Category: May 13

  • NATIONAL DOG MOM’S DAY – Second Saturday in May

    NATIONAL DOG MOM’S DAY

    During the second Saturday in May, National Dog Mom’s Day sends out a chorus of yips, barks, and howls of praise for all the dog mommas!

    #DogMomsDay

    Our dogs are our family members, whether they came into our lives unexpectedly or as carefully planned additions. We adopt them as puppies, adolescents, or fully mature animals with a bit of baggage, and yet, we find common ground, a connection, and bond like families do. They know our moods, and we know theirs. We care for them, shelter them, and share an immeasurable loyalty with them.

    National Dog Mom’s Day recognizes the bond women share with their fur kids. When they humor us, charm us or even when they are naughty, they are like any other child to us.

    HOW TO OBSERVE DOG MOMS DAY

    Celebrate by making sure to get some extra cuddles. Bake up some yummy homemade puppy treats. Plan for some double pampering – a pedicure for you and paws for the puppers. Then take an extra special selfie with fur baby to mark the occasion.

    Use #DogMomsDay to share on social media.

    NATIONAL DOG MOM’S DAY HISTORY

    Dig – The Dog Person’s Dating App founded National Dog Mom’s Day to celebrate and thank the dog moms who dedicate their love and support every day to their dogs. It’s a different, special and visceral love that deserves its own day to be recognized and appreciated.

    The Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed National Dog Mom’s Day to be observed the second Saturday of May beginning in 2018.

    About Dig – The Dog Person’s Dating App
    Dog people are always looking for ways to get dogs in their lives. You’ll linger near the dog park’s fence, you’ll repeatedly offer to dog-sit while your friends are away, and you’ll scan every dating app for photos of potential matches with dogs at their sides. If you’re lucky enough to own a pup, you know that things never work out with someone if they’re not as into your dog as you are. So Dig founders Casey and Leigh Isaacson built a dating app that connects dog people based on what’s most important to them. Dig is the best way for dog lovers and dog owners to find a compatible date.

     
  • NATIONAL CROUTON DAY – May 13

    NATIONAL CROUTON DAY

    National Crouton Day on May 13th each year recognizes a tasty topping that shouldn’t be overlooked.

    #NationalCroutonDay

    Many of our words for bread-related foods come from the French and for good reason. The French love bread. Croutons are no different. The French word croûte means crust. Croutons are often made from day-old bread which has been cut into cubes and seasoned with herbs, oil, or butter. The bread is then either toasted in the oven or tossed in a hot pan until crunchy.

    We’re probably most familiar with croutons on our salads. And when we add croutons to our salads, it’s a bit of celebration – a crunch celebration. Each flavorful, crunchy bite adds to our crispy, enjoyment.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL CROUTON DAY

    Celebrate the day by topping your dish with seasoned croutons. Salads aren’t the only way to enjoy your croutons, either. Check out these outstanding ways to have your croutons and eat them, too in Croutons: 7 Ways Without Salad. You’ll also find some excellent tips and suggestions for your favorite salad topping. Be sure to also share your crouton creations by using #NationalCroutonDay on Social Media.

    NATIONAL CROUTON DAY HISTORY

    Rothbury Farms® founded National Crouton Day in February 2015. Established in 1923, Rothbury Farms is a fourth-generation, family-owned business where consumer value means using the highest quality goods to produce the very best products. At Rothbury Farms croutons are their passion. Rothbury Farms Croutons are made from fresh bread toasted to just the right crispness and then seasoned with a select blend of herbs, spices, and cheeses. Rothbury Farms Croutons are a versatile food and complement any time of the day from breakfast to lunch, to dinner, to snack time and are perfect for breakfast casseroles, bread puddings, salads, soups, stuffing, dinner casseroles, appetizers and also as snacks.

    In March 2015, the Registrar at National Day Calendar declared May 13th of each year as National Crouton Day.

    May 13th Celebrated History

    1890

    Inventor Nikola Tesla received patent no. 428,057 for an electric generator.

    1918

    The United States prints the first airmail stamps. The 24 cent stamps featured a picture of a Curtiss JN-4 bi-plane and ushered in the inaugural day of airmail service on May 15, 1918, between Washington, Philadelphia and New York.

    1973

    In an exhibition match touted as the “Battle of the Sexes,” Bobby Riggs and Margaret Court squared off. Court lost the charitable event 6-1, 6-2. However, Riggs had previously challenged Billy Jean King to a Battle of the Sexes, and he repeated the challenge. The pair’s showdown took place on September 20, 1973. This time, King brought home the win, 6-4, 6-3, 6-3.

    1995

    Alison Hargreaves reaches the summit of Everest. The 33-year-old from the United Kingdom was the first woman to climb the highest mountain in the world without the assistance of oxygen or Sherpas. Several months later in August, she and her team would scale K2 but never leave the mountain top due to a freak storm. She died on August 13, 1995.

    May 13th Celebrated Birthdays

    Inge Lehmann – 1888

    In 1936, Danish seismologist and geophysicist published a paper describing her discovery that Earth has a solid inner core. Throughout her career, she would continue to expand upon her research.

    Gil Evans – 1912

    The jazz musician and composer is best known for his influence of modern jazz styles including cool jazz, modal jazz, free jazz, and jazz fusion.

    Joe Louis – 1914

    Joe Louis dominated the boxing ring and earned his first heavyweight crown in 1937 when he knocked out James J. Braddock in the eighth round.

    Stevie Wonder – 1950

    The award-winning musician began his career at the young age of 11. He became a Motown legend, performing R&B, gospel, funk, jazz, and soul music for six decades.

  • NATIONAL ARCHERY DAY – Second Saturday in May

    NATIONAL ARCHERY DAY

    National Archery Day on the second Saturday in May recognizes one of the oldest sports still in existence. Archery has been around since before 2800 BC when bows were being used for hunting and battle.

    #NationalArcheryDay

    In 1900, the modern Olympic games introduced archery as an official event. However, it only appeared again in 1904, 1908 and 1920. Then once again after a long absence, archery returned in 1972.

    In recent years, archery’s growing popularity is piquing people’s interest. One supporting reason points to the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) that began in Kentucky in 2002. Since then, the program expanded to 47 states and 10 countries, with over 2.1 million kids participating each year. 

    Archery has benefits, too. Did you know that besides improving upper body strength, archery improves mental focus? Other benefits of archery include:

    • The sport (like many do) develops confidence.
    • Archery creates a sense of accomplishment.
    • It’s social! At events, people get to know one another and exchange tips, resources, and encouragement.
    • Archery can be practiced all year long.
    • Participants learn a lifelong respect for safety. 

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL ARCHERY DAY

    Celebrate National Archery in the Schools Program by sharing your archery activities using #NationalArcherySchoolsProgram on Social Media.

    NATIONAL ARCHERY DAY HISTORY

    National Archery Day was submitted by the National Archery in the Schools Program in March 2015. The second Saturday in May is generally the time the NASP tournament is held. This is the largest archery tournament in the world.  Each year kids from all over the U.S. look forward to traveling to Louisville, Kentucky, for this culminating event to end their school archery year.  The event draws over 11,500 students participating in NASP.

    The Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed National Archery Day in March 2015 to be observed on the 2nd Saturday of May, annually.

    Media Inquiries:  Visit https://naspschools.org/news/ for media inquiries, press releases, and other National Archery in the Schools Program news.

    National Archery in the Schools Program contact information:

    Roy Grimes

    President, CEO

    National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP®)

    (502) 600-2053

    rgrimes@nasparchery.com

  • NATIONAL TRAIN DAY – Discontinued by Amtrak in 2016

    NATIONAL TRAIN DAY

    Each year, National Train Day was observed annually on the Saturday closest to May 10th.

    #NationalTrainDay

    Trains revolutionized the world. The first railroad developed in Great Britain and initially used horses as power. These routes hauled limestone, coal, and other heavy materials long distances. Steam engines and the railroad were instrumental in westward expansion in the United States. Not only did it bring settlers West but they also brought the necessary supplies for them to start new lives.

    Trains have several different distinct categories that are separated by how their locomotives are powered, their use, and the design of their tracks.  A train is a form of rail transport consisting of a series of “cars” that usually run along a rail track. Trains transport cargo and passengers. A train’s speed can reach up to 350 mph.  

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL TRAIN DAY

    While Amtrak discontinued the observance in 2016, we can still celebrate trains, their history, and our fascination with them. Visit a train museum or take a trip by train. Learn how steam power moved the country westward. If you like to read, your library might have The Railways: Nation, Network and People by Simon Bradley or America’s Great Railroad Stations by Roger Straus, Hugh Van Dusen, Ed Breslin. Use #NationalTrainDay to share your experiences on social media.

    NATIONAL TRAIN DAY HISTORY

    Amtrak created National Train Day in 2008 as a method of spreading information to the general public about rail travel and the history of trains in the United States. Amtrak discontinued the day in 2016.

    DATES:
    7 May 2022
    13 May 2023
    11 May 2024
    10 May 2025
    9 May 2026
    8 May 2027
    13 May 2028
    12 May 2029
    11 May 2030

     

  • NATIONAL MINIATURE GOLF DAY – Second Saturday in May

    NATIONAL MINIATURE GOLF DAY

    Annually the second Saturday in May recognizes National Miniature Golf Day. This day is separate from Miniature Golf Day, which is celebrated worldwide on September 21.

    #NationaMiniGolfDay

    Similar to the sport of golf, but as the name suggests it is a miniature version of the game. While still played with a series of 9 or 18 holes, miniature golf courses are shorter, usually themed, and have a variety of obstacles that add to the difficulty of the game. 

    There also isn’t any need to call “FOUR” since only putters are used in this version. The distances are too short (usually about 10 yards) to use any of the other clubs in golf. Most courses consist of concrete or artificial turf so don’t worry about replacing any divots, either! The game also goes by the names mini-golf, midget golf, putt-putt, and peewee golf.

    Some of the more challenging miniature golf courses have waterfalls, caverns, and castles with drawbridges as part of their obstacle course.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL MINI GOLF DAY

    Watch out for the water hazards and the windmill! Meet your friends at your local miniature golf course and have a fun-filled day. While you’re out putting, share your photos using #NationalMiniGolfDay.

    NATIONAL MINIATURE GOLF DAY HISTORY

    The Illustrated London News had mention of the earliest documented minigolf course in its June 8, 1912, edition. The first standardized minigolf courses to enter into commercial mass-production were the Thistle Dhu course in 1916 in Pinehurst, North Carolina, and the Tom Thumb patent of Garnet Carter from Lookout Mountain, Tennessee in 1927.

    National Day Calendar continues researching the origins of this miniature sport holiday. 

  • NATIONAL BABYSITTER’S DAY – Saturday before Mother’s Day

     

    NATIONAL BABYSITTER’S DAY

    National Babysitter’s Day on Saturday before Mother’s Day honors the reliable babysitters across the country. On this day, we show babysitters appreciation and special recognition for their quality child care.  

    #NationalBabysittersDay

    Babysitting is not what it used to be. In certain parts of the country, babysitters earn a good chunk of the mighty dollar. Their skills factor into their hourly rates, too. Depending on the area of the country, sitters can demand anywhere from $12 to $20 an hour. 

    Money aside, they do provide fun and safe care so parents can have some time for some rest, a dinner, and maybe a movie. The youngest of babysitters take part in childcare classes that include child and infant CPR and first aid. No matter what age, babysitters provide care to children, but babysitters also involve the children in activities, games, and help with homework. Many babysitters leave a lasting and inspiring impact on our children. Much like teachers, they are included in the set of role models children begin to collect from an early age. 

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL BABYSITTERS DAY

    Take advantage of the opportunity to show your appreciation for your babysitter.  Send them a special thank you gift of flowers, candy or a handmade thank you card from your little munchkins! Other ways to show your babysitter appreciation include:

    • create a video message to send to your babysitter
    • tell others how amazing your babysitter is – get caught praising them, too!
    • give a gift card to their favorite restaurant
    • create a small scrapbook of memories

    Some of us even remember the babysitters we had as children. Send those special people a message, too. While they likely don’t provide childcare any longer, they still hold a special place in our hearts. Share your appreciation on Social Media using #NationalBabysittersDay.

    NATIONAL BABYSITTER’S DAY HISTORY

    Safetywhys.com founded National Babysitter’s Day in 2003 to promote national appreciation and recognition of quality child care. 

     
  • CORNELIA DE LANGE SYNDROME AWARENESS DAY – Second Saturday in May

    CORNELIA DE LANGE SYNDROME AWARENESS DAY

    Observed annually on the second Saturday in May, Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Awareness Day sheds light on this often misdiagnosed, little-known syndrome.  

    #CorneliaDeLangeSyndromeAwarenessDay

    Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS) causes a range of physical, cognitive, and medical challenges.  It is a genetic disorder that even though present at birth, it is not always diagnosed at birth.  Affecting the physical and intellectual development of a child, CdLS is often known as Bushy Syndrome or Amsterdam dwarfism. CdLS can lead to severe developmental abnormalities affecting an estimated 1 in 10,000 to 30,000.

    While the condition may be visually present at birth, it often goes undiagnosed without the correct testing. Some testing via ultrasound exam can occur before birth. However, most testing takes place after birth. Part of the diagnosis process includes a careful examination of the infant. They will measure limbs, head, and face as well as check for cleft palate, diaphragmatic hernia, congenital heart disease, and gastrointestinal abnormalities. For those who present with mild symptoms, genetic testing may be necessary to identify if the gene mutations specific to CdLS have been impacted. 

    A Dutch physician by the name of Dr. Cornelia de Lange first described two patients with similar characteristics and symptoms in 1933. She is credited as being one of the first physicians to document the medical condition, its features, and the associated symptoms. 

    Many who have CdLS are unaware they even have it. The day aims to support research and better forms of diagnosis. For more information regarding CdLS day visit the CdLS Awareness Day website.

    HOW TO OBSERVE CORNELIA DE LANGE SYNDROME AWARENESS DAY

    Learn more about CdLS and support research into its prevention and treatment. Host a fundraiser or an awareness event to support those with CdLS. Use #CorneliaDeLangeSyndromeAwarenessDay to post on social media.

    CORNELIA DE LANGE SYNDROME AWARENESS DAY HISTORY

    The observance was founded in 1989 as an opportunity to educate everyone about this often misdiagnosed condition.  For more information on CdLS visit www.cdlsusa.org.

  • NATIONAL BIRTH MOTHER’S DAY – Saturday before Mother’s Day

     

    NATIONAL BIRTH MOTHER’S DAY

    National Birth Mother’s Day on the Saturday before Mother’s Day honors birth mothers and offers a show of support. It is a day to recognize the biological mothers of adopted children.

    #NationalBirthMothersDay

    Each birth mother’s experience is personal. While the day originated as a day of solidarity, education, and compassion, it has evolved and may be received with a mixture of emotions. It may also be viewed as a celebration of the life a birth mother has brought into the world and has chosen to share with another family. Children of adoption may even also participate in the day, celebrating their birth mothers and the life they gave them. 

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL BIRTH MOTHER’S DAY

    Approach National Birth Mother’s Day with gentleness and love. Everyone’s experience is different. It may be a day to learn about the adoption process. Understand that each birth mother comes to adoptions for different and very personal reasons. Families and birth mothers will experience this day differently from family to family. For some, it may be a quiet and solemn day spent bonding with other birth mothers. For others, the adoptive families and children may spend the day celebrating birth mothers with cards and gifts similar to Mother’s Day. 

    Quote markLife can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards ~ Soren Kierkegaard

    Use #NationalBirthMothersDay to share on social media. 

    NATIONAL BIRTH MOTHER’S DAY HISTORY

    Mary Jean Wolch-Marsh established National Birth Mother’s Day in 1990 to show support for birth mothers like herself.

     

  • STAMP OUT HUNGER FOOD DRIVE DAY – Second Saturday in May

    STAMP OUT HUNGER FOOD DRIVE DAY

    The second Saturday in May is the largest one-day food drive in the nation named Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day. How is it possible? It occurs in more than 10,000 cities and towns, and the food is collected by those men and women carrying our mail across the country.

    #StampOutHungerFoodDriveDay

    As they deliver to you mail order parts, bills, and postcards, you get to do your part by filling their mailbag with non-perishable food donations.

    Over the last 20 years, one billion pounds of food has been delivered by this drive which is sponsored by the National Association of Letter Carriers. The letter carriers representing the NALC receive help from rural letter carriers, other postal employees, and other volunteers. The Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive has received a number of accolades over the years, including two Presidential Certificates of Achievement.

    HOW TO OBSERVE STAMP OUT HUNGER FOOD DRIVE DAY

    Volunteer your time at your local post office to sort food gathered for the largest one-day food drive. Visit either of the following sites for more information on how to participate: www.nalc.org or www.usps.com. Leave non-perishable food items for your postal carrier to collect and deliver to food pantries as part of the drive. Drop off items at your local post office. Use #StampOutHungerFoodDrive to show your support for this worthy cause!

    NATIONAL STAMP OUT HUNGER FOOD DRIVE DAY HISTORY

    The Stamp out Hunger Food Drive started in October 1991 as a pilot program. After the initial success of the drive that took place in ten cities across the country, the program was moved to the spring. Food banks during this time of year struggle to meet demand as contributions dwindle after the holiday season.  

     

     
  • NATIONAL FRUIT COCKTAIL DAY – May 13

    NATIONAL FRUIT COCKTAIL DAY

    If you’ve been celebrating the food holidays routinely, National Fruit Cocktail Day on May 13th may be a way to improve the calorie count. Many of us have childhood memories of a dish of fruit cocktail regularly served with a meal.

    #FruitCocktailDay

    Fruit cocktail consists of various kinds of fruit served in a liquid of its juices or syrup. While we purchase it in cans and individual serving cups, we can also make it fresh with berries and other fruits. Cafeterias serve fruit cocktail as a healthy fruit option in schools and at buffets, too.

    Even though the word cocktail is in the name, fruit cocktail contains no alcohol. The term itself refers to a mixture and can be food or spirits. For example, the secondary definition of a cocktail is “An appetizer made by combining pieces of food, such as fruit or seafood.” 

    In the United States, the USDA stipulates that canned fruit cocktail must contain certain percentages of pears, grapes, cherries, peaches, and pineapples.

    William Vere Cruess of the University of California, Berkeley, and also Herbert Gray of the Barron-Gray Packing Company, San Jose, California have both been credited with the invention of fruit cocktail. 

    HOW TO OBSERVE FRUIT COCKTAIL DAY

    Serve some fruit cocktail with your meals or snack to celebrate. You could even make your own. We found a unique twist and delicious twist on fruit cocktail in this Mexican Fruit Cocktail Recipe. Another way to celebrate is by developing your own. Be sure to share your favorite combination using #FruitCocktailDay to post on social media.

    NATIONAL FRUIT COCKTAIL DAY HISTORY

    National Day Calendar continues researching the origins of this fruit-filled holiday.