Category: May 21

  • INTERNATIONAL TEA DAY UN – May 21

    INTERNATIONAL TEA DAY UN

    Every year on May 21st, International Tea Day promotes ways to sustain the production and consumption of tea. It’s also a day to spread awareness of the importance of tea in fighting hunger and poverty.

    #InternationalTeaDay

    You might be surprised to know that tea (not coffee) is the preferred beverage of choice for millions of people in the world. The global per capita consumption of tea is 35.2 liters. Every second, people consume 25,000 cups of tea. This equals 2.16 billion cups of tea per day.

    As the world population increases, so will the number of tea drinkers. Tea is especially popular in India and China. These two countries account for 37% of the world’s total population. Tea has a rich history in the world. According to legend, Emperor Shen Hung discovered tea when leaves from a tree blew into his pot of boiling water. This event happened in ancient China nearly 5,000 years ago. People in China and around the world have been drinking tea ever since.

    Besides drinking it for taste, many tea drinkers enjoy the many health benefits of tea. These benefits include:

    • Contains antioxidants
    • Reduces one’s risk of heart attack and stroke
    • Aids with weight loss
    • Protects the bones
    • Prevents tooth loss
    • Boosts the immune system
    • Helps battle cancer
    • Soothes the digestive system
    • Helps the body to feel more relaxed

    According to one particular study, habitual tea drinkers were less likely to die prematurely. These people drank tea at least 3 times a week. Green tea seems to have more health benefits than black tea.

    HOW TO OBSERVE INTERNATIONAL TEA DAY

    Tea producers hold events on this day to educate the public on the importance of this beverage. Teahouses host tea-tasting events and people throughout the world gather together for tea parties. The best way to participate is to drink a cup of tea. You can make it at home, or gather at a teahouse with some friends. Be sure to try a flavor of tea you’ve never had before. Share your favorite tea on social media with #InternationalTeaDay.

    INTERNATIONAL TEA DAY HISTORY

    Ever since 2005, tea-producing countries banded together to celebrate an International Tea Day. These countries included Sri Lanka, Nepal, Indonesia, Kenya, Malaysia, and Uganda. In 2019, the Intergovernmental Group on Tea proposed to celebrate International Tea Day on May 21st. The UN approved the proposal on December 21, 2019. The first official UN-sanctioned International Tea Day was held on May 21st, 2020.

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  • WORLD DAY FOR CULTURAL DIVERSITY – May 21

    WORLD DAY FOR CULTURAL DIVERSITY

    Every year on May 21st, the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development urges everyone to do their part to bridge the gap between cultures. The day is often referred to as Diversity Day.

    #DiversityDay

    According to the UN, bridging this gap is essential for peace, development, and stability. When we deepen our understanding of the values of cultural diversity we can achieve these four goals:

    • Support sustainable systems for the governance of culture.
    • Achieve a balanced flow of cultural goods and services.
    • Integrate culture into the frameworks of sustainable development.
    • Promote human rights and fundamental freedoms.

    These four goals were established during the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions.
    Besides achieving these goals, embracing other cultures helps us to lead more fulfilling lives. This fulfillment happens intellectually, spiritually, and morally. How exactly do we embrace other cultures? It all begins by having a dialogue between those who are different than us. Other ways to embrace our differences is to develop respect and mutual understanding for different cultures and those of other faiths.

    When we focus on embracing other cultures, we help improve many sectors of our lives. These sectors include education, science, health, and the environment. Many also believe that bridging culture gaps can help to eradicate poverty.

    HOW TO OBSERVE DIVERSITY DAY

    UNESCO encourages Member States and members of society to take part in this day. Cultural diversity events are held around the world. These events include concerts, educational seminars, workshops, and exhibitions. Here are some of the many ways you can participate:

    • Visit an art exhibition or a museum dedicated to other cultures
    • Learn about another religion
    • Watch an International film
    • Listen to a musical tradition from a different culture
    • Play a sport related to a different culture (Karate, Criquet)
    • Cook traditional food from a different culture
    • Learn about traditional celebrations from other cultures
    • Volunteer with an organization working for diversity and inclusion
    • Learn another language

    Use #WorldDayForCulturalDiversity or #DiversityDay to share on social media.

    WORLD DAY FOR CULTURAL DIVERSITY HISTORY

    UNESCO adopted the Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity in December 2001. In December 2002, the UN General Assembly declared May 21st as the World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development.

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  • NATIONAL TAKE YOUR PARENTS TO THE PLAYGROUND DAY – Third Sunday in May

    NATIONAL TAKE YOUR PARENTS TO THE PLAYGROUND DAY

    Kids, you work hard every day. It’s time to show your parents just how hard you work.  After all, your primary job is to play, and the third Sunday in May is National Take Your Parents to the Playground Day!

    Outdoor play offers the obvious benefit of physical activity, helping to build strong muscles and bones. It also engages the child’s imagination, which contributes to developing creativity as well as self-confidence.  But, a child’s work doesn’t stop there. Playing with others includes games, focus, and attention.  As a result, playing teaches leadership and negotiation skills. The more children play, the healthier, smarter, and happier they are.

    Include all these benefits with the celebration, and the value of play is increased exponentially because the whole family is involved.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #TakeYourParentsToThePlaygroundDay

    Find the closest playground, and take your parents to work.  Use #TakeYourParentsToThePlaygroundDay to share on social media.

    NATIONAL TAKE YOUR PARENTS TO THE PLAYGROUND DAY HISTORY

    PDPlay first founded Take Your Parents to the Playground Day on April 4, 2009, to motivate children to get outdoors and take their parents to their workplace. Take Your Parents to the Playground Day follows Children & Nature Awareness Month, an event established by the Children & Nature Network (C&NN) to call attention to the importance of providing opportunities for all children to experience frequent, regular play in natural outdoor settings. National Take Your Parents to the Playground Day offers an excellent opportunity to continue the initiative’s message with families throughout the year.

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  • NATIONAL MEMO DAY – May 21

    NATIONAL MEMO DAY | May 21

    Each year on May 21st, we recognize National Memo Day. We will send you a reminder, just in case you forget.

    #NationalMemoDay

    A memo, short for a memorandum, is a document or other communication, intended to inform a group of people about a specific topic. Usually used in an office setting, memos serve a variety of purposes. A memo may be a note, email, or other record made for future use. It is produced as a written message, especially in business or diplomacy.

    These missives also have gained a bad reputation by slipping into the wrong hands. In the modern world, that means shared infinitely on social media. When the messages contain proprietary business information, state secrets, or passionate opinions, memos are usually best kept out of print.

    The observance aims to reduce the number of memos issued in the workplace. It also hopes that memo writers keep their messages brief and to the point.

    HOW TO OBSERVE NATIONAL MEMO DAY

    To: National Day Calendar Audience

    From: National Day Calendar

    Develop your memo-writing skills. Reduce the number of memos you send. If you never send memos, maybe send a memo to celebrate the day with tips and suggestions.

    • Know your audience
    • Keep them short and to the point
    • Date them
    • Proofread them

    Don’t forget to summarize your message and share your memos using #NationalMemoDay on social media.

    Educators and Families, visit the National Day Calendar Classroom for projects and ideas designed to #CelebrateEveryDay. This week we include a time capsule project perfect for sending a memo to yourself.

    NATIONAL MEMO DAY HISTORY HISTORY

    In 1989, KMJI Majic Radio 100 FM out of Denver, Colorado, created the observance to shine a spotlight on the mountain of memos flooding the American workplace.

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  • NATIONAL STRAWBERRIES AND CREAM DAY – May 21

    NATIONAL STRAWBERRIES AND CREAM DAY | May 21

    Each year on May 21st, we combine two favorites for a celebration on National Strawberries and Cream Day. Fresh strawberries and homemade whipped cream is a must when strawberries are in season. They are the perfect, refreshing, light snack on a beautifully warm day!

    #StrawberriesAndCreamDay

    With these bright red berries in season, it should be no surprise that it’s also National Strawberry Month. Strawberries are a very healthy snack as they are low-fat, low in calories, and an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, folic acid, and potassium.

    Strawberries grow all over the world. Not only are they delicious, but they are also fragrant. With over 600 varieties, we have quite a few to choose from, too.

    While strawberries and cream makes a great dessert, it can also be eaten for breakfast or a snack. You can also add a little granola for texture. If you enjoy chocolate, drizzle a little on top. No matter how you enjoy your strawberries, you just cannot go wrong with this treat.

    HOW TO OBSERVE STRAWBERRY AND CREAM DAY

    Pick up some strawberries and whipping cream to celebrate the day. Enjoy this  Strawberries and Cream recipe.

    Use #StrawberriesAndCreamDay to post on social media.

    NATIONAL STRAWBERRIES AND CREAM DAY HISTORY

    National Day Calendar continues researching the origins of this sweet berry holiday. While we do, enjoy these other strawberry holidays:

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  • NATIONAL WAITSTAFF DAY – May 21

    NATIONAL WAITSTAFF DAY | MAY 21

    On May 21st, National Waitstaff Day recognizes the dedicated and often talented waitstaff. We are encouraged to show appreciation to all waitstaff for making our dining experiences enjoyable. At the same time, restaurant owners and managers also recognize and express their appreciation for their team of waitstaff. They help restaurants thrive.

    #NationalWaitstaffDay

    Waitstaff, servers, are a big determining factor in the quality of your dining encounter. They serve as the communicator between the diner and the kitchen. While meeting the needs of several tables at once, they also represent the restaurant. Seasoned waitstaff are knowledgeable and efficient. They are key to creating an extraordinary dining experience. The food may be delicious, but their attentiveness and attitude can make or change the whole experience.

    Most waitstaff go out of their way to ensure you receive excellent service and ensure that you have the best time possible. They fill your drinks before you ask, bring extra bread, rolls or chips, give honest recommendations on food choices when asked, and are a valuable asset to any restaurant.  Excellent servers turn diners into regulars who are known by name.

    HOW TO OBSERVE National Waitstaff Day

    We recognize our servers each time we enjoy a restaurant meal by leaving them a tip. If you receive stellar service, tell them you appreciate the excellent service they provided and leave a more generous tip. Continue to frequent the restaurant and don’t hesitate to let the manager know just how well the waitstaff treated you. It doesn’t matter if you’re visiting a chain restaurant or a local favorite. Waitstaff deserve recognition for their stellar service, long hours on their feet, and smiling faces. Every restaurant owner knows their waitstaff are the face of their businesses.

    Have you received out-of-this-world service? Give the restaurant and the server a shout-out. Use #NationalWaitstaffDay to post on social media.

    NATIONAL WAITSTAFF DAY HISTORY

    Gaylord Ward founded the holiday to create an opportunity for restaurant owners and patrons to recognize excellence in their waitstaff.

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  • NATIONAL AMERICAN RED CROSS FOUNDER’S DAY – May 21

    NATIONAL AMERICAN RED CROSS FOUNDER’S DAY | MAY 21

    On May 21st, National American Red Cross Founder’s Day marks the anniversary of the American Red Cross. Clara Barton founded the American Red Cross in 1881 and became the first president of the organization. She led the organization for the next twenty-three years.

    #AmericanRedCrossFoundersDay

    The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization that provides assistance in the United States. It is the designated affiliate of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

    Headquartered in Washington D.C., the American Red Cross is governed by volunteers. In addition to domestic disaster relief, the American Red Cross also offers services in five other areas:

    • Community services to help the needy
    • Communications services and comfort for military members and their families
    • The collection, processing, and distribution of blood and blood products
    • Educational programs on preparedness, health, and safety
    • International relief and development programs

    Like many women during the American Civil War, Clara Barton (1821-1912) rolled up her sleeves, bandaging, and nursing wounded soldiers. Following the war in 1869, she traveled to Europe, and for several years Barton volunteered her time working with the International Red Cross during the Franco-Prussian War. Upon returning to the United States, she was determined to bring the Red Cross to America.

    HOW TO OBSERVE AMERICAN RED CROSS FOUNDER’S DAY

    Learn more about the American Red Cross, its founder, and its volunteers. Discover local Red Cross history and its impact in your community. Following are a few sites to help you get started:

    • A Story of the Red Cross by Clara Barton
    • Clara Barton by Elizabeth Brown Pryor
    • Blood, Sweat, and Tears: An Oral History of the American Red Cross by Michele Turk
    • www.redcross.org/

    Use #AmericanRedCrossFoundersDay to post on social media.

    NATIONAL AMERICAN RED CROSS FOUNDER’S DAY HISTORY

    National Day Calendar continues researching the origins of this Red Cross holiday.

    May 21st Celebrated History

    1819

    The Evening Post reports that the velocipede made its appearance in New York City with the inventor Karl Drais. According to the article, these two-wheeled machines (known as bicycles today) seemingly caused the price of a horse to drop!

    1881

    Following her experiences with the International Red Cross in Europe, Clara Barton brought the knowledge home to the United States and established the American Association of the Red Cross. Today, the organization is the American Red Cross.

    1901

    Connecticut passes the first speed limit legislation. Motor vehicles were restricted to a maximum of 12 mph in cities and 15 mph in the country.

    1929

    Sutro and Company of New York City and a member of the New York Stock Exchange became the first company to install the first automatic electric stock quotation board. Despite the advent of an electronic ticker, the ticker tape machine remained in use for more than 30 years.

    May 21st Celebrated Birthdays

    Mary Anning – 1799

    In 1821, the fossil hunter found a complete Ichthyosaurus. Two years later she became the first person to discover a complete Plesiosaurus skeleton.

    Glenn Curtiss – 1878

    The American aviation pioneer advanced aircraft development throughout his lifetime. As an innovator, Curtiss built motorcycles, planes, and several other machines including bicycles. Much like the Wright brothers, it was the bicycle that propelled the inventor toward flight.

    Regina Anderson – 1901

    A librarian for the New York Public Library, Anderson became an essential member of the Harlem Renaissance. She wrote plays and co-founded the Harlem Experimental Theatre.

    John C. Allen – 1907

    The American engineer gained recognition in the 1960s for his wooden roller coaster designs.

    Mr. T – 1952

    “I pity the fool!” ~ Mr. T

    Born Lawrence Tureaud, the American actor and professional wrestler came to prominence during the 1980s. Known for his role as B.A. Baracus in the A-Team, he also appeared in several films.

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