All - Leep Calendar

First held in 1974, Palestinian Prisoners' Day raises awareness of the over one million people, many of whom are children, that have been arrested and detained by the nation-state of Israel, often without charge. Of particular concern is the number of children held without trial, often for petty offenses that, if the child were Jewish, would be, and usually are, dismissed or lightly reprimanded. The non-profit No Way to Treat a Child explains the situation. "Each year, the Israeli military detains and prosecutes around 700 Palestinian children. From the moment of arrest, Palestinian children encounter ill-treatment and torture at the hands of Israeli forces. Three out of four experience physical violence during arrest or interrogation. Israel is the only country in the world to automatically prosecute children in military courts that lack basic safeguards for a fair trial." Non-Jewish children as young as eight under Israel's military detention scheme endure night arrests, blindfolds, restraints, separation from their families and parents, physical and psychological violence, coerced confessions, unlawful transfers, and solitary confinement. Israel's two-tiered legal system is a crucial determinant of an apartheid state. One set of laws applies to Jewish residents of Israel itself and also Jewish residents in the areas it has occupied in violation of international law since 1967. Non-Jewish residents, including Christians, Muslims, and Druze, live under military laws and courts. Palestinian Prisoners' Day is a day to learn about this situation and demand lawmakers, in enabling nations, end the ill-treatment and torture of Palestinians, especially the children, under Israel's military detention system. #nowaytotreatachild

Africa

Apr

Verrazano Day (1574): April 17

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On April 17, 1574, Italian explorer Giovanni Verrazano discovered New York harbor. Later, this would become New York City. He died three years later.

Africa

Apr

Animal Crackers Day, Ntl. (1902): April 18

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Originally a British idea of the mid-nineteenth century, the first commercial 'animal crackers' in the US were produced by Stauffer's Biscuit Company in York, Pennsylvania. Later these would be commercialized mainly by the four-year-old National Biscuit Company (Nabisco), thanks to a marketing promotion. Fame would come to the little crackers in 1902 when Nabisco saw an opportunity to capitalize on the circus craze and its new little biscuits. According to the Barnum Museum, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus had nothing to do with the Barnum crackers and, to this day, do not receive a licensing fee. Barry Popik of New York researched this, and here's how he tells the story: "In 1889, Barnum decided to do something truly nutty, a tour of England with his circus. So after his buddy, Bailey, figured out how, exactly, you get a circus that normally takes up ten rail cars onto a boat, and across an ocean, Barnum's animals made their European debut. The English, meanwhile, had already invented something called animal biscuits. Sensing a marketing moment, several companies started manufacturing animal biscuits with circus packaging and called them Barnum's. Soon the product migrated across the ocean, where Nabisco's forerunner, the National Biscuit Co., put them on US store shelves in 1902. Originally called 'Barnum's Animals,' they became 'Barnum's Animal Crackers' in 1948." Read the full story at: http://www.barrypopik.com/index.php/new_york_city/entry/barnums_animal_crackers.

Africa

Apr

Artisan Day, World: April 18

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World Artisan Day began in 2021 to honor artisans worldwide for their unique contributions to uplifting communities and preserving humanity's cultures and traditions. The event focuses on sharing the stories of individual artisans in remote corners of the world, with the overarching theme being "a better world for artisans is a better world for all." The inspiration for the event originates from a remote festival held high in the Andes to celebrate Peruvian Artisan Day. Roberto Milk, CEO of NOVICA and a descendant of Peruvian artisans was instrumental in its creation. The skilled creations of Artisan connect us to a cultural history that respects time, traditional skills, and creative expression. In addition to celebrating artisans, World Artisan Day also celebrates those who shop with a purpose, helping artisans succeed, uplifting communities and preserving cultural traditions. Header Image: 14th generation artisans of the Taj Mahal, Agra, India. Photo by LD Lewis.

Africa

Apr

Autism Day, Adult: April 18

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Adult Autism Day in the United States raises awareness about autism when diagnosed in adults. Various medical organizations working toward helping autistic people and reducing autism in today’s society participate. It is a day for people to support autistic people and those who care for them.

Africa

Apr

Brewery Day, Ntl.: April 18

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National Brewery Day celebrates the oldest continuously operating brewery in the United States, the Yuengling Brewery in Pottsville, Pennsylvania, which was founded in 1829 by German immigrant David G. Yuengling. The story of Yuengling Brewery is not just a tale of a single company but a chapter in the broader narrative of brewing in the United States—a saga that mirrors the country's growth, challenges, and the evolving tastes of its people. THE GENESIS OF BREWING IN AMERICA Before Yuengling Brewery and even before the founding of the United States, beer was a staple in the colonies. Early European settlers brought the tradition of brewing, a practice dating back thousands of years in their native lands. Without safe drinking water, beer was a vital source of hydration and nutrition. Small-scale home brewing was common, and taverns brewing their beer became community life centers. The mid-17th century saw the establishment of the first American breweries, reflecting the growing demand for beer as the colonies expanded. These early breweries were small and local, serving their immediate communities. However, the quality and styles of beer varied widely, heavily influenced by the settlers' diverse European roots, with English ales, Dutch lagers, and German pilsners all finding their place in the new world. THE RISE OF YUENGLING BREWERY David G. Yuengling, an immigrant from Germany, founded the Eagle Brewery in 1829 in Pottsville, Pennsylvania. The choice of Pottsville, located in the coal-rich region of Schuylkill County, was strategic, providing access to a growing market of coal miners and their families. The brewery's initial offerings were traditional German-style beers, catering to the large German immigrant population in Pennsylvania. The early years of Yuengling Brewery included growth and challenges. In 1831, a fire destroyed the original brewery, leading to the construction of a new facility, which stands to this day. Throughout the 19th and into the 20th century, Yuengling Brewery expanded its operations, navigating the complexities of a growing nation—through the Civil War, the Industrial Revolution, and the surge of immigration that brought new tastes and demands. PROHIBITION AND BEYOND The enactment of Prohibition in 1920 posed an existential threat to breweries across the United States. Like many of its contemporaries, Yuengling adapted by producing "near beer" products with low alcohol content. The brewery also expanded into the production of ice cream, a venture that lasted until 1985. The repeal of Prohibition in 1933 marked a new era for Yuengling and the American brewing industry. Yuengling sent a truckload of its Winner Beer to President Franklin D. Roosevelt in celebration, symbolizing the industry's resurgence. THE EVOLUTION OF THE AMERICAN BREWERY INDUSTRY Yuengling Brewery's history is a microcosm of the broader American brewing industry. The post-prohibition era saw the rise of large-scale breweries, leading to a consolidation period that nearly erased beer diversity in the United States. However, the late 20th century witnessed a craft brewing renaissance, echoing the early days of diverse and localized beer production. Today, the United States boasts a vibrant beer scene characterized by a blend of large-scale breweries and thousands of small craft brewers, each contributing to the rich tapestry of American beer. From its early days serving coal miners in Pennsylvania to its position today as a symbol of endurance and innovation in the American brewing industry, Yuengling Brewery's journey through American history reflects the broader story of beer in the United States—a tale of resilience, adaptation, and the continuous pursuit of the perfect brew.

Africa

Apr

Coconut Week, Ntl.(KE): April 17-25 (est)

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NATIONAL COCONUT WEEK IN KENYA: AGRICULTURE, INNOVATION AND GROWTH In spring, growers, industrialists, vendors and manufacturers gather for Kenya's National Coconut Week convention. This dynamic event showcases the country's thriving coconut industry, championed by the Agriculture and Food Authority - Nuts and Oil Crops Directorate. The initiative aims to shed light on the multifaceted coconut industry, highlighting its importance from the fields of diligent farmers in the coastal counties to the bustling markets and innovative industries across Kenya and beyond. National Coconut Week seeks to amplify the impact, uncover the potential, and ensure the sustainable growth of the coconut sector. The event brings together stakeholders from various industry segments, including farmers, processors, exporters, researchers, and policymakers, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing to drive the industry forward. WHAT TO EXPECT AT COCONUT WEEK Throughout the week, activities engage and educate participants: Industry Conferences and Seminars: These sessions focus on current trends, challenges, and opportunities within the coconut sector. Experts share insights on best practices in farming, processing, and marketing, aiming to enhance productivity and profitability. Exhibitions and Trade Shows: Showcasing various coconut products such as oils, beverages, foods, cosmetics, and industrial applications. These exhibitions provide a platform for producers to display their goods and connect with potential buyers and investors. Field Visits and Demonstrations: Organized tours to coconut farms and processing facilities, allowing participants to observe innovative farming techniques and state-of-the-art processing methods. Workshops on Value Addition: Interactive sessions focusing on adding value to coconut products, exploring new product development, and improving existing ones to meet market demands. Networking Events: Opportunities for stakeholders to build connections, form partnerships, and explore collaborative ventures to strengthen the coconut industry. IMPACT ON KENYA'S ECONOMY National Coconut Week is crucial for several reasons. It highlights coconuts' economic and nutritional importance, encouraging investment in the sector and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The event aims to drive economic growth and improve food security in Kenya by supporting the livelihoods of coconut farmers and producers. The focus on sustainability ensures that the coconut industry can thrive for generations, balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship. National Coconut Week emphasizes adopting environmentally friendly farming and processing methods, aligning with broader sustainable development goals in Kenya's agricultural sector. Since its inception, National Coconut Week has grown into a significant annual event, providing a vital platform for stakeholders to collaborate, innovate, and drive the coconut industry forward. Through continued support and active participation, the event aims to unlock the full potential of the coconut sector, benefiting farmers, producers, and the national economy.

Africa

Apr

Ex-Spouse Day: April 18

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First observed in 1987, Ex-spouses' Day always falls on Good Friday. Created by a divorce survivor Reverend Ron Coleman of Kansas City, Missouri, as a day of reconciliation. Good Friday was chosen because it is the darkest day of the year in the Christian calendar. All seems lost, fear prevails, and doubts set in. Good Friday is the day Jesus was crucified. A person going through a divorce often feels this helpless. But then it is followed by the happiest day of the year, Easter—a day of resurrection, life renewed, forgiveness, and hope.

Africa

Apr

Good Friday (C): April 18

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Good Friday in Christianity is its most solemn observance commemorating the crucifixion and torture of Jesus Christ. It can also be referred to as Holy Friday or Mourning Friday. Good Friday occurs on the Friday before Easter, based upon the first full moon of spring. Good Friday can also occur on different days, depending on which form of Christianity, Orthodox or Western. The different date is due to which calendar, either the Julian calendar or Gregorian calendar, is used. Easter and Good Friday usually come a couple of weeks later in the Orthodox faiths compared to Catholicism and mainline Protestant religions.

Africa

Apr

Heritage Day, World: April 18

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World Heritage Day, or International Day for Monuments and Sites, World Heritage Day was created in 1983 by UNESCO to bring attention to the world's cultural monuments. Whether ancient buildings like the pyramids of Egypt and Mexico or newer structures like the Eiffel Tower, these buildings and monuments are part of humanity's collective history.

Africa

Apr

Juggler's (Multi-taskers) Day, Intl.: April 18*

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International Juggler's Day honors and celebrates everyday multitaskers, the people that juggle multiple things in their lives and their days. Multitasking is a skill that more and more people are forced to master due to the diversity and complications of life. This event differs from World Juggler's Day, which honors actual juggling artists who perform to our delight.

Africa

Apr

Lineman Appreciation Day, Ntl.: April 18

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National Lineman Appreciation Day recognizes the profession of linemen. Linemen are often first responders during storms and other events, working to make the scene safe for other public safety heroes. They perform atop powerlines 24/7 to keep electricity flowing and play a vital role in maintaining and growing the US energy infrastructure. Linemen often work in dangerous conditions, separated from their families to ensure schools and businesses remain open. The US House of Representatives created this day to recognize the efforts of linemen in keeping the power on and protecting public safety and their role as first responders.

Africa

Apr

Newspaper Columnists Day (1945): April 18*

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Newspaper Columnist Day celebrates the work and life of Ernest T. Pyle, an American newsman famous for his ability to make the ordinary and everyday extraordinary. Pyle won a Pulitzer Prize in 1944 for covering infantry soldiers during World War II. He died in combat on April 18, 1945, in Lejima, Japan, at age 44. Newspaper Columnist Day occurs each year on the anniversary of his death.

Africa

Apr

Parkash (S)(1621): April 18

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Guru Angad Sahib was born on this day in 1621. Today is the day that Sikhs mark his birthday.

Africa

Apr

Pet Owners Independence Day: April 18

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Thomas & Ruth Roy from Wellcat Holidays & Herbs created Pet Owners Independence Day. It's a day for pet owners everywhere to say, "Enough is enough!" skip a day from work and spend it on the couch or the floor, with their feet in the air and their best friends at their side. As for the pets, it's their turn to go to work, shop, and clean the kitchen, right?

Africa