Category: May

  • NATIONAL FAMILY FUN DAY | Sunday Before Memorial Day

    NATIONAL FAMILY FUN DAY

    Today is May 28 and the Sunday before Memorial Day at National Day Calendar and we are celebrating National Family Fun Day. This National Day is encouraging families to celebrate everywhere to create some family fun during the long weekend and every day!

    #NATIONALFAMILYFUNDAY

    People across the U.S. use Memorial Weekend as the time to begin summer fun. Families are camping for the first time this season, attending graduations, and having family reunions. National Family Fun Day is your reminder that you don’t have to plan a huge event to enjoy today’s National Day.

    We know that not everyone has opportunity to plan a get away. Some people work, some may not be able to afford a long vacation for their family, and some people are too exhausted to go on a weekend getaway. National Family Fun Day presents a unique opportunity for families to create their own fun and make memories. No matter where they are. Let’s celebrate National Family Fun Day and enjoy the day with our family. In fact, we are going to explain how you can have a family fun day close to home.

    Why is it important to spend time with family?

    Families are busy and it can be difficult to spent time together. Sadly, many get caught up in the daily activities of children, work, and family obligations. Families that spend time together are supportive of one another. When families spend time together they tend to have a greater sense of purpose and feel supportive of one another.

    Studies show that healthy family relationships encourage security and love. Spending time with family offers the benefits of forming unbreakable bonds. As a family, we learn to offer support and encourage other family members to excel.

    5 Important Reasons to Make Family Time

    1. Builds confidence.
    2. Creates a strong emotional bond.
    3. Improves communication between family members.
    4. Builds lasting memories.
    5. Promotes better behavior for kids.

    It’s not always easy to make time to have fun, especially if you are extremely busy. However, it is important to find a balance. There are simple things you can do to ensure your family relationships remain strong. Quality time means spending time together and doing something everyone enjoys. Incorporating a fun element is easy once you realize being together to make memories is the fun part.

    10 NATIONAL FAMILY FUN DAY IDEAS

    Family fun begins with getting together and enjoying the day. In fact, there are so many activities you can plan where fun doesn’t have to mean expensive. Fun can mean finding simple, easy, stress-free activities for your family to participate in. Family fun can be:

    1. Planning a picnic at the local park or lake.
    2. Taking a nature walk and identify bugs, critters, and leaves.
    3. Hosting a cookout and playing yard games.
    4. Baking and then enjoying the yummy goodness together.
    5. Planning, preparing, and eating dinner with your family.
    6. Making s’mores around a campfire and stargaze afterwards.
    7. Starting a small garden for you and your family to work on together all summer long.
    8. Visiting a local museum.
    9. Researching your family history and documenting everything for future family.
    10. Sharing your family fun on social media by tagging #NationalFamilyFunDay.

    HISTORY OF NATIONAL FAMILY FUN DAY

    National Day Calendar created National Family Fun Day in 2023 to encourage families to spend time together. Today’s National Day reminds people to take a step back and do something fun together. We want everyone to enjoy the little things in life and family fun is a small way to relax, laugh, and unwind and #CelebrateEveryDay.

    Related National Days on the National Day Calendar

  • MALCOLM X DAY | Third Friday in May

    MALCOLM X DAY

    Today is May 19 and the third Friday in May on the National Day Calendar and we are honoring the life of civil rights activist Malcolm X. Join us as we explore his life and see how one man became an inspiration for change and equality inspiring Malcolm X Day.

    #MalcolmXDay

    Malcolm Little was born on May 19, 1925 in Omaha Nebraska and was the fourth of seven children. He spent most of his childhood years in foster care after his father passed away. Malcolm dropped out of high school and would pursue odd jobs to make a living. For a short period of time, he would move to Boston to live with his sister, eventually moving to Michigan. It was here he met John Elroy Sanford, who was an aspiring comedian, later known as Redd Foxx. Interestingly, Sanford and Malcolm both had reddish hair that would earn them the nicknames Chicago Red (Sanford) and Detroit Red (Malcolm) on the streets of Detroit.

    In 1946, Malcolm was arrested for larceny and burglary and would serve 10 years in prison for his crimes. During his prison sentence, Malcolm began to transform into a religious man who also had interest in politics. He would join the Nation of Islam and adapt his life around encouraging Black people to empower themselves to achieve economic and social success. It was also during this time Malcom would remove Little as his last name and add the letter “X” as reference to his identity during slavery.

    After his release from prison in 1952, Malcolm X would continue following the Nation of Islam, speaking to people everywhere. In fact, he was an eloquent and charismatic speaker and quickly became one of the organizations most influential representatives. For over 12 years, he would advocate for Black people fighting racial injustices.

    Life Changing Experience

    In 1964, Malcolm X travelled to Mecca, Saudi Arabia to participate in a holy pilgrimage. Unbeknownst him, this trip would become a life-changing experience, changing the way he viewed mankind. Before going to Mecca, he thought in order for Black people to survive, they must separate themselves from white people. This thought process was largely in part due to the teachings of the Nation of Islam. However, after his experience in Mecca, Malcolm would return to the U.S. with a new belief system as a result of the people he met during the pilgrimage. He began preaching to all people that success of a nation meant working together, despite their racial differences.

    “In fact, what I have seen and experienced on this pilgrimage has forced me to ‘rearrange’ much of my own thought‐pattern, and to toss aside some of my previous conclusions.”

    Malcolm X, Interview with the NY Times, May 8, 1964

    The unfortunate belief system of the Nation of Islam to promote violence towards non-supporters became something of the past for Malcolm X. In fact, after his pilgrimage, he would abandon the beliefs of the organization, resulting in an uneasy relationship. Because Malcolm X was a prominent individual in Black American, the organization would become extremely volatile towards him.

    5 Accomplishments of Malcolm X

    1. Beginning in 1965, Malcolm X was the most prominent minister at the Nation of Islam mosques Temple No. 11 (Boston), Temple No. 12 (Philadelphia), and Temple No. 7 (New York).
    2. Malcolm X lead one of the nations largest civil rights events in 1963 at Unity Rally in Harlem.
    3. The NY Times names Malcolm X as the second most sought after speaker in the U.S. in 1963.
    4. In 1964, Malcolm X created the Organizations of Afro-American Unity (OAAU) after forming Muslim Mosque, Inc.
    5. During the 1960s, Malcolm X gave several interviews, participated in debates, and appeared on television promoting equality among all people.

    On February 21, 1965, Malcolm X was shot 15 times by three members of the Nation of Islam during a speaking engagement in Manhattan. Over 1,500 people attended Malcolm’s funeral in Harlem. Friends and family buried Malcolm X themselves as a way to honor the man and the contributions he made to the civil rights movement.

    HONORING MALCOLM X DAY

    1. Read a book about the life of Malcolm X.
    2. Watch the award winning movie Malcolm X.
    3. Attend a lecture about Malcolm X at a local university.
    4. Learn about the civil rights movement.
    5. Volunteer to support an organization that advocates for equal rights.
    6. Share your thoughts and support on Malcolm X Day using #MalcolmXDay on social media.

    Organizations are trying to help make Malcolm X Day into an official state holiday across the country. So far, the day is an official holiday in:

    1. California
    2. District of Columbia
    3. Florida
    4. Georgia
    5. Illinois
    6. Minnesota
    7. Missouri
    8. Nebraska
    9. Ohio
    10. Oregon
    11. Pennsylvania
    12. Tennessee
    13. Texas
    14. Washington
    15. Wisconsin

    Watch and listen to the iconic speech “The Ballot or the Bullet.”

    Similar days on the National Day Calendar:

  • NATIONAL GRAPE DAY | May 27

    NATIONAL GRAPE DAY

    Today is May 27 and we are celebrating the sweetness of National Grape Day by encouraging everyone enjoy one of natures most delicious foods.

    #NATIONALGRAPEDAY

    Grapes are one of the most popular fruits from around the world. National Grape Day on May 27 celebrates the juicy and flavorful varieties available for snacking, sharing, and even drinking.

    Archeologists say grapes have been around for 130 million years. In fact, they are one of the oldest plants on earth. Early records indicate grapes were originally cultivated 6,000 to 7,000 years ago for trading in western Asia, including Egypt, Iran, Israel and Cyprus. Interestingly, grapes were also found in tombs during the pre-Christ era. Today, there are nearly 10,000 known varieties of grapes from around the world, with about 1,300 specific varieties found in vineyards for making wine.

    5 Common Table Grapes

    1. Concord grapes are a purple grape with a sugary taste. They have large seeds and are best when used in candy, pies, jellies, and juice.
    2. Crimson Seedless is a reddish-green grape most commonly found in grocery stores. This grape is firm and has a subtle sweetness with a hint of tartness.
    3. Sultana grapes, or Thompson Seedless grapes, are possibly the oldest grape available today. This greenish/white grape is a smaller table grape with a sweet, juicy flavor.
    4. Niagara grapes, or white Concord grapes, are a light green grape that has a sweet, lemony flavor. Niagara grapes are great for making white grape juice.
    5. Flame Seedless grapes is a popular table grape and purchased often because of availability. The grape is a purple-reddish color and is a hybrid of a Thompson Seedless and the Cardinal grape.

    Vino

    According to archeological finds, the art of winemaking goes back about 6,000 to 7,000 BCE after discovering wine production in the Georgia region. However, many archeologists believe wine was made long before this time. Interestingly, the winemaking discovery has allowed scientists to analyze the grapes discovered by archeologists to determine the evolution and histories of grapes.

    What grapes make good wine? It is important to understand wine grapes are smaller and sweeter than grapes we buy in the grocery store. Though table grapes and wine grapes are very similar, wine grapes require specialized care when growing because of their use.

    Wine grapes grow all over the world. In fact, specific regions produce the best grapes for wine. However, some people are unaware the name of wine actually reflects the name of the grape.

    6 Common Wine Grapes

    1. Merlot
    2. Pinot Noir
    3. Cabernet Sauvignon
    4. Chardonnay
    5. Riesling
    6. Pinot Gris

    The flavor of wine is depends on the region the grapes grow. Vine management during the growing season requires skill and dedication to ensure the harvest season is a successful one. Picking grapes at the exact ripeness is important to deliver a delicious wine product.

    5 UNKNOWN WINE FACTS

    1. Toasting wine glasses originated in ancient Rome when adding toast to wine to help minimize the acidity of wine. 
    2. In ancient Greece the host of a party would drink the first glass of wine to prove to guests the wine was not poison. This became known as drinking to someone’s health.
    3. The oldest alcoholic beverage was discovered in China around 7,000 BC, where a drink was made from fermented grapes, honey, and rice.
    4. Wine fraud is an ancient law originating in Mesopotamia and is known as The Code of Hammurabi.
    5. Christianity in ancient Rome began using wine as a religious ritual to promote the use of wine to help the wine industry flourish.

    CHEERS TO NATIONAL GRAPE DAY

    A bottle of wine goes a long way to enhancing the flavor of a meal. It also loosens the tongue and improving conversations. While most of us don’t need an excuse to open a bottle of our favorite wine, it doesn’t hurt to celebrate it when we do! There are many ways to celebrate National Grape Day, including 9 Wine Celebrations You Don’t Want to Miss. Here are a few more ways to celebrate:

    1. Add grapes to your green salad for additional flavor.
    2. Make a peanut butter and grape jelly sandwich.
    3. Add sliced grapes to your chicken salad.
    4. Attend a wine tasting to learn about the different varieties of wine.
    5. Visit a winery to learn and sample wine.
    6. Participate in a wine exchange with a group of friends.
    7. Share your grape celebrations on social media using #NationalGrapeDay

    Wine is often an essential ingredient to may celebrations, too. It’s no surprise we celebrate wine throughout the calendar. Other National Days on the Calendar worth celebrating:

  • BRING FLOWERS TO SOMEONE DAY | May 15

    BRING FLOWERS TO SOMEONE DAY

    April showers means May 15 is Bring Flowers to Someone Day to celebrate why giving flowers plays a significant roll in kindness.

    #BRINGFLOWERSTOSOMEONEDAY

    Flowers are one of nature’s most beautiful gifts. Bring Flowers to Someone Day is the perfect way to give the gift of love and kindness to those around you. Whether you gift flowers to show sympathy or give them just because, the simple act of giving flowers brings joy to the recipient.

    The act of giving flowers has been a custom dating back ancient times. History documents flowers as an important part of the social customs of Chinese, Egyptian, Greek, and Roman cultures. In fact, Greek mythology contains references of giving flowers relating to gods and goddesses. During the Middle Ages, the English and French said there was meaning behind flowers that determined when a flower given.

    In the 1950s, American archaeologist Ralph Solecki and and his team found evidence of giving flowers. During a excavation in Iraqi Kurdistan, the team found remains of Neanderthals 200,000 years old. One of the sites showed evidence of flowers embedded in the burial sites. Though the expedition remains under question today, the dig does in fact prove flowers have been a part of the burial process for ages.

    The Victorian era seems to be the beginning of giving flowers as a demonstration of feelings. During this time, it was not customary for people to “show” their emotions or feelings. In fact, portraying emotions was bad manners. However, giving flowers was a way to express feelings about a person or situation. In addition, there were rules attached to flower giving. For instance, if someone gave a bouquet of roses to another and presented them upside down, the receiver would assume the flowers were given out of anger.

    What is Floriography? In technical terms, Floriography is the language of flowers. For centuries, cultures have said flowers tell a story based on the meaning of the flower. Each flower carries a special meaning with certain symbolism behind the flower. Today, florists use Floriography when designing flowers for any occasion to ensure the flowers chosen have significant meaning in the arrangement.

    10 FLOWER MEANINGS

    1. Baby’s breath – Everlasting love
    2. White Carnations – Incense and purity
    3. Yellow Carnations – Sadness or gloom
    4. Calla Lilies – Beauty
    5. Daisies – Loyalty
    6. Gardenias – Secret love
    7. Magnolias – Lover of nature
    8. Peonies – Happy
    9. Sunflowers – Adoring
    10. Yellow Tulips – Bright smile

    Why do people give flowers? People give flowers for different reasons because giving flowers is a universal way to express love, support, and sympathy. Many give them on special occasions, such as a birthday or for Mother’s Day. Other people present them as an arrangement for a funeral showing sympathy. Whether you give flowers for love, sympathy, an apology, or as sympathy, flowers lift spirits and spread happiness.

    5 Rare Flowers

    1. Roses are considered to be the most beautiful flower in the world.
    2. The agave americana takes 100 years to bloom.
    3. Middlemist Red flowers are the rarest flowers in the world and only found in London and New Zealand.
    4. Kadupul Flowers are the most expensive flower in the world not only because they are rare, but because they only live a few hours then die.
    5. A giant nolina is found in the Kingston Mountains of the Mojave Desert and no where else in the world.
    The Language of Flowers
    There is a language, little known,
    Lovers claim it as their own.
    Its symbols smile upon the land,
    Wrought by nature’s wondrous hand;
    And in their silent beauty speak,
    Of life and joy, to those who seek
    For Love Divine and sunny hours
    In the language of the flowers.
    (London, 1875)

    BRING FLOWERS TO SOMEONE DAY

    1. Bring flowers to a family member or friend for no special reason.
    2. Attend a flower arrangement class.
    3. Plant a colorful flower garden.
    4. Share all of your flower on social media using #BringFlowersToSomeoneDay.

    Similar National Days on the Calendar

  • NATIONAL CLASSIC MOVIE DAY | May 16

    NATIONAL CLASSIC MOVIE DAY

    Today is May 16 and we are celebrating National Classic Movie Day by reminiscing about the movies we have seen on the big screen. Grab some popcorn, a drink, and find a cozy chair to relax in as we celebrate National Classic Movie Day.

    #CLASSICMOVIEDAY

    National Classic Movie Day presents an opportunity to celebrate the film industry and put spotlight on iconic movies that remain favorites through the years. We are using today’s National Day on May 16 to remember stories on the big screen that became a legacy by shaping culture.

    What do we consider a classic movie? Many critics define a classic movie as any movie that is memorable or makes an impact on society. A true classic movie impacts pop culture, influences society, and remains a part of our lives. In fact, a classic movie is one that has or will withstand the test of time and remain memorable through generations.

    10 CLASSIC MOVIE TRAITS

    Every classic movie contains pieces to a large puzzle. Joining these pieces together takes time, dedication, vision, and creativity beginning with the screen writer to final productions. Classic movies can be of any genre, including comedy, suspense, action, thriller, drama, time piece, or romance. Classic movies:

    1. Tell a story through iconic characters that inspire us.
    2. Contain ideas we can relate to and that seem relevant to our current lives.
    3. Provide iconic scenes from exotic locations people wish to visit.
    4. Contain exceptional graphics, acting, music, and storylines.
    5. Address humanism by including experiences, emotion, and even conflict that carry over through time.
    6. Incorporate social, political, or historical information that captures the time period of the film.
    7. Maintain a popular fan base and gain new fans as time goes on.
    8. Present opportunity to re-watch the movie on a variety of platforms, such as the big screen, television, and streaming services.
    9. Pioneer historical topics that push boundaries in society.
    10. Recognize praise by critics in the industry before receiving positive reviews and awards.

    Every great movie contains an ending that leaves us feeling some sort of emotion. Whether the ending is sad, triumphant, or empowering, the movie ending is what makes us walk away feeling content. Sometimes we feel an internal feeling of sadness after the ending of a movie. However, we also feel happiness because our perception of the ending was fitting. Is this what sends us back to watch a movie again and again?

    The Golden Age

    The Golden Age in film began in 1927 and ended around 1959. It was during this time Hollywood began producing iconic films containing advancements in picture quality and sound. In fact, film historians often say 1939 was the most memorable year in movie history.

    6 Classic Movies Released in 1939

    1. The Wizard of Oz
    2. Gone With The Wind
    3. Of Mice and Men
    4. The Little Princess
    5. Mr. Smith Goes to Washington
    6. Wuthering Heights

    Can a contemporary movie be considered a classic? Yes! When we think of a classic movie, we often think of a movie in black and white. However, many movies of modern time have become classics. Movies like Jaws, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, the Star Wars Saga, and Star Trek Saga have become iconic classics from the 1970s and 1980s. In fact, movies like Avatar and John Wick are current box office hits that have already claimed the classic title because their creators keep us at the edge of our seats wanting more.

    A CLASSIC MOVIE CELEBRATION

    1. Learn about the history behind the movie industry.
    2. Host a watch party for your classic movie.
    3. Introduce a friend to your favorite black and white movie.
    4. Share your favorite classic movie using #NationalClassicMovieDay on social media.

    CREATOR BEHIND TODAY

    Each year on May 16, we celebrate National Classic Movie Day to bring spotlight to iconic movies that remain favorites through the years. Today, we want to remember stories on the big screen that became a legacy by shaping culture.

    Similar National Days on the Calendar:

  • NATIONAL PEO WEEK | 3rd Full Week in May

    NATIONAL PEO WEEK

    Today is the beginning of the third week in May and we are kicking off the week celebrating National PEO Week. This week long celebration honors the contributions made by the professional employer organization (PEO).

    #NATIONALPEOWEEK

    Every day the PEO provides human resource (HR) services to hundreds of thousands of small and mid-sized businesses that employ more than 4 million people. National PEO Week recognizes the PEO industry for what they do to help our nation’s small businesses and their employees prosper.

    Professional employer organizations play a critical role in helping the businesses that are the backbone of our economy survive and thrive, particularly during challenging times. In fact, PEOs ensure their clients stay afloat by offering and securing services, managing employee leave and furloughs, and applying for available assistance during times of duress.

    Businesses that partner with a PEO are 50 percent less likely go out of business. In addition, PEOs help reduce employee turnover. Working with a PEO can help any small businesses improve productivity and profitability so they can focus on their core mission and grow.

    What can a PEO do for a business? Through a PEO, the employees of small businesses gain access to important employee benefits such as:

    1. 401(k) plans
    2. Health
    3. Dental
    4. Insurance
    5. Dependent care
    6. Other benefits not typically available to employees of a small company.

    Professional employer organizations are specialists in the HR space. Dealing with issues of discrimination, diversity, and opportunity brings a positive force to the businesses they represent. They provide specialized services in payroll, benefits, and HR services, along with compliance issues for state and federal law. By eliminating the stresses of maintaining employee benefits, businesses have the ability to focus on growing their business without worrying about HR aspects.

    5 TIPS TO HELP CHOOSE A PEO

    1. Assess your workplace to determine your HR and risk management needs.
    2. Decide if a PEO is capable of meeting your company goals.
    3. Research and investigate your PEO prospect, including checking client and professional references, National Association of Professional Employer Organizations membership, plus state and federal certifications.
    4. Work with your PEO to determine what services fit your employees and business.
    5. Review all documents before agreeing to any terms or conditions.

    Why are PEOs Important? Most businesses have very little time for HR issues because they are too busy focusing on other areas of their business. Unfortunately, this causes many companies to lose out on benefits. Businesses that work with a PEO receive a variety of services, including payroll, taxes, workers compensation, and much more. A PEO can help a business by:

    1. Sharing liability in areas of benefits, payroll, taxes, and workers’ compensation.
    2. Helping businesses access better benefit options and lower rates on insurance.
    3. Handling all payroll services, including distribution of wages and keeping track of vacation and paid time off.
    4. Filing reports and tax payments on local, state, and federal levels.
    5. Lowering overhead costs within the business, helping businesses have a better return on investments.

    CELEBRATING #NationalPEOWeek

    • Learn about the important contributions of the PEO industry, such as payroll, employee benefits, compliance assistance, and HR services.
    • Attend the annual PEO Capitol Summit, which is the annual legal and legislative conference in Washington DC.
    • Help others understand the important and broad impact of the PEO industry on the small business sector and the economy overall.
    • Celebrate with your employees and post your events on social media using #NationalPEOWeek.

    NATIONAL PEO WEEK

    National Day Calendar and The National Association of Professional Employer Organizations (NAPEO) began collaboration in 2023 to create National PEO Week. Each year beginning of the third week in May, We will honor and celebrate PEOs everywhere.

    To grow, promote, and support the professional employer organization (PEO) industry.

    NAPEO MISSION STATEMENT

    NAPEO

    The National Association of Professional Employer Organizations advocates for the businesses they represent. By providing payroll, benefits, regulatory compliance assistance, and other HR services to small and mid-sized companies, businesses can focus on growing in their industry. NAPEO provides resources, networking and referrals, education, and support to all of their clients.

    Visit the NAPEO website to learn more about PEOs.

  • NATIONAL SUGARBEE® APPLE DAY | May 20

    NATIONAL SUGARBEE® APPLE DAY

    Today is May 20 and we want everyone to grab a crispy, juicy SugarBee® apple and enjoy the un-bee-lievable eating experience as you celebrate National SugarBee® Apple Day.

    #SUGARBEEAPPLEDAY

    SugarBee® apples were developed by honeybees. One sunny day an adventurous honeybee was flying through the orchards collecting pollen. The bee transferred pollen from an unknown apple variety to a Honeycrisp apple blossom. Mother Nature did her part and the SugarBee® apple was born!

    SugarBee® apples are a naturally occurring apple variety grown in Washington state. Their crisp juiciness and honey sweet flavor provide a wonderful apple eating experience. In fact, they are perfect for snacking, baking, saucing, and juicing.

    SugarBee® apples also have great versatility and nutritional value. They are sweeter and crispier than most apples and have a touch of acidity that adds a complexity to make you crave your next bite.

    What is a SugarBee® Apple?

    1. An all-natural premium apple variety created by honeybees!
    2. Notes of honey, caramel and molasses.
    3. Crisp, firm texture, and a crunchy bite.
    4. Juicy, aromatic and just the right amount of sweetness.
    5. Perfect for a variety of seasonal treats like caramel apples, ciders and more.
    6. Pairs well with cheeses like smoked gouda and sharp cheddar

    “Oh Honey, that’s good!”™

    SugarBee® Apples

    Many of our SugarBee® growers are part of 4th and 5th generation families who are passionate about growing high quality apples, pears, and cherries. They are committed to best agriculture and business practices so their families can continue to farm for future generations. In fact, the growers work hard to grow fresh, healthy, crisp, and tasty apples for families to enjoy around the world.

    Most apples need pollen from a different variety of apple to set fruit. Through the process known as “cross-pollination,” orchardists work hard to ensure compatible varieties are planted near one another so the apples will be juicy and sweet. Today’s National Day is dedicated to the SugarBee® variety of fresh apples and the growers who bring them to us.

    A Bite of Apple History

    Some historians believe apples were domesticated anywhere between 4000-10,000 years ago in the Tian Shan mountains in central Asia. Sometime during the late 16th century, French Jesuits brought seeds to North America. Since then, over 200 different varieties of apples are available, with SugarBee® apples being one of the tastiest available.

    SWEET & CRISP CELEBRATIONS

    • Visit an orchard in Washington state that grows SugarBee® apples.
    • Attend an apple festival near you.
    • Buy some SugarBee® apples.
    • Try our Apple Strudel recipe using SugarBee® apples.
    • Make apple butter using SugarBee® apples.
    • Bob for apples using the SugarBee® apple as the grand prize.
    • Share your love for SugarBee® apples on social media using #SugarBeeAppleDay.

    INTRODUCING NATIONAL SUGARBEE® APPLE DAY

    National Day Calendar® and Chelan Fresh began working together in 2023 to establish National SugarBee® Apple Day. Each year on May 20, we encourage everyone to grab a crispy, juicy SugarBee® Apple and enjoy the honey sweet flavor.

    Chuck Nystrom receives credit for developing the SugarBee® apple. The Minnesota native discovered the apple after an accidental cross pollination between the Honeycrisp and an unknown variety. Over a thousand miles away in the elevated orchards of North Central Washington state, word of this sweet new apple made its way growers. Everyone agreed “Oh honey, that’s good!”. Thanks to North Central Washington’s warm summer days, cool evening breezes and fertile valleys, orchards offer the ideal growing conditions for the apple.

    Instagram Icon

    What other apple days on the National Day Calendar?

    1. National Apple Pie Day | May 13
    2. National Apple Strudel Day | June 17
    3. National Apple Turnover Day | July 5
    4. National Apple Dumpling Day | September 17
    5. National Apple Betty Day | October 5
    6. National Apple Month | October
  • NATIONAL TOURISM DAY | May 7

    NATIONAL TOURISM DAY

    Travel enthusiasts focus on travel planning while marketing professionals put their skills into increasing the local economy through tourism. On May 7th the two come together for National Tourism Day.

    #NationalTourismDay

    For those who travel it comes as no surprise when they find themselves receiving mailings and other offers to visit exotic places everywhere. Marketers in the tourism industry are hard at work seeking new ways to draw tourists to the communities.

    Travel professionals find themselves in between vacationers planning their next adventure and the destinations that wait. Whether visiting a mountain campground, beachside resort, or big city, travelers are wanted to boost local economies.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL TOURISM DAY

    Deciding where to go on your next vacation getaway is oftentimes difficult when trying to please everyone in the travel party. The team here at National Day Calendar recommends:

    • Calling state and local tourism offices for information to research areas you might enjoy visiting.
    • Talk with people you know who have already traveled to various destinations and seek their input.
    • Travel agencies too can still be beneficial information providers – Give them a call.
    • Check World Tourism Day for information on international travel too.

    NATIONAL TOURISM DAY HISTORY

    Within our research, we are unable to locate information on the founding of National Tourism Day. If you ever find yourself in the Mandan, North Dakota area, you can find us at 712 West Main Street. Consider this your invitation to visit the home offices here at National Day Calendar.

    Tourism Day FAQ

    What is the #1 most popular destination spot in the world? None other than the symbol of Paris, the Eiffel Tower.

    What is the #1 destination spot in the U.S.? The National Mall in Washington DC. is the number one place people visiting in the U.S.

    Where is the #1 most visited city in the world? It might surprise you, however, the answer as of 2019 is Bangkok, Thailand. Interesting, huh?

  • NATIONAL SAPPHIRE SEGULAH DAY | May 12

    NATIONAL SAPPHIRE SEGULAH DAY | May 12

    National Sapphire Segulah Day on May 12 is a day of gratitude for single parents of special needs children to remind them their service and sacrifices of love are seen, appreciated, and not in vain.

    #SapphireSegulahDay

    Single parents of special needs children deserve a day especially for them to celebrate the sacrifice they make every day caring for their child. The job is stressful, to say the least. Their days are busy, and so are their nights. Many go days with very little sleep, or no sleep at all. In addition, there is the endless advocating to make sure their child has access to services and support to help them live their best quality of life. Today, let’s show our gratitude for those single parents and let them know just how much we appreciate them.

    What does Sapphire Segulah Mean? 

    In the Hebrew language “Sapphire” means “Precious” and “Segulah” means “Peculiar Treasure.” While we refer to children that are born with disabilities as “special needs,” they are so much more. They are a combination of special, some peculiar, but all are a treasure. A Precious Peculiar Treasure.

    Most parents of special needs children don’t start out being single. In fact, many were in long-term marriages or relationships. Unfortunately, the new and unknown challenges of caring for a child with special needs often tests the strength and bonds of marriage and relationships. As a result, separation or divorce leaves one parent to care for a child with special needs. However, single parents have the strength to continue parenting alone because they know their Precious Peculiar Treasure is the most rewarding gift they will receive.

    Tips for Single Parents 

    Caring for children with a disability can be challenging, but very rewarding, too. By simply showing love and providing a positive environment, they are encouraging their child to thrive. Single parents can raise their treasure successfully.

    • Set up a routine for your child, including bedtime, meals, chores, homework, and quiet time.
    • Practice self-care to avoid additional stress, anger, or depression.
    • Encourage your child by supporting positive reinforcement and praise.
    • Keep your child’s environment full of structure, including a set of rules for reinforcement.
    • Be helpful, loving, and compassionate to your child, especially during times change.

    To be trusted with such a precious commodity, is indeed the highest honor, and one that is truly special. I wouldn’t change it for the world. ~La Dana Lucious on being a parent to her Precious Peculiar Treasure

    Words of Encouragement

    Being a single parent is a hard job. Being a single parent to a child with disabilities is a harder job. Sometimes, it may seem like nothing is going as planned. Remember, you are one of many navigating this adventure. In fact, you are a superstar to your child!

    You manage the life of a peculiar treasure normal parents could never imagine. You are a therapist, a doctor, a nurse, and friend to your child. You are appreciated and admired by those in your life who see you going above and beyond to provide care and comfort to your little treasure. The next time you feel overwhelmed, upset, or confused, think about the wonderful life you are providing your child.

    Today, we celebrate you! We want you to brag about the accomplishments you and your child have reached together. Share your passion to provide a stable and productive life for your child. You deserve to let the world know that even though you get tired, frustrated, and maybe upset, there is not a single mountain you wouldn’t climb to help your peculiar treasure feel love.

    SAPPHIRE SEGULAH CELEBRATION

    • Learn about resources through your local social service agency to help with your child’s needs.
    • Join an organization that supports single parents raising children with disabilities.
    • Accept help from family members when they offer.
    • Take time for yourself when possible to decompress and reset your mind.
    • Offer to clean, run errands, shop, or babysit to give single parents a break.
    • Get active in your local education system by volunteering your time.
    • Volunteer for your local Special Olympics or other activities that support disabled children in your community.
    • Send a note of gratitude to a single parent who cares for their special needs child.
    • Buy a gift card and offer to babysit for a single parent to allow them time away from the home.
    • Visit sapphire-segulah.com to learn more about the non-profit organization that is going the extra mile to support single parents of children with disabilities.
    • Share your story and photos of you and your special needs child on social media using #SapphireSegulahDay.

    FOUNDER 

    In 2022, National Day Calendar and La Dana Lucious of Great Exploit Ministries began working together to create National Sapphire Segulah Day. Each year on May 12, we use the entire day to show gratitude for the single parents of special needs children.

    Great Exploit Ministries is a non-profit organization offering ministry and advocacy resources to an ever-increasing population of single parents caring for their special needs children.

  • NATIONAL SELF-EMPLOYED DAY | May 4

    NATIONAL SELF-EMPLOYED DAY | May 4

    National Self-Employed Day on May 4 honors the dedicated individuals that bravely venture out to create their own business to support themselves, their families, and their community.

    #NationalSelfEmployedDay

    Self-employed business owners are amongst the hardest working individuals you’ll ever meet. They  continuously strive to meet their goals to be successful. The self-employed business owner never quits and faces every obstacles they encounter head on. In fact, there is very little that can stop a self-employed business owner from succeeding. 

    What Does Self-Employed Mean?

    Being self-employed means a person does not work for a specific employer or business. Instead, they work for themselves and earn their income by doing business directly. Even though self-employment provides more job flexibility and freedom, it also requires a lot of commitment and dedication. A self-employed person must devote valuable time and energy to earn their wages and pay their bills.

    Controlling Your Destiny

    As a self-employed individual, you are in complete control of your destiny. Your passion to move forward and become an independent employee enables you to take your dream as far as you want. You have creative control over your ideas and how you want to implement them. In fact, you choose your own work environment, which includes whether or not you want or need employees to help you on your journey.

    Establishing self-employment allows you to grow your knowledge and fine-tune your skill set. Your learning curve never ends because being self-employed gives enough variety in your daily routine to allow constant growth. In fact, self-employment helps you build and create your own network of clients.

    Network building when you are self-employed is an important piece of your success. By increasing your network, you learn more about business than your realize from your peers. In addition, you learn from their successes and failures, which help you make better decisions for yourself in the long run. A good, strong network brings a group of like-minded people together, yourself included, that encourage, help, and assist each other as your businesses grow.

    CELEBRATING SELF-EMPLOYMENT

    • Learn about how to become self-employed.
    • Take a class about owning a business.
    • Support the local self-employed business owners in your community.
    • Take a self-employed friend or family member out to dinner to celebrate their accomplishments.
    • Offer to speak at a start-up networking gathering to share your experience with others who are looking to start a new business to become self-employed.
    • Lend a helping hand to a self-employed friend or family member by offering to file paperwork, answer phones, or look up contact information for potential clients.
    • Treat yourself to a little self-care time if you are a self-employed individual.
    • Share your love and support for the self-employed person in you life using #NationalSelfEmployedDay on social media.

    THE VOICE OF THE SELF-EMPLOYED

    In 2022, National Day Calendar formed a partnership with Jeffrey Shaw, the founder of The Self-Employed Business Institute. The collaboration created National Self-Employed Day to be celebrated each year on May 4.

    Jeffrey Shaw is the founder of the Voices of the Self-Employed advocacy group and The Self-Employed Business Institute. He is also the creator of The Self-Employed Summit. He is a well-known leader and advocate for self-employed business owners. As a speaker and small business coach, Jeffrey helps self-employed and small business owners gain control of their business in what seems like otherwise uncontrollable circumstances. Drawing on his experience as a renowned portrait photographer, Jeffrey shows business owners how to see business through a different lens. He shares strategies to compose the often-chaotic pieces of life and business into sustainable success.

    In addition, Jeffrey is also a sought-after keynote speaker whose TEDxLincolnSquare talk is featured on TED.com. He has a passion for bringing his message to audiences through live and virtual presentations.

    Printed Publications

    • The Self-Employed Life: Business and Personal Development Strategies That Create Sustainable Success
    • LINGO: Discover Your Ideal Customer’s Secret Language and Make Your Business Irresistible.