All - Leep Calendar

National Men’s Grooming Day seeks to raise awareness about the importance of good grooming practices and style in men within the United Kingdom. Created and sponsored by American Crew, this event allows women to pamper their men. Salons and barbershops often hold special events to encourage men to buy essential grooming products. And the press in the UK seems to enjoy covering this topic.

Africa

Aug

Relaxation Day, Ntl.: August 15

06:20 AM | -

It is the height of summer and time to kick back. National Relaxation Day allows everyone to relax and take it easy. This is an unofficial event with no sponsor; however, it’s pretty popular with life management and health groups. Take their advice and RELAX!

Africa

Aug

Shri Krishna Janmashtami, (H)(3227 BC): August 15-16

06:20 AM | -

Sri Krishna Janmashtami is the birthdate of Lord Krishna. The dates of his life correspond to July 21, 3227 BC - February 18, 3102 BC). Sri Krishna Janmashtami is celebrated on the eighth day (Ashtami) of the Krishna Paksha (dark fortnight) during the month of Bhado in the Hindu calendar. Devotees fast from morning to midnight and decorate temples and homes with idols of Lord Krishna on swings and in cradles. For Hindu children, Krishna's birthday is a much anticipated holiday akin to Christmas in Christian cultures. PLEASE NOTE: We use the Indian civil calendar, the official holiday calendar in India. The Hindu faith has many calendars, each specific to different regions and tribes, with dates and celebrations marked by differing positions of the sun, moon, and stars. Names of months and holidays and the corresponding dates in the Gregorian Calendar may vary widely from one calendar to the next. Determine the proper calendar before attending local events.

Africa

Aug

Taliban retake Afghanistan (AF)(2021): August 15

06:20 AM | -

In literally ten days, against the backdrop of US and NATO military withdrawal, the Taliban regained control of Afghanistan by taking over every provincial capital, including Kabul, and forcing the president to flee on August 15, 2021. The speed and efficiency with which the para-military group gained control of the entire nation shocked the world, catching Afghanis and world leaders by surprise. The action left an uneasy void, with the Afghan people specifically concerned. When the United States and its coalition invaded Afghanistan in October 2001, women had few rights. They were forced to wear burkas in public and prohibited from attending school, working, or moving freely. Music, dancing, and public mingling between the sexes were forbidden. Men were required to wear beards and dress under specific laws. All of these laws and rules were enforced by the Taliban brutally. It is unknown if the Taliban will return to its draconian measures or if it will migrate toward a more inclusive and equitable Islamic rule. Inclusive governance was the norm during the Golden Era of Islam, and even highly conservative Islamic states like Saudi Arabia and Iran have been moving. We are writing this on August 15, 2021, and we'll update it in 2022. For the sake of the people of Afghanistan and an entire generation that hasn't been barred from school and work, we hope the Taliban learned from its previous mistakes in its two decades of exile. Given the speed they were able to accomplish this, at least in fighting, they have. Inshallah, that translates to governing and diplomacy. July 13, 2022: Unfortunately, as we approach the one-year anniversary, Afghanistan is in dire straits. Women have lost most of their rights, and girls continue to be barred from school. Starvation is rampant, and earthquakes and other disasters show the Taliban's weakness. Worse, the American government has done little to correct its abandonment of Afghanistan. Nothing will get better until the Taliban is gone. They did not keep their assurances, and the end is nowhere in sight.

Africa

Aug

Tech Platform Awareness Day: August 15

06:20 AM | -

New technology platforms are released each year that change how we communicate, market, and deliver goods and services. Some are monumental, such as the release of web 2.0 in 2004, which paved the way for social media. Some are disruptive; others function as a fad and disappear. Madison Worldwide Advertising created Tech Platform Awareness Day to educate marketers and the public about new platforms that have appeared in the past year and how to use them.

Africa

Aug

Twins Day, (FR): August 15

06:20 AM | -

The Twins Day Festival occurs each August in Pleucadeuc, France. What began in 1994 as inspiration for a mayor with twin daughters is now the largest twin festival in Europe. 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 unknown until 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

Aug

Airborne Day, Ntl. (1940): August 16

06:20 AM | -

International Airborne Day honors the bravery and commitment of Armed Services Airborne divisions, combat troops who land by parachute. Created by President George W Bush in 2001 with Senate Resolution 235, the chosen date is the anniversary of the first US parachute jump on August 16, 1940. While the main celebration occurs at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, the headquarters of the 82nd Airborne Division, there are minor celebrations across the country. Brigadier General William Mitchell created the airborne division; he thought of putting troops in parachutes during combat. Later, Major William Lee tried and tested the methods for parachuting at Fort Benning, Georgia. By 1942, the US military had its first combat jump using a C-47 plane in North Africa.

Africa

Aug

Bhadon (S): August 16 – September 14

06:20 AM | -

Bhadra (Bhadrapada or Bhaado Bhadra) is the Sikh month corresponding to August or September in the Gregorian calendar. Bhadra is usually the sixth month in the Sikh calendar. Bhadra begins with the Sun's entry into Virgo.

Africa

Aug

Geocaching Day, Intl.: August 16

06:20 AM | -

International Geocaching Day is the day when treasure hunters (geocachers) all around the world enjoy geocaching. This game involves a GPS (Global Positioning System) device to look for clues and prizes. Geocaching is an outdoor adventure. Players use our free mobile app or a GPS device to find cleverly hidden containers worldwide. There are more than 10 million registered users on Geocaching.com, with more than 800,000 in the U.S., more than 275,000 in Germany, and more than 160,000 in Canada. Over 2.5 million geocaches are waiting to be found in over 180 countries. Geocachers explore the world around them with friends and family. Geocaching is a game that reveals a world beyond every day. The possibility of a discovery hides under park benches, in the forest, and probably a short walk from where you are right now (literally).

Africa

Aug

Henley on Todd Regatta (AU-NT): August 16 (est)

06:20 AM | -

The Aussies have a sense of humor, something well illustrated by hosting a regatta on the dry bed of the Todd River in Alice Springs— the Henley on Todd Regatta. Inspired by England's Henley Royal Regatta with a distinctly Aussie twist, this boat race stands out for one unique reason: there's no water involved. Originating in 1962 as a satirical response to the more aristocratic Henley Royal Regatta, the Rotary Clubs of Alice Springs created the Henley on Todd Regatta. Regatta competitors "row" their boats by carrying them along the sandy riverbed in various categories, including yachts, rowing eight-oared shells, and Oxford tubs. These bottomless "boats" are held around their waist while they sprint, stumble and stagger to the finish line. A new addition, the "Battle of the Boats," features flour and water bombs and high-pressure fire hoses in a mock naval engagement. The Henley on Todd Regatta's unique blend of humor, fun, and community spirit makes it a highlight of the Alice Springs event calendar. The event includes a highly anticipated parade and a series of wacky competitions, from shovel-propelled sand boogie boarding to sand shoveling (there is a sand theme). Proceeds from the event support local, national, and international humanitarian projects, thus amplifying the regatta's beneficial impact through finances and laughter each year. Rain is the only factor that could cancel this eccentric event, which occurred only once in the regatta's history in 1993. 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

Aug

Heritage Week, Ntl.(IE): August 16-24 (est)

06:20 AM | -

HERITAGE WEEK IN IRELAND: CELEBRATING CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL RICHES Heritage Week, celebrated annually in August, is a vibrant event showcasing Ireland's rich cultural and historical heritage. The Heritage Council, which works to protect and enhance Ireland's heritage, champions the event. Heritage Week aims to engage people of all ages in appreciating and preserving the country's diverse cultural, natural, and built heritage. ACTIVITIES DURING HERITAGE WEEK Since its inception in 2005, Heritage Week has grown into a major event, drawing participants from across the island. The week-long celebration includes activities designed to educate, entertain, and inspire. These activities include: Historical Tours and Walks—Guided tours of significant historical sites, castles, and ancient monuments, providing insights into Ireland's rich past. Workshops and Demonstrations—Hands-on workshops in traditional crafts, music, dance, and storytelling, allowing participants to engage directly with cultural practices. Lectures and Exhibitions—Expert talks and exhibitions covering various aspects of Irish heritage, from archaeology and architecture to folklore and genealogy. Family-Friendly Events—Interactive activities for children and families include treasure hunts, nature trails, and heritage games. Community Projects—Local heritage projects that involve community participation, fostering a sense of shared history and collective identity. Heritage Week involves the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, emphasizing the island's shared cultural and historical bonds. Various events and activities occur throughout the island, encouraging cross-community participation and collaboration. THE WEEK'S GOAL Heritage Week aims to raise awareness about the importance of preserving Ireland's heritage and encourage public involvement in conservation efforts. It also seeks to instill a sense of pride and ownership in Ireland's rich cultural legacy and promote sustainability and respect for historical and natural environments. Heritage Week fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of Ireland's heritage through diverse and inclusive programming. It also allows individuals and communities to connect with their roots and celebrate the traditions that shape their identity. As Heritage Week continues to grow in popularity, it underscores the importance of protecting and promoting Ireland's cultural and historical treasures. By engaging people from all walks of life, the event ensures that the country's heritage remains vibrant and accessible for future generations.

Africa

Aug

Homeless Animals’ Day, Intl.: August 16

06:20 AM | -

International Homeless Animals' Day raises awareness of the plight of the animals that do not have owners, often due to overpopulation. ISAR (International Society for Animal Rights) created National Homeless Animals' Day as a call for action in reducing pet overpopulation. Programs and resources that can reduce and even eliminate the increasing number of abandoned pets are communicated to the public. People marking this day organize candlelight vigils, animal blessings, free spay and neuter clinics, and provide education to the public on how to prevent overpopulation and unwanted pets. In the image: This is Charlie Chaplin, one of several feral cats that used to stop by my home for breakfast daily in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. When Charlie started showing up, I already had three, one I brought with me from the US, Sinatra, and two I adopted, Joey and Zoe, from my cat breakfast bar. Once I moved into a new house on camp, he was semi-adopted by a friend down the street. Charlie was a caring and giant loveable cat. He took residence with my friend until she left the company, and Charlie had to fend for himself again. The last time I saw him, Charlie was covered in scars and scratches, several across his face. His weight was significantly down, and he scampered away before I could catch him. Charlie Chaplin is one of the millions of feral cats around the world that would be adoring pets in different circumstances. Charlie Chaplin made an impression. He deserves remembering, and I think he'd like this tribute.

Africa

Aug

Honey Bee Day, World: August 16

06:20 AM | -

Created in 2009 with USDA backing after lobbying from American beekeepers alarmed by declining bee populations due to herbicide use, Honey Bee Day evolved into an international campaign. There are several types of honey bees, with each showing preference for different crops. If you grew up before the 1990s, you probably remember seeing a lot of bees in the summer. They were everywhere—anywhere there were flowers. Take a walk around your neighborhood today, and more likely than not, you won't see a single bee. Where did they all go? Bee populations have declined 90 percent in the United States since 1962 due to insecticides and other chemicals, disease, global warming and deforestation. Bees, butterflies, birds, and bats are essential to pollination; food won't grow without them. A recent Harvard study found that global crop yields have declined three to five percent due to this significant loss in pollinators. Fortunately, one threat, the bacterial disease American foulbrood, which can wipe out an entire bee colony in three weeks, now has a vaccine. The first ever USDA-approved bee vaccine will be available to beekeepers in the spring of 2023. There are an estimated 20,000 different species of bees. Several have gone extinct (13 in the United Kingdom) in the past 30 years, and others, including the honey bee, are endangered or threatened. There is also a World Bee Day on May 20, which was first held in 2018.

Africa

Aug

Moon—Third Quarter: August 16

06:20 AM | -

Today is the third quarter of the moon, meaning it is halfway between the full moon and the new moon.

Africa

Aug

Namibia Genocide (1904): August 16

06:20 AM | -

NAMIBIA GENOCIDE The Namibia Genocide, also known as the Herero and Namaqua Genocide, began on August 16, 1904 and concluded in late 1907 in German Southwest Africa (modern-day Namibia). It is considered the first genocide of the 20th century. The conflict involved the colonial German Empire and the indigenous Herero and Nama peoples. Ultimately, just 20% of the native peoples survived. The rest were killed. Namibia Genocide—How Did It Start? The genocide began following a rebellion against German colonial rule. The Herero, led by Samuel Maharero, and later the Nama, led by Hendrik Witbooi, revolted against oppressive colonial policies, including land seizures, cattle theft, and exploitation. The German response to the rebellion was brutal and aimed at quashing resistance. Namibia Genocide—Why Did It Happen? The root causes of the genocide were multifaceted, including economic exploitation, racial ideologies, and a desire to assert German imperial control. The German colonial authorities, led by General Lothar von Trotha, adopted policies aiming at the annihilation of the rebelling groups as a means to establish German dominance and eliminate perceived threats to their colonial rule. Namibia Genocide—How Many Were Killed? Estimates of the death toll vary, but it is widely acknowledged that up to 65,000 Herero (about 80% of the Herero population) and at least 10,000 Nama (about 50% of the Nama population) died as a result of the genocide. Deaths occurred due to direct violence, starvation, and, for those driven into the desert, dehydration. Disease in concentration camps established by the German authorities further increased the death toll. Namibia Genocide—What Happened? The main parties involved were the colonial German military forces and the indigenous Herero and Nama people. Key figures included General Lothar von Trotha, who led the German military campaign, and leaders of the Herero and Nama uprisings, such as Samuel Maharero and Hendrik Witbooi. General von Trotha issued an extermination order against the Herero in 1904 and extended similar tactics to the Nama. The German military pursued a scorched earth policy, poisoning wells, destroying food sources, and driving the indigenous people into the desert. Those captured found themselves in concentration camps, where they were subjected to forced labor, medical experiments, and conditions that led to a high mortality rate. Aftermath The genocide had long-lasting effects on the survivors and their descendants, including loss of land and livestock, which were crucial to their livelihoods and culture. In 2021, the German government recognized the Namibian Genocide and its part in it and made reparation payments of over $1 billion. Three Genocides—One Common Thread Germany's well-meaning but flawed law passed after the Holocaust, the "Reason of State," inadvertently entangled the country in its third genocide within 120 years, the Gaza Genocide (October 8, 2023 - ). The Reason of State requires Germany provide unconditional diplomatic, financial, and military support to the state of Israel as penance for the Holocaust, including curtailing its citizens' rights in favor of the foreign nation. Because of the law, Germany is an apathetic participant and a primary hurdle in ending the daily massacres, ethnic cleansing, starvation, and the bombing of Gaza. The only other obstacle with more blood on its hands is the United States. Though the German government did not thoroughly learn the lessons of colonial genocide, the Gaza Genocide is forcing it to re-examine its unconditional support for the nation created from the people it once persecuted, which has turned into one of the greatest persecutors in history.

Africa