Category: August 25

• NATIONAL PARK SERVICE FOUNDERS DAY – August 25

  NATIONAL PARK SERVICE FOUNDERS DAY | AUGUST 25

  On this day in 1916, President Woodrow Wilson signed what is now called the Organic Act. It established the National Park Service. As part of the Department of Interior, the National Park Service protects 400 areas in 50 states, U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia, totaling 84 million acres.

  #NPSFoundersDay

  National Park Service Founders Day recognizes the superior conservation and preservation efforts of the National Parks System. Whether enjoying scenic trails, open spaces, watersheds, or recreational areas, the National Parks Service provides a natural outdoor resource accessible to every American. Hiking and biking trails entice us to explore. They also offer an outdoor experience like no other. These parks challenge us with more beauty and history than most of us can imagine.

  A Trip Through Time

  Not only does the National Park Service provide access to millions of acres of the most picturesque places in the country, but it also takes us back in time. Through historic trails, we walk in the footsteps of Harriet Tubman. For example, a historic trail in Maryland takes us along the path of the Underground Railroad, where Tubman led men and women away from slavery and to freedom. In Ohio, we explore the infancy of aviation in the United States.

  As we travel through the beauty of the historic Natchez Trace, we’ll discover the intense and tragic histories that lay along the way. From Native Americans to European settlement and the Civil War, the Natchez Trace survived it all.

  West of the Mississippi, ancient ruins and resurrected forts tell the stories of those who have gone before us. In rustic settings or an out-of-the-way oasis in New Mexico, rediscover the history of untold ages. After the arid West, head North and study the Klondike Gold Rush in Washington or the history of Columbia River, too.

  Majestic beasts and glorious sunsets throughout the National Park Service entice visitors all year long. Some of these parks are in your own backyard, too! They are a mere stone’s throw away. Once you get started, you won’t want to stop. Make a list and keep going.

  HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE FOUNDERS DAY

  Celebrate by visiting one of the 400 management areas across the country. There’s one not far from each of us. There are several ways to get started, too!

  • Make a list of the parks you’d like to see.
  • Map them out! Then hit the road every chance you have.
  • Help keep our National Parks clean and natural. If you pack it in, pack it out.
  • Revisit your favorite ones and share photos on social media.
  • Introduce a friend or family member to the world of National Parks.
  • While visiting, take a hike or learn about the history and culture of the region.
  • Read about the history of the National Park Service or watch a documentary.
  • Take a virtual tour.

  Don’t forget to share your journeys too! Share your experiences, past, and present, where ever you go.

  Use #NPSFoundersDay to share on social media.

  Educators and families, be sure to visit the National Day Calendar Classroom for ideas and projects to Celebrate Every Day! You can also download and print the Hike Color Page to inspire your next visit to a National Park. Send a picture of it, and we just might share it on our social media pages.

  NATIONAL PARK SERVICE FOUNDERS DAY HISTORY

  On August 25, 1916, President Wilson signed into law the Organic Act passed by Congress. It created the National Park Service, which became a part of the Department of Interior. At the time, there were 35 management areas, including national parks and monuments. Since then, it has grown, and the National Park Service continues to preserve these beautiful gems for generations to come.

  August 22, 2017

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  National Day Calendar

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  August 25, Education & History, National Day

• NATIONAL BANANA SPLIT DAY – August 25

  NATIONAL BANANA SPLIT DAY | AUGUST 25

  National Banana Split Day recognizes the sweet ice cream treat served with a banana, whipped cream, and various toppings. Get yours on August 25th!

  #NationalBananaSplitDay

  How to Make a Banana Split

  Originally served in drug stores, soda fountains, and ice cream parlors, the banana split is traditionally served in a long dish called a boat. To make a banana split, cut the banana lengthwise and place it in the dish. Then add scoops of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream between the slices of banana. Each scoop gets a topping; add crushed pineapple to the strawberry, drizzle chocolate syrup over the vanilla, and add strawberry topping to the chocolate. Next, sprinkle with crushed nuts. Finally, garnish with whipped cream and maraschino cherries. 

  The Inventor

  A 23-year-old apprentice pharmacist at Tassel’s Pharmacy in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, created the first banana split in 1904. David Evans Strickler enjoyed inventing sundaes at the store’s soda fountain. For only 10 cents, Strickler sold his first “banana-based triple ice cream sundae,” double the cost of all the other sundaes.  

  HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL BANANA SPLIT DAY

  Whether you go out for a banana split or make one at home, be sure to get two! One for you and one to share. Host a banana split buffet with a variety of ice creams and toppings. Let judges taste each kind. Then crown the winner with bragging rights. If you need a recipe to get you started, try this Banana Split Cheesecake recipe.

  However you celebrate, don’t forget the cherry on top! Use #NationalBananaSplitDay to post on social media.

  Don’t forget to check the Celebration Deals page for the latest offers to help you #CelebrateEveryDay!

  NATIONAL BANANA SPLIT DAY HISTORY

  We were unable to find the creator of National Banana Split Day. However, David Strickler’s hometown of Latrobe, Pennsylvania, proudly celebrates his creation with a festival every August. In 2013, they placed an official marker at the site of the pharmacy where Strickler first made his famous banana split. Then, the United States Post Office honored the banana split and the town of Latrobe in 2016 with a 47-cent “forever stamp” depicting the banana split.  It was one of five stamps in the “Soda Fountain Favorites” series.  For a time, Latrobe residents could receive a cancellation mark memorializing their claim to fame. 

  Banana Split FAQ

  Q. How many calories are in a banana split?
  A. According to nutritionix.com, a 450 gram Banana Split contains 852 calories. For a breakdown of the calories by ingredient visit their website.

  Q. Is there a National Banana Day?
  A. Yes. National Banana Day is the third Wednesday in April. 

  Q. Can you eat banana peels?
  A. While many people may find eating banana peels unappealing, they are edible.

   

  May 1, 2014

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  National Day Calendar

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  August 25, National Day

• NATIONAL SECONDHAND WARDROBE DAY – August 25

  NATIONAL SECONDHAND WARDROBE DAY | AUGUST 25

  National Secondhand Wardrobe Day encourages deals and savings each year across the United States on August 25. Find steals in secondhand and consignment stores all day long on gently worn clothing for all ages. 

  #SecondhandWardrobeDay

  Did you know, secondhand shopping offers numerous benefits. Beginning with the savings, for a fraction of the price of retail, thrifty shoppers fill their wardrobe while pocketing the savings. Additionally, they conveniently shop for the whole family in one or two stores. Many secondhand stops cater to particular age groups making it easier to find the styles shoppers seek. Instead of ending up in a landfill, the lightly used clothing gets another go around. And, this National Day benefits the Earth as well!

  

  When is National Thrift Shop Day?

  Freeing up some of your closet space and giving some of your rarely worn clothes will benefit you with extra space. Donating your clothing will be helping someone else who is a secondhand store shopper.  Your donation will be a blessing to them as well as to the charity that runs the store.

  Why allow the stigma of wearing used clothing beat the above scenario of the recycling, reusing, re-purposing cycle we are trying to teach the next generation. Plus, many local secondhand stores are set up as a nonprofit raising additional funds for local needs in the community. 

  HOW TO OBSERVE SECONDHAND WARDROBE DAY

  For all secondhand store shoppers, find an entire wardrobe in thrift stores across the United States. Do you need more ways to celebrate? Well here you go:

  • Watch thrift store makeover shows inspiration.
  • Share your tips and tricks to thrift store shopping.
  • Learn how to best utilize a bargain for maximum appeal.
  • Invite others to join you and then host a thrift store fashion show. 

  Put your new outfit on and use #SecondhandWardrobeDay to post images on social media. 

  NATIONAL SECONDHAND WARDROBE DAY HISTORY

  National Day Calendar continues researching the origins of this thrifty holiday. However, check out these other deal days. 

  • National Secondhand Wardrobe Week
  • National Consignment Day

  Secondhand FAQ

  Q. Are there items I shouldn’t buy secondhand?
  A. Car seats are probably the number one item you should never buy at a thrift store. A car seat may have been in an accident and damaged. They also expire. Other obvious items include underwear, bathing suits, and makeup. For a complete list, visit Country Living.

  Q. What are the best ways to create a stellar second-hand wardrobe?
  A. Beyond shopping thrift stores, you can also shop at garage sales, online consignment shops and marketplaces.

  Q. Are secondhand clothes washed before they are sold?
  A. Probably not. Error on the side of caution and wash your finds before wearing them.

   

  May 1, 2014

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  National Day Calendar

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  August 25, National Day, Pop Culture & Lifestyle

• NATIONAL KISS AND MAKE UP DAY – August 25

  NATIONAL KISS AND MAKE UP DAY | AUGUST 25

  National Kiss and Make up Day reminds us to end the quarrels, arguments, and fights. Instead, come to an agreement with anyone you’ve had a disagreement with on National Kiss and Make up Day on August 25th. 

  #KissAndMakeUpDay

  Similar to the April 2nd National Reconciliation Day, THIS National Day gives us a chance to make amends. Each one of us has had a fight with a loved one at some point in our lives. Whether it is between you and a friend, family member, neighbor or co-worker after time has passed, do you remember the cause? Who was even at fault? Do you want the discord to go on any longer? That is probably the most important question of all.

  Offering an apology, or simply just breaking the silence can be enough to begin the healing. Strive to compromise. Even in a no-win situation, if the relationship is worth preserving agreeing to disagree may be the only resolution. When we talk through issues calmly after a serious dispute, we often find both sides misunderstood the other person. Looking back, hopefully, we can find something to laugh about and repair the relationship.

  Factoid: Kissing prompts your brain to release a happy elixir of feel-good chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin. This isn’t only important for your happiness, it may also help to strengthen your relationship.

  HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL KISS AND MAKE UP DAY

  Let’s find a way to resolve the differences and celebrate with a new start on Kiss and Make Up Day!  Use #KissAndMakeUpDay to post on social media.

  NATIONAL KISS AND MAKE UP DAY HISTORY 

  Jacqueline Milgate of Hilton, New York founded Kiss and Make up Day giving loved ones a scheduled day to mend relationships.

  Kiss and Make Up FAQ

  Q. What are the best movie make up scenes?
  A.

  • The Notebook – Allie and Noah reunite after years apart, but they have a firey argument followed by an epic make up.
  • Juno – Juno fills Paulie’s mailbox full of Tic Tacs.
  • The Mission – Rodrigo, an indigenous tribe, and Father Gabriel reconcile after a penance for Rodrigo’s sinful acts.
  • Happy Gilmore – Happy Gilmore apologies to Chubbs by saying, “I’m stupid. You’re smart. I was wrong. You were right. You’re the best. I’m the worst. You’re very good-looking. I’m not attractive.”
  • Jerry Maguire – Jerry’s “I love you” speech to Dorothy hits the mark when he says, “You complete me.”

  May 1, 2014

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  National Day Calendar

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  August 25, National Day, Pop Culture & Lifestyle

• NATIONAL WHISKEY SOUR DAY – August 25

  NATIONAL WHISKEY SOUR DAY | AUGUST 25

  On August 25th, people across the United States observe National Whiskey Sour Day.

  #NationalWhiskeySourDay

  Traditionally garnished with half an orange and a maraschino cherry, a whiskey sour is a mixed drink containing whiskey (often bourbon), lemon juice, and sugar. Whiskey sours are shaken then either served straight or over ice.

  “Too much of anything is bad, but too much good whiskey is barely enough.” – Mark Twain

  Alternatives to the traditional whiskey sour are the Boston sour and the Ward 8. The Boston sour adds a dash of egg white to the recipe. The Ward 8 uses either a Bourbon or rye whiskey base with both lemon and orange juices and grenadine syrup added for sweetness.

  The first mention of a whiskey sour was in an 1870 Wisconsin newspaper.

  • After opening, a bottle of whiskey will remain good for five years.
  • An unopened bottle of whiskey can be kept for over 100 years and will still be fit to drink.
  • Both “Whisky” and “Whiskey” spellings are correct. Whisky is specific to Scotch Whisky, and Whiskey is Irish.
  • In 2004, Alabama named Conecuh Ridge Whiskey as its official state spirit.
  • According to legend, Jack Daniels ran away at the age of 6 and learned to make whiskey from a Lutheran minister.

  HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL WHISKEY SOUR DAY

  Celebrate by enjoying a whiskey sour! Invite a friend to join you. Don’t hesitate to try a twist on the whiskey sour. While you enjoy your cocktail, explore the history of whiskey, its production, and trade. We recommend:

  • The documentaries Straight Up and Scotch: The Golden Dram 
  • Whiskey Master Class by Lew Bryson
  • Whiskey Women: The Untold Story of How Women Saved Bourbon, Scotch and Irish Whiskey by Fred Minnick
  • Dead Distillers by Colin Spoelman and David Haskell

  (Remember always to drink responsibly and never drink and drive.) Use #NationalWhiskeySourDay to post on social media.

  NATIONAL WHISKEY SOUR DAY HISTORY

  Within our research, we were unable to find the creator or the origin of this popular National Day.

  Whiskey FAQ

  Q. What kind of glass do you use to serve a whiskey sour?
  A. A whiskey sour can be served in a rocks glass, highball, a stemmed glass.

  Q. Can I make a sour from other spirits?
  A. Yes. Vodka, gin, rum, tequila, pisco, and brandy are all used to make sour cocktails.

  Q. What’s in a tequila sour?
  A. Tequila, lemon and lime juice, simple syrup, bitters, and egg white (optional). Did you know, the margarita and Paloma also fall into the sour cocktails category?

  Q. What whiskey holidays are on the calendar?
  A. National Irish Coffee Day, International Whisk(e)y Day, National Bootlegger’s Day, and National Bourbon Day just to name a few.

   

  August 25th Celebrated History

  1810 

  The first patent for preserving food in tin cans is issued to Peter Durand. The merchant would later sell the English patent No. 3372 to Bryan Donkin and John Hall.

  1840 

  Addressing the issue of proper field seeding, Joseph Gibbons patents a grain drill that regulated the amount of seed sown in a single row.

  1875 

  Captain Matthew Web swims across the English Channel unassisted. His accomplishment is the first swim recorded swim across the channel from England to France.

  1894 

  The bacteriologist identified the organism responsible for the bubonic plague.

  1908 

  Fifty-two graduates of nursing, led by Martha Franklin, organized the National Association of Colored Graduate Nurses.

  1916 

  Congress establishes the National Park Service.

  1919 

  The first international passenger air service begins operating between London and Paris.

  1920 

  At the 1920 Olympics in Antwerp, Ethelda Bleibtrey becomes the first woman to win gold in swimming.

  1932 

  From sea to shining sea, Amelia Earhart becomes the first woman to fly across the North American content solo.

  1958 

  Chikin Ramen becomes the first instant noodles on the market. Momofuku Ando perfected the process, and Nissin Foods sold the product.

  1968 

  Tennis player Arthur Ashe earns the men’s singles champion, becoming the first African-American to win the U.S. Open.

  1980

  GE registers copyright for the jingle “We Bring Good Things To Life.”

  2006

  The world’s tallest living tree is discovered. Named Hyperion, the redwood discovered by Michael Taylor and Chris Atkins grows in Redwood National and State Parks.

  2012 

  NASA’s Voyager 1 enters interstellar space, making it the first spacecraft to venture beyond the power of the solar winds.

  August 25th Celebrated Birthdays

  Allan Pinkerton – 1819

  The former deputy sheriff of Cook County in Chicago is best known for establishing one of the country’s most famous private detective agencies, the Pinkerton National Detective Agency.

  Joshua L. Cowen – 1877

  The inventor and toymaker co-founded the Lionel Corporation and developed the first Lionel model train for the company.

  Mary Bruce – 1900

  Founder of the Mary Bruce Dance School in Harlem, the ballet and tap dancer taught Gregory Hines, Ruby Dee, and Katharine Dunham.

  Mollie Panter – Downes – 1906

  English author of such works as The Shoreless Sea and One Fine Day, Panter-Downes was also a columnist for The New Yorker.

  Dorothea Tanning – 1910

  The artist is best known for her surrealist painting and sculpture.

  Arnold Neustadter – 1910

  Before there was the Facebook friends list, there was the Rolodex. And Arnold Neustadter invented it.

  Walt Kelly – 1913

  Kelly worked for Walt Disney Studios as an animator, but he also created the comic strip Pogo.

  Monty Hall – 1921

  Comedian and game show host, Monty Hall, is best known for hosting the television game show Let’s Make a Deal.

  Sean Connery – 1930

  The first actor to play the role of James Bond in the Bond films, Connery has appeared in over 90 films including The Hunt for Red October, Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade, and the host of the Untouchables.

  Regis Philbin- 1931

  The perennial talk show host also hosted Who Wants to Be a Millionaire and made several cameos in film and television.

  Gene Simmons – 1949

  Co-founder of the band KISS, Simmons joined reality TV in 2006 when the A&E network began airing Gene Simmons Family Jewels.

  Tim Burton – 1958

  Filmmaker, Tim Burton, is known for creating dark and wonderous films and animation.

  Ian Falconer – 1959

  Ian Falconer wrote and illustrated the Olivia books and television show for children.

  Rachael Ray – 1968

  The syndicated celebrity chef is known for lifestyle and cooking programs and her cookbooks and product line.

  Jo Dee Messina – 1970

  The country music artist has a string of number 1 hits, including “Bring on the Rain.”

  May 1, 2014

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  National Day Calendar

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  August 25, National Day