All - Leep Calendar

Today is the anniversary of the signing of the Antarctic Treaty on December 1, 1959. This treaty, signed by 12 nations to ensure the area of Antarctica (comprising 10% of the earth's surface), be set aside as an international space forever and be used only for peaceful purposes. The treaty is considered the first nuclear arms agreement and the first to govern human activity in an international space. On the 50th anniversary, the non-profit Our Spaces took up the cause. They created International Antarctica Day to help educate the world about this pristine environment and the treaties protecting it.

Africa

Dec

Anti-corruption Day, Intl.: December 9

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The United Nations General Assembly designated December 9 as International Anti-Corruption Day in 2005 to raise awareness of corruption and the Convention's role in combating and preventing it. Corruption is a complex social, political and economic phenomenon that affects all countries. Corruption undermines democratic institutions, slows economic development, and contributes to governmental instability. Corruption attacks the foundation of democratic institutions by distorting electoral processes, perverting the rule of law, and creating bureaucratic quagmires whose only reason for existing is the soliciting of bribes. Economic development slows when foreign direct investment is discouraged, and small businesses within the country often find it impossible to overcome the 'start-up costs' required because of corruption. International Anti-Corruption Day focuses on the causes of corruption and urges communities to unite to combat it for the good of all.

Africa

Dec

Anti-Corruption Excellence Award (ACE) Awards: December 9

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Annually on International Anti-corruption Day, The Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Anti-Corruption Excellence Award or ACE Award is an international recognition established to honor and support the global fight against corruption. Named after Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of the State of Qatar, the award underscores the commitment of the nation and its leadership to promote transparency, accountability, and the rule of law. The award aims to recognize and honor the significant contributions of individuals, organizations, and governments worldwide in preventing and combating corruption. The broader objective is to foster zero tolerance towards corruption and inspire more individuals and institutions to participate in anti-corruption efforts actively. The award features several categories: research, youth creativity, innovative projects, and lifetime or outstanding achievement. Each highlights a different aspect or approach to the battle against corruption. Nominees undergo a stringent evaluation process. An independent committee of experts from different world regions assesses the contributions based on their impact, innovation, sustainability, and cooperation. An annual award ceremony is held in different countries, bringing together leaders, activists, and stakeholders worldwide. The event honors the awardees and serves as a platform for discussions, networking, and sharing best practices in anti-corruption efforts. The award is in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). This partnership underscores the global nature of the initiative and aligns it with the broader international efforts against corruption. Over the years, the award has shed light on many outstanding anti-corruption efforts, giving them a global platform. It has significantly inspired and motivated activists, policymakers, and institutions to enhance their anti-corruption initiatives. The Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani Anti-Corruption Excellence Award is a testament to the global commitment to eliminating corruption, promoting best practices, and celebrating those who lead the way in creating a more transparent and accountable world.

Africa

Dec

App Day, Ntl: December 11

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National App Day celebrates the programs, software, and plug-ins that make our lives easier. The history of apps, short for applications, aligns with the evolution of computing and mobile technology. The concept of an "app" has transformed significantly, from simple software programs on early computers to the sophisticated mobile applications we use today. The first recognizable apps were software programs designed for the earliest computers in the 1950s and 1960s. Computer scientists tailored these applications for specific tasks such as calculations, data processing, and word processing. However, the modern concept of an app as we know it today — specialized software downloaded on a device — took shape with the advent of personal computers in the 1970s and 1980s. Software applications for these computers, like Microsoft Word or Excel, could be considered early versions of apps. The true revolution in apps came with the rise of the internet and the development of web applications in the 1990s. These web apps allowed users to interact with software through a web browser, making them more accessible and user-friendly. The app landscape underwent another major transformation with the introduction of smartphones. The real turning point was in 2008 with the launch of Apple's App Store for the iPhone. This platform allowed third-party developers to create and distribute applications designed for the iPhone's interface and operating system. Other platforms like Android rapidly adopted The App Store model, leading to the explosive growth of mobile apps. As for the first app, it's challenging to pinpoint a single "first" app due to the evolution of the concept over different technological eras. In the context of mobile apps, one of the first applications introduced on the Apple App Store was "Snake," a game app. However, several other simple apps like a calculator, calendar, and email were embedded on platforms in earlier smartphones. The creation and proliferation of apps have been a collective effort by countless developers, companies, and innovators worldwide. This collaborative development has led to an app ecosystem that spans millions of applications, serving a myriad of functions from entertainment and communication to health, education, and business. The history of apps is a story of technological advancement and adaptation, reflecting the changing ways in which people interact with technology in their daily lives. From rudimentary software on the earliest computers to the dynamic and diverse applications available at our fingertips today, apps have become an integral part of the digital experience. This day originated in 2022.

Africa

Dec

Arabic Language Day, Intl.: December 18

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Arabic is one of the six official languages of the United Nations and one of three surviving Semitic languages. The other official languages of the United Nations are Chinese, Spanish, Russian, French, and English. Each language gets its day each year. Arabic is the fourth most spoken language in the world after Mandarin, Spanish, and English.

Africa

Dec

Army-Navy Football Game (US-PA): December 13

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First played in 1890, the Army-Navy Game is a college football game between the United States Military Academy (USMA) at West Point, New York, and the United States Naval Academy (USNA) at Annapolis, Maryland. 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

Dec

Art, Day Without: December 1

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Created in 1989 as a way for artists, museums, and other cultural institutions to raise awareness about AIDS, Day Without Art (DWA) now attracts thousands of institutions worldwide. It has become part of the observance calendar for many schools, libraries, museums, galleries, and art centers.

Africa

Dec

Asarah B'Tevet (J): December 29/30

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The tenth day of the Jewish month of Tevet is a fasting day to commemorate the beginning of the siege of Jerusalem in the sixth century BCE. In Israel, it is a public holiday honoring the dead whose date of death is unknown.

Africa

Dec

Bacon Day, Ntl.: December 30

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It's the end of the year and the New Year's Diet Resolution countdown. Time to satiate all those cravings, ergo National Bacon Day. Like many great things, from sunglasses to pasta, bacon originated in China around 1500 BC. By salting pork, the Chinese could preserve it during hot months. The same technique made its way to Europe and eventually America. Bacon is considered an adequate hangover food (ever notice you seem to crave fatty foods when hungover?), and the choline found in bacon is said to help in fetal brain development. PS: For those on Halal, Kosher, or Vegan diets, nobody said your bacon couldn't be turkey, beef, or plant-based. Also, check out the Los Angeles Times' 18 ways to enjoy bacon (including a bacon martini, bacon-bourbon-pumpkin pie, and salads): http://www.latimes.com/food/la-dd-recipes-for-bacon-lovers-from-the-la-times-test-kitchen-20140829-photogallery.html Or Weber's favorite bacon grill recipes. https://www.weber.com/US/en/blog/grilling-inspiration/six-recipes-to-celebrate-national-bacon-lovers-day/weber-29555.html. National Bacon Day is an unofficial event with no sponsor.

Africa

Dec

Bake Cookies Day, Ntl.: December 18

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National Bake Cookies Day is an unofficial holiday with no sponsor that grew out of the tradition of baking Christmas Cookies in the West. Christmas cookies are a big part of the annual holiday celebration, and each family has recipes handed down from generation to generation. It’s a common tradition to bring plates of cookies into the office during the holidays to share with coworkers. Another tradition is cookie parties. For a cookie party, each person attending brings 3-4 dozen of their favorite family recipe. These are distributed among all participants to create unique cookie plates and taken home or to the office to share. The best way to celebrate today is to bake and share a batch of cookies with friends and family. Merry Christmas!

Africa

Dec

Banks, Intl Day Of: December 4

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On December 19, 2019, the UN General Assembly adopted resolution 74/245, designating December 4 as the International Day of Banks. The day recognizes the significant potential of multilateral and other international development banks in financing sustainable development and providing know-how, along with the vital role of banking systems in the Member States in improving the standard of living. The resolution aligns with the UN's commitment to implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted in September 2015. The SDGs aim to achieve sustainable economic, social, and environmental development by 2030. Eradicating poverty, reducing inequality, and addressing climate change are highlighted as critical challenges. Achieving sustainable development requires long-term perspectives and collective action involving governments, the private sector, and civil society. The global economy faces risks, financial volatility, and geopolitical factors hindering growth, stability, and development. Weaknesses in the global financial system, including the volatility of capital flows, debt sustainability challenges, and reduced competition, pose risks to achieving the SDGs. Ensuring coherence across policy areas, including financial regulations and addressing social and environmental risks, is crucial to creating a sustainable financial system. National development banks play a role in developing financing options for SDG-related investments. Their alignment with the Goals and collaboration with multilateral banks can enhance Goal-related finance by combining international resources and local market knowledge.

Africa

Dec

Barbie and Barney Backlash Day: December 16

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Barbie & Barney Backlash Day is a day for parents. You're in luck if you've had enough of Barney's "I Love You" song and the impossible dimensions of Malibu Barbie and friends. Today is the day to trash, thrash, and dump them both—if you dare. Just make sure your kids don't catch you doing it!

Africa

Dec

Bartender Day: December 5

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International Bartender Day (formerly National) pays homage to the longstanding and rich history of bartending, a profession that has been a part of human culture since ancient times. The day originated in 2011. In the United States alone, there are over half a million bartenders, making this day a significant occasion to celebrate the skills and contributions of mixologists everywhere. The history of bartending stretches back to antiquity and is deeply rooted in various cultures worldwide. In Europe, bartending originated with innkeepers, who often served as bartenders, creating ales and spirits for their guests. This tradition laid the groundwork for the modern bartending profession. A significant milestone in American bartending history was the publication of "The Bartender's Guide" by Jerry Thomas in 1862, a notable American bartender and saloon owner. This book, distributed in the US, was a pioneering work in the field of mixology, establishing a foundation for the craft and profession of bartending. Throughout history, bartenders have demonstrated resilience and adaptability, particularly evident during the Prohibition era in the United States. During this time, bartenders continued to practice their craft in underground speakeasies, creating iconic drinks and further evolving the art of mixology. Even during Prohibition in the United States, bartending thrived in the underground scene. Speakeasies, operating secretly, became hubs where bartenders continued to innovate and serve, giving rise to iconic drinks like the gin and tonic. This era is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of bartenders in the face of legal constraints. Today, bartending is a skilled profession, with practitioners known for their creativity, knowledge of spirits and cocktails, and ability to create a welcoming atmosphere for patrons. The evolution of bartending from its humble beginnings to its current status reflects this timeless profession's cultural and social importance. International Bartender Day is thus not just a celebration of the individuals who craft our adult beverages but also a recognition of the deep historical and cultural roots of bartending.

Africa

Dec

Basketball Day, World: December 21

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SWOOOOSH! IT'S WORLD BASKETBALL DAY World Basketball Day is celebrated globally to honor and promote the sport of basketball. It encourages participation at all levels and highlights the sport's positive impact on physical health, teamwork, and community building. This event aims to unite basketball enthusiasts, players, and organizations to celebrate the game's rich history and its role in promoting unity and sportsmanship. The primary purpose of World Basketball Day is to raise awareness about basketball's benefits, promote inclusivity in sports, and inspire a new generation of players. This celebration is not tied to a specific historical event but aligns with basketball's teamwork, dedication, and athletic excellence values. It's a day for everyone, from seasoned players to newcomers, and events typically include local and international games, clinics, and community activities, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie. HISTORY OF BASKETBALL Basketball is a team sport where two teams, usually five players, compete to score points by shooting a ball through the opponent's hoop. The game is played on a rectangular court, and points are scored by making field goals or free throws. The team with the most points at the end of the game wins. Basketball was invented in December 1891 by Dr. James Naismith, a physical education instructor at the International YMCA Training School in Springfield, Massachusetts. Naismith developed the game as an indoor activity to keep his students fit during winter. The original game used a soccer ball and two peach baskets as goals. Over time, the rules were refined, and the sport rapidly gained popularity. In 1936, basketball was introduced as an Olympic sport at the Berlin Games, further boosting its international profile. The formation of the National Basketball Association (NBA) in 1946 helped professionalize the sport, leading to its global expansion. Basketball has become one of the most popular sports worldwide, played and watched by millions. With its global broadcast reach, the NBA has played a significant role in promoting the sport. International tournaments like the FIBA Basketball World Cup and the Olympic basketball competition attract teams and fans worldwide. Countries, including the United States, Spain, Argentina, China, and Australia, have strong basketball cultures and successful national teams. TOP FIVE MOST CELEBRATED BASKETBALL PLAYERS Determining the top five basketball players of all time is subjective. However, these players are celebrated for their exceptional skill, impact on the game, and contributions to their teams. Their achievements continue to inspire and awe basketball enthusiasts worldwide. Michael Jordan Widely regarded as the greatest basketball player of all time, Jordan's career with the Chicago Bulls included six NBA championships and five MVP awards. His scoring ability, defensive prowess, and clutch performances defined an era. LeBron James Known for his versatility, basketball IQ, and athleticism, LeBron James has won four NBA championships and multiple MVP awards. His impact extends beyond the court, influencing sports culture and social issues. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar The NBA's all-time leading scorer, Abdul-Jabbar's career spanned two decades, during which he won six NBA championships and six MVP awards. His signature skyhook shot remains iconic. Magic Johnson Renowned for his exceptional passing and leadership, Johnson led the Los Angeles Lakers to five NBA championships during the 1980s. His rivalry with Larry Bird and their contributions to the NBA's popularity are legendary. Larry Bird A fierce competitor and skilled shooter, Bird led the Boston Celtics to three NBA championships. His rivalry with Magic Johnson and his all-around game made him one of the best players of his era. World Basketball Day celebrates basketball's rich history and cultural impact, honoring its top players while encouraging new generations to embrace the sport. Through global participation and events, it continues to promote the values of teamwork, dedication, and athletic excellence.

Africa

Dec

Bathtub Party Day: December 5

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Bathtub Party Day is a celebration for the stressed out as the holiday season kicks into high gear. Today is when you forgo the shower and slip into a leisurely tub surrounded by rubber duckies, swizzle soap, and bubbles. Silly, perhaps, but a great way to slide into the holiday season fully rested. Are you looking for an authentic bathtub party? Well, you’ll need to head to Budapest, Hungry on Saturday nights to partake in the largest bathtub party in the world, held almost weekly at the Budapest Thermal Bath from 10 PM to 3 AM. Spring, summer, and autumn bathtub parties occur at Szechenyi Baths. Winter parties at Lukacs Baths and ring in the new year at the pre-New Year’s Eve Cinetrip Pool Party on Dec 30 in Szechenyi Baths. To book your Budapest Bathtub party, go here: http://www.bathsbudapest.com/Budapest-bath-parties.

Africa