All - Leep Calendar

Jazz is an American musical invention that gained favor in the early 20th century. From it, many greats have risen. This month honors the African American women who were trailblazers in the genre. These include Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone, Sarah Vaughan, Billie Holiday, and Dinah Washington. Celebrate this month by taking some vinyl for a spin. It's the best way to hear jazz in its original form.

Africa

Mar

Blueberry Popover Day: March 10

06:20 AM | -

Blueberry popovers look a little like muffins, but they’re taller and lighter, like a soufflé with a consistency similar to Yorkshire pudding. However, popovers are an American culinary invention, with the first recipe premiering in 1876 in MN Henderson’s book, “Practical Cooking.” Blueberry Popover Day is an unofficial holiday with no sponsor, but enjoy the sweet taste of the day.

Africa

Mar

BMI Latin Awards: March 6

06:20 AM | -

The BMI Latin Awards or Billboard Latin Music Awards are a subset of the original Billboard Music Awards hosted by Billboard magazine. The awards program began in 1994 as a Latin Music Conference, capped by an awards ceremony. Beginning in 1999, The Billboard Latin Music Awards became a televised Telemundo event broadcast throughout the Americas, Puerto Rico, and Europe. Three special awards, unique to Billboard, are presented in addition to the general awards for best song, artist, album, etc. These are the Spirit of Hope, highlighting philanthropy, the Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Latin Music Hall of Fame inductees. The Billboard Latin Music Awards usually occur in April.

Africa

Mar

Bock Beer Day: March 20

06:20 AM | -

While not a widely recognized holiday, Bock Beer Day would celebrate the rich, malty, and somewhat strong tradition of Bock beer, a type of lager originating from Germany. Bock beer has a long history, tracing back to the medieval German town of Einbeck in the 14th century. It was later adopted by Bavarian brewers in the 17th century, who pronounced "Einbeck" as "ein Bock," meaning "a billy goat," which explains why many Bock beers today feature a goat on their labels. Bock beer is distinguished from other beers by its significant malt profile, with a higher alcohol content ranging from 6% to 7.5% by volume. Traditional Bock is a dark, sweet, and clear lager with a robust malt character, although there are several variations, including Maibock (or Helles Bock), a paler, more hop-centric version brewed for spring; Doppelbock, a more robust and sweeter version; and Eisbock, an even stronger beer made by partially freezing the beer and removing the ice to concentrate the flavor and alcohol. The brewing process for Bock beer sets it apart from other beers. It involves a longer lagering period (cold storage) lasting several months. This process helps create a smooth, rich flavor without harshness despite the high alcohol content. A higher proportion of malted barley enhances the malt's prominence in the flavor profile, giving Bock its characteristic sweetness and full-bodied taste. Regarding food pairings, Bock beer's hearty malt flavor and sweet undertones make it an excellent companion to a wide range of dishes. It pairs exceptionally well with roasted meats, such as pork, beef, and venison, complementing the caramelization of the meat. Its sweetness can balance the spiciness of dishes like barbecue or Mexican food. At the same time, its robust body makes it an excellent match for decadent, creamy desserts like cheesecake or crème brûlée. Cheese lovers will find that Bock beer pairs beautifully with aged cheeses, such as Gruyère or aged Cheddar, where the beer's sweetness contrasts nicely with the cheese's sharpness. Although Bock Beer Day is not an official holiday, beer enthusiasts may choose to celebrate this rich, flavorful beer by exploring its various styles and enjoying it with compatible dishes, thereby appreciating the centuries-old brewing traditions that continue to make Bock beer a beloved choice among beer connoisseurs around the world.

Africa

Mar

Boganda Day (CF)(1959): March 29

06:20 AM | -

Boganda Day in the Central African Republic marks the anniversary of the death in an airplane crash of their first President, Barthelemy Boganda (April 4, 1910 - March 29, 1959), on March 29, 1959. Boganda Day is a national holiday.

Africa

Mar

Bonza Bottler Day™, Intl: March 3

06:20 AM | -

When the number of the month matches the number of the day, that's Bonza Bottler Day. It is a play on numbers. There are twelve Bonza Bottler Days a year. This event began in 1985. Bonza is Australian for "Super." Bottler is slang for "something excellent."

Africa

Mar

Book Day, World (UK/IE): March 6

06:20 AM | -

World Book Day is an annual event that began in the United Kingdom. Its purpose is to promote books and reading to children and help them experience how enjoyable reading can be. Additionally, the event seeks to supply poor children globally with books they can take home and keep. Millions of children worldwide do not have access to libraries and books, and in some cases, the books children receive on World Book Day are the first books they’ll ever own. Contact information below can put schools and press in touch with the organizers of World Book Day, whether you’re seeking to create a local event or donate books for distribution to the cause.

Africa

Mar

Brain Awareness Week, Ntl.: March 10-16

06:20 AM | -

National Brain Awareness Week is celebrated globally to increase public awareness of the importance of brain research. The campaign brings together scientists, families, schools, and communities hosting varied events on brain-related topics. Libraries, community centers, and classrooms host brain exhibitions, lectures, and workshops to raise awareness.

Africa

Mar

Brain Injury Awareness Month: March

06:20 AM | -

The Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) and its network of state affiliates, self-advocates, families, and volunteers mark Brain Injury Awareness Month each March. A brain injury can happen anytime, anywhere, to anyone, and brain injuries do not discriminate. Over 2.4 million Americans sustain a brain injury each year. This month focuses on providing early detection, equal access to health care, and educating the public on best practices in preventing brain injuries. Canada observes its Brain Injury Awareness Month in June.

Africa

Mar

Breast Implant Awareness Month: March

06:20 AM | -

Racking It Up for Breast Implant Awareness Month Breast Implant Awareness Month, organized by The Implant Truth Survivors Committee, is observed annually since 2018, and seeks to educate and inform about the potential risks and complications associated with breast implants. This observance aims to provide comprehensive information to women considering implants and support those who have experienced complications. A breast implant is a medical prosthesis used to change a person's breast's size, shape, and contour. There are two main types of breast implants: saline-filled and silicone gel-filled. Each type has a silicone outer shell and differs in material and consistency. Women opt for breast implants for various reasons, including: Cosmetic Enhancement: To enhance the size and shape of breasts, often for aesthetic reasons. Reconstructive Purposes: Following mastectomy due to breast cancer or other conditions affecting the breast. Correction of Congenital Anomalies: To correct developmental abnormalities of the breast. Common issues experienced with breast implants include: Capsular Contracture: Scar tissue that forms around the implant, causing the breast to feel hard. Implant Rupture or Leakage: The implant shell can break, allowing the saline or silicone material to leak. Infection and Pain: Some women may experience infections or chronic breast pain. Breast Implant Illness (BII): Some women report a range of systemic symptoms (like fatigue, joint pain, and memory problems), though the scientific community continues to research this. Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL): A rare type of lymphoma that can develop around breast implants. The history of breast implants dates back to the 1960s. Two plastic surgeons, Frank Gerow and Thomas Cronin, developed the first silicone breast implants in 1961 in Houston, Texas. The first woman to receive silicone breast implants was Timmie Jean Lindsey in 1962. Since then, breast implants have undergone significant advancements in design, safety, and surgical techniques. Breast Implant Awareness Month is a platform for advocacy groups and medical communities to provide resources and support for informed decision-making. It highlights the importance of understanding the potential risks and long-term implications of breast implants and promotes patient education and safety in cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries.

Africa

Mar

Bretzelsonndeg (LU): March 30

06:20 AM | -

One of the sweeter, romantic customs in the LEEP Calendar, Bretzelsonndeg in Luxembourg is a Lent tradition occurring on the 4th Sunday of Lent each year. If a young man is interested in a young woman, he gives her a cake in the shape of a knot—aka pretzel. If she is interested in him, she gives him sweets, a decorated egg, or a gift on Easter Sunday. Of course, he must wait three weeks to learn her answer! But there is a hitch. During leap years, ladies give the pretzel cakes and wait three weeks for the men to respond. Awe, love!

Africa

Mar

Brit Awards (UK): March 1

06:20 AM | -

The Brit Awards are the British music industry's equivalent to the Grammy Awards and are highly anticipated. Televised in the United Kingdom. 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 only 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

Mar

British Bed Month (UK): March

06:20 AM | -

Check Your Bed During British Bed Month British Bed Month, observed annually in March, is an initiative started by The Sleep Council, part of the National Bed Federation of the United Kingdom. The month is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of a good bed for a healthy night's sleep and encouraging people to evaluate their sleeping arrangements. It addresses the often-overlooked impact of a poor-quality bed on sleep health. With research showing that people tend to keep their beds longer than the recommended lifespan, British Bed Month emphasizes the need for timely bed replacement. Knowing when to replace a bed involves several indicators: Age of the Bed: The general guideline is to replace a bed every seven to eight years, but this can vary based on the bed's quality and usage. Discomfort: Waking up with stiffness, aches, or pains can indicate that the bed no longer provides adequate support. Visible Signs of Wear: Sagging, lumps, or protruding springs clearly show that a bed needs replacing. Sleep Quality: Struggling to get comfortable or experiencing disturbed sleep could be due to an unsuitable bed. A wrong bed can significantly impact health: Poor Sleep Quality: An uncomfortable bed can lead to tossing and turning, preventing deep, restorative sleep. Physical Health Issues: Inadequate support can exacerbate or lead to back and joint pain. Mental Health Impact: Poor sleep can affect mood, cognitive function, and overall mental well-being. When looking for a new bed, consider the following features: Support: The bed should properly support your body weight and shape. Comfort: A good bed should feel comfortable regardless of its firmness level. Size: Ensure the bed is spacious enough for freedom of movement. Quality Materials: Look for durable materials and solid construction. Personal Preference: Consider individual preferences regarding mattress type (e.g., memory foam, spring) and firmness. MEMORY FOAM OR SPRING MATTRESS, WHICH IS BEST? Choosing between a memory foam mattress and a spring mattress depends mainly on individual preferences and specific needs, as each type has distinct features and benefits: Memory Foam Mattresses: Pressure Relief: Memory foam contours the body, providing excellent pressure relief and support, which can benefit people with joint or back pain. Motion Isolation: These mattresses absorb movement, making them a good choice for people who share a bed with a partner, especially if one person tends to move a lot during sleep. Temperature Sensitivity: Memory foam responds to body heat and can retain heat, which might be uncomfortable for some, although newer models often include cooling technologies. Support: They offer consistent support across the entire surface and can adapt to different body shapes and sizes. Durability: High-quality memory foam mattresses are durable and have a good lifespan. Spring Mattresses: Firm Support: Spring mattresses typically provide a firmer, more buoyant feel, preferable for those who like to sleep on top of the mattress rather than sinking into it. Cooler Sleep: The space between the springs allows for better air circulation, making these mattresses cooler to sleep on, which benefits people who tend to overheat at night. Variety: A wide range of spring mattresses are available, with varying spring counts and types (like pocket springs), offering different levels of support. Bounciness: The springs give these mattresses a bouncy feel, which some people prefer, especially for activities like sex. Price: Spring mattresses often come at a lower cost than high-quality memory foam mattresses. Ultimately, the "better" choice depends on what you find most comfortable and supportive. It's recommended to consider factors like your preferred sleeping position, any pain issues (like back pain), temperature preferences, and budget. Testing out both types in a store can also be very helpful in making an informed decision. British Bed Month reminds us of the critical role a bed plays in overall health and well-being. Retailers and manufacturers often participate by offering promotions and educational content, guiding consumers in making informed choices for optimal sleep quality.

Africa

Mar

British Pie Week and Awards (UK): March 3-9

06:20 AM | -

British Pie Week is a staple of the United Kingdom's culinary tradition and garners attention and participation from bakers, chefs, and pie enthusiasts throughout the island. Jus-Rol, a pastry manufacturer, initiated the week in 2007 as a marketing strategy to promote their products. Since then, it has evolved into a widely anticipated event celebrated by professional and amateur bakers. The term "pie" in British culture relates to something quite different from its American counterpart. British pies are predominantly savory, with hearty meat, vegetables, and gravy fillings, all encased in a shortcrust or puff pastry. While dessert pies exist in British cuisine, they are generally called tarts or pastries. With the odd exception, "pie" is reserved for savory varieties like steak and kidney or the iconic Cornish pasty. Contrast this to American pies, usually sweet and filled with fruits, custards, or cream-based mixtures held in a flaky, buttery crust. American pies are desserts often associated with holidays and family gatherings. FIVE QUINTESSENTIAL BRITISH PIES The five most popular British pies are renowned for their rich flavors and cultural significance. Each pie reflects a unique aspect of British culinary traditions: Steak and Kidney Pie— a traditional British comfort food. It typically consists of diced steak and kidney, often from beef, lamb, or pork, cooked in a rich gravy and encased in a shortcrust or puff pastry. Its savory depth of flavor makes it a perennial favorite. Chicken and Mushroom Pie—a staple in British cuisine, this pie combines tender pieces of chicken with mushrooms in a creamy sauce. The filling is encased in a flaky pastry, making it both comforting and satisfying. It's a popular choice in both home cooking and pub menus. Cornish Pasty— though technically a pasty rather than a pie, the Cornish pasty is an iconic British food item often grouped with pies. Traditionally, it contains beef, potatoes, swede (rutabaga), and onion wrapped in a D-shaped shortcrust pastry. Originating from Cornwall, it was a convenient lunch for miners, as it was easy to hold and eat. Pork Pie—Known for its distinctive cold, gelatin-set meat filling and hot water crust pastry, the pork pie is a British delicacy. It typically features seasoned, minced pork meat and is often enjoyed with pickles or chutney. Leicestershire's Melton Mowbray pork pie is particularly famous. Fish Pie—Unlike others, fish pie is typically crustless, making it unique. It's a comforting dish made with a mix of fish (salmon, cod, and haddock), hard-boiled eggs, and a creamy white sauce topped with mashed potatoes and cheese. It's a beloved family meal known for its rich and creamy taste. These pies, with their diverse fillings and styles, illustrate the variety and richness of British pie-making traditions, each offering a unique taste of the nation's culinary heritage. The history of British pies dates back to the medieval period, serving both practical and gastronomic purposes. The crust, or "coffyn" as it was known then, was more of a cooking vessel than an edible component, designed to preserve the filling. Over time, these pies evolved, with the crust becoming a beloved part of the dish. Pies were a convenient, portable meal for workers and travelers in the pre-modern era, and they played a significant role in British cuisine, reflecting regional ingredients and tastes. THE BRITISH PIE COMPETITION The culinary competition during British Pie Week forms the centerpiece of the celebration. It attracts diverse entrants, from local pubs and bakeries to renowned chefs, all competing to showcase their pie-making skills. Categories often vary from traditional meat pies to vegetarian and 'free-from' options, catering to various dietary preferences. The competition is a testament to the creativity and innovation in modern British pie-making while honoring the deep-rooted traditions of this beloved British dish. British Pie Week not only celebrates the culinary delight that is the British pie but also reflects the country's rich cultural and historical tapestry. From its humble medieval beginnings to its present-day status as a beloved national dish, the British pie remains a symbol of comfort, tradition, and the ever-evolving nature of the UK's culinary landscape.

Africa

Mar

British Science Week (UK): March 7-16 (est))

06:20 AM | -

British Science Week is a significant annual event in the United Kingdom that celebrates science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Organized by the British Science Association (BSA), this ten-day celebration aims to engage a broad audience, including students, educators, and the public, in appreciating and understanding the wonders of science. British Science Week, traditionally held in March, dates back to 1994. The event was initially known as National Science Week but was rebranded to its current name to reflect its broadening scope and reach. The BSA, a charity established in 1831, spearheads the event with the support of the UK government and various partners and sponsors. The week includes multiple activities, experiments, debates, and shows hosted nationwide, designed to appeal to people of all ages and backgrounds. England's contribution to scientific discovery is rich and varied, highlighting the nation's significant role in advancing global science. Landmark English contributions include Isaac Newton's laws of motion and gravity, Charles Darwin's theory of evolution by natural selection, Michael Faraday's work in electromagnetism, and Francis Crick and James Watson's co-discovery of the structure of DNA, alongside their colleague Rosalind Franklin's crucial X-ray crystallography work. These discoveries have been foundational in their respective fields, shaping modern scientific understanding and progress. The purpose of British Science Week transcends mere celebration; it inspires and fosters public interest in science. It aims to engage young people and encourage them to consider science careers, addressing a vital need for future generations of scientists, engineers, and technologists. British Science Week strives to make science accessible and inclusive, breaking down stereotypes and barriers associated with STEM fields. British Science Week is a testament to the United Kingdom's enduring legacy and commitment to science and education. Through engaging activities and events, it honors past scientific achievements. It looks forward to fostering a new generation of scientific minds, underscoring the importance of science in everyday life and future societal advancements.

Africa