Category: April 26

  • STOP FOOD WASTE DAY – Last Wednesday in April

    STOP FOOD WASTE DAY

    Food waste worldwide is an alarming issue. That is why on the last Wednesday in April, Stop Food Waste Day raises awareness of the growing concern of food waste.

    #StopFoodWasteDay

    According to the USDA, Americans waste between 30-40 percent of the food supply. That is near or more than the worldwide estimate of 1/3 of the world’s consumable waste. Additionally, food waste occurs for many reasons all along the food chain.

    • Lack of workers to harvest
    • Quality expectations
    • Weather
    • Overproduction
    • Faulty equipment
    • Poor planning
    • Overbuying
    • Over preparing

    These are only a few reasons that add up to millions of tons of food waste. Stop Food Waste Day addresses all the factors and brings increased awareness to the world. The United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization estimates that nearly half of food waste happens before it even reaches the consumer. So, everyone along the food chain has a responsibility to help reduce it. That means, from farm to table and everywhere in between, we have work to do. Some of the solutions include:

    • Improved weather forecasts, so farmers know what to grow and when.
    • Improved storage facilities so that distributers and markets can preserve food longer.
    • Reduced production where possible.
    • An improved understanding of food quality and a loosening of those standards.
    • Preparing smaller meals.
    • Teaching consumers how to use leftovers in soups, casseroles, and stir-fries.
    • Learning how to preserve meals at home.
    • Begin composting the incidental waste to improve home production and commercial production.

    Food waste is everyone’s problem, whether we realize it or not. Join the movement to reduce food waste. Follow these tips for reducing food waste:

    At home:
    • Purchase and prepare only the amount of food you need to feed your family.
    • Discover new recipes that allow you to makeover leftovers.
    • Learn how to preserve food.
    • If you buy in bulk, consider donating excess to local shelters.
    • Understand the use by and best by dates.
    In your community or business:
    • Speak to your local grocers about changing their damaged fruit and vegetable policies. Those pristine-looking bins full of blemish-free fruits and vegetables shouldn’t be the standard anymore.
    • Shop farmer’s markets, local food stands, and food co-ops.
    • Create or participate in a donation program.
    • Promote neighborhood composting.
    • Educate your employees about best food practices.
    • Develop a partnership with area farmers and feed the animals.

    HOW TO OBSERVE STOP FOOD WASTE DAY

    • Share your tips and tricks to avoid food waste.
    • Try a new recipe that repurposes leftovers.
    • Give a shout-out to restaurants and businesses that use smart food practices.
    • Learn more about food waste, the causes, and how to prevent it.
    • Watch documentaries about food waste such as:
      • Just Eat It, directed by Grant Baldwin
      • Wasted! The Story of Food Waste, directed by Nari Kye and Anna Chai
      • Expired! Food Waste in America, directed by Rebecca Richman Cohen
    • Read about food waste in books like:
      • The Waste Not, Want Not Cookbook by Cinda Chavich
      • In Defense of Food: An Eater’s Manifesto by Michael Pollan
    • Join the conversation and use #StopFoodWasteDay on social media.

    STOP FOOD WASTE DAY HISTORY

    The Compass Group launched Stop Food Waste Day in 2017 to raise awareness about the growing worldwide food waste crisis. They promote the day of action while addressing some of the world community’s challenges regarding food production, hunger, and climate change.

    Food Waste FAQ

    Q. Can anyone participate in this day?
    A. Yes. Food waste is everywhere and taking steps to reduce and stop it falls on all our shoulders.

    Q. How can I stop food waste at home?
    A. Stopping food waste at home is easier than one might think. Try these steps to get started:

    • Shop for only what you need.
    • Plan meals around sales so you don’t overstock foods you won’t use.
    • Shop your pantry for meal planning.
    • Plan meals that freeze well. Leftovers can be used weeks later.
    • Begin composting and use the results in your garden and flower pots. You can also donate extra to local community gardens.
  • DENIM DAY – Changes Annually

    DENIM DAY 

    Each year in April, Denim Day raises awareness about all forms of sexual violence. Throughout the country and world, the day sets a standard of support for survivors and provides a foundation for solidarity through a simple message; there is no reason for sexual assault, not even the type of clothes a person wears.

    #DenimDay

    The statistics are staggering but the personal stories are more haunting. According to RAINN statistics, 1 in every 6 American women has been a victim of an attempted or completed rape in her lifetime. There is no reason for them to be victims – not their age, their clothes, or their status. A woman’s job, clothing, and socio-economic status are not an invitation to assault.

    The day calls for everyone to wear denim to show support for victims and survivors of sexual harassment, abuse, assault, and rape. College campuses, clinics, businesses, and organizations host educational events and fundraisers to increase awareness and change misconceptions.

    HOW TO OBSERVE DENIM DAY

    • Wear denim and support everyone’s right to wear the clothes they prefer.
    • You can also join a prevention and education campaign.
    • Donate to an organization that will help spread the message even further.
    • Volunteer to help the cause – domestic violence centers and hotlines require assistance.
    • Learn to become an advocate for change.
    • Start a conversation. During your discussion, share experiences.
    • Learn more by visiting www.denimdayinfo.org.
    • Use #DenimDay to share on social media.

    DENIM DAY HISTORY

    In 199, an Italian Parliament overturned a 1992 rape conviction based on the victim’s clothing. According to the decision, the woman was wearing tight jeans and therefore must have given consent. This decision led to protests in Italy where women wore jeans showing support for the victim.

    Since then, Peace Over Violence has sponsored Denim Day to raise awareness and eliminate sexual violence around the world.

    Denim FAQ

    Q. Who made the first denim?
    A. Nearly everyone wears denim these days. Whether in the form of jeans, jackets or skirts, it’s a popular fabric. However, the first denim was created by accident in 17th century France. The sturdy fabric was created by weavers in Nimes and at the time, textiles were named for the place that first made them. In this case, the fabric was called “serge de Nimes” and was later shortened to denim.

    Q. Are there different kinds of denim?
    A. Yes. Denim comes in various colors, durability, and weights.

  • NATIONAL SOUTH DAKOTA DAY – April 26

    NATIONAL SOUTH DAKOTA DAY

    On April 26, National South Dakota Day recognizes the 40th state to join the union. The state is bordered by six states including Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, Wyoming, Montana, and its northern cousin, North Dakota.

    #NationalSouthDakotaDay

    The Mount Rushmore State keeps its doors open all year round. After exploring the mountain, visitors can also enjoy Thomas Jefferson‘s vanilla ice cream while gazing at his likeness. And these sculptures are not the only ones South Dakota proudly displays, either. While there are several man-made displays, Wind Cave, the Missouri River, and the badlands remind us that mother nature still carves out her own.

    As part of the Corps of Discovery, Lewis and Clark established Fort Pierre in 1804. Yankton was named the territorial capital in 1861 when the Dakota Territory was organized. However, Pierre would later be named the state capital when South Dakota was granted statehood on November 2, 1889, along with North Dakota.

    The Black Hills of South Dakota hold tall tales, high trails, and deep valleys. From Deadwood to Sturgis and all points in between, the winding roads are breathtaking. Visit Spearfish Canyon for a hike or a relaxing drive.

    Split Rock Creek north of Sioux Falls provides rock faces for climbers looking for a challenge. After the test, relax by the rushing waters of Big Sioux River in Sioux Falls.

    The entire state is rich in history from corner to corner. The landscape changes dramatically from north to south with plenty of snow for skiers in winter and tons of sunshine in the summer.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL SOUTH DAKOTA DAY

    • Join National Day Calendar® as we explore the beautiful landscapes and rich history of South Dakota.
    • Take in the fantastic sculptures, breathtaking vistas, and legendary personalities.
    • Want to explore more? Check out these Five Must-See Places in South Dakota before planning your trip.
    • Share where you explore and use #NationalSouthDakotaDay to post on social media.

    Crazy Horse’s legendary leadership and commitment to tradition have been well documented throughout history. In 1877, he joined forces with Sitting Bull, defeating George Custer’s troops at the Battle of the Little Bighorn.
    Following the Battle of Little Big Horn, holy man and tribal leader Sitting Bull led his people to Canada, only to turn himself in four years later. He would tour with Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show, but the spiritual leader was dedicated to protecting the lands of the Sioux people.
    Former Purdue University basketball coach, Ward “Piggy” Lambert served up 29 fast-paced seasons. His energetic style scored a 371-152 record and earned him a place in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 1960.
    Inventor of the cyclotron, Ernest O. Lawrence received the 1939 Nobel prize in physics for his invention. A cyclotron is a type of particle accelerator. They have been responsible advancements in medicine and nuclear science.
    Myron Floren played accordion alongside bandleader Lawrence Welk for more than three decades. The “Happy Norwegian” played the upbeat “Champagne Music” and the polkas, too.
    Crime novelist, Joseph Hansen, is best known for his series featuring investigator Dave Brandstetter.
    Jess Thomas became a world-renowned opera tenor. He performed under the direction of Wieland Wagner, and some of his best-known roles were Lohengrin and Tristan, the Emperor in Die Frau ohne Schatten, Octavius Caesar in Samuel Barber’s Antony and Cleopatra.
    Historian, Elizabeth Cook-Lynn provides a body of work which includes collections of poetry, essays, fiction and historical non-fiction. Explore her poetry in I Remember the Fallen Trees: New and Selected Poems or visit the Missouri River during the 1960s by reading From the River’s Edge (2012).
    Major League Baseball coach and manager, Sparky Anderson led the National Leagues Cincinnati Reds to two championships in 1975 and 1976. In 1984, Anderson added a third title to his collection with the Detroit Tigers.
    From President Richard Nixon to President George W. Bush, Tom Brokaw reported the news. He started in college reporting on the radio and finished with the NBC Nightly News in 2004.
    Marlo Anderson, founder of National Day Calendar, is also known as the Guru of Geek. He is a technology talk show host, co-founder of Zoovio, Inc. and, Awesome 2 Products.
    January Jones currently plays the role of Melissa in The Last Man on Earth. Her career in the last decade has been busy between television and film roles. In 2010 she earned a Screen Actors Guild Award for her role as Emma Frost in Mad Men.
    Chad Greenway played 11 seasons with the Minnesota Vikings. As a linebacker, he was a two-time Probowler and a 2015 NFL Man of the Year.
    Wall Drug – Wall

    Mammoth Site – Hot Springs

    Sioux Falls Michelangelos – Sioux Falls

    World’s Largest Pheasant – Huron

    Corn Palace – Mitchell

    Shakespeare Garden – Wessington Springs

    Photo by Marcus Wright on Unsplash
  • NATIONAL DISSERTATION DAY – April 26

    NATIONAL DISSERTATION DAY

    National Dissertation Day on April 26th creates an annual reminder to continuing education students to maintain their focus and complete the pinnacle of their education.

    #NationalDissertationDay

    The first doctoral degree was awarded in Paris in the mid-12th century. The doctorate of philosophy was conceived in Germany some 500 years later and is the direct precursor to the modern Ph.D. Today, universities in the U.S. award multiple research-based doctoral degrees. Many of those degrees are specific to a discipline of study. For example, the D.B.A (business), Ed.D. (education), D.N.P. (nursing), and Psy.D. (psychology) are all quite popular among professionals in industry, business, and private practice as opposed to traditional academia.

    However, one thing these degree programs all have in common is the doctoral dissertation. Born of the master-apprentice relationship of the medieval trade guilds, the dissertation is the masterpiece of the doctoral process. To graduate, every doctoral student must complete an independent research project and write a dissertation – a book-length paper detailing every aspect of the project.

    Each year in the U.S., over 50,000 people earn their doctoral degrees, successfully completing the grueling dissertation process. However, only about 50% of those who enroll in doctoral programs ever graduate. Meanwhile, that leaves another 50,000 students each year who withdraw from their doctoral programs without finishing their dissertations.

    Tuition for most doctoral programs across the country exceeds $20,000 per year and can be significantly higher. Students spend 5-7 years pursuing their doctoral degrees, and often much more. Additionally, the money spent on tuition pales in comparison to the costs associated with postponing the increased earning potential enjoyed by doctoral graduates. Individuals with their doctoral degrees typically earn at least $20,000 more per year than those with their master’s degree.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL DISSERTATION DAY

    If you’re a doctoral student approaching the dissertation phase of your program, use National Dissertation Day as an opportunity to develop a mindful approach to the dissertation process. Then you can graduate and make your impact on the world as soon as possible.

    If you’re a doctoral candidate stuck on your dissertation journey, National Dissertation Day is the perfect day to eliminate any bad habits you’ve developed. Put your dissertation back on track with a few adjustments.

    And, finally, if you know a struggling doctoral student, ask them how they’re celebrating National Dissertation Day. It could be just the push they need to develop a mindful attitude toward their dissertation and help them leave the confusion, stress, and frustration of the dissertation process behind as soon as possible.

    Use #NationalDissertationDay to share on social media.

    NATIONAL DISSERTATION DAY HISTORY

    In 2018, Dr. Russell Strickland, founder of Dissertation Done, LLC, created National Dissertation Day as a way to highlight the importance of adopting a professional, even mercenary, approach to completing one’s dissertation. With each year in the dissertation process costing a student $40,000 or more in real dollars, it’s hard to rationalize delaying graduation for 2, 3, or more years by wasting time on the dissertation. 

    The Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed National Dissertation Day to be observed annually on April 26.

  • NATIONAL HELP A HORSE DAY – April 26

    NATIONAL HELP A HORSE DAY

    National Help a Horse Day on April 26th each year encourages horse lovers and advocates to join forces and protect abused and neglected horses. The day raises awareness of the need for horse sanctuaries and rescues. 

    #NationalHelpAHorseDay

    In the United States, the horse holds legendary status. Despite that, many go unwanted, abused, or neglected. This day strives to address those issues by drawing attention to several organizations that support horse rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption. Their programs offer shelter and veterinary care for horses that have been neglected or abused. Many of them provide a sanctuary where the horses live out the remainder of their lives. Once rehabilitated, many of the horses become available for adoption. 

    However, horses require specialized and costly care. These dedicated organizations do not run on love alone. They require funding that comes in the form of monetary donations, volunteers, and in-kind donations. Through National Help A Horse Day, increased awareness of these organizations’ needs will further help more horses.

    With over 200 breeds, these spirited animals give humans much to love. Their loyalty and devotion throughout history may only be a portion of the reasons to help and love them. Not just a means of transportation, horses cleared fields, fought wars, and moved cattle. Beyond their utility, their companionship was indispensable long lonely trails. Cattlemen, pioneers, and more recognize horses as cornerstones of survival in a burgeoning nation.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL HELP A HORSE DAY

    Equine rescues and sanctuaries across the country hold events celebrating the horse. The events raise awareness and advocate for abused and neglected horses across the country. Support a horse rescue near you. Volunteer or donate to the cause. If you’re able to adopt or foster a horse, visit a rescue and find out more. Visit the ASPCA to get involved. They offer resources and events to help you actively contribute to a horses’ life. 

    Use #NationalHelpAHorseDay to post on social media.

    NATIONAL HELP A HORSE DAY HISTORY

    American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals founded National Help a Horse Day to bring awareness and promote the prevention of abandoned, neglected, and abused horses across the country.

    Horse FAQ

    Q. How many bones does a horse have?
    A. Most horses have 205 bones.

    Q. What is the world’s largest horse breed?
    A. The world’s largest horse breed is the Shire. It ranges in height from 17-19 hands and is muscular and powerful horse. The largest Shire to ever live was Mammoth. Also known as Sampson, he was born in 1848 and reached 21.25 hands.

    Q. What is the world’s smallest horse breed?
    A. The Falabella is one of the smallest horse breeds measuring up to 8.5 hands.

    April 26th Celebrated History

    1892

    The United States Patent Office issued patent no. 473,653 to Sarah Boone for her invention of an ironing board. While not the first, her unique, padded design was curved to make ironing sleeves easier.

    1941

    If organ music and baseball games go together like kids and candy, then you can thank the Chicago Cubs. During their home game against the St. Louis Cardinals, an organ player filled Wrigley Field with music before the game. While it may have been entertaining, the warm-up music seemed to have benefited the Cardinals as they took home the win 8-5.

    1986

    One of Chernobyl’s four reactors at its nuclear plant in Pripet, Russia exploded.

    April 26th Celebrated Birthdays

    John James Audubon – 1785

    The American ornithologist, naturalist, and artist is known as the founding father of American birding. His works inspired the organization of the National Audubon Society, dedicated to the conservation and preservation birds and the habitats where they live.

    Frederick Law Olmsted – 1822

    Frederick Law Olmsted designed and preserved numerous grand parks and green spaces across the United States and is considered the father of landscape architecture. With an artist’s eye, he created spaces where neighborhoods and entire communities continue to relax and enjoy today.  Not only have they stood the test of time, but the urban spaces have also flourished. Olmsted also impacted natural spaces, believing strongly places like Yosemite Valley and Niagra Falls should be preserved for their beauty and never be held privately.

    Gertrude “Ma” Rainey – 1886

    The Mother of Blues beguiled audiences with songs like “I Ain’t Got Nobody” and “A Good Man is Hard to Find.”

    Charles Richter – 1900

    Richter was an American seismologist and physicist most famous as the inventor of the Richter magnitude scale, which quantified the size of earthquakes. 

    Melania Trump – 1970

    The 27th First Lady of the United States was born in Novo Mesto, Slovenia, making her the second First Lady born outside the United States. In 2006, Lady Trump became a naturalized citizen. She focused on improving children’s lives with her Be Best program during her time as First Lady.

  • NATIONAL LIBRARY OUTREACH DAY – Wednesday of National Library Week

    NATIONAL LIBRARY OUTREACH DAY

    National Library Outreach Day (formerly known as National Bookmobile Day) in April recognizes the dedicated library staff who make libraries accessible to everyone wherever they are. Services range from mobile access to information and resources through bookmobiles to pop-up services throughout the community. These professionals diligently work to provide these services and to improve and increase service year after year. For more than 100 years, bookmobiles have been bringing library access to those who might otherwise go without them.

    #NationalBookmobileDay

    Bookmobiles are mobile libraries designed to travel from neighborhood to neighborhood. They hold a variety of books and periodicals and usually run on a schedule. Many have computer access, too. Librarians check out books much like at a local library. Books can be returned at the next scheduled stop or at the associated library. But this service is just the tip of the iceberg where outreach services are concerned. Other outreach services include:

    • Library open houses
    • Author talks and readings
    • Student events
    • Partnerships with schools
    • Presentations and projects

    Libraries are constantly changing and their outreach services do too, fitting the needs of the community. They work in every kind of library often supporting underserved populations.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL BOOKMOBILE DAY

    • Utilize your local bookmobile.
    • Learn their schedules and make sure you have your library card at the ready.
    • Check out your library’s outreach services. What is on the schedule this month?
    • Attend a library event.
    • Thank an outreach librarian for their hard work.
    • Share what you like about your local library’s services using #NationalBookmobileDay to post on social media.

    NATIONAL BOOKMOBILE DAY HISTORY

    The American Library Association, the Association of Bookmobile and Outreach service, and the Association of Rural and Small Libraries coordinated National Bookmobile Day as part of National Library Week. In 2021, their focus was changed to National Library Outreach Day incorporating all the outreach services libraries provide.  

    Bookmobile FAQ

    Q. How old are bookmobiles?
    A. The first mobile libraries were horse-drawn carriages that brought books and other reading materials to people in the United Kingdom. In the United States, mobile libraries began appearing during the early 1900s.

    Q. How do I find out if a bookmobile comes to my community or neighborhood?
    A. Contact your local library for information on bookmobile schedules in your area.

  • NATIONAL PRETZEL DAY – April 26

    NATIONAL PRETZEL DAY

    National Pretzel Day on April 26th recognizes one of America’s favorite snacks.  A bag of nice crunchy, salty pretzels or a big, warm, soft, cinnamon pretzel is the question of the day.  Either one is an excellent choice.

    #NationalPretzelDay

    There are a few different accounts of the origin of the pretzel.  Most people agree that it does have a Christian background, and they were developed by the monks.  According to The History of Science and Technology, in 610 AD, “an Italian monk invents pretzels as a reward to children who learn their prayers.  He calls the strips of baked dough, folded to resemble arms crossing the chest, pretiola (little rewards).”

    Another source puts the invention in a monastery in southern France. The looped pretzel may also be related to a Greek Ring bread from the communion bread used in monasteries a thousand years ago.  In the Catholic Church, pretzels had a religious significance for both ingredients and shape. The loops in pretzels may have served a practical purpose; bakers could hang them on sticks, projecting upwards from a central column, as shown in Job Berckheyde’s (1681) painting.

    The Pennsylvania Dutch immigrants introduced pretzels to North America in the 19th century.  At this time, many handmade pretzel bakeries populated central Pennsylvania, and their popularity quickly spread. In the 20th century, soft pretzels became very popular in areas such as Philadelphia, Chicago, and New York. 

    More Pretzel Facts
    • Today, the average Philadelphian consumes about twelve times as many pretzels as the national average.
    • Pennsylvania is the center of American pretzel production for both hard and soft pretzels, producing 80% of the nation’s pretzels.
    • The annual United States pretzel industry is worth over $550 million.
    • The average American consumes about 1.5 pounds of pretzels per year.
    • Philadelphia opened a privately run “Pretzel Museum” in 1993.
    • Hard pretzels originated in the United States in 1850.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL PRETZEL DAY

    • Enjoy some pretzels.
    • Try making your own with this soft pretzel recipe.
    • Give a shout-out to your favorite pretzel maker.
    • Use #NationalPretzelDay to post on social media.
    • Share and enjoy this yummy beer cheese dip from @HolidayFoodies on the side.

    Beer and Pretzel socksSink your toes into a warm, toasty pair of socks for National Pretzel Day! We have just what you’re looking for in our store.

    NATIONAL PRETZEL DAY HISTORY

    National Pretzel Day began in 2003 when Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell declared April 26th “National Pretzel Day” to acknowledge the importance of the pretzel to the state’s history and economy.

    Pretzel FAQ

    Q. What flavors go well with pretzels?
    A. Pretzels are amazingly versatile. They go well with cheese, chocolate, marinara, peanut butter, etc.

    Q. Who holds the record for the world’s largest pretzel?
    A. According to Guinness World Records, Pilsener, Industria La Constancia in El Salvador created the world’s largest pretzel in 2015. The pretzel weighed 1,728 pounds (783.81 kilograms).

     

  • NATIONAL KIDS AND PETS DAY – April 26

    NATIONAL KIDS AND PETS DAY

    National Kids and Pets Day on April 26th raises awareness of the importance of picking the right pet for children at the right time. It’s an important decision that can lead to a lifetime of bonding between pet and child.

    #NationalKidsAndPetsDay

    The day also celebrates the bonds children and pets can share and a day to remember safety where our pets and children are concerned. There are many benefits of having a pet in a child’s life. From fostering natural nurturing abilities to developing responsibilities, pets have a lifelong impact on a child’s development.

    It is also important to remember that small children as well as the pets may not know their limitations and should not be left alone with each other. They should always be supervised to prevent injury to both the child and the animal.

    Even though dogs and cats are some of the most beloved pets in the United States, pet homelessness is a huge problem in the country. There are about 70 million stray animals in the United States. Up to 8 million of these animals end up in shelters. There are 3,500 animal shelters in the country. It’s at these animal shelters that pets receive a second chance. According to the ASPCA, over 3 million shelter animals are adopted each year.

    No matter the breed, size, or demeanor of the human, or, canine, the shelter will take the time to find the right home for their animals. They schedule visits and have procedures in place to promote healthy adoptions for families and individuals. While some dogs have experienced injury or illness, the shelters work with veterinarians to heal the animals before making them available for adoption.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL KIDS AND PETS DAY

    My Kids Have PawsShow your pride for your pawsome pets and kids with a pair of socks. Check out our complete selection in our store, here.

    NATIONAL KIDS AND PETS DAY HISTORY

    In 2005, Colleen Paige, Celebrity Family and Pet Lifestyle Expert, founded National Kids and Pets Day.  

    Kids and Pets FAQ

    Q. My 10-year-old wants to get a pet. Is one pet better than another?
    A. The right pet for your family may not be the right pet for the next family. It’s important to analyze the amount of time, space, and energy your family has to invest in a pet. Dogs require more attention than cats and cats require more attention than fish. But all of them need proper care, though they may be different kinds of care. Sit down with your 10-year-old and talk about the kinds of care required for the animal she’s interested in getting. Have her help a friend or neighbor care for their pets or ask her to volunteer to bring the class guinea pig home for the weekend. Volunteering at a local animal shelter will give your child hands-on experience caring for cats, dogs, and sometimes more exotic animals.

    Q. Do dogs and cats get along?
    A. Some do. When they’ve been raised together, they’re likely to learn to accept each other sooner than older animals that have just been introduced.

     

  • NATIONAL RICHTER SCALE DAY – April 26

    NATIONAL RICHTER SCALE DAY

    National Richter Scale Day on April 26th each year honors the birth of the Richter Scale inventor, Charles F. Richter (April 26, 1900 – September 30, 1985).

    #NationalRichterScaleDay

    Richter was an American seismologist and physicist most famous as the inventor of the Richter magnitude scale, which quantified the size of earthquakes. While working at the California Institute of Technology, with Beno Gutenberg, Richter first used the scale in 1935.

    After publishing the Richter Scale in 1935, it immediately became the standard measure of earthquake intensity. Since 1935, there have been other magnitude scales developed. Depending on the data available, different scales are used. However, most are not as popularly known as Richter Scale.

    The United States Geological Service records show that the most significant earthquake since 1900, was in Chile in May 1960. Measuring 9.5 on the Richter Scale, it is known as the Great Chilean Earthquake. 

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL RICHTER SCALE DAY

    Learn more about earthquake activity. Watch a documentary or read a book about Charles F. Richter and his invention. You can also explore the history of the world’s largest earthquakes

    Use #NationalRichterScaleDay to post on social media.

    NATIONAL RICHTER SCALE DAY HISTORY

    Although the day commemorates the birth of Charles F. Richter, National Day Calendar continues researching the founders of this seismic holiday.

    Richter Scale FAQ

    Q. What is the worst earthquake on record?
    A. In terms of magnitude, the powerful Valdivia, Chile earthquake in 1960 registered 9.5 on the Richter scale.

    However, in terms of the amount of destruction and lives lost, the 1952 Kamchatka, Russia earthquake is one of the most devastating. The earthquake and the tsunami that followed caused an estimated 15,000 deaths. It registered 9.0 on the Richter scale.

    Another destructive earthquake took place in 2011 in Tohoku, Japan. Beyond the destruction of infrastructure, 15,894 deaths are attributed to the earthquake. It measured 9.1 on the Richter scale.

    Q. Do all earthquakes create tsunamis?
    A. No. However, the more powerful an earthquake is the more likely a tsunami will occur.

     

  • NATIONAL AUDUBON DAY – April 26

    NATIONAL AUDUBON DAY

    On April 26th each year, National Audubon Day honors the birth of John James Audubon (April 26, 1785 – January 27, 1851).

    #NationalAudubonDay

    Audubon was a French-American ornithologist, naturalist, and painter noted for his extensive studies of American birds and his detailed illustrations of the birds in their natural habitats. Audubon’s greatest work was The Birds of America which is considered one of the finest ornithological works ever completed. His work in this book contains more than 700 North American bird species with 435 hand-colored, life-size prints of 497 bird species.

    Spring is an excellent time to observe the birds John Audubon described and painted. As they migrate across the country, set out feeders to welcome them along their journey. Watch them from your window or while strolling on a path.

    According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, at last count approximately 45 million people watch birds. They bird watch while they travel or all year long from their homes. Many trek around the country to see a bird for the first time in its natural habitat. So can you. Learn about their habitats and migration patterns. Or simply watch them for their color and song. 

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL AUDUBON DAY

    • Grab the binoculars, and the bird book, and see how many birds you can identify.
    • Join local bird-watching groups for tips and ideas.
    • Download and print the Bird Bingo game and play while you watch.
    • Use #NationalAudubonDay or #Audubon Day to post on social media.

    NATIONAL AUDUBON DAY HISTORY

    The National Audubon Society sponsors National Audubon Day.  

    Audubon FAQ

    Q. What is an ornithologist?
    A. An ornithologist studies birds.

    Q. How can I attract birds to my home?
    A. Plant native plants and trees. Also, include a water source such as a birdbath or fountain. These steps provide habitat and a food source for birds.