All - Leep Calendar

The corn dog is an American snack with multiple claimants to its creation. This popular street food consists of a hot dog coated in a thick layer of cornmeal batter and deep-fried. It has become synonymous with state fairs, sporting events, and street festivals. The story of the corn dog begins in the early 20th century, with various inventors across the United States staking their claim. Some narratives point to the Fletcher brothers, Carl and Neil, who purportedly introduced the corn dog at the Texas State Fair between 1938 and 1942. However, this account is contested by others, including claims from Pronto Pup vendors in Oregon, who argue that they invented the corn dog in 1939. Despite these competing origin stories, the corn dog's popularity is linked to its appeal as an easy-to-eat, portable, and delicious snack, ideally suited for the casual dining experience of fairgrounds and outdoor events. Its novelty and the convenience of enjoying a hot meal on the go cemented the corn dog's place in American food culture. The corn dog's appeal lies in its taste and embodiment of innovation and the spirit of American entrepreneurship. It represents a moment of culinary creativity, where traditional ingredients were combined in a novel way to create a new eating experience. This ingenuity, coupled with the nostalgia many Americans feel for state fairs and childhood memories, has kept the corn dog popular for decades. National Corn Dog Day, celebrated annually on the first Saturday of the NCAA Men's Division I Basketball Championship, adds a layer of cultural significance to this iconic snack. Established in the early 1990s by friends Henry Otley, Brady Sahnow, and Corbin Fries at Oregon State University in Corvallis, Oregon, the day was born to celebrate their love for corn dogs, basketball, and American culture. The founders saw the corn dog as a symbol of unity and celebration, bringing people together over shared traditions and enjoyment. National Corn Dog Day has since evolved from a local event to a national celebration, reflecting not just a love for the snack itself but the communal joy and the spirit of festivity it represents. It's a day when fans across the country indulge in corn dogs, tater tots, and American beer, embracing the simplicity and pleasure of this deep-fried delicacy.

Africa

Mar

Corned Beef and Cabbage Day: March 17

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Celebrate Corned Beef and Cabbage Day each year on Saint Patrick's Day. Corned beef and cabbage, a dish often associated with St. Patrick's Day celebrations in the United States, carries a complex history that intertwines with the socio-economic fabric of Ireland and the broader story of Irish immigration. Despite its strong association with Irish culture, the dish as it is popularly known today, particularly in the U.S., diverges from traditional Irish fare. The History and Making of Corned Beef Corned beef refers to brisket or another cut of meat cured or pickled in a seasoned brine. The term "corned" comes from the large grains or "corns" of salt historically used in curing. This method preserves meat and was common before the advent of refrigeration. The beef is soaked in a brine of water, salts, and spices and then slowly cooked until tender. This process preserves the meat and imparts a distinctively savory and slightly spicy flavor. Association with Ireland The association of corned beef with Ireland dates back to the 17th century when Ireland was a major producer of salted beef. However, the beef was mostly exported and too expensive for the average Irish family, which more commonly ate pork or bacon. The widespread consumption of corned beef and cabbage as an Irish dish is largely an American innovation developed by Irish immigrants in the 19th century. Upon arriving in the United States, many Irish immigrants found beef more readily available and affordable than it had been in their homeland, thanks to the booming cattle industry. However, the corned beef they encountered in America was different; it was Jewish corned beef, cured with a brine similar to the one used for Irish bacon and cheaper than pork. Irish immigrants adopted corned beef as a substitute for traditional bacon, pairing it with cabbage, an affordable and abundant vegetable. Global Variations While corned beef and cabbage epitomize an Irish-American dish, variations of corned beef are found in other cuisines worldwide. For example, corned beef combines rice and spices in the Caribbean for a tropical twist. In the Philippines, it transforms into a breakfast dish served with rice and eggs. Americans create a potato dish known as corned beef hash (literally mashed potatoes and corned beef mixed together), and the British have their version of salt beef, which can be similar to Irish corned beef but is often served in sandwiches or with potatoes and mustard. Cultural Significance The association of corned beef and cabbage with St. Patrick's Day in the United States has more to do with Irish-American identity than Irish national tradition. The dish symbolizes the adaptability and resilience of the Irish people, reflecting how immigrants modified their culinary traditions to suit their new circumstances while maintaining a connection to their heritage.

Africa

Mar

Courageous Followers Day: March 4

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The courageous follower provides emotional support for leaders but does not hesitate to speak truth to power constructively. He or she offers a model of bold leadership that creates conditions in which it is easier for followers to talk about the facts as they see them and for leaders to give appropriate consideration to what they are being told. When they work well together, leaders and followers create a true partnership and better service any organization's mission. Great leaders learn to lead first as followers. This month is about becoming an indispensable part of your organization's team and developing the skills that allow you to be a courageous follower today to become an excellent leader tomorrow.

Africa

Mar

Courtesy Day, Ntl. Common: March 21

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Common Courtesy Day is an unofficial holiday with no set sponsor. The word "courtesy" evolved from the English word "curtsey," a form of bowing first practiced with enthusiasm in the 16th century. Common Courtesy is the set of cultural rules within a given society. No matter where you are, some of these are universal. Every culture in the world uses "Please," "Thank you," "You're welcome," and "excuse me" in some form. These are considered universal. However, each society has its own rules governing other behaviors, such as who can speak first, whether to shake hands, when, how to eat, and more. National Common Courtesy Day is your opportunity to discover the common courtesies of your culture and learn a few from another.

Africa

Mar

Crabmeat Day: March 9

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National Crabmeat Day is recognized throughout the United States by seafood restaurants and often includes specials on crab-based dishes. The event itself has no official sponsor. Until recently, crabbing was considered one of the most dangerous occupations in the world, with the Bering Sea of Alaska functioning as the flash point. Crabbing began in earnest during the early 1900s as an occupation, and it was done derby style. Picture a concert without reserved seating and a mad rush for the best spots when the doors open. Derby fishing is like this. The season is only a few days long, and hundreds of boats would challenge each other to get to the best hunting grounds and pull up as many crabs as possible. In the chaos, many lives were lost, both human and crustacean. With Alaska officially becoming a state in 1959, the state and Federal authorities took control of the natural resources, including fish and shellfish. Regulations in the 1980s due to overfishing and global warming ended the free-for-all with laws, quotas, and enforcement of coastal waters. In 2005 a formal quota system was instituted basing the number of crabs that a ship could catch based on the previous year’s catch. The quota made the industry far safer but eliminated a large portion of the jobs. Today crab fishermen can be found in several territories: Alaska, Canada, Russia, Japan, Argentina, Chile, New Zealand, and Australia. The top four crabs sought are the King, Dungeness, Tanner, and Snow Crabs.

Africa

Mar

Craft Month, Ntl.: March

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Whether you sew, paint, sculpt, scrapbook, crochet, or turn bottle caps into art, March’s National Craft Month focuses on the hobbies and creativity that allow each person to express their unique style. Grab some glue and make something beautiful. National Craft Month began in 1994 as a way for individuals to participate in hands-on activities, try a new skill and discover the benefits of creativity. National Craft Month has grown into an international celebration of inspiration, innovation, and creativity, with millions of participants underscoring the familiar and near-universal experience of making. During National Craft Month, creative businesses across the country offer product discounts, special classes, demonstrations, and tips and projects to help people unleash and cultivate their creative abilities.

Africa

Mar

Crayola Crayon Day, Ntl. (1903): March 31

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Today is the anniversary marking the 1903 release of the first box of Crayons by Binney & Smith in upstate New York. In 1996 the 100 billionth Crayola crayon rolled off the production line in Easton, Pennsylvania. Most people today cannot imagine life without a childhood filled with crayons. To this day, these wax markers remain one of childhood's most beloved and used toys.

Africa

Mar

Credit Card Reduction Day: March 21

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CREDIT CARD REDUCTION DAY In a landscape where credit card debt looms as a formidable challenge for countless Americans, finding the most effective strategy to eliminate it is a pressing concern for many. Experts agree that while there is no one-size-fits-all solution, adopting a disciplined and strategic approach can significantly ease the burden of credit card debt. The first step in tackling credit card debt is to take a comprehensive inventory of all debts, noting the balances, interest rates, and monthly payments. This clarity is crucial for formulating a plan that targets debts efficiently. One widely recommended strategy is the debt avalanche method, which focuses on paying off the credit card with the highest interest rate first while maintaining minimum payments on others. This approach saves money in the long run by reducing the interest paid over time. Alternatively, the debt snowball method, endorsed by financial experts for its psychological wins, suggests paying off debts from smallest to largest. This method provides a sense of accomplishment with each debt cleared, keeping individuals motivated throughout their debt-elimination journey. Budgeting plays a pivotal role in debt reduction. Creating a realistic budget that prioritizes debt repayment without neglecting essential expenses is critical. Cutting discretionary spending, such as dining out and subscription services, can free up additional funds for debt payments. Another effective tactic is negotiating with credit card companies for lower interest rates. A simple phone call explaining one's financial situation and asking for a rate reduction can sometimes lead to significant savings on interest payments. For those with good credit, transferring balances to a card with a 0% introductory APR can provide a much-needed respite from high-interest rates, allowing more of the payment to go toward the principal balance. However, planning to pay off the balance before the promotional period ends is essential to avoid facing high rates again. Side hustles or part-time jobs can offer additional income specifically earmarked for debt repayment. This extra income can accelerate the debt elimination process significantly. In extreme cases, the best action might be to consult with a credit counseling agency for a debt management plan. These plans can consolidate debts into a single payment with a lower interest rate, though they may require closing credit accounts, which could impact credit scores. Eliminating credit card debt requires determination, discipline, and strategic financial planning. Staying committed to a repayment strategy, adapting as necessary, and avoiding new debt during repayment are crucial for economic freedom. The journey may be challenging, but the peace of mind and financial stability from debt-free are invaluable.

Africa

Mar

Credit Education Month: March

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March is National Credit Education Month. Each year Credit Professionals International and the Credit Education Resources Foundation sponsor events designed to remind consumers and educators, as well as business and government leaders, of the importance of developing the skills needed to manage their finances efficiently and effectively.

Africa

Mar

Crispus Attucks Day (1770): March 5

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Crispus Attucks is believed to have been born into slavery in 1723 and later escaped. His father was an African-American man, a slave, and his mother was of the Natick tribe of First Nation's people. He claimed his place in history on March 5, 1770, when he was killed during the Boston Massacre, making him the first American to die in the American Revolution. Today honors him, his sacrifice, and the contributions African and Native Americans have made to the United States.

Africa

Mar

Crochet Month, Ntl.: March

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This event has moved from a weekly to a monthly celebration in March. The first National Crochet Week occurred in 1998. Since, it has grown in popularity each year, with contests, awards, patterns, and ideas all made from thread and yarn. National Crochet Month’s mission is to promote CGOA and raise its visibility. CGOA is the only national organization supporting crochet education, art, and heritage while setting the standard for skill and quality.

Africa

Jun

Go Skating/Skateboarding Day: June 21

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Go Skateboarding Day, conceived by the International Association of Skateboard Companies, is an awareness campaign to promote the sport of skateboarding. Fundraising events, demos, and related activities occur throughout the country. This event began June 21, 2004, in Southern California. The organizers started with skateboarding lessons offered to the public, and it has since received Congressional recognition.

Africa

Jun

Godparent's Day, Intl: June 1

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Godparents began as a tradition in the Catholic Church. Still, today signify the people a couple believes should have a special bond with their children, like an honorary aunt or uncle. In religious families, the role of a godparent is to help the children understand their faith and support them throughout their lives. In secular families and more common today, the godparent is a trusted friend or relative who serves as a mentor, role model, and person second only to grandparents with spoiling rights, showering favor and attention on their godchildren throughout their lives. National Godparent's Day is situated between Mother's Day and Father's Day in the annual calendar, and it's a day to celebrate the village that raises a child. Annually on the first Sunday of June; the Church of England typically celebrates this day on the second Sunday of July.

Africa

Jun

Grand Prix of Austria (AT): June 29 (est)

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The Formula One schedule is set for the next year in the fourth quarter. These dates are estimated. The Austrian Grand Prix is a Formula One motor racing event held in Austria. It has been a part of the FIA Formula One World Championship calendar on and off since 1964. The race has been hosted at two different venues throughout its history: the Zeltweg Airfield and the Red Bull Ring (previously known as the Österreichring and A1-Ring). The first Austrian Grand Prix was held in 1964 at the Zeltweg Airfield circuit, but due to the track's poor conditions and safety concerns, the race was moved to the Österreichring in 1970. The Österreichring hosted the race until 1987, after which the event was discontinued due to safety issues and the need for circuit improvements. The Austrian Grand Prix returned to the Formula One calendar in 1997, after the circuit was renovated and renamed the A1-Ring. The race took place there until 2003 when it was once again removed from the calendar. In 2014, the event made its return after the circuit underwent further renovations and was renamed the Red Bull Ring. Since then, it has remained a fixture on the Formula One calendar. The Red Bull Ring is located in Spielberg, Styria, and is known for its picturesque surroundings, nestled in the Austrian countryside. The circuit is 4.318 km (2.683 mi) long and features a combination of long straights and fast, flowing corners, making it a thrilling and challenging track for drivers and teams. As with any other Formula One event, the Austrian Grand Prix provides an exciting weekend of racing, with practice sessions, qualifying, and the main race.

Africa

Jun

Grand Prix of Canada (CA-QC): June 15

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Formula One dates are set in the fourth quarter for the next year. This date is estimated. The Grand Prix of Canada began on the Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve in 1978. The race is 70 laps and 305.27 km long.

Africa