All - Leep Calendar

PICTURES SPEAK LOUDEST: THE BIG DRAW The Big Draw celebrates drawing as a universal language of expression, creativity, and learning and serves as a fundraiser for multiple charities. The event aims to promote visual literacy and encourage people of all ages to engage in drawing, regardless of their skill level. It serves as a platform to highlight the importance of art in education, culture, and society. The Big Draw, organized by the charity The Big Draw (formerly known as The Campaign for Drawing), originated in the United Kingdom in 2000. It was conceived to foster a greater appreciation for the arts and encourage more people to experience the joy and benefits of drawing. Since its inception, The Big Draw has grown into a global phenomenon, with participants from over 25 countries participating each year. Participation in The Big Draw is not limited to a single format. There are several ways a person can get involved, each offering a unique experience: —Joining Events: Individuals can attend organized events, workshops, and drawing sessions hosted by schools, museums, galleries, and community groups usually listed on The Big Draw's official website. —Hosting an Event: People are encouraged to organize their drawing events, whether small gatherings with friends, community-wide activities, or more significant public events. Organizers can register their events on The Big Draw's website to become part of the official program. —Online Participation: With the rise of digital platforms, participants can also engage in The Big Draw virtually. Many events offer online drawing sessions, tutorials, and social media challenges that allow people to share their creations with a global audience. —Schools and Educational Institutions: Schools often participate by integrating drawing activities into their curriculum during The Big Draw, encouraging students to explore creative expression. The Big Draw typically takes place in October, a time when the spirit of creativity is in the air. However, events and activities may occur throughout the year, making it a flexible and accessible celebration of drawing that anyone can join whenever it suits them best.

Africa

Oct

Bilingual Child Month, Celebrating the: October

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How lucky you are if you are a child who speaks, reads, and writes in more than one language! Celebrate Bilingual Child Month honors these young cultural ambassadors who often have to function for their parents (in new immigrant families) and help the rest of us expand our world. Annually in October.

Africa

Oct

Black Dog Day, Ntl.: October 1

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Like black cats, black dogs are often not adopted due to their color and nothing else. There is no reason not to get a black dog, which is strictly aesthetics. Besides, if you live in a snowy or sandy location, they're much easier to spot than just about any other color. Enjoy National Black Dog Day.

Africa

Oct

Black History Month (UK): October

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Black History Month has been celebrated every October in the UK since the early 1980s. Black History Month Magazine and the National Black History Month portal blackhistorymonth.org.uk are the central focus for a nationwide celebration of Black History, Arts, and Culture throughout Britain. Black History Month is a celebration of the diversity and the richness the UK’s citizenship of color brings to society.

Africa

Oct

Black Speculative Fiction Month: October

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DIVERSITY IN IMAGINATION: BLACK SPECULATIVE FICTION MONTH Black Speculative Fiction Month is a celebration dedicated to highlighting the contributions of Black authors and creators in the genre of speculative fiction. This observance was initiated by Milton Davis, an author and publisher of Black speculative fiction, and Balogun Ojetade, a writer and filmmaker who sought to create a space for recognizing the unique perspectives that Black creators bring to this genre. Black Speculative Fiction Month aims to promote the work of Black writers and artists, encourage diversity in speculative fiction, and inspire a new generation of creators. WHAT IS SPECULATIVE FICTION? Speculative fiction is a broad literary genre encompassing any fiction with supernatural, fantastical, or futuristic elements. It includes subgenres such as science fiction, fantasy, horror, and alternate history, where the narrative often explores possibilities beyond the ordinary bounds of reality. Speculative fiction allows authors to imagine worlds and scenarios that challenge the status quo, explore social issues, and reflect on the human condition in ways that traditional literature might not. The history of speculative fiction can be traced back to ancient myths and folklore. Still, it gained formal recognition as a genre in the 19th century with the works of authors like Mary Shelley, whose novel "Frankenstein" is often considered the first science fiction novel. Over the years, the genre has expanded to include diverse voices and perspectives, offering readers a rich tapestry of imaginative worlds and thought-provoking themes. Black Speculative Fiction Month shines a spotlight on the often-overlooked contributions of Black authors to this genre. These creators have used speculative fiction to explore themes of identity, race, and social justice, offering unique narratives that challenge conventional genre boundaries. TOP FIVE BOOKS OF SPECULATIVE FICTION BY ANY WRITER The top five books in speculative fiction, known for their impact and acclaim, include: —"Kindred" by Octavia Butler - A seminal work that blends science fiction with historical fiction, exploring themes of slavery and racial identity through time travel. —"The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin - A groundbreaking science fiction novel examining gender and society on a distant planet. —"Neuromancer" by William Gibson is a defining work of cyberpunk; this novel explores the intersection of technology and humanity in a dystopian future. —Octavia Butler's "Parable of the Sower" is another influential work by Butler. This dystopian novel examines themes of survival, community, and faith in a future America. —Frank Herbert's "Dune" is a classic of science fiction. It is a sprawling epic that explores politics, religion, and ecology on a desert planet. Black Speculative Fiction Month encourages readers to explore the works of Black authors within the genre, supporting diversity in literature and expanding the narratives that speculative fiction can offer. The month serves as a platform for celebrating the imaginative power of Black creators and the rich contributions they make to the literary world.

Africa

Oct

Bleeding Disorders Month, Ntl. (AU): October

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One in a thousand people in the world has a bleeding disorder, and one in five thousand has hemophilia. Those numbers may sound small for some or massive for others, but this means that of the 8 billion people living on Earth, 8 million have a bleeding disorder, and most of them are not diagnosed and do not receive any treatment. Bleeding Disorders Month (formerly Hemophilia Awareness Week) in Australia raises awareness of what it means to have hemophilia and how to deal with it.

Africa

Oct

Blind Month, National Meet the: October

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Meet the Blind Month is a nationwide campaign to increase awareness of and support the National Federation of the Blind (NFB). During October, the members of our affiliates, chapters, and divisions spread the message that blind people can live the lives they want by conducting a variety of outreach activities. These events create opportunities for people to meet the blind of their communities and to recognize that those with sight impairment are vital contributing members of society.

Africa

Oct

Blindness Awareness Month: October

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SHINING A LIGHT ON ACCESSIBILITY: BLINDNESS AWARENESS MONTH Blindness Awareness Month is a nationwide initiative to raise awareness about blindness, vision impairment, and the importance of eye health. The event is championed by organizations such as the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) and the National Federation of the Blind (NFB), both of which advocate for the rights and well-being of individuals with visual impairments. The purpose of Blindness Awareness Month is to educate the public about the causes and types of blindness, promote eye health, and encourage support for those living with vision loss. Various factors, including genetic conditions, diseases, injuries, and age-related degeneration, can cause blindness. Common causes include cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration. There are different types of blindness, ranging from complete blindness, where there is no perception of light, to partial blindness, where individuals have limited vision or see only light and shadow. Low vision, another category, refers to significant visual impairment that cannot be corrected with standard glasses or contact lenses. PARTICIPATING Blindness Awareness Month provides a platform for individuals and communities to engage in activities that support those affected by vision loss and to promote preventative measures. People can participate in several ways: —Educational Campaigns Schools, workplaces, and community organizations can host events that educate the public about eye health, the importance of regular eye exams, and the challenges those with visual impairments face. —Fundraising Events Many organizations host walks, runs, and other fundraising events to support research, accessibility programs, and services for the visually impaired. Participating in or donating to these events can help make a difference. —Volunteering Individuals can volunteer with local or national organizations that support the blind and visually impaired, offering assistance in various capacities, from reading to those with vision loss to helping with transportation and daily tasks. —Advocacy Advocating for better accessibility and inclusion for the blind is another crucial way to participate. Activities include pushing for more accessible public spaces, better-designed websites and apps, and improved employment opportunities for those with visual impairments. Blindness Awareness Month is about raising awareness and fostering a more inclusive society where individuals with visual impairments can live independently and with dignity. Through education, support, and advocacy, this month-long observance seeks to enhance understanding and provide resources for those affected by vision loss.

Africa

Oct

Book Month, Ntl.: October

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National Book Month is recognized annually throughout the country. It began with the National Book Foundation (NBF). However, the NBF no longer sponsors the event, leaving it without an official sponsor.

Africa

Oct

Borderline Personality Disorder Week (AU): October 1-7

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Borderline Personality Disorder Week Awareness Week in Australia is an opportunity to learn about this mental illness, how to best interact with persons suffering, and how to manage it. Borderline personality disorder (BPD), marked by the inability to manage emotions, is a serious mental illness affecting nearly 6% of the population, millions worldwide. Symptoms generally occur in adolescence or early adulthood and can be present in familial relationships, business relationships, or both. Signs of BPD include impulsiveness, reckless behavior, and an inability to maintain healthy relationships. BPD often compounds other issues, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and eating disorders.

Africa

Oct

Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Ntl.: October

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As declared by Presidential Proclamation, October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Breast cancer is diagnosed in more than 190,000 people in the US annually; 40,000 will die from it. Men also get breast cancer, which is often fatal due to the lack of personal screening and other tools available to women to help catch the disease early and thus treat it. National Breast Cancer Awareness Month exists to encourage regular check-ups, teach self-examination and help both men and women catch breast cancer early.

Africa

Oct

Bullying Month, Stop, Ntl.: October

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Promoted by Hey U.G.L.Y. (Unique, Gifted, Lovable, You), the National Stop Bullying Month works against bullying in all its shapes and forms. Whether it's school bullying, street bullying, state-sponsored or cyberbullying, being bullied is always a traumatic experience for the bullied and the people around them. Bullying is often problematic for bullies as it's an extremely unhealthy way of expressing or suppressing emotions. Bullies can be people, animals, or nation-states. Regardless of form, bullies are seeking to regain a sense of control. Rather than "pick on someone their own size" who could fight back or make things difficult, bullies seek to exploit vulnerabilities and use everything they can to look superior to others. This month is about saying "no!" to bullying and educating people on the resources available to help the bullied and bullies change their life.

Africa

Oct

Bullying Prevention Month, Ntl.: October

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National Bullying Prevention Month is supported by multiple organizations and the United States Government. This month raises awareness and encourages victims and bystanders to get involved, take a stand and work to end social blindness toward bullying. National Bullying Prevention Month includes local events throughout the country. Check with local bullying advocacy groups for events in your area.

Africa

Oct

Caffeine Addiction Recovery Month: October

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STAYING ENERGIZED NATURALLY: CAFFEINE ADDICTION RECOVERY MONTH October marks Caffeine Addiction Recovery Month, an initiative aimed at raising awareness about the potential risks of caffeine dependence and encouraging individuals to evaluate their caffeine consumption habits. This month-long observance seeks to educate the public on the effects of caffeine, promote healthier alternatives, and provide resources for those looking to reduce or eliminate their caffeine intake. Caffeine Addicts Anonymous created it. However, the group no longer exists, and the event is no longer sponsored. It is one of two caffeine-related months each year. The first is in March. The word "caffeine" is derived from the German word "Kaffein," coined in the early 19th century. "Kaffein" refers to the compound found in coffee (German: "Kaffee") that produces stimulating effects. The term was later adapted into English as "caffeine," referring broadly to the stimulant in coffee, tea, and other beverages. The name reflects the connection between the compound and its most common natural source, coffee. THE WORLD'S MOST POPULAR STIMULANT Caffeine is a drug because it is a central nervous system stimulant that can alter brain function, leading to increased alertness and temporary boosts in energy. As a psychoactive substance, caffeine affects neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly adenosine, which regulates sleep. Regular consumption of caffeine can lead to physical dependence, and sudden withdrawal can cause symptoms such as headaches, irritability, and fatigue. Some people have issues with caffeine while others do not, and the reason lies in genetic differences and individual tolerance levels. Factors such as metabolism, sensitivity to stimulants, and habitual consumption patterns all impact how a person responds to caffeine. For some, even small amounts can lead to anxiety, insomnia, or digestive issues, while others may consume larger quantities with minimal adverse effects. MOST POPULAR SOURCES OF CAFFEINE Caffeine is found in a variety of foods and drinks, with the top five sources being: —Coffee The most well-known source is coffee, which contains varying levels of caffeine depending on the type and preparation method. —Tea Black, green, and white teas all contain caffeine, though typically in lower amounts than coffee. —Energy Drinks These beverages are often high in caffeine and are designed to provide a quick energy boost. —Soda Many carbonated soft drinks, particularly colas, contain added caffeine. —Chocolate Both dark and milk chocolate contain small amounts of caffeine derived from cocoa beans. Caffeine Addiction Recovery Month encourages people to be mindful of their caffeine intake and consider the potential long-term effects of overconsumption. For those struggling with dependence, the month provides an opportunity to seek support and make healthier lifestyle choices. By raising awareness, the initiative hopes to promote a balanced approach to caffeine use and highlight the importance of moderation.

Africa

Oct

Car Care Month, Ntl. Fall: October

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National Car Care Month occurs twice a year in April and October. April's Car Care Month focuses on preparing your vehicle for the summer driving months, and October is about preparing your car for winter driving. As winter approaches, drivers must ensure their cars are ready for the cold, wet, snow, and icy conditions. Proactive maintenance can prevent unwanted breakdowns and keep drivers and passengers safe. Below is a checklist for pre-winter car maintenance: Prepare Your Car for Winter: A Maintenance Checklist Battery Check: Cold weather can be brutal on car batteries. Ensure the battery is fully charged and the connections are clean, tight, and corrosion-free. Tire Inspection: Check for adequate tread and the valve used to inflate the tire is tight and free of corrosion. Consider switching to winter tires in areas with snowy and icy conditions. Also, maintain proper tire pressure, as it tends to drop in colder temperatures. If your steering wheel shakes a little in your hands, you probably have tire problems. Fluid Levels: Antifreeze: Ensure your car's antifreeze mixture is at the correct level and concentration. Windshield Washer Fluid: Use a winter-grade fluid that won't freeze in cold temperatures. Oil: Some vehicles may benefit from winter-grade oil during colder months. Brake System: Inspect all components to ensure they are in good working order, including checking brake pads, rotors, and fluids. Heating and Cooling System: Ensure the car's heater and defroster work efficiently. Also, check the radiator and hoses for cracks or leaks. Lights and Wipers: Visibility is crucial in winter. Check all lights, including hazards, to make sure they're functional. Apply a windshield slickening agent like RainX to improve visibility on your headlights and windshields. Replace old windshield wipers with winter-specific blades and ensure the rear defrost functions correctly. Emergency Kit: Equip your vehicle with an emergency kit that includes a snow shovel, ice scraper, cat litter, flashlight, blankets, non-perishable food, water, and first-aid supplies. A portable tire inflator and handheld battery jumper (far better than jumper cables) are essential. Exhaust System: Check for leaks or other issues, as problems can be dangerous during winter when windows remain closed. Fuel: Keep your gas tank at least half full to prevent fuel lines from freezing. Belts and Hoses: Cold temperatures can weaken belts and hoses. Inspect them for signs of wear, cracks, or fraying. Taking these preventative steps before the winter chill sets in can ensure a safer and more reliable ride. Experts recommend having a trusted mechanic conduct a thorough winter inspection to spot any potential issues before they become significant problems.

Africa