All - Leep Calendar

Public Sleeping Day could be cast as a silly holiday that makes fun of people who fall asleep in public. Or, this day can be used to focus attention on a very serious problem: homelessness or the newspeak of "unhoused." It's the same thing, regardless of what you call it. Since there is no sponsor or event originator, it is really up to you how you want to mark it. A personal note from Laura: I lived in Los Angeles until July 2014, when one in 14 people was homeless. The city has the largest homeless population in the United States, partly because it is warm and partly because of the high cost of housing. Like a lot of people, I got hit hard by the Great Recession and lost everything. I broke up with my fiancé, left my job for an opportunity overseas, and then had to return when the market crashed. It was so bad that three times between November 2008 and April 2010, I found myself within three days of being homeless. It terrified me, and I was even looking at ways to convert the backseat of my car into a bed. For me, a new freelance job came in just in time, and I avoided it, but thousands of others didn't. I wasn't alarmist. Except for one person I knew well, everyone lost their job between 2008 and 2010. Several friends lost their homes and businesses, and we did everything right. We went to college, got degrees, and built companies, families, and careers—yet we still lost everything. Last week I walked down to my local Vons and saw a young woman about 32 sleeping in her Mustang convertible in the parking lot. The grocery store parking lots are a favorite place for those with cars and no homes to park in Los Angeles. That was last week, in February 2014. Rather than making this a silly holiday, I suggest that people take the chance to use this day to look around. You'll see them, the homeless, who must sleep during the day because it's too dangerous at night. They're under overpasses, trees in the park, behind dumpsters, and on the beach. They're everywhere, and it is one of the saddest commentaries in our society. We're the richest country in the world, yet millions of our citizens live on the streets. Let's make Public Sleeping Day count by seeking ways to end homelessness in the United States.

Africa

Feb

Publicity for Profit Week: February 2-8

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Publicity for Profit Week is an unofficial event likely emerging from the marketing and public relations industry. It focuses on strategically using publicity to drive business success and profitability. As businesses increasingly recognized the value of strategic publicity in driving profit, dedicating time to focus on these practices would have become a logical step. Publicity is not directly paid for, and the company cannot control the ultimate message. Advertising is paid for, with complete control of the message delegated to the company. Publicity is part of public relations. Advertising is part of promotion. Public relations, promotion, strategy, and sales form the four components defining marketing. Publicity for Profit Week highlights the importance of effective publicity strategies in enhancing business visibility and profitability. It's a period for businesses, marketing professionals, and public relations experts to focus on developing and implementing publicity campaigns that align with business goals and contribute to financial success. From traditional media campaigns to modern digital marketing strategies, the ability to effectively publicize products, services, and brand messages has been crucial for business growth and success. Though not officially recognized, Publicity for Profit Week represents a concept integral to business and marketing. It underscores the importance of strategic publicity in driving business profitability and reminds professionals to continually refine and innovate their publicity approaches for optimal business performance.

Africa

Feb

Pudding-Snack Month, Ntl.: February

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National Pudding Snack Month celebrates the preserving advances that made it possible in 1968 for the pudding to be made and kept without refrigeration. The end result? Chocolate pudding and other flavors in lunch boxes. Celebrate today by eating your favorite pudding snack and then science for making it possible.

Africa

Feb

Pull Your Sofa Off the Wall Month: February

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"Pull Your Sofa Off the Wall Month" plays on the desire for "Spring cleaning" and is championed by Merry Maids, Inc. Dust bunnies, crumbs, and other litter love to hide behind and under furniture. Just because you can't see them doesn't mean they're not there. Mice, insects, and other pests find them, and thank you for the bounty. That's where pulling your sofa off the wall comes in. Proper maintenance and cleaning of these areas are crucial for maintaining a clean and healthy living environment. The event highlights the need for deep cleaning in areas often overlooked during regular cleaning routines. HOW TO CLEAN A ROOM There is an art to cleaning well, beginning from the top down. The very last thing you do is clean the floor. Why? Gravity. Dust, dirt, and dinge fall to the ground. You also want to start from the walls and work toward the center of the room. To thoroughly clean a room: Declutter—Start by removing any clutter. Put away items that are out of place. Decluttering includes washing the dishes in the sink, picking up the laundry on the floor, and dispensing with that pile of trinkets near the front door. Dust—Dust all surfaces, starting from the top and working down. Remember areas like ceiling fans, window sills, and baseboards. Clean Furniture—Wipe down furniture with a suitable cleaner. Pay attention to handles and frequently touched areas. Clean Windows and Mirrors—Use a glass cleaner for streak-free windows and mirrors. Disinfect—Use disinfectants on high-touch areas like doorknobs, countertops, light switches, and remote controls. Vacuum or Sweep—Clean the floor, starting from one corner of the room and moving systematically across. Mop—If you have non-carpeted floors, mop after sweeping or vacuuming. Final Touches—Replace any items you moved for cleaning, fluff pillows, and straighten decorations. Cleaning isn't fun, but it is necessary for a healthy home. Use Pull Your Sofa Off the Wall Month as an inspiration to get a jump on your Spring cleaning.

Africa

Feb

Pulses Day, World: February 10

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Capitalizing upon a successful United Nation's Year of Pulses in 2016, February 10, beginning in 2019, is designated World Pulse Day. Pulses are edible seeds. World Pulses Day aims to heighten public awareness of the nutritional benefits of pulses as part of sustainable food production aimed toward food security and nutrition. The day creates a unique opportunity to encourage connections throughout the food chain that would better utilize pulse-based proteins, further global production of pulses, better implement crop rotations and address the challenges in the trade of pulses.

Africa

Feb

Puppy Bowl: February 9

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The Puppy Bowl is Animal Planet's answer to the Super Bowl. It is a football game played by real puppies with kitten cheerleaders and other animal announcers. It typically airs during the half-time show for the Super Bowl and is one of the cutest things you'll ever see. Available on Animal Planet and YouTube internationally.

Africa

Feb

Qatar Sports Day (QA): February 11

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Howdy! We're working on the description for this event. It's one of over two thousand events added to the calendar this year. We have verified it is an authentic event and have included the organization behind it for our members. In the meantime, we wanted to make sure you were able to include it in your search for events this month and in this category. We appreciate your patience!

Africa

Feb

Quiet Day: February 25

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Quiet Day is an unofficial event that resonates with many seeking respite from the noise and busyness of modern life or unplugging from electronics. It's also the perfect opportunity for parents to ask for quiet time, whether it works or not. The day emphasizes the importance of quietness and stillness in an increasingly loud and fast-paced world. Its ideas align with various cultural and spiritual practices that have long valued silence and stillness for mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. It is believed to have originated in Japan. The purpose of Quiet Day is to encourage individuals to take a break from the constant noise and distractions of daily life. It's a day for personal reflection, relaxation, and finding peace in quietude absent technology, media, and a hectic pace of life, often leaving little room for silence and contemplation. Historically, the value of quiet and stillness has been recognized in many cultures and spiritual traditions. For instance, in Buddhism and Hinduism, quiet meditation is used to achieve inner peace and enlightenment. In Christianity, periods of silence are used for prayer and connection with the divine. Similarly, many indigenous cultures have rituals and practices that involve periods of silence as a form of respect and deep reflection. In a contemporary context, Quiet Day might include activities such as meditating, spending time in nature, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in quiet hobbies like reading or journaling. The idea is to disconnect from the external world's constant stimulation and reconnect with oneself. Quiet Day offers a valuable concept for those seeking balance and peace. It serves as a reminder of the benefits of removing noise and distraction. It provides an opportunity to focus on personal well-being through stillness and tranquility.

Africa

Feb

Rabbit Month, ASPCA Adopt-a-Rescued: February

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Rabbits make wonderful pets, and they can be trained to use a litter box. They’ll come when called, and some will engage their owners in a daily game of tag! Domestic rabbits are delightful companion animals, inquisitive, intelligent, sociable, and affectionate. Well-cared-for indoor rabbits can live for seven to ten plus years. With over 60 breeds, including the Dutch or the droopy-eared German lops and furry Cashmere, rabbits range in size from teeny two-pounders to the 13-pound Flemish Giant. Each year thousands of rabbits are rescued from rabbit mills or bad owners. February is the ASPCA’s annual month set aside to adopt a rescued rabbit.

Africa

Feb

Race Relations Day: February 14

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Race Relations Day is supported by multiple religious organizations but does not have a specific sponsor. Coinciding with Valentine's Day, it is a day to promote interracial and interfaith appreciation in love and life.

Africa

Feb

Radio Day, World (1946): February 13

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World Radio Day celebrates audio media. Its purpose is to improve international cooperation between broadcasters and encourage major networks and community radio to promote access to information, freedom of expression, and gender equality over the airwaves. As radio continues to evolve in the digital age, it remains the medium that reaches the widest audience worldwide. It is essential to further UNESCO’s commitment to promoting gender equality and women’s empowerment. The day marks the anniversary of the establishment of the United Nations Radio, February 13, 1946.

Africa

Feb

Rafik Hariri Memorial Day (LB)(2005): February 14

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Rafik Hariri Memorial Day in Lebanon is observed annually on February 14, commemorating the assassination of former Prime Minister Rafik Hariri. This day marks the tragic event in 2005 when Hariri, along with 21 others, was killed in a massive car bombing in Beirut. The assassination sent shockwaves through Lebanon and the international community, leading to widespread demonstrations known as the Cedar Revolution, which ultimately forced the withdrawal of Syrian troops from Lebanon after a 29-year presence. Rafik Hariri heavily contributed to post-civil war Lebanon. He served as prime minister from 1992 to 1998 and 2000 to 2004. His tenure was marked by efforts to rebuild the country's infrastructure and economy, earning him respect and admiration as a significant figure in Lebanon's path toward reconstruction and modernization. Hariri's legacy is honored annually through various memorial events across Lebanon. The main ceremony typically occurs at his final resting place near the Mohammad Al-Amin Mosque in downtown Beirut. Political figures, dignitaries, and public members gather to pay their respects, laying wreaths and pausing for moments of silence. The day also serves as an occasion for political speeches and statements from the Hariri family and political allies. They often address current national issues, reflecting on Hariri's vision for Lebanon and calling for justice and unity in a country that continues to navigate political and economic challenges. Rafik Hariri's influence extends beyond the annual memorial. His philanthropic work and development initiatives have left a lasting impact on Lebanese society. Additionally, the ongoing quest for justice in his assassination case has been a central theme in Lebanese politics, with the Special Tribunal for Lebanon (established by the United Nations) investigating and prosecuting suspects involved in the bombing. In summary, Rafik Hariri Memorial Day is a solemn occasion in Lebanon, serving both as a remembrance of the late Prime Minister's assassination and as a reflection on his substantial role in the nation's post-war history. It is a day marked by tributes and remembrance, evoking Lebanon's complex interplay of politics, social unity, and the pursuit of sovereignty and justice.

Africa

Feb

Ramadan (M): February 28 - March 30

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The Islamic holy month of Ramadan begins today at sundown for most Muslims and for Shi'ite Muslims on the next day. For those doing business with the Islamic world, many businesses will close or have shortened hours. Muslim employees in Muslim majority countries typically work six hours or less during Ramadan. Most activity takes place at night, not during the day, and government offices can be closed for up to three weeks leading into and through the Eid al-Fitr holiday following. About Ramadan The holy month of Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and considered the most sacred. In the Qu'ran, the holy book of Islam, fasting during the month is one of the five pillars of the faith. Ramadan, Muslims believe, is the month in which the totality of the Qu'ran was revealed to prophet Mohammed by God (Allah). The month officially begins when the mufti in Mecca declares it has begun and has seen the crescent moon (Hilāl) on the horizon. Therefore, it may fall a day before or after what we are noting. Fasting (Fardh) begins before sunrise after the first meal called Suhoor. Fasting continues until sunset and is broken with a meal called Iftar. The fasting continues for 30 days. Each year Ramadan falls 11 days earlier in the Gregorian Calendar. During the fast, devout Muslims abstain from food, drink (including water), smoking and sex during daylight hours, as well as negative activities including gossip, to focus on their relationship with God and strengthen their faith. The only people exempt from the fast are young children, the ill, travelers, diabetics and breastfeeding or menstruating women. Menstruating women and travelers are required to make up missed fasting later in the year. Charity to and in service of others is a big part of Ramadan. Many global charities will offer matching funds to increase the impact of charitable giving during the month. Prayers (Salat) are increased, and reading the Qu'ran is visible everywhere in Muslim majority nations. The 3 Phases of Ramadan Each week of Ramadan has different significance, with the last 10 days being the most holy. The first 10 days are known as the Days of Mercy. During this time observant Muslims pray for God’s mercy and forgiveness for any transgressions they have committed. The second 10 Days are known as the Days of Forgiveness. During these days observant Muslims pray for God’s forgiveness and work to change their ways (repent) from any thoughts or actions that have lead them astray. The last 10 days are devoted to worship of God and deliverance from evil, (hellfire) and considered the most holy. These include Laila-tul-Qadr, which the Qu'ran states is the most powerful night of the year. It is the night when all good deeds and devotions are magnified. Fasting is believed to cleanse the soul and inspire a fear of God (Taqwa). It is a common practice within nearly every faith. —————————— Non-Muslims living or traveling in the Islamic World during Ramadan Non-Muslims living in most Muslim majority countries are required to observe fasting laws in public, but exempt in private. Most companies in the Muslim world will have a room set aside for non-Muslim employees and exempt people where they can drink coffee, tea and water, eat and socialize without disturbing those observing the fast. Non-Muslim employees usually work full days for the entire month. Traveling is a little more difficult. Non-Muslims traveling through Muslim majority countries will often find no services during daylight hours and public fasting laws strictly enforced in public spaces, including airports. Outside of some premium airport lounges in select countries, the blackout of services in all public spaces is enforced, particularly in the GCC. It’s advisable to make dinner reservations at popular restaurants in Muslim majority countries during Ramadan. Most will not open until after sundown and Iftar dinners, especially on Friday nights, are equivalent in size and celebration to Christmas or Thanksgiving dinner in other parts of the world. Some countries and cities where alcohol is available at other times of the year will suspend all sales of liquor during Ramadan. Other countries with Muslim minorities, like Sri Lanka, may suspend the sale of liquor during specific days of Ramadan and the Eid celebration that follows. This is common in Buddhist societies; it is a sign of respect. For non-Muslims traveling to or through Asia, North Africa or the Middle East during or immediately following Ramadan, it is advisable to check with your hotels ahead of time to find out if they support any specific traditions and adjust your travel plans or expectations accordingly.

Africa

Feb

Random Acts of Kindness Day: February 17

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Random Acts of Kindness Day occurs during Random Acts of Kindness Week. Dr. Chuck Wall, a professor at Bakersfield College, recalled hearing about "random, senseless acts of violence" on the news in 1993 and was inspired to assign his students the task of committing "one random act of senseless kindness" as homework. He has since copyrighted the phrase. The grass-roots movement encourages people to spontaneously do something nice for someone else without expecting anything in return, which built up steam during the 90s. In 2004, Oprah Winfrey devoted an entire episode to the concept. People around the globe have embraced the concept. Websites have been developed to encourage and record these acts, movies like "Pay It Forward" and "Amelie" use the concept as their premise, and schools have monthly Random Acts of Kindness Awards for students who commit them.

Africa

Feb

Random Acts of Kindness Week: February 9-15

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Dr. Chuck Wall, a professor at Bakersfield College, recalled hearing about "random, senseless acts of violence" on the news in 1993 and was inspired to assign his students the task of committing "one random act of senseless kindness" as homework. He has since copyrighted the phrase. A grass-roots movement, Random Acts of Kindness Week encourages people to do something nice for someone else spontaneously with no expectation of return, built up steam during the 90s. In 2004, Oprah Winfrey devoted an entire episode to the concept. People around the globe have embraced the concept, encouraging and recording these acts, movies like "Pay It Forward" and "Amelie" use the concept as their premise. Many schools have monthly "Random Acts of Kindness"' awards for students.

Africa