All - Leep Calendar

National Embroidery Month offers a platform for enthusiasts and artisans to showcase their skills, share techniques, and keep the rich embroidery traditions alive. Workshops, exhibitions, and social media challenges encourage participation from both novices and experts, fostering a sense of community and continuity in this historic art form. It is a time for reflection on the embroidery journey, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a celebrated and enduring craft. Embroidery dates back to the Cro-Magnon period, approximately 30,000 BC. Fossilized remains hint at decorative stitching on animal skins. However, it was in ancient China, around 3500 BC, when silk thread, pearls, and precious stones began embellishing the garments of the elite. As the centuries passed, embroidery evolved, traveling along the Silk Road. The Islamic world embraced it with intricate geometric and floral designs. By the medieval period, Europe had adopted embroidery, making it a symbol of status and wealth, with the famous Bayeux Tapestry, created in the 11th century, being a testament to its significance in storytelling and art. The Renaissance further elevated embroidery, introducing new techniques and materials, such as gold and silver threads. Embroidery became a craft and an art form, with schools dedicated to teaching the skill to young women, who used it to demonstrate their refinement and skill. The Industrial Revolution in the 19th century brought significant changes. The invention of the embroidery machine in 1828 by Josue Heilmann marked a pivotal moment, democratizing the art and making it more accessible. Hand embroidery, once a necessity, became a hobby. The 21st century has seen a resurgence of interest in hand embroidery. National Embroidery Mont honors this ancient craft within the DIY and craft cultures throughout the world.

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Feb

Free Open Source Software Month (FOSS)(1998): February

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Free and Open Source Software Month (FOSS February) was initiated in 2017 by Onyx Point, Inc. to create awareness and celebrate the principles of open source software. February marks founding the Open Source Initiative (OSI) in 1998. FOSS aims to promote open-source methods, create a shared platform for the open-source community, and dispel common misconceptions about open-source software. Activities during the month include webinars, hackathons, blog articles, and social media engagement to highlight the benefits and initiatives of open-source projects.

The concept of open-source software predates the term to the early days of computing. One of the first examples of freely distributed and shared software embodying open-source principles was the A-2 system, developed by a team led by Dr. Grace Hopper in the early 1950s. This software was provided at no cost and encouraged users to share improvements. However, as it's known today, the formal open-source movement started much later, with the term "open-source software" being coined only in the late 1990s.

OPEN-SOURCE SOFTWARE IS EVERYWHERE

The most common types of open-source software used daily by many people include:

Operating Systems: Linux distributions like Ubuntu and Fedora are widely used in various environments.

Web Browsers: Mozilla Firefox is an open-source browser popular for its customization and privacy features.

Office Suites: LibreOffice and Apache OpenOffice offer alternatives to proprietary office suites with similar functionalities for word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations.

Media Players: VLC Media Player is renowned for its ability to play a wide range of media formats.

Graphic Design Tools: GIMP and Inkscape are used for image editing and vector graphics, respectively.

Web Servers: Apache and NGINX host websites.

Database Management: MySQL and PostgreSQL complete database management tasks.

Programming Tools: Git, a version control system, is essential for developers in managing source code changes.

These software types are integral to various personal and professional computing tasks, demonstrating the versatility and importance of open-source software in everyday technology use.

Free and Open Source Software Month is an opportunity to explore open-source software options and appreciate the freedom these programs provide.

Africa

Feb

Haiku Writing Month, Ntl.: February

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National Haiku Writing Month, known as NaHaiWriMo, is a celebration dedicated to writing Haiku poetry. It was established in February 2011 by Michael Dylan Welch, a poet and author from Washington, USA. The concept was inspired by National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), aiming to encourage people to write at least one haiku each day throughout February. This initiative promotes the art of haiku and fosters a global community of poets and enthusiasts who share a passion for this poetic form.

Haiku is a traditional Japanese poetry known for its simplicity, brevity, and depth. Traditionally, a haiku follows a 5-7-5 syllable structure across three lines. This structure, however, needs to be more strictly adhered to in English haiku, focusing more on capturing a moment or emotion in just a few words. Haiku often includes a kigo (a seasonal word) and is written in the present tense to create a sense of immediacy. Despite its brief format, haiku can convey different interpretations and layers of meaning.

National Haiku Writing Month occurs every February, from the 1st to the 28th (or 29th in leap years). It welcomes participants of all ages, nationalities, and writing experiences. The month-long celebration is not a competition but an opportunity for individuals to express their creativity through haiku and to connect with others who appreciate this poetic form.

The history of haiku dates back to the late 1600s in Japan, with Matsuo Bashō recognized as one of its greatest masters. Initially, haiku prose was written in Japanese, but the form gained international recognition and evolved. Modern haiku in Japanese and English often vary from the traditional 5-7-5 structure and explore a broader range of subjects beyond nature.

These haiku aim to capture the essence of each moment, adhering to the traditional 5-7-5 syllable structure. The first reflects the bond between a man and his dog, while the second paints the serene beauty of a sunset over the ocean.

MAN'S BEST FRIEND
Old man and his dog,
Footprints blend in the pathway,
Silent companions.

WATCHING THE SUNSET
Sunset kisses sea,
Horizon in tangerine,
Waves whisper goodnight.

During National Haiku Writing Month, people are encouraged to write and share their haiku on social media platforms and participate in community events such as workshops and open mic nights. Haiku Writing Month helps spread the joy of haiku writing and connects people globally through poetry.

Africa

Feb

Hong Kong Arts Festival (CH-HK): February 22 - March 28

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The Hong Kong Arts Festival, inaugurated in 1973, is an annual event that has become a cornerstone of the city's cultural landscape. Each year, typically between February and March, the festival transforms Hong Kong into a hub of artistic activity, showcasing diverse performances and cultural events. The primary objective of the festival is to enrich Hong Kong's cultural life and promote the work of both local and international performing artists. It has grown to be one of Asia's most significant arts festivals, attracting thousands of artists and visitors from around the globe. The festival's programming is expansive, featuring a mix of music, dance, theatre, and opera with contemporary and traditional performances, showcasing talent and artistic disciplines. Several well-known artists have participated in the festival, including Cecilia Bartoli, José Carreras, Yo-Yo Ma, Philip Glass, and Mikhail Baryshnikov. Additionally, the festival actively promotes local creative talent. The art fair has commissioned and produced over 200 local productions, including theater, chamber opera, and contemporary dance, for successful local and overseas runs. In addition to live performances, the festival strongly emphasizes educational events and opportunities for young people to explore the performing arts. This commitment is evident in its "H.K.A.F Young Friends" program, which has connected with over 782,000 students of varying ages since 1992. The festival also supports local talent by commissioning and producing local works in theater, chamber opera, Cantonese opera, music, and contemporary dance. The Hong Kong Arts Festival showcases artistic excellence and serves as a platform for cultural exchange and dialogue. It is vital in promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity by presenting artistic expressions from different traditions and backgrounds. The festival's impact extends beyond the performances, contributing significantly to the city's cultural tourism and providing a platform for emerging artists to shine alongside established performers. As a non-profit organization, the Hong Kong Arts Festival sustains itself through box office promotions, private donations, and a government matching scheme, which matches the funds raised by the festival. The festival's success is a testament to the dedicated team of organizers and volunteers working tirelessly to create an enriching experience for performers and audiences.

Africa

Feb

Hoof Care Month, Intl.: February

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American Ferriers Magazine champions International Hoof Care Month throughout February. It emphasizes the significance of hoof care for animals like horses, camelids, and other hoofed animals. Its goal is to promote awareness of hoof health. The person caring for hooves, especially for horses, is known as a farrier. Farriers specialize in trimming and balancing hooves and placing shoes on their hooves, if necessary. Their work is crucial for the health and well-being of hoofed animals. Horses, mules, and donkeys are unique for shoeing. Camels do not typically wear shoes like horses. The structure and nature of a camel's foot are quite different from that of a horse. Camels have soft, cushioned footpads well adapted to their natural environments, often sandy or rocky terrains. These footpads help them walk easily on such surfaces without the additional protection that horseshoes provide. Camel hooves are smaller and less exposed than horse hooves. Proper hoof care is essential because hooves are critical for an animal's mobility and overall health. Inadequate hoof care can lead to various problems, including infections, lameness, and joint issues. Poor hooves impact an animal's ability to move and feed. For herd animals, their hooves' health determines their ability to keep up with the group, increasing their vulnerability to predators. July also hosts National Farriers Week, focusing on the career needs of hoof care professionals.

Africa

Feb

Pull Your Sofa Off the Wall Month: February

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"Pull Your Sofa Off the Wall Month" plays on the desire for "Spring cleaning" and is championed by Merry Maids, Inc.

Dust bunnies, crumbs, and other litter love to hide behind and under furniture. Just because you can't see them doesn't mean they're not there. Mice, insects, and other pests find them, and thank you for the bounty. That's where pulling your sofa off the wall comes in. Proper maintenance and cleaning of these areas are crucial for maintaining a clean and healthy living environment. The event highlights the need for deep cleaning in areas often overlooked during regular cleaning routines.

HOW TO CLEAN A ROOM

There is an art to cleaning well, beginning from the top down. The very last thing you do is clean the floor. Why? Gravity. Dust, dirt, and dinge fall to the ground. You also want to start from the walls and work toward the center of the room.

To thoroughly clean a room:

Declutter—Start by removing any clutter. Put away items that are out of place. Decluttering includes washing the dishes in the sink, picking up the laundry on the floor, and dispensing with that pile of trinkets near the front door.
Dust—Dust all surfaces, starting from the top and working down. Remember areas like ceiling fans, window sills, and baseboards.
Clean Furniture—Wipe down furniture with a suitable cleaner. Pay attention to handles and frequently touched areas.
Clean Windows and Mirrors—Use a glass cleaner for streak-free windows and mirrors.
Disinfect—Use disinfectants on high-touch areas like doorknobs, countertops, light switches, and remote controls.
Vacuum or Sweep—Clean the floor, starting from one corner of the room and moving systematically across.
Mop—If you have non-carpeted floors, mop after sweeping or vacuuming.
Final Touches—Replace any items you moved for cleaning, fluff pillows, and straighten decorations.

Cleaning isn't fun, but it is necessary for a healthy home. Use Pull Your Sofa Off the Wall Month as an inspiration to get a jump on your Spring cleaning.

Africa

Feb

Vegan Cuisine Month: February

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February is "Vegan Cuisine Month," focusing on the eating part of veganism. There are already multiple vegan-inspired events throughout the calendar, including November, Vegan Days, Love a Vegan Day, Vegan Leather Day (synthetic pleather), and others. The American Vegan Society decided that more was needed and added another month to promote their unique lifestyle. Unlike vegetarianism or pescetarianism, veganism is a lifestyle that reaches into all areas of your life, including what you wear, how you bathe, what you eat, and even your entertainment choices.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO "GO VEGAN?"

Vegan is an ultra-austere form of vegetarianism, requiring drastic lifestyle changes and staunch adherence. The idea began in 1944 with British woodworker Donald Watson (1911-2005), who coined the term "vegan," defined its parameters, and founded the Vegan Society. Unlike vegetarianism, with its roots in ancient religions, veganism is agnostic and tied to the fringes of the animal rights movement.

Avowed vegans refrain from eating, using, working with, wearing, or enjoying human activities with animals. There is significant heavy lifting and abstinence if one wants to be vegan rather than vegetarian. Fortunately, veganism was created after internal combustion, so using transportation is allowed.

GENERAL VEGAN GUIDELINES

1) No eating meat, poultry, game, dairy, fish, eggs, honey, gelatin, or aioli (mayonnaise).
2) No clothing, products, or home furnishings made from animals, including leather, fur, wool, ivory, bone, shells, or silk.
3) No products tested on animals; no services using animals, including transportation.
4) No attending, participating, or watching entertainment that uses animals, including film, television, circuses, aquariums, zoos, races, sports, rodeos, hunting, and wild animal parks.
5) No animal husbandry.
6) Most vegans, but not all, are antivaccine and anti-medication due to the necessity of testing new drugs and vaccines on animals first.
7) Extreme vegans reject having pets, though the pet issue is unsettled and debated in the community.

WHAT IS A VEGETARIAN?

In contrast, most vegetarians eat animal products like milk, cheese, yogurt, and eggs. The key is that vegetarians don't eat dead animals. Honey is a staple, often replacing sugar in recipes. Vegetarians will wear silk, wool, and leather, visit zoos, enjoy films with animals, and support humane farming and ranching. Vegetarians, as a group, do not have issues with medication, and many happily have pets. Pescatarians are a hybrid between omnivores (most global humans who eat plant and animal-based diets) and vegetarians. Pescatarians eat fish but do not eat beef, lamb, pork, game, or poultry.

Vegan Cuisine Month is another month in the calendar to try vegan foods and sample the lifestyle. It is fitting, perhaps, as The American Vegan Society was founded in 1960 by Freya Dinshah, the author of "The Vegan Kitchen," the first vegan cookbook in the United States.

Africa

Feb

Apprenticeship Week, Ntl.(UK): February 5-11

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Britain's National Apprenticeship Week, inaugurated in 2008, is an annual event celebrating and promoting apprenticeships across the United Kingdom. The week serves as a focal point to bring together employers, apprentices, and educators, highlighting the impact and benefits of apprenticeships on individuals, businesses, and the broader economy.

The primary purpose of National Apprenticeship Week is to encourage more people to choose apprenticeships as a fast track to a great career and to encourage employers to offer apprenticeship positions. The week provides a platform for sharing apprenticeship success stories, not only to inspire others but also to showcase the diverse range of opportunities available across various industries.

Throughout the week, a variety of activities take place across the country. These include open days, events, workshops, and competitions organized by schools, colleges, employers, and apprenticeship providers. Potential apprentices can meet with current apprentices and employers, gaining a real insight into the world of apprenticeships and the careers they can lead to. Employers and training providers also promote apprenticeship vacancies and programs during this time.

National Apprenticeship Service, part of the UK government, supports the week and works to ensure that apprenticeships are a respected and valued route into a range of professional careers. They provide resources and support for organizing events and activities during the week.

TEN CAREER PATHS THAT INCLUDE APPRENTICESHIPS

Electrician – Apprenticeship programs for electricians provide hands-on experience and technical instruction in electrical systems, wiring, safety protocols, and sometimes even renewable energy.

Plumber – Apprenticeships in plumbing cover many skills, including pipe installation, system maintenance, and troubleshooting plumbing issues in residential and commercial buildings.

Carpenter – Carpentry apprenticeships offer training in woodworking, construction methods, blueprint reading, and project planning.

Welder – Welding apprenticeships focus on different welding techniques, metal properties, and safety procedures necessary for a welding and metal fabrication career.

Automotive Mechanic – These apprenticeships provide practical experience in vehicle maintenance, repair, diagnostics and sometimes specialize in certain vehicles or systems.

Chef – Culinary apprenticeships offer hands-on training in food preparation, kitchen management, menu planning, and cooking techniques in a professional kitchen environment.

Hairdresser/Barber – Apprenticeships in hairdressing and barbering include training in hair cutting, styling, coloring, and various beauty treatments and customer service skills.

HVAC Technician – Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) apprenticeships cover installing, maintaining, and repairing heating and cooling systems in residential and commercial buildings.

IT Technician – Information Technology apprenticeships provide training in computer systems, network maintenance, and software development and sometimes specialize in specific areas like cybersecurity or data analysis.

Masonry – Apprenticeships in masonry offer training in bricklaying, stonework, concrete finishing, and other construction techniques related to building and repairing structures with stone, brick, and concrete.

National Apprenticeship Week has grown significantly since its inception, with each year seeing an increase in participation from all sectors. It plays a crucial role in shaping the future of apprenticeships in the UK, helping to break down stereotypes and expanding the apprenticeship model into new industries and sectors.

Africa

Feb

Chastity Week: February 11-17

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Chastity Week promotes abstinence and purity for young Christians during Valentine's Day. The American Life League, an organization that believes sexual relations should only occur within the bonds of heterosexual marriage, champions the event. To prevent pre-marital sex, the organization encourages activities and discussions centered on abstinence, purity, and related moral or ethical principles, including educational workshops, seminars, pledges, community gatherings, and various forms of outreach and awareness campaigns.

Africa

Jan

Chilcano Week (PE): January 12-19

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Chilcano Week in Peru is a celebration dedicated to one of the country's most beloved cocktails, the Chilcano. The event gained popularity in the early 2010s. Its inception is a testament to the growing interest in Peruvian cuisine and beverages nationally and internationally.

The Chilcano cocktail, traditionally made with Pisco (a Peruvian grape brandy), lime juice, ginger ale, and a few drops of bitters, is a staple in Peruvian bars and restaurants. Chilcano Week began to celebrate this classic drink and to promote Pisco, an essential component of Peruvian cultural heritage.

Throughout the week, participating bars and restaurants across Peru, especially in cities like Lima and Cusco, offer special menus and promotions featuring various versions of the Chilcano. These establishments often experiment with new flavors and ingredients, showcasing Pisco's versatility and Peruvian mixology's creativity.

In addition to enjoying Chilcanos, people participate in a variety of events organized during the week. These can include mixology classes, Pisco tastings, and workshops where attendees learn about the history of Pisco and the art of cocktail making. Some events also focus on pairing Chilcanos with traditional Peruvian dishes, providing a comprehensive experience of Peru's rich culinary culture.

HOW IS GRAPE WINE DIFFERENT THAN GRAPE BRANDY?

Grape brandy and grape wine are products derived from grapes, but they are distinct in their production processes, characteristics, and consumption.

GRAPE WINE

Fermenting crushed grapes using yeast creates wine. The yeast consumes the sugar in the grapes and converts it into alcohol and carbon dioxide. This fermentation process usually lasts a few days to a week.

Wines typically have an alcohol content ranging from about 8% to 15%. There are numerous varieties of wine, including red, white, rosé, and sparkling, each with its specific production method and grape variety. Wine does not require a distillation or aging process to alter its alcohol content or flavor profile significantly.

GRAPE BRANDY

Distilling fermented grape juice creates brandy. The distillation process involves heating the wine to create steam, which is then cooled to form a liquid. Brandies typically have a higher alcohol content than wine, usually around 35% to 60% alcohol by volume.

After distillation, brandy is traditionally aged in wooden casks. The aging process can last several years, significantly influencing the brandy's flavor, color, and quality. Brandy is usually consumed in smaller quantities than wine, often served as a digestif or used in cocktails.

Both grape wine and grape brandy originate from grapes; wine is a fermented beverage, and brandy is a distilled beverage with a higher alcohol content.

Chilcano Week plays a significant role in supporting local businesses, particularly boutique producers of Pisco. It boosts tourism and fosters a sense of pride in Peru's national products and traditions. The week-long event has become a fixture in Peru's cultural calendar, attracting locals and tourists eager to explore the flavors and traditions of Peruvian cuisine.

Africa

Feb

Love Teaching Week: February 12 -19

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The Department of Defense Education Activity's (DoDEA) #LoveTeaching Week in February is an opportunity for educators to celebrate their profession and its impact globally. The campaign focuses on elevating the teaching profession. It's a time for educators to share their passion for teaching and highlight their significant role in shaping students' lives, especially within the unique context of military-connected families. DoDEA teachers participate by sharing their personal stories, experiences, and why they are passionate about teaching. This sharing occurs across various social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, creating a space for educators to connect, inspire, and support each other. The I Love Teaching campaign empowers teachers to express their commitment and allows the community, including students, parents, and other educators, to engage with these stories. This interaction fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the teaching profession. The DoDEA utilizes the week to attract new talent for the upcoming school year by highlighting the rewarding aspects of teaching within DoDEA and encouraging passionate educators to consider joining the team. Overall, #LoveTeaching Week is a powerful reminder of the impact dedicated educators have on their students. It's a celebration that honors current teachers and seeks to inspire the next generation of educators within the DoDEA system.

Africa

Feb

Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show.: February 15-25

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The Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, a prestigious and celebrated equestrian calendar event, first occurred in 1955. Held annually in Scottsdale, Arizona, it began as a small gathering and has since blossomed into one of the world's largest and most exciting displays of Arabian horses. The show's inception was driven by the Arabian Horse Association of Arizona, aiming to showcase Arabian horses' beauty, versatility, and athletic abilities. Over the years, it has grown significantly in size and scope, attracting thousands of the finest Arabian horses worldwide. The primary purpose of the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show is to celebrate and promote the Arabian breed. The event includes competitions in various categories, such as halter, western and English pleasure, hunter, dressage, and jumping, highlighting the diverse talents of these horses. It is a significant stage for breeders, trainers, and owners to exhibit their horses and compete for prestigious titles and considerable prize money. Participation in the show is wide and varied. Professional horse trainers and breeders enter their finest animals in various competitive categories. Additionally, the event draws tens of thousands of spectators, including horse enthusiasts, potential buyers, and families looking for a day out. The show also features a trade fair with over 300 vendors selling goods ranging from art, jewelry, clothing, and horse care products. Apart from the competitive aspect, the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show is also known for its charitable contributions. The event supports local charities each year, making it a significant contributor to community welfare and a major equestrian event. The Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show is not just a competition but a celebration of Arabian heritage, an exhibition of equine excellence, and a social event that brings together people with a shared passion for Arabian horses. It's a key event in the equestrian world, widely recognized for its grandeur, competitive spirit, and cultural impact.

Africa

Feb

Solo Diners Eat Out Week: February 1-7

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Michelin Star recipient Dirt Candy, a New York City vegetarian restaurant, initiated Solo Diners Eat Out Week after realizing solo diners are a significant segment of the restaurant-going public. Solo Diners Eat Out Week celebrates the joy of dining alone and seeks to break down any stigma associated with it. The week acknowledges the growing number of single households and individuals who dine out alone, whether for convenience, personal enjoyment, or as a means of self-care. The event occurs during the first seven days of February. As the event gained traction, restaurants in other cities and countries picked up the mantel by offering special menus, discounts, or promotions explicitly aimed at solo diners, encouraging them to visit and enjoy a meal independently. Restaurants also seek to create more welcoming environments for solo diners, such as offering communal tables, bar seating, small tables, reading materials, or engaging solo activities. Social media features selfies of solo diners, restaurant recommendations, and various hashtags fostering a sense of community and shared experience among solo diners. Check local listings for restaurants participating in Solo Diners Eat Out Week.

Africa

Jan

Close-up Photographer of the Year Competition: January 9

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The Close-Up Photographer of the Year (CUPOTY) Photography Awards, established in 2018, is an annual celebration of close-up, macro, and micro photography. The awards promote the often-overlooked intricate details of our world, promoting a unique form of photographic artistry. By emphasizing the smaller scales of life and the universe, the CUPOTY encourages photographers to explore and capture the beauty and complexity of details not visible to the naked eye.

This prestigious competition draws entries from photographers around the globe, eager to demonstrate their skills in capturing the minute details of their subjects. The competition is divided into several categories, including animals, plants, insects, and an open category, allowing for a diverse range of subjects and creative approaches.

The CUPOTY awards occur annually, with the entry period typically opening in the year's first quarter. Winners are announced later in the year, often in the last quarter, showcasing an array of stunning images that highlight the marvels of the microscopic world. Winning entries showcase technical proficiency and artistic vision and reveal the extraordinary details of ordinary objects.

Through these awards, the CUPOTY not only honors the skills of photographers but also educates and inspires the public about the wonders of the world seen through a close-up lens. This event has rapidly gained recognition and prestige, becoming a significant date in the photography community's calendar.

CURRENT CATEGORIES

ANIMALS
BUTTERFLIES & DRAGONFLIES
FUNGI
HUMAN-MADE
INSECTS
INTIMATE LANDSCAPE
INVERTEBRATE PORTRAIT
MICRO
PLANTS
UNDERWATER
YOUNG

The CUPOTY contest accepts submissions through early July. The competition welcomed participants worldwide, regardless of age, and accepted images taken with any camera, phone, or microscope. The contest included various categories such as Animals, Insects, Butterflies & Dragonflies, and more, along with a Young CUPOTY award for entrants aged 17 or under.

Africa

Jan

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Africa