All - Leep Calendar

National Police Week is a nationally recognized event in the US supported by presidential decree since 1962. "As a nation, we rely on law enforcement officers to keep our neighborhoods safe, enforce our laws, and respond in times of crisis. These men and women sustain peace and order across America, and we look to them as models of courage and integrity. This week, we honor their extraordinary service and sacrifice and remember the fallen heroes whose selfless acts have left behind safer streets and stronger communities. Every day, peace officers face the threat of violence and danger. They routinely put their lives on the line to defend ours, and the price of that bravery may result in injury, disability, or death. The steadfast dedication of our country's law enforcement officers warrants more than praise. That is why my Administration has provided billions of dollars in grants to support State, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies. These funds give peace officers the tools and resources they need to help ensure our safety. Thanks to law enforcement officers, our nation is more secure. They work with vigilance and dedication to identify and arrest those who seek to do us harm. They have also been instrumental in foiling many potential attacks, including the recent plot in New York City's Times Square. From combating terror and staking out criminals to patrolling our highways, peace officers, with the strong support of their families, maintain stability in our communities as we go about our daily lives. This week, we recognize their invaluable contributions to upholding justice, enforcing the rule of law, and protecting the innocent. By a joint resolution approved October 1, 1962, as amended (76 Stat. 676), and by Public Law 103-322, as amended (36 USC 136-137), the President has been authorized and requested to designate May 15 of each year as Peace Officers Memorial Day, and the week in which it falls as Police Week."

Africa

May

Portuguese Language Day, World: May 5

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Bom dia! The date of 5 May is celebrated as "World Portuguese Language Day" to honor the Portuguese language and Lusophone cultures. This day was officially established in 2009 by the Community of Portuguese-speaking Countries (CPLP), which is in partnership with UNESCO. The Portuguese language is widely spoken, with over 265 million speakers across the globe, making it one of the most widespread languages. It is also the most commonly spoken language in the southern hemisphere. Portuguese continues to be an important language for international communication and is expected to grow in prominence in the future.

Africa

May

Posture Month: May

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May is Posture Month, a chance to pay attention to how you stand, walk, lift and sit. Proper posture places the least strain on supporting muscles and ligaments during movement and weight-bearing activities. Plus, good posture makes you look confident, healthy, and vital. Correct posture: a) Keeps bones and joints in correct alignment to decrease stress on joint surfaces that could result in degenerative arthritis and joint pain. b) Reduces stress on the ligaments holding the spinal joints together, minimizing the likelihood of injury. It allows muscles to work more efficiently, allowing the body to use less energy and preventing muscle fatigue. c) Helps prevent muscle strain, and overuse disorders, including back and muscular pain. Poor posture can lead to excessive strain on our postural muscles and may even cause them to relax when held in certain positions for long periods. For example, you can typically see this in people who bend forward at the waist for a prolonged time in the workplace. Their postural muscles are more prone to injury and back pain. Several factors contribute to poor posture-most commonly, stress, obesity, pregnancy, weak postural muscles, abnormally tight muscles, and high-heel shoes. In addition, decreased flexibility, a poor work environment, incorrect working posture, and unhealthy sitting and standing habits can also contribute to poor body positioning.

Africa

May

Potato, Intl. Day of the: May 30

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CELEBRATING THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE POTATO The humble potato, a staple food cherished worldwide, is celebrated globally on May 30, the United Nations International Day of the Potato. This day, which unites people from all corners of the world, highlights the versatility, nutritional value, and historical significance of one of the world's most important crops. Originating from the Andean region of South America, potatoes were domesticated by the indigenous peoples of modern-day Peru and northwest Bolivia over 7,000 years ago. Spanish explorers brought the potato to Europe in the late 16th century, and it has since become a dietary staple in many cultures across the globe. TYPES OF POTATOES Potatoes come in numerous varieties, each with unique characteristics and culinary uses: Russet Potatoes With brown, rough skin and starchy consistency, are ideal for baking, frying, and mashing. Red Potatoes Smooth red skin and waxy texture. Red potatoes are excellent for boiling and roasting and in salads. Yukon Gold Potatoes Their yellowish flesh and buttery flavor make them perfect for mashing, roasting, and gratins. Fingerling Potatoes Small, elongated potatoes with a firm texture; fingerlings are great for roasting and adding to salads. Purple Potatoes Recognized for their striking purple skin and flesh. They are rich in antioxidants and add color to any dish. NUTRITION Potatoes, often underestimated, are not only versatile but also packed with nutrients. A medium-sized potato with skin provides a significant amount of Vitamin C, Potassium, Fiber, Vitamin B6, and Antioxidants, making it a powerhouse of health benefits. Vitamin C: Essential for immune function and skin health. Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance. Fiber: Aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. Vitamin B6: Important for brain health and metabolism. Antioxidants: In colored varieties like purple potatoes, which help fight free radicals. POPULAR POTATO DISHES Potatoes are a vital ingredient in many beloved dishes around the world: French Fries The most famous potato dish, French fries, is enjoyed globally as a snack or side dish. Mashed Potatoes A comfort food staple often served with gravy or butter. Potato Salad Popular at picnics and barbecues, made with boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, and various seasonings. Baked Potatoes Simple yet satisfying, often topped with butter, cheese, sour cream, and chives. Potato Soup It is a hearty and warming dish, perfect for cold weather. Gnocchi Italian potato dumplings served with a variety of sauces. Tortilla Española A Spanish omelet with potatoes and eggs served as tapas. The International Day of the Potato celebrates potatoes' diverse and indispensable role in global cuisine and agriculture. From the Andes to the rest of the world, the potato's journey is a testament to its adaptability and nutritional value. This adaptability is not just a survival strategy but an inspiration to embrace change and thrive in any situation.

Africa

May

Prayer, National Day of: May 7

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The National Day of Prayer was created in 1952; however, throughout American history, many official National Days of Prayer have existed. It is non-denominational and not specific to any religion, and Sikhs, Muslims, Christians, Jews, and people from all faiths participate. In recent years atheist groups have created an alternative to this day, known as the National Day of Reason. The constitutionality of the day is regularly challenged on First Amendment grounds. Prayer has played an essential role in the American story and in shaping our Nation's leaders. President Abraham Lincoln once said, "I have been driven many times upon my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go. My own wisdom and that of all about me seemed insufficient for the day." The late Coretta Scott King recounted a tough night during the Montgomery bus boycott when her husband, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., received a threatening phone call and prayed at the kitchen table, saying, "Lord, I have nothing left. I have nothing left. I have come to the point where I can't face it alone." Dr. King said in that moment of prayer, he was filled with a sense of comfort and resolve, which his wife credited as a turning point in the civil rights movement.

Africa

May

Preakness Stakes: May 16

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The Preakness Stakes is a horse racing competition held annually at Pimlico racetrack in Baltimore, Maryland, since 1919. It's one of the oldest and most famous horse races in the United States and forms the second race of the Triple Crown, which includes the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes.

Africa

May

Premier League Final (UK): May 24

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The Premier League is the top level of the English football league system. It is contested by 20 clubs and operates on a system of promotion and relegation with the English Football League (EFL). Seasons run from August to May with each team playing 38 matches (playing all 19 other teams home and away). Most games are played on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. The Premier League is known for its high level of competition and is widely regarded as one of the best football leagues in the world. It features teams with a rich history such as Manchester United, Liverpool, Arsenal, and Chelsea, among others. However, there's a point of clarification here: unlike some sports (for example, the NFL in American Football, or the NBA in Basketball), there isn't a "Premier League Finals". The champion of the Premier League is not decided by a playoff or a final game, but by the total points accumulated throughout the season. Each team earns 3 points for a win, 1 point for a draw, and no points for a loss. The team with the most points at the end of the season wins the league. In case of a tie in points, goal difference then goals scored are used to decide the champion. The importance of finishing at the top of the Premier League cannot be understated: Prestige: Winning the Premier League is a huge achievement that brings significant prestige and recognition. It's a sign of success and dominance in one of the most competitive football leagues in the world. Champions League Qualification: The top four teams in the Premier League qualify for the following season's UEFA Champions League, which is the most prestigious club competition in European football. Financial Reward: There is a considerable financial benefit both in terms of the prize money from the Premier League itself, and also from the increased revenue from participating in the Champions League. Thus, while there's no "Premier League Finals" per se, the race to finish at the top of the Premier League table is a high-stakes competition watched by millions of fans around the world.

Africa

May

Prescription Drug Disposal Awareness Day, (1991): May 24

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Prescription Drug Disposal Awareness Day promotes one message: When you're done using your prescription drug, please get rid of it. Steve Pasierb, the president of Partnership for a Drug-Free America, states: "Our research shows that the No. 1 source of medicines that kids abuse is their own home medicine cabinet or a family member or friend's home." With thousands of cases of death due to an unintentional overdose of prescription drugs each year, disposing of unneeded prescription drugs will eliminate temptation and drastically reduce the number of casualties created by this easily assuaged issue. Annually on the birthday of Timothy Strain, May 24, 1991. Strain died on August 6, 2009, of an accidental drug overdose of methadone at the age of 18 when his girlfriend's mother accidentally gave him the drug thinking it was the pain killer Percocet. Strain's death could have been avoided had the medication been disposed of properly when no longer in use.

Africa

May

Preservation Month, Ntl.: May

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Created in 1973 by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, National Preservation Month focuses on preserving historic places, promoting heritage tourism, and showing the social and economic benefits of historic preservation. Local events throughout the country demonstrate the cultural significance of these places and the necessity to safeguard them for posterity.

Africa

May

Press Freedom Day, World: May 3

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The UN General Assembly proclaimed World Press Freedom Day in December 1993 after a recommendation of UNESCO's General Conference. It celebrates the freedom of the press in the civilized world, aims to defend the media from any attacks on their independence, and pays tribute to the journalists who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

Africa

May

Prevention Week, Ntl.: May 10-16

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Note: The Trump Administration has taken down this organization's website. However, we will continue to acknowledge this event, despite his administration withdrawing funds and closing the agency, SAMHSA that runs it. It appears the DEA may be picking it up. National Prevention Week was first organized in 2011 to allow schools to participate in a drug prevention-themed event before the school year ends, raising awareness in students of all ages. The percentages of marijuana, cigarette, and alcohol experimentation among youth increase between spring (April and May) and summer (June and July,) and the timing of National Prevention Week helps to educate young people and their families at this crucial time of year. During National Prevention Week, community organizations hosted health fairs, block parties, educational assemblies, town hall meetings, memorial walks, social media campaigns, and outdoor events.

Africa

May

Public Gardens Week, Ntl.: May 8-17

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In 2019 National Public Gardens Day became a week-long celebration. According to the American Public Gardens Association, the definition of a public garden is as follows: "A public garden is an institution that maintains collections of plants for the purposes of public education and enjoyment, in addition to research, conservation, and higher learning. It must be open to the public and the garden's resources and accommodations must be made to all visitors. Public gardens are staffed by professionals trained in their given areas of expertise and maintain active plant records systems." Public gardens enhance life, especially in urban environments. National Public Gardens Week is about raising awareness of the benefits of public gardens and encouraging people to assist in preserving these public treasures.

Africa

May

Public Science Day, Ntl.(CN): May 16-17

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OPENING DOORS TO INNOVATION'S CURIOSITY NATIONAL PUBLIC SCIENCE DAY IN CHINA Since its inception in 2004, China's National Public Science Day has served as a powerful platform to spark public interest in science, promote national innovation, and honor the contributions of researchers and educators nationwide. Held annually on the third weekend of May, the event transforms research institutions, universities, laboratories, and science museums into open classrooms designed to bring science to the people. Spearheaded by the China Association for Science and Technology (CAST), the event was born out of a growing recognition that scientific literacy is vital for national development. In the early 2000s, China began accelerating its transition to a knowledge-based economy. National Public Science Day bridges the gap between scientific communities and the general public, particularly among young people, and underscores the government's commitment to innovation as a national priority. The day honors scientists, engineers, and educators whose work drives China's technological advancements. It also acknowledges the role of ordinary citizens in adopting and supporting scientific progress in daily life. Celebrations take place nationwide, from major cities like Beijing and Shanghai to rural provinces, where mobile science vans and outreach teams bring hands-on experiments and lectures to remote communities. Activities include open houses at research centers, interactive science exhibits, live demonstrations, public lectures, astronomy nights, and robotics showcases. The event not only demystifies scientific concepts but also encourages careers in STEM fields. With millions participating each year, National Public Science Day reflects China's broader aim to cultivate a society that values evidence-based thinking and innovation. It is a cornerstone of the country's long-term plan to elevate science and technology as central pillars of sustainable development.

Africa

May

Public Service Recognition Week: May 3-9

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The first full week of May is Public Service Recognition Week. The Public Employees Roundtable (PER) first celebrated Public Service Recognition Week (PSRW) in 1985 to honor the civil servants of the United States in federal, state, county, and local government.

Africa

May

Public Works Week, Ntl.(US/CA): May 17-23

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For National Public Works Week, many states, provinces, towns, and municipalities from across North America have come together to celebrate NPWW with official government proclamations and resolutions in honor of the contribution public works makes to their communities: in planning, building, managing and operating the heart of our local communities and in building the quality of life.

Africa