2024 is the United Nations International Year of the Camelid. Camelids are a family of mammals that includes several species: camel, llama, alpaca, guanaco, and vicuña. These animals are native to the arid regions of South America and parts of Asia and have been domesticated for various purposes for thousands of years. Camelids are known for their unique physical characteristics, which allow them to thrive in harsh and arid environments. Some key features of camelids include: Humps: Camels are most notable for their distinctive humps, made of fat stores. These humps enable them to store energy and water and survive in extreme desert conditions. Llamas, alpacas, guanacos, and vicuñas, on the other hand, do not have humps. Long Necks: Camelids have long, slender necks that are well-adapted for browsing vegetation in their native habitats. Split Upper Lip: Their upper lips are split, allowing them to selectively feed on vegetation without consuming excessive amounts of thorny or spiky plants. Thick Fur: Many camelids have thick fur that provides insulation against the cold and protects them from extreme temperatures. Each species within the camelid family has its unique characteristics and uses: Camels: Camels are primarily found in the Middle East and Central Asia. The two main species are the dromedary camel, with a single hump, and the Bactrian camel, with two humps. Camels are used for transportation, milk, meat, and wool. Llamas: Llamas are domesticated camelids found in the Andean region of South America. They are larger than alpacas and have been bred for their wool and meat and as pack animals. Llamas are also used in some areas for guarding livestock due to their alert and protective nature. Alpacas: Alpacas are smaller and more delicate than llamas and are selectively bred for their soft and luxurious coats. Alpaca wool is highly valued for its warmth, fineness, and hypoallergenic properties. Guanacos and Vicuñas: Guanacos and vicuñas are wild camelid species found in South America. Guanacos are more robust, while vicuñas are more petite and highly prized for their fine wool. Both species are protected and are known for their graceful appearance. In addition to their uses for transportation, fiber, meat, and milk, camelids play significant cultural and ecological roles in their native regions. They have adapted to survive in challenging environments and have become integral to the livelihoods and traditions of the communities that have relied on them for generations.

Africa

Jan

Herb of the Year, Yarrow Achillea: 2024

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Since 1991 the International Herb Association has chosen an herb or spice to represent that year. 2024 is the year of Yarrow Achillea. Yarrow, scientifically known as Achillea, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. The genus receives its name from the Greek mythological hero Achilles, who is said to have used yarrow to treat his soldiers' wounds during the Trojan War. Yarrow plants are native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, and North America. Yarrow is a hardy perennial herb known for its feathery, aromatic leaves and clusters of small, daisy-like flowers. The flowers can be white, yellow, pink, or red, depending on the species and cultivar. Yarrow plants typically grow to a height of 1 to 3 feet (30 to 90 centimeters) and create excellent ground cover. In terms of cultivation, yarrow is relatively easy to grow. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate various conditions, including dry or sandy soil and full sun to partial shade. Yarrow plants are also known for their drought tolerance and ability to attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. Yarrow has a long history of medicinal use. The plant contains various compounds, including volatile oils, flavonoids, and tannins, contributing to its medicinal properties. Traditionally, yarrow has been used to treat multiple ailments, including digestive issues, fever, inflammation, and wound healing. It is often used topically as a poultice or salve to help stop bleeding and promote the healing of cuts and bruises. Beyond its medicinal uses, yarrow is also valued for its ornamental qualities. Many gardeners appreciate yarrow's attractive flowers, which can add color and texture to gardens and flower arrangements. Numerous cultivated varieties are available, offering a wide range of flower colors and growth habits. In folklore and symbolism, yarrow has been associated with divination, love, and protection and has been used in various rituals and ceremonies throughout history. Overall, yarrow (Achillea) is a versatile plant with medicinal and ornamental value. Its attractive flowers, easy cultivation, and historical significance make it popular among gardeners and herbalists.

Africa

Jan

Leap Year: 2024

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A leap year is divisible by four, except for years divisible by 100 but not by 400, meaning that the years 2000 and 2400 are leap years, but the years 1700, 1800, and 1900 were not, even though they were divisible by four. The purpose of leap day is to keep the calendar year in sync with the astronomical year, which is the time it takes for the Earth to complete one orbit around the sun. The astronomical year is approximately 365.24 days long, which means that the calendar year, which is 365 days long, is slightly shorter. Adding an extra day is necessary for the calendar to stay in sync with the seasons, resulting in events traditionally associated with particular times of the year, such as the spring equinox or the summer solstice, which would gradually shift over time. Leap day is traditionally associated with various customs and superstitions. In many cultures, it is considered unlucky to be born on leap day, and people born then earn the nickname "leaplings" or "leap year babies." Leap day is also sometimes associated with events or occasions that only occur once every four years. For example, in some countries, elections are held only in leap years, and the Summer Olympics and Paralympics are also held on a four-year cycle, with leap years marking the midpoint between games.

Africa

Jan

Space—Year of the 2nd Race for the Moon: 2024

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2024 will see a new race to the Moon, focusing on space and Earth's only natural satellite. On July 14, 2023, India launched Chandrayaan-3, which successfully landed on the Moon's South Pole making India the fourth nation, behind the US, Russia, and China, to successfully land on the Moon. On August 11, 2023, Russia launched Luna 25, an unmanned lunar spaceship set to explore the Moon's surface for water. The last such touchdown for Russia was on August 18, 1976. If successful, cosmonauts may follow. Only one nation, the United States, has ever landed people on the Moon. Unfortunately, the Luna 25 exploded in August, leaving a 10 meter crater on the moon during its landing. China and the European Union have robust space programs. Italy, Japan, France, Australia, Brazil, Iran, Israel, Kenya, South Korea, North Korea, and Ukraine all have active space programs that have conducted launches. The African Union is creating a space program based on its Vision 2063 objectives. The European Union, Italy, Japan, and India have active space probe programs, bringing us to 2024 and the United States. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has stated it will launch a new manned expedition to the Moon as early as Fall 2024. Artemis II will circle the satellite with three men and a woman aboard. Artemis III will launch in 2025 and be the first manned spaceship to land on the Moon since Apollo 17 in 1972. It will explore the South Pole region, an area in the dark that has never been seen or touched by man for billions of years. Though not an official year with NASA, the activity ahead of the event and focus on landing on the Moon make 2024 the Year of the Second Race for the Moon. 2025 will be the Year of the Moon Landing, with the first woman in history stepping on the surface. 2024 Image (C) NASA: Crew of Artemis II

Africa

Jan

Year of Intuition & Realized Dreams: 2024

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Numerology places 2024 as the year of Intuition and Realized Dreams. It is a year to listen to your inner voice, trust it, and channel your ambition into taking action toward fulfilling your greatest desire. If you have the courage in love, career, family, education, or finances, this is the year to focus on your passion and put the work in. The numbers are in your favor to succeed and achieve your dream. 2024 is an angel number in numerology circles—a guardian angel there to support you in making intelligent decisions and moving forward. Overall, the underlying message of 2024 is you are the best arbiter of your success. Go with your gut and reach for your dreams; this is the year your sincere dreams can come true.

Africa

Jan

Year of Salad, Intl.: 2024

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Each year one flower and one vegetable are chosen for focus by the Fleuroselect Home Garden Association. 2024 is the International Year of Salad. Salad, a dish consisting of a mixture of small pieces of food, usually featuring vegetables, has a history that spans many centuries and cultures. Ancient Romans and Greeks ate mixed greens with salt, oil, and vinegar dressings. The word "salad" comes from the Latin "sal" (salt), which was a main ingredient in the dressings. By the Middle Ages in medieval Europe, salads evolved to include raw, cooked, and preserved vegetables mixed with various meats and fish. Salads were often served as a starting course to aid digestion. During the Renaissance, salads became more elaborate, and chefs experimented with various herbs, flowers, and other ingredients. Advanced chefs designed salads to be visually appealing works of art. As the world expanded through exploration and colonization in the 17th and 18th centuries, salads reflected the optimism in Europe. The French were particularly influential in refining salad dressings and compositions through courses; now, salads were usually served before the dessert. With the industrial revolution of the 19th century and advances in health and nutrition, salads were considered healthy meals. The introduction of new vegetables from the Americas and the influence of different international cuisines contributed to the diversification of salad recipes. By the 20th century, salads became a staple in Western diets and standardized through new recipes like the Cesar Salad, Jell-o salads, three bean salad, and Chinese Chicken Salad. In the 1970s, Salad bars began to appear in restaurants, allowing diners to customize their salads with various ingredients. With the growing awareness of healthy eating and the emphasis on fresh, local, and organic produce, salads have continued to evolve. They can range from simple side dishes to full, gourmet meals with influences from various global cultures. Salads can be hot or cold in modern cuisine and include virtually any combination of ingredients, from vegetables, fruits, nuts, grains, meat, or fish. Dressings and seasonings have also become more varied, with chefs continually experimenting with flavors and textures. Salads are a testament to human creativity in using available resources to create nourishing and appealing food.

Africa

Mar

Panchanga 2081: March 26, 2024 - March 14, 2025

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The Hindu calendar, known as "Panchanga," is a traditional Indian calendar used for religious, cultural, and astrological purposes. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, the Panchanga is based on lunar months and solar years, integrating aspects of lunar and solar cycles.
The Hindu Panchanga includes the following components:

Tithi—Represents the lunar day and is one of the most crucial elements. The moon's movement relative to the Earth determines the Tithi.
Vara—Denotes a weekday.
Nakshatra—Is the moon's position in one of the 27 constellations.
Yoga—Is the combined calculation of the longitudes of the sun and the moon.
Karana—Half of a Tithi, with two Karanas each day.

The Panchanga aligns the solar months (Saur Maas) with the Vedic zodiac signs. The lunar aspect comprises 12 or 13 lunar months (Chandra Maas), each beginning with a new moon.

For those not accustomed to using astronomy-based mathematics to determine what day it is, the Panchanga is challenging. However, it is pivotal in Hindu cultures to choose auspicious dates for Hindu festivals, weddings, and other ceremonies. As it is based on the movement of the sun, moon, and stars, dates vary regionally across India and the globe, with each region having its version adjusted to local lunar and solar cycles. Notable variations include the Tamil, Bengali, and Malayalam calendars.

The twelve standard months of Panchanga are:

Chaitra (March-April)
Vaishakha (April-May)
Jyeshtha (May-June)
Ashadha (June-July)
Shravana (July-August)
Bhadrapada or Bhadra (August-September)
Ashwin (September-October)
Kartika (October-November) includes the celebration of Diwali and the beginning of the wedding season in many parts of India.
Margashirsha or Agrahayana (November-December)
Pausha or Paush (December-January)
Magha (January-February)
Phalguna (February-March) includes Holi, the festival of colors.

Africa

Jan

Year of the Sunflower, Intl.: 2024

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Each year one flower and one vegetable are chosen for focus by the Fleuroselect Home Garden Association. 2024 is the International Year of the Sunflower. Sunflowers signify strength and prosperity in folklore and are prized for their bright and cheerful appearance. These large and tall flowers have a rich history in food and medicine that spans various cultures and centuries. The journey of the sunflower as a beneficial plant begins with the indigenous tribes of North America. They were the first to recognize the value of sunflowers, using them for food, oil, and dye. The seeds were ground into meals for bread, cakes, and soups, while the oil extracted from the seeds was used for cooking and as a base for medicinal ointments. As European explorers reached the New World in the 16th century, sunflowers traveled to Europe, quickly becoming popular as an ornamental plant, and for their nutritional and medicinal properties. The seeds, rich in vitamins and minerals, were roasted or used to produce oil. Sunflower oil was used to treat skin conditions and wounds. During the 18th century, the cultivation of sunflowers spread to Russia, where they found an ideal climate for growth. The Russian Orthodox Church played a role in its popularity, as sunflower oil was one of the few oils not prohibited during Lent. Russia became a significant producer of sunflower oil, and the techniques for oil extraction were refined, leading to commercial production. By the 19th century, sunflower cultivation returned to North America, where it began to be grown on an industrial scale. When the 20th century arrived, the United States emerged as a major sunflower oil producer. Modern understanding of the nutritional benefits of sunflowers has only deepened, recognizing the seeds as a source of healthy fats, protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. Sunflower oil is used in cooking and as a base for multiple products, while the seeds are eaten as snacks or added to many dishes. Sunflower oil continues to be used in various treatments by practitioners of traditional and alternative medicine; its petals and other parts of the plant have found their way into herbal remedies. Sunflowers' anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are still being explored, with ongoing research into potential applications in modern medicine.

Africa

Feb

Buddhist Year (B) 2151: February 10 - February 27, 2025

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This year is 2151 in the Buddhist calendar. The Tibetan Buddhist Calendar is the most common calendar used in the Buddhist faith. For simplicity purposes and so we can represent the full Buddhist calendar on LEEP, we refer to the calendar as Losar.

Losar, the Tibetan New Year, is a festival steeped in cultural and spiritual significance, celebrated primarily in Tibet and by Tibetan Buddhist communities worldwide. This annual event typically falls in February or March.

he Tibetan calendar is known as the "Tibetan Lunar Calendar." It is a lunisolar calendar, which incorporates aspects of both lunar and solar calendars. The Tibetan calendar is used primarily for religious and cultural purposes, including calculating religious festivals, auspicious dates for various activities, and astrological forecasts.

This calendar is deeply interwoven with Tibetan Buddhist traditions and is based on ancient Indian and Chinese calendar systems. Its structure and calculations are unique, featuring a complex system of cycles, lunar months, and intercalary months to align the lunar and solar years. The Tibetan Lunar Calendar is central to the cultural and spiritual life of the Tibetan people, influencing many aspects of their daily lives and practices. The Tibetan Lunar Calendar consists of 12 months, each named after an animal in the Tibetan zodiac, similar to the Chinese zodiac.

The months are as follows:

Tiger Month
Rabbit Month
Dragon Month
Snake Month
Horse Month
Sheep Month
Monkey Month
Bird Month
Dog Month
Pig Month
Mouse Month
Ox Month

The Tibetan calendar is lunisolar, so an extra month (an intercalary month) is occasionally added to keep the calendar in sync with the solar year. This extra month is usually added every two or three years and is a repeat of one of the standard months, typically the fourth or fifth month. The decision to add this intercalary month derives from complex astronomical calculations. As a result, Tibetan lunar months do not align perfectly with Western Gregorian calendar months.

Africa

Mar

Nanakshahi Year 556 (S): March 14, 2024- March 13, 2025

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Sikh Year 556

The Nanakshahi calendar was officially adopted in 1998, marking a significant shift in how Sikhs observe their religious festivals. Named after Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, this solar calendar replaced the lunar-based Bikrami calendar, which previously determined the dates for Sikh holidays.

The creation of the Nanakshahi calendar began with Pal Singh Purewal, a Canadian Sikh who sought to simplify the Sikh festival calendar by establishing fixed dates for the observances. His efforts culminated in the adopting of this calendar by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, the apex body managing Sikh Gurdwaras and religious affairs.

The structure of the Nanakshahi calendar closely aligns with the solar-based Gregorian system. It commences on March 14th, a date traditionally believed to be the birthday of Guru Nanak. The calendar consists of 12 months, each spanning 30 to 31 days, bringing the total to 365 or 366 days per year.

The months in the Nanakshahi calendar carry terms found in Puranic and medieval Indian texts. Under this system, major Sikh festivals like Guru Nanak Gurpurab and Vaisakhi receive fixed dates, eliminating the inconsistencies and annual adjustments required by the lunar calendar. Celebrations, including Maghi and Hola Mohalla, are also set, facilitating the consistent observation of these significant dates.

The introduction of the Nanakshahi calendar was more than a mere administrative change; it symbolized a distinct religious identity for Sikhism.

Each month in the Nanakshahi calendar starts in the middle of a Gregorian month and is named after the traditional Indian lunar months.

The Sikh Nanakshahi months are as follows:

Chet - (March - April)
Vaisakh - (April - May)
Jeth - (May - June)
Harh - (June - July)
Sawan - (July - August)
Bhadon - (August - September)
Assu - (September - October)
Kattak - (October - November)
Maghar - (November - December)
Poh - (December - January)
Magh - (January - February)
Phagun - (February - March)

Africa

Jul

Islamic Year 1446 (M): July 7, 2024-June 25, 2025

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The Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, is a lunar calendar used by Muslims to determine the dates of religious events and observances, including Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and Hajj. The calendar consists of 12 months, each 29 or 30 days long, and numbers 354 or 355 days a year.

Unlike the solar-based Gregorian calendar, the Islamic calendar is lunar-based, with each month beginning with the sighting of the crescent moon. The Prophet Muhammad introduced the Islamic calendar in the seventh century, and it is the official calendar in many Muslim-majority countries. Saudi Arabia uses it for civil and financial purposes but uses the Gregorian for international business, and most Muslim-majority countries use both.

The twelve months of the Islamic Calendar are:

1. Muharram
2. Safar
3. Rabi al Awwal
4. Rabi al Thani
5. Jumada al Awwal
6. Jumada al Thani
7. Rajab
8. Shaban
9. Ramadan
10. Shawwal
11. Zul Qaadah
12. Zul Hijjah

Africa

Jan

2024 Décor Colors of the Year

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Pantone is the leader in choosing the year’s color, something they announce in mid-December. However, they started a trend, and now the major paint and home decor companies also announce their colors of the year.

Based on the choices for 2024, colors have gone conservative and masculine. The sole holdout is Krylon with its cyan-colored blue bird. Otherwise, the colors are reminiscent of the estate house of England during the turn of the last century with their warm studies, libraries, traditional earth tones, and deep colors.

Here are the top colors you’ll see in home decor in 2024

C2 Paint = Thermal
Sherwin-Williams = Persimmon
Dutch Boy = Ironside
Valspar = Renew Blue
Behr = Cracked Pepper
Glidden = Limitless
Minwax = Bay Blue
Graham & Brown = Viridis
Krylon = Bluebird
Rust-Oleum = Chocolate Cherry

Africa

Mar

Purim (J) (365 BC): March 6/7

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Purim is a Jewish festival marking events from the Book of Esther. Esther was able to prevent genocide against the Hebrew people in 355 BC. It’s a story about God’s hands being in everything, whether we see it or not. The video “Purim Animated” does an excellent job of explaining the holidays and festivities.

Purim is sometimes called the ‘Jewish Halloween’ due to its costumes, food, gifts, and merriment. It is the most colorful of the Jewish holiday celebrations.

Africa

Nov

Rural Health Day: November 21

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Rural areas in the United States often struggle with access to quality healthcare services. National Rural Health Day, an annual event observed on the third Thursday of November aims to highlight the pressing healthcare issues these often-overlooked communities face. National Rural Health Day, or NRHD, is an occasion that brings together healthcare providers, policymakers, and advocates to address the unique challenges that rural areas in the United States encounter with healthcare access. Established in 2010 by the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH), NRHD has since gained recognition and momentum in raising awareness about the disparities in rural healthcare. The healthcare issues confronting rural communities in the United States are multifaceted and have far-reaching implications. Access to healthcare services is a primary concern, as many rural areas need more nearby hospitals, medical facilities, and specialists. This geographical barrier often means that residents must travel long distances to seek medical attention, which can be costly, time-consuming, and potentially life-threatening in emergencies. Moreover, healthcare workforce shortages plague rural regions. Fewer healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and mental health providers, choose to practice in rural areas due to various factors such as limited career opportunities, lower salaries, and lifestyle preferences. This shortage further exacerbates the healthcare access problem, leaving rural residents with fewer options for care. Financial challenges also play a significant role in the healthcare struggles faced by rural communities. Many rural residents are uninsured or underinsured, making healthcare unaffordable for a considerable portion of the population. Rural hospitals and clinics often operate on thin margins, and the closure of these facilities is a growing concern. When a healthcare facility shuts down in a rural area, it can have dire consequences, leaving residents with even fewer options for care. Mental health disparities are another critical issue. Rural communities experience higher rates of mental health issues, substance abuse, and suicide compared to their urban counterparts. The lack of mental health providers and services compounds these challenges, making it difficult for individuals in rural areas to access the care they need. National Rural Health Day addresses these issues by raising awareness and advocating for solutions. It is a platform for stakeholders to discuss policy changes, innovative healthcare delivery models, and initiatives to improve healthcare access and quality in rural America.

Africa

Nov

Check Your Wipers Day, Northern Hemisphere: November 16

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Windshield wipers are small, unassuming devices that play a vital role in maintaining clear visibility during inclement weather, making them an essential element of road safety. To underscore their significance, "Check Your Wipers Day" was established as an annual event, reminding drivers to ensure the proper functioning of their windshield wipers. Automobile accidents caused by impaired visibility due to worn-out or malfunctioning windshield wipers have been persistent. To address this problem and promote awareness, safety advocates, local automotive repair shops, and the Michelin Tire Company support Check Your Wipers Day. The Northern Hemisphere observes Check Your Wipers Day on November 16. The Southern Hemisphere observes Check Your Wipers Day on May 16. The main objective of Check Your Wipers Day is to encourage drivers to inspect their windshield wipers regularly and replace them when necessary. Wipers that have deteriorated over time or have cracked rubber blades can streak, skip, or leave smudges on the windshield, significantly impairing a driver's vision, especially during rain, snow, or fog. During Check Your Wipers Day, automotive experts and safety organizations typically provide educational materials, conduct workshops, and offer discounted wiper replacements at participating garages and auto parts stores. These activities aim to underscore the importance of proactive vehicle maintenance and foster a culture of responsibility among drivers. Non-functioning wiper blades produce rain-smeared or fog-obscured windshields, which can lead to accidents, endangering the lives of motorists and pedestrians alike. In addition to wiper blade replacements, drivers are advised to check their windshield washer fluid levels and ensure that their windshield is free from debris, such as leaves and dirt, that can hinder wiper performance. By taking a few moments to check and replace their wipers when needed, motorists contribute to safer roadways, reduce the risk of accidents, and demonstrate their commitment to responsible driving practices.

Africa