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National Physical Fitness and Sports Month is declared each May by the President of the United States. It is a month to raise awareness about the benefits of physical activity. Families are encouraged to make small changes, like taking a walk after dinner or riding a bike. Teachers and administrators work to make physical activity a part of every student's day. Business leaders are encouraged to engage with the community, youth leaders, and their peers about the importance of being active. Activities include: Presidential Youth Fitness Program—A comprehensive school-based program that promotes health and regular physical activity for America's youth—This voluntary program offers educators free access to a health-related assessment for youth fitness, professional development for meaningful implementation, and motivational recognition to empower students to adopt and maintain an active lifestyle. Adult Fitness Test measures an adult's aerobic fitness, muscular strength, flexibility, and other health-related fitness—Use this test to see how fit you are by completing the testing activities, entering your data online, and receiving an evaluation. It's the jump start to a healthier you! PALA Program—Motivational program for individuals and families who want to make physical activity and healthy eating part of their everyday lives. This challenge is for anyone, from kids to grandparents, who wants to live a more active and healthier lifestyle. Presidential Champions—a program for people who want to be more active more often. Earn your champion award by logging activities and earning points as you do them. It's a significant next step if you've completed your PALA+ challenge or for people who already get regular exercise.

Africa

May

Physiotherapy Month, Ntl. (CA): May

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Sponsored by Canadian Physiotherapy Association, National Physiotherapy Month seeks to educate the public about and celebrate the profession of physiotherapy. Currently, there are over 20,000 registered physiotherapists in Canada. Physiotherapists provide to promote good health, prevent injury, and improve the physical function and well-being of Canadians through the treatment of a wide range of conditions. Throughout the month, patients and the public will have the opportunity to learn more about what physiotherapists do and how they help their patients live fuller, healthier, and more independent lives. Canadians are encouraged to share their NPM activities by tweeting, sharing photos, videos, and exciting articles about physiotherapy.

Africa

May

Piercing Day, Ntl: May 16

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National Piercing Day began in 2007 through grassroots enthusiasts' efforts to celebrate the many ways you can pierce your body. Check your local piercing parlors for specials on this day.

Africa

May

Plant Health Day, Intl.: May 12

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The United Nations designated 12 May the International Day of Plant Health (IDPH) to raise global awareness on how protecting plant health can help end hunger, reduce poverty, protect biodiversity and the environment, and boost economic development. The Day is a key legacy of the International Year of Plant Health 2020.

Africa

May

Plant Health Week (UK): May 12-18 (est)

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Plant Health Week in the United Kingdom focuses on identifying foliage in distress. Grey squirrels bark strip trees during spring and summer, damaging, stressing, and killing trees. Their actions impact biodiversity, the absorption of carbon, and timber production. #PlantHealthWeek

Africa

May

PlayStation Days of Play: May 28 - June 11 (est)

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PLAYSTATION DAYS OF PLAY: A GAMER'S EVENT PlayStation's National Days of Play, an annual promotion in early June, celebrates gaming with exclusive deals, special events, and unique content for PlayStation enthusiasts. Launched in 2017, Days of Play has quickly become a highly anticipated event, drawing participation from gamers worldwide. Days of Play is a promotional period during which Sony Interactive Entertainment offers significant discounts on PlayStation hardware, games, and accessories. It features limited-time sales on popular titles, exclusive bundles, and special editions of PlayStation consoles. Additionally, the event often includes community-focused activities, such as online multiplayer events and unique in-game challenges designed to engage and reward PlayStation users. HISTORY AND PURPOSE The inaugural Days of Play event in 2017 recognized and thanked the PlayStation community for their support. Over the years, it has grown in scale, offering more extensive discounts and a wider range of activities. The primary purpose of Days of Play is to enhance the gaming experience for PlayStation users by providing them with affordable access to new and exciting content while also fostering a sense of community among gamers. HOW TO PARTICIPATE Gamers from around the globe participate in Days of Play. The event is open to anyone with a PlayStation console, and gamers can access deals through various retail partners and the PlayStation Store. Special events and challenges are available to all PlayStation Network members, encouraging widespread engagement. To participate in Days of Play, gamers can visit the PlayStation Store online or check with authorized retailers for special offers and bundles. They can also participate in community events by logging into the PlayStation Network and engaging in multiplayer sessions or in-game challenges. Keeping an eye on PlayStation's official blog and social media channels is also recommended for updates on promotions and events. HISTORY OF PLAYSTATION PlayStation, a brand of video game consoles created and developed by Sony Interactive Entertainment, debuted in December 1994. The original PlayStation revolutionized the gaming industry with its advanced graphics and extensive game library. Since then, the brand has evolved through multiple generations, with the PlayStation 2, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, and the current PlayStation 5, each introducing new technological advancements and expanding the gaming ecosystem. Over its history, PlayStation has become synonymous with high-quality gaming and has cultivated a loyal and passionate user base. PlayStation's National Days of Play is a vibrant celebration of gaming. It allows the PlayStation community to enjoy exclusive deals, connect through shared activities, and explore new gaming experiences. As the event grows yearly, it underscores PlayStation's commitment to its fans and role in the global gaming landscape.

Africa

May

Podenco Day, Intl. (ES/UK): May 1

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International Podenco Day brings awareness to the suffering and plight of this much maligned Spanish hunting breed. They are referred to as the “great forgotten”. A fundraising and awareness event, marches are held in various locations in Spain and the UK. Podencos often hunt with Galgos and are typically discarded once their owners have gotten their use from them. Like Galgos, they are consider hunting tools and do not share the legal protection as that of home pets. They are identified by their bubblegum pink noses and oversized perked up ears. Podencos are primarily used to hunt hares and boar in packs. Known for their endurance and deft agility, it's these very qualities that when hunting in packs of up to 24 dogs, often result in injury or death.

Africa

May

Poem on Your Pillow Day: May 6

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Poem on your Pillow Day is easy to celebrate. Just slip a poem onto a friend’s, guest’s, child’s, or lover’s pillow. Consider reading the poem aloud once found. Yes, pillow fights and jumping on the bed will be allowable for active types. Just try not to hurt the poems. We can’t wait to celebrate this day with you! See the Tweetspeak website for ideas, poems, and templates.

Africa

May

Police Day, Ntl. (FM): May 10

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On May 10th each year, the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) celebrates its National Police Day. This day is dedicated to honoring the FSM National Police and their efforts in maintaining law and order, protecting the citizens, and ensuring the safety and security of the nation. National Police Day is an opportunity to recognize the important role of the police force in the country and to express gratitude for their service and dedication. Activities on this day may include ceremonies, speeches, and events that highlight the work of the police, as well as community engagement activities to strengthen the relationship between the police and the public.

Africa

May

Police Week, Ntl.: May 11-17

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National Police Week is a nationally recognized event in the US supported by presidential decree since 1962. "As a nation, we rely on law enforcement officers to keep our neighborhoods safe, enforce our laws, and respond in times of crisis. These men and women sustain peace and order across America, and we look to them as models of courage and integrity. This week, we honor their extraordinary service and sacrifice and remember the fallen heroes whose selfless acts have left behind safer streets and stronger communities. Every day, peace officers face the threat of violence and danger. They routinely put their lives on the line to defend ours, and the price of that bravery may result in injury, disability, or death. The steadfast dedication of our country's law enforcement officers warrants more than praise. That is why my Administration has provided billions of dollars in grants to support State, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies. These funds give peace officers the tools and resources they need to help ensure our safety. Thanks to law enforcement officers, our nation is more secure. They work with vigilance and dedication to identify and arrest those who seek to do us harm. They have also been instrumental in foiling many potential attacks, including the recent plot in New York City's Times Square. From combating terror and staking out criminals to patrolling our highways, peace officers, with the strong support of their families, maintain stability in our communities as we go about our daily lives. This week, we recognize their invaluable contributions to upholding justice, enforcing the rule of law, and protecting the innocent. By a joint resolution approved October 1, 1962, as amended (76 Stat. 676), and by Public Law 103-322, as amended (36 USC 136-137), the President has been authorized and requested to designate May 15 of each year as Peace Officers Memorial Day, and the week in which it falls as Police Week."

Africa

May

Portuguese Language Day, World: May 5

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Bom dia! The date of 5 May is celebrated as "World Portuguese Language Day" to honor the Portuguese language and Lusophone cultures. This day was officially established in 2009 by the Community of Portuguese-speaking Countries (CPLP), which is in partnership with UNESCO. The Portuguese language is widely spoken, with over 265 million speakers across the globe, making it one of the most widespread languages. It is also the most commonly spoken language in the southern hemisphere. Portuguese continues to be an important language for international communication and is expected to grow in prominence in the future.

Africa

May

Posture Month: May

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May is Posture Month, a chance to pay attention to how you stand, walk, lift and sit. Proper posture places the least strain on supporting muscles and ligaments during movement and weight-bearing activities. Plus, good posture makes you look confident, healthy, and vital. Correct posture: a) Keeps bones and joints in correct alignment to decrease stress on joint surfaces that could result in degenerative arthritis and joint pain. b) Reduces stress on the ligaments holding the spinal joints together, minimizing the likelihood of injury. It allows muscles to work more efficiently, allowing the body to use less energy and preventing muscle fatigue. c) Helps prevent muscle strain, and overuse disorders, including back and muscular pain. Poor posture can lead to excessive strain on our postural muscles and may even cause them to relax when held in certain positions for long periods. For example, you can typically see this in people who bend forward at the waist for a prolonged time in the workplace. Their postural muscles are more prone to injury and back pain. Several factors contribute to poor posture-most commonly, stress, obesity, pregnancy, weak postural muscles, abnormally tight muscles, and high-heel shoes. In addition, decreased flexibility, a poor work environment, incorrect working posture, and unhealthy sitting and standing habits can also contribute to poor body positioning.

Africa

May

Potato, Intl. Day of the: May 30

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CELEBRATING THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE POTATO The humble potato, a staple food cherished worldwide, is celebrated globally on May 30, the United Nations International Day of the Potato. This day, which unites people from all corners of the world, highlights the versatility, nutritional value, and historical significance of one of the world's most important crops. Originating from the Andean region of South America, potatoes were domesticated by the indigenous peoples of modern-day Peru and northwest Bolivia over 7,000 years ago. Spanish explorers brought the potato to Europe in the late 16th century, and it has since become a dietary staple in many cultures across the globe. TYPES OF POTATOES Potatoes come in numerous varieties, each with unique characteristics and culinary uses: Russet Potatoes With brown, rough skin and starchy consistency, are ideal for baking, frying, and mashing. Red Potatoes Smooth red skin and waxy texture. Red potatoes are excellent for boiling and roasting and in salads. Yukon Gold Potatoes Their yellowish flesh and buttery flavor make them perfect for mashing, roasting, and gratins. Fingerling Potatoes Small, elongated potatoes with a firm texture; fingerlings are great for roasting and adding to salads. Purple Potatoes Recognized for their striking purple skin and flesh. They are rich in antioxidants and add color to any dish. NUTRITION Potatoes, often underestimated, are not only versatile but also packed with nutrients. A medium-sized potato with skin provides a significant amount of Vitamin C, Potassium, Fiber, Vitamin B6, and Antioxidants, making it a powerhouse of health benefits. Vitamin C: Essential for immune function and skin health. Potassium: Helps regulate blood pressure and fluid balance. Fiber: Aids in digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness. Vitamin B6: Important for brain health and metabolism. Antioxidants: In colored varieties like purple potatoes, which help fight free radicals. POPULAR POTATO DISHES Potatoes are a vital ingredient in many beloved dishes around the world: French Fries The most famous potato dish, French fries, is enjoyed globally as a snack or side dish. Mashed Potatoes A comfort food staple often served with gravy or butter. Potato Salad Popular at picnics and barbecues, made with boiled potatoes, mayonnaise, and various seasonings. Baked Potatoes Simple yet satisfying, often topped with butter, cheese, sour cream, and chives. Potato Soup It is a hearty and warming dish, perfect for cold weather. Gnocchi Italian potato dumplings served with a variety of sauces. Tortilla Española A Spanish omelet with potatoes and eggs served as tapas. The International Day of the Potato celebrates potatoes' diverse and indispensable role in global cuisine and agriculture. From the Andes to the rest of the world, the potato's journey is a testament to its adaptability and nutritional value. This adaptability is not just a survival strategy but an inspiration to embrace change and thrive in any situation.

Africa

May

Prayer, National Day of: May 1

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The National Day of Prayer was created in 1952; however, throughout American history, many official National Days of Prayer have existed. It is non-denominational and not specific to any religion, and Sikhs, Muslims, Christians, Jews, and people from all faiths participate. In recent years atheist groups have created an alternative to this day, known as the National Day of Reason. The constitutionality of the day is regularly challenged on First Amendment grounds. Prayer has played an essential role in the American story and in shaping our Nation's leaders. President Abraham Lincoln once said, "I have been driven many times upon my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go. My own wisdom and that of all about me seemed insufficient for the day." The late Coretta Scott King recounted a tough night during the Montgomery bus boycott when her husband, the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., received a threatening phone call and prayed at the kitchen table, saying, "Lord, I have nothing left. I have nothing left. I have come to the point where I can't face it alone." Dr. King said in that moment of prayer, he was filled with a sense of comfort and resolve, which his wife credited as a turning point in the civil rights movement.

Africa

May

Preakness Stakes: May 17

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The Preakness Stakes is a horse racing competition held annually at Pimlico racetrack in Baltimore, Maryland, since 1919. It's one of the oldest and most famous horse races in the United States and forms the second race of the Triple Crown, which includes the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes.

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