All - Leep Calendar

Grandmother Achievement Day is an unofficial event that honors and recognizes grandmothers' significant contributions and achievements. This day serves as a heartfelt tribute to grandmothers' unique role in families and society, acknowledging their wisdom, love, and influence that transcend generations. Grandparents, especially grandmothers, hold a vital place in the family dynamic. They often act as secondary caregivers, mentors, and historians, passing down traditions, stories, and values that shape family heritage and individual identities. Grandmothers, in particular, are seen as nurturing figures who provide emotional support, wisdom, and unconditional love. Their experiences and knowledge are invaluable in guiding younger generations through various life challenges. In many cultures, grandmothers are the matriarchs of families and a pivotal link between the past and the present. They play a crucial role in childcare, allowing parents to work while ensuring children grow up in a loving, stable environment. Grandmothers often teach essential life skills, share cultural practices, and contribute to their grandchildren's emotional and moral development. Beyond the family, seniors, including grandmothers, are uniquely positioned in society. They are carriers of history, tradition, and cultural knowledge. In community settings, grandmothers often act as advisors and leaders, drawing on their wealth of experience to contribute to community wellbeing. Many also actively volunteer, sharing their time and skills to benefit others. The celebration of Grandmother Achievement Day varies from family to family. It may include gatherings where family members express gratitude and love, share stories, and create new memories. Some families may present gifts, create homemade tokens of appreciation, or engage in activities that grandmothers enjoy. The day may include community events and social media campaigns that acknowledge and celebrate the myriad contributions of grandmothers. Grandmother Achievement Day is a day to honor and appreciate grandmothers' unique and invaluable contributions. It's an opportunity to acknowledge their role in nurturing family bonds, preserving traditions, and providing wisdom and love. This day underscores the broader societal recognition of seniors' importance and ongoing impact within communities and families.

Africa

Feb

Grapefruit Month, Ntl.: February

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Nation Grapefruit Month occurs each year in February. The purpose is to focus on the health benefits of eating grapefruit. Though the largest of the commercially cultivated citrus fruits, grapefruit was named such by a Jamaican farmer in the early 19th Century because they grow in clusters, like grapes. Grapefruit is the only known citrus fruit not to have originated in Southeast Asia. The earliest account shows it to be from the West Indies, and it is a combination of two fruits: oranges and pummelo. The fruit first arrived in the United States in 1823 via either French or Spanish settlers in Florida. The sweetest version, the Ruby Red Grapefruit, was an accident discovered in the late 1920s groves of Texas. The fruit was granted a patent and became the hallmark of the Texas citrus industry. Today grapefruit is grown in several warm climates, including Texas, California, and Florida. Color can range from off-white to deep red.

Africa

Feb

Great American Pizza Bake: February 8-14

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The Great American Pizza Bake, celebrated during the second week of February, is an annual event dedicated to the beloved culinary staple, pizza. This week-long celebration encourages people across the United States to bake their pizzas at home, experimenting with various toppings, styles, and techniques. The purpose of this event is not just to indulge in pizza but also to foster family bonding and creativity in the kitchen while appreciating the rich history and cultural significance of pizza. Pizza's history dates back to ancient times, with various cultures preparing flatbreads with toppings. However, the modern pizza originated in Naples, Italy, in the late 18th to early 19th century. Initially, it was food for the lower classes, a simple and affordable dish made with readily available ingredients. The classic Margherita pizza, topped with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, was created in 1889 by chef Raffaele Esposito in honor of Queen Margherita of Savoy. The colors of the pizza—red, white, and green—were intended to represent the Italian flag. Pizza arrived in the United States with Italian immigrants in the late 19th century. It remained mainly within Italian communities until after World War II when returning American soldiers stationed in Italy helped popularize it. From there, pizza rapidly became a part of American culture. The latter half of the 20th century saw the rise of pizza chains and the development of distinct American styles, like New York thin crust, Chicago deep dish, and California-style pizzas. The Great American Pizza Bake integrates pizza into American culture and cuisine. It's a time when families and friends gather to share the joy of making and eating pizza, exploring a variety of toppings and flavors that reflect the diversity of American culinary tastes. From traditional pepperoni and cheese to more gourmet and culturally diverse toppings, the event showcases pizza's versatility and universal appeal. During this week, schools, community centers, and culinary enthusiasts often host pizza-making classes and contests, fostering community involvement and culinary education. Social media platforms buzz with homemade pizza recipes and photos, further promoting the event. In summary, the Great American Pizza Bake is an annual homage to pizza, celebrating its journey from a simple Neapolitan dish to a staple of American cuisine. It's a week that highlights the culinary creativity and diversity of pizza and underscores its role in bringing people together in the kitchen and at the dining table.

Africa

Feb

Green (Clean) Monday (C): February 23

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Also known as Clean Monday, Green Monday is the first Monday of Lent in the Orthodox Christian faith. It's time to clean the house for the Lent season.

Africa

Feb

Green Week, Ntl: February 3 - April 30

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National Green Week is a school-based annual event where schools dedicate a week to green learning and sustainability-focused programs between February and April. To enroll, teachers need to become members of GEF. Once a member, Pick any week between the first week in Feb. and April 30 to be your Green Week. Select a sustainability-themed program and integrate the grade-specific lessons, activities, and readings. Complete this survey at the end of your Green Week and be entered to win a $100 Amex gift card. Upon completion, submit your program to Green in Action Award. Prizes include up to $250 for your class or school. Learn more at: greeneducationfoundation.org

Africa

Feb

Gregorian Calendar Day (1582): February 24

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On February 24, 1582, Pope Gregory XIII established the Gregorian calendar via a Pappel Bull, the primary calendar used today and underlying international commerce. The new calendar went into effect on October 4, 1582. In 1752 it became the official calendar throughout most of Europe and the empire colonies. Russia, a holdout, started using it in the 20th century. The Julian calendar, which the world was using, was created by Julius Cesar. It had a problem, though. It wasn't accurate. Every year it was off by 11.5 minutes. Over centuries, 11 minutes per year adds up. When Pope Gregory established the new calendar, Cesar’s was ten days off. The Julian calendar added an extra day every four years to account for the extra quarter day it takes the sun to rotate around the earth. We call this a "leap year." This idea may have come from the Hebrew calendar, which adds a thirteenth month, Adar II, to account for the difference between the moon and sun rotations in its leap years. The Gregorian calendar addressed the missing 11.5 minutes and split time into two eras: before the birth of Jesus Christ (BC) and after the nativity, or anno Domini (AD), "the [first] year of our Lord" in Latin. Of course, non-Christian religions and secularists didn't like this, so they changed it to "Before the Common Era" (BCE) and "Common Era" (CE). No matter what you call it, the demarcation point is still the same: the birth of Jesus Christ. Orthodox Christians still use the Julian calendar (off by 11 days when the Gregorian calendar was adopted globally in 1752) as their religious calendar, which is why you'll find two different celebrations of Easter and Christmas each year. Other religions use their calendars, most of which follow the movements of the sun, moon, and-or stars. These calendars are shorter than the Gregorian, now the international standard. The oldest calendar in the world is the Byzantine calendar, which began marking time over 7,500 years ago.

Africa

Feb

Groundhog Day (1886): February 2

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Groundhog Day is an American tradition with roots in the Roman Empire, though it combines pagan rituals with Christian observances. It coincides with Candlemas, the date in the Christian calendar 40 days after the birth of Christ, representing the purification of the Virgin Mary. It is the reason Groundhog day occurs on February 2nd. Various legends in Europe state that winter will continue if the sun shines on Candlemas, and if it is cloudy, winter will end early. The idea of using an animal to predict the length of winter comes from the Romans. The Romans often used the exit from the hibernation of various animals to predict future events, regarding the creatures as omens. Punxsutawney Phil of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, is the name of the groundhog used to predict whether winter will continue or spring will be early. It’s a big event each year reported all over the United States. The first time Punxsutawney Phil predicted the weather was in 1886.

Africa

Feb

Guitar Day, Get Out Your : February 11

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Got the winter blues? Call some friends, light the fire and pull out your guitar for a little down-home fun. Get Out Your Guitar Day is set aside at the height of winter to bring a little musical cheer to the long nights and short cold days.

Africa

Feb

Gulf Coast Rip Current Awareness Week, Ntl.: February 23-27

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Gulf Coast Rip Current Awareness Week is n public service campaign supported by the US Government’s National Weather Service and other agencies. More people die from rip currents than tornados, flooding, tropical torms or lightning combined each decade. Most rip current fatalities are visitors from non-coastal locations. Rip currents are powerful currents of water moving away from shore and are the leading surf hazard for all beachgoers, especially for weak or nonswimmers. The United States Lifesaving Association states that 80 percent of surf beach rescues are attributed to rip currents. Over 100 people die annually from drowning when they cannot escape a rip current. Rip currents form when waves break near the shoreline, piling up water between the breaking waves at the beach. One of the ways this water returns to the sea is to form a rip current, a narrow jet of water that moves swiftly offshore, roughly perpendicular to the shoreline. Under most tide and sea conditions, the speeds are relatively slow; however, under a particular wave, swell, and beach profile conditions, their speed can quickly increase to become dangerous to anyone entering the surf, even the most experienced swimmers. Rip currents can be very narrow to hundreds of meters wide. The seaward pull of rip currents varies from just beyond the line of breaking waves to hundreds of yards offshore.

Africa

Jan

Gulf Food Show (UE): January 26-30

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Gulf Food is the most prominent exhibition for restaurants and food in the GCC. The Middle East’s food service industry brings in over USD 25 billion per year, with casual dining and fast food restaurants representing the most significant segment at 58%. Over 5000 companies from more than 120 countries participate annually.

Africa

Feb

Gulf of America Day (2025): February 9

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GULF OF AMERICA DAY SERIOUSLY? The Gulf of Mexico has been the “Gulf of Mexico” since the 1550s. However, as it is an official Presidential Proclamation bordering on absurdity, we must cover it. A Presidential Ode to the "Gulf of America" Behold! The ninth of February, twenty-twenty-five,A day so monumental, the pelicans high-five.No matter if since 1550 it was “Gulf of Mexico” called,With one grand scratch of my pen, all that is forestalled! I signed that faithful order, fueling national pride,Turning centuries of history on its satirical side.“Restore American greatness!” – my rallying cry,We’ll just rename this ocean nook—who needs to ask why? From proud Texas waves to Florida’s sandy spa,This is now the Gulf of America—exclámalo, “Hurrah!”Pay no heed to fish or charts older than our states,They’ll catch up soon enough, thanks to these new dictates. Today I fly on Air Force One to see this gem,A testament to power—just ask my black Sharpie pen.Let us celebrate ahistorically with pomp and parades,And pretend the last 475 years were but passing charades. So rejoice, America—rewrite that watery tale!Wave banners, start ceremonies, let the party horns wail.As I proclaim Gulf of America Day with zeal,The world sighs, awaiting accountability over this blasted beal.”

Africa

Feb

Gum Disease Awareness Month: February

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KEEPING YOUR TEETH GUM DISEASE AWARENESS MONTH Gum Disease Awareness Month, created in 20212, draws attention to one of the most widespread yet preventable oral health issues. The campaign enlists support from professional groups such as the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Periodontology to educate the public about identifying and preventing gum disease. Gum disease takes two primary forms: gingivitis and periodontitis. Gingivitis, the milder stage, typically involves inflamed gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing. If left untreated, gingivitis can progress to periodontitis, a more serious condition that can damage the bones supporting the teeth. In severe cases, teeth can loosen or even fall out. Preventing gum disease starts with diligent oral hygiene: brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled brush, flossing daily, and scheduling regular dental checkups. Dentists often encourage patients to avoid smoking and maintain a balanced diet, as both contribute to overall gum health. Warning signs of gum disease include persistent bad breath, red or swollen gums, and gums that bleed easily. Some individuals may notice gum recession or teeth that appear longer, symptoms that can indicate an advanced stage of periodontitis. Receding gums—often linked to gum disease—expose more of the tooth’s root and can lead to sensitivity or infection. Experts say that gentle brushing techniques, treating misaligned teeth, and addressing teeth grinding (bruxism) are additional steps to help protect against gum recession. For many dental professionals and patients alike, Gum Disease Awareness Month serves as a timely reminder that vigilance and routine care go a long way toward preserving a healthy smile for life.

Africa

Feb

Gumdrop Day, Ntl.: February 15

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You know them by several names: Jujubes, Juicy Fruit, and even DOTS. Gumdrops, the sweet or spice candy, first gained popularity in the 1920s and quickly became a staple at movie theaters. Unlike chocolates, they don’t melt in your hands. Gumdrops are made with pectin, gelatin, sugar, juice, and spices.

Africa

Feb

Guru Ravidas Jayanti (H)(S)(1377): February 1

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Today marks the birthday of Hindu Guru Ravidas, who was born on this month's full moon in 1377 AD or 1450 AD, depending upon the source (historians disagree). Each year on this day, the faithful form an Aarti and a Nagar Kirtan procession with the guru's portrait displayed. It is a festival atmosphere of music and dance as the crowd makes its way to the local temple. When a river is near, devotees immerse in the water to perform rites. Guru Raviass was one of the first civil rights activists. He taught that one is distinguished not by one's caste (jāti) but by one's actions (karma) and that everyone has the right to worship God and read holy texts. Today is a day in the Hindu and Sikh calendars set aside to honor him. 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

Feb

Haiku Writing Month, Ntl.: February

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National Haiku Writing Month, known as NaHaiWriMo, is a celebration dedicated to writing Haiku poetry. It was established in February 2011 by Michael Dylan Welch, a poet and author from Washington, USA. The concept was inspired by National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo), aiming to encourage people to write at least one haiku each day throughout February. This initiative promotes the art of haiku and fosters a global community of poets and enthusiasts who share a passion for this poetic form. Haiku is a traditional Japanese poetry known for its simplicity, brevity, and depth. Traditionally, a haiku follows a 5-7-5 syllable structure across three lines. This structure, however, needs to be more strictly adhered to in English haiku, focusing more on capturing a moment or emotion in just a few words. Haiku often includes a kigo (a seasonal word) and is written in the present tense to create a sense of immediacy. Despite its brief format, haiku can convey different interpretations and layers of meaning. National Haiku Writing Month occurs every February, from the 1st to the 28th (or 29th in leap years). It welcomes participants of all ages, nationalities, and writing experiences. The month-long celebration is not a competition but an opportunity for individuals to express their creativity through haiku and to connect with others who appreciate this poetic form. The history of haiku dates back to the late 1600s in Japan, with Matsuo Bashō recognized as one of its greatest masters. Initially, haiku prose was written in Japanese, but the form gained international recognition and evolved. Modern haiku in Japanese and English often vary from the traditional 5-7-5 structure and explore a broader range of subjects beyond nature. These haiku aim to capture the essence of each moment, adhering to the traditional 5-7-5 syllable structure. The first reflects the bond between a man and his dog, while the second paints the serene beauty of a sunset over the ocean. MAN'S BEST FRIEND Old man and his dog, Footprints blend in the pathway, Silent companions. WATCHING THE SUNSET Sunset kisses sea, Horizon in tangerine, Waves whisper goodnight. During National Haiku Writing Month, people are encouraged to write and share their haiku on social media platforms and participate in community events such as workshops and open mic nights. Haiku Writing Month helps spread the joy of haiku writing and connects people globally through poetry.

Africa