All - Leep Calendar

International Toothache Day marks the martyrdom of Saint Apollonia, the patron saint of Dentistry, in 249 AD. Apollonia was a young virgin, a Christian woman, who was killed in a pogrom against Christians in Egypt. Part of her torture included having all her teeth pulled out, which is why she is associated with dentistry. These were the early days of Christianity, nearly four hundred years before Islam and a hundred years before Constantine would convert the entire Roman empire to Christianity. It was a dangerous time to be Christian, and they were hated and hunted by the Hebrews and Romans. This particular pogrom against the Christians began due to an Egyptian poet's prophesying that great harm was to come to the people of Alexandria. The cause, he said, would be the Christians, and therefore, the Christians needed to be eliminated. At the time of Apollonia, living to the age of 50 was considered old. By the time most people died, many had lost their teeth. Today with modern toothpaste and brushes, not to mention dental care, most of us retain our teeth into old age. Today is a day to reflect on dental health's importance, remember Apollonia's sacrifice, and the cost of judging others by their faith. And for those of faith, it is a day to thank God for every tooth we have.

Africa

Feb

Tootsie Roll Day, Ntl.(1896): February 23

06:20 AM | -

Tootsie Roll Day, celebrated annually, pays homage to one of America's most iconic and enduring candies – the Tootsie Roll. This day is a celebration of the candy itself and a recognition of its unique place in American culture and confectionery history. The Tootsie Roll was invented in 1907 by Leo Hirshfield, an Austrian immigrant who started his candy business in a small shop in New York City. Hirshfield named the candy after his daughter, whose nickname was "Tootsie." The Tootsie Roll was one of the first individually wrapped penny candies; its small size, affordability, and non-perishable nature contributed to its popularity. What sets Tootsie Rolls apart is their unique texture and flavor. Made from a blend of cocoa and other ingredients, Tootsie Rolls have a chewy, taffy-like consistency and a chocolatey taste that has appealed to generations of candy lovers. Unlike traditional chocolate, Tootsie Rolls do not melt quickly, which made them a popular choice for sending to soldiers during World War II, further ingraining them in American culture. Tootsie Roll Day celebrates the enduring appeal of this simple yet beloved candy. It's a day for enthusiasts to enjoy Tootsie Rolls and reminisce about their childhood memories. Schools and community groups often organize events or activities centered around Tootsie Rolls, such as baking Tootsie Roll-themed treats or having Tootsie Roll guessing games. Tootsie Rolls' longevity in the American market results from effective marketing, adaptability to changing consumer tastes, and the nostalgic connection they evoke in many Americans. They have become a staple in parades, Halloween trick-or-treat bags, and at grandmother's houses across the country. Tootsie Roll Day is more than just a celebration of candy; it's a nod to a piece of Americana, representing innovations in confectionery and the power of a simple treat to evoke fond memories across generations.

Africa

Feb

Tortellini Day, Ntl.: February 13

06:20 AM | -

Tortellini Day celebrates the pasta dumpling in the shape of a naval. It is usually stuffed with cheese, meats, and vegetables and can be eaten alone, in a broth or red or white sauce. It is rumored to have been inspired by the daughter of Pope Alexander VI, Lucrezia Borgia’s (1480-1519) naval. The first known mention of tortellini occurred during the 16th century.

Africa

Feb

Tortilla Chip Day, Ntl.: February 24

06:20 AM | -

National Tortilla Chip Day celebrates the tortilla chip. November 29, 1907, is the day the Tortilla Chips inventor Rebecca Webb-Carranza was born in Durango, Mexico. Her family immigrated to the United States when she was a child. Carranza married in 1931, and the family ran a Mexican delicatessen in Los Angeles specializing in homemade tortillas. Sometime in the early 1940s, the Carranza family held a party, and she needed appetizers. Resourceful, Carranza decided rather than throw out the scrapings from the tortillas in their factory, she cut the scraps into wedges, fried them, and served them at a party. The tortilla chips were a hit with her family and friends. Soon she began selling the chips for ten cents a bowl out of the family shop. Film crews and others in the entertainment industry were regular customers, and word of the new snack spread. The tortilla chip was born. Though she created the tortilla chip and the business expanded in 1967, the family was forced to close their chip factory in Long Beach, California. Larger corporations perceived the potential in the chip and were able to outproduce the family-owned business at a lower cost, driving them out of business. Carranza had to work into her 80s, bagging groceries and assisting with the US census. Though the creator of the market and the tortilla chip, she died poor in money but rich in family. She left behind 12 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. In the mid-1990s, Carranza was among the recipients of the Golden Tortilla, an award created to honor Mexican food industry innovators by the Azteca Milling company. Rebecca Webb-Carranza died on January 19, 2006, at 98. I cannot figure out if February 24 is the anniversary of the party or something else; it's not the birthday or death of its inventor. No patent or copyright is present today, so why National Tortilla Chip Day falls on this day is unknown.

Africa

Feb

Total Defense Day (SG)(1942): February 15

06:20 AM | -

Total Defense Day, observed annually on February 15 in Singapore, marks a pivotal moment in the nation's history. This day commemorates the fall of Singapore to Japanese forces during World War II in 1942 and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of national resilience and preparedness. The genesis of Total Defense Day lies in the aftermath of one of the most significant events in Singapore's history: the surrender of the British-led forces to the Japanese on February 15, 1942, during World War II. This surrender, resulting in a three-and-a-half-year Japanese occupation, was a profound shock to Singaporeans and exposed vulnerabilities in relying solely on military defense. In response to these historical lessons, Singapore established Total Defense Day in 1984 to emphasize the comprehensive approach necessary for national security and stability. Total defense involves five key aspects: Military Defense, Civil Defense, Economic Defense, Social Defense, and Psychological Defense. Each aspect highlights a different area of national resilience: MILITARY DEFENSE—stresses the importance of a strong military to deter aggression. CIVIL DEFENSE— prepares citizens to respond effectively to emergencies and disasters. ECONOMIC DEFENSE—underscores the need for a robust economy to support national needs during crises. SOCIAL DEFENSE—promotes social cohesion and harmony among Singapore's diverse population. PSYCHOLOGICAL DEFENSE—involves building a sense of national identity and the resolve to overcome challenges. Total Defense Day involves various activities and events across Singapore to educate and remind citizens of their role in national defense. Schools and public institutions conduct emergency drills, exhibitions, and public education campaigns. These activities aim to foster a collective sense of responsibility and preparedness among Singaporeans, reinforcing that defense is not just the government's task but a shared duty. The significance of Total Defense Day extends beyond commemorating a historical event. It is a constant reminder of small nations' vulnerabilities and the multi-faceted approach required to maintain sovereignty and national resilience. By instilling these principles in its citizens, Singapore aims to ensure the country is well-equipped to handle future threats or crises, drawing strength from its unity and collective resolve.

Africa

Feb

Tourism Resilience Day, Global: February 17

06:20 AM | -

Resilient tourism plays a crucial role in the economic development of many countries, particularly in developing nations, small island developing states, Africa, and middle-income countries. It serves as a significant source of income, foreign currency, tax revenue, and employment. Sustainable tourism, including ecotourism, has the potential to contribute to all three dimensions of sustainable development and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It can foster economic growth, alleviate poverty, create employment opportunities, promote sustainable consumption and production patterns, and support the sustainable use of oceans and marine resources. Sustainable tourism also has broader societal benefits, such as promoting local culture, improving quality of life, empowering women, young people, indigenous communities, and rural populations. It can contribute to rural development, enhance living conditions, and support small-holder farmers. By embracing sustainable and resilient tourism practices, countries can achieve sustained and inclusive economic growth, social development, financial inclusion, environmental protection, and poverty eradication. This includes the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity and natural resources, as well as promoting investment and entrepreneurship in sustainable tourism. In recognition of the importance of resilient tourism, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed Global Tourism Resilience Day on February 17 through resolution A/RES/77/269. This day highlights the need to foster resilient tourism development to address shocks and emergencies that affect the tourism sector. It calls for the development of national strategies for rehabilitation after disruptions, emphasizing public-private cooperation and diversification of activities and products. Overall, resilient tourism is essential for sustainable development, economic stability, and the protection of natural and cultural heritage. It encourages countries to invest in sustainable practices, cooperate in times of crisis, and adapt to changing circumstances to ensure a more resilient and sustainable tourism sector.

Africa

Feb

Trade Show Image Week, Build a Better: February 16-22

06:20 AM | -

Build a Better Trade Show Image Week seeks to educate companies who use Trade Shows within their marketing mix, best practices, and how to increase the effectiveness of their trade show booths.

Africa

Feb

Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, (US/MX)(1848): February 2

06:20 AM | -

The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, signed on February 2, 1848, is a pivotal document in North American history, marking the end of the Mexican-American War. This treaty had significant and lasting implications, particularly for the territorial boundaries of the United States and Mexico. The treaty carries the name of Villa de Guadalupe Hidalgo, where the two nations signed it. This historic village is now a neighborhood of Mexico City. The Mexican-American War, which began in 1846, was primarily a conflict over territorial disputes following the 1845 U.S. annexation of Texas, which Mexico still considered its territory. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo came about after nearly two years of fighting and with American forces occupying Mexico City, Under the treaty's terms, Mexico ceded most of its northern territories to the United States, including present-day California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, and parts of Colorado, Wyoming, New Mexico, and Texas. In return, the United States agreed to pay Mexico $15 million and assume $3.25 million in debts owed by Mexico to American citizens. The treaty also established the Rio Grande as the border between Texas and Mexico. The impact of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo is profound and enduring. It resulted in the United States expanding its territory by approximately one-third, shaping the nation's geographical and cultural landscape. The acquisition of these territories played a crucial role in the U.S.'s development into a continental power and its subsequent economic and political growth. For Mexico, the treaty marked a significant loss of land and resources, which had lasting effects on its national development and relations with the United States. The treaty also had a substantial impact on the populations living in the ceded territories, primarily Hispanic and Indigenous communities, whose rights and claims to land were often overlooked or undermined in the subsequent years. In modern times, the legacy of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo continues to influence U.S.-Mexico relations, issues of border management, and the cultural and demographic makeup of the southwestern United States. The histories and communities of this region are deeply intertwined with the outcomes of the treaty, reflecting a shared and complex past that continues to shape identities and politics in the area. Overall, the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo is a significant historical agreement with lasting effects on the geopolitical, cultural, and social landscapes of the United States and Mexico. Its legacy is a reminder of the profound impact of territorial changes and the importance of addressing the needs and rights of all affected populations.

Africa

Feb

Tu B'Shvat (J): February 12/13

06:20 AM | -

Tu B'Shvat in Judaism is the "New Year of Trees." The tree's symbolism is fundamental in Judaism, which sees trees as a metaphor for people, divided into three parts: roots, then the trunk, branches, and leaves, and finally, fruit. Each portion of the tree has a meaning that corresponds to people's lives, struggles, and goals.

Africa

Feb

Tug of War Day: February 19

06:20 AM | -

Tug-of-war is an unofficial day celebrating the favored sport. Tug-of-war, a competitive team sport known for its simplicity and physical demand, involves two teams pulling on opposite ends of a rope to bring the rope a certain distance in one direction against the force of the opposing team's pull. The origins of tug-of-war are ancient and widespread, with evidence of the game's existence in various cultures around the world. The sport's history traces to ceremonies and rituals in ancient civilizations, including Egypt, China, and Greece. In these early forms, tug-of-war wasn't just a game but often had religious and ceremonial significance, symbolizing the struggles of the forces of good and evil. In ancient Greece, tug-of-war was a popular form of physical training for athletes. Similarly, in China, it was a training exercise for warriors during the Tang Dynasty. The rope in ancient Chinese tug-of-war was often a flexible vine, and the sport demonstrated teamwork and physical strength. The modern sport of tug-of-war began to take shape in the 19th century. During this time, the rules were standardized, and the sport became a part of popular sporting events in Europe and North America. Tug-of-war was an Olympic sport from 1900 to 1920. The primary purpose of tug-of-war is to test strength, endurance, and teamwork. It requires a collective effort from all team members to achieve a common goal, making it a physical challenge and a mental and strategic one. The sport is widely played at various levels, from casual school and community events to more organized competitions, including world championships. Despite its simplicity, tug-of-war demands a high level of physical fitness, with success relying on the team's strength, technique, and coordination. The sport fosters a sense of camaraderie and teamwork, making it a popular activity for building group morale and unity. Today, the International Olympic Committee recognizes tug-of-war as part of the World Games and is governed internationally by the Tug of War International Federation (TWIF). This recognition and organization at an international level underline the enduring appeal and competitive nature of tug-of-war, a sport with ancient roots that continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages around the world.

Africa

Feb

Turkey's Twin Terror Earthquakes (TR/SY)(2023): February 6

06:20 AM | -

On February 6, 2023, twin earthquakes, one at Gaziantep (7.8 magnitude) at 4 AM local time and the second eight hours later centered in Kahramanmarhas, Turkey (7.5 magnitude), rocked the region, destroying over 16,000 buildings and killing at least 5,000 people within the first 24 hours. The twin terror tremors represent the most significant quakes in Turkey since 1939's Erzincan earthquake, which killed 33,000 people. Structural damage and casualties remain concentrated in southeastern Turkey and northwestern Syria. Freezing overnight temperatures and hundreds of aftershocks continue to thwart rescue efforts, leaving thousands of people buried in the rubble and existing structures unsafe in both nations. Syria's ongoing war and sanctions against the government have made getting aid and rescue into that country difficult, despite over 50 nations sending rescue teams, assistance, and supplies. Turkey's leadership has declared a 90-day state of emergency. The ultimate death and casualty toll is expected to reach tens of thousands. Syria's leadership has yet to do so and has thus far refused most foreign aid. LEEP Calendar wrote this entry on February 7, 2023, as the story continues to develop.

Africa

Feb

Typewriter Appreciation Month: February

06:20 AM | -

Typewriter Appreciation Month, a time to celebrate the typewriter, without which most of our modern means of communicating would be unknown. Even on a smart phone, there is a keyboard patterned after the typewriter. Richard Polt, Author of 'The Typewriter Revolution: A Typist's Companion for the 21st Century has done a beautiful job of documenting the history of the Typewriter. He writes: ___________ “The concept of a typewriter dates back at least to 1714, when Englishman Henry Mill filed a vaguely-worded patent for 'an artificial machine or method for the impressing or transcribing of letters singly or progressively one after another.' But the first typewriter proven to have worked was built by the Italian Pellegrino Turri in 1808 for his blind friend Countess Carolina Fantoni da Fivizzano; unfortunately, we do not know what the machine looked like, but we do have specimens of letters written by the Countess on it. (For details, see Michael Adler's excellent 1973 book The Writing Machine. Carey Wallace's 2010 novel The Blind Contessa's New Machine is based on the relationship between the Countess and Turri.) Numerous inventors in Europe and the United States worked on typewriters in the 19th century, but successful commercial production began only with the 'writing ball' of Danish pastor Rasmus Malling-Hansen (1870). This well-engineered device looked rather like a pincushion. Nietzsche's mother and sister once gave him one for Christmas. He hated it. Much more influential, in the long run, was the Sholes & Glidden Typewriter, which began production in late 1873 and appeared on the American market in 1874.” ___________ Read the rest of this fascinating history (includes pictures of the earliest typewriters) at: http://site.xavier.edu/polt/typewriters/tw-history.html

Africa

Feb

Ukulele Day, World: February 2

06:20 AM | -

The late ukulele teacher and musician Mike Lynch created Ukulele Day. Over 40 years of his life were devoted to teaching music, with his favorite instrument, the small four-string guitar-like instrument called a ukulele. His wife continues his legacy with Ukulele Day by distributing his books, music, and videos. Mike Lynch passed away on January 2, 2018.

Africa

Feb

Umbrella Day: February 10

06:20 AM | -

Parasols, sunshades, umbrellas, brolly, parapluie, rainshade, gamp, Bumbershoot, or umbrolly, however, you refer, today is Umbrella Day. Umbrellas have protected people from the wind, sun, snow, and rain since around 2000 BC.

Africa

Feb

Understanding Month, World (1905): February

06:20 AM | -

World Understanding Month in February emphasizes Rotary International's commitment to global peace and conflict resolution. Attorney Paul P. Harris, a lawyer in Chicago, founded Rotary International. It began as a fellowship for businessmen to network beyond the confines of politics and religion. The organization expanded rapidly, with clubs established in major American cities and globally. As it grew internationally, its name evolved from the Rotary Club to the International Association of Rotary Clubs and, ultimately, Rotary International. The organization focuses on humanitarian service and global peace, working closely with the United Nations and establishing Rotary Centers for International Studies in Peace and Conflict Resolution at various universities worldwide.

Africa