All - Leep Calendar

Scottish Food & Drink Fortnight (a fortnight = two weeks) is hosted by Scotland Food and Drink and promoted by the Scottish Government. This nationwide event features locally grown Scottish products and those who grow, make, cook, and sell them. Here are five dishes that are native to Scotland: Haggis is a savory pudding containing sheep's pluck (heart, liver, and lungs), minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices, and salt, traditionally encased in the animal's stomach and boiled before being uncased and served. Scotch Pie is a double-crusted hot water pastry pie filled with mutton or other meat that is particularly popular at football matches. Cullen Skink, named after the town of Cullen in Moray, on the northeast coast of Scotland, is a thick and creamy soup made of smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions. Cranachan is a layered dessert made with whipped cream, whisky, honey, fresh raspberries, and toasted oatmeal. Stovies is a potato dish with onions and meat, usually roast or corned beef. It is a favorite use for leftovers. Traditional Scottish cuisine centers around locally available ingredients and is hearty and filling.

Africa

Sep

Spinach Festival, Lenexa (US-KS): September 6 (est)

06:20 AM | -

The Winter Garden Chamber of Commerce created the Lenexa Spinach Festival in 1936. Considered the world capital for spinach, Lenexa's original festival ran until the United States entered WWII. In 1982 it was revived and has been held annually since. PLEASE NOTE: Treat all televised and venue-specific events (sporting, concerts, trade shows, etc.) as estimated. Several factors can cause an event to move dates at the last minute, including weather, strikes, natural disasters, political upheaval, conflicting programming, pandemics, and current events. Because of this, always verify the event with the promotor before committing resources. LEEP often estimates dates based on the previous year's schedules, as the final dates are unknown until a few months, weeks, or days before the event. If the date is known to be estimated, you will see an (est) following the date in the title.

Africa

Sep

Unification Day (BG)(1885): September 6

06:20 AM | -

Unification Day in Bulgaria marks the anniversary of September 6, 1885, when the north and south regions came together under one flag. Unification Day is a national holiday.

Africa

Oct

Vaquita Day, Intl. Save the: October 25

06:20 AM | -

The vaquita is the world's most endangered marine mammal. This exquisite porpoise inhabits the Gulf of California and averages 4-5 feet in length. Currently, fewer than 10 Vaquitas exist in the wild, and their numbers decline by 50% yearly.

Discovered in 1958, vaquitas are nearly extinct due to illegal fishing. As mammals, once caught in nets, they drown. International Save the Vaquita Day raises awareness about this animal and illegal fishing practices before it disappears forever. In addition to this day, the month of March is set aside to protect this critically endangered species.

3D Model: https://sketchfab.com/3d-models/female-vaquita-phocoena-sinus-daecedef75e040bab2125d220b485e58

Africa

Sep

Vulture Awareness Day, Intl: September 6

06:20 AM | -

The first Saturday of September is Vulture Awareness Day. This event highlights the importance of vultures for the environment and raises awareness of the declining population of vultures. Organized by the Birds of Prey Programme and the Hawk Conservancy Trust, this event became international after 2009. People interested in participating in this event should contact any participating organization since each has its activities.

Africa

Sep

William McKinley Assassination (1901): September 6

06:20 AM | -

The 25th President of the United States, William McKinley, was just six months into his second term as President of the United States when he was assassinated on September 6, 1901, by Leon Czolgosz, an American citizen of Polish decent. The President died eight days later. McKinley was neither the first nor last American President to be assassinated in office. Abraham Lincoln was the first, killed in 1865, and James A. Garfield was the second in 1881, having been in office for four months. John F Kennedy was the last in 1963. McKinley was the last President to have served in the American Civil War (1860-1865). After his assassination, the US Congress mandated the Secret Service be used to protect the President of the United States from all threats, foreign and domestic. Its original purpose was to investigate counterfeiting after the Civil War, and it evolved into the US's first intelligence and counter-intelligence agency. Later it was split into several law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, DEA, ATF, CIA, and IRS-CI. The Secret Service's mission continues to include protecting the financial and trade infrastructure of the United States as well as providing protection for its leaders.

Africa

Sep

Zhong Yuan Festival (CN/TW): September 6

06:20 AM | -

The Zhong Yuan (Ghosts) Festival in China is celebrated every year on the 15th day of the 7th lunar month in the Chinese calendar. The Zhong Yuan (also known as Zhongyuan Festival by Taoists or Yu Lan Pen Festival by Buddhists) is the day the Chinese respect their ancestors and all who have passed via sacrifices. It is believed that ghosts emerge on the 15th day of the 7th lunar month and visit the living. The Chinese have other festivals throughout the year that honor the dead, and Zhong Yuan is unique as it honors all persons who have passed, not just family.

Africa

Sep

Acorn Squash Day: September 7

06:20 AM | -

Acorn Squash Day (aka pepper squash) celebrates this autumn dinner staple. Look for recipes using acorn squash to celebrate and add the dish to your table.

Africa

Sep

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

06:20 AM | -

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

06:20 AM | -

Africa

Sep

Clean Air for Blue Skies, Intl. Day of: September 7

06:20 AM | -

The International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies emphasizes the collective responsibility and action required to address air pollution. This pollution, a significant environmental risk to human health, causes about a third of deaths from stroke, chronic respiratory disease, and lung cancer, and a quarter from heart attacks. Additionally, short-lived climate pollutants (SLCPs) related to health effects and near-term global warming are a key concern. Air pollution causes an estimated 6.5 million premature deaths globally, with the majority occurring in developing countries where women, children, and the elderly are disproportionately affected due to their exposure to ambient and indoor air pollution. Air pollution also poses long-term impacts due to its transport over long distances; without aggressive intervention, premature deaths from ambient air pollution are projected to increase by over 50% by 2050. Air pollution also has a significant economic impact, affecting productivity, healthcare costs, and tourism. Investing in air pollution control, therefore, offers considerable economic benefits. Some air pollutants, like black carbon, methane, and ground-level ozone, impact food security and contribute to a significant number of air pollution-related deaths, so reducing them offers co-benefits for the climate. The United Nations General Assembly has designated 7 September as the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, in response to the growing international interest in clean air. The move aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals' emphasis on promoting sustainable development policies supporting healthy air quality and recognizes that improving air quality can also enhance climate change mitigation.

Africa

Sep

Daylight Savings (CL), Begins: September 7

06:20 AM | -

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS IN CHILE Daylight Savings Time in Chile commences on the second Sunday in September (spring forward) and ends on the first Sunday of April (fall back). Today, move the clock one hour ahead at 2 AM in September or one hour back in April at 2 AM on Sunday. The saying “spring forward, fall back” is an excellent way to remember, and it works in the northern and southern hemispheres as the seasons reverse. On this day, Chileans move the clock one hour ahead at 2 AM in September or one hour back in April at 2 AM on Sunday. American Benjamin Franklin was the first to propose daylight savings time (DST) in 1784, and modern DST commenced in 1895. Throughout history, several variations of daylight savings ranged from 30 minutes to two hours. Only some nations observe DST, which can make setting appointments very challenging. The primary purpose of DST is to make better use of daylight hours for farming, early morning activities (such as children walking to school in daylight rather than darkness), and saving energy. The closer one lives to the north and south poles, the longer the period of daylight in the summer months. _______________________ DAYLIGHT SAVINGS ABOVE THE EQUATOR United Kingdom, Albania, Adorra, Austria, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Greenland, Guernsey, Holy See, Hungary, Ireland, Isle of Man, Italy, Jersey, Kosovo, Latvia, Lebanon, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, and Western Sahara—Last Sunday of March (spring forward) and the last Sunday of October (fall back). United States, Bahamas, Canada, Cuba, Saint Pierre & Miquelon—Second Sunday of March; first Sunday of November Iran—Begins March 21/22; Ends September 20/21 Israel & Palestine—Friday before the last Sunday, March; last Sunday, October Jordan, Syria— Last Friday, March; last Friday, October Mexico—First Sunday, April; last Sunday, October _______________________ DAYLIGHT SAVINGS BELOW THE EQUATOR Australia—First Sunday of October (spring forward ); first Sunday in April (fall back). Brazil—Third Sunday in October; third Sunday in February. Chile—First or Second Sunday in September; first Sunday in April Fiji & Tonga—First Sunday of November; third Sunday of January. Namibia—First Sunday of September; first Sunday of April. New Zealand—Last Sunday of September; first Sunday of April. Paraguay—First Sunday of October; fourth Sunday of March. Samoa—Last Sunday of September; first Sunday of April.

Africa

Sep

Daylight Savings (NA), Begins: September 7

06:20 AM | -

Daylight Savings in Namibia commences on the 1st Sunday of September (Spring Forward) and ends on the 1st Sunday of April (Fall Back). On this day, we move the clock one hour ahead at 2 AM in September or one hour back in April at 2 AM on Sunday. The saying, “spring forward, fall back,” is an excellent way to remember. The memory tool works in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. American Benjamin Franklin was the first to propose daylight savings time (DST) in 1784. Modern DST began in 1895. Throughout history, several variations were adopted, ranging from 30 minutes to two hours. Not everyone observes DST, which can make setting appointments very challenging. The primary purpose of DST is to make better use of daylight hours for farming, early morning activities (such as children walking to school in the light instead of dark), and saving energy. The closer one lives to the North and South Pole, the longer the period of daylight in the summer months. _______________________ Daylight Savings Above the Equator: United Kingdom, Albania, Adorra, Austria, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Greenland, Guernsey, Holy See, Hungary, Ireland, Isle of Man, Italy, Jersey, Kosovo, Latvia, Lebanon, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Morocco, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, and Western Sahara: Last Sunday of March: Last Sunday, October United States, Bahamas, Canada, Cuba, Saint Pierre & Miquelon: 2nd Sunday, March; 1st Sunday of November Iran: Begins March 21/22; Ends September 20/21 Israel & Palestine: Friday before last Sunday, March; Last Sunday, October Jordan, Syria: Last Friday, March; Last Friday, October Mexico: 1st Sunday, April; Last Sunday, October _______________________ DAYLIGHT SAVINGS BELOW THE EQUATOR Australia—First Sunday of October (spring forward ); first Sunday in April (fall back). Brazil—Third Sunday in October; third Sunday in February. Chile—First or Second Sunday in September; first Sunday in April Fiji & Tonga—First Sunday of November; third Sunday of January. Namibia—First Sunday of September; first Sunday of April. New Zealand—Last Sunday of September; first Sunday of April. Paraguay—First Sunday of October; fourth Sunday of March. Samoa—Last Sunday of September; first Sunday of April.

Africa

Sep

Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week, Ntl.: September 7-13

06:20 AM | -

National Direct Support Professionals Recognition Week recognizes the people who work directly with the physically and mentally disabled. Throughout the week, staff honor these outstanding professionals through incentives, parties, and lunches.

Africa

Sep

Duchenne Awareness Day, Intl: September 7

06:20 AM | -

EMPATHY FOR A DESTRUCTIVE DISEASE: WORLD DUCHENNE'S AWARENESS DAY World Duchenne Awareness Day, observed annually on September 7, aims to raise global awareness about Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), a severe and progressive muscle-wasting disease. The day seeks to educate the public, support affected individuals and their families, and advocate for research and treatment advancements. By highlighting the challenges faced by those with Duchenne, the day promotes understanding, solidarity, and action towards finding a cure. Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic disorder characterized by progressive muscle degeneration and weakness. It results from mutations in the DMD gene, which encodes dystrophin, a protein essential for muscle function. The gene's absence or deficiency of dystrophin leads to the deterioration of muscle fibers over time. DMD primarily affects boys, with symptoms typically appearing in early childhood. DUCHENNE'S IMPACT ON A PERSON'S LIFE Unlike Multiple Sclerosis (MS), which is an autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system, Duchenne is a genetic disorder that primarily impacts skeletal and cardiac muscles. The following illustrates several challenges. Duchenne muscular dystrophy significantly impacts physical health. Early symptoms include difficulty walking, frequent falls, and trouble climbing stairs. As the disease progresses, muscle weakness spreads, leading to the loss of the ability to walk, respiratory difficulties, and heart complications. Most individuals with Duchenne require a wheelchair by their early teens and may face life-threatening cardiac and respiratory issues by their twenties. The progressive nature of Duchenne also affects social and emotional well-being. Individuals with Duchenne and their families often experience significant emotional stress due to the physical limitations and the relentless progression of the disease. Social isolation, anxiety, and depression are common, making psychological support and community inclusion critical components of care. THE EVENT'S HISTORY World Duchenne Awareness Day began on September 7, 2014, upon initiation by the World Duchenne Organization (formerly the United Parent Projects Muscular Dystrophy). The date symbolizes Duchenne's seven most common symptoms, raising awareness about these early indicators. SEVEN COMMON INDICATORS OF DUCHENNE The seven most common symptoms of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) typically manifest in early childhood and progressively worsen over time. These symptoms are indicators that parents and healthcare providers often look for to diagnose the condition: Delayed Motor Milestones Children with Duchenne often experience delays in reaching developmental milestones such as sitting, standing, and walking. They may start walking later than typical children. Difficulty Running and Jumping As muscle weakness progresses, children may struggle with activities that require running, jumping, or climbing stairs. They may appear clumsy and frequently fall. Frequent Falls Due to muscle weakness, children with Duchenne are prone to frequent falls. They may need help maintaining balance and coordination. Gower's Sign Gower's Sign is a distinctive way of rising from the floor, where the child uses their hands to "walk" up their own body for support due to weakness in the hip and thigh muscles. Calf Muscle Enlargement (Pseudohypertrophy) The calf muscles may appear unusually large due to muscle tissue being replaced by fat and connective tissue—one of the early noticeable signs. Waddling Gait Children with Duchenne often develop a waddling gait due to weakness in the hip muscles. Their walk may appear swaying and unsteady. Difficulty Climbing Stairs Climbing stairs becomes increasingly difficult due to progressive muscle weakness, particularly in the legs and pelvic muscles. Children may need to use handrails for support or may avoid stairs altogether. These symptoms are often accompanied by other signs, such as fatigue and difficulty raising arms, with respiratory and cardiac complications as the disease progresses. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for managing Duchenne muscular dystrophy and improving the quality of life for affected individuals. HOW TO PARTICIPATE The day has since grown into a global movement, with events and campaigns held in numerous countries to spotlight the urgent need for research, better treatments, and support for those affected. Here's how to participate. Awareness Campaigns On World Duchenne Awareness Day, various organizations, advocacy groups, and communities participate in awareness campaigns. These efforts include educational seminars, social media campaigns, and public service announcements to inform the public about Duchenne muscular dystrophy, its symptoms, and the importance of early diagnosis. Fundraising Events Fundraising events, such as charity runs, walks, and auctions, are organized to support research initiatives and provide resources for affected families. These events often bring together patients, families, healthcare providers, and supporters to foster a sense of community and shared purpose. Educational Programs Schools, universities, and medical institutions conduct educational programs and workshops to discuss the latest advancements in Duchenne research, treatment options, and patient care. These programs aim to increase understanding among healthcare professionals and the general public, promoting better support and care for those with Duchenne. Community Engagement Community centers and local organizations host gatherings and activities to celebrate the resilience of individuals with Duchenne and their families. These events provide opportunities for social interaction, support, and sharing personal stories, helping build a supportive and informed community. Online Participation Social media platforms are vital in spreading awareness and connecting people worldwide. Hashtags like #WorldDuchenneDay and #DuchenneAwareness designated stories, photos, and educational content, reaching a broad audience and fostering global solidarity. World Duchenne Awareness Day is a powerful platform for raising awareness, driving research, and fostering a global support community for those affected by Duchenne muscular dystrophy. By spotlighting the challenges and needs of individuals with Duchenne, the day contributes to increased understanding, improved care, and the ongoing quest for a cure.

Africa