Category: August 21

  • NATIONAL DAY OF REMEMBRANCE AND TRIBUTE TO THE VICTIMS OF TERRORISM – August 21

    NATIONAL DAY OF REMEMBRANCE AND TRIBUTE TO THE VICTIMS OF TERRORISM

    On August 21st, International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism honors the lives changed forever by acts of terrorism.

    Victims of terrorism often feel neglected and forgotten when the aftermath of a terrorist attack fades. These victims struggle for their voices to be heard and their rights to be upheld. Many of them need financial, physical, and psychological help. Some of them lose loved ones. These terrorist attack victims frequently do not have the resources to recover fully.

    It’s good news that terror attacks are declining. However, hundreds of people continue to die or get injured during terrorist attacks. In 2018, four major terror attacks killed and wounded hundreds of people around the world. Besides these significant attacks, many smaller ones killed and injured several more.

    Most terrorist attacks include political, ideological, or religious motivation. Some who commit these acts often feel they are victims of social injustice. They might also feel angry, alienated, or disenfranchised. No matter what the reason for terrorist attacks, many people suffer as a result.

    To commemorate this day, the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT), together with the United Nations Counter-Terrorism Centre (UNCCT) will be screening a documentary that focuses on the victims and survivors of Boko Haram in Cameroon. The UNOCT/UNCCT and the Group of Friends of Victims of Terrorism will also host a photo exhibition and lecture.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #DayOfRemembranceAndTribute

    While the common person doesn’t have the tools to stop terrorist attacks. However, you can do your part by trying to understand those who are different from you. Understanding one another does a lot to diminish hatred between different races or religions. Pause on this day to remember the victims of terrorist attacks around the world. Give to relief organizations that help victims of terror attacks. If you know a victim of a terrorist attack, be sure to tell them about the United Nations’ Support Portal.

    Don’t forget to share this important day on social media by using #InternationalDayOfRemembranceAndTribute

    INTERNATIONAL DAY OF REMEMBRANCE
    AND TRIBUTE TO THE VICTIMS OF TERRORISM HISTORY

    In 2017, the United Nations General Assembly designated August 21 as the International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism. That year alone, nearly 75% of all terrorism-related deaths occurred in just five countries. These countries included Afghanistan, Iraq, Nigeria, Somalis, and Syria. The day was set aside to strengthen solidarity with terror victims in these countries and others.

     

  • BRAZILIAN BLOWOUT DAY – August 21

    NATIONAL BRAZILIAN BLOWOUT DAY | AUGUST 21

    August 21st recognizes National Brazilian Blowout Day. The day provides an opportunity to put your best self forward, starting with your beautiful locks.

    #BrazilianBlowoutDay

    While summer weather celebrates beach trips, vacation, barbecues, and a carefree attitude; it can also be a hair nightmare! With humidity at an all-time high, frizzy hair is in full effect across the nation. Therefore, a Brazilian Blowout calms your tresses and allows you to embrace your most beautiful self.  

    When is National Clean Beauty Day?

    Through the use of innovative and breakthrough bonding technologies, the Brazilian Blowout treatment improves the health and condition of the hair. It creates a protective protein layer around the hair shaft.  As a result, it eliminates frizz and smooths the cuticle. So, those with Brazilian Blowouts don’t fear the summer humidity and feel confident in their look.

    HOW TO OBSERVE BRAZILIAN BLOWOUT DAY

    Beat the humidity. Visit a certified salon in your neighborhood to beat the weather and humidity. Talk to your stylist about a Brazilian Blowout and all your hair care needs. Be sure to give your stylist a shout out, too. To find a salon: https://www.brazilianblowout.com/salon-search

    Use #BrazilianBlowoutDay to post on social media.

    BRAZILIAN BLOWOUT DAY HISTORY

    The Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed the day in August 2014. Other hair care and beauty celebrations include:

     

  • NATIONAL SENIOR CITIZENS DAY – August 21

    NATIONAL SENIOR CITIZENS DAY | AUGUST 21

    On August 21st, National Senior Citizens Day recognizes the achievements of the more mature representatives of our nation. The day provides an opportunity to show our appreciation for their dedication, accomplishments, and services they give throughout their lives. 

    #SeniorCitizensDay

    According to the 2017 census, 47 million seniors live in the United States. By 2060, that number will nearly double. Their wealth of knowledge, skill, and experience offer so much to the next generation. As technologies advance, these are the people who’ve experienced each step of change. Not only have they contributed to it, but they understand first hand the benefits and the drawbacks. They know life without the advancements that exist today. 

    Quote markBy the time you’re eighty years old you’ve learned everything. You only have to remember it. ~ George Burns

    Our senior citizens are pioneers of science, medicine, psychology, civil rights and so much more. Their valuable contributions to our communities create better places to live. They deserve the respect and dignity their achievements earn them. The day encourages supporting senior citizens to live their lives to the fullest and as independently as possible. 

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL SENIOR CITIZENS DAY

    Spend time with the senior citizens you know. Let them know they are appreciated and loved. It may also be a good day to volunteer at a retirement home. Share your smile with those who may not otherwise get a visitor today. 

    If you are a senior citizen, check for special discounts and promotions that may be offered at stores and restaurants in your area.

    Use #SeniorCitizensDay to post on social media.

    NATIONAL SENIOR CITIZENS DAY HISTORY

    On August 19, 1988, President Ronald Reagan signed Proclamation 5847 declaring August 21st as National Senior Citizens Day.  

    Senior Citizen FAQ

    Q. What age is a senior citizen?
    A. The answer varies. Different parts of the U.S. Government even list the age differently. Medicare age-based benefits kick in at the age of 65. However, to collect Social Security, eligibility begins for seniors at age 62.

    Q. Do senior citizens receive discounts?
    A. Many stores, restaurants, and services offer discounts to senior citizens. Each location may define a senior citizen by different ages, so it’s important to check first before expecting a discount.

    Q. Do most senior citizens retire at age 65?
    A. A growing number of senior citizens are continuing to work beyond the age of 65. According to Pew Research, more Baby Boomers are working beyond retirement than the previous generation. However, more senior citizens still choose to fully retire at the age of 65.

     

  • NATIONAL SPUMONI DAY – August 21

    NATIONAL SPUMONI DAY | AUGUST 21

    National Spumoni Day on August 21st celebrates a delicious frozen treat which hails from southern Italy. 

    #NationalSpumoniDay

    Traditionally, three molded layers of flavored gelato create a unique dessert. The creamy creation often includes candied fruits and nuts in two layers and with a third chocolate layer.

    According to a Chicago Tribune article from July 4, 1979, a “genuine spumoni” recipe was brought to the United States from Nola, Italy in 1905. Salvatore Lezza started a bakery in Chicago along with his wife, Lucia. Their traditional recipe called for three layers of semifreddo – an almond layer, semisweet chocolate, and stracciatella. Stracciatella is a type of gelato with irregular bits of chocolate in it.

    Quote markI go running when I have to. When the ice cream truck is doing sixty. ~ Wendy Liebman

    However, around the United States, most spumoni will include a cherry layer with cherry bits, a layer of pistachio ice cream, and a layer of chocolate. Other varieties include hazelnut, vanilla, strawberry, pineapple, just to name a few. 

    When is National Strawberry Ice Cream Day?

    Serve spumoni sliced and you will highlight its beautiful layers. It’s also considered the traditional way to serve the ice cream dessert.  However, the ice cream lends itself to being scooped, too. When first seeing spumoni, it looks a lot like Neapolitan. Minus the added fruits and nuts, the two ice creams are very similar. In fact, spumoni inspired the Neapolitan. It also inspired cakes, cookies, and other recipes as well. 

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL SPUMONI DAY

    Many ice cream parlors offer their own version of spumoni. Order up a slice! Or, try making your own. Enjoy this Spumoni recipe and try it with this Italian Spumoni Cupcake recipe. You can also share your own recipes or memories.  While you’re at it, be sure to invite someone to enjoy a slice with you!

    While you’re celebrating, be sure to use #NationalSpumoniDay to post on social media.

    NATIONAL SPUMONI DAY HISTORY

    While National Day Calendar continues researching the origins of this ice cream holiday, check out these other celebrations!

    Spumoni FAQ

    Q. What is semifreddo?
    A. Semifreddo is an Italian frozen dessert made from egg yolks, sugar and cream. Because the mixture has less water than ice cream, it is smoother and has a mousse-like texture.

    Q. What does semifreddo mean?
    A. The word “semifreddo” means semi-frozen.

    Q. What kinds of desserts are made from semifreddo?
    A. Besides spumoni, semifreddo can come in many flavors. It is often layered between cake or pastries and is served in the form of cake, just like spumoni.

    Q. Where can I buy spumoni?
    A. Several brands of ice cream makers offer spumoni in their lineup. Check out your local grocer or ice cream shop. You can even make it yourself!

     

    August 21st Celebrated History

    1841 

    John Hampton receives patent No. US2223 for improvements to the Venitian Blind.

    1878 

    Lawyers from across the country gather in Saratoga, NY to form the American Bar Association. The national association was the first of its kind in the United States.

    1879 

    The Telephone Company Ltd. opens in London. The exchange is the first in Europe.

    1888

    Burroughs’ invention of the adding machine made the life of merchants and accountants easier.

    1897 

    The carmaker, Ransom Eli Olds founds Olds Motors Works in Lansing, MI. The first car the company produced was the curved-dash Oldsmobile.

    1911 

    A former employee of the Louvre steals the Mona Lisa. Italian, Vincenzo Peruggia, was a glazier at the museum. He absconded with the masterpiece by Leonardo Di Vinci after cutting it from its frame and hiding the artwork under his clothes. Two years later, he would be captured after trying to sell the painting. Despite protests from Italians, the artwork was recovered and returned to the museum.

    1942 

    Disney released the animated film, Bambi.

    1947 

    The first Little League World Series begins in Williamsport, PA. Williamsport wins the championship over Lock Haven a few days later.

    1959 

    Hawaii becomes the 50th state to join the Union. At the age of 16, Robert Heft designed the current 50-star flag as part of a class project to include the 49th and 50th states. Upon completion, Heft sent the flag to Ohio congressman, Rep. Walter Moeller to submit the design for consideration. Congress chose Heft’s design because he submitted the only sewn design.

    1962 

    Patent No. 3,050,404 is issued to Edwin Traisman for a “method for preparing frozen French fried potatoes.” The patent, submitted by a McDonald’s franchisee, also includes other frozen starchy vegetables.

    1987 

    Lionsgate releases Dirty Dancing in the United States. It starred Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey.

    2008 

    The U.S. soccer team beats Brazil for the gold medal at the Beijing Olympics. Carli Lloyd scores the winning shot in the 1-0 match in extra time.

    2017 

    North America watches the only total solar eclipse in the 21st century to be viewable across Mexico, the United States, and Canada.

    2019 

    Nigeria makes great strides toward eliminating polio from its country when it goes three years without a case.

    August 21st Celebrated Birthdays

    William Murdock – 1754

    The Scottish inventor pursued improvements in the steam engine and was the first to use coal gas as a safe illumination.

    William Kelly – 1811

    On the cusp of the industrial age, Kelly is one ironmaster who developed the pneumatic process of steelmaking.

    Claude Grahame White – 1879

    The daring English pilot is known for completing the first night flight. He also won numerous races and competitions.

    George Bugs Moran – 1893

    The Chicago gangster and bootlegger escaped death during the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre.

    Lili Marie Juliette Olga Boulanger – 1893

    As an accomplished French composer, Boulanger became the first woman to win the Prix de Rome competition prize.

    Theresa Weld Blanchard – 1893

    The U.S. figure skater won a bronze medal in the singles competition at the 1920 Antwerp Olympics. She was also a competitive pairs skater.

    Friz Freleng – 1906

    The American artist began his career in animation at the age of 17. He would go on to work for Disney Studios and Warner Brothers.

    Toe Blake – 1912

    As a Canadian left-wing, Toe played and coached ice hockey for the Montreal Canadiens.

    Jack Buck – 1924

    The Major League Baseball announcer was known as the Voice of the Cardinals. In 1987, he was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1987.

    Judy Grable – 1925

    Better known as Judy Grable, the professional wrestler earned two American Women’s Wrestling championships. She was also inducted into the World Wrestling Entertainment Hall of Fame in 2017.

    Art Farmer & Addison Farmer – 1928

    The identical twin brothers both entered into music, Art as a trumpeter and flugelhorn player and Addison as a double bassist. Their jazz careers took them around the world.

    Janet Baker – 1933

    The mezzo-soprano singer gained recognition in the 1950s for her quality performances in opera, concert, and lieder (similar to chamber performances) music.

    Wilt Chamberlain – 1936

    During his professional basketball career, the 7″1′ center led in nearly every scoring stat and rebounds. His phenomenal skill first landed him with the Harlem Globe Trotters and an extensive NBA career with Philadelphia 76ers and Los Angeles Lakers.

    Kenny Rogers – 1938

    The country music singer was known for his crossover hit songs such as “The Gambler” and “Islands in the Stream.” He also appeared in film and television. In 2013, he was elected to the County Music Hall of Fame.

    Margo Kane – 1951

    Margo Kane is a solo-voice performer and the founder of Full Circle: First Nations Performance. As an actress, she has also performed in films such as Poltergeist: The Legacy and DreamKeeper.

    Lance Earl Deal – 1961

    The track and field athlete earned silver in the 1992 Atlanta Olympics in the hammer throw competition.

    Stephen Hillenburg – 1961

    Best known as the creator of the Nickelodeon animated series, SpongeBob SquarePants, Hillenburg was also a marine biologist.

    Sergey Brin – 1973

    Along with Larry Page, Brin co-founded Google.

    Usain Bolt – 1986

    The nine-time Olympic gold medalist from Jamaica is considered the world’s greatest sprinter.

    Hayden Panettiere – 1989

    Panettiere began her acting career in the soap opera One Life to Live and later gained attention for her roles in the television shows Heroes and Nashville.