MEDIA ALERT | NEW DAY PROCLAMATION | NATIONAL CROSSWORD SOLVERS DAY | DECEMBER 8
Coming on December 8 we celebrate National Crossword Solvers Day with nearly 50 million people who enjoy solving crossword puzzles. In November 2022, National Day Calendar welcomed National Crossword Solvers Day to our list of National Days. The day was introduced by professional crossword puzzle writer Myles Mellor, an international crossword puzzle publisher.
#NationalCrosswordSolversDay
Solving crossword puzzles is a favorite pastime for people across the globe. In fact, it is so popular, people who solve or write crossword puzzles have their own name–cruciverbalists! Today, we want to celebrate all the cruciverbalists in the world, plus encourage everyone to find a crossword puzzle and become a solver, too!
How Old Are Crossword Puzzles?
The crossword puzzle was first introduced in theNew York Worldnewspaper in 1913 by journalist Arthur Wynne. It was the eve of WWI and Wynne was looking for a new game for theFUNsection in the newspaper as a way to take people’s minds off the impending war. Wynne began by creating a blank word search grid. Each grid came with a list of clues for readers to use in solving the letters. The original puzzle was named “FUN’s Word-Cross Puzzle” and was interestingly found in the shape of a diamond. A few weeks later an editor made a typo naming the puzzle “Cross-Word.” This cross mistake became a historical game changer.
The first records of crossword puzzles are historically found to originate in England during the 19th century. Most of these puzzles were easy to solve, and usually printed in children’s books or periodicals. Meanwhile, Americans were turning crossword puzzle solving into an adult pastime. Today, crossword solvers have many choices in satisfying their puzzle cravings, including celebrating National Crossword Solvers Day in December every year.
What is a Crossword Puzzle?
A crossword puzzle is a diagram of white and black squares with a list of numbered clues, running across and down the grid. The black squares are blank fillers, while the white squares are for the answers for the clues. One letter for the answer goes in one square. Each clue corresponds with numbers on the puzzle, interlocking or crisscrossing each other. The goal of a crossword puzzle is to solve the clues by filling the white spaces with the answers to the clues.
Benefits of Solving Crossword Puzzles
People who solve crossword puzzles are often more relaxed, especially when trying to solve day-to-day problems. Many use their puzzle-solving skills indirectly by approaching stressful situations similar to how they approach solving puzzles. Slow, calculated, and with thought. Studies show solving crossword puzzles regularly has several health benefits, including:
Improving short-term memory skills.
Assisting in developing better problem-solving skills.
Increasing individual IQ by learning new vocabulary.
Helping delay dementia and Alzheimer symptoms in at-risk individuals.
Improving mood by lowering stress levels and teaching the brain to relax.
5 Fun Crossword Puzzle Facts
Arthur Wynne,New York Worldjournalist, published the first crossword puzzle in December 1913.
A cruciverbalist is a person who loves to create and solve crossword puzzles.
An estimated 50 million people in the US solve crossword puzzles.
In 2014, Bernice Gorden became the oldest person to publish a crossword puzzle in theNY Timesat the age of 101.
Solving crossword puzzles is beneficial to a person’s brain health.
CELEBRATING CROSSWORD SOLVERS
Solve the crossword puzzle in your newspaper or in a magazine.
Find a crossword puzzle app and start playing once a day to experience the health benefits.
Create a crossword puzzle for your friends and family.
Enterthe American Crossword Puzzle Tournament created and run by the legendary New York Times Crossword editor, Will Shortz.
Share your photos and videos of solving crossword puzzles on social media using #NationalCrosswordSolversDay.
MEET THE FOUNDER
In November 2022, National Day Calendar welcomed National Crossword Solvers Day to our list of National Days. The day was introduced by professional crossword puzzle writerMyles Mellor, an international crossword puzzle publisher.
To date, Myles has published over 17,000 crosswords and is one of the most successful and prolific crossword puzzle writers in the U.S. Myles actively publishes around 80 crossword puzzles per month, reaching 2 million people. Appearing in over 1,000 magazines, over 55 books, hundreds of weekly newspapers and across numerous websites, he continues to delight puzzle solvers every day.
Myles’ resume includes creating puzzles for executives and celebrities. He also creates personalized puzzles for weddings, engagements, birthdays and anniversaries.Myles gives back by providing weekly interactive crosswords to the San Diego Alzheimer’s organization. In addition to creating crossword puzzles, he also creates word searches, sudokus, and other puzzles. As a world-renowned puzzle creator and publisher, Myles works with Simon and Schuster, Barnes and Noble, Amazon, Books a Million and many other top publishers to bring his passion to crossword solvers everywhere.
Today is June 15 and we thought we would celebrate by throwing the newest, cleanest, and coolest party for National Foam Party Day! Imagine, a mountain of refreshing foam in your back yard piled six feet high!
#NationalFoamPartyDay
Beat the heat this summer by hosting a foam party and give your guests an unforgettable experience that is the latest party trend in America.
What is a foam party?
A foam party is exactly what it sounds like! A party with foam, hosted by a foam expert known as a “Foamologist”. The Foamologist shoots foam towards an empty space in your backyard or party area, using a foam cannon. Add music, lighting effects, a bubble machine, and a rinse station (for later) and you have a full-blown foam party. Plus, your guests receive party toys, play games and win prizes just for being at the party.
Are Foam Parties Safe?
Foam parties are safe for all ages. In fact, the foam used during foam parties are not only hypoallergenic, it’s also non-toxic. However, foam is a form of soap, so it’s recommended little ones wear swimming goggles during play. Luckily, foam parties have rinse stations as part of their package just in case someone get’s a little foam in their eyes. Don’t worry, clean up after a foam party is easy. The foam will dissipate on its own in under an hour or you can spray water on it to help speed up the process.
Types of Themed Foam Parties
There is nothing more exciting and entertaining than gathering with a close group of friends or family for a foam party. When choosing a theme for your foam party, you have the option to be specific to the occasion. Whether you decide on a kid friendly theme or an adult theme, working with the foam party company will help you bring your idea to reality. Here are a few ideas for your next foam party:
Beach or Luau
Pirate or Ocean Adventures
Winter Wonderland
Disco Party
Halloween
Types of Specialized Foam Parties
Foam party companies are able to mix a non-toxic dye into the solution and make colored foam. They can even make the foam glow at night by mixing in a special UV additive that will react to black lights!
Gender Reveal
Rainbow Party
Glow-in-the-Dark Party
Sensory-Friendly Party
Doggy Foam Pawty
What is a Sensory-Friendly Foam Party?
Party planners are able to request a special Sensory-Friendly version of a foam party that is custom designed for those with special needs. Guests are gradually introduced to the sights and sounds of a foam party, taking great care to ensure they feel comfortable and are able to enjoy the experience.
Companies like Foam Daddy have foam products that are a Certified Autism Resource by the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This credential is awarded to companies that provides resources to individuals with cognitive disorders.
What is a Doggy Foam Pawty?
Dogs love foam and this Pawty is just for them and their owners! Special music, toys, and treats will ensure our four-legged friends have a howling good time. You can bet your paws there will be plenty of great photo opportunities to be had!
Who Are Foam Parties For?
People have parties for any occasion, which is why foam parties are great options for any gathering. Whether you’re planning a birthday party, or planning a family reunion, a foam party will make you the party planner of the year!
Birthdays
Graduations
Company picnics
Family gatherings
Summer camps
Schools
Daycares
Carnivals
Fundraisers
Church events
Community events
Color and mud runs
Pet adoption days
Just because
Foam Party Facts
The first foam party dates back to the 1932 movie A Rhapsody in Black in Blue, where Louis Armstrong dances through foam while playing his trumpet.
Modern foam parties became popular during the 1990s on the island Ibiza in the Mediterranean sea.
Creators Weird Dream Productions receive credit for introducing the first foam dispenser when they would drop foam from the ceiling at dance clubs.
Roy Barlow from Entertainment Biz and Robin Wincup from Galaxy receive credit for the first foam cannon invention.
First appearing in the U.S. in 1993, foam parties were mostly found in European countries.
JOIN THE FOAM PARTY CRAZE
Hire a foam party company for your next gathering.
Give away a foam party to an organization that serves underprivileged kids in your area.
Learn about the different types of foam parties that will best fit your guest list.
Watch a foam party video to get an idea about how foam parties work before booking.
Book your foam party today.
Share your photos of your foam fun using #NationalFoamPartyDay on social media.
FOUNDER OF NATIONAL FOAM PARTY DAY
In 2022, National Day Calendar began working with FoamParty.com, Bubble Maniacs, and Foam Daddy to establish National Foam Party Day. Each year on June 15, we encourage everyone to celebrate the day by throwing a foam party to kick off the summer fun!
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.
Visitsapphire-segulah.comto 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 Sunkist® Citrus Day on March 1 honors the rich history of California citrus, recognizes the legacy of multi-generational, family-owned Sunkist citrus farms, and celebrates the many health and wellness benefits that Sunkist citrus provides.
#NationalSunkistCitrusDay
The Sunkist cooperative has a rich history of values and a legacy of multi-generational, family-owned citrus farms, and is delighted to celebrate its 130th anniversary this year.
Since 1893, Sunkist has been doing what they do best: growing citrus. What started as citrus growers in the late 1800s joining forces to collaborate and combine efforts, has evolved into more than 1,500 citrus grower members stretching across California and Arizona today. This is why Sunkist’s motto is “Stronger Together.”
Seed By Seed
The first Navel orange tree in California was planted in the 1800s and became the very first citrus variety in the Sunkist portfolio. Today, Sunkist offers a robust portfolio of nearly 40 fresh, premium citrus varieties, including:
Oranges
Lemons
Mandarins
Grapefruit
Tangerines
Tangelos
Do oranges have different flavors? Yes. Each citrus variety has its own unique flavor profile. Sunkist Navel oranges are one of the most popular varieties and offer the perfect balance of sweet and juicy. Sunkist Cara Cara oranges, also known as The Pinkie™ Orange, is sweet, seedless, and uniquely pink on the inside due to the natural presence of lycopene. Cara Cara oranges offer 100% of your daily vitamin C intake in just one orange. These oranges provide folate, fiber, potassium, and vitamin A in every bite.
A Growing Legacy
What do citrus farmers do? What do citrus farmers do? Sunkist citrus growers take pride in growing and nurturing high-quality citrus for consumers around the world using traditional growing practices, stewardship of natural resources, and a dedication to innovation.
Growing fresh citrus requires hard work, dedication, resilience, skill and innovation. It can take five years for one tree to make the citrus that arrives in stores. Once the fruit is ripe, Sunkist growers hand-pick the fruit, and once at the packinghouse, they are sorted, washed and packed before making their way to the store. Year after year, crop after crop, citrus growers share a commitment to providing fresh quality citrus consumers enjoy worldwide.
Sunkist citrus growers take pride in growing and nurturing high-quality citrus for consumers around the world using traditional growing practices, stewardship of natural resources, and a dedication to innovation. Year after year, crop after crop, citrus growers share a commitment to providing fresh quality citrus consumers enjoy worldwide.
CITRUS CELEBRATION
Learn about the different varieties of citrus.
Head to your local grocery store and purchase a variety of citrus products and have a tasting party with friends.
Learn a new recipe using citrus ingredients. Recipe inspiration can always be found on Sunkist.com/recipes.
Share your favorite citrus recipe or wellness hack and give Sunkist a shout-out on social media using #NationalSunkistCitrusDay.
SUNKIST®
In 2023, National Day Calendar welcomed Sunkist Growers to the National Day Calendar Founder Family. Each year on March 1, we will celebrating National Sunkist Citrus Day in honor of the legacy the cooperative has created for over a century. The entire day recognizes the farmers who dedicate their lives to citrus farming, providing us with delicious and nutritious citrus fruit to enjoy.
NATIONAL SPRAY TANNING DAY | Third Thursday in March
Get your glow on and celebrate National Spray Tanning Day on the third Thursday in March by getting a fresh spray tan!
#NationalSprayTanningDay
After the winter, our skin can be dull and dry. Today on National Spray Tanning Day, prepare to glow all spring and summer with a natural spray tan. In fact, spray tanning is a great way to achieve a healthy head-to-toe glow and is customizable for any skin tone.
There are two types of spray tanning. The first uses an automated spray booth. The second uses a professional spray tan artist creating an air-brushed glow using a handheld spray machine. Both options allow for a customizable and desirable color that compliments all skin tones. In addition, both types of spray tanning involve being sprayed with a liquid solution that contains dihydroxyacetone (DHA).
Dihydroxyacetone is a naturally derived and fermented active ingredient that reacts with your skin to mimic a tan for a temporary amount of time. After getting a spray tan, it’s important to leave the solution on your skin for between four and 24 hours, rinsing when you have achieved your desired color. A spray tan:
Provides a sun-kissed glow in just minutes.
Evens out uneven skin complexion.
Gives skin a more toned appearance.
Boosts confidence.
Can be customized based on your preferences.
Contains vitamins to lock moisture into skin.
Gives an even and streak-free tan.
Offers an option for tan lines.
Includes optional scents based on your preferences.
Tantalizing Benefits
There are many benefits to spray tanning. Not only can you achieve a sun-kissed look in just minutes, spray tanning also gives you a major confidence boost! The average spray tan, whether it be in an automatic booth or by a professional spray tan artist, takes about 5 minutes. For most people, when taking the route of traditional sun tanning, it can take hours or days to begin seeing a sun-kissed glow. Sadly, many people receive a sunburn instead of a tan when choosing the traditional sun tanning.
How Do You Prepare for a Spray Tan?
Preparing for a spray tan can help to elevate your overall experience. To get the most natural looking and long-lasting tan, be sure to:
Shower, exfoliate, and shave/wax 24-28 hours before your session.
Arrive for your appointment with clean skin. Do not apply moisturizers, deodorant, oils, or make-up before your appointment.
Wear loose-fitting, dark colored clothing to prevent bronzer transfer.
Schedule your manicure and/or pedicure appointments prior to your spray tan appointment, so that your tan does not fade prematurely.
Bring a rain jacket if there is a chance of rain to protect your tan while it is developing.
Avoid rinsing or getting wet for a minimum of 4 hours. You can leave your tan on for up to 24 hours before rinsing.
Post Spray Tan Tips
Your post-spray tan care is just as important as the preparation! Be sure to keep in mind the following tips to help your tan last as long as possible:
Rinse your spray tan with warm water and minimal soap/scrubbing.
Pat dry after rinsing your tan instead of wiping off moisture.
Apply moisturizer after your shower and then daily to extend your tan.
Avoid swimming/bathing for the first 24 hours after your spray tan.
Use self-tanners to help extend the length of your tan.
Flaunt your favorite outfit to wear once your spray tan is fully developed and rinsed.
Encourage your friends and family to utilize spray tanning as a healthy way to glow.
Share photos of your spray tan on social media using the hashtag #NationalSprayTanningDay.
Be on the lookout for giveaways, promotions, and events nationwide surrounding National Spray Tanning Day by following @mystictan, @versaspa, and @norvellsunless on Instagram.
ABOUT #NationalSprayTanningDay
National Day Calendar designated National Spray Tanning Day on behalf of Sunless, Inc. brands Mystic Tan, Norvell, and VersaSpa in 2022, to be celebrated on the third Thursday in March each year. National Spray Tanning Day encourages people to safely enhance their skin with a natural-looking glow!
Sunless, Inc. is the leading industry authority in the sunless tanning industry with over 30 years of experience. The company offers sunless tanning technology alternatives such as spray tanning and self-tanning products in the place of harmful UV rays. Sunless, Inc. creates the best of the best when it comes to spray tanning booths, equipment, and solutions. The advanced spray technology delivers streak-free and natural-looking tans every time.
With decades of experience, Sunless, Inc. creates the best of the best when it comes to spray tanning equipment, solutions, and self-tanners. The brands Mystic Tan, Norvell, and VersaSpa are iconic among frequent spray tan users.
You can instantly locate a salon that provides spray tans by Mystic Tan, VersaSpa, or Norvell by using their salon locator.
The first Monday in April is National IEP Writing Day to honor all special education teachers and team members who write Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students with disabilities.
#IEPWritingDay
On National IEP Writing Day, let’s pay it forward by thanking the team of professionals that write and implement IEPs that lead to the success of every student they work with on a daily basis.
What is an IEP? An IEP, or Individualized Education Program, is a compilation of legal documents that are the layout of special education instruction and services needed for student with disabilities to thrive while in school, at home, and in the community.
Writing an IEP is an under-appreciated job requirement special education teachers and teams provide each year. Statistically, almost 65% of teachers don’t like writing IEPs, and an additional 80% dislike writing Present Levels and the Goals/Objectives of an IEP. The amount of paperwork that needs to be submitted per student is extremely time consuming.
IEP Season
Special education teachers and their teams go to great lengths writing and providing IEPs. In fact, no two IEPs are alike because no two students are alike. The professionals that create these IEPs and implement them are managers of legal documents, medical documents, and educational documents. According to school districts across the country, the average time it takes to write an IEP is between 1 to 2.5 hours per student. However, special education teachers and teams say they actually spend nearly 4 hours writing one IEP. Can you imagine the time it takes to write an IEP for nearly 50 students?
On average, a special education teacher will write 16 IEPs in one school year. For some, it can be over 100 in a school year. In the Spring many schools have what they call an “IEP Season.” Even though most school districts have teachers writing IEPs year-round, the IEP season is 4-6 weeks in length. During this time teachers will write all IEPs in this short time frame, plus hold IEP meetings with teams and families.
SPECIAL EDUCATION CELEBRATIONS
Write quick note or email to your fellow IEP team members thanking them for helping.
Praise your special education students for being a part of your teaching life.
Send in a little treat, a handwritten card, gift card, or flowers to show appreciation to your child’s special education teacher and the rest of the IEP team.
Visit The Intentional IEP website and watch videos on the best practices for IEP writing.
Use #iepwritingday and #NationalIEPWritingDay to share yourself writing an IEP for a student without giving away confidential information.
Give a public shoutout to the special education teachers and their teams at your school and share on social media using #makingpositivewaves.
BEHIND NATIONAL IEP WRITING DAY
National Day Calendar and The Intentional IEP collaborated to form National IEP Writing Day in 2022. Each year during the first Monday in April, we will celebrate special education teachers and their teams for making positive waves in the lives of students.
The Intentional IEP is a website that helps special education teachers write IEPs more effectively and efficiently. Unsurprisingly, The Intentional IEP celebrates special education teachers and all IEP team members by working together to complete IEPs more collaboratively as a team. This collaboration helps to further facilitate the positive waves in education. The organization offers both free training using blog posts and videos. In addition, they offer paid services that includes video training, a searchable IEP goal bank, and an IEP writing course for teachers.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
On November 29, 1975, the federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was signed into law giving disabled students access to services through an IEP. The intent was to help them access the same curriculum as their same-aged, neurotypical peers.
The IDEA law states public schools must write IEPs for each student with disabilities who qualify for special education services. These IEPs are intended to help students and families:
Access the same-aged general education curriculum as their classmates.
Provide individualized and specific accommodations based on the student’s needs.
Allow special education teachers and teams to modify, adapt and make support changes based on individual IEP details.
We celebrate National Miniature Garden Month in May to spread joy and awareness of the new hobby of gardening in miniature.
#MiniatureGardenMonth
National Miniature Garden Month is the perfect opportunity to connect with nature by getting your hands in the soil and having fun crafting and creating to your heart’s content. Whether you are starting to learn about gardening, or you are an experienced gardener, growing a garden in miniature is another way to grow nature’s beauty. Enjoy puttering, planting, and decorating with different themes and special occasions, it will keep your imagination flowing all year long.
What is miniature gardening?
A miniature garden is a combination of crafting and gardening. In this new hobby, the rules of gardening have shrunk to fit almost anywhere. They are made using true dwarf and miniature trees that are paired with small-leafed perennials and ground covers for the understory. Combined with a miniature patio and tiny accessories will build a living scene that is an authentic garden in miniature. You can build an eight-foot-long miniature garden in your garden bed, or create one in an eight-inch container for your tabletop. The fun with gardening in miniature is it can be done any time of year, for any season or reason.
You see, miniature gardening is not only a way to grow, play, experiment, plant, create, invent, dig deeper or garden differently, it is a way touch the hearts of people in ways that they never would have imagined. ~Janit Calvo, Miniature Garden Society
Miniature gardening has quickly become an enjoyable pastime. In fact, anyone who enjoys working the plants and loves any kind of garden-craft will find this new hobby very inspiring. Some gardeners use specific themes, such as fairy gardens filled with gnomes and fairies, with pathways going to and fro. Other themes can reflect a holiday or your favorite storybook, complete with symbols or figures from your own nostalgic memories. Whatever you decide to create, your masterpiece will be a reflection of you.
Starting A Miniature Garden
A garden in miniature follows the first basic rule of finding the right plant for the right place. So, the first thing to do when beginning a miniature garden is to decide where you want your little world to live. Whether you are growing indoors, outdoors, in shade or sun, you can find miniature plants to suit almost any location.
After finding the perfect spot for your mini garden, select plants to suit that spot that have the same light and water needs. Have fun choosing plants of different heights and different textures. Then, you can choose your accessories and patio material that will suit your theme. Include a bench that you can visualize sitting on, and perhaps a birdbath filled with water to float little flowers in.
Miniature Garden Ideas
Holiday themes.
Special occasions.
Recreate childhood memories.
Altar or yoga garden for meditation theme.
Fantasy worlds.
Whimsical fairy themes.
MINIATURE GARDEN CELEBRATIONS
Attend a miniature garden class to begin creating your own miniature garden.
Learn about the best plants to use with a miniature garden.
Visit a local garden center to look for dwarf and miniature trees and plants.
Make a miniature garden for your next charity raffle, or gifts for your teacher or coworker.
If you’re an experienced miniature gardener, teach a class at your local garden center or community center.
Host a miniature garden creating party with friends and family.
In 2022, National Day Calendar approved National Miniature Garden Month on behalf of Janit Calvo and Two Green Thumbs Miniature Garden Center. Janit is the original founder of the modern miniature garden hobby. She is also the president of the Miniature Garden Society and author of the bestselling books on the hobby, Gardening in Miniature, published by Timber Press. Janit has been spreading the joy of miniature gardening since 2001.
Janit’s love of miniature gardening was sparked in 1999 after seeing the miniature and dwarf conifers at a nursery in north Seattle where she was working at the time. A lifelong gardener and lover of all things miniature, Janit began combining these two major hobbies, wondering why it wasn’t a hobby yet. Since then, she has spent more than two decades building the marketplace for everyone to learn about this new blend of craft and gardening. The hobby is now an official pastime.
Janit’s love of miniature gardening was sparked in 1999 after seeing the miniature and dwarf conifers at a nursery in north Seattle where she was working at the time. A lifelong gardener and lover of all things miniature, Janit began blending these two major hobbies wondering why it wasn’t a hobby yet. She has spent more than a decade building the marketplace for everyone to learn about this new blend of crafting and gardening. In doing so, more and more people came forward declaring they have been a miniature gardener, too. The hobby is now an official pastime.
Miniature Garden Society
Janit created the Miniature Garden Society in 2015 as a place for mini gardeners to find the right information for success. The Miniature Garden Society provides a space for those who are passionate about all things gardening in miniature. Members have a place to connect with other like-minded miniature gardeners, get valuable insight, stay inspired and learn skills and techniques through unique DIY projects specifically for miniature gardeners.
Through this Society, you too can learn about plant and growing information, find seasonal maintenance advice, a ton of inspiration and examples of in-ground and container gardens, and you can interact in the forums by asking specific questions about any mini garden project. See more information here, at MiniatureGardenSociety.org.
Publications
Gardening in Miniature: Create Your Own Tiny Living World
Gardening in Miniature Prop Shop: Handmade Accessories for Your Own Tiny Living World
The Mini Garden Gazette eNewsletter, published since 2006.
International Snowmobile Ride Day | Second Saturday in February
The second Saturday in February is International Snowmobile Ride Day as a day to encourage everyone to bundle up for an exciting adventure outside on a snowmobile.
#SnowmobileRideDay
International Snowmobile Ride Day is the perfect day for everyone to get outside and experience the outdoors during the winter months. In fact, we can’t think of a better way to see the beauty of winter than while riding a snowmobile. Besides providing an opportunity to view the winter wonderland around you, riding a snowmobile is also a great way for families to get together for fun during the long, winter months.
What is a snowmobile? A snowmobile is a motorized vehicle designed to operate on snow or ice, using tracks or runners on the bottom to move the machine. Snowmobiles do not travel on the open road, but instead on open terrain or on trails. The design is specific for use during the winter months for travel and recreation. Depending on where you live, a snowmobile can go by several other names:
Ski-Doo
Snowmachine
Sled
Motor Sled
Skimmobile
Winter Playground
Winter is one of the most beautiful seasons. Many people miss out on that beauty because of the cold. However, snowmobiling is the perfect activity to experience that beauty. Riding snowmobile can take you over hundreds of miles of hard-to-reach landscapes. In fact, snowmobiling allows you to explore gorgeous scenery of snow covered hills, plains, and mountain trails. Imagine traveling on a trail and you stop to overlook a canyon as the sun goes down. The glow of the winter sun emitting off of pure white snow looks like miles and miles of sparkling gems glowing in different hues of red, orange, and yellow.
Driving a snowmobile is easy to learn. Whether you are a part of a snowmobiling club or you ride as a hobby, anyone can ride a snowmobile. The entire family, from kids to grandparents, can learn to drive a snowmobile quickly by simply pushing buttons. Once you learn the basic parts of a snowmobile, you will be on the trail in no time making winter fun again and making memories that will last you a life time.
CELEBRATE SNOWMOBILING
Join a snowmobile club.
Plan a day of trail riding with your family and friends.
Teach a snowmobile safety course.
Learn about the different varieties of snowmobiles on the market.
Document your trail ride and post to social media using #SnowmobileRideDay.
INTERNATIONAL HISTORY
In 2022, BRP, Inc. joined the National Day Calendar Founder Family establishing International Snowmobile Ride Day. This family-fun winter day is to be celebrated each year on the second Saturday in February. As stand-alone company, BRP, Inc. has brought an impressive portfolio of products that has been enabling unforgettable experiences for their customers for decades.
About
In 1937, Joseph-Armand Bombardier was granted a patent for the first ever vehicle that could travel on snow. Developed in his garage in Valcourt, Quebec, Bombardier worked through his personal determination and daring ideas. In 1942, a second, larger vehicle followed his patent. This led to Bombardier founding his own company that same year. The company became known as L’Auto-Neige Bombardier Limité.
Over the years, J.-A. Bombardier refines his own design and launches the Ski-Doo in 1959, which was powered by a Kohler motor. This innovative product created a new sport that became known as snowmobiling. In the years to follow, Bombardier would seek to consistently innovate new machines by exploring every playground and revolutionizing the powersports industry. Today, the BRP, Inc. riders can be transported on snow, on water, on the ground, and even in the air. United by their passion to keep moving forward towards new adventures, BRP, Inc. gives their customers around the world the power to create their best memories.
Important Dates
1942 – Start up of Auto-neige Bombardier Ltd.
1959 – Industry-first Ski-Doo snowmobile.
1968 – Industry-first Sea-Doo PWC.
1970 – Acquisition of the Austrian Rotax brand.
1989 – Acquisition of the Nordtrac Oy and Lynx brand.
1998 – Bombardier enters the ATV market.
2001 – Acquisition of the Evinrude and Johnson brands.
2003 – Bombardier sells its Recreational Products division; BRP is officially launched.
2007 – Industry-first three-wheel vehicle .
2010 – BRP enters the side-by-side vehicle market
2013 – BRP’s Initial Public Offering.
2018 – Acquisition of the Alumacraft and Manitou Brands.
2018 – BRP enters the Nasdaq.
2019 – Acquisition of Australian boat manufacturer Telwater.
2020 – BRP refocuses its marine business; Discontinuation of Evinrude E-TEC and E-TEC G3 outboard engines.
National Rendering Day is on April 21 and we are celebrating by bringing awareness to reducing and eliminating food waste through a process known as rendering.
#NationalRenderingDay
North Americans consider roughly 50% of an animal inedible. This leaves a lot of leftover material that ends up as food waste. On National Rendering Day, we learn about how we can eliminate this waste, what rendering means, and why using the rendering process is the smart choice.
What is rendering? In short, rendering is recycling from that 50% of the animal we don’t eat. Rendering reclaims the otherwise wasted material, such as protein, bone, and fat and even includes used cooking oil (UCO) from restaurants. The rendering process safely, hygienically, and sustainably processes that unused material (the meat we don’t eat) into new products and goods so nothing is wasted. When we render material safely and hygienically, we process the material in a sustainable and safe manner. In addition, we convert what would have been food waste into material for use in new products.
Rendering demonstrates respect and resourcefulness, especially for the livestock that were raised with care by farmers. In fact, rendering shows respect for the animal itself by using all of the animal. In other words, no part of the animal goes to waste. Additionally, by offsetting the environmental impacts of animal agriculture, rendering shrinks our food production footprint.
Rendering Process
The rendering process transforms and upcycles what would have been food waste into safe, clean, and valuable ingredients for countless new goods. Rendering also saves landfill space and recycles 99% of unwanted material. For this reason, people can feel confident knowing they are making a sustainable choice by using items made through upcycling by rendering material. Once the rendering process is complete, the ingredients can be used in sustainable production of new goods. These new goods transform into common everyday items, such as:
Safe and nutritious pet food and animal feed.
Household and industrial products.
Biofuels and Biomass-based diesel.
Renewable diesel.
Eco-Friendly Solution
Rendering is socially and economically sustainable and supports the three pillars of sustainability–environmental, social, and economic. As a highly environmentally sustainable process, rendering:
Reduces food waste.
Saves landfill space.
Reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
Reclaims and returns clean water to the environment.
Provides countless recycled products.
Impact on Environment
According to recent data published in 2020, the U.S. and Canada annually produce more than 62 billion pounds of rendered raw materials. As a result of rendering that material, we can produce approximately 31.4 billion pounds of rendered products each year, keeping it out of landfills.
The data also reports that rendering reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 72% when compared to petroleum diesels, and reduces fossil fuel use by 80%. In comparison to industrial composting, rendering avoids at least 90% of the potential GHG emissions. Simply put, rendering is the GHG reduction equivalent of removing approximately 18.5 million cars off the road each year.
Social and Economic Impact
Rendering is a financially sound and community-focused industry, offering career stability and a commitment to community support. Socially, the act of rendering food provides thousands of full-time, stable jobs that support families and local communities from coast to coast, especially in rural areas. Most importantly, local jobs stay local because of the raw and perishable nature of the material being rendered.
Most rendering plants are family owned and operated. Many rendering companies are dedicated and passionate about providing community care and outreach. Renderers also contribute to their neighborhoods and wider communities. From supporting the local little league and fire departments, to helping feed and support those in need, renderers are deeply rooted in social sustainability and community support.
Plant owners invest a considerable amount of time and money to improve and enhance their sustainability efforts. This dedication ensures their facilities remain as climate smart and environmentally responsible as possible.
GET INVOLVED
Encourage rendering in your community.
Learn important facts about rendering and the important impact it has on the environment.
Encourage friends and neighbors to support rendering efforts in their communities.
Listen to The Invisible Industry podcast to grow awareness and appreciation for rendering’s important contributions to sustainability and reduced food waste.
Share your rendering support on social media using #NationalRenderingDay and tagging a renderer you know.
A NEW NATIONAL DAY
National Day Calendar and the North American Renderers Association (NARA) are happy to announce National Rendering Day to be celebrated each year on April 21. This day has been created to show appreciation for those in the rendering industry. The date was intentionally chosen to be near Earth Day to remind everyone the importance of rendering in the larger sustainability and reduced food waste conversations. Today, we encourage everyone to recognize and celebrate the many environmental benefits of rendering, including the important role in reducing food waste and overall sustainability.
The North American Renderers Association (NARA) is an alliance that represents the best interests of its members in public, government, and regulatory affairs. The organization provides services, programs, and technical support to the North American rendering industry, both in the national and international markets. Their vision is to deliver sustainable solutions to food, feed, fuel, oleochemical, and other customers. NARA advocates for a sustainable food chain, public health, and the environment through the production and marketing of their members’ products and services.
National Day Calendar and Celebrate Every Day are registered trademarks of Zoovio, Inc. All commercial use must be approved by Zoovio, Inc. Duplicating, plagiarizing, or falsely claiming creative ownership, printed or digital, without consent of National Day Calendar®, is considered a violation of United States copyright laws.
