All - Leep Calendar

Engineers Week was created in 1951 to introduce youth to exciting and well-paying careers in engineering, including civil, mechanical, electrical, agricultural, chemical, computer, aeronautical, biological, and ventilating (to name a few). Each day of the week has a different focus. The key objectives of this week include the following: 1. Celebrate how engineers make a difference in our world. 2. Increase public dialogue about the need for engineers. 3. Bring engineering to life for kids, educators, and parents. Check with local science and technology museums and universities in your area for events planned for your city.

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Feb

Enrolled Agents Month, Ntl.: February

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Enrolled Agents Month is celebrated annually in the United States in February, preceding the traditional tax filing season. This period is a time for acknowledging the contributions of Enrolled Agents in assisting taxpayers with tax preparation, offering tax advice, and representing clients in disputes with the IRS. Enrolled Agents (EAs), a distinctive group of tax professionals, have a history intertwined with the financial evolution of the United States. The origin of the Enrolled Agent profession dates back to the aftermath of the Civil War, specifically with the passing of the Revenue Act of 1862. This legislation, introduced to fund the Union's war effort, established the country's first income tax. It also led to the creation of the Commissioner of Internal Revenue, a pivotal figure in the administration of tax laws. The introduction of income tax inevitably resulted in complexities and discrepancies in its application, leading to the need for experts to represent citizens in their dealings with the newly formed Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Thus, in 1884, the role of the Enrolled Agent was formally established by Congress to advocate for taxpayers. These individuals were granted the privilege of representing taxpayers before the federal government, particularly in cases of questionable tax returns. Over the years, the role and significance of Enrolled Agents evolved alongside the complexities of the U.S. tax code. They became instrumental in helping individuals and businesses navigate the intricacies of tax laws and regulations. EAs are unique in the tax professional community as they are the only group with federal licensure. They earn this designation by passing a comprehensive IRS test covering individual and business tax returns or having experience as a former IRS employee. Their federal license enables them to represent taxpayers in all fifty states, which sets them apart from other tax professionals usually licensed by individual states. During Enrolled Agents Month, educational seminars, public awareness campaigns, and community service initiatives for underserved populations needing discounted tax help. Professional bodies such as the National Association of Enrolled Agents (NAEA) play a pivotal role in these celebrations, using the opportunity to educate the public about the benefits of working with an EA and to promote the profession's high standards of ethics, professionalism, and expertise.

Africa

Feb

Epilepsy Day, World: February 9

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International Epilepsy Day features art contests, fundraisers, a social media campaign, and dozens of other activities to raise awareness and support for people with epilepsy. From the Sponsor: "Started in 2015 and organized by the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) and the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE), the day provides a platform for people with epilepsy to share their experiences and stories with a global audience. The day also calls for all people to advocate for appropriate legislation that will guarantee the human rights of people with epilepsy and encourages people with epilepsy to live to their fullest potential. The Epilepsy Foundation is a full member of IBE." International Epilepsy Day is one of two International/World Epilepsy Days. The other occurs in March and is known as Purple Day, the official color of epilepsy.

Africa

Feb

Equal Pay Day for Women (DE): February 27

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Equal Pay Day in Germany shows how many days a man would have to work without pay to earn what a woman earns for the same job each year. This statistical representation illustrates the gap between men's and women's wages in Germany. The date is announced in the first quarter of each year.

Africa

Feb

Essay Day, Intl.(1533): : February 28

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International Essay Day falls on the birthday of Michel de Montaigne, one of the most influential writers of the French Renaissance. Montaigne popularized the essay as a literary genre. He was born on February 28, 1533, into a family of nobility in the Aquitaine region of France. Montaigne's contributions to literature are principally linked to his seminal work, "Essais," published in two volumes in 1580 and 1588. The term "essay" comes from the French word "essayer," which means to try or to attempt. Montaigne chose this term for his writings to convey his attempts to put his thoughts into writing in a series of ponderings and meditations. His essays were distinct from other literary forms of the time due to their intensely personal nature, combining intellectual speculation with anecdotal and autobiographical content. Montaigne's Essays covered a broad range of topics, from the profound and philosophical to the mundane and every day. His writing was revolutionary in its candidness and use of the first person, which was uncommon at the time. Montaigne was a skeptic who questioned the certainty of knowledge and the nature of reality, which he explored through his essays. The Essays are considered the forerunner to modern thought and have influenced countless writers and philosophers. Montaigne's introspective approach laid the groundwork for later writers and thinkers to explore human nature and the self from a subjective point of view. Montaigne's impact on the essay as a literary form was profound. He set the stage for essayists to explore a variety of subjects through the lens of personal reflection and opinion. His legacy lives on in how essays express individual perspectives, challenge readers' beliefs, and engage with the broader human experience.

Africa

Feb

Ethnic Equity Month: February

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Africa

Feb

Exploding Hammer Festival (MX-GT): February 16

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The Exploding Hammer Festival, also known as the Festival of San Juan de la Vega, is a tradition in San Juan de la Vega, Guanajuato, Mexico. It is part of the carnival season leading up to the 40-day fast of Lent, two days before Ash Wednesday. Saint John, was a Mexican version of Robinhood in the 17th century and was "sainted" by the townspeople. He is the town's patron and the event's marquee, but Judas, the betrayer of Jesus, gets the attention. For the primary exhibition, participants dressed in brightly colored costumes and masks represent Judas and carry sledgehammers into the village square. In teams, each strikes a greased pole, [el palo encebado], to create the spark that ignites the oil leading to the top where fireworks are attached. The team that manages to ignite the fireworks is declared the festival winner. On a smaller scale, men and boys attach fireworks and small explosives to the face of sledgehammers and smash them throughout the streets. The festival is believed to have originated during the pre-Hispanic as a spring equinox celebration. Like many local customs, it was incorporated into the Catholic calendar as a festival to celebrate a saint.

Africa

Feb

Extraterrestrial Culture Day: February 10

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In 1947 a UFO was reported sighted over Roswell, New Mexico, making Roswell a mecca for UFO seekers and shrouded in mystery. Playing into the comedy, the New Mexico legislature passed a memorial recognizing the second Tuesday of February as Extraterrestrial Culture Day each year beginning in 2003. The memorial was put forth by Representative Daniel Foley of Roswell. It has since become an international phenomenon. Globally, celebrants dress up like an alien and probe and ponder the possibilities of life elsewhere in the universe.

Africa

Feb

Family Day (CA-BC): February 9

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Family Day is celebrated in British Columbia a week earlier than the rest of the country to permit Louis Riel Day, which falls on Family Day, its observance. Family Day is a national holiday in Canada and is set aside for family activities.

Africa

Feb

Family Day, Except BC (CA) : February 16

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Family Day (also known as Louis Riel Day) is a national holiday in Canada and is set aside for family activities. It is celebrated today in all provinces except British Columbia, which celebrates it a week earlier.

Africa

Feb

Fart Day: February 5

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Fart Day began as a joke on the internet in 2008 and embraces the natural act of passing gas or flatulence. Flatulence is a normal biological process caused by the accumulation of gas in the digestive system, typically due to the breakdown of food by digestion and bacteria. The average person passes gas anywhere from 5 to 15 times a day, although this can vary based on dietary habits and overall health. To minimize flatulence, one can try the following strategies: Eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly: Swallowing too much air while eating, which can happen if you eat too quickly, contributes to gas production. Avoid carbonated beverages: Drinks containing gas can increase the air in your digestive system. Limit high-fiber foods if necessary: While a high-fiber diet benefits digestive health, it can increase gas production. Some people may need to adjust their fiber intake gradually to allow their digestive system to adapt. Reduce intake of gas-producing foods: Foods like beans, lentils, dairy, onions, and certain vegetables can cause increased gas for some individuals. Exercise regularly: Physical activity can help move gas through the digestive system. Check for food intolerances: If certain foods consistently cause excessive gas, it might be worth checking for food intolerances, such as lactose or gluten intolerance. Consider over-the-counter remedies: Products containing simethicone can help break up the bubbles in gas, and charcoal tablets are said to absorb gas in the digestive system. Maintain a balanced diet: Ensuring a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients can help maintain gut health and reduce flatulence. It's essential to note that while excessive flatulence can sometimes be embarrassing, it's usually not a cause for concern health-wise.

Africa

Feb

Fasching Sunday (DE/AT): February 15

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Part of the Lutheran and Catholic traditions heading into the 40 days of penance and fasting before Easter, Fasching Sunday is the final Sunday service. It is called Tulip Sunday and is Carnaval, German style.

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Feb

Fasching Sunday (DE/AT): February 15

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Feb

Fastelavn(NO/SE/FI/GL/IS/DK) : February 17

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Fastelavn, a traditional celebration observed in several Scandinavian countries, is a festive occasion that marks the coming of spring and the prelude to the Lenten season. Rooted in both pagan customs and Christian traditions, Fastelavn typically falls on the Sunday or Monday before Ash Wednesday, primarily in Denmark, Norway, and parts of Sweden. Fastelavn traces to medieval times when it began as a pre-Lenten festival that combined Christian rituals with older seasonal celebrations. It was a time of feasting and merriment before the 40 days of fasting during Lent. The customs associated with Fastelavn are varied and rich. In Denmark, children dress up in costumes and go door to door, singing in exchange for treats, reminiscent of the Halloween tradition in other countries. One of the most characteristic traditions of Fastelavn is the "slå katten af tønden" (hit the cat out of the barrel), where children use sticks to hit a wooden barrel decorated with a picture of a cat. This practice historically symbolized the driving away of evil spirits, though, in modern times, the barrel contains candy and fruits, serving as a piñata-like game for children. In addition to the fun and games, Fastelavn buns, known as "fastelavnsboller," are a culinary highlight. These sweet pastries come in various styles, often filled with cream or jam and topped with icing. In Norway, 'Fastelavensris'—decorative branches with feathers—are also a part of the tradition, symbolizing the coming of spring. Fastelavn is not only a children's festival; it extends to all ages and includes parties, parades, and other community events. It serves as an opportunity to gather and enjoy the last days of winter, looking forward to the warmth and renewal of spring. Fastelavn is a Scandinavian festival with deep historical roots that blends ancient customs with Christian traditions. It is a joyous celebration featuring a variety of unique cultural practices, from children's games to celebratory foods, all heralding the end of winter and the anticipation of spring and the Lenten season.

Africa

Feb

Fastnacht Day: February 17

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Fasnacht Day has a rich and varied history, and its celebration continues to evolve and adapt to new cultural and social contexts worldwide. Fasnacht Day, also known as Fat Tuesday or Mardi Gras, is a traditional holiday celebrated in various parts of the world, particularly in Europe and the Americas. The holiday is typically observed on the day before Ash Wednesday, heading into the Christian season of Lent. The history of Fasnacht Day dates back several centuries, tracing to medieval Europe. In many cultures, the day before the start of Lent was a time of feasting and merriment as people prepared to observe the solemn period of fasting and reflection in the weeks ahead. One of the earliest known references to Fasnacht Day comes from the city of Basel in Switzerland, where a carnival tradition known as Fasnacht began in the 14th century. The festival features elaborate parades, street performers, and other festivities—a final burst of enjoyment before the austere period of Lent begins. Similar celebrations occur throughout Europe, including Germany, Austria, and France, under Karneval, Fasching, and Carnaval and are often associated with masks and costumes as people participate in parades and street parties. In the United States, Fasnacht Day is heralded by the Pennsylvania Dutch, particularly in Lancaster and York. Central to Pennsylvania celebrations is a doughnut called a "fasnacht," made with potato dough and fried in lard. The eating of fasnachts the day before Lent arrived in the region by German settlers in the 18th and 19th centuries.

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