All - Leep Calendar

National Cleaning Week occurs in late March. The American Cleaning Institute established National Cleaning Week to coincide with the traditional practice of spring cleaning, a custom with deep roots in many cultures worldwide. In climates with distinct winter seasons, spring has historically been seen as an opportune time to open up and clean out homes after long, enclosed winters, clearing dust and preparing for the warmer months ahead. Over time, this practice took on a more formalized tone in the context of National Cleaning Week. The week features various activities and promotions related to cleaning and organizing spaces in domestic and commercial settings. Cleaning companies often use this week to promote their services, while retailers may offer deals on cleaning supplies and equipment. The purpose of National Cleaning Week extends beyond mere tidiness to themes of sustainability and environmental consciousness. The week serves as an opportunity to advocate for eco-friendly cleaning practices and products, emphasizing the importance of maintaining healthful spaces for people and the planet. Furthermore, National Cleaning Week is often used as a platform to acknowledge the hard work of professional cleaners. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of these workers' essential role in maintaining public health and safety, particularly highlighted during global health crises. National Cleaning Week is a contemporary observance rooted in the age-old practice of spring cleaning. It reflects a collective desire for renewal and cleanliness and promotes sustainable practices and recognition of the cleaning industry's crucial role in maintaining healthy environments.

Africa

Apr

Crossword Puzzle Tournament, American (US-CT): April 5-7

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ABOUT THE AMERICAN CROSSWORD PUZZLE TOURNAMENT

The American Crossword Puzzle Tournament (ACPT), a revered event among enthusiasts, is the nation's oldest and largest crossword competition. Founded in 1978 by Will Shortz, the renowned puzzle editor of The New York Times, the tournament annually attracts hundreds of participants from across the United States and even internationally.

The ACPT began in Stamford, Connecticut, with Shortz's vision of bringing together crossword enthusiasts in a competitive yet friendly atmosphere. The inaugural event saw 149 contestants; since then, it has grown significantly in size and prestige. The tournament typically spans a weekend and includes several original crossword puzzles of increasing difficulty, created and judged by a panel of expert constructors and editors.

The New York Times plays a significant role in the American Crossword Puzzle Tournament. Will Shortz, the tournament's founder, has been the crossword puzzle editor for The New York Times since 1993. His involvement has created a strong association between the newspaper, known for its high-quality puzzles, and the tournament. The Times' crossword puzzles are considered a benchmark in the field, and the competition often features puzzles by constructors who regularly contribute to the newspaper.

Participants in the tournament compete in various categories based on skill level, from rookies to veterans. The event culminates in a playoff round, where the top three contestants solve a final puzzle on giant boards in front of an audience, showcasing their speed and skill under pressure.

Over the years, the ACPT has gained a reputation for its challenging puzzles and its sense of community. The event provides a platform for puzzle solvers to meet, exchange ideas, and celebrate their love for crosswords. The event is featured in the 2006 documentary "Wordplay," which spotlights the tournament and several of its most notable competitors.

In summary, the American Crossword Puzzle Tournament, founded by Will Shortz and closely associated with The New York Times, is a landmark event in the world of crossword puzzles. It attracts diverse puzzle enthusiasts annually, celebrating the intellectual challenge and communal joy of crossword solving.

Africa

Mar

Dental Assistant Week, Ntl.: March 3-9

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National Dental Assistant Week is an observance dedicated to recognizing dental assistants' crucial role in the healthcare system, particularly in dental practices. The American Dental Assistants Association (ADAA), an organization committed to the professional development of dental assistants, champions the event. The history of National Dental Assistant Week can be traced back to the establishment of the ADAA in 1924. The ADAA, recognizing the need to acknowledge the contributions of dental assistants to dentistry, initiated this particular week. Over the years, it has evolved into an opportunity for dental professionals and the public to appreciate dental assistants' skills, dedication, and professional expertise. Dental assistants are integral to the smooth functioning of a dental office. Their role encompasses a variety of tasks, including patient care, administrative duties, and lab work. In terms of patient care, dental assistants prepare patients for treatments, assist dentists during procedures by handling instruments, and ensure that patients are comfortable and informed about the procedures. They also play a crucial role in infection control by sterilizing equipment and maintaining a clean and hygienic environment. Dental assistants often schedule appointments, maintain patient records, and manage billing and payments. They are a vital link between patients and the dental practice, ensuring efficient communication and administrative flow. In the laboratory, dental assistants may be involved in tasks such as preparing materials for impressions and restorations and sometimes performing basic lab work under the dentist's supervision. National Dental Assistant Week serves as a celebration of dental assistants and an educational opportunity. Dental practices and educational institutions often use this week to highlight the career paths available in dental assisting and the importance of ongoing professional development in this field.

Africa

Mar

European Action Week Against Racism: March 18-24

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The European Action Week Against Racism is a significant event that mobilizes people across Europe to participate in actions that challenge racism and promote a more inclusive society. UNITED primarily coordinates this initiative for Intercultural Action, a pan-European network against nationalism, racism, fascism, and in support of migrants and refugees.

The event traces its roots to the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination on March 21, which was established by the United Nations in 1966 to commemorate the 1960 Sharpeville massacre in South Africa. Over time, this day evolved into a broader week-long series of events and activities across Europe. The European Action Week Against Racism aims to raise awareness of racial discrimination and promote respect for diversity and inclusion.

Activities during this week include educational programs, cultural events, protests, and campaigns designed to foster a better understanding of racism and how it affects individuals and communities. These events are often organized by local NGOs, community groups, educational institutions, and activists, each contributing to a larger, continent-wide movement against racism.

The universal definition of racism is complex and multifaceted, often subject to various interpretations based on historical, cultural, and social contexts. Generally, racism is defined as prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against someone of a different race based on the belief that one's race is superior, including individual behaviors and institutional practices that perpetuate racial inequality.

Racism can manifest in various forms, including but not limited to racial slurs, exclusionary policies, systemic inequalities in education and employment, and violence against individuals, groups, or nations based on their race. It is also the act of supporting racist actions passively, by proxy, or overtly.

Examples of national racism, direct and by proxy, include:

Financially, politically, and militarily supporting wars or actions against a people due to their ethnicity, race, religion, or origin.
Promoting, protecting, or ignoring any actions defined in the five aspects of genocide.
Proffering ethnic cleansing as a 'humane' solution to any crisis, whether manmade or environmental.
Supporting one group or nation's legal rights, including fundamental human rights, while denying the same rights, consideration, and credibility to the people they occupy, colonize, disenfranchise, or oppress.
Failing to act when racism becomes known, thereby passively accepting it and endorsing it.

Of course, the above is just a dent in how people and nations knowingly or through agency engage in racism. However, given the events of the fourth quarter of 2023 and into 2024, Europe has a lot of work to do during this week. Several of its nations are currently engaged in each of the outlined examples. Regrettably, North America and its "special relationship" are not included in this event.

The European Action Week Against Racism plays a crucial role in uniting people across Europe in the fight against racial prejudice and discrimination. It encourages a reflection on the pervasive nature of racism and the collective responsibility to create a society that respects and celebrates diversity. The event seeks to educate, inspire, and provoke action through its activities, contributing to the ongoing global effort to eradicate racism.

Africa

Mar

Fix a Leak Week: March 18-24

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Fix a Leak Week, an initiative by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is part of the agency's WaterSense program, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of fixing household leaks. This annual event, typically observed in March, focuses on educating homeowners and communities about the significant water waste caused by leaks and the simple steps they can take to conserve water.

The history of Fix a Leak Week dates back to 2009, when the EPA launched the event as part of its WaterSense program to promote water efficiency and conservation. The program addresses a critical issue: more than one trillion gallons of water are wasted annually in U.S. homes due to easy-to-fix leaks. The week-long event has since become a vital component of the EPA's efforts to encourage water conservation at the household level.

During Fix a Leak Week, the EPA and its partners provide resources and tips to help homeowners detect and repair leaks. Common areas where homeowners should check for leaks include:

Toilets: Often a significant source of water waste, toilets can have silent leaks. Homeowners can check for leaks by placing a few drops of food coloring in the toilet tank and waiting 10 minutes to see if color appears in the bowl.

Faucets and Showerheads: Worn-out rubber washers and gaskets frequently cause drips in faucets and showerheads. Checking and replacing these components can fix these leaks.

Outdoor Faucets and Hose Bibs: Seasonal changes can cause outdoor faucets and hose bibs to leak. It's essential to check these, especially as the weather warms up.

Irrigation Systems: Homeowners should inspect their irrigation systems each spring to ensure they aren't damaged by frost or freezing.

Under Sinks and Supply Lines: Checking for moisture or drips under sinks and around the supply lines to appliances like dishwashers and washing machines is also crucial.

The EPA also encourages local communities and organizations to get involved by hosting events, workshops, and challenges to spread the message about leak detection and repair.

Fix a Leak Week is more than just a campaign; it's a call to action for every household to play a role in water conservation. By fixing household leaks, homeowners can save water, reduce utility bills, and contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly use of vital water resources.

Africa

Mar

Food Waste Action Week (UK): March 18-24

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Food Waste Action Week in the United Kingdom is a significant campaign aimed at tackling the issue of food waste, a growing concern with substantial environmental implications. Launched by the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP), a UK-based charity and advisory body, this initiative seeks to raise awareness about the impact of food waste and encourage actions to reduce it.

The history of Food Waste Action Week began with WRAP's commitment to environmental and sustainability issues. Recognizing that household food waste contributes significantly to carbon emissions, WRAP initiated this annual event to educate the public and promote change. The week focuses on providing practical tips and strategies for households to minimize food waste, thereby reducing their environmental footprint.

During Food Waste Action Week, homeowners are encouraged to focus on key areas in their homes where food waste commonly occurs:

Refrigerator: Often the primary site for food waste, the fridge should be regularly monitored. Keeping it organized, understanding how to store different foods properly, and regular checks for items nearing expiration dates can significantly reduce waste.

Pantry and Cupboards: Arrange dry goods and canned items in pantries and cupboards so that older items are used first. Clear labeling can prevent overbuying and waste.

Freezer: Freezing food can extend its life, but it's important to label and date frozen items and rotate them to ensure they are used before becoming freezer-burned.

Meal Planning and Shopping Lists: Planning meals in advance and creating shopping lists can reduce impulsive buys that often lead to excess and unconsumed food.

Portion Control: Cooking and serving appropriate portion sizes helps reduce leftovers.

Composting: For unavoidable waste like vegetable peelings and eggshells, composting is an effective way to recycle these items back into the garden instead of sending them to landfills.

Understanding Expiration Dates: Educating about the difference between 'use-by,' 'sell-by,' and 'best before' dates can help make informed food safety and usability decisions.

Food Waste Action Week is about raising awareness and driving real change in behaviors at the household level. By focusing on these key areas, homeowners can play a crucial role in reducing food waste, contributing to the broader goal of environmental conservation and sustainability. This initiative underscores the importance of individual action in tackling global issues like food waste and climate change.

Africa

Mar

Fragrance Week, Intl.: March 18-24

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International Fragrance Week, organized by The Fragrance Foundation, is a global celebration dedicated to fragrances' art, craft, and history. This week-long event, typically observed in March, brings fragrance enthusiasts, brands, and creators together to honor and explore the diverse world of perfumery.

The Fragrance Foundation, established in 1949, has been instrumental in promoting the fragrance industry. The idea for an International Fragrance Week emerged from the Foundation's efforts to educate the public about scent's artistry and recognize the fragrance industry's cultural and economic importance. The week features various events, including new fragrance launches, promotions, and educational content to deepen the public's understanding and appreciation of fragrance.

MOST POPULAR NOTES IN PERFUMES

When discussing notes in fragrances, these can vary widely depending on cultural preferences, trends, and individual tastes. However, some classic notes have remained consistently popular over time. These include:

Floral Notes: Like rose, jasmine, and lavender, they are often found at the heart of many perfumes and are beloved for their natural, sweet, and romantic qualities.

Citrus Notes: Citrus notes such as lemon, bergamot, and orange are refreshing and uplifting and commonly used in lighter fragrances.

Woody Notes: These notes provide a warm and earthy base to many fragrances, including sandalwood and cedarwood.

Oriental Notes: Spices like vanilla, musk, and cinnamon, known for their rich and exotic scents, fall under this category.

Fragrance use dates back to ancient civilizations, with the earliest recorded use being in Mesopotamia and Egypt. These early fragrances were often made from natural ingredients like flowers, herbs, and spices and were used in religious rituals, as personal scents, and for medicinal purposes.

PERFUME, EAU DE TOILETTE, COLOGNE, AND OUD—WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?

Understanding the difference between perfume, cologne, eau de toilette, and oud is crucial in the world of fragrances:

Perfume (Parfum): This has the highest concentration of fragrance oils, typically between 20-30%, making it last the longest on the skin.

Eau de Toilette: Contains a lower concentration of fragrance oils, usually around 5-15%, and is therefore lighter and suitable for everyday wear.

Cologne (Eau de Cologne): Originally a light, citrus-based fragrance from Cologne, Germany, it now refers to fragrances with about 2-4% perfume oils in alcohol and water. It's lighter than eau de toilette and is often used in fragrances marketed to men.

Oud: A specific fragrance ingredient derived from the tropical agar tree, known for its rich and complex scent. It is used in various perfume concentrations and is common in Middle Eastern perfumery.

International Fragrance Week celebrates the sensory experience of fragrances but also highlights their historical and cultural significance. Through this event, The Fragrance Foundation aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the intricate art of perfumery and its impact on our lives.

Africa

Mar

Introverts Week, Ntl.: March 18-24

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National Introvert Week celebrates and highlights the unique strengths and qualities of introverts. The week, initiated in 2018 by author and introvert advocate Matthew Pollard, aims to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of introversion in a society that often values extroverted traits.

Pollard's work focuses on introversion. He established National Introvert Week to coincide with the release of his book "The Introvert's Edge," which explains how businesses can leverage the talents of introverts. The observance seeks to debunk common myths about introversion, showcase the successes of introverted individuals, and provide resources for introverts to thrive in their personal and professional lives.

WHAT IS AN INTROVERT?

An introvert is a personality who gains energy from alone time rather than social interaction. Unlike extroverts, who thrive on socializing, introverts often find that too much interaction can be draining and require solitude to recharge.

Some people can appear outgoing and gregarious in social settings but be introverted. Their job or social situation may depend on this. However, when they choose what they want to do, often it is a less crowded event or situation. As we age, we tend to be more introverted too.

HOW DO YOU KNOW IF YOU ARE AN INTROVERT?

Ask yourself these questions...

Do you prefer time alone to being surrounded by others constantly?
Would you consider spending three hours at a busy Chucky Cheese "hell on earth" or just an average outing with the kids?
Do you enjoy long drives, walks, or bike rides alone?
Would you prefer spending a month in a cabin away from people instead of at a busy resort?
Are you often annoyed when people don't let you escape for a breather (like heading to the bathroom alone) in a public space?
After thirty minutes to an hour in a crowded room, do you find yourself looking for a way out or somewhere with fewer people, if only for a few minutes?
Do you enjoy living alone and spending time with yourself?
Do small talk and frivolous topics annoy you?

If you answer yes to several of these questions, you may be an introvert in your private life. Many introverts wear the mettle of extrovert on the job if their career demands it. Think of it like an entrepreneur who loves his job but can't stand accounting. He has to do the bookkeeping, billing, and finance if he wants to do what he loves. It doesn't mean he's an accountant, any more than being an accountant means you're an entrepreneur.

WHAT ARE THE COMMON TRAITS OF INTROVERTS?

Preference for Solitude:
Introverts often enjoy spending time alone or in quiet, low-key environments.

Thoughtful and Reflective:
They tend to be introspective, often thinking deeply about various aspects of life.

Deep Focus:
Introverts generally can concentrate intensely on tasks and interests.

Listening Skills:
They are often good listeners, able to pay close attention and engage in meaningful conversations.

Cautious in Social Situations:
Introverts might take longer to open up in social settings and prefer to observe before participating.

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO ENGAGE WITH AN INTROVERT?

When engaging in conversation with an introvert, consider the following tips:

Give Them Time to Think:
Introverts often appreciate having a moment to think before they respond, so take your time with their answers.

Engage in Deep, Meaningful Conversations:
Discuss topics of genuine interest to both parties—chit-chat is for children.

Respect Their Need for Space:
Understand that introverts might need breaks from social interaction and don't take it personally if they seek time alone.

Listen Actively:
Show that you value their thoughts and input by listening closely and responding thoughtfully.

Create a Comfortable Environment:
Avoid overly crowded or noisy settings, which can be overwhelming for introverts.

SEVEN FAMOUS INTROVERTS

Introverts often scale the heights of achievement, making significant contributions to their fields while often preferring solitude or more reserved lifestyles. Here are seven notable examples:

Albert Einstein: The renowned physicist and Nobel laureate known for his theory of relativity, was reportedly an introvert. Einstein valued solitude and deep thought, which were crucial to his groundbreaking work in physics.

Rosa Parks: The iconic civil rights activist, known for her pivotal role in the Montgomery Bus Boycott, was described as quiet and reserved, yet her courageous actions spoke volumes in the fight against racial segregation.

Bill Gates: Co-founder of Microsoft, Gates is often cited as an introvert. He has spoken about valuing quiet and alone time for deep thinking, which is crucial to his success as a technology innovator and entrepreneur.

Marie Curie: The first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the only person to win in two different sciences (Physics and Chemistry), Curie was known for her reserved and focused personality, dedicating her life to her scientific research.

JK Rowling: The author of the Harry Potter series, Rowling, has described herself as introverted. Her rich imagination and storytelling skills, hallmarks of her introverted nature, have captivated readers worldwide.

Warren Buffett: One of the world's most successful investors, Buffett is known for his introversion. He often emphasizes the importance of reading, reflection, and careful analysis in investment decisions.

Frederic Chopin: The famous composer and pianist preferred small, intimate gatherings to large social events, and he cherished his privacy and quiet for composing some of the most well-known pieces in classical music.

These individuals demonstrate that introverts can succeed and substantially impact various fields, from science and civil rights to technology, literature, finance, and the arts. Their contributions highlight the diverse strengths and capabilities of introverted personalities.

Introversion is a distinct set of personality traits that should be understood and valued. By highlighting the strengths of introverts, Matthew Pollard's initiative, National Introvert Week, strives to create a more robust understanding of different personality types in various aspects of life.

Africa

Mar

Jewish Literary Foundation’s Book Week (UK): March 2-10

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The Jewish Literary Foundation's Book Week, formerly known as Jewish Book Week, is a significant literary festival in the United Kingdom that focuses on Jewish literature, ideas, and culture. The event has evolved from modest beginnings in 1952 to a well-recognized celebration of Jewish literary contributions. Initially organized by Dr. George Webber and the Jewish Book Council, the event began as a four-day event with lectures and book displays, aiming to become an annual national event prior to World War Two. Over the years, Jewish Book Week has expanded significantly. It has featured lectures, book exhibitions, and events in multiple locations, including Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow, Dublin, and Cardiff. The festival has always been ecumenical within the Jewish world, involving organizations across the spectrum of Jewish religious opinion. This inclusivity is a hallmark of the event, showcasing the diversity within the Jewish community. Prominent Jewish authors and intellectuals have been a key part of the event. Some notable participants in recent years include Booker Prize nominee Sarah Bernstein, poet Lemn Sissay, and former Israeli ambassador to the US, Itamar Rabinovich. The festival's program covers various topics, including comedy nights, discussions on Jewish history, and even explorations into Jewish contributions to sport. The festival aims to promote dialogue and understanding through the lens of Jewish literature and culture. It attracts a diverse audience, including Jewish and non-Jewish literature enthusiasts, and provides a platform for emerging talent in the literary world. Workshops and masterclasses conducted by renowned authors also feature the event, offering guidance to aspiring writers. The Jewish Literary Foundation's Book Week celebrates Jewish literature and culture and is a platform for intellectual discourse, promoting diversity and understanding through its wide-ranging programs.

Africa

Mar

Maslenitsa (RU): March 11-17

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Maslenitsa, also known as Pancake Week, is the Christian Orthodox faith's version of Carnival in the days leading up to the Lenten Fast in Russian and Slavic countries. This celebration has roots in both pagan and Christian traditions and is characterized by folk rituals, performances, games, and, most notably, the making and eating of pancakes.

Maslenitsa evolved from pagan rituals honoring the Slavic deity Veles, the patron of cattle and farming. The celebration symbolized the end of winter, the anticipation of spring, fertility, new life, and a struggle between the passing winter and the coming spring. This struggle is represented through various competitive games and activities.

CELEBRATING MASLENITSA

One of the most symbolic aspects of Maslenitsa is the preparation and consumption of blini (Russian pancakes). These pancakes are significant because their round, warm, golden appearance symbolizes the sun. Russian pancakes feature different toppings, including caviar, mushrooms, jam, or sour cream. In vintage Russian culture, blini represents the sun and the cycle of birth and death.

The week-long celebration of Maslenitsa involves different activities each day. For instance, Monday welcomes Maslenitsa by making a straw figure representing winter; Tuesday involves games and performances, and Wednesday opens feasts with blini and other dishes. Thursday is known for revelry and fistfights, while Friday and Saturday are reserved for family gatherings and honoring in-laws. Sunday is Forgiveness Sunday, where people seek forgiveness to cleanse themselves before Lent.

WHY PANCAKES?

Pancakes are a symbol of pre-Lent festivities. In many cultures, the period leading up to Lenten fast in the Christian liturgical year. Celebrations include feasting on foods that the faithful will give up during Lent. Pancakes, rich in eggs, butter, and milk (traditionally restricted during Lent), are a fitting choice for this final indulgence.

In Western Christian traditions, particularly in the United Kingdom and Ireland, Shrove Tuesday (Pancake Tuesday) is celebrated by making and eating pancakes.

In 2002, Moscow reinvigorated the celebration of Maslenitsa with large festivals, attracting numerous visitors. The celebration includes public festivities like sledding, tug-of-war, and the burning of the Maslenitsa effigy, symbolizing the farewell to winter and the welcoming of spring. Today, Maslenitsa is a celebration of spring and a cultural event that showcases Russian traditions and customs.

Africa

Mar

No More Week, Intl.: March 3-9

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"No More Week" is an annual campaign organized by the No More Foundation to end domestic abuse and sexual violence. Launched in March 2013 by a coalition of advocacy organizations, No More is a project of the NEO Philanthropy charity. The week usually falls in early March, coinciding with International Women's Day. The primary goal of this campaign is to encourage individuals, organizations, and communities to unite and take action against domestic abuse and sexual violence.

HOW PREVELANT IS DOMESTIC ABUSE?

No More initiated the campaign in response to the underreporting of domestic abuse and the lack of support for victims. For example, a 2009 report in Northern Ireland revealed that domestic abuse was the least likely reported of all violent crimes. A 2014 survey in the European Union found that only 14% of women reported their most serious incident of domestic abuse to the authorities. This underreporting is a significant issue worldwide, and the No More Week campaign seeks to address it by raising awareness and support.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a notable increase in domestic abuse cases worldwide. The lockdown measures, which confined people to their homes, often trapped victims with their abusers, leading to a spike in violence and further underreporting.

As part of its efforts, the No More Foundation provides various resources and organizes events to educate the public about domestic and sexual violence. Their activities include the No More Week Virtual 5k race, public awareness campaigns, and the provision of educational resources.

DOMESTIC ABUSE: WHO IS THE ABUSER?

Regarding domestic abuse statistics, it's important to note that while both men and women can be victims of domestic violence, women are disproportionately affected. In the United States, for instance, a woman is assaulted or beaten every nine seconds. Women between the ages of 20 and 24 are at the highest risk of becoming victims of domestic violence.

Domestic abuse in LGBTQ relationships is a complex issue. Studies suggest that members of the LGBTQ community may experience domestic violence at equal or even higher rates than their heterosexual counterparts. The unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ community, such as societal stigma and discrimination, can exacerbate the impact of domestic violence and create barriers to seeking help.

The issue of men being abused by women is also recognized and a growing trend, which often includes psychological abuse, gaslighting, and direct physical assault. Men have difficulty reporting abuse by a female partner due to social norms and standards. However, domestic violence is a matter of power and control, and it can manifest in various forms, irrespective of sex.

No More Week serves as a critical platform to highlight issues related to domestic violence and sexual assault, encouraging a collective effort to address and prevent these problems.

Africa

Mar

North Dakota Winter Show (US-ND): March 6-10

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The North Dakota Winter Show, held annually in Valley City, North Dakota, is an agriculture and livestock show that has been a significant event since its inception in 1937. The show occurs in early March and has grown to attract around 30,000 attendees each year.

The Winter Show originated under the guidance of Valley City businessman Herman Stern, who also played a pivotal role in founding the Greater North Dakota Association. The show began to support and promote agriculture during challenging economic and agricultural times. The first show featured over 1,700 heads of livestock and more than 2,000-grain samples, marking a successful start with a profit that allowed for future investment in the event.

The North Dakota Winter Show has served as a hub for agriculturists, ranchers, farmers, and the general public. It provides a platform for showcasing livestock, grain samples, and agricultural products and innovations. The show also includes entertainment, including musical performances and rodeos, adapting to changing tastes and trends. For instance, the rodeo became a part of the Winter Show in 1963 and has since featured significant talent.

Women's exhibits and activities have also been a vital part of the show, with a dedicated Women's Division organized in 1962. These exhibits have included a range of activities, from hobby shows to luncheons, showcasing the versatility and inclusivity of the event.

The North Dakota Winter Show has continually evolved, adding new events and attractions while maintaining its core focus on agriculture and community. It's a celebration of agricultural practices and a social event where people gather, share experiences, and create memories.

Africa

Sep

Employ Older Workers Week, Ntl.: September 22-28

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National Employ Older Workers Week, observed annually during the last full week of September, focuses on recognizing the vital role of older workers in the U.S. workforce. The week aims to increase awareness of the older labor segment and develop strategies to harness their potential.

The definition of "older worker" typically refers to individuals who are 55 years and older. This demographic is a growing portion of the workforce. Sixty-four percent of adults between 55 and 65 are in the workforce as of 2022, one point higher than the overall percentage of adults in the workforce and ten points higher than the percentage of adults 18-24.

During the week, the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) is showcased. SCSEP is a program that offers on-the-job skills training to older individuals with limited financial resources, helping over one million older Americans enter the workforce.

HIRING HURDLES FOR OLDER PEOPLE IN THE APPLICATION PROCESS

Older workers face unique challenges in the workplace. They often encounter age-related biases and stereotypes, impacting their employment opportunities and professional growth.

Despite laws protecting workers over 40 from job discrimination, many techniques used to acquire jobs now actively, whether intentional or not, exclude older workers from the screening. Some of the automated system tactics used widely by companies to remove older workers, add burdens to the application process, and create hurdles include:

Requiring self-recorded videos, a pre-interview interview, with applications.
Requiring audio Q&A recordings of questions prior to a tender of interview.
Requiring MBAs rather than equivalent work experience and excluding applications without MBAs.
Using algorithms to exclude applications with work experience before a certain year.
Using algorithms to exclude applications with college degrees before a specific date.
Requiring technological knowledge and skills in the application process irrelevant to the position.
Forcing people with decades of experience to take basic skills tests to apply for a position.

SEVEN ADVANTAGES OF HIRING OLDER WORKERS

Older workers have been working with technology their entire lives. They are the people who had to learn from scratch how to use computers, actually know what a C prompt is, and what life was like before the Internet—they built it. Their youth occurred during the rise of computers, biotech, and gaming. They know how to communicate full thoughts—in complete sentences.

Hiring older workers can offer several advantages over hiring younger workers. Here are seven.

Experience and Knowledge:
Older workers bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to their roles, including soft skills, deep industry knowledge, skills honed over many years, and practical insights into business operations and strategies.

Work Ethic and Reliability:
Older workers grew up with and have a strong work ethic and reliability. They often demonstrate commitment to their jobs, show up on time, and take pride in their work, leading to higher productivity and quality output.

Lower Turnover Rates:
Older employees have lower turnover rates than younger workers. This stability reduces the costs and disruptions associated with the frequent hiring and training new staff.

Mentoring Abilities:
With their extensive experience, older workers can serve as mentors and trainers for younger employees. They can pass on valuable skills, knowledge, and professional wisdom, helping to develop the next generation of workers.

Strong Communication Skills:
Older workers often possess strong communication skills honed over years of professional and life experiences. This skill is invaluable in roles that require negotiation, customer service, or team collaboration.

Adaptability:
Contrary to some stereotypes, many older workers are adaptable and willing to learn new technologies or methods. Their willingness to adapt can be a significant asset in an ever-changing workplace.

Diverse Perspectives:
Older workers can provide diverse perspectives that enhance creativity and problem-solving within a team. Their different life experiences can contribute to a more rounded and comprehensive approach to business challenges.

Mature people grew up in a world before social media and fragmented information, where knowing how to add and subtract in your head and understanding a map and how to read it didn't make them helpless without a phone. Their viewpoint, experience, and wisdom manifested in the temporal rather than the digital world. Throughout their lives, they experienced dramatic shifts in society and technology, more change than any previous generation before or since, making them highly adaptable, steadfast, and grounded.

People in their 50s, 60s, and early 70s came of age in generations when children were expected to be self-sufficient, accountable, and responsible. As children, they made decisions about time management, what to say and think, and practiced unregulated dispute resolution. Older adults grew up taking risks and learning and were not coddled or shielded from criticism, strife, opinions they didn't like, or life lessons. These attitudes make them particularly adept at diplomacy, seeing the big picture, and considering alternative ideas.

National Employ Older Workers Week highlights the importance of diverse workplaces that challenge and leverage older employees. It seeks to promote practices that help them succeed, such as flexible work arrangements, ergonomic work environments, and opportunities for ongoing professional development. The focus of this week is particularly crucial given the demographic shifts in the U.S., with an increasing number of adults aged 55 and over continuing or re-entering the workforce.

National Employ Older Workers Week is the exclusive official week in the United States supporting older workers.

Africa

Mar

Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Week (US-CO): March 13-16

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The National Conference on Pediatric Health Care is an annual event organized by the National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners (NAPNAP). This conference serves as an education and networking event for nurse practitioners specializing in pediatric care. It encompasses a wide range of sessions tailored to meet nurse practitioners' practice needs in primary, acute, and unique care settings. The event offers opportunities for learning, networking, and discovering new aspects of pediatric health care.

A Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) is a registered nurse (RN) with advanced clinical education and training in pediatric health care. PNPs provide various services, including diagnosing illnesses, conducting exams, and prescribing medication. They often work in primary care settings to provide specialized health care to children from infancy through adulthood.

NAPNAP is a professional organization that advocates for children's health and advances the nursing practice of PNPs. They also offer a virtual conference experience, providing on-demand access to recordings of the live presentations from the Denver conference, which will be available from mid-May through the end of July.

For those interested in becoming certified, NAPNAP also offers certification review courses for the PNCB pediatric primary and acute care exams in conjunction with the conference.

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Mar

Phace Syndrome Awareness Week: March 17-24

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International Phace Syndrome Awareness Week raises awareness about Phace Syndrome and supports families affected by the condition. Phace Syndrome is a rare disease that affects multiple body systems and is characterized by several abnormalities that co-occur more frequently than expected. The acronym PHACE stands for Posterior fossa anomalies, Hemangioma, Arterial anomalies, Cardiac anomalies, and Eye anomalies. These represent the disorder's most common signs and symptoms. The syndrome is more prevalent in girls than in boys, and the severity and specific symptoms can vary significantly among affected individuals. Most children with PHACE Syndrome do not exhibit all the major symptoms associated with the disorder. The most conspicuous sign of Phace Syndrome is often a hemangioma, an overgrowth of blood vessels, which typically appears on the face, head, or neck. The exact cause of Phace Syndrome is currently unknown. The treatment for Phace Syndrome varies based on the specific symptoms and their severity. It often involves a multidisciplinary approach, including specialists in dermatology, cardiology, neurology, and ophthalmology. Treatment may include medications, surgery, or other interventions to manage the symptoms. The Phace Syndrome Community and The Phaces Foundation of Canada established the awareness week to create awareness about the syndrome. It includes various activities such as webinars, research on the disease, and viewing educational videos to increase understanding of what Phace Syndrome is and how to improve the health and quality of life of those affected.

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