All - Leep Calendar

Macaroons first appeared in Italy during the ninth century AD. They are miniature bite-sized cakes made with nut paste, usually almonds, sweeteners, and spices. The first recipe for macaroons appeared in 1725. Macaroon Day celebrates the dessert.

Africa

May

Management Accounting Day, Intl.: May 6

06:20 AM | -

My degree is in business and marketing. However, I disliked accounting so much that I spent years figuring out how to get a business degree without taking it. Who calls a debt, credit, and a credit a debit? That made no sense to me. Calculus makes sense. Geometry makes sense. Accounting? No way. It is a foreign language. I finally had to buckle down and take three semesters of accounting and one of finance to achieve my desired degree, a Bachelor of Science in Business and Marketing. And I did fair in the courses, getting As and Bs. But, to this day, I thank God for people that love accounting, the checks and balances, the neat little columns that need to add up. We should all do what we enjoy, no? Today is about showing appreciation for the men and women who tackle the balance sheets, produce financial statements, and help ensure we stay black rather than red. Today we honor Management Accounting Professionals throughout the world. Thank you! Business (and my sanity) wouldn’t survive without you! This event began in 2012.

Africa

May

Maritime Day, Ntl. (1819): May 22

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National Maritime Day honors the mariners of the United States, the men, and women that serve on American ships and tugs and in its ports and shipyards, during peace or at war. The day marks the anniversary of the embarkment of the first steamship to cross the Atlantic, the SS Savannah, on May 22, 1819.

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May

Markor, Intl. Day of: May 24

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THE ORIGINAL G.O.A.T, GOAT: INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE MARKHOR The International Day of the Markhor, observed annually on May 24, is dedicated to raising awareness about the markhor, a majestic wild goat species, and its conservation. The day highlights the importance of protecting this species and its habitat, promoting sustainable conservation practices, and engaging local communities in preservation efforts. Objectives of the event include: Raise Awareness Educate the public about the markhor, its ecological significance, and the threats it faces. Promote Conservation Support efforts to conserve the markhor and its habitat through sustainable practices. Engage Communities Involve local communities in conservation efforts and promote eco-friendly practices. Highlight Success Stories Share successful conservation initiatives to inspire further action and support. WHAT IS A MARKHOR? The markhor (Capra falconeri) is a large wild goat known for its impressive twisted horns, which can grow up to 1.5 meters long. It is Pakistan's national animal, and its striking appearance and agility are remarkable. Markhors inhabit mountainous regions, primarily found in the following areas: Pakistan: Northern and western mountain ranges. Afghanistan: Eastern mountainous areas. India: Northern regions. Tajikistan: Mountainous terrain. The markhor is classified as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The primary threats to its survival include habitat loss, hunting, and competition with domestic livestock. Conservation efforts have shown positive results, increasing some populations, but continued vigilance is necessary. HISTORY OF THE EVENT International Day of the Markhor was established by conservation organizations and wildlife enthusiasts to draw global attention to the plight of the markhor. The date, October 12, was chosen to coincide with the start of the markhor breeding season, emphasizing the importance of protecting the species during this critical period. The event gained official recognition from various wildlife conservation groups and governments in regions where the markhor lives. It serves as an annual reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to protect this iconic species. HOW TO PARTICIPATE People worldwide, especially in regions where the markhor lives, participate in various activities to support the conservation of this species. Common activities include: Educational Programs Schools, universities, and wildlife organizations conduct seminars and workshops to educate the public about the markhor and its ecological importance. Conservation Campaigns Awareness campaigns through social media, posters, and public speeches highlight the threats facing the markhor and the need for conservation. Community Involvement Local communities plant trees, restore habitat, and engage in eco-friendly practices to support markhor conservation. Fundraising Events Fundraising drives and charity events support conservation projects and initiatives to protect the markhor. Wildlife Tours Eco-tourism and guided wildlife tours in regions where markhors promote sustainable tourism and raise funds for conservation efforts. The International Day of the Markhor plays a significant role in bringing global attention to the conservation needs of this unique species. By promoting awareness and engaging communities, the event helps to ensure that the markhor and its habitat flourish for future generations. The day also highlights the importance of biodiversity and the need for sustainable conservation practices worldwide.

Africa

May

Martin Z Mollusk Day (US-NJ): May 2 (est)

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Martin Z. Mollusk Day is an actual event based on a fictional character named Martin Z. Mollusk, a hermit crab who serves as the mascot for Ocean City, New Jersey. The character was created by Mark Soifer, the former public relations director of Ocean City, as a part of the city's efforts to promote tourism in a fun and whimsical way. Martin Z. Mollusk Day features the annual "Creep" on the first Friday of May's first full weekend, where a hermit crab sits on the beach or sometimes a small carpet. According to local lore, summer will come a week early to the shore town if it sees its shadow. Martin Z. Mollusk has become a beloved figure in Ocean City, and many visitors and residents look forward to his appearances and antics throughout the year.

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May

Maternal Mental Health Week: May 1-7

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Maternal mental health disorders occur during pregnancy and up to one year postpartum. They can be mild or severe, including deep depression and anxiety, a less common but severe postpartum psychosis, which affects less than 0.5 percent of women and is always considered a medical emergency. Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week intends to expand awareness of and the conversation about these treatable complications surrounding pregnancy. Annually the first seven days of May.

Africa

May

May Day: May 1

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May Day has been celebrated since Roman times and began as a pagan holiday to celebrate spring and fertility. In Germany, it is known as Walpurgis Night. Saint Walburga brought Christianity to the German people. Since the 1880s, May Day has also been associated with labor and employment, with the Catholic Church designating May 1 as the Feast of St. Joseph, the patron saint of workers. May Day is celebrated all over the world as either a worker's holiday, pagan holiday, or saint's feast. The Maypole dance is the iconic expression of this holiday and dates back to the seventeenth century, originating in Germany. For most people, May Day is simply the herald of the warm weather months to come. The following is an article from 1937 about May Day illustrates the enthusiasm surrounding this day: _____________ Skyrack Express Friday, May 21, 1937 Barwick Village Maypole re-erected Miss Yvonne Gascoigne crowns The Queen The triennial festival to celebrate the re-erecting of "Ye Olde Village Maypole" at Barwick took place on Whit-Tuesday, with all the usual excitement and glamour. A steady influx of visitors began early in the morning, and by the early afternoon, all the roads were thronged with people all eager to watch the ancient, time-honored ceremony of raising the pole. The carnival, which precedes the rearing of the Maypole, is also a survival of an ancient custom, and again the old traditions were observed to the minutest detail. To the delight of the crowd, the sun was on its best behavior, giving warmth and added charm to the procession, which was headed by the Garforth Brass Band. The 1937 Maypole Queen, Betty Binns, and her attendants. (Photograph kindly supplied by Brian Foxcroft, Betty's nephew.) The May Queen (Miss Betty Binns), a schoolgirl of 13, and her retinue followed in a profusely-decorated wagon, and then came the maypole-plaiters and the country dancers, also in beautifully decorated wagons. Three more decorated wagons competed for a prize and helped to make the procession a memorable one. The fourth wagon presented a Dutch tableau, complete with a windmill and a Dutch family, playing midst a blaze of tulips. A striking picture was presented by a fifth wagon, on which was a tableau representing the Empire; and the last was a cheerful little cart trimmed in Coronation colors. There was one entrant in the fancy dress parade—a junior who created much mirth as a small teddy bear. The procession wended its course along Main Street and down Chapel Lane to the Hall Tower Field. The May Queen and her courtiers, on the platform erected for the crowning ceremony, presented a charming ensemble. The Queen was crowned by Miss Yvonne Gascoigne, with whom were Mrs. Gascoigne and Lady Ashdown. The Rector introduced the visitors, and also on the platform were Mrs. Lovell Clark and Mrs. Keed. Miss Gascoigne also presented the May Queen with a bouquet of carnations, and herself received a bouquet of iris from Rita Senior on behalf of the teachers and scholars. The train-bearers to the Queen were Margaret Birch and Frank Poulter, attired in white. Michael Ashworth was the crown-bearer, and Walter Barrett and Derick Burke were the equerries. The eighteen Maids of Honor looked very dainty in white, all having been chosen from the Primary Class. The plaiters skipped daintily around the miniature Maypole, weaving spiders' webs and barbers' poles, etc., in various colors. An attractive display was given by the country dancers from the Senior Class, who wore old-country costumes; the girls' dresses of floral cotton with bonnets to match and the boy's in smocks. The Garforth Brass Band played for the ceremony. Other diversions included a Punch and Judy show and an excellent concert party from Leeds. The judges of the decorated wagons placed Mr. Verity first, Mr. Tom Braithwaite 2nd, and Mrs. Bedford 3rd. The judges were Mr. Ward and Mr. Binns of Scholes. The prize for the best pair of plow horses was divided between Mr. John Thorp of Barwick and Mr. Helm of Aberford. All the entrants for swarming the greasy pole to retrieve a ham were unsuccessful. The pets' competition was won by a small terrier, the property of Miss Brenda Cooper, and Miss Jean Kirk got the second prize for a Persian cat and kitten; the third prize went to Miss Elam of Wyke Beck Farm, Halton, with a small Berkshire pig of much fame, which accompanies her on shopping expeditions. Towards evening the band led the villagers and visitors to fetch the giant pole (all beautifully renovated and bearing a painted flag in honor of Coronation year) from the Hall Tower Field, where it had gone through a course of "beauty treatment" under the expert hands of Mr. Dennis Armitage. On the return with the pole, Cr. Hemingway headed the band, which played very appropriate music. The beautiful garlands, the newly gilded fox, and the red, white, and blue stripes of the pole were all most effective. Five ropes had been secured to the pole for the purpose of guiding and assisting the rearing, and ladders of various sizes were used, all padded to avoid scratching the paint. After very careful work, the Pole was raised to perpendicular height, to the cheers of the huge crowd, and to the strains of "Three Cheers for the Red, White, and Blue." All that remained was for someone to scale the pole to release the ropes. This Mr. Frank Tennant did with remarkable agility. Not only did he release the ropes, but he swarmed to the top and turned the fox around. This feat was greeted with a storm of applause. Great credit for the excellent performance of the schoolchildren is due to Mr. G. Ashworth and Misses Grimshaw, and Shillito. The people responsible for the garlands were members of the Mothers' Union, Mrs. Cooper, and family, Misses Nora and Marian Lovett, and the schoolchildren. Mrs. Wood of Potterton Hall provided the children with red, white, and blue ribbons with which to decorate the garlands. The organizing committee was Messrs. Fred Robshaw, Walter Lovett, and Ernest Harrison.

Africa

May

May One Day: May 1

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May One Day is about defining a dream, taking steps to realize that dream, and making it a reality. Annually on May 1 since 2016.

Africa

May

Mayday for Mutts, Ntl: May 4

06:20 AM | -

Mutts are dogs that are of mixed breed and not purebred. These adorable animals account for over 75% of all dogs in the United States found in shelters. In 2000, as a way to draw attention to the issue, author Karen Derrico (Unforgettable Mutts: Pure of Heart Not of Breed) founded the national Mayday For Mutts on the first Sunday in May each year, which is also the commencement of the American Humane Association's "Be Kind to Animals Week."

Africa

May

ME/CFS Awareness Month (US-CA): May

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ME/CFS Awareness Month urges state agencies, medical service providers, health care agencies, research facilities, medical schools, and the NIH, CDC, and the FDA to work toward increasing clinical care, supportive care, and medical education and research funding to a level commensurate with similarly prevalent diseases, and encourages schools, colleges and media organizations to inform the public about ME/CFS.

Africa

May

Meat Free May (UK): May

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Meat Free May in the United Kingdom highlights the effects of consuming meat on the body and the planet. One cause of greenhouse gas emissions is livestock contributing to deforestation and climate change. The supply of fish in the oceans is also diminishing. Vegan and Vegetarian groups believe that if people eliminated meat or shifted to a lower-meat diet, there would be fewer deaths and reduced environmental damage.

Africa

May

Medication Dependence Prevention Month (AU): May

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Medication Dependence Prevention Month raises awareness about preventing medication harm and finding community support. Currently, in Australia, more people are dying from prescription pain and sedative medications than from traffic accidents. Overuse or using the medicine for too long can lead to medication tolerance, dependence, and addiction, and it can also worsen the pain and increase insomnia. Medication Dependence Prevention Month seeks to prevent this health crisis by encouraging people with long-term pain or insomnia to plan how and when to stop using these medications with their health professionals safely.

Africa

May

Meditation Month, Ntl.: May

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National Meditation Month is sponsored by Touching Earth, a Chicago-based yoga and meditation company, to raise awareness of the importance of meditation in mental and physical health and its benefits. People are encouraged to take time out, sit somewhere quiet, and focus and listen. Benefits of meditation when combined with yoga include: Alleviating suffering Relieving stress Lowering blood pressure Lowering heart rate Reducing the production of harmful stress hormones, including cortisol Improving mental clarity and memory Greater focus Minimizing the perception of chronic pain Strengthening neuronal connections in the brain and enhancing an overall sense of well-being.

Africa

May

Mediterranean Diet Month, Intl.: May

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Created in 2009 and sponsored by non-profit Oldways, International Mediterranean Diet Month focuses on healthy eating through whole-natural foods low in sodium and containing good fats. Precisely the kind of food generations of people have lived on. Available resources include HealthyDiningFinder.com, a list of casual-dining chain restaurants offering dishes that adhere to Med Diet standards based on healthy fat and sodium levels. Mediterranean Diet continually tops the list for healthy eating plans due to its accessibility, affordability, and taste! Dishes include sliced fresh tomatoes topped with crumbled feta cheese and sautéed spinach with lemon and couscous. Hundreds of scientific studies report that the healthy Mediterranean Diet and its lifestyle practices reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Africa

May

Melanoma Monday: May 5

06:20 AM | -

To raise awareness of melanoma and other types of skin cancer and encourage early detection through self-exams, the American Academy of Dermatology designates the first Monday in May as Melanoma Monday®. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Current estimates are that one in five Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer in their lifetime. Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, is the most common for adults between 25 and 30.

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