All - Leep Calendar

Bullying Awareness and Prevention Week occurs in November in Canada each year. Bullying is a form of repeated, persistent and aggressive behavior directed at another intended to cause fear, distress, and harm another's body, feelings, self-esteem, or reputation. Bullying occurs when there is a real or perceived power imbalance and can occur in person, online, or through other modes of communication and interaction.

Africa

Nov

Bullying, Anti-bullying Week, Ntl. (UK): November 10-14 (est)

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Anti-bullying week is a United Kingdom school-based awareness campaign designed to assist schools in their approach to bullying, including: 1) Ensuring pupils know what to do if bullied 2) How to will deal with bullies 3) That everyone should take bullying seriously 4) The long-term impact bullying has on friendships, self-esteem, health, and well-being. Schools are encouraged to hold Anti-bullying assemblies. Family Lives, the sponsoring entity, provides PowerPoint presentations, videos, and flashcards to help get the discussion started. See their website to download resources. http://www.bullying.co.uk

Africa

Nov

Bullying, Odd Socks Day (UK): November 10 (est)

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Odd Socks Day in the United Kingdom (mismatched socks in America) is a fun day for children to show their support for ending bullying by wearing socks that don't match. Odd Socks Day falls on the first day of National Anti-bullying Week in the United Kingdom.

Africa

Nov

Bundt Day, Ntl.: November 15

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National Bundt Day honors the Bundt cake and the Bundt pan, a baking pan with a distinctive ring shape. Inspired by the Gugelhupf cake, a traditional European sweet, it is the inspiration behind the Bundt pan. Often made from cast aluminum, the Bundt pan reached its pinnacle in modern popularity during the 50s and 60s. From Nordic Ware, the origin of the Bundt pan: "In the 1950s, two German women approached Dave Dalquist with a cast-iron "bund" pan with a hole in the middle and asked if he could create several pans like it in aluminum for them to sell and raise money for their synagogue. Taking cue from the original pan, Dave modified the shape and created new beautiful lightweight version, which now is known as the Bundt pan. Today, the Bundt pan can be found in more than 70 million households around the world."

Africa

Nov

Buss und Bettag (DE)(C): November 19

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A day of repentance, fasting, and prayer, Buss und Bettag occurs on the final Wednesday before the last Sunday of the church year. Buss und Bettag is a public holiday in Saxony.

Africa

Nov

Butter Day, Ntl.: November 17

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Butter, a staple in kitchens worldwide, takes center stage on National Butter Day, an annual celebration of this creamy and delicious dairy product. This culinary holiday recognizes the versatility of butter and highlights its rich history and unique qualities that distinguish it from margarine. The history of butter can be traced back thousands of years, with its origins dating to ancient civilizations. Early evidence of butter production comes from regions such as Mesopotamia, where people first domesticated animals and discovered milk's value as a sustenance source. The process of churning milk to separate the cream and then agitating the cream to form butter is several millennia old. In Europe, particularly France and Ireland, butter became integral to culinary traditions. Its creamy texture, distinctive flavor, and adaptability in both savory and sweet dishes made it a prized ingredient. Butter also played a vital role in food preservation before refrigeration due to its ability to be easily stored and used to seal and protect perishable foods. Fast forward to the modern era, and butter remains a beloved component of many dishes worldwide. It adds richness and flavor to baked goods, elevates sauces and spreads, and serves as a delightful topping for vegetables and popcorn. BUTTER VERSUS MARGARINE One of the critical distinctions between butter and margarine lies in their ingredients and production processes. Butter is made from cream separated from milk and then churned until it reaches a semi-solid state. It is a natural product with a simple ingredient list: cream and, occasionally, salt. Margarine, on the other hand, was developed in the 19th century as a butter substitute. It begins with vegetable oils like soybean, palm, or sunflower. The oils undergo a hydrogenation process to solidify them, and various additives, including emulsifiers and artificial flavors, are often included to mimic the taste and texture of butter. Aside from the taste, one significant difference between butter and margarine is the fat content. Butter contains saturated fat, whereas most margarines contain unsaturated fats. This distinction has led to debates about the health implications of each. While margarine was initially marketed as a healthier alternative to butter due to its lower saturated fat content, concerns arose about the trans fats formed during the hydrogenation process. Trans fats have been linked to various health issues, leading many margarine manufacturers to reformulate their products to eliminate trans fats. Recently, interest in natural and minimally processed foods has been resurgent, leading some consumers to prefer butter over margarine for its taste, simplicity, and purity. However, dietary choices and health considerations are significant in the butter vs. margarine debate. National Butter Day serves as an occasion to appreciate the timeless appeal of butter and its role in culinary traditions worldwide. Whether used to create flaky pastries, savory sauces, or spread on warm bread, butter's rich history and enduring popularity make it a beloved ingredient in kitchens everywhere. This event began in 2021.

Africa

Nov

Button Day: November 16

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Button Day celebrates that indispensable addition to clothing, the button. Buttons originated in the Indus Valley, in what we now refer to as Pakistan, around 3000-2000 BC. The first buttons, made of shell or bone, were ornamental rather than functional, and they adorned garments like beads or broaches do today. Think about the costumes of ancient Rome, Greece, Persia, and even China you see in films. Ancient civilizations used ties, buckles, belts, pins, and thread to hold garments together—no buttons in buttonholes securing garments on those period pieces. I bet you never noticed that before, but now you will! Button me up! When did we start using buttons to fasten our clothes? In the 11th century. German tailors began using buttons with loops and then sewn holes in the fabric (buttonholes) to secure clothing for aristocrats, a revolutionary advancement in drapery allowing for a customized fit. The new technology and the more figure-flattering styles spread throughout Europe's upper classes, leading to the first Buttonmaker's Guild opening in France in 1250 AD. During the middle ages and into the Renaissance, buttons conveyed wealth. One could tell a person's social class by the number of buttons sewn into clothes and their quality. Most were custom-made, with each button representing a little piece of art formed of precious stones and metals. Less affluent people made buttons using molds and liquid metal or rescued them from discarded garments. Thieves and spies hollowed out buttons to smuggle gems and messages. With the inauguration of George Washington as the first president of the United States, he popularized the use of "political buttons," buttons styled to showcase a person's political party. The standard button of today includes four holes and is flat and round, a mass-produced style beginning in the 1840s. Automation during the industrial age made the production of buttons inexpensive. Why do men's and women's shirts have buttons on different sides? That goes back to the aristocracy. Since buttons were used by the wealthy, and the wealthy had servants and staff, women's buttons face left, so they were easier for the maid or another person to undo or do. Men generally self-dressed, so their buttons are right-facing, making them easier to close and open without assistance.

Africa

Nov

Calzone Day, Ntl.: November 1

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Calzone Day, created in 2016 by Minsky's Pizza, celebrates the Neopolitan street food, the calzone. The calzone, a staple of Italian cuisine known for its crescent shape and delicious fillings, has a history as rich and varied as its ingredients. Originating in Naples, Italy, during the 18th century, the calzone began as a street food, offering a convenient and tasty meal for workers and busy Neapolitans on the go. Calzone, a folded pizza, means 'trouser leg' or 'stocking' in Italian. The concept is said to have been born from needing a more portable yet hearty meal. Workers and laborers could easily carry and eat this enclosed pizza without needing plates or utensils, making it an ideal on-the-go lunch. The traditional Neapolitan calzone is a simple yet flavorful creation. Typically, calzones are stuffed with ingredients like ricotta cheese, salami, ham, or vegetables and then baked in a wood-fired oven, similar to pizza. The crust is pizza dough, which puffs up during baking, creating a light and crispy crust. As Italian immigrants spread worldwide, they brought their culinary traditions, including the calzone. The calzone's fillings and cooking methods began to vary in different regions, reflecting local tastes and ingredients. For instance, calzones are often larger in the United States, filled with mozzarella cheese, and served with marinara sauce for dipping. Over time, the calzone has become a beloved dish in Italian-American cuisine and worldwide, with endless variations. Some versions are fried rather than baked, and fillings can range from various types of meat to a wide array of vegetables and cheeses. Today, calzones are a popular menu item in pizzerias and Italian restaurants globally. Their versatility, portability, and rich, savory fillings have made them a favorite among traditionalists and those seeking a twist on the classic pizza experience.

Africa

Nov

Candy Day, Ntl.: November 4*

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National Candy Day in November is one of several candy days each year. This event plays on Halloween and the candy received during trick-or-treating; it is a day to trade candy and eat those you like best. Happy National Candy Day!

Africa

Nov

Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day: November 7

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Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day, observed annually on November 7th, is dedicated to raising awareness about lymphoma in dogs, a common cancer affecting our canine companions. Terry Simons began working on a day devoted to education and support when his dog Reveille was diagnosed with the disease in 2011. Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day, the result of his efforts, aims to educate pet owners about the disease, its symptoms, treatment options, and the importance of early detection. Lymphoma in dogs is a type of cancer that originates in the lymphocytes, a white blood cell that is an integral part of the immune system. This cancer can affect any dog breed at any age, though certain breeds are more predisposed. The disease often manifests in swollen lymph nodes, weight loss, and decreased appetite, among other symptoms. Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day sheds light on this prevalent disease, offering crucial information to dog owners and advocating for research and advances in veterinary oncology. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of regular veterinary check-ups for early detection and the potential for improved outcomes with timely treatment. Treatment for canine lymphoma has evolved, with chemotherapy being the most common and practical approach. The goal of therapy is often to achieve remission and maintain a good quality of life for the dog. Veterinarians and oncologists are critical in providing treatment and supporting pet owners. In addition to promoting awareness about canine lymphoma, this day also highlights the advancements in veterinary medicine and the ongoing need for research in animal health. It underscores the bond between pets and their owners and the importance of ensuring the health and well-being of our animal companions. In essence, Canine Lymphoma Awareness Day is a vital observance that brings attention to a significant health issue in dogs, promoting education, support, and research. It's a day for pet owners, veterinarians, and animal lovers to unite in the fight against canine lymphoma and advocate for the health and happiness of our beloved pets.

Africa

Nov

Cappuccino Day: November 8

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Cappuccino Day celebrates the coffee drink. The cappuccino, known for its rich espresso, hot milk, and frothy milk foam, has a history that spans centuries and crosses cultures. This popular beverage originated in Italy and has evolved over time into the iconic coffee experience enjoyed worldwide today. Cappuccino dates back to the 17th century, coinciding with the introduction of coffee in Europe. The name "cappuccino" is thought to have been inspired by the Capuchin friars, an order of monks known for their brown robes. The color of the espresso mixed with frothed milk resembled the Capuchin robe, leading to the moniker. However, the modern version of the cappuccino developed in the 20th century with the invention of the espresso machine. In the early 1900s, espresso machines appeared in Italian coffee bars, enabling baristas to make a more robust, more concentrated coffee. The cappuccino as we know it began to take shape in the 1930s with the addition of steamed milk and milk foam to espresso. The post-World War II era saw significant advancements in espresso machine technology, particularly with machines capable of producing a higher pressure, leading to a finer espresso and a creamier foam, essential elements of today's cappuccino. The drink started gaining popularity outside Italy, especially in other parts of Europe and the United States. The cappuccino's popularity surged in the latter part of the 20th century with the rise of specialty coffee culture. Coffee shops and cafes, particularly in the United States and Europe, began to feature cappuccinos as a menu staple, often experimenting with various sizes, types of milk, and even flavor additions. Today, cappuccino is lauded for its balance of flavors and textures: the espresso's richness, the milk's creaminess, and the foam's lightness. It is often enjoyed in the morning, especially in Italy, but has become a coffee favorite at any time of day worldwide.

Africa

Nov

Carbonated Beverage with Caffeine Day, Ntl.: November 19

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National Carbonated Beverage with Caffeine Day is an unofficial event with no sponsor aimed at reminding people to reduce their caffeine intake by switching from colas and high-caffeine beverages to alternatives like water.

Africa

Nov

Cash Back Day: November 6

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National Cash Back Day, initiated in 2019 by the digital coupon platform RetailMeNot, seeks to boost consumer savings through cashback offers. Celebrated annually on the first Thursday of November, this day allows shoppers to earn significant cashback on purchases made at various participating retailers. RetailMeNot partners with numerous well-known stores and brands, spanning categories such as fashion, electronics, beauty, and home goods, to bring shoppers these deals. Consumers can access the cashback offers throughout the promotion through RetailMeNot's website or app. The process typically involves: Browsing the listed deals. Purchasing through the provided links. Receiving a percentage of their spending as cashback credited to the users' RetailMeNot accounts, which they can later transfer to a bank account or redeem as gift cards. National Cash Back Day has quickly gained popularity among savvy shoppers looking for extra savings, especially as it precedes other major shopping events like Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Retailers also benefit, as the event drives traffic and sales, helping them clear inventory and hit sales targets. RetailMeNot heavily promotes National Cash Back Day through various channels, including social media, email marketing, and partnerships with influencers and bloggers. This marketing push drives awareness and participation and positions RetailMeNot as a critical player in online deals and discounts. In essence, National Cash Back Day is a win-win for both consumers and retailers. Shoppers can earn back a portion of their spending, while retailers enjoy increased sales. As the retail landscape continues to evolve with a strong emphasis on online shopping, events like National Cash Back Day are becoming an integral part of the annual retail calendar.

Africa

Nov

Cashew Day, Ntl.: November 23

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National Cashew Day celebrates the sweet nut native to Brazil. Still, it could quickly become a tour-de-force with human rights advocates as in 2011, Human Rights Watch published a blistering report on the plight of cashew laborers in Vietnam. Based upon reporting as late as October 2022, the crisis continues. The largest supplier of cashews in the world is Vietnam. The country has been scrutinized for using forced labor to harvest cashew crops, disguising the operation as drug treatment facilities and the workers as patients. According to Human Rights Watch, cashew "production occurs in so-called drug 'treatment' centers. Daily, Forty thousand drug users are detained in Vietnam, and forced labor is their main "treatment." People trying to recover from drug abuse are used as forced labor to harvest cashew crops. Human Rights Watch talked to men and women who previously interned inside these drug "treatment" centers, some when they were children. They report grueling work, being shocked with electrical batons, beaten by staff, and held for months in locked punishment rooms. A month's work might net them between 75 cents and $7.50 after deductions for food, lodging, and management fees. After being forced to process cashews, many return home battered, in poor health, and indebted, leaving the centers owing officials additional expenses for their "treatment." The cashew continues to be a favorite nut for its sweet flavor. Human rights advocates ask that on National Cashew Day, consumers find out where their cashews are coming from and help bring awareness to the human cost of this delicious nut.

Africa

Nov

Celebrate Your Unique Talent Day: November 24

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Shannon Hurd's unique talent is that she can throw a football more accurately than any man or professional football player. If she were a man, she'd probably be a multi-millionaire playing for an NFL team. She created this day so others could share their unique talents with friends. Celebrate Your Unique Talent Day first ran in 2005.

Africa