All - Leep Calendar

International Choreography Day marks the birthdate (in the Julian calendar used by the Russian empire at the time) of George Balanchine on January 9, 1904, in Saint Petersburg, Russia. He is affectionately called "Mr. B." in the ballet community.

Balanchine is the reason for the word choreography, a term coined to describe the revolutionary dancing he created for the Rogers and Hammerstein play "On Your Toes," which debuted on stage on April 11, 1936. He is also considered the father of American ballet.

Choreography is the art of designing movement sequences that specify motion and form. The concept began with court dances and folk traditions, gradually refining into an art form through the adoption of ballet in Renaissance Italy and France. As ballet evolved, directors experimented with storytelling, musicality, and expressive movement. Balanchine took ballet to the next level.

MR. B COMES TO BROADWAY

Balanchine hails from a classical dance background. He trained at the Imperial Ballet School in Saint Petersburg and later worked in Diaghilev's Ballets Russes, one of the most influential ballet companies of the 20th century. His early work included a fusion of classical technique with avant-garde concepts.

In 1933, Balanchine moved to the United States. By 1935, he was commissioned to orchestrate the groundbreaking dance scenes in the Broadway play "On Your Toes." As mentioned above, the term choreography was coined to describe his work. It was so good the world needed a new word.

Twelve years later, he co-founded the New York City Ballet in 1948, which became a pivotal platform for his choreographic innovations. His collaboration with composer Igor Stravinsky in the 1950s and 1960s resulted in iconic works like "Agon" and "The Firebird," where the integration of contemporary music and innovative choreography pushed the boundaries of what ballet could be.

MR B'S CHOREOGRAPHIC STYLE

Balanchine diverged from the narrative-driven ballets of the 19th century, focusing instead on "plotless" ballets where movement, music, and pure form narrated the story, known as neoclassical ballet. It stripped away elaborate costumes and sets, emphasizing speed, athleticism, and precision. This approach highlighted the dancers' technique and the music's rhythms, offering a fresh perspective on ballet that contrasted sharply with the opulence and narrative focus of traditional ballets like those of Marius Petipa.

Balanchine's influence extended beyond his choreographic works. He was a master teacher, emphasizing a distinct aesthetic in his dancers, marked by high extensions, speed, and precision. His teaching methods and artistic philosophy greatly influenced the training of dancers in America and around the world. International Choreography Day is a tribute to him and his legacy.

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Jan

Balloon Ascension Day (1793): January 9

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Balloon Ascension Day marks the anniversary of the first balloon flight in the United States on January 9, 1793, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The 18th century marks the dawn of human flight. This era of innovation began when the Montgolfier brothers conducted the first successful manned flight in a hot air balloon in Paris, France, in 1783. It ignited the imagination of the world and an interest in balloon travel.

Following this pioneering flight, the public and scientists across the world entertained the novelty and potential of balloon flight for transportation and exploration. People COULD fly!

In the United States, on January 9, 1793, Jean Pierre Blanchard, a French balloonist, made the first balloon ascent in the Americas from the Walnut Street Prison in Philadelphia, the capital of the United States at the time, making it the first time a balloon had taken flight in the country. In the crowd, President George Washington watched with members of the federal government, along with a crowd of curious onlookers, attended the event. The President even gave Blanchard a signed pass to ensure his safe passage. You see, at the time, the concept of air travel was so new nobody knew where he might land!

Blanchard, an experienced aeronaut, had previously made balloon ascents in Europe. Ultimately, his American flight lasted around 46 minutes and covered approximately 15 miles. He landed in New Jersey.

While the practical utility of balloons for transportation remained limited due to their unpredictability and the inability to steer them effectively, they laid the groundwork for future advancements in aviation.

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Jan

Save the Eagles Day: January 10

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The story of "Save the Eagles Day" is a tale of two birds, a community, and a grove of cottonwood trees in one of the more unlikely states, New Jersey.

Why unlikely? Well, New Jersey is often the butt of jokes (There is a "Be Kind to New Jersey Day" in the calendar). Despite its motto as "the Garden State," the state isn't exactly known for its gardens. It's better known for big hair, jug handles, tacky gambling venues, loudness, and as that place with an awful turnpike between Philadelphia and New York City. It's not the kind of place where one expects to see bald eagles soaring majestically over abandoned factories and water towers, but that is precisely where this pair of eagles decided to call home.

AL AND ALICE

Al and Alice were two bald eagles and one of five nesting pairs in Bergen County, New Jersey. In 2011, the eagles took up residence in a tall cottonwood in Overpeck Park, quickly becoming a focal point for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts and a beloved addition to daily life for the surrounding community.

Then, like many homes in rural areas, the tranquility of this natural haven was threatened by proposed developmental projects. The planned construction endangered not only their nest but also the survival of their species in the area. In the 1970s, bald eagles were approaching extinction due to habitat destruction and the use of DDT (a toxic insecticide). Over the following decades, the eagles made a slow but steady comeback. The development risked reversing their gains.

SAVE OUR EAGLES

The community swung into action to save their beloved birds. As word spread about the impending threat, the Bergen Audubon Society, a local organization dedicated to protecting and studying birds, stepped forward. Together with community leaders, the non-profit spearheaded a campaign to save the eagles' habitat, rallying the community and garnering widespread support.

The response from the community was overwhelming. People from all walks of life united and joined the cause. Schoolchildren wrote letters, local artists created eagle-themed artworks, and residents attended town meetings to voice their concerns. The movement gained momentum, capturing the attention of local authorities and national media outlets.

Ultimately, the collective efforts of the Bergen Audubon Society and the community paid off. The development project received modifications to protect the eagles' habitat. This victory was not just a triumph for environmental conservation but also a testament to the power of community action.

A NATIONAL MOVEMENT

Recognizing this significant achievement, "Save the Eagles Day" was established in 2015. The event spread to communities across the United States, serving as a clarion call to preserve local wildlife and various species of eagles, hawks, and wildlife with educational activities, guided bird-watching tours, and community gatherings. It serves as a reminder of the enduring bond between humans and nature and the importance of safeguarding our natural treasures for future generations.

Africa

Jan

Heritage Treasures Day (UK): January 11

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Heritage Treasures Day, annually commemorated in the United Kingdom, is an initiative of the Heritage Fund UK. Its creation emerged from a deep-seated appreciation for the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the United Kingdom and has become a vital part of the nation's calendar.

The awareness event preserves and accentuates the diverse historical assets of the country, whether in the arts, buildings, geography, or natural history. Heritage Fund, renowned for its stewardship in safeguarding heritage sites, recognized the necessity of a dedicated day to raise public awareness and encourage engagement with the nation's historical treasures.

The purpose of Heritage Treasures Day is to serve as a poignant reminder of the United Kingdom's multifaceted heritage, ranging from historic buildings and monuments to natural landscapes and intangible cultural traditions. Heritage refers to more than buildings. It includes writers like William Shakespeare and Robert Burns, artists JMW Turner and Francis Bacon, and even entertainers like The Beatles.

Seven of the United Kingdom's best-known heritage treasures include:

1. Stonehenge—Wiltshire, England. Stonehenge is a prehistoric monument famed for its ring of standing stones and a symbol of mystery and ancient history.

2. The Tower of London—River Thames in central London. Historically, it was a castle, prison, palace, or treasury; today, it houses the Crown Jewels and is a top tourist destination due to its rich, albeit sometimes gruesome, history.

3. Edinburgh Castle—Edinburgh, Scotland. This historic fortress witnessed many of the defining events of Scottish history.

4. The Roman Baths—Bath, England. The Roman Baths are a well-preserved ancient site and provide a unique insight into life during Roman-occupied Britain.

5. The British Museum—London. Created during the reign of Queen Victoria, this world-renowned museum houses a vast collection of world art and artifacts, including the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles.

6. Canterbury Cathedral—Canterbury, England. Established in 597 AD, the cathedral is renowned for its stunning architecture. It has been a pilgrimage site since the Middle Ages and is part of a World Heritage Site.

7. The Lake District—Northwest England. The Lake District is known for its picturesque lakes, forests, mountains, cultural landscape, and inclusion in the writings of William Wordsworth, Richard Adams, and Beatrix Potter.

Heritage Treasures Day typically involves educational workshops, guided tours, and exhibitions showcasing the United Kingdom's heritage.

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Jan

Classy Day (1922): January 17

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Classy Day marks the birthday of beloved American actress and animal rights activist Betty White. She was known for her grace and impeccable sense of being in public and private.

Betty White (January 17, 1922 - December 31, 2021) was renowned for her pioneering work in television; White's career spanned more than eight decades, marked by her versatility and enduring appeal.

White's career began in the late 1930s, and she quickly gained recognition for her work on the radio and later as a television host. She became a household name in the 1970s playing Sue Ann Nivens on the CBS sitcom "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," a performance that earned her two Emmy Awards.

However, her most beloved role came later when she portrayed Rose Nylund on the NBC sitcom "The Golden Girls" from 1985 to 1992. White's portrayal of the sweet-natured but often naive Rose earned her critical acclaim and another Emmy Award. The show became a cultural touchstone, celebrated for portraying older women in a feisty and positive way.

In addition to her television work, White was a passionate advocate for animal welfare, dedicating much of her life to various animal charities. Her work in this field was as significant to her legacy as her contributions to entertainment.

White's enduring popularity saw a resurgence in the 2000s with appearances in films and television, including hosting "Saturday Night Live" in 2010, following a grassroots campaign on social media. This appearance earned her yet another Emmy, solidifying her status as a television icon.

White was recognized for her longevity in the industry and her trailblazing role as a female television pioneer. She was one of the first women to exert control in front of and behind the camera and is remembered as a beloved figure whose wit, charm, and talent brought joy to generations of viewers. Classy Day celebrates her legacy.

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Jan

Museum Selfie Day: January 17

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Mar Dixon, a social media and audience development consultant in the arts sector, created Museum Selfie Day in 2014 to encourage people to visit and engage with museums.

The idea for Museum Selfie Day emerged from Dixon's observations of the evolving role of technology and social media in shaping cultural experiences. Recognizing the growing trend of selfie photography and its potential as a tool for engagement, Dixon proposed a day where visitors visit museums, mark their visit with selfies, and share them on social media platforms using the hashtag #MuseumSelfie. At first, the museums were cautious. Up until this point, photography was limited or prohibited inside of most. However, they also needed to engage younger people. The concept was simple yet innovative, combining the modern selfie phenomenon with the traditional museum setting.

Museum Selfie Day's impact extends beyond merely taking photos. It connects the public and museums, encouraging individuals to visit and explore these cultural institutions and share their experiences. It also allows exhibits and artwork to reach a broader audience, sparking interest in art, history, and science.

Within two years of its inception, Museum Selfie Day gained traction on social media, with museums and visitors worldwide participating enthusiastically. The day highlights the role of social media in modern-day cultural consumption and the importance of making museums accessible and appealing to a wider, tech-savvy audience.

Africa

Jan

Hot Buttered Rum Day (US/UK): January 17

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Hot Buttered Rum Day celebrates the classic cocktail craved for its warmth, richness, and indulgent flavor. This drink, traditionally enjoyed during the colder months, especially around the holidays, combines the sweetness of sugar, the richness of butter, and the complexity of rum, rounded off with spices for a comforting beverage.

The key ingredients of Hot Buttered Rum include dark rum, unsalted butter, brown sugar, and a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. These ingredients are combined with hot water or cider to create a soothing, warm cocktail. The butter adds a creamy texture, while the spices bring a festive aroma and flavor.

The origin of Hot Buttered Rum traces back to England and colonial America. Rum was a common commodity in England and its colonies as part of the Triangle Trade (which unfortunately also included slavery), and it became a popular ingredient in various drinks. Hot Buttered Rum originates with the colonial practice of adding rum to hot beverages, which likely evolved from earlier European traditions of spiced and heated wines and ciders.

Over time, Hot Buttered Rum evolved into today's recipe, becoming particularly associated with winter and holiday festivities. Its popularity endures due to its comforting warmth and the rich, complex flavors that make it a festive favorite.

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Jan

Acceptance, Intl. Day of (1984): January 20

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International Day of Acceptance, observed annually on January 20th, is dedicated to fostering social acceptance of disability and promoting the inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of life. This day marks a global effort to celebrate and embrace disability as a natural part of the human experience.

The awareness and advocacy day celebrates the life of Annie Hopkins, founder of 3E Love, a social entrepreneurial company with the mission of changing societal perceptions of disability. Hopkins, who had a disability herself, initiated the "Wheelchair Heart" symbol, representing love and acceptance. She died in 2009 at 24; Annie's family and friends declared January 20th, 1984, her birthday, the International Day of Acceptance in her memory.

International Day of Acceptance encourages people to publicly show their acceptance of people with disabilities. The day is not just about passive recognition but active participation in fostering a world where people with disabilities have equal opportunities and accessibility in society. It serves as a call to action for individuals, communities, and organizations to embrace diversity, including disabilities, and to work towards inclusivity in all areas of life.

Events and activities marking the day range from educational programs and awareness campaigns to social media movements, all aimed at promoting understanding, acceptance, and inclusive practices. The symbol of the Wheelchair Heart signifies support and solidarity while functioning as a tribute to Annie Hopkins' vision and legacy and a reminder of the ongoing effort required to create a more inclusive society for everyone.

Africa

Jan

Hyaluronic Acid Day, Ntl: January 21

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Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in the human body and is recognized for its role in skincare and medical treatments. It boosts the ability of skin to retain moisture, making it a key ingredient in many cosmetic and skincare products.

Knowledge of hyaluronic acid dates back to the 1930s when Karl Meyer and John Palmer first isolated it from bovine eyes. The men discovered that this substance, composed of sugar molecules, had an extraordinary capacity to bind to water, making it a groundbreaking discovery in biochemistry. Its ability to hold up to 1,000 times its weight in water makes it ideal for cosmetics and moisturizing products, including lotions, serums, and other skincare products.

In the human body, hyaluronic acid is found in the highest concentrations in the skin, connective tissues, and eyes. Its primary function is to retain water, which helps keep tissues well-lubricated and moist. Unfortunately, the body's ability to create it decreases with age, resulting in dry skin and wrinkles.

Beyond skincare, hyaluronic acid is used in certain eye surgeries, including cataract removal, corneal transplantation, retinal detachment repair, and natural fluids replacements. Additionally, it's common in injectable fillers used in cosmetic surgery, often to reduce wrinkles or add volume in some regions of the face.

Hyaluronic Acid Day was created by L'Oréal's brand La Roche Posay in 2022 to raise awareness of its importance in healthy skin care and to promote products containing it.

Africa

Jan

Sweatpants Day, Intl.: January 21

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Sweatpants Day appeared on the internet around 2009. It is an unofficial event with no sponsor. Still, sweatpants are worth celebrating. Here is where they came from.

ACTIVEWEAR & SWEATPANTS, A BRIEF HISTORY

The origin of activewear, or clothing specifically designed for exercise and physical activity, spans centuries to ancient civilizations, including the Chinese, Europeans, and Romans. Each of these cultures played a role in the evolution of clothing tailored to the demands of physical exertion.

CHINA

Physical fitness was highly valued in China throughout its dynasties, particularly concerning martial arts—clothing for these activities needed to be flexible and durable. The traditional attire, often made from silk or other natural fibers, was designed to allow a full range of motion while maintaining the wearer's comfort.

ROMANS

The Romans also highly valued physical training, especially for their soldiers. Their exercise attire was practical and functional, often consisting of tunics and simple garments that facilitated movement and provided comfort and support during vigorous activities.

EUROPE

The concept of a dedicated clothing line for exercise, as we understand it today, emerged much later. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, tailors designed specific garments to increase performance in particular sports and physical activities. Swimwear is the first, with Australian swimmer Annette Kellerman, who popularized the one-piece swimsuit in the early 20th century.

French tennis player René Lacoste was one of the earliest athletes to demand clothes that increased performance. In the 1920s, Lacoste, known for his prowess on the tennis court, created a short-sleeved, loosely-knitted piqué cotton shirt, a significant departure from the long-sleeved shirts players wore at the time. This shirt, which featured the now-iconic crocodile logo, was designed to provide greater comfort and mobility during the game.

SWEATPANT DEBUT

The "sweatpant" or "tracksuit" first appeared in the 1920s and is primarily attributed to Émile Camuset, the founder of the French sportswear brand Le Coq Sportif. Camuset, driven by his passion for sports and a keen understanding of athletes' needs, designed his garments to offer comfort and functionality during physical activities.

Originally, sweatpants were simple, loose-fitting trousers made from a thick, soft fabric known as jersey, which was comfortable and helped maintain muscle warmth. Athletes wore these over their competition shorts while warming up.

The tracksuit, which typically consists of two pieces - a jacket and matching pants - emerged around the same time. These sports fashion statements were lightweight and comfortable outfits that athletes could wear before and after competitions, during training, or while warming up. The tracksuit's versatility and comfort soon led to its adoption in various sports and physical activities.

YOGA PANTS

Yoga pants emerged as a distinct category within workout clothing around the late 1990s, driven by the increasing popularity of yoga in Western countries and the demand for more suitable and comfortable attire for the practice. They often looked like crop pajama bottoms with drawstring waistbands as yoga enthusiasts sought comfortable, functional, fitted, and flexible clothing to allow for the full range of motion required in yoga poses.

The modern yoga pant is skin tight, resembling the tights worn in Renaissance Europe by men. These snug-fitting, flexible leggings offer comfort with a wide elastic waistband. Materials generally include a blend of cotton, lycra, and nylon fabrics that are stretchable and moisture-wicking.

Today, sweatpants, tracksuits, and yoga pants are staples in sports, casual, leisure, and streetwear. The versatility and comfort of each have made them a favored choice for working out or simply hanging out in comfort wherever you may be.

Africa

Jan

Vietnam Conflict Ends (1973): January 27

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Vietnam Peace Day on January 27th commemorates the end of the Vietnam Conflict with the signing of the Paris Peace Accords on January 27, 1973, by representatives of the United States, North Vietnam, South Vietnam, and the Viet Cong. It is a day to reflect on the peace agreement that led to the withdrawal of American troops from Vietnam, signaling the end of one of the most contentious conflicts of the 20th century.

This agreement marked a pivotal moment in the Vietnam Conflict. The accords declared a ceasefire across North and South Vietnam and established terms that led to the withdrawal of US military forces.

While the ceasefire and the withdrawal of American troops did not immediately result in peace—fighting continued in various parts of Vietnam until 1975—the signing of the Paris Peace Accords was a significant step toward ending the conflict. The last American died in the war 11 hours before the parties signed the agreement.

In the United States, Vietnam Peace Day is a day for veterans, their families, and communities to come together to remember the past and to consider the lessons learned from Vietnam. In Vietnam, the day is not marked.

A LITTLE HISTORICAL CONTEXT

It is important to note that America could have avoided the Vietnam Conflict. Following the First World War, a young Vietnamese diplomat, Hồ Chí Minh, attempted to ally with the United States in 1919 at Versailles based on the 1789 French Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen. At the time, the Japanese and French occupied and threatened the small nation.

President Wilson refused, forcing the nation to turn toward communism in search of allies to support them in ending the occupation. It was a decision that would eventually lead to the decades-long conflict, which was never referred to officially as a "war" but ultimately resulted in the death of millions.

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Jan

Breast Pumping Day, World: January 27

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World Breast Pumping Day, created in 2017, raises awareness and support for breast pumping, a vital aspect of many new mothers' lives. The day is rooted in the desire to normalize breast pumping and provide education about breast pumping, support breastfeeding mothers, and advocate for the necessary accommodations in workplaces and public spaces for pumping.

Breast pumps have become an essential tool for new mothers for various reasons. They allow mothers to maintain their milk supply and ensure their babies have access to breast milk even if the mother returns to work after childbirth. Pumping is also essential for premature or hospitalized infants needing the best nutrition and for mothers who face difficulties with direct breastfeeding, latching problems, or who have an oversupply of milk due to miscarriage, the child's death, or other reasons. Using one also allows other caregivers to participate in feeding the baby, promoting bonding.

Breast milk is considered the best food for infants due to its comprehensive nutritional benefits and its role in supporting the immune system. By enabling mothers to pump and store breast milk, breast pumps contribute to the continued health and well-being of the baby.

World Breast Pumping Day serves as an opportunity to educate the public about the importance of breast milk and the role of breast pumping in supporting breastfeeding goals. It also highlights the need for societal support and infrastructure, such as lactation rooms and pumping breaks at work, to assist pumping mothers.

Africa

Jan

Community Engagement Day, Global: January 28

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Global Community Engagement Day promotes active community engagement and addresses societal challenges that enhance communities' well-being. The event began in South Australia, a state known for its progressive community involvement and social planning approach. South Australian community leaders and organizations emphasized the need for a dedicated day to celebrate and promote the principles of community engagement.

Community engagement is a dynamic process involving working collaboratively with groups affiliated by geographic proximity, special interests, or similar situations. The core principles of community engagement are essential for ensuring that this process is effective, inclusive, and sustainable.

The key principles of Community Engagement include:

1) Inclusivity and Diversity—engaging various voices to ensure processes reflect the community and incorporate a broad spectrum of perspectives and experiences.

2) Openness and Transparency—transparency builds trust and ensures that the community understands how their input is used and their needs are addressed.

3) Mutual Respect and Recognition—respecting all participants' knowledge, insights, and values form the basis of a productive engagement.

4) Purposeful and Outcome-Oriented—clear objectives and focus on achieving tangible outcomes that benefit the community through realistic goals and working collaboratively.

5) Empowerment and Capacity Building—building the community's skills, knowledge, and confidence, ensuring all participate fully.

6) Collaboration and Partnerships—engaging stakeholders, pooling resources, knowledge, and expertise.

7) Flexibility and Responsiveness—adapting to the changing needs and circumstances of the community by being responsive to feedback and willing to adjust strategies.

8) Sustainability and Long-term Commitment—planning for outcomes and ongoing involvement to ensure lasting benefits for the community.

9) Accountability and Feedback—regularly evaluate and respond to participants to maintain accountability.

10) Integrated and Holistic Approach—adapting interconnections among various community issues to increase engagement and seek solutions.

Each of the above guides the planning, implementation, and evaluation of engagement activities, ensuring people are respectful and effective while communities thrive.

Global Community Engagement Day serves as a reminder of the power of collective action and the results achieved when communities work together towards common goals. Today, Global Community Engagement Day is recognized globally, with various events, workshops, and activities organized to mark the occasion. These events often focus on sharing best practices, showcasing successful community projects, and exploring new ways to engage citizens in decision-making processes.

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Oct

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Jan

Pantone Color of the Year: 2024

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Pantone declares the theme color for each year in December before the start of the year. For 2024, Peach Fuzz, #13-1023 is the year's color. The Pantone Color of the Year tradition began in 2000 with the Pantone Color Institute, a consulting service within Pantone that forecasts global color trends. Their annual selection of a specific color intends to capture the spirit of the time, reflecting what is taking place in the global culture at a particular moment. The chosen color often influences various industries, including fashion, home furnishings, industrial design, product packaging, and graphic design.

The impact of the Pantone Color of the Year on modern design and trends is considerable. It often sets the tone for product development and purchasing decisions in multiple industries. Designers and manufacturers look to the Pantone Color of the Year for inspiration and use it to guide their creative processes.

The color can influence the entire product development cycle, from concept to consumer goods. The chosen color often reflects broader societal trends and moods, making it a form of color commentary on the prevailing mood. For example, the color chosen during a year of economic uncertainty might be markedly different from one selected in a time of optimism. Such nuanced distinctions make the Pantone Color of the Year not just a guide for design trends but also a reflection of the global zeitgeist.

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