Category: January Weeks

  • NATIONAL SCHOOL CHOICE WEEK – Last Week in January

    NATIONAL SCHOOL CHOICE WEEK

    National School Choice Week during the last week in January sets out to increase awareness for parents, guardians, and students regarding their educational options.

    Across the country, education for K-12 students comes in a variety of forms. While many students attend traditional public schools, many of the other non-traditional options may be a better fit for your child.

    • Private School – These schools are tuition-based and may be either independent or faith-based. Found in all 50 states, many offer tuition assistance or scholarships. Depending on where you live, other funding may also be available.
    • Charter School – This type of public school is similar to a public school in that that is, it is both free. However, the charter school runs independently of the public school system and offers its own curriculum. The charter school will need to meet performance expectations, or the state will not renew its charter.
    • Magnet School – Another type of public school, magnet schools, focus on specific studies, and high performing students. Tuition does not apply to magnet schools.
    • Online School – Depending on where you live, some states offer free online public schools for students.
    • Home School – Parents or guardians teach students at home following a curriculum designed for their children. All 50 states allow homeschooling. Homeschoolers are often part of a community that develops lesson plans, launches group projects, and more.

    Exploring educational options for your children means knowing what’s available. It also means being involved and being heard.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #SchoolChoiceWeek

    Learn more about the types of school options available to students today. Explore the options with your students and use #SchoolChoiceWeek to share on social media.

    NATIONAL SCHOOL CHOICE WEEK HISTORY

    In 2011, National School Choice Week campaign launched to raise the public’s awareness of the educational options available to students across the country.

     

  • MEAT WEEK – Begins Last Sunday in January

    MEAT WEEK

    Meat Week turns up the heat starting the last Sunday in January. Running for eight days, the annual event invites restaurants to test their skills with the best cuts of meat.

    Restaurants and their chefs are challenged to offer the best and latest for eight days. Turn up the BBQ heat and bring on the brisket and ribs. Get the smokin’ tender turkey and pulled pork ready. Because when the doors open, customers will be eager for some mouth-watering BBQ every night of the week.

    Will you be whipping up a spicy sauce that will leave us crying in our beer? Or will it be tangy one with some zip? We’ll be looking for pork, lamb, chicken, beef, and turkey. But let’s not forget the tasty sides. BBQ isn’t the same without the side dishes. Baked beans, coleslaw, and mac n’ cheese are just a few of the ones we’re thinking about. However, feel free to break into new territory. We know you love to cook up those taters every which way.

    However, the focus is the meat. Smoked, sauced, and slow-cooked, it finds it’s way to the diner’s table with each restaurant’s special recipe.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #MeatWeek

    Get your venue on the list. Then visit your favorite restaurants during meat week and savor the best that BBQ has to offer. Give each place a shout out using #MeatWeek on social media.

    MEAT WEEK HISTORY

    In 2005, Chris Cantey and Erni Walker of Tallahassee, Florida, created Meat Week to celebrate barbecued meats across the country. One tradition that’s developed is Hype Week leading up to Meat Week to generate excitement about the celebration.

  • INTERNATIONAL HOOF CARE WEEK – Begins Third Tuesday in January

    INTERNATIONAL HOOF CARE WEEK

    International Hoof Care Week spreads awareness for the care of hoofed animals. Each year, the week begins the third Tuesday in January and goes through Friday.

    You are probably well aware that many kinds of animals have hooves. But did you know that these hoofed animals have toes, too? Animals with an even number of toes are called artiodactyls. These include pigs, goats, deer, sheep, and cattle.

    Some animals have only one toe. These animals all belong to the genus Equus. For example, horses, zebras, and donkeys are all one-toed animals. Both even-toed and single-toed animals have hooves. The primary function of these hooves is to allow animals to walk for long distances on hard surfaces without damaging their toes.

    Many people own horses, donkeys, and mules. Their hooves require special care. If hooves get neglected, they can become lame and experience sore feet. Most people who own these animals learn how to care for their animals’ hooves. Some professionals specialize in equine hoof care. They are called farriers. They care for hooves by trimming them and putting shoes on them, if necessary.

    Many dairy farmers also take special care of their cattles’ hooves. These cattle spend much of their time standing, which is why hoof health is essential. In caring for their dairy cattles’ hooves, farmers reduce toe injuries and lameness, prevent diseases like foot rot, make it easier to stand, and increase milk production.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #InternationalHoofCareWeek

    During this week, the American Farriers Journal hosts an annual International Hoof-Care Summit. The event provides hoof-care education through workshops, roundtable discussions, and instructional clinics. Trade show sessions showcase the newest hoof-care products on the market. Some animal organizations, such as the Lilongwe Society for the Protection of and Care of Animals (LSPCA) in Africa, offer free pedicures to donkeys. Other animal organizations around the world offer free farrier training to hoofed-animal owners.

    Here are some other ways to participate:

    • Learn the importance of caring for hooves
    • Find a farrier in your community and observe what they do
    • Attend an equine foot and hoof care clinic
    • Learn about farriers and what it takes to become one
    • Don’t forget to share this day on social media with #InternationalHoofCareWeek

    INTERNATIONAL HOOF CARE WEEK HISTORY

    While National Day Calendar was unable to identify the founder of this observance, the American Farriers Journal began hosting its annual International Hoof-Care Summit in 2003. The American Journal also founded National Farriers Week, held the second week in July.

     

  • NATIONAL CRNA WEEK – Last Week in January

    NATIONAL CRNA WEEK

    During the last week of January, National CRNA Week recognizes Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists and their commitment to patient safety.

    Each year, CRNAs provide more than 49 million services across the country. They work in surgery centers, dental and ophthalmology offices, pain management facilities, and hospitals. Not only do they provide direct care to patients, but they are also an integral part of many medical practices.

    Some of the services nurse anesthetists provide include:

    • reviewing patients’ medical histories for allergies or illnesses ensuring safe and effective pain management
    • administering anesthesia during procedures
    • monitoring patients’ vital signs during procedures
    • epidurals, spinal and nerve blocks
    • ensuring patients understand the side effects of anesthesia

    The services of a CRNA are invaluable to both the patient and the service providers who rely on them to provide professional services. Additionally, in rural areas, CRNAs become the primary providers of anesthesia care. Their skill and accuracy allow patients to undergo surgery safely, relieve pain, and avoid unnecessary pain.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalCRNAWeek

    One way to celebrate the day is by thanking a CRNA. If you’re a CRNA, consider sharing your insights about your career choice with a classroom. Let future CRNAs know why you enjoy your job and what you do every day. Volunteer for a career fair at a high school or university. Employers, let your CRNAs know how much you appreciate them. Use #NationalCRNAWeek to give a shout out to a CRNA you know.

    NATIONAL CRNA WEEK HISTORY

    The American Association of Nurse Anesthetists has supported National CRNA Week since 2000 to raise awareness of the work being done by CRNAs across the country.

     

  • NATIONAL CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK – Begins Last Sunday in January

    CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

    Beginning the last Sunday in January, National Catholic Schools Week celebrates the Catholic education provided throughout the United States.

    In the United States, more than 1.7 million students attend over 6000 Catholic schools. That includes approximately 5000 elementary schools and nearly 1200 secondary schools. The week recognizes the role Catholic schools play in the students’ lives, their family’s and their communities. The schools are committed to providing qualified educators, being involved with parents, and offering a full complement of studies from the basic to advance classes.

    Most Catholic schools offer open enrollment. Students are not required to be of the Catholic faith to attend. Additionally, schools offer tuition assistance and scholarships. Currently, Catholic schools operate in all 50 states and Washington, D.C. and provide education to all faiths.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #CatholicSchoolsWeek

    Each day throughout the observance has a theme. Events on the day guide students and the community through the celebration. Learn more about Catholic schools, the educators and the students who learn there.

    Visit ncea.org to learn more.

    Use #CatholicSchoolsWeek to share your celebration on social media.

    NATIONAL CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK HISTORY

    Since 1974, National Catholic Schools Week has celebrated the education provided by Catholic schools in the United States.

     

  • TAX IDENTITY THEFT AWARENESS WEEK – Fourth Work Week in January

    TAX IDENTITY THEFT AWARENESS WEEK

    Tax Identity Theft Awareness Week kicks off early during tax season. The fourth workweek in January affords everyone an opportunity to learn how to protect themselves against tax identity theft.

    It’s a busy time of year while CPAs and accountants are busy compiling earnings. Employers and employees collect their tax documents and prepare to file taxes. But how do we safely and securely file our taxes? The documents contain valuable information. Cybercrimes like tax identity theft are a growing crime. In the United States, 1/3 of adults have been victims of identity theft. While data breaches can be traced back to some of the causes, thieves are on the lookout for victims at tax time, too.

    There are ways to protect yourself.

    • Do not supply your social security number (SSN) unless absolutely necessary.
    • File taxes early before the criminals do.
    • Shred any documents before discarding in the trash
    • File your taxes through a secure internet connection or mail from your post office.
    • The IRS will not email, text, call or contact you via social media. They will send contact you by U.S. mail.
    • Check your credit report at least once per year. You can check it for free at annualcreditreport.com. Verify no other accounts have been opened under your name.
    • If your SSN becomes compromised, you should contact the IRS ID Theft Protection Specialized Unit. Their number is 800-908-4490. You can also visit IdentityTheft.gov.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #TaxIdentityTheftAwarenessWeek

    Be proactive in protecting your identity. For more information visit consumer.ftc.gov. Use #TaxIdentityTheftAwarenessWeek to share on social media.

    TAX IDENTITY THEFT AWARENESS WEEK HISTORY

    The Federal Trade Commission launched the observance to help provide consumers with tools and resources to protect themselves.

     

  • NATIONAL FRESH SQUEEZED JUICE WEEK – Begins the Third Sunday in January

    NATIONAL FRESH SQUEEZED JUICE WEEK

    Every year on the third Sunday in January, National Fresh Squeezed Juice Week kicks off. The week celebrates the deliciousness and health benefits of fresh-squeezed juice.

    Cold and flu season peaks between December and February. This means that the month of January is crucial for finding ways to keep germs at bay. One of the best ways to keep from getting sick is to boost the immune system. Sure, it’s a good idea to get the flu shot and practice good handwashing. But if you want a delicious way to keep sickness away, drink some fresh-squeezed juice.

    Some of the healthiest fruits to squeeze are oranges, lemons, and grapefruits. These fruits all contain high amounts of Vitamin C. This vitamin is famous for supporting a healthy immune system. Freshly squeezed juices also contain beneficial antioxidants, minerals, and enzymes. It also contains magnesium and potassium. Besides all that, fresh-squeezed juices are super yummy.

    If you have a juicer, you can easily extract juice from the following soft fruits:

    • Pineapples
    • Tomatoes
    • Berries
    • Mangos
    • Grapes
    • Peaches
    • Kiwis

    You can also try hard fruits like apples, pears, and pomegranates.

    You may be asking why you can’t just go out and buy some juice. It’s true that juice in the container still has some health benefits. However, juice in a container has a lot of sugar. It also has a lot of calories. So if you want to avoid the sugar, buy some fruit and give it a squeeze. If you really want to increase the health benefits, go ahead and add some freshly squeezed vegetable juice, too.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalFreshSqueezedJuiceWeek

    The best way to observe this week is to make your own fresh-squeezed juice. Make juice from fruits that you have never tried before. You can even make your own crazy combo. If you want to go all out, buy a brand new juicer. Try a different juice recipe every day. Here are 11 of the best fruit juice recipes. Be sure to post your fresh-squeezed creation on social media.

    Share it with #NationalFreshSqueezedJuiceWeek.

    NATIONAL FRESH SQUEEZED JUICE WEEK HISTORY

    National Day Calendar was unable to identify the founder of this healthy food observance.

    There are over 1,500 national days. Don’t miss a single one. Celebrate Every Day® with National Day Calendar®!

  • WORLD KIWANIS WEEK – Begins January 21

    WORLD KIWANIS WEEK

    Each year on January 21st, Kiwanis kicks off a weeklong anniversary celebration of the service club’s first official meeting. The celebration goes from January 21-26.

    Most people have probably heard about a club called Kiwanis. However, they might not know precisely what the club does. Kiwanis is an international service club. Every year, these clubs host several service projects.

    Most of these service projects center around children. The service projects ensure that children have what they need to be secure and successful in their community. Examples of Kiwanis service projects include building playgrounds, mentoring teens, and sponsoring youth sports. Kiwanis also partners with other organizations to eradicate poverty and disease.

    To encourage participation for the younger generation, Kiwanis is broken down into these clubs:

    • Key Club International – the oldest and largest service leadership organization for teens
    • Circle K International (CKI) – the world’s largest collegiate service leadership organization
    • AKTION Club – service club where adults with disabilities learn leadership skills
    • K-KIDS – primary school students learn about leadership skills and self-empowerment
    • Builders Club – students between the ages of 11 and 14, develop leadership

    Altogether, Kiwanis Club members devote more than six million hours of service. Additionally, club members raise nearly $100 million every year for communities, families, and projects.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #WorldKiwanisWeek

    The best way to observe the week is to find a local Kiwanis International Club in your community. Sign your kids up to participate in one of their clubs. If you don’t have a Kiwanis Club, you can still donate to the organization. Volunteer with a different organization in your community that helps children. Search the Internet to find out more about the history of Kiwanis and what they do.

    Don’t forget to share on social media with #WorldKiwanisWeek

    WORLD KIWANIS WEEK HISTORY

    The first official meeting of the Kiwanis took place on January 21, 1915, in Detroit, Mi. At the time, the organization called itself the Supreme Lodge Benevolent Order Brothers. The club was formed as a way for business people to improve their communities. In 1920, Kiwanis adopted the slogan, “We build.” In 1922, Kiwanis convened across the border in Toronto. By that time, the organization had grown to over 802 clubs with over 68,000 members.

    Today, Kiwanis is a global community of clubs. They are now primarily known for helping children. Their current motto is “Serving the Children of the World.” There are over 555,000 members in 80 countries. Kiwanis is headquartered in Indianapolis, IN, and hosts nearly 150,000 service projects a year.

     

  • CUCKOO DANCING WEEK – Begins January 11

    CUCKOO DANCING WEEK

    Every year beginning on January 11th, Cuckoo Dancing Week celebrates the famous comedy duo act, Laurel and Hardy.

    The duo’s signature tune is The Cuckoo Song. It’s sometimes called The Dance of the Cuckoos. Laurel believed the song’s melody represented Hardy’s on-screen character (pompous and dramatic). The harmony represented his own character (somewhat out of key, and only able to register two notes: “coo-coo”).

    Marvin Hatley composed the song. He was best known for the work he did for the Hal Roach studio from 1929 to 1940. In 1932, Arthur Lally and his orchestra recorded The Cuckoo Song. Full of whimsy and delight, the song contained a xylophone solo by Rudy Starita, and the few lyrics it did contain were sung by popular jazz guitarist and singer Al Bowlly.

    Laurel and Hardy

    It was Laurel and Hardy, however, that people thought of when they heard the tune. When the duo visited Ireland, the church bells at Cobh Cathedral rang out The Cuckoo Song.
    Stan Laurel was born Arthur Stanley Jefferson on June 16, 1890. Ollie Hardy was born Oliver Norvell Hardy on January 18th, 1892. The duo made their first official appearance as a comedy act in 1927.

    They starred in a silent short film called Putting Pants on Philip. Laurel played the humble and clumsy friend of pompous Hardy. Their hilarious slapstick comedy routines made them some of the biggest stars in Hollywood. Together they performed in over 100 short films, feature films, and cameo roles. By 1953, the duo was no longer as famous as they had once been. Also, Hardy’s failing health was of great concern.

    Despite Hardy’s health and their declining fame, the duo embarked on a tour in Great Britain. On May 17, 1954, the tour came to an abrupt end when Ollie Hardy suffered a heart attack. Hardy died in August 1957, and Laurel refused to go on stage without his best friend. Laurel died in February 1965.

    Even though Laurel and Hardy have been gone for many years, their legacy lives on. Laurel and Hardy are credited for influencing many entertainers, including Peter Sellers and Ricky Gervais.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #CuckooDancingWeek

    Here are some ways to observe this fun week:

    • Watch a video on YouTube featuring The Dance of the Cuckoos
    • Watch Stan and Ollie, the movie about their later years in life
    • Research Laurel and Hardy on the internet to learn more about them
    • Listen to Trail of Lonesome Pine, a compilation of songs from Laurel and Hardy films
    • Learn about Sons of the Desert, an organization that honors the work of Laurel and Hardy and hosts an International convention
    • Make up your own dance to the song

    Share your love for Laurel and Hardy this week on social media with #CuckooDancingWeek

    CUCKOO DANCING WEEK HISTORY

    National Day Calendar was unable to identify the founder of this observance. However, it has been celebrated since at least 1994.

  • HOME OFFICE SAFETY AND SECURITY WEEK – Second Full Week in January

    HOME OFFICE SAFETY AND SECURITY WEEK

    During the second full week in January, Home Office Safety and Security Week at-home workers are encouraged to analyze the safety of their work environment.

    Recent statistics show that 43% of Americans work from home on occasion. According to U.S. Census data, 5.2% of Americans work entirely from home. This means that 8 million workers in the country work from home. Many of these at-home workers have an office inside their house.

    The benefits of working from home add up. Some of these benefits include:

    • Schedules tend to be more flexible.
    • Many wear cozy clothes and even pajamas while working.
    • Fewer office distractions like noisiness and gossip increase productivity.
    • No commuting required.
    • With no commute, they spend more time with loved ones.
    • In a home office, the worker controls their own indoor temperature, so it’s never too cold or too warm.
    • They can customize their workspace.

    People who work from home also save money. They don’t have to pay for gas, that expensive latte on the way to work, or eating out for lunch. Additionally, their business clothing budget is smaller, including fewer dry cleaning trips.

    Of course, there are some disadvantages as well. For instance, those who work from home are responsible for their own safety and security. They need to come up with things like a fire escape plan and installing their own smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Other ways to make sure the home office is safe is making sure it’s childproof and ensuring the electrical system can handle the demand of all the electronics. At-home workers should always keep their office clutter-free to avoid trip hazards. Relevant paperwork should be filed in fire-proof file cabinets.

    From a technological standpoint, anti-virus and firewall software should be up to date. Data should be backed up and stored in password-protected files.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #HomeOfficeSafetyAndSecurityWeek

    If you work from home, the best way to observe this week is to take an inventory of your office space. How can the home office be a safer place to work? What can be done to ensure electronic files are secure? Are the office and all the equipment protected by insurance? Maybe it’s time to buy a shredder so that important information isn’t stolen.

    Even those who don’t work from home should evaluate their security and storage measures. Take this week as an opportunity to update your online protections, shred old documents, and maintain an organized home office.

    Since it’s the beginning of the year, this week is a great time to set some home office safety and security goals. To spread awareness, share this week on social media with #HomeOfficeSafetyAndSecurityWeek

    HOME OFFICE SAFETY AND SECURITY WEEK HISTORY

    National Day Calendar was unable to identify the founder of this observance.