The word "condiment" originates from the Latin word "condimentum," which means "spice, seasoning, or sauce." This, in turn, derives from the Latin verb "condire," meaning "to preserve, pickle, or season." The use of condiments dates back to ancient times when people sought ways to enhance the flavor of their food and preserve it through various methods, including pickling and seasoning. Over time, the term evolved to encompass multiple sauces, spreads, and seasonings used to flavor dishes. THE HISTORY OF CONDIMENTS Condiments have a rich history dating back thousands of years. Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, used various spices and sauces to enhance the flavor of their food. Archeologists discovered mustard seeds in the tombs of Egyptian pharaohs, and the Romans created garum, a fermented fish sauce that was a staple in their cuisine. Over centuries, condiments evolved, incorporating new ingredients and methods as global trade expanded. Top Five Condiments in the United States Ketchup—A staple in American households, ketchup, originally derived from a Chinese fish sauce, became popular in the 19th century when tomatoes were added. Mayonnaise—Originating from the Mediterranean, mayonnaise gained popularity in the US in the early 20th century and is now a key ingredient in sandwiches and salads. Mustard—With its roots in ancient Rome, mustard is available in various forms, from the bright yellow American mustard to the spicier Dijon. Sriracha—This Thai chili sauce has grown in popularity over the past decade and is known for its perfect balance of heat and sweetness. Barbecue Sauce—An American classic, barbecue sauce varies regionally, ranging from sweet and tangy to smoky and spicy. THE IMPORTANCE OF CONDIMENTS Condiments play a crucial role in culinary traditions by enhancing and complementing the flavors of dishes. They add depth and complexity to meals, allowing for personalized seasoning and the ability to cater to individual tastes. Condiments can also transform simple ingredients into gourmet experiences, making them indispensable in home and professional kitchens. HOW CONDIMENTS ARE USED Condiments are versatile and used in a multitude of ways: Flavor Enhancers—Condiments season and enhance the flavor of meats, vegetables, and grains. Dipping Sauces—Many condiments serve as dips for snacks like fries, chicken nuggets, and vegetables. Sandwich Spreads—Mustard, mayonnaise, and other spreads are essential for adding moisture and flavor to sandwiches. Marinades and Glazes—Barbecue sauce, soy sauce, and other condiments are often used to marinate meats or as glazes for grilling. Salad Dressings—Mayonnaise, vinegar, and oil-based condiments are vital ingredients in various salad dressings. National Condiment Month is an opportunity to explore and appreciate the variety of condiments that enhance our culinary experiences. From ancient sauces to modern favorites, condiments continue to be vital to our gastronomic heritage, offering endless possibilities for flavor and creativity.

Africa

May

Confederate Memorial Day (US-NC, SC)(1863): May 10*

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Confederate Memorial Day occurs in several former states of the Confederacy on different days of the year. In some cases, like Georgia, it is no longer referred to as Confederate Memorial Day but rather as a state holiday. It is an official state holiday in most locations that honors the men who died fighting for the Confederacy during the American Civil War, 1861-1865. The dates are as follows: Alabama, Georgia: fourth Monday in April Mississippi: Last Monday in April Florida: April 26 Tennessee, Kentucky, and Louisiana: June 3, Jefferson Davis's birthday, 1808 North and South Carolina: May 10, Anniversary of the death of General "Stonewall" Jackson in 1863 Texas: January 19, Birthday of Robert E. Lee 1807 Due to the 400-year legacy of slavery (ending in 1865) and state-supported racial segregation (ending in 1964), this event is highly contentious and seen as a celebration of racism by many critics. Detractors insist this plays into existing racism and celebrates white supremacy and slavery. Proponents of the observance insist that the Confederacy played a part in shaping who we are, its ramifications, and its contributions continue today. To deny a portion of our past, good and bad, is selective censorship. On the contrary, use this event to explore the unspoken but oft-felt prejudices and perceived reality that political correctness squelches. Whether you side with the detractors or the proponents, the best way to acknowledge this month is to read the Constitution of the United States and learn history—history, not social studies. A great place to start is with Howard Zinn's "People's History of the United States," which some states, including Arizona, have tried to ban from their schools. Why? Because it is a history of the American people, not the leaders, and looks at the nation from the perspective of the 99%, the immigrants, migrant workers, women, religious minorities, slaves, and the common man.

Africa

May

Constitution Day (MH)(1979): May 1

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The Marshall Islands' National Day, also known as Constitution Day, is celebrated annually on May 1st. This public holiday commemorates the adoption of the Marshall Islands' constitution on May 1, 1979. The constitution established the Republic of the Marshall Islands as a self-governing entity in free association with the United States, which provided for the country's defense and allowed for financial assistance. The Marshall Islands, located in the central Pacific Ocean, were initially under Spanish control before being sold to Germany in 1885. After World War I, Japan took control of the islands under a League of Nations mandate. Following World War II, the Marshall Islands became part of the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands administered by the United States. The process of gaining self-government for the Marshall Islands began in the 1970s, culminating in the drafting and adoption of the constitution on May 1, 1979. The Compact of Free Association with the United States was signed in 1982, and the Marshall Islands gained full independence on October 21, 1986. Constitution Day is a significant event in the country, marked by various festivities and activities. Celebrations include parades, traditional dance performances, sports competitions, and speeches by political leaders. The day is an opportunity for the Marshallese people to express their national pride and unity while honoring their history and achievements since gaining self-government.

Africa

May

Constitution Day (NO)(1814): May 17

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On May 17, 1814, Denmark ceded Norway to Sweden, and Norway ratified its first Constitution. Constitution Day is a national holiday in Norway.

Africa

May

Constitution Day (PL)(1791): May 3

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National Day in Poland is celebrated annually on May 3rd and is known as Constitution Day (Święto Konstytucji 3 Maja). This public holiday commemorates the adoption of the Polish Constitution on May 3, 1791. The Constitution of May 3rd was a significant milestone in Poland's history, as it was the first written constitution in modern Europe and the second-oldest written constitution in the world, after the United States Constitution. The Polish Constitution of 1791 aimed to reform and strengthen the political system, providing for the separation of powers among the legislative, executive, and judiciary branches, while also improving the rights and conditions of the peasantry. The constitution was a progressive document for its time and sought to address many of the issues that had weakened the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. Constitution Day is a major national holiday in Poland, marked by various activities and events throughout the country. Celebrations include flag-raising ceremonies, parades, concerts, and cultural events, as well as speeches by political leaders. The day is an opportunity for Poles to express their national pride and unity, and to honor their history and the progressive ideals enshrined in the Constitution of May 3rd.

Africa

May

Constitution Memorial Day (JP)(1947): May 3

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Marking the anniversary of the institution of the Japanese Constitution, May 3, 1947. This event is part of Golden Week in Japan, which is a national holiday.

Africa

May

Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Awareness Day: May 9

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Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Awareness Day is observed each year on the second Saturday of May to shed light on this often misdiagnosed, little-known genetic syndrome. First observed in 1989, CdLS is an opportunity to educate all about the syndrome. CdLS is a genetic syndrome present from birth. There is no cure, and it occurs in approximately one in 10,000 live births and affects males and females equally, regardless of race. The severity of CdLS ranges from mild to severe, but all individuals with CdLS share similar characteristics: small stature, hands, feet, and head; joined eyebrows; long eyelashes; upturned nose; and thin, downturned lips. Physical and cognitive development is delayed. Self-injurious behavior is typical, and 60-70% display some degree of autism spectrum disorder. Speech and language are delayed or absent. Limb differences and missing limbs occur in 25% of cases. Common medical problems include gastroesophageal reflux disease, bowel abnormalities, heart defects, seizures, and cleft palate. Changes in three different genes mark CdLS. These genes are NIPBL on chromosome five, SMC1A on the X chromosome, and SMC3 on chromosome ten. Changes in the latter two genes correlate with a milder form of the syndrome. In 99% of cases, the gene change that causes CdLS is sporadic, not inherited, which means the change occurs randomly during conception. Researchers estimate 20,000 individuals in the U.S. have CdLS but live without diagnosis and support services. Content adapted from the Cornelia de Lange Syndrome website.

Africa

May

Craft and Design Month (2011)(UK): May

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Craft & Design magazine launched Craft Design Month in 2011 to support and promote designers, makers, and small creative businesses across Britain. See the event website to search by region, craft, and event type. You'll find details of craft fairs, shows, courses, workshops, gallery exhibitions, open studios, and art trails. If you're an artist, crafter, or event organizer, you can list your Craft and Design Month events beginning in March each year.

Africa

May

Craft Beer Week, American: May 11-17

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Created in 2005 by the Brewers Association, American Craft Beer Week (ACBW) celebrates U.S. craft brewers. It usually occurs the second full week of May. Beer lovers everywhere celebrate the craft beer revolution via hundreds of events that showcase the innovative and economic contributions of today’s small and independent brewers. Events occur in all 50 states at craft breweries, brewpubs, and via retail partners. Additional activities include hosted brewery tours, special beer releases, multi-course pairing dinners, collaboration beers, retail promotions, and more.

Africa

May

Creativation (US-MO): May 15-19

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Creativation is the largest and longest-running creative industries event featuring hands-on education, innovative product launches, trendspotting, influencer appearances, order writing, and networking opportunities for thousands of creative businesses worldwide. PLEASE NOTE: Treat all televised and venue-specific events (sporting, concerts, trade shows, etc.) as estimated. Several factors can cause an event to move dates at the last minute, including weather, strikes, natural disasters, political upheaval, conflicting programming, pandemics, and current events. Because of this, always verify the event with the promotor before committing resources. LEEP often estimates dates based on the previous year's schedules, as the final dates are only a few months, weeks, or days before the event. If the date is known to be estimated, you will see an (est) following the date in the title.

Africa

May

Crohn's and Colitis Awareness Month (AU): May

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May is Crohn's & Colitis Awareness Month in Australia. The same event is observed in Canada each November. Crohn's disease can involve any part of the gastrointestinal tract from the mouth to the anus but most commonly affects the small intestine and the colon. There may be areas of healthy intestine between areas of diseased intestine. Within a diseased section, Crohn's disease can affect all layers of the intestinal wall. It can lead to the development of complications that are specific to this condition: Strictures (intestinal obstruction or narrowing of the intestinal wall) Abscesses (boils) and skin tags (swollen lumps or 'flaps' of thickened skin occurring just outside the anus). Fistulae (abnormal channels connecting different intestine loops to itself or other body organs). Fissures (ulcerated tears or cracks in the lining of the anal canal), malabsorption, and malnutrition. Sometimes surgery is required to lessen Crohn's Disease, but simple diet changes can often alleviate the problem. This month is about raising awareness of the disease and what people can do to mitigate the effects and improve the quality of their lives.

Africa

May

Cultural Diversity, World Day of: May 21

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World Day of Cultural Diversity is a United Nations-sponsored event designed to help people worldwide celebrate what makes us different and how we are the same. Fear and hate are learned emotions concerning groups of people; we are not born with these. Use this day to step out of your comfort zone and celebrate the differences that make us each delightful. Promise yourself you’ll reach out to someone on this day who is from a different culture, religion, nation, or race. If we all do this to just one person different from us, the world will be a better place.

Africa

May

Cyclofemme: May 10

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Cyclofemme is an annual global event that celebrates women and cycling. It was founded in 2012 by Sarai Snyder, a cyclist with the website Girl Bike Love. She aims to empower women and encourage women to ride bikes. The event takes place on the second Sunday in May, which is also Mother's Day in the United States, and it invites women and girls from all over the world to join group rides or organize their rides. Cyclofemme seeks to create a supportive and inclusive community of women who share a passion for cycling and to encourage more women to take up cycling as a form of transportation, recreation, and exercise.

Africa