All - Leep Calendar

National Cheeseburger Day celebrates an international favorite, the cheeseburger. A cheeseburger is a hamburger with cheese. Where did the hamburger come from initially? Mongolia. Mongolia is a cold country, and in the 11th century, everyone traveled by horse. The Mongols were ranchers and raised several herd animals. They sold the meat from their herds across Eurasia, with Moscow being a primary market. Unfortunately, on horseback, there isn't a lot of storage space for meat or anything else. The Mongols flattened the beef into patties, making it easier to carry and sell in small quantities. Eventually, sailors took this idea west to Europe. Hamburg, Germany, where they ground beef and served it as a patty, the Hamburg steak. Ground meat easily mixes with other ingredients, extending its ability to feed more people, making it an economical form of meat, and it cooks faster. People would often wrap the meat in bread, but there was no purpose-built bread for the patty yet. The Hamburg steak arrived in the US with immigrants, and in 1916 Walter Anderson, a short-order cook, decided to make it portable. He created the hamburger bun and founded White Castle, the first fast food hamburger chain. Versions abound of who had the great idea to add cheese to the hamburger. We know that between 1924 and 1926, "cheeseburgers" began popping up on menus.

Africa

Sep

Cherries Jubilee Day, Ntl.: September 24

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National Cherries Jubilee Day honors the British dessert, which includes cherries, sauce, and brandy over vanilla ice cream. The dessert is then lit on fire, creating a blue flame. Auguste Escoffie created this dessert for Queen Victoria of England's 1897 Diamond Jubilee celebration. The event was held on Sunday, June 20, 1897, and marked the 60th anniversary of her throne inheritance.

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Sep

Chewing Gum Day: September 30

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Chewing Gum Day celebrates the frustration of all janitors, gum. The practice of chewing a substance goes back to the 1st century AD, when the Greeks, the Mayans, and other civilizations chewed various substances to clean teeth and freshen their breath. By the 18th century, the South American sapodilla tree's milky extract, chicle (think Chiclet's Gum), became chewing gum, what we call latex today. The next incarnation came from John B. Curtis, who developed the original commercial chewing gum, "The State of Maine Pure Spruce Gum," in 1848. It was the gum of a spruce tree. Modern chewing gum originates with William F. Semple, who used a flavored synthetic rubber to help patients strengthen their jaw. A dentist by trade, he filed the patent for his chewing gum on December 28, 1869. Amos Tyler of Toledo, Ohio, filed a similar patent on July 27 of the same year. Semple's patent is the one that reigned.

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Sep

Chicken Boy Day (US-CA)(1960s): September 1

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Sometimes referred to as the "California Statue of Liberty," Chicken Boy has stood guard over American pop culture and the famed Route 66 since the 1960s. The actual year the statue was erected is unknown, though September 1 is his birthday. In the 1950s and 1960s, to attract tourists, many companies created iconic representations of their fares to draw in businesses, especially along Route 66. Randy's Doughnut's giant doughnut in Inglewood is another very well-known icon. Chicken Boy received the Governor's Historic Preservation Award in 2010 and is located at North Figueroa Street in Highland Park in Los Angeles.

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Sep

Chicken Month, Ntl.: September

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National Chicken Month focuses on the versatility, economic, and health benefits of including chicken in your diet. Sponsored by the National Chicken Council (NCC).

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Sep

Child Passenger Safety Week: September 20-26

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Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for children ages 1-12. Many deaths and injuries are preventable through the proper use of car seats, booster seats, and seat belts. This annual week sponsored by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration exists to help parents and caregivers ensure they always use the correct car seats for their children, according to age and size.

Africa

Sep

Child Protection Week, Ntl. (AU): September 7-13 (est)

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NATIONAL CHILD PROTECTION WEEK: ADVOCATING FOR THE SAFETY AND WELL-BEING OF CHILDREN Australia observes National Child Protection Week in September, a campaign dedicated to promoting the safety and well-being of children. Led by the National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN), this initiative aims to raise awareness about child abuse and neglect, encourage prevention strategies, and advocate for the rights of children across the nation. The primary goal of National Child Protection Week is to increase public awareness about the importance of child protection and to mobilize communities to take action against child abuse and neglect. The week-long campaign emphasizes the need for a collective effort to create safe, nurturing environments for children and to support families in providing loving and protective care. WHY IS CHILD PROTECTION IMPORTANT? Child protection is crucial for ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow and develop in a safe and supportive environment. Protecting children from abuse and neglect helps: Ensure Healthy Development—A safe environment allows children to thrive physically, emotionally, and mentally. Promote Educational Success—Children who feel safe and supported are more likely to succeed academically. Break the Cycle of Abuse—Intervening early in a child's life can prevent the continuation of abuse across generations. Build Strong Communities—Protecting children contributes to communities' overall well-being and strength. WARNING SIGNS OF CHILD ABUSE Recognizing the warning signs of child abuse is essential for early intervention and protection. These signs can include: Physical Indicators—Unexplained bruises, burns, fractures, or other injuries. Behavioral Changes—Sudden changes in behavior, such as aggression, withdrawal, or fearfulness. Emotional Distress—Excessive anxiety, depression, or fear of specific people or places. Neglect—Poor hygiene, malnutrition, or inappropriate clothing for the weather. Sexual Abuse—Knowledge or interest in sexual behaviors inappropriate for the child's age or discomfort with physical contact. PREVENTING CHILD ABUSE There are several steps individuals and communities can take to prevent child abuse: Educate and Raise Awareness—Spread knowledge about the signs of abuse and the importance of child protection. Support Families—Provide resources and support to families under stress, including parenting programs and financial assistance. Report Suspected Abuse—If you suspect abuse, report it to the appropriate authorities immediately. Create Safe Environments—Ensure schools, childcare centers, and community organizations have policies and procedures to protect children. Foster Strong Relationships—Build strong, trusting relationships with children so they feel comfortable reporting any issues or concerns. National Child Protection Week is a critical observance that highlights the importance of safeguarding children from abuse and neglect. The campaign aims to create a safer and more nurturing environment for every child in Australia by raising awareness, educating communities, and advocating for children's rights. Through collective action and a commitment to child protection, we can ensure that all children have the opportunity to grow up safe, healthy, and supported.

Africa

Sep

Child Seat Check Saturday, Ntl.: September 26

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Car crashes are a leading cause of death for children 1 to 13 years old in the United States. Prevent vehicle deaths and injuries by properly using car seats, boosters, and seat belts. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides a toolkit with information and ideas on generating awareness about child car safety in your community during Child Passenger Safety Week and National Seat Check Saturday.

Africa

Sep

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Intl.: September

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Created by Presidential Proclamation in 2012, International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month seeks to raise awareness about the various types of childhood cancer, raise funds for research and support the families caring for children with these illnesses. International Childhood Cancer Awareness Month is observed worldwide, with each nation’s health ministry or childhood cancer charities providing support and materials.

Africa

Sep

Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, Ntl.: September

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CHILDHOOD OBESITY AWARENESS MONTH: ADDRESSING A GROWING HEALTH CRISIS Every September, the United States observes Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, an initiative to bring attention to the childhood obesity epidemic and promote healthier lifestyles for children. Organizations including the American Heart Association, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services spearhead this observance. THE RISE IN CHILDHOOD OBESITY OVER THE PAST FIVE YEARS Over the past five decades, the prevalence of childhood obesity has more than tripled in the United States. In the 1970s, approximately 5% of children aged 2 to 19 were considered obese. That number has risen to around 19%, affecting about 14.7 million children and adolescents. This alarming increase is attributed to various factors, including changes in diet, physical activity levels, and environmental influences. TOP FIVE CAUSES OF OBESITY IN CHILDREN Poor Diet—The consumption of high-calorie, low-nutrient foods such as sugary drinks, fast food, and snacks contributes significantly to weight gain in children. Lack of Physical Activity—Increased screen time and sedentary lifestyles have reduced the amount of physical exercise children engage in, leading to weight gain. Genetics—Family history and genetics can predispose children to obesity, influencing their metabolism and fat storage. Environmental Factors—Limited access to healthy foods and safe places for physical activity, particularly in low-income neighborhoods, can increase the risk of obesity. Psychological Factors—Stress, depression, and anxiety can lead to overeating or unhealthy eating habits in children. THE IMPORTANCE OF ELIMINATING CHILDHOOD OBESITY Addressing childhood obesity is crucial for several reasons. Obesity in children is associated with a higher risk of developing chronic health conditions such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and certain cancers. Additionally, obese children are more likely to experience social and psychological issues, including bullying, low self-esteem, and depression. By tackling obesity early, we can improve children's overall health, quality of life, and long-term well-being. HOW CAN AN OBESE CHILD SLIM DOWN? Balanced Diet—Encourage a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit sugary drinks and high-calorie, low-nutrient foods. Regular Physical Activity—Children should engage in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily. Activities can include sports, dancing, biking, or simply playing outside. Healthy Habits—Promote healthy eating habits, such as eating regular meals together as a family and avoiding distractions like TV during meals. Education and Support—Educate children and their families about nutrition and the importance of physical activity. Support from healthcare providers, nutritionists, and community programs can be beneficial. Behavioral Changes—Address any psychological factors contributing to obesity. Counseling and support groups can help children develop healthier relationships with food and physical activity. Childhood Obesity Awareness Month reminds us of the critical need to address this public health issue. Through education, community efforts, and policy changes, we can create environments that support healthy growth and development for all children, ensuring a healthier future for the next generation.

Africa

Sep

Children's Awareness Month: September

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Under National Child Awareness Month (NCAM) umbrella, a wide variety of organizations set aside personal agendas to focus on the bigger picture of children in America today by addressing their growing challenges and needs. National Child Awareness Month impacts the national agenda by putting the issues of utmost importance to children at the front and center, bringing new volunteers, contributions, thinking, and energy to this important cause. NCAM brings the nation’s focus back to our children.

Africa

Sep

Chocolate Day, Intl. (1857): September 13

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International Chocolate Day marks the birthday of Milton S. Hershey (September 13, 1857), the founder of The Hershey Chocolate Company in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Chocolate beans have been used since around 1900 BC by the people of Central America, usually as a bitter drink, often alcoholic, or with red peppers. (It is quite a treat if you’ve never tried hot chocolate with red peppers using hot water instead of milk!) On his fourth voyage, Christopher Columbus brought this delicious bean to Europe. He noted the encounter in his ship’s log on August 15, 1502. A few decades later, Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés would bring the bean back in bulk (he was only 17 when Columbus found it). But in its Central American form, it wasn’t the sweet treat we see today. That required several inventions: John Baker’s process of grounding cocoa beans between millstones to create a powder in 1764 turned it into a spice. Conrad Van Houten developed a method for extracting the cacao liquor from the fat in the cocoa bean in 1828, which made chocolate affordable. And finally, the development of conching by Swiss chocolatier Rodolphe Lindt in 1879 made it into candy. The rest is sweet history. There are several different types of cocoa beans. Though native to the Americas, nearly two-thirds of cocoa production today occurs in Africa, and Ivory Coast is the largest producer.

Africa

Sep

Chocolate Milkshake Day: September 12

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Chocolate Milkshake Day celebrates cold beverage that combines milk, ice cream, and chocolate. 1885 was the year the word "milkshake" first appeared in print. Initially, milkshakes were an adult drink of whisky, eggs, and milk. With the popularity of ice cream coupled with the expansion of refrigeration and the invention of the electric blender in 1911, this whisky nog soon added ice cream as an ingredient. The 1920s popularized the drink, now without alcohol. Youth particularly enjoyed milkshakes prompting soda shops to open nationwide. The next incarnation of the milkshake would come in the form of malt, first introduced to the milkshake by Walgreens Pharmacy soda jockey Ivar Coulson in 1922. Malt flavors ice cream with a smokey flavor and is created from evaporated milk, malted barley, and wheat flour. With the invention of the automatic mixer in 1936, the classic drink morphed into fast food that millions could consume.

Africa

Sep

Cholesterol Education Month, Ntl.: September

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High cholesterol leads to several health problems that can result in long-term issues and even death. It is also relatively easy to control or bring down through lifestyle changes or drug therapies. National Cholesterol Education Month encourages Americans to get their cholesterol checked and adopt healthy habits to safeguard their health.

Africa

Sep

Cinnamon Raisin Bread Day: September 16

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Cinnamon Raisin Bread Day pays tribute to cinnamon raisin bread. Today, people make versions of cinnamon raisin bread or buy it from their favorite bakery.

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