All - Leep Calendar

RAISING AWARENESS ABOUT FUNGAL INFECTIONS: FUNGAL DISEASE AWARENESS WEEK Fungal Disease Awareness Week is an annual event to increase public awareness about fungal infections, their impact on health, and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. The week is organized by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), along with various health organizations and partners dedicated to improving public knowledge and preventing fungal diseases. The primary goal of Fungal Disease Awareness Week is to educate the public and healthcare professionals about the prevalence of fungal infections, the risks they pose, and the need for greater awareness and vigilance in diagnosing and treating these infections. The week seeks to highlight that fungal diseases can affect anyone, especially those with weakened immune systems, and that early detection is crucial for effective treatment. COMMON FUNGAL INFECTIONS Fungal infections can affect various parts of the body, and some of the most common ones include: —Athlete’s Foot (Tinea Pedis): A common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, often causing itching, redness, and cracking. —Yeast Infections (Candidiasis): Caused by the Candida species, these infections can occur in various parts of the body, including the mouth (oral thrush), genitals (vaginal yeast infections), and bloodstream (invasive candidiasis). —Ringworm (Tinea Corporis): A contagious fungal infection that presents as a red, ring-shaped rash on the skin or scalp. —Jock Itch (Tinea Cruris): A fungal infection that affects the groin area, causing itching and a red, rash-like appearance. —Aspergillosis: A severe infection caused by the Aspergillus fungus can affect the lungs and other organs, particularly in people with weakened immune systems. —Histoplasmosis: An infection caused by breathing in spores of the Histoplasma fungus, commonly found in soil contaminated with bird or bat droppings. It primarily affects the lungs. —Valley Fever (Coccidioidomycosis): A respiratory infection caused by inhaling spores of the Coccidioides fungus found in the soil of specific areas, particularly the southwestern United States. RECOGNIZING A FUNGAL INFECTION The symptoms of a fungal infection can vary depending on the type and location of the infection. Common signs of a fungal infection include: —Itching or burning sensation in the affected area —Redness, swelling, or rash on the skin —Cracked, scaly skin or blisters —Thickened, discolored nails (in the case of nail fungal infections) —White patches in the mouth or throat (oral thrush) —Persistent cough or difficulty breathing (in respiratory fungal infections) If you suspect a fungal infection, seeking medical advice for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment is vital. PREVENTING FUNGAL INFECTIONS Preventing fungal infections involves a combination of good hygiene practices and awareness of potential risks: —Keep skin clean and dry: Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, so it's essential to keep areas like feet, groin, and underarms dry. —Wear breathable clothing: Use moisture-wicking fabrics and avoid tight clothing that can trap moisture. —Avoid sharing personal items: Do not share towels, shoes, or other personal items that could harbor fungi. —Maintain good hygiene: Regular handwashing and bathing can help prevent the spread of fungi. —Protect your feet: To avoid contact with fungi on the floor, wear sandals or shower shoes in public showers, locker rooms, and pool areas. —Be aware of environmental risks: People living in or traveling to areas with a high prevalence of fungal spores (such as the southwestern U.S.) should take precautions, significantly if they have weakened immune systems. Fungal Disease Awareness Week is crucial in educating the public about the importance of fungal health. By raising awareness and promoting preventive measures, the event aims to reduce the incidence of fungal infections and improve health outcomes for those affected.

Africa

Sep

Ganesh Chaturthi (H): September 14

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Ganesha Chaturthi, also known as Vinayaka Chaturthi, is observed in the month of Bhadrapada (Bhado) according to the Hindu calendar. It starts on the Shukla Chaturthi (the fourth day of the waxing moon period). In the Gregorian calendar, it falls between August and September. The festival lasts ten days and ends on Anant Chaturdashi (the 14th day of the waxing moon period). Although observed throughout India, Maharastra has the most spectacular festival. Lord Ganesha is the god to be worshipped by Hindus before starting any important work. Ganesha Chaturthi honors Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles and the god of wisdom. Giant effigies of Lord Ganesha are prepared and worshiped during the festival. Pandals boast clay images of Ganesha onn homes observing the festival. At the festival's end, Lord Ganesha's idols are immersed in water. PLEASE NOTE: We use the Indian civil calendar, the official holiday calendar in India. The Hindu faith has many calendars, each specific to different regions and tribes, with dates and celebrations marked by differing positions of the sun, moon, and stars. Names of months and holidays and the corresponding dates in the Gregorian Calendar may vary widely from one calendar to the next. Determine the proper calendar before attending local events.

Africa

Sep

Ganesh Visarjan (H): September 25

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Ganesh Visarjan is a day after the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. Visarjan means "immersion". On Ganesh Visarjan, statues of Lord Ganesh, the elephant-headed Hindu god, are placed in a body of water and left there to disintegrate. Traditionally, Visarjan takes place 11 days after the start of the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. However, most people perform the immersion before that - one and a half days after the festival, three, five, or seven days - whenever they choose. PLEASE NOTE: We use the Indian civil calendar, the official holiday calendar in India. The Hindu faith has many calendars, each specific to different regions and tribes, with dates and celebrations marked by differing positions of the sun, moon, and stars. Names of months and holidays and the corresponding dates in the Gregorian Calendar may vary widely from one calendar to the next. Determine the proper calendar before attending local events.

Africa

Sep

Gay Men's AIDS/HIV Awareness Day: September 27

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Gay Men’s AIDS/HIV Awareness Day is an awareness campaign designed to educate the public on the effects of HIV and the stigma that goes along with it on gay and bisexual men. It is a day to disseminate information on what to do when a bisexual or gay man acquires HIV, what medications are available, and which prevention strategies avoid spreading the disease.

Africa

Sep

Germany Invades Poland (1939): September 1

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On September 1, 1939, Germany invaded Poland and started World War II. The Germans attacked from the ground and air using a tactic dubbed Blitzkrieg, resulting in a quick and decisive victory, despite the defiant Polish defense. The cities of Katowice, Krakow, Tczew and Tunel were attacked with incendiary bombs; Poznan was battered by the main body of the German Reich's forces, and border towns fell to occupation. Soon after, air raids on the capital Warsaw began at 09:00 AM local time. World War II officially began.

Africa

Sep

Ginger Cat Appreciation Day: September 1

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Ginger Cat Appreciation Day celebrates orange cats, whether tabby, tuxedo, or multi-colored. Most orange tabby cats are male (just like most calico cats are female). Famous ginger cats include Garfield and Morris the Cat.

Africa

Sep

Glucose Awareness Week, Ntl: September 21-27 (est)

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A WEEK TO FOCUS ON GLUCOSE: GLUCOSE AWARENESS WEEK Glucose Awareness Week is typically organized by health and diabetes organizations, such as the American Diabetes Association, to promote understanding of glucose levels and their impact on overall health. The week focuses on raising awareness about managing blood glucose, particularly for people with diabetes or those at risk. The event emphasizes the significance of glucose management in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It covers topics like how the body processes glucose, the role of insulin, the dangers of high or low glucose levels (hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia), and ways to maintain balanced blood sugar through diet, exercise, and medications. Participation in Glucose Awareness Week can include: —Health screenings: Many clinics or community health centers offer free blood glucose testing. —Educational workshops: These workshops inform people about managing glucose levels and preventing complications like diabetes. —Online campaigns: Social media campaigns may offer tips, success stories, and resources. —Fundraising events: Charitable events, such as walks or runs, raise money for diabetes research and education. Why is glucose essential? Glucose is a vital source of energy for the body's cells. It comes from the carbohydrates we eat, and insulin, produced by the pancreas, helps move glucose from the bloodstream into the cells for energy. What happens if you have too much or too little glucose? —Too much glucose (hyperglycemia): High blood sugar can lead to serious complications over time, such as heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, and vision problems. It is commonly associated with diabetes. —Too little glucose (hypoglycemia): Low blood sugar can cause dizziness, confusion, sweating, shaking, and fainting. Severe hypoglycemia can lead to unconsciousness or seizures if not treated promptly. Managing glucose levels is essential to avoid these extremes and maintain good health. WHAT IS GLUCOSE? Glucose is a type of sugar that is the primary energy source for the body's cells. It comes from carbohydrates in foods like bread, rice, fruits, and sweets. Once glucose enters the bloodstream, it requires insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, to help cells absorb and use it for energy. Glucose and insulin balance is vital for maintaining stable energy levels and overall health. How Does Glucose Impact Diabetes? The body's ability to regulate glucose remains impaired with diabetes: —Type 1 diabetes: The pancreas produces little to no insulin, so glucose cannot enter the cells, causing high blood sugar levels. —Type 2 diabetes: The body either becomes resistant to insulin or doesn't produce enough, leading to elevated blood glucose levels over time. Gestational diabetes: Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy when the body cannot effectively use insulin, resulting in higher glucose levels. If glucose levels remain high for extended periods, it can damage organs, nerves, and blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease, kidney failure, vision problems, and other complications. GLUCOSE AND DIABETES Glucose was first isolated in 1747 by German chemist Andreas Marggraf, who identified it in raisins. Later, in 1811, the French chemist Jean Baptiste Dumas identified glucose as a primary product of carbohydrate breakdown, leading to a deeper understanding of its role in human metabolism. TOP FIVE WARNING SIGNS OF DIABETES —Frequent urination: High blood sugar levels cause the kidneys to work overtime, leading to more urination. —Excessive thirst: As the body loses fluids through increased urination, dehydration sets in, causing persistent thirst. —Unexplained weight loss: Despite eating more, people with diabetes may lose weight because the body can't use glucose effectively. —Fatigue: Lack of energy due to the body's inability to convert glucose into energy can cause persistent tiredness. —Blurred vision: High glucose levels can affect the eyes' lenses, leading to temporary vision problems. These symptoms are key indicators and should prompt immediate medical consultation if noticed. CAN PEOPLE RECOVER FROM DIABETES? Diabetes, particularly Type 2 diabetes, can often be managed and, in some cases, reversed with lifestyle changes, but full recovery (complete elimination of the disease) is generally not possible, especially for Type 1 diabetes. Here's how it works: Type 1 Diabetes: —Recovery: There is currently no cure for Type 1 diabetes. It is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. People with Type 1 diabetes need lifelong insulin therapy to manage their glucose levels. —Management: Individuals can manage Type 1 diabetes through insulin injections, a controlled diet, and regular exercise to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Type 2 Diabetes: —Reversal/Remission: In some cases, people with Type 2 diabetes can achieve remission, meaning their blood sugar levels return to a healthy range without the need for medication. Remission or reversal is usually accomplished through significant lifestyle changes, such as: —Diet: A healthy, low-calorie, low-carb diet focusing on whole foods (vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains) can significantly reduce blood sugar levels. —Weight loss: Losing excess weight, especially around the abdomen, can improve insulin sensitivity and help the body regulate blood sugar more effectively. —Exercise: Regular physical activity (such as walking, swimming, or strength training) helps lower blood sugar levels and boosts the body's response to insulin. —Medication: Medications that reduce insulin resistance or stimulate insulin production may be required temporarily. —Long-Term Management: Even if remission is achieved, ongoing lifestyle modifications are needed to maintain it, as diabetes can return if old habits resume. Gestational Diabetes: —Recovery: This form of diabetes usually goes away after childbirth. However, women who have had gestational diabetes are at higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life, so adopting healthy lifestyle practices is essential. PREVENTION AND EARLY INTERVENTION For individuals at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes (e.g., prediabetes), early intervention with lifestyle changes can prevent the progression to full-blown diabetes. While there is no complete "cure" for diabetes, especially for Type 1, many people can live healthy, normal lives by managing the disease effectively. In the case of Type 2, some people can achieve remission through sustained lifestyle changes.

Africa

Sep

Go-Kart Week, Intl.: September 20-26

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INTERNATIONAL GO-KART WEEK: CELEBRATING THE THRILL OF THE RACE Go-Karts have been around since 1956 and have inspired generations of racers. These mini race cars can be gas-powered or electric and are often the first cars a person drives. International Go-Kart Week is an annual celebration dedicated to the exhilarating sport of go-kart racing. Established in 2003, this week-long event aims to unite go-kart enthusiasts worldwide, showcasing the sport's excitement and fostering community among its participants. The World Karting Association (WKA), a leading body in the sport's promotion and regulation, champions the event. WHAT IS A GO-KART? A go-kart is a small, four-wheeled vehicle designed for racing. Typically, these vehicles are low to the ground, lightweight, and powered by small engines. They offer an accessible entry point into motorsports for individuals of all ages, making them popular for recreational and competitive racing. ORIGINS OF THE SPORT Go-karting, as a sport, began in the late 1950s. In 1956, Art Ingels, an American race car builder, created the first go-kart in his garage using surplus parts from a lawnmower and a small engine. This invention quickly gained popularity, leading to the formation of organized racing events and clubs. Go-karting proliferated during the 1960s, spreading from the United States to Europe and other parts of the world. Establishing dedicated tracks and introducing competitive racing leagues solidified its place in the motorsports community. Over the decades, go-karting has evolved, with advancements in technology and safety contributing to the sport's development. Today, it is a stepping stone for many aspiring professional racers, including Formula 1 drivers. GLOBAL POPULARITY Go-karting is enjoyed worldwide, with significant popularity in countries such as the United States, Italy, France, and Brazil. Europe, in particular, boasts a rich history of kart racing, with numerous tracks and events catering to amateur and professional racers. Go-karting has also seen substantial growth in Asia, particularly in Japan and China, where the sport attracts a new generation of enthusiasts. International Go-Kart Week provides a platform for fans and racers to celebrate the sport's heritage and dynamic future. With events, races, and activities held globally, the week underscores the universal appeal of go-karting and its importance in the broader motorsports landscape.

Africa

Sep

Gold Out Month, Pediatric Cancer: September

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If you’re cruising around this month by foot, car, or rail and happen to see many people wearing gold or landmarks lit up in gold light, there is a reason for that. It’s Gold Out Month to highlight pediatric cancer during Childhood Cancer Month. The event heightens awareness of this killer disease, supports families afflicted by it, and encourages donations to find a cure. Annually, in September. Some locations celebrate over the weekends.

Africa

Sep

Gold Star Mother's and Family's Day: September 27

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Gold Star Mother's and Family's Day is proclaimed by Presidents each year to honor the mothers and families of American men and women serving in the US Armed Forces who died or were wounded in service to their country. It honors the strength, determination, and sacrifices of those families that have to endure the temporal or sometimes - permanent - loss of their loved ones for the future of the United States of America.

Africa

Sep

Good Neighbor Day, Ntl.: September 28

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Good Neighbor Day is a national celebration, first held in 1976 when President Gerald R. Ford declared it. Good Neighbor Day honors the neighboring spirit that helped build the thirteen original colonies of the United States and united them with a single purpose. Good Neighbor Day exemplifies the American spirit.

Africa

Sep

Google.com Day (1997): September 27

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JUST GOOGLE IT! CELEBRATING THE ANNIVERSARY OF GOOGLE Google Day is an informal celebration observed on September 27th each year, marking the anniversary of the creation of the world's most popular search engine, Google, in 1997. This day honors Google's transformative impact on the internet and modern society. While there are no official celebrations, tech enthusiasts and Google fans often take the day to reflect on how the company has changed the way people access and share information. Google was founded in 1998 by Larry Page and Sergey Brin while they were Ph.D. students at Stanford University. The company began as a research project to improve online search technology, organize the world's information, and make it universally accessible and helpful. Their innovation, known as PageRank, analyzed the relationships between websites, allowing Google to deliver more relevant search results than existing search engines. The name "Google" is derived from the mathematical term "googol," which refers to the number 1 followed by 100 zeros. Milton Sirotta, the nine-year-old nephew of mathematician Edward Kasner, coined the term, which was popularized in the book Mathematics and the Imagination by Kasner and James Newman. Larry Page and Sergey Brin chose this name to signify their mission to organize a seemingly infinite amount of information on the web. The misspelling of "googol" as "Google" became the company's official name, reflecting their playful, innovative approach to technology and the vast scale of their ambition. GOOGLE'S IMPACT Google's impact on the world has been profound. The search engine has become synonymous with finding information online, to the point that "Googling" has entered the lexicon as a verb meaning to search the internet. Beyond search, Google has expanded into various sectors, including online advertising with Google Ads, video sharing through YouTube, and mobile operating systems with Android. These innovations have not only transformed how people interact with the web but also influenced your daily lives, making you a part of the digital revolution that has touched billions worldwide. Google's rise to dominance occurred due to a few specific facts. Its superior search algorithms provided more accurate and relevant results than its competitors. The company also emphasized a simple, user-friendly interface that contrasted sharply with the cluttered designs of other search engines at the time. Another aspect of Google's rise was embedding Google in various software packages delivered by computers and phones, which has led to accusations of monopoly, unfair trade practices and several lawsuits and fines in different parts of the world. Today, Google remains a cornerstone of the internet, continuously evolving to meet its users' needs and shaping the digital landscape in the process. Google's relentless focus on improving its search technology, strategic acquisitions and developing complementary products and services helped it become the leading search engine globally. This ongoing evolution promises a future where Google will continue to innovate and make our digital experiences even more seamless and enriching.

Africa

Sep

Goose for Prosperity Day (Eat a): September 29

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September 29 is the Feast of Saint Michael and All Angels, or Michaelmas Day, a Christian religious holiday dedicated to Archangel Michael, the guardian, and protector of the people. In 15th century Europe, rent was paid to the landlord four times a year or near the seasons change. Michaelmas Day was one of those four days. It was customary for tenants to present landlords with a goose in addition to their rent payment. Michaelmas marks the end of the harvest, and if the harvest goes well, the lease will be renewed. The custom became known in secular circles as Eat a Goose for Prosperity Day.

Africa

Sep

Gospel Music Heritage Month, Ntl.: September

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September is the National Gospel Music Heritage Month. Pioneered by Alvin V. Williams in 2007, this awareness month aims to educate and celebrate gospel music's forms and heritage. Established in the US House of Representatives and Senate, local and National celebrations are held to commemorate this event.

Africa

Sep

Grains Month, Whole: September

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Whole Grains Month is your opportunity to sample various whole grains and try something new, and it is sponsored annually by the Whole Grains Council. Below is a list of the types of whole grain from the Whole Grain Council. See how many of these you've tried: Amaranth Barley Buckwheat Bulgur Corn Einkorn Farro / Emmer Fonio Freekeh Kamut® Khorasan Grain Kañiwa Millet Oats Quinoa Rice Rye Sorghum / Milo Spelt Teﬀ Triticale Wheat Wild Rice

Africa

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