Category: April 04

  • NATIONAL VITAMIN C DAY – April 4

    NATIONAL VITAMIN C DAY

    National Vitamin C Day on April 4th each year shares all the ways vitamin C nurtures and benefits our health, inside and out!

    #VitaminCDay

    While Vitamin C is widely recognized for warding off colds, the vitamin is also clinically proven to be a powerhouse in other areas of health, too. For example, Vitamin C may reduce blood pressure and potentially lower the risk of heart disease. Those at risk of gout can lower that risk by increasing their intake of Vitamin C.

    Topically, Vitamin C keeps skin healthy by protecting it from oxidative damage caused by daily exposure to light, heat, and pollution. The popularity of topical vitamin C products has risen dramatically.

    With the right product, adding Vitamin C to your beauty regimen can brighten your skin, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy collagen production. Vitamin C brightens just about any health routine.

    HOW TO OBSERVE VITAMIN C DAY

    Learn more about why vitamin C is essential for skin health – find the right vitamin C serum for you. Share your experiences using vitamin C in your daily regime. How has it benefited you?

    Discover more with #vitaminCday on social media.

    NATIONAL VITAMIN C DAY HISTORY

    SkinCeuticals founded National Vitamin C Day in 2019 to celebrate this research and the proven benefits of vitamin C.

    The research of Dr. Sheldon Pinnell, founding scientist of SkinCeuticals, established the parameters for effective vitamin C antioxidant delivery to the skin, allowing SkinCeuticals to pioneer the emergence of cosmeceuticals.

    The Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed the day to be observed on April 4th annually.

    Vitamin C FAQ

    Q. What is another name for vitamin C?
    A. Vitamin C is also known as L-ascorbic acid.

    Q. What foods have the most vitamin C?
    A. It might surprise you to know that citrus fruits, while high in vitamin c, are not the foods with the most. Oranges contain approximately 70 mg of vitamin C. These foods contain even more:

    • Rosehips – 119 mg
    • Red bell pepper – 95 mg
    • Guava – 126 mg
    • Papaya – 96 mg
    • Chili Pepper – 109 mg

    April 4th Celebrated History

    1841

    President William Henry Harrison dies 31 days into office and becomes the first president to die in office. He was also the shortest service president. The 9th president’s death also ushered in the first vice president to succeed a president due to death – Harrison’s running mate John Tyler.

    1887

    The people of Argonia, Kansas, elected Susanna Salter as their mayor. Her name was placed on the ballot as a prank against the opposition, but it backfired. Salter was the first woman elected as mayor in the United States and had more than just a little understanding of politics. She was also a member of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union and set into practice her teetotaler ways. That same year, she also gave birth to a son.

    1932

    The nutritionist Charles Glen King isolates vitamin C while conducting a study at the University of Pittsburgh. Though Hungarian biochemist Szent-Gyorgyi earned a Nobel Prize in 1937 for isolating the vitamin first, many believe King deserves recognition for his work.

    1968

    The civil rights activist and clergyman, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. dies when assassin James Earl Ray murders him in Memphis, Tennessee. King has arrived to support other Southern Christian Leadership Conference leaders during a sanitation workers’ strike when Ray ended the nonviolent Civil Rights leader’s life.

    April 4th Celebrated Birthdays

    Dorthea Dix – 1802

    Dorothea Dix advocated for improved conditions for the mentally ill and expanded public hospital care throughout her career. She also lobbied extensively for reform, taught and published several textbooks, fiction, and poetry.

    Linus Yale – 1821

    In 1868, the American mechanical engineer co-founded the Yale Lock Manufacturing Company in Stamford Connecticut with Henry R. Towne.

    Mary Colter – 1869

    During her career with the Fred Harvey Company, the American architect designed several landmark buildings for the National Park Service at the Grand Canyon. Since Colter drew much of her inspiration from the landscape, projects like the Hermits Rest and Desert View Watchtower compliment the area surrounding them.

    Arthur Murray – 1895

    The once shy teenager became a household name after opening a chain of dance schools. In 1925, Murray opened his first dance studio with his wife Kathryn. By 1938, the Arthur Murray Dance Studio franchise was soon teaching students of all ages.

    Muddy Waters – 1915

    Born McKinley Morganfield, the influential blues artist brought an electric sound to the music scene. Though slow to take off, when it did, Muddy Waters earned international recognition and numerous awards, including six Grammys during his lifetime.

    Gil Hodges – 1924

    Gil Hodges’ professional baseball career was interrupted by the bombing of Pearl Harbor. At the time he had signed with the Brooklyn Dodgers. For the duration of the war, he served in the U.S. Navy. Afterward, he returned to the home of the Dodgers to take up first base and go on to be a major hitter for the team.

    Maya Angelou – 1928

    Poet laureate Maya Angelou is recognized for her poetry and her memoir I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. She earned numerous awards including the Presidential Medal of Freedom and three Grammy Awards for Best Spoken Word Album. Among her many other talents, the best-selling author was also a screenwriter and civil rights activist.

    Mildred Fay Jefferson – 1926

    In 1951, Dr. Mildred Jefferson became the first African American to receive a medical degree from Harvard Medical School. Despite at least 100 years of trying, women were not admitted to Harvard Medical School until 1947.

    Robert Downey, Jr. – 1965

    Considered part of the Brat Pack of the 1980s, the American actor returned to the film industry in the 2000s after facing addiction issues. The results have been blockbuster Marvel series and stellar performances in movies such as Soloist, Dr. Doolittle and Sherlock Holmes.

    Notable Mentions

    Thaddeus Stevens – 1792
    Isaac Hathaway – 1874
    Yamamoto Isoroku – 1884
    Tris Speaker – 1888
    Marguerite Duras – 1914
    Heath Ledger – 1979

  • JEEP 4X4 DAY – April 4

    JEEP 4X4 DAY

    On 4/4, Jeep 4×4 Day launches us into adventure! Celebrate the excitement of discovery while venturing out in the open air.

    #Jeep4x4Day

    Fresh air and warmer temperatures lure us outdoors, and what better way to experience the thrill of an excursion than in a Jeep 4×4. Whether it’s up rocky slopes or through muddy trails, Jeep vehicles let you take the adventure to a whole new level.

    Crossing creeks, touring valleys, and maneuvering through rocky terrain are just part of the trek. You can see lost history and beautiful vistas in a Jeep brand vehicle. Get away with friends for the day or take off for a week by yourself to refuel. This celebration reminds us that every day was meant for adventure!

    HOW TO OBSERVE JEEP 4X4 DAY

    • Get into your 4×4 and get out there.
    • Plan a 4×4 trip. Whether a day trip or an entire tour, find one that fits your lifestyle.
    • Share your experiences in a 4×4.
    • Invite friends and family to join you on an adventure.
    • Explore the world beyond your front door and use #Jeep4x4Day to share on social media.

    NATIONAL JEEP 4X4 DAY HISTORY

    The Jeep brand founded Jeep 4×4 Day to celebrate adventure-seeking in a Jeep brand 4×4.  

    The Registrar at National Day Calendar® declared the first observance to take place in 2016 and annually thereafter.  

    Jeep is a registered trademark of FCA US LLC.

    Jeep FAQ

    Q. What was the first Jeep?
    A. Willys-Overland produced the first jeep prototype called a “Quad” in 1940. The U.S. Army had requested a light reconnaissance vehicle in anticipation of World War II.

    Q. When did the Jeep become available commercially?
    A. The first Jeep made available to the civilian population was the CJ-2A which was marketed to farmers.

    Q. Is Jeep an acronym?
    A. No. The word “Jeep” comes from the acronym for General Purpose vehicles. When you say “GP” quickly, it sounds like “Jeep”.

  • SAAM DAY OF ACTION – First Tuesday in April

    SAAM DAY OF ACTION

    Each year on the First Tuesday in April, Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM) Day of Action provides a day to focus awareness on sexual violence prevention. Nationally recognized in the United States and observed annually as part of Sexual Assault Awareness Month (SAAM), SAAM Day of Action provides tools and resources throughout the campaign. 

    #SAAMDayOfAction

    The day aims to stop sexual assault, harassment, and abuse before they happen through education. Teaching about consent and understanding boundaries is important, but requires a societal change, too. Currently, the stigma of sexual assault rests with the victims. Until that view changes, sexual assault will continue to go unpunished.

    Through social media campaigns, events and more, the day promotes valuable resources to help change the societal view. The day also provides ways to support victims throughout the month and beyond. 

    HOW TO OBSERVE SAAM DAY OF ACTION

    • Show your support by sharing social media posts on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
    • Learn about consent and how it works.
    • Attend or register for an event.
    • Use #SAAMDayOfAction to post on social media.

    SAAM DAY OF ACTION HISTORY

    Since 2004, the National Sexual Violence Resource Center has promoted a day dedicated to ending sexual violence against women. Their campaign is ongoing. For more information visit www.nsvrc.org.

    SAAM FAQ

    Q. Is there a number where I can call if I need help?
    A. Yes. The free and confidential hotline is 800-656-4673.

    Q. Who is at risk of sexual assault?
    A. Anyone can be sexually assaulted but women are nine times more likely to experience rape than men according to rainn.org.

     

  • NATIONAL CHICKEN CORDON BLEU DAY – April 4

    NATIONAL CHICKEN CORDON BLEU DAY

    Each year on April 4th, National Chicken Cordon Bleu Day celebrates a blue ribbon dish that combines chicken, ham, and cheese.

    #ChickenCordonBleuDay

    The French term Cordon Bleu translates to “Blue Ribbon.” This dish is a take on the popular Veal Cordon Bleu. It is a flattened chicken breast that is wrapped around ham (or sometimes prosciutto or Canadian bacon) and cheese such as Swiss or Gruyere. Toothpicks hold the chicken together before being dipped in an egg wash and breaded.

    The earliest recipe we were able to find was in a March 1964 printing of the Cincinnati Enquirer by the Cincinnati Gourmet Stanley Demos. Despite some misconceptions, it is an American dish. Demos mentions in his column that he got the idea to try chicken instead of veal “to be different.” It has been a popular dish since.

    HOW TO OBSERVE CHICKEN CORDON BLEU DAY

    • Make chicken cordon bleu or a variation on the theme. Several recipes offer lighter varieties, too.
    • Share your favorite recipe for this creative chicken dish.
    • We also found a recipe for you to try in your home kitchen.
    • Order chicken cordon bleu at your favorite restaurant.
    • Use #ChickenCordonBleuDay to post on social media.

    NATIONAL CHICKEN CORDON BLEU DAY HISTORY

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

    Chicken Cordon Bleu FAQ

    Q. How do you flatten the chicken for chicken cordon bleu?
    A. Cooks use a kitchen mallet (also known as a meat tenderizer) to flatten meat.

    Q. Is chicken cordon bleu the main dish?
    A. Yes. Though variations on the recipes create appetizers with similar ingredients.

     

  • NATIONAL SCHOOL LIBRARIAN DAY – April 4

    NATIONAL SCHOOL LIBRARIAN DAY

    On April 4th each year, National School Librarian Day recognizes the professionals who keep the school library in working order. School librarians spend long hours keeping the library organized. They are also dedicated to helping our children find the resources they need to keep learning. School librarians are the people who create an environment where students can learn every day of the year. Their work is an impressive accomplishment.

    #NationalSchoolLibrarianDay

    The school librarians provide guidance and expose our youth not only to texts, print media, and literature but to digital resources and technology, too. These resources also connect them to libraries around the world. A school librarian’s ability to manage scores of media and a school full of students with numerous projects and schedules astounds us.  

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL SCHOOL LIBRARIAN DAY

    • Remember the school librarian on this day. Take a little gift or a card and tell them “Thank You!”
    • We’ve created a postcard just for the occasion. Download and print it on cardstock. Make sure your printer settings are set to print on both sides of the paper. The cards are 5.5 x 4.25 inches. Then color and mail the postcard to your librarian and let them know how much you appreciate them.
    • Share your experiences as a school librarian.
    • Learn more about the history of libraries and those who work in them.
    • Use #SchoolLibrarianDay to post on social media.

    NATIONAL SCHOOL LIBRARIAN DAY HISTORY

    National Day Calendar continues to research the origins of this school holiday. However, librarians and school librarians have been celebrated for decades. School districts or individual schools often launched celebrations recognizing their librarians. These celebrations took place at different times throughout the school year. It wasn’t until more recent decades that the practice took place during Library Week or other reading-related celebrations. 

    Librarian FAQ

    Q. Besides school libraries, where do librarians work?
    A. Librarians work in many types of libraries. Some of them include:

    • Public libraries
    • Government libraries
    • Law libraries
    • Academic libraries
    • Military libraries
    • Museum libraries

    Q. Where is the world’s largest library?
    A. The world’s largest library is the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.

    Q. Who was the first Librarian of Congress?
    A. John Beckley served as the first Librarian of Congress from 1802-1807. President Thomas Jefferson appointed Beckley to the position.

     

  • NATIONAL HUG A NEWSPERSON DAY – April 4

    NATIONAL HUG A NEWSPERSON DAY

    National Hug a Newsperson Day (formerly National Hug a Newsman Day) on April 4th encourages appreciation for the people reporting the news.  

    #HugANewspersonDay

    The Merriam-Webster dictionary tells us that the word “newsman” dates back to 1596. They have been working hard for many years to bring us the news from around the world.

    A few well-known newspersons include:

    • Tom Brokaw
    • Barbara Walters
    • David Brinkley
    • Katie Couric
    • Walter Cronkite
    • Ann Curry
    • Lester Holt
    • Peter Jennings
    • Connie Chung

    Your local newsperson reports on the days’ events in your community. They keep you informed of important political news, businesses in your community, weather, traffic, crime, and education updates. When it comes to the national news, the local news reporters apply local perspectives. While events may happen thousands of miles away, a local newsperson knows it impacts their views still. 

    On the national and world scale, a newsperson may travel far and wide for the complete story. Some are attached to certain regions of the world, specializing in political, economic or health news. Wherever they report from, they bring the news into our homes, cars, businesses or where ever we may be. They keep us informed of the ever-changing world around us.

    HOW TO OBSERVE HUG A NEWSPERSON DAY

    • Hug a newsperson. (Ask for permission first.)
    • If you aren’t able to hug your newsperson, you can send them a virtual one.
    • You can also download our coloring page. When you’re finished coloring it, send it to your favorite newsperson to show them how much you appreciate them.
    • Or solve the word search puzzle we created for the day using common news words.
    • Use #HugANewspersonDay to post on social media.

    NATIONAL HUG A NEWSPERSON DAY HISTORY

    National Day Calendar continues to research the origins of this day. However, it has been celebrated since at least 1998. 

    Newsperson FAQ

    Q. What’s another word for a newsperson?
    A. A newsperson might also be called:

    • Reporter
    • Journalist
    • Correspondent

    Q. Where does a newsperson work?
    A. A newsperson can work in a variety of areas including:

    • Broadcast television
    • Radio
    • Newspapers
    • Magazines

     

  • NATIONAL WALK AROUND THINGS DAY – April 4

    NATIONAL WALK AROUND THINGS DAY

    National Walk Around Things Day on April 4th each year is a holiday open to interpretation. Very little information is available regarding this celebration, so we’ll give it our best to guide you through it.

    #WalkAroundThingsDay

    This day may be looked at both figuratively and literally. Literally, one would not walk through a puddle of water or mud; one would walk around it. One would not walk under a ladder or over broken glass, one would walk around both.

    Figuratively, one would “walk around” avoiding certain problems or potential problems. One would also “walk around” avoiding arguments, certain situations, or unwanted or uncomfortable conversations.

    Another possible intent of this day could very well be to walk around things such as a neighborhood, park, or shopping mall. While we’re walking around we might also walk around obstacles or structures we come across during our stroll. We might find a fountain or swingset to walk around in a park. At the mall, benches and planters interrupt our easy stride. Of course, at home, we have all sorts of things that we walk around willingly. Sometimes the reason we walk around these items is pure avoidance like laundry or clutter. We might also walk around a sleeping pet. 

    HOW TO OBSERVE WALK AROUND THINGS DAY

    • Make a point to walk around things or subjects. No matter what you decide to walk around, make sure you do it properly:
      • Warm-up those muscles. 
      • Wear good shoes. 
      • Keep your head up and maintain good posture.
      • Swing your arms.
      • A brisk walk is about 20 minutes per mile. Walking around things might slow you down, though. 
    • Other ways to participate in National Walk Around Things Day might include:
      • Take photos of the things you walk around.
      • Count how many things you walk around. (That might become more tedious than walking around them.)
      • Leave things for others to walk around. For example, a mysterious obelisk in the middle of the living room.
    • Share your achievements using #WalkAroundThingsDay to post on social media.

    NATIONAL WALK AROUND THINGS DAY HISTORY

    National Day Calendar continues to research the origin of this vague and yet possibly useful holiday. To make a point, we’ll walk around and see what else we can find out about the day. 

    Walk Around FAQ

    Q. Isn’t it easier to step over things?
    A. Not always. If it’s a large object or your legs don’t work well, going around the object is better.

    Q. Is this day about picking up after yourself?
    A. It might be. Maybe someone’s mother tired of them walking around the toys, clothes, and other things left around the house.

    Q. How many frequently asked questions could there be about walking around things?
    A. That’s a good question. How many do you think there are?