Category: April 27

  • NATIONAL GUMMI BEAR DAY – April 27

    NATIONAL GUMMI BEAR DAY 

    Gummi bears are a sweet treat that brings joy to people of all ages. On April 27, let’s celebrate National Gummi Bear Day and the memorable treat of childhood that’s timelessly fun.

    #NationalGummiBearDay

    Few treats are as cute and sweet as gummi bears. Fruity and fun, these colorful chews have been charming us since 1922. That’s right, the gummi bear is 100 years old! HARIBO® founder Hans Riegel started the company in 1920 from his home kitchen. Two years later he created the world’s first gummi bear. Today, they’re known as Goldbears® are an iconic treat all over the world.

    While chewing on that bit of information, remember gummi bears are also the perfect treat to share. The bite-sized pieces mean everyone can join the fun and celebrate National Gummi Bear Day together!

    A CHEWY CELEBRATION

    • Inspire joy in friends and family with the gift of gummi bears.
    • Share how and why gummi bears bring you joy.
    • Join the conversation by using #NationalGummiBearDay on social media.
    • Treat yourself and enjoy some gummi bears today!

    HISTORY OF NATIONAL GUMMI BEAR DAY

    HARIBO® founded National Gummi Bear Day to celebrate the 100-plus years of joy gummi bears have brought and continue to bring to people of all ages. Established in 1920, the company is a family-owned business with a century-long heritage. Founder Hans Riegel built HARIBO on a foundation of quality, while delivering moments of joy through its products. The name HARIBO is an acronym that contains the founder’s name and the city in which the company was born (Bonn, Germany): HAns RIegel BOnn. HARIBO is proud to continue making playful gummies that are meant to be shared so our inner child can always experience joy through this cute and sweet treat.

    The Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed National Gummi Bear Day to be observed on April 27, annually.

  • NATIONAL DEVIL DOG DAY – April 27

    NATIONAL DEVIL DOG DAY

    On April 27th, enjoy a treat in the name of National Devil Dog Day! The day honors the service members dubbed with the nickname and the devilish snack cake.

    #NationalDevilDogDay

    With a layer of cream filling sandwiched between two layers of devil’s food cake, Devil Dogs became a tasty single-serving treat in the mid-1920s. Drake’s first started making the cakes in 1926.

    During World War I, the legend goes that German soldiers took to calling U.S. Marines “devil dogs” for their tenacity. In 1918, a U.S. recruiting poster headlined with the phrase Teufel Hunden put the story into full circulation across the country. Although the German expression was rare and oddly worded, and its source blurry at best, the nickname took a firm hold.

    The underlying truth holds up. The U.S. Marines fought with fierce bravery in Europe as did all the troops. Sports teams adopted the name, poets wrote about the military prowess of the devil dogs, movies were made featuring the devil dogs, and the story of the name embellished or not became a part of history.

    They even inspired a devilish snack cake, we still enjoy today!

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL DEVIL DOG DAY

    National Devil Dog Day stirs up a taste for history, word origins, and snack cakes! Grab one or two and read up on the history of the Marines in World War I. Find out how they train their devil dogs today.  Use #NationalDevilDogDay to share on social media.

    NATIONAL DEVIL DOG DAY HISTORY

    Howard Leslie Sobel, the patriarch and grandfather, introduced Devil Dogs to the Sobel family. As a young boy, Sean Alexander Sobel looked forward to finding them in his grandparent’s cupboard. He would take one for him and one for his grandfather to eat together. It is now a family tradition. Sean Alexander Sobel founded National Devil Dog Day to share the history of Devil Dogs.

    In 2018, the Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed the day to be observed on April 27th, annually.

    Devil Dog FAQ

    Q. What is the motto of the U.S. Marine Corps?
    A. The U.S. Marine Corps motto is “Semper Fidelis” meaning “always faithful.”

    Q. What other nicknames do the Marine Corps have?
    A. The most familiar nicknames associated with the Marine Corps are Leatherneck and Jarhead. Leatherneck dates back to the Revolutionary War and references the leather stock service members wore around their necks. Jarhead developed around World War II and refers to the way a Marine looks when in dress blues; the high collar resembled a Mason jar.

    Q. Are there other days on the calendar that recognize the United States Marine?
    A. Yes. November 10th is the Marine Corps Birthday.

  • NATIONAL TEACH CHILDREN TO SAVE DAY – Changes Annually

    NATIONAL TEACH CHILDREN TO SAVE DAY

    Each year in April, National Teach Children to Save Day encourages children to develop good saving habits. 

    #TeachChildrenToSaveDay

    Bankers across the country volunteer every year to teach children to save. Developing these habits at a young age creates a foundation for a lifetime of saving. Involving our children with a savings plan, and money management skills prepare them for a solid future. Parents should teach children about financial matters so that when they head out into the world they avoid pitfalls that can be financially devastating. With an early start on saving and an understanding of budgeting their money, children will have solid habits as they head into adulthood. 

    The day offers tools and resources through events across the country.

    HOW TO OBSERVE TEACH CHILDREN TO SAVE DAY

    • Find an event near you.
    • You can also start projects at home that encourage your children to save.
    • Help your children develop the skills they will need for a lifetime. Try these tips to get started. 
      • Give each child a bank. It helps if the bank is clear so they can see their savings grow.
      • Open a savings account. They can monitor their account and watch it grow there, too.
      • Show them what things cost. When they want a new toy, direct them to their savings. Ask them to consider whether to toy is worth the amount they want to spend. If they still want to purchase the item, have the child pay. The act of paying with their own money will demonstrate to them the cost of the toy.
      • Demonstrate need versus want. Explain how our food, clothing, and shelter are necessities. However, we can live without going out to eat or buying a new television or the latest phone. Place the needs before the wants even in your daily shopping. 
    • Teach your children the value of money and how to save it. Use #TeachChildrenToSaveDay to post on social media.
    • Educators, visit the National Day Calendar® Classroom for a fun project to celebrate the day.

    NATIONAL TEACH CHILDREN TO SAVE DAY HISTORY

    Sponsored by the American Bankers Association, National Teach Children To Save Day has been helping young people since 1997 when the program started.  

    Saving FAQ

    Q. What age is best for a child to start learning to save?
    A. As soon as a child begins to understand numbers, they can begin to understand the basic concepts of saving. From there, begin building upon their understanding.

    Q. How can I show my child that we have to work for the things we buy?
    A. Let your child see what you do for a living. Show them that the work you do pays for the food, clothing, home, vacations, etc…

     

  • NATIONAL PRIME RIB DAY – April 27

    NATIONAL PRIME RIB DAY

    National Prime Rib Day annually recognizes this special meal favorite on April 27th each year. Sometimes known as the “King of Meats,” Prime Rib is a choice cut from one of the eight prime cuts of beef.

    #NationalPrimeRibDay

    A rubbed-on seasoned and then slow-roasted prime rib will give you a deliciously tender, tasty main course. Find many recipes and helpful “how to cook prime rib” guides on the internet for all to use. Some of the most common seasons used include garlic, salt, pepper, rosemary, onion, oregano, and thyme.

    Depending on your preference, you might choose to serve your prime rib with fresh vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, or Brussel sprouts. A variety of potatoes complement prime rib, too. Whether you like mashed, baked, or roasted potatoes, they will pair well with this hearty meal. Add a light salad or pasta dish, too. Don’t forget to serve your favorite wine or beer. Your guests will appreciate it. 

    Finish off the meal with a fruit-topped dessert. It’s definitely a meal worthy of a celebration!

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL PRIME RIB DAY

    • Celebrate at home or visit your favorite restaurant and be sure to invite others to join you.
    • We also have a recipe for you to try. Show off your prime rib skills. We know you have some!

    • Share your photos on social media using #NationalPrimeRibDay.

    NATIONAL PRIME RIB DAY HISTORY

    National Day Calendar continues to research the origins of this tasty holiday.

    Prime Rib FAQ

    Q. What is dry-aging?
    A. Dry-aging is a way to process large cuts of meat. The goal is to concentrate the flavor by drawing out the moisture. At the same time, enzymes break down the muscle to make the meat more tender. The process is achieved by placing the meat in a temperature and humidity-controlled room over several weeks. Another process is called wet-aging where smaller cuts of meat are vacuum sealed and stored at low temperatures. It takes less time than dry-aging.

    April 27th Celebrated History

    1865

    The worst maritime disaster in United States history occurred on the Mississippi River just north of Marion, Arkansas. Greater than the Titanic disaster, the Sultana steamboat exploded just weeks after the end of the Civil War and the assassination of President Lincoln. Overloaded with POWs returning to the North, over 1800 passengers perished.

    1937

    After premieres in Los Angeles and New York, A Star is Born opens across the United States. Starring Janet Gaynor and Fredric March, the film follows a young woman’s dream of Hollywood stardom. The film’s popularity lends itself to four remakes. The first, a television adaptation, starred Kathleen Crowley and Conrad Nagel. Then in 1954, crooner Judy Garland and James Mason put on performances that many consider to be unstoppable. Some even suggest that Garland’s performance is the best of her career. Then in 1976, Barbra Streisand and Kris Kristofferson take up the challenge. Garland, Mason, Streisand, and Kristofferson all won Golden Globes for their performances. The most recent version of a Star is Born came out in 2018 starring Grammy winner Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper. The film won the Grammy for Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media.

    1947

    In the House that Ruth Built, 58,339 fans turn out to honor an ailing Babe Ruth.

    April 27th Celebrated Birthdays

    Ulysses S. Grant – 1822

    The 18th president of the United States served as the commanding general of the Union Armies during the American Civil War. The youngest president the country had seen, his two terms from 1869 to 1877 placed him in charge of overseeing much of Reconstruction.

    W.H. Carothers – 1896

    W.H. Carothers invented nylon and neoprene. As a chemist, his contributions led to breakthroughs led to multiple versatile uses in industry and manufacturing.

    Betty Mae Tiger – 1923

    Betty Mae Tiger Jumper devoted her entire career to public service. As a nurse, she worked to improve the health and conditions in the Seminole community. In 1967, Tiger Jumper was elected the first woman tribal leader of the Florida Seminoles and the first woman to lead a federally recognized tribe. In 1971, she left office to carry on the publishing of the Seminole Tribune which Tiger Jumper launched in 1950.

    Coretta Scott King – 1927

    During the Civil Rights Movement, Coretta Scott King worked alongside Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Following his death, she earned a reputation as a leader in her own right.

  • NATIONAL TELL A STORY DAY – April 27

    NATIONAL TELL A STORY DAY

    National Tell a Story Day on April 27th each year in the United States encourages people of all ages to share stories. The stories can take many forms, too. You can read from a book or create one from your imagination. Stories recreated from childhood memory leave an indelible imprint on both the storyteller and the listener. No matter what story you tell, the day supports gathering with friends and family to share those stories.

    #NationalTellAStoryDay

    The ancient practice of storytelling handed down knowledge from one generation to the next. It is a wonderful way to pass on family traditions, histories, and long-told tales. It can also be entertaining as well as educational. Any good storyteller will tell you, some of the very best stories come from real-life experiences.

    When is World Story Telling Day

    The celebration encourages every generation to tell stories. That includes the youngest storytellers to most experienced. Gather grandparents and children together to swap tales. Pick a topic and let the tales spin. Bring favorite books or well-remembered fables to tell. Spending time telling stories with family, friends, and loved ones is a time for all to learn from each other, remember, and grow closer together.

    Besides creating a bonding environment, oral storytelling provides rich opportunities to reminisce. While connecting the past to our present, oral storytelling also fosters creativity. It encourages the use of imagination that lasts a lifetime.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL TELL A STORY DAY

    Libraries around the country participate in the day. They offer special storytelling times for children. Do you have a story to tell? It does not matter if the story is a short story or a long story, fiction or nonfiction, a tall tale or folklore. Seek the storytellers in your life and encourage them to regale you with stories. As you listen, record them in some way. This is a day for them all.

    • Tell a story. While you’re practicing your storytelling skills, try these tips to make your tales come to life:
      • Engage your audience. Invite them to participate, too!
      • Be sure to give your characters their own voice. Would Kermit the Frog or Daniel the Tiger be the same without their own voice?
      • Get physical! Body movements give your stories extra impact. You will capture your audience’s attention. You will also bring your story to life. 
      • Ask your audience questions. How will the main character get out of trouble? What will happen next? Who do you think did it? What would you do?
      • Use misdirection to surprise your audience. Sound effects, small magic tricks, and props all add elements of surprise to your stories.
      • Facial expressions punctuate your words. Use this powerful tool to drive a character’s emotion home.
    • Read a story aloud.
    • Ask others to join you in the storytelling adventure.
    • We encourage you to tell your stories and even share them on social media using #NationalTellAStoryDay.
    • Educators and families, visit the National Day Calendar® Classroom for lessons designed around National Tell a Story Day. 

    NATIONAL TELL A STORY DAY HISTORY

    National Day Calendar continues researching the origins of this storytelling day. 

    Storytelling FAQ

    Q. Do I just make up the story as I tell it?
    A. That’s one way to tell a story, and the best storytellers are very good at that. However, there are other methods for storytelling.

    • Memorize a short story and tell it in your own words.
    • Relate a story from your life. You know the details better than anyone, so who better to tell it than you!
    • Read a story aloud. Some of our favorite books come to life when read aloud.

    Q. Can anyone participate in the day?
    A. Yes! Everyone has a story to tell. Whether you write it down or speak it aloud, the stories we tell are a part of us and are worth telling. So, go tell a story!

     

  • NATIONAL BABE RUTH DAY – April 27

    NATIONAL BABE RUTH DAY

    On April 27, baseball fans worldwide honor one of baseball’s all-time greatest players on National Babe Ruth Day.  

    #NationalBabeRuthDay

    George Herman “Babe” Ruth, Jr., born on February 6, 1895, in Baltimore, Maryland, was nicknamed “the Bambino” and “the Sultan of Swat.” Spending 22 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB), he played for three teams from 1914 to 1935.

    Babe Ruth’s baseball career started as a pitcher for the Boston Red Sox. He became a full-time right-fielder when the New York Yankees bought his contract in 1919.  Being one of the league’s most prolific hitters, he helped the Yankees win seven pennants and four World Series titles.

    Ruth set career records during his career for home runs, slugging percentage, runs batted in, and on-base plus slugging. In 1927, he was the very first player to hit 60 home runs in one season.

    Following a short stint with the Boston Braves, Ruth retired in 1935. In 1936, the National Baseball Hall of Fame elected Ruth as one of the first five players to be inducted into the Hall.

    In 1946, after experiencing severe eye pain and difficulty swallowing, Babe Ruth was diagnosed with cancer. A year later on April 27, Ruth attended the newly proclaimed Babe Ruth Day and spoke briefly to a crowd of almost 60,000 people at Yankee Stadium.

    At the age of 53, on August 16, 1948, at 8:01 pm, Babe Ruth died in his sleep.  

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL BABE RUTH DAY

    Play a game of catch in the backyard. Go to the batting cages and try slugging a few Babe Ruth-style.

    • Buy some peanuts and Cracker Jacks and head out to the ball game!
    • Watch a Babe Ruth documentary or read up about this legendary baseball player.
    • When you do, be sure to invite someone to celebrate the day with you.
    • Use #NationalBabeRuthDay to share on social media.

    NATIONAL BABE RUTH DAY HISTORY

    New York City hosted the first National Babe Ruth Day on April 27, 1947, soon after Ruth’s cancer diagnosis. Ruth attended ceremonies at Yankee Stadium to 58,339 fans. In the House that Ruth Built, fans cheered as dignitaries surrounded the Bambino, including Francis Spellman, Commissioner A. B. Chandler, A.L. President Will Haridge, and N.L. President Ford Frick.

    While the Yankees lost 1-0 against the Washington Senators that day, they still took over first place in the standings against the Chicago White Sox. The White Sox dropped a doubleheader that day against the Browns.

    Babe Ruth FAQ

    Q. What were some of Babe Ruth’s nicknames?
    A. George “Babe” Ruth went by many names. Fans, reporters, and teammates were also big on alliteration, as you’ll see:

    • Babe
    • Sultan of Swat
    • Great Bambino
    • Colossus of Clout
    • Titan of Terror
    • Prince of Pounders
    • Wizard of Whack

    Q. What position did Babe Ruth play?
    A. He’s best known for playing outfield and pitching. However, early in his career he also played infield.

    Q When did Babe Ruth make his major league debut?
    A.Babe Ruth debuted in the majors on July 11, 1914, at Fenway Park.

    Q. Was Ruth left or right-handed?
    A. Ruth pitched and batted left-handed.

     

  • NATIONAL TAKE OUR DAUGHTERS AND SONS TO WORK DAY – Fourth Thursday in April

    NATIONAL TAKE OUR DAUGHTERS AND SONS TO WORK DAY

    Each year on the fourth Thursday in April, National Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Day encourages parents to take their children to work.

    #TakeOurChildrenToWorkDay

    This annual event is an educational program in the United States and Canada where parents take their children to work with them for one day. The day is designed to help children explore the workforce. It inspires children to see the different roles required to run a business or to build a project. They may find an interest in engineering, accounting, or art while spending the day with mom or day. Perhaps a child’s natural proclivity for order leads them into logistics someday. 

    Children are observant and curious. Bring them into your work world so they can explore careers and skills. Empower them to set goals and create a path to their dream career. 

    HOW TO OBSERVE TAKE OUR DAUGHTERS AND SONS TO WORK DAY

    • Share with your children what a day in your work life is like.
    • If you work from home create activities to simulate what your day might involve. Perhaps they can join you on a conference call.
    • Share with them the skills and education your job requires.
    • Describe the process for completing a project and how ideas are sparked.
    • Visit the Take Our Daughters and Sons to Work Foundation for more at-home project ideas and information.
    • Employers are encouraged to invite employees to bring their children to work. Share your story on social media using #TakeOurChildrenToWorkDay

    NATIONAL TAKE OUR DAUGHTERS AND SONS TO WORK DAY HISTORY

    Gloria Steinem and the MS Foundation for Women founded National Take Your Daughters and Sons to Work Day in 1993. It is the successor to Take Our Daughters to Work Day which, in 2003, expanded to include boys. Most companies allowed both girls and boys to participate from the beginning, renaming the day “Take Our Children to Work Day.”

    Take Our Children to Work FAQ

    Q. Do all employers participate in this event?
    A. No. Some settings don’t accommodate children in the workplace. It is either unsafe or difficult to allow children in the workplace.

    Q. Can children of any age attend an event like this?
    A. Some workplaces will set a minimum age. Employers may also create a special time span for children to visit. It’s important to follow your employer’s guidelines.

     
  • NATIONAL POEM IN YOUR POCKET DAY – Changes Annually

    NATIONAL POEM IN YOUR POCKET DAY

    During National Poetry Month in April, National Poem in Your Pocket Day shares the way poetry brings joy by simply carrying one in your pocket. When you share the poem, you’ll bring joy to others.

    #PoemInYourPocketDay or #PocketPoem

    There are so many different styles of poetry. This day, however, places no restrictions on the rhyme, rhythm, syllables, or length. The goal is to share a poem. You may scribble it on a receipt or recite one while waiting in line. Add a poem to the back of an envelope on outgoing mail. Don’t be surprised if you discover a poem tucked into a book. You might even find one jotted down on the side of your coffee cop on the tag of your teabag. 

    Poems come in so many different sizes, they can be squeezed onto a square of the calendar or jotted on the side of a pencil. We’re sure they’ll bring surprise and joy no matter where you find them. 

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL POEM IN YOUR POCKET DAY

    • Memorize a poem or two to share with the people you meet throughout the day.
    • Write a poem and put it in your pocket.
    • Give a shout-out to your favorite poet.
    • Print off these bookmarks and write a poem on the back. Put them in your pocket and you’ll be ready to surprise someone with a poem and gift!
    • It’s the perfect day to share your poem on Social Media using #PoemInYouPocketDay or #PocketPoem.

    NATIONAL POEM IN YOUR POCKET DAY HISTORY

    The observance has been celebrated as part of National Poetry Month since 2002.  The Office of the New York Mayor, along with the New York City Departments of Cultural Affairs and Education, initiated the annual city-wide Poem In Your Pocket Day. The Academy of American Poets took Poem In Your Pocket Day national in 2008.

    Poem FAQ

    Q. What is a poetry slam?
    A. A poetry slam is a poetry writing and performance competition. Individuals and teams write poems and perform them before an audience. Performances can be emotional, humorous, and powerful and often leave a memorable impression on the performer and the audience.

    Q. What types of poems tell a story?
    A. A narrative poem tells a story. Notable narrative poets include William Shakespeare, Edna St. Vincent Millay, Edgar Allan Poe, Robert Browning, and John Keats.