Category: Science

  • NATIONAL CRYPTOCURRENCY MONTH | October

    NATIONAL CRYPTOCURRENCY MONTH | October

    The entire month of October is a celebration of cryptocurrencies and the cultivation of new economic growth opportunities they bring.

    #CryptocurrencyMonth

    Cyptocurrency is a class of digital currencies that exist outside the governance of any one country’s economy or government. While fiat currency is a system of money used and accepted in a particular country, cryptocurrencies are digital coins and tokens, minted electronically on a blockchain using cryptography. Cryptography is the science of protecting data by transforming it into a secure format.

    How does cryptocurrency work? All cryptocurrencies run and operate on something called blockchain. A blockchain is a record of transactions updated and held by currency holders that cannot be altered, deleted, or destroyed. Each transaction also affects succeeding transactions, which makes tampering with a previous transaction virtually impossible. This visibility establishes trust, accountability, and transparency.

    Can you buy things with cryptocurrency? Absolutely. Many cryptocurrency platforms allow you to use your digital funds to purchase items. For example, Expedia allows you to book a vacation for a small fee. Retailers are beginning to allow payment of goods using cryptocurrency. If you have a large amount of cryptocurrency in your digital wallet, you might be able to secure a home loan using your currency as collateral. Of course not everyone takes cryptocurrency as payment, but if you have PayPal, you can use your currency to pay for goods through their new service Checkout With Crypto.

    Crypto Facts

    • The first cryptocurrency purchase of a physical product was in 2010 for two pizzas.
    • A man in Wales accidently threw out his hard drive containing 7,500 Bitcoin (now worth millions) and is appealing to his local city council to excavate the landfill it ended up in.
    • It’s virtually impossible to ban cryptocurrency, but many countries have implemented strict regulations on exchanges.
    • In 2018, someone bought a CryptoKitty Dragon for 600 Ethereum valuing at $170,000. Amazingly, that same CryptoKitty now has a value of $1.5 million.
    • There are there more than 9,500 cryptocurrencies in existence today.

    There are thousands of cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, Litecoin, and others. The value of these assets is largely determined by how much people invest in them, and they hold the same value everywhere in the world.

    Top 3 Cryptocurrencies

    1. Bitcoin was the first cryptocurrency in the digital world making it’s debut in 2008 and still holding the #1 spot in cryptocurrency. Money transfer occurs through the bitcoin network of registered users. All transactions are verified and authenticated by nodes and recorded on the blockchain.
    2. Ethereum is the second largest open-source blockchain with a large variety of financial services. According to Ethereum.org, “While Bitcoin is only a payment network, Ethereum is more like a marketplace of financial services, games, social networks and other apps that respect your privacy and cannot censor you.”
    3. Tether is the largest stablecoin in cryptocurrency.
    4. Stablecoins differ from other cryptocurrencies in that their value is “pegged” to a particular fiat currency (for example, the US Dollar), so its value is as stable as the asset it’s pegged to. Tether and other stablecoins are used for lending and converting one crypto to another.

    ENGAGE IN THE CRYPTOCURRENCY WORLD

    • Take a class to learn about cryptocurrency.
    • Invest in cryptocurrency.
    • Learn the history of cryptocurrency, including who is credited with being the “founder” of this digital currency.
    • Teach a class to beginners if you are an expert cryptocurrency user.
    • Share #NationalCryptocurrencyMonth on social media.

    DIGITAL MONEY HISTORY

    In 2022, Guy Gotslak from My Digital Money and National Day Calendar created National Cryptocurrency Month to be celebrated each year the entire month of October. My Digital Money allows customers to invest cash or part of a self-directed IRA into cryptocurrency.

    The first mention of cryptocurrency appears in 1983 by David Chaum. After introducing his concept of encrypted electronic money in a conference paper, Chum began to develop a proto-cryptocurrency named Digicash. Using key encryption to withdraw money from a bank, Chaum successfully transferred money to a recipient without using a financial institution.

    In 2008, Satoshi Nakamoto (not his/her real name) introduced Bitcoin and information on how to operate it using blockchain technology. However, it is know Nakamoto would make reference to current economic conditions involving financial institutions, including bank bailouts. In fact, a headline in The Times ran announcing a new method to exchange currency without financial institution involvement. 

    Early exchanges of currency made a lot of money for people and their investments. Unfortunately, that money was sometimes associated with illegal activity, such as drug sales, prostitution, and theft. Luckily, like all technology, knowledge increases resulting in substantial improvements. Today, anyone can use cryptocurrency to secure their own financial portfolio.

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  • NATIONAL EASTERN BOX TURTLE WEEK | First Full Week in May

    NATIONAL EASTERN BOX TURTLE WEEK | First Full Week in May

    We celebrate National Eastern Box Turtle Week the first full week in May to praise the remarkable resilience of the Eastern Box Turtle.

    #NationalEasternBoxTurtleWeek

    The entire first full week of May celebrates a resilient and popular reptile, commonly known as the Eastern Box Turtle. A subspecies of the common box turtle, the Eastern Box Turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina) is native to eastern parts of the U.S. and radiates beautiful colors on its shell. Today, we want everyone to celebrate by learning about the Eastern Box Turtle.

    “Eastern Box Turtles are walking wildflowers of color who move forward with patient perseverance.”

    What is the Eastern Box Turtle? As a part of the hinge-shelled turtles, Eastern Box Turtles are not a tortoise and are mostly terrestrial. They are considered slow moving reptiles that live a long life and are fairly slow to reproduce. Their attractive appearance and gentle disposition are admired by children and adults alike. Sadly, Eastern Box Turtles are susceptible to high mortality due to the pace they move when crossing roads, or when trying to escape harm. Unfortunately, illegal poaching also contributes to declining numbers. In addition, habitat loss has also been an increasing problem for the Eastern Box Turtle and it’s survival.

    How can you identify an Eastern Box Turtle from other turtles? Eastern Box Turtles are beautiful turtles, especially the male species. Even though female Eastern Box Turtles mostly have brown shells, male turtles of this species have radiant lines of yellow, orange, red, or white on their shell. In addition, they also have very distinct spots. On occasion, the female species also has bright colors on their shells, making identification between male and female tough. Interestingly, the easiest way to tell the male species from the female is all male Eastern Box Turtles have red eyes.

    Interesting Facts

    There are interesting facts about the Eastern Box Turtle that are worth knowing. For example, Eastern Box Turtles:

    • Are the official reptile in North Carolina.
    • Can regenerate and reform their shell when injured or damaged.
    • Have fives toes on front legs and four toes on the hind legs.
    • Range in size from 4.5 to 8 inches long.
    • Feature sharp stout limbs with webbed feet at the base of the feet.
    • Tend to cool off in ponds, shallow streams, and mud.

    SUPPORTING EASTERN BOX TURTLES

    • Volunteer with a turtle Rescue team to treat sick and injured turtles.
    • Visit a turtle habitat.
    • Learn about Eastern Box Turtles.
    • Visit the TRT website to learn about Eastern Box Turtles.
    • Donate to a local vet clinic that treats injured and sick turtles.
    • Share your support on social media using #NationalEasternBoxTurtleWeek.

    FOUNDER

    National Day Calendar began working with Bruce Worf to form National Eastern Box Turtle Week in 2022. Each year during the first week in May, we will celebrate this reptile holiday. The week also honors the work of the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine Turtle Rescue Team. The Turtle Rescue Team (TRT) is a veterinary student-run organization that treats native, sick, and injured wild turtles. Eastern box turtles make up the majority of the patients treated.

    Turtle Rescue Team

    The TRT was founded in early 1996 by Dr. Gregory Lewbart and has been treating over 500 turtle patients in recent years. Dr. Lewbart, Professor of Aquatic, Wildlife, and Zoological Medicine is a nationally and internationally recognized expert in these fields of Veterinary Medicine. He provides expert advice and supervision to veterinary students rotating through the clinic with the help of Zoological Medicine Research Specialist, Kent Passingham.

    After a generous donation by wildlife rehabilitator, Linda Henis, TRT has expanded significantly. The clinic has consultations and diagnostic equipment provided by NCSU College of Veterinary Medicine Teaching Hospital to allow students the opportunity to work, diagnose, and treat turtles with state-of-the-art equipment.

    Dr. Bruce Worf, a physician and longtime sponsor of the TRT, with the help of Representative Rosa Gill, spearheaded the effort to get the North Carolina Legislature to designate the TRT as a Special License Plate, featuring the TRT logo, an Eastern Box Turtle with a Red Cross adorning it’s shell. In addition, Niki Theobald, Development Director, NCSU College of Veterinary Medicine also supported the creation of a NEBTW to honor the work of the TRT.

    Other Achievements

    Students at TRT:

    • Contribute to published research on their turtle patients.
    • Participate in various Outreach Programs with North Carolina museums, aquariums, and parks.
    • Established the Turtle Ally Certification Program to help veterinarians across North Carolina improve their skills in treating injured native wild turtles.
    • Volunteer in a very successful anti-poaching operation that results in a significant period of incarceration and legal sanctions for a poacher of wild turtles in North Carolina.

    Dr. Bruce Worf also contributed to founding National Megalodon Day, which is celebrated June 15 each year.

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  • STAR TREK DAY | September 8

    STAR TREK DAY | September 8

    Fans across the globe celebrate Star Trek Day on September 8 to remember the timeless legacy Star Trek has made on society and pop culture.

    #StarTrekDay

    On September 8, 1966, a television series pilot known as Star Trek was introduced on American television. Aiming for an adult audience, this was the was the first time a scientific fiction series would explore morality through scientific narratives. Most movies or television shows would contain science but would often create conflict of suffering and injustice to solve problems. However, Star Trek was different. The series would put actors in the forefront making scientific arguments, while providing peaceful solutions to problems without using violence.

    What was the first episode of Star Trek? In a galaxy far, far away “The Man Trap” aired as the pilot episode for Star Trek: The Original Series. Creator Gene Roddenberry’s vision to successfully deliver a storyline of intergalactic drama full of diversity, acceptance and hope became a reality on todays date. Though the series intention was to be a fictional story, Star Trek would become a futuristic franchise, showcasing humans living in harmony with space and Earth.

    The Starship Enterprise

    The original cast of the Star Trek series was one of the most diverse looking characters ever seen on television at the time. The main crew consisted of:

    • Ship Captain James T. Kirk (William Shatner)
    • First Officer and Science Officer Spock (Leonard Nimoy)
    • Chief Medical Officer: Leonard H. “Bones” McCoy (DeForest Kelly)
    • Opening Credits Narrator: William Shatner

    Space: the final frontier. These are the voyages of the starship Enterprise. Its five-year mission: to explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and new civilizations, to boldly go where no man has gone before. ~ William Shatner

    LIFT OFF

    • Watch the original Star Trek pilot series.
    • Host a Star Trek Marathon with your friends and family.
    • Dress up in your favorite Star Trek character and host a Treki party.
    • Learn Klingon (the official Star Trek language).
    • Find a Star Trek convention and attend.
    • Introduce Star Trek to a new generation.
    • Post your Star Trek moments on social media and tag #StarTrekDay.

    EARTHING CONTRIBUTIONS

    For 56 years, Star Trek has been captivating audiences across the world. Now considered one of the most successful franchise, the legacy of the original series continues to greet millions of fans. In 2022, Paramount+ is paying special tribute to fans by hosting a variety of celebrations honoring Star Trek through the years.

    Future Events

    For more information visit the Star Trek Day website.

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  • NATIONAL GREEN CITY DAY | October 1

     

    NATIONAL GREEN CITY DAY | October 1

    On October 1 we celebrate National Green City Day to highlight the progress and innovations cities are making to become more sustainable.

    #NationalGreenCityDay

    There are so many exciting innovations that cities across the country are implementing to become eco-friendly. This National Day gives everyone the chance to highlight milestones addressing the issue of climate change. The day also encourages people to share various eco-friendly ideas and solutions to meet the need of sustainable urban planning.

    What is a green city? Also known as a sustainable city, a green city is a city that is addressing social, environmental, and economic impacts through building eco-friendly alternatives by removing harmful chemicals and waste from communities. While ways to help the planet is essential to sustainability, reducing costs and creating a vibrant culture for citizens are equally important. Through planned infrastructure, green cities can leave behind a net zero footprint for a more sustainable world and create vibrant, healthier spaces for everyone.

    Why are green cities important? According to a recent UN report, around 2.5 billion more people will be living in cities by 2050, highlighting the need for sustainable urban planning and public services. Green cities:

    • Lower emissions.
    • Conserve energy.
    • Reduce waste.
    • Ensure rich biodiversity.
    • Increase housing density and improve public health.
    • Encourage the development of sustainable local businesses.

    Becoming A Green City

    Cities across the world are implementing changes to become more eco-friendly for future generations. As population increases, so does the emission of pollution. By supporting efforts and everyone doing their part, cities are learning to live more sustainably and preserve their natural resources. The future is urban and sustainability is the way forward.

    Urban Green Spaces

    Maintaining parks, wetlands, open green spaces, hiking trails, community, and rooftop gardens are all ways to bring nature into the city. Fortunately, cities have dedicated green spaces that bridge the gap between urban and natural environments. Urban green spaces can boost mental/physical health while reducing the effects of heat, pollution, and traffic noise. These spaces also support greater urban biodiversity by providing safe refuge and food for local wildlife.

    Transportation

    Improving transportation options in a city promotes green city living. Cities can repair or create new bike paths to encourage biking to destinations rather than driving. Public transportation companies can support green living by investing in clean technology for trains and buses. In addition, public transportation can reevaluate their routes to meet the needs of pollution laws and still serve commuters effectively.

    Solar Energy

    Increasing use of solar panels to produce energy will reduce the number of emissions from fossil fuels. They can also help alleviate the damage of smog, acid rain, and contaminated water sources. In addition, renewable energy projects increase city resilience by reducing dependence on the grid in times of natural disasters. In fact, many cities are offering bulk purchasing options, lowering the cost for everyone involved.

    Waste Management

    For a city to be successful at becoming a green city, urban dwellers must participate in the process and rethink buying habits. Several cities have already banned the use of plastic straws, plastic bags, and plastic foam products (Styrofoam). You can help by reducing your household plastic consumption and reusing as much as possible. When recycling, remember to place your items in the appropriate bins. The most successful green cities have reliable drop-off locations that are not only convenient, but easy to access. Green cities have location drop offs for:

    • Paper
    • Plastic
    • Cans
    • Electronics
    • Food waste

    GO GREEN

    • Bike to work to save money, time, and the environment.
    • Green your rooftop or balcony by adding plants.
    • Create outdoor spaces to promote physical activity.
    • Shop at a farmers’ market or start a community garden in your neighborhood.
    • Support preservation of natural habitats and landscapes.
    • Make a plan to go plastic-free.
    • Carpool to reduce vehicle emissions.
    • Enjoy an outdoor picnic and collect natural items that can be used for a fun art project.
    • Organize your own event at a local park and celebrate all the ways your city is going green.
    • Recycle and reuse.
    • Volunteer to clean up your local park or waterways
    • Start a movement to build a green city block.
    • Share and tag #NationalGreenCityDay on ways you are contributing to a more sustainable world.

    More Eco-Friendly Ideas

    BEHIND THE ECO-FRIENDLY DAY

    In 2022, Mio Reggio LLC founder Monica Tierney and National Day Calendar collaborated to create National Green City Day. The day promotes the progress cities are making to become more sustainable and eco-friendly.

    Mio Reggio LLC is a company that provides educational materials and blocks for children ages 3 and up. Their mission is to connect children to sustainability and creativity through open-ended play. Mio Reggio products support sensory development, spatial awareness, and a connection to nature.

    According to Mio Reggio LLC, children today rarely explore outdoors and are missing out on an appreciation for nature. Children who spend time outside develop better:

    • Cognitive skills
    • Physical strength
    • Emotional skills
    • Mental health
    • Creative ideas and critical thinking
    • Self-regulation
    • Verbal development

    Mio Reggio believes in children’s role as global citizens and their ability to give shape to the green city movement. We are all citizens of a city.

    The city, which is both theirs and ours, is a place always in the process of becoming. We should not resist the new, attempting to preserve a world that we know is destined to disappear….what we can do, and in a certain way, must do, together with the children, is to give shape to this evolution. ~Carla Rinaldi

    Good Housekeeping awarded Mio Reggio LLC the 2021 Good Housekeeping Sustainable Innovation Award for their Green City Blocks product. They have currently listed them as one of the 25 green companies to know.

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  • CHRONIC DISEASE DAY | July 10

    CHRONIC DISEASE DAY | July 10

    On 7/10 we spread awareness on Chronic Disease Day to educate and advocate for people who live with a chronic health conditions every day.

    #ChronicDiseaseDay

    A chronic disease is a condition that lasts longer than one year. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, chronic disease is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Seven out of 10 people suffer from a form of chronic disease.

    What are a few common chronic diseases?

    • ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease)
    • Alzheimer’s
    • Cancer
    • Crohn’s Disease
    • Diabetes
    • Heart Disease

    Prevention

    Many, but not all, chronic diseases can be prevented simply by practicing self-care. Improving and practicing a healthy lifestyle can likely reduce getting a chronic disease.

    What can I do to prevent getting a chronic disease?

    • Eat a healthy diet. Eating the proper amount of fruits, veggies, grains, dairy and protein plays a significant role in maintaining a healthy weight. Limiting sugar and starch intake prevents obesity, diabetes, heart disease and cancer.
    • Exercise. Increasing physical activity not only promotes physical health, it also helps balance mental health.
    • Routine medical check-ups. Visiting your doctor regularly is important when maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Early detection to address medical problems and finding a plan of action.
    • Know your family medical history. Having a complete medical history of your family will help your doctor determine possible health problems you may develop. It also gives a good reminder for you to pay special attention to medical problems that are hereditary.
    • Rest. Getting adequate rest is a factor in how your body reacts to “life.” Stress, depression and anxiety cause serious health problems, too.

    Cost of Chronic Disease

    Economically, chronic diseases have a significant impact financially in the United States. We all absorb the financial burden of chronic disease directly or indirectly. Health insurance and medical programs, such as Medicaid and Medicare, are supported by tax dollars. Private health insurance costs for enrollees consumes more dollars in one family than any other health condition. Because people with chronic disease illnesses live long lives, the cost to treat these illnesses becomes extremely expensive over the years.

    Why does chronic disease cost so much?

    • Patients require long-term treatment plans.
    • People who suffer from chronic disease wait until “it’s too late” to seek proper care.
    • Personal health insurance lack policy guidelines to cover some chronic disease.
    • Lack of education to prevent chronic disease is available.
    • Preventative measures are not addressed by health care providers, leading to patients unable to address pre-existing based on medical history.

    GET INVOLVED

    • Support Chronic Disease Day by taking the pledge to live your best, healthiest life.
    • Volunteer to help someone who suffers from chronic disease.
    • Schedule a complete physical to address any health issues that might lead to long-term chronic disease.
    • Become an advocate of chronic disease
    • Host a fundraiser for a local agency and raise money to alleviate costs for patients.
    • Educate yourself on the different types of chronic diseases that affect people.
    • Share #ChronicDiseaseDay on social media to spread awareness.

    HISTORY OF CHRONIC DISEASE DAY

    Today’s observance is an awareness campaign promoted by the organization 7.10 Chronic Disease Day Using people’s stories and voices, the organization advocates to build healthier lifestyles in communities by lowering preventable illness. In addition, they assist in the advancement for unpreventable chronic disease conditions.

    National Day Calendar added Chronic Disease Day to the calendar on July 1, 2022. A Superfan reached out to us letting us know the existence of the day. After doing research, we decided it would be a good addition to our calendar. Thank you T. Marshall at Good Days for helping National Day Calendar #CelebrateEveryDay.

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  • NATIONAL DIMPLES DAY | July 9

    NATIONAL DIMPLES DAY | July 9

    On July 9 we admire those who have an adorable natural indentation known as the dimple on National Dimples Day.

    #NationalDimplesDay

    Dimples are often associated with cute babies and good looking adults. Only 20-30% of the entire world population has dimples. Although most people possess two dimples, a rare few produce only one when smiling.

    Dimples are considered a genetic trait. Normally, if one person in a family has dimples, it’s likely another family member will. Some scientists believe we inherit dimples. However, other scientists believe dimples are a random trait people have. Until more research is available, no one knows which genes produce dimples. In fact, there is very little scientific research available to make a determination.

    Facial Dimple Types

    • Dimple on both cheeks.
    • Chin dimple or cleft chin.
    • One-sided cheek dimple.
    • Corner of mouth dimple.

    How do dimples form? Dimples are formed by the zygomaticus major muscle, which is the muscle that controls facial expressions. The zygomaticus major muscle connects to the zygomatic bone, which is commonly known as the cheekbone. Most people have a single zygomaticus muscle attached to the cheekbone. However, people with dimples possess two zygomaticus muscles. One muscle connects to the cheek bone, while the other connects to the corner of the mouth.

    Those born with dimples, or develop dimples later in life, may have been told their dimples are a birth defect. However, there is no scientific information saying dimples have a negative effect on health. In fact, people with dimples have a positive effect on how society views the lucky faces that have dimples.

    Are dimples considered attractive? Dimples are, in fact, associated with beauty. Many people believe people with dimples look younger. People with dimples seem to be more noticeable, especially when they smile. Whether or not dimples determine success, we know there are several contemporary famous people whose dimples make them stand out.

    • Gabrielle Union-Wade
    • Mario Lopez
    • Matthew McConaughey
    • Michael B. Jordan
    • Jennifer Garner
    • Judy Garland
    • Sophia Bush
    • Kirsten Dunst
    • Deepika Padukone
    • Shin Min-a

    What are back dimples? Some people are born with back dimples, which are indentations on your lower back. People who have back dimples are born with them. This congenial feature is a result of shorter ligament tissue that connect the skin and pelvis. Although it may sound like a medical condition, back dimples are part of a healthy body structure.

    Beauty of the Gods

    Women who have back dimples are sometimes referred to as “dimples of Venus.” According to Greek Mythology, Venus is known as the Roman goddess of love and beauty. Since her beauty relates to love and desire, it’s evident why people today refer to back dimples as dimples of Venus.

    Although back dimples are more common in women, men also have dimples on their back. Men with back dimples refer to them as “dimples of Apollo.” References say Apollo was the God of Light, whose primary job was to pull the sun across the sky in his chariot. As the son of Zeus, he was admired for his knowledge in medicine, art, poetry and music.

    Weird Dimple Facts

    • Gelasin is the term referring to when dimples form when a person smiles.
    • Dimples are a result of a genetic deformity.
    • Chinese culture believe dimples are a sign of good luck.
    • The appearance of dimples depends on the shape of the skull.
    • Isabella Gilbert invented a non-surgical dimple creating device in 1936.
    The Dimple Maker
    Medford Mail Tribune (November 22, 1936)

    The Dimple Maker

    In 1936, Isabella Gilbert made her introduction to the world with an invention that supposedly created dimples. After creating a prototype, she submitted her application for a patent to market her product. Patent application number US104345A was filed on October 6, 1936 and granted on August 31, 1937. It took 17 years for the US Patent office to publish the Dimple Maker invention as US2091276A. Unfortunately, the patent expired after the American Medical Association said the device was hazardous to a person’s health.

    Dimple Maker Instructions

    “Wear dimplers five minutes at a time, two or three times a day, while dressing, resting, reading or writing. Look into the mirror and laugh. There will be a semblance of a line where you should always place the dimplers until your dimples are made.”

    SMILE

    • Anything that makes you feel happy will make you smile.
    • Laugh throughout the day.
    • Create fake dimples using a method found at  L’Oréal Paris USA.
    • Share photos of you or someone you know who has dimples.

    FOUNDER OF NATIONAL DIMPLES DAY

    Cultures throughout the world consider back dimples a sign of beauty. Ancient Chinese culture often refer to back dimples in calligraphy writing. Interestingly, they also compare them to pits of wine.

    In 2022, National Day Calendar welcomed National Dimples Day to our list new days. Each year on July 9 people across the world can celebrate their smile and show off their dimples! Founder and Chief Dimples Officer Graceful Grady believes celebrating dimples is a way to inspire people to be proud of their unique features.

    National Dimples Day is about celebrating the rarity of dimples. ~Graceful Grady, Founder

    Graceful Grady would like to invite everyone to nationaldimplesday.com and vote for your favorite dimple. While you’re there, check out their fun National Dimples Day products.

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  • INTERNATIONAL KANGAROO CARE AWARENESS DAY – May 15

    Every year on May 15, advocates educate and raise awareness for skin-to-skin contact on International Kangaroo Care Awareness Day. Also known as kangaroo care, skin-to-skin contact encourages everyone to embrace this important practice between newborns and mothers immediately after birth, especially those in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).

    #KangarooCareDay

    The term “kangaroo care” got its name from the type of care a kangaroo mother provides their infant. A kangaroo mother has a little pouch on the front if its body. This little pouch acts as a second womb. When a joey, or baby kangaroo, is inside the pouch, it stays warm and protected. In addition, the pouch also offers a cozy environment in which to grow. Just like a mother kangaroo, a human mother can offer the same security.

    During the first moments and days after a birth, a mother places their infant onto her chest and covers the baby with a blanket. This skin-to skin contact between baby and mother helps babies thrive. Though kangaroo care is primarily done in the NICU where premature babies need a lot of extra care, many hospitals have implemented this practice as part of the birthing process. In some instances, a caregiver provides the contact just as well as a birth mother can.

    There are many evidence-based health benefits for skin-to-skin contact between baby and mother. For example, kangaroo care helps premature babies gain weight more quickly. Some other benefits for the baby include:

    • Stabilizing heart rate and body temperature.
    • Improving breathing pattern and oxygen saturation levels.
    • Improving sleep patterns.
    • Decreases crying and reduces stress.
    • Increases the success rate of breastfeeding.
    • Increases chances of an earlier discharge from the NICU.

    Kangaroo care is not just beneficial for babies, however. Parents also benefit from doing this type of care in the hospital. Parents can increase their bond with their baby as well as increase their confidence in their ability to care for their baby. Additionally, mothers who practice kangaroo care might also have an increased supply of breastmilk.

    SUPPORTING INTERNATIONAL KANGAROO CARE DAY

    • Attend an event to raise awareness for kangaroo care, such as walks, seminars and workshops.
    • Learn about the benefits kangaroo care provides to premature babies and parents.
    • Talk to a new parent about kangaroo care.
    • Share your journey using kangaroo care with your infant.
    • Fundraise on behalf of parents of premature babies, hospitals and healthcare workers.
    • Provide stuffed kangaroo animals to your local NICU.
    • Raise awareness for this day on social media using #InternationalKangarooAwarenessDay and #KangarooCareDay.

    INTERNATIONAL KANGAROO CARE AWARENESS DAY HISTORY

    In 1979, Dr. Edgar Ray and Dr. Hector Martinez began working together to find a way to help the survival rates of premature babies. While working in a large maternity unit in Bogota, Columbia, they started to change how care was provided to low birth weight infants using skin-to-skin contact. At the time, underdeveloped countries had limited resources to increase the survival rate of infants born with low birth weight.

    After performing revolutionary experiments on how to improve the overall health of premature infants, Dr. Ray and Dr. Martinez concluded skin-to-skin contact was just as effective as more expensive treatments. Within a few years, over 500 babies thrived, significantly reducing the death rate of infants in Columbia. The movement became known as the Kangaroo Mother Care Program. Kangaroo Mother Care has three main components:

    • Early and continuous skin-to-skin contact between the mother and her infant.
    • Exclusive breastfeeding.
    • Early discharge.

    Today, Kangaroo Mother Care is practiced in hospitals around the world. New studies are consistently being done, including the importance of the father of the newborn participating in

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  • NATIONAL CHECK YOUR WIPERS DAY – May 16

    National Check Your Wipers Day (Día Nacional de Revisar Tus Limpiaparabrisas), on May 16, reminds drivers in Latin America to regularly check their windshield wipers to ensure optimum visibility in the event of inclement weather on the road.

    #CheckYourWipersDay

    According to a recent study conducted by the Statistics Yearbook of Collisions on Federal Highways 2020, the Mexican Institute of Transportation reported that 29.33% of the accidents recorded were caused by road, vehicle, and natural agents such as rain, wind, fog, smoke, hail, and snow.

    A survey by MICHELIN® Wiper Blades found that 92% of drivers agree that poor wiper blades can affect their driving ability. However, 90% of drivers do not plan the time to check their wipers properly and 55%+ do not know how to check their wiper blades properly.

    The Mexican National Meteorological System (SMN) informed that the rainy season, which started in April, could last for 6 months. Checking vehicles wiper blades ensures that the windshield wipers provide adequate visibility in inclement weather. In the case of wipers blades, the recommendation is to change them every 6 or 12 months.

    OBSERVING CHECK YOUR WIPERS DAY

    On National Check Your Wipers Day, ensure your family’s driving ability and safety by checking the windshield wipers on all your cars. Great reminders on when to check your wipers include:

    • During an oil change.
    • When you fill gas.
    • After a car wash.
    • Before a road trip.
    • At the start of Winter and Spring seasons.
    • Add checking your wipers to your maintenance checklist. When you celebrate, be sure to use #CheckYourWipersDay on social media.

    MICHELIN Signs of Wear Image

      NATIONAL CHECK YOUR WIPERS DAY HISTORY

      The Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed National Check Your Wipers Day in September of 2021. As of 2022, due to seasonality, MICHELIN® officially requested May 16th become National Check Your Wipers Day (Día Nacional de Revisar Tus Limpiaparabrisas) for countries in Latin America. Additionally, MICHELIN® changed the November 16 observance to International Check Your Wipers Day to be celebrated in the U.S., Canada, Europe and Asia. Both the May 16 and November 16 observances are a reminder to educate drivers about checking their wiper blades.

      Regular car maintenance includes routinely checking the condition of the wiper blades for optimal performance. It also helps you avoid getting caught in inclement weather. 

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    • E-DAY – February 7

      E-DAY

      Every year on February 7th, E-Day celebrates the mathematical constant e, which is also called Euler’s Number. It’s also a day to learn more about the Swiss mathematician, Leonhard Euler.

      If you have ever taken an advanced math or physics course, you may recall seeing a little “e.” Though it’s a letter, it’s actually called Euler’s number. It has a mathematic value of 2.7182818. Like pi, the digits go on forever in a series that never repeats.

      Euler’s number is usually used when trying to solve a formula or equation. One example of how Euler’s number is used is when trying to determine the rate of change. In biology, Euler’s number helps calculate the rate of exponential growth or decay. Population models are another application that Euler’s number is commonly used.

      In finance, Euler’s number can also help calculate how compound interest causes wealth to grow. This is exactly how mathematician Jacob Bernoulli was using this number. In 1638, Bernoulli was trying to figure out how fast wealth would grow if it were compounded more than once a year.

      Over 100 years later in 1748, Leonhard Euler began to work with this mathematical constant. It was Euler that proved it was an irrational number. While working with the constant, he used the letter “e” for the word “exponents”. However, the letter became commonly associated with his name. Euler is also known for founding the studies of graph theory and topology. He is considered one of the greatest mathematicians in history.

      HOW TO OBSERVE E-DAY

      • Try to solve a formula or equation using the constant e.
      • Learn more about mathematicians Jacob Bernoulli and Leonhard Euler.
      • Watch videos online about Euler’s number.
      • Have a contest to see who can list the most consecutive digits in Euler’s number.
      • Go to the e-day website and find your birthday in Euler’s number.
      • Share this fun and educational day on social media with #EDay.

      E-DAY HISTORY

      E-day began on February 7th, 2018. The reason for this is that in some parts of the world this date is written as 2/7/18, which corresponds to the value of e in mathematics.

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    • EARTH’S ROTATION DAY – January 8

      EARTH’S ROTATION DAY

      On January 8th, Earth’s Rotation Day celebrates the discovery that our planet rotates on its axis every 24 hours. It’s also a day to learn more about the French physicist, Leon Foucault.

      The axis on which the Earth rotates is an imaginary line that is drawn straight through the earth. The axis connects the North Pole to the South Pole. The Earth rotates on this near-vertical axis every 24 hours. For this reason, there are 24 hours in one day. Additionally, it takes just over 365 days to revolve around the sun. Because of this, 365 days equals one year.

      The earth’s rotation doesn’t just determine how long our day or year is, however. The earth’s rotation also determines the seasons. As the earth rotates, the sun intensifies at various angles. The Earth’s various positions in space throughout the year also allows us to see different constellations.

      The earth’s rotation is even responsible for the Coriolis Effect, which is the defection of air currents. Air gets deflected to the right (clockwise) in the Northern hemisphere and to the left (counterclockwise) in the Southern hemisphere. Trade winds occur when the high-pressure wind gets blown to the west from 30 degrees N. Westerly winds occur when air currents are deflected to the east.

      HOW TO OBSERVE #EarthsRotationDay

      On this day, science museums and schools host a variety of events to educate others about the earth’s rotation. Many people go to science museums to see a display of Foucault’s pendulum. To participate:

      • Learn more about how the earth’s rotation affects time, weather, gravity, and astronomy.
      • Watch a documentary, such as “Orbit: Earth’s Extraordinary Journey” or “If the Earth Stops Spinning.”
      • Host a space-themed party.

      Spread awareness for this day on social media with #EarthsRotationDay.

      EARTH’S ROTATION DAY HISTORY

      It’s not known when people began observing this day. It is known, however, that the day is celebrated on January 8th to mark an important scientific event. It’s on this day in 1851 that Leon Foucault proved that the Earth rotates on its axis. Foucault is a French physicist who is also known for inventing the gyroscope and coming up with Foucault’s pendulum.

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