All - Leep Calendar

CBD is a non-intoxicating cannabinoid extracted from the hemp plant. For centuries it has been used in holistic medicine and wellness applications. National CBD Day seeks to raise awareness about this extract and its health benefits. This event began in 2018.

Africa

Aug

Chauvin Day (UK)(1790): August 15

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Chauvin Day commemorates the life of Nicolas Chauvin, a legendary soldier who served under Napoleon Bonaparte. Nicolas Chauvin is believed to have been born in Roquefort, France, on August 15, 1790. He became a soldier at 18. Disfigured due to his war wounds (he was injured 17 times), Chauvin was awarded a Sabre of Honor and a 200 francs pension. Known for his zealous loyalty to Bonaparte, he became a subject of ridicule when Bonaparte lost his power and influence. The word "chauvinism" is derived from his name, and its original meaning of extreme patriotism and sycophancy fell away. Today, chauvinism or chauvinist refers to the behavior of men who believe they are superior and above women.

Africa

Aug

Check the Chip Day, Ntl.: August 15

06:20 AM | -

Microchips significantly increase the chances that you'll get your pet back if he/she is lost or stolen, but a microchip only works if its registration information is accurate. To remind pet owners to have their pets microchipped and to keep the registration information up-to-date, AVMA and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) joined together to create "Check the Chip Day." With support from HomeAgain, we've been able to develop additional materials to promote the event. Many databases allow you to register your pet's microchip. Still, the one that counts – the one that animal shelters and veterinarians will search – is the database maintained by the manufacturer of your pet's microchip, http://www.petmicrochiplookup.org. AAHA's Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool is linked to the registries of most microchip manufacturers and allows a quick database search of any microchip made by these manufacturers. In addition, several public microchip registries have also been linked to the AAHA Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool to make it easier to find a microchip's registration.

Africa

Aug

Cheerleading Safety Month: August

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Three Cheers for Cheerleading Safety Month Cheerleading Safety Month, initially observed in March, has been moved to August to align with the beginning of the school year and the start of many cheerleading programs. This shift in timing is strategic, aiming to emphasize safety measures at the outset of cheerleading training and routines when athletes return to or start their cheer activities. The month focuses on educating cheerleaders, coaches, parents, and school officials about the importance of safe cheerleading practices. Essential safety measures include: Proper Training: Ensuring cheerleaders receive training from qualified instructors, focusing on fundamental skills before progressing to more advanced techniques. Appropriate Supervision: Coaches and trainers should be present to supervise all practice sessions and performances. Use of Safety Gear: Utilizing mats and other protective equipment during practice, especially when learning new stunts or routines. Adherence to Guidelines: Following established safety and cheerleading protocols, including age-appropriate stunts and maneuvers. Physical Fitness: Maintaining physical conditioning and flexibility to reduce the risk of injuries. Injury Awareness and Response: Recognizing the signs of injuries and planning for prompt and appropriate response. Cheerleading has grown significantly in popularity in the United States and worldwide. It is recognized not only as a supportive activity at sports events but also as a competitive sport in its own right, featuring complex acrobatic stunts, tumbling, and dance elements. This evolution has increased the athleticism and risk, making safety an even more critical concern. Cheerleading dates back to the late 19th century in the United States. It began as a male-dominated activity at Princeton University in 1884, with the first organized yell during a football game. Women started participating in cheerleading during World War II and eventually became the majority. Over time, cheerleading evolved from leading cheers at sports games to include more gymnastic and competitive aspects. Cheerleading Safety Month is crucial in highlighting the importance of safety in this evolving and dynamic sport. It reminds us of the need for continuous education, proper training, and adherence to safety protocols to ensure the well-being of these athletes.

Africa

Aug

Cherry Popsicle Day: August 26

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Cherry Popsicle Day is one of hundreds of food holidays with no sponsor, and the best way to celebrate is to eat a cherry popsicle.

Africa

Aug

Cherry Turnover Day: August 28

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Cherry Turnover Day celebrates the pastry, the cherry turnover. A turnover is a baked pastry fashioned in a triangle stuffed with a sweet or savory filling. The turnover has been around since Roman times and could be considered the first portable sandwich. In ancient times, turnovers were usually filled with meats. Types of turnovers from around the world whose names you may be familiar with include Calzones, Samosas, Pierogies, Dim Sum, Empanadas, and Pastelitos. Seventy-five percent of the cherries sold in the United States are grown in Michigan.

Africa

Aug

Child Support Awareness Month: August

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CHILD SUPPORT AWARENESS MONTH: ADVOCATING FOR FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY. August marks Child Support Awareness Month in the United States, an initiative designed to raise awareness about the importance of child support and promote children's well-being. The Office of Child Support Enforcement (OCSE), a U.S. Department of Health and Human Services division, champions the event. The month-long campaign seeks to educate the public about child support laws, emphasize the importance of parental financial responsibility, and encourage cooperation between parents and child support agencies. Child Support Awareness Month is a response to the real challenges parents face in meeting their support obligations. Economic hardships, unemployment, and legal complexities can make providing consistent support a daunting task for some parents. The campaign advocates for programs and services that assist parents in overcoming these barriers, such as job training, employment services, and legal aid. WHY CHILD SUPPORT? Child support is crucial because it ensures that children receive the financial resources they need for their health, education, and well-being. Adequate child support contributes to a child's ability to thrive by providing necessities such as food, clothing, shelter, and medical and educational expenses. Child Support Awareness Month aims to highlight these benefits and underscore the positive impact that timely and consistent child support payments have on children's lives. HOW CHILD SUPPORT IS DETERMINED Child support is typically determined based on state guidelines that consider various factors, including the income of both parents, the needs of the child, and the amount of time each parent spends with the child. Courts use these guidelines to establish a fair and equitable support amount that reflects both parents' financial capabilities and the child's best interests. Statistics show that a higher percentage of men than women are required to pay child support. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 85% of custodial parents who receive child support are mothers, while around 15% are fathers. This disparity reflects traditional custody arrangements, where mothers are more often the primary custodians. GAY MARRIAGE AND CHILD SUPPORT With the legalization of gay marriage, child support has indeed become an issue in gay households. Same-sex couples with children who subsequently divorce or separate face the same child support obligations as heterosexual couples. The principles of determining child support remain consistent, focusing on the child's best interests and the financial responsibilities of both parents. As with any family structure, ensuring that children in same-sex households receive adequate support is vital for their well-being. HISTORY OF CHILD SUPPORT The concept of child support has a rich and evolving history, reflecting changes in societal attitudes toward family, responsibility, and the welfare of children. Here is a brief overview of its historical evolution, a testament to the progress made in this crucial area. ANTIQUITY The idea of supporting one's offspring originate with ancient civilizations. For instance, Roman law required fathers to help their children financially. Similar principles existed in other ancient cultures, where familial obligations were deeply rooted in societal norms. MEDIEVAL PERIOD ENGLAND—During the medieval period, the legal principle of parens patriae ("parent of the nation") began to take shape. The Crown had a duty to protect children and others who could not care for themselves. This concept laid the groundwork for future child welfare laws. 19TH CENTURY POOR LAWS— During the 17th and 18th centuries, England's Poor Laws required that fathers of illegitimate children provide financial support to prevent the child from becoming a burden on the community. These laws influenced the early American colonies. UNITED STATES—English common law heavily influenced early American child support laws. However, during the 19th century, as divorce became more common, the need for structured child support systems grew. Initial laws were rudimentary and often left to the discretion of the courts. 20TH CENTURY UNIFORM RECIPROCAL ENFORCEMENT OF THE SUPPORT ACT (URESA)—In 1950, the U.S. passed URESA to address child support enforcement issues across state lines. This significant step ensured that non-custodial parents could not evade their obligations by moving to another state. SOCIAL SECURITY ACT AMENDMENTS (1975)—Title IV-D of the Social Security Act was amended to establish the federal Office of Child Support Enforcement (OCSE), marking a significant shift in policy by emphasizing the enforcement of support orders and the establishment of paternity. LATE 20TH CENTURY REFORMS 1980s—1990s—Various reforms improved the efficiency of child support collection. These included wage garnishment, tax refund interception, and the revocation of professional licenses for non-payment. PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY AND WORK OPPORTUNITY RECONCILIATION ACT (1996)—As part of welfare reform, this act emphasized child support enforcement and required states to create centralized registries for child support orders. 21ST CENTURY TECHNOLOGICAL IMPROVEMENTS—The internet's advent and data sharing improvements have streamlined tracking and collecting child support. Electronic payment systems and databases have made it easier to enforce child support orders. INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS— Efforts address international child support issues, including the Hague Convention on the International Recovery of Child Support and Other Forms of Family Maintenance, which the U.S. ratified in 2007. CONTEMPORARY ISSUES AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS EQUALITY AND FAIRNESS—As societal norms continue to evolve, so does the approach to child support. Issues such as the inclusion of same-sex couples, the equitable calculation of support payments, and the provision of support services for non-custodial parents remain central to ongoing policy discussions. ECONOMIC CHALLENGES—The economic hardships brought about by events such as the COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted the need for flexible and supportive child support systems that can adapt to changing circumstances. Ongoing efforts continue to refine and improve the system to serve the needs of children and families better. CHILD SUPPORT IN EASTERN VS WESTERN CULTURES The approaches to child support in Eastern and Western cultures reflect broader cultural, legal, and societal differences. Broadly speaking, Eastern cultures focus on the "we," or communal interests, whereas Western cultures focus more on the "me" or the individual's needs and circumstances. International law and the challenges of a global society are blending these two approaches. Here is a comparative analysis of how these regions handle child support: WESTERN CULTURES AND CHILD SUPPORT Europe, Russia, Oceana North America, with some crossover in Central and South America LEGAL FRAMEWORK FORMAL LEGAL SYSTEMS—Western countries, particularly those in Europe and North America, typically have well-established legal frameworks governing child support. These systems often involve detailed legislation and formal court processes to establish, enforce, and modify child support orders. GOVERNMENT AGENCIES—In the U.S., for example, the Office of Child Support Enforcement (OCSE) oversees the implementation of child support laws, ensuring compliance through mechanisms like wage garnishment and tax refund interceptions. WESTERN CULTURAL ATTITUDES SHAPING POLICY INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITY—Western cultures often emphasize personal responsibility and the legal obligation of both parents to support their children, regardless of marital status or financial situation. SUPPORT MECHANISMS—A solid institutional support system, including legal aid, child support enforcement agencies, and social services, assists custodial parents in securing support. CHALLENGES ENFORCEMENT ACROSS JURISDICTIONS— Ensuring compliance can be complex, especially involving parents in different states or countries. NON-TRADITIONAL FAMILIES—Adapting child support laws to accommodate diverse family structures, including same-sex couples and cohabiting parents, is an ongoing process. EASTERN CULTURES AND CHILD SUPPORT Middle East, Asia and Africa, with some crossover to Central and South America. LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR CHILD SUPPORT VARIED SYSTEMS—In many Eastern countries, legal systems regarding child support can be less formalized than Western counterparts. The extent of legal infrastructure and enforcement mechanisms varies widely across countries. TRADITIONAL PRACTICES—In some regions, child support might be governed more by customary practices, religious texts or tribunals, and community norms than formal legal systems. EASTERN CULTURAL ATTITUDES FAMILY-CENTRIC APPROACH—Eastern cultures often emphasize extended family responsibility, where the broader family network, including grandparents and other relatives, may contribute to child-rearing and financial support. COLLECTIVE RESPONSIBILITY—Eastern cultures strongly focus on collective familial support, where the child's well-being is considered a shared responsibility among relatives rather than just the parents. EASTERN CULTURE CHILD SUPPORT CHALLENGES ENFORCEMENT—Legal enforcement of child support can be challenging in places where formal systems are less robust. Social stigma often suffices in cultures where patriarchy and family lineage are essential. Cultural norms may also discourage formal legal action. ECONOMIC FACTORS—Economic disparities and lack of access to formal legal assistance can impede the ability of custodial parents to secure adequate support. For example: JAPAN LEGAL AND CULTURE BLEND—Japan has formal child support laws, but enforcement can be inconsistent. Cultural expectations often strongly emphasize family harmony, which can affect formal legal proceedings. CHINA RECENT LEGAL REFORMS—China's legal framework for child support has been evolving, with recent reforms to strengthen the enforcement of support orders. However, traditional family structures and reliance on extended family support remain influential. INDIA DIVERSE PRACTICES—India's approach varies significantly across its regions. While formal laws exist, many child support issues can be resolved through informal community or familial arrangements. The legal process can be lengthy and complex, often influenced by socio-economic factors. CONCLUSION Child Support Awareness Month underscores the importance of financial responsibility and the collective effort needed to support children's growth and development. It reminds us that child support is not just a legal obligation but a vital contribution to the future of the nation's children.

Africa

Aug

Childfree Day, Intl.: August 1

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Created in 1973 by the National Alliance for Optional Parenthood, International Childfree Day is a celebration of adults who choose not to have children and their unique contributions to society.

Africa

Aug

Children's Eye Health and Safety Month: August

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Each August, Prevent Blindness America focuses on children's eye health and safety. Adults and children can easily protect their eyes by wearing the proper sunglasses and a brimmed hat. Children are more susceptible to UV damage than adults because they spend more time outside than adults. Here are some things parents can do to help protect children's eyes. Only purchase sunglasses with UV protection. Ensure the sunglasses fit the child's face and shield the eyes from all angles. Choose lenses that are impact-resistant and made of polycarbonate, never glass, unless prescribed by a doctor. Always insist that children wear a brimmed hat in conjunction with their sunglasses. Teaching children to protect their eyes is an essential early step toward a lifetime of healthy vision.

Africa

Aug

Children's Vision and Learning Month: August

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Children's eyes change as they grow. With 80% of learning requiring sight, Children's Vision and Learning Month was established in August to encourage parents to have their children's vision checked before the new year begins.

Africa

Aug

Chinese Valentine's Day, Qixi Qingren Jie (CN): August 19

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Qixi Qingren Jie, Chinese Valentines Day or Double Seven Day always on the 7th Day of the 7th month of the Chinese calendar; this festival originated during the Han Dynasty (206 BC-220AD). Chinese Valentines Day, or the Qixi Festival, celebrates the union of two star-crossed lovers in Chinese mythology who, through the help of magpies creating a bridge between them, now form the Milky Way in the stars. In China, this is a festival for young girls and newlywed couples, and it ultimately symbolizes sexual happiness and marital devotion.

Africa

Aug

Chocolate Chip Cookie Day, Ntl.: August 4

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National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day celebrates chocolate chip cookies. Ruth Graves Wakefield created chocolate chip cookies in Massachusetts in 1938. She broke a Nestle chocolate bar into pieces and added the chips to her cookie recipe. Because of the recipe's popularity, Nestle agreed to print the recipe on the back of the chocolate bar. By 1940, Nestle began selling chocolate chip packs.

Africa

Aug

Chocolate Pecan Pie Day, Ntl.: August 20

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Chocolate Pecan Pie Day is a celebration of pecan pie drizzled in chocolate. Chocolate Pecan Pie Day is an unofficial event with no sponsor.

Africa

Aug

Chop Suey Day, Ntl.: August 29

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Chop Suey (translation: assorted pieces) may well be the first Asian-American dish. It is rumored to have been created in 1896 to satisfy the tastes of both Chinese and American diplomats. There is no way to prove that, but Chop Suey is a great way to use leftovers and extend their life. National Chop Suey Day is an unofficial event with no sponsor.

Africa

Aug

Civility Month, Ntl.: August

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NATIONAL CIVILITY MONTH: PROMOTING RESPECT AND COURTESY Every August, the United States observes National Civility Month, a campaign that fosters respect, courtesy, and polite behavior in all aspects of life. The National Civility Center, a nonprofit organization that promotes civility and positive interactions within communities and workplaces, champions the event. National Civility Month aims to raise awareness about the importance of civil behavior and encourage individuals and organizations to adopt practices that enhance mutual respect and understanding. The observance seeks to remind people of the fundamental principles of civility, which include treating others with kindness, listening actively, and engaging in respectful dialogue. WHAT IS CIVILITY? At its core, civility is about showing respect for others and adhering to societal norms of polite behavior. It involves recognizing the humanity in others, even in the face of disagreements, and striving to create a harmonious environment through considerate actions and words. Civility is not just about manners; it encompasses a broader commitment to constructive and respectful interactions. Improving one's civility can be achieved through several practical steps. Individuals can start by practicing active listening, which involves giving full attention to the speaker and responding thoughtfully. Showing appreciation and gratitude, using polite language, and being mindful of others' feelings is vital. Additionally, individuals can benefit from self-reflection and a conscious effort to understand and respect diverse perspectives. The positive outcomes of these practices, such as improved relationships and a more harmonious environment, can be truly inspiring and motivating. WHY IS CIVILITY IMPORTANT IN THE WORKPLACE? Civility is paramount in the workplace, which fosters a positive and productive environment. Respectful workplace interactions can lead to better teamwork, higher employee morale, and increased job satisfaction. Civility in the workplace helps prevent conflicts, reduces stress, and creates an atmosphere where employees feel valued and supported. Moreover, it enhances communication and collaboration, which is essential for achieving organizational goals. National Civility Month underscores the significance of maintaining respectful and courteous behavior in all settings, from personal relationships to professional environments. The National Civility Center encourages organizations to participate by organizing workshops, discussions, and activities that promote civil behavior. By emphasizing the importance of civility, the campaign hopes to create a more respectful and harmonious society. This call to action for organizations can make the audience feel responsible and engaged in the promotion of civility. CONTINUE As the month-long observance continues to gain traction, it serves as a reminder of the positive impact of civility on individuals and communities. National Civility Month highlights the need for a collective effort to cultivate a culture of respect and courtesy, ultimately contributing to a more compassionate and understanding world. This emphasis on collective action can make the audience feel united and part of a larger cause.

Africa