Category: Technology & Communication

  • INTERNATIONAL VOLKSWAGEN® BUS DAY | June 2

    INTERNATIONAL VOLKSWAGEN® BUS DAY

    Today is not only June 2, it is also International Volkswagen Bus Day and we are celebrating an iconic past while taking a ride into the future. Come along as we celebrate a global icon with an unmistakable design that has brought smiles to the faces of generations–the Volkswagen Bus.

    #VWBUSDAY

    The Volkswagen Type 2, better known as simply the Volkswagen Bus (VW Bus), is an automotive icon that continues to captivate people from around the globe. Introduced in 1950, it has become a vehicular symbol of a counterculture movement.

    The original Volkswagen Bus design was specifically for commercial use. However, it would quickly adapt to a family vehicle because of its ability to transport people comfortably. Interestingly, the bus has also been used for a wide variety of other applications, including campers, ambulances, and even a mobile recording studio. In fact, the most famous and well-known association for the VW Bus may be its association with the 1960s era. This is especially true after the bus became a cultural icon for those in attendance to the Woodstock Music & Arts Festival in 1969.

    Volkswagen ID. Buzz Arrives in America

    On June 2, 2023, Volkswagen of America will introduce a modern-day reincarnation of the Volkswagen Bus-–the ID. Buzz to the general public. The new ID. Buzz brings the nostalgic vibes of the original Volkswagen Bus into the 21st century. The ID. Buzz is an all-new, all-electric version of the beloved VW Bus classic.

    5 Fun Volkswagen Bus Facts

    1. Since the 1960s, the VW Bus has been an inspiration for art, including paintings and photographs.
    2. The VW Bus will forever be associated as a “hippie van” because of the impact it had while traveling to Woodstock in 1969.
    3. The VW Bus has been popular in television and film, including That ’70s Show and Cars, the animated film by Pixar.
    4. The VW Bus has a huge enthusiast following. In fact, the bus is often a main feature in car rallies and shows around the world.
    5. The original VW Bus is a highly sought after vehicle for car collectors and vehicle restoration specialists. The rarity of finding an original VW Bus is becoming harder and harder.

    JOIN THE CELEBRATION

    1. Share you photos, stories, and memories about your VW Bus on social media using #VWBusDay.
    2. Join Volkswagen Bus owners and enthusiasts, media influencers, and the general public on June 2 in Huntington Beach, California to celebrate International Volkswagen Bus Day.
    3. Take a road trip in your Volkswagen Bus with your family.
    4. Attend a car show and register your VW Bus to be in the show.
    5. Attend an car auction to see how the VW Bus and other VW vehicles sell to collectors and buyers.
    6. Learn about the great features the new ID. Buzz will offer consumers.

    HISTORY IN THE MAKING

    National Day Calendar and Volkswagen of America began a collaboration to establish International Volkswagen Bus Day to be celebrated each year on June 2. This International Day celebrates the iconic Volkswagen Bus and the new ID. Buzz, bringing smiles to the faces of generations, past, present, future.

    Volkswagen of America is committed to the heritage of the Volkswagen Bus.

    Are there any museums I can see vehicles from the Volkswagen through the years? Absolutely! There are a few museums in the U.S. where you can see a variety of VW vehicles and here is our shortlist:

    1. The Petersen Museum | Los Angeles, CA
    2. America’s Car Museum | Tacoma, WA
    3. Museum of Drag Racing | Ocala, FL
    4. Volo Museum | Volo, IL
    5. The National Automobile Museum | Reno, NV

    Related National Days

  • NATIONAL CAREER COACH DAY | January 8

    NATIONAL CAREER COACH DAY | January 8

    Each year on January 8 we celebrate National Career Coach Day and recognize the important work of career coaches across the United States.

    #NationalCareerCoachDay

    Today, we bring awareness to the impact career coaches have on their clients’ career paths and future potential. Not only are career coaches helping shape the future of the workplace, they are also helping people find fulfilling careers they deserve. On National Career Coach Day, we bring comradery to the profession, give coaches a day to come together, and create a space to celebrate all of the  accomplishments made during the process.

    What is a career coach? Career coaches are expert professionals who are up-to-date on current employment and hiring practices. These individuals wear specialized hats in helping people plan careers, create dynamic resumes, teach interview and wage negotiation skills, and guide you through the process of landing an amazing career. Most importantly, a career coach will work hard to help you accomplish your career goals.

    Why would I need a career coach? People choose to work with a career coach for a variety of reasons. Your current job situation may not bring you enjoyment or you might feel you are on the wrong career path. A career coach will help you understand your potential by learning about your past experiences and guide you towards a happier life.

    Choosing a Career Coach

    • Decide what type of career coach you want to hire. Like any profession, some career coaches specialize in specific areas. Make sure your decision is the best fit for you.
    • Narrow down the services you will need before hiring a career coach. This avoids paying for unnecessary services.
    • Interview career coaches to determine if they are a good fit for you. Personality plays an important roll when working together. Choose someone that you “click” with and will provide you the best value.
    • Check references your career coach provides. Verify training, certification, and clients.

    Benefits of a Career Coach

    Career coaches are in high demand in today’s business world. In fact, the career coaching profession is growing at rapid rate and is quickly reaching a $20 million dollar industry. Previously thought of as a service available for the wealthy, career coaching is now affordable to everyone.

    The career coach industry has expanded into the business sector, too. Companies are employing career coaches full time for a variety of services, such as:

    • Reviewing applications for specific job skills for potential employees.
    • Preparing correspondence and inquiries for employers.
    • Working with current employees to increase productivity.
    • Improving and updating personal goals company-wide.
    • Encouraging and inspiring employees to keep moral high.

    SUPPORT CAREER COACHES

    • Host a career coach summit.
    • Provide free resources or tools to perspective clients.
    • Make referrals to a career coach who has helped you.
    • Become a career coach.
    • Send a thank you card to your career coach thanking them for helping you find your dream job.
    • Support your career coach by sharing their services with friends and family.
    • Recognize and share your experiences with a career coach and use #NationalCareerCoachDay on social media.

    FOUNDER

    Career Benders and National Day Calendar are excited to announce the newly established National Career Coach Day. Beginning in 2023, this new National Day will be celebrated on January 8, and each year after. Join us as we recognize the important work career coaches provide to people across the country.

    Dream Big

    Founder of Career Benders, Angie M. Callen, is a Carnegie Mellon University graduate with a degree in Civil Engineering. In 2008, after working over six years as an engineer, she set out to pursue a career move into a more creative, communicative environment. After an unexpected career change journey, which included more  than four years as a nonprofit executive, Angie set out to create a business of her own. 

    Angie has always been told she had a gift for seeing others’ strengths, and after making career choices that led to professional gratitude and fulfillment, she set out on a mission to do the same for others. She also has a gift for helping people leverage their strengths to build confidence, overcome career trauma, achieve a level-up, and navigate the chaotic world of job searching. Through her work at Career Benders, Angie is helping people find new careers, improve management skills, move into leadership, and even start businesses.

    Achieving your dreams and creating a career path that supports your personal and professional goals is possible. The sky is the limit, and we’re #inspiringconfidentprofessionals one client at a time.

  • 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.

  • NATIONAL MERRI MUSIC DAY | October 25

    NATIONAL MERRI MUSIC DAY | October 25

    October 25 celebrates National Merri Music Day to honor an innovative sound system and a music concept that began post World War II in Jamaica.

    #NationalMerriMusicDay

    On National Merri Music Day, we are celebrating the Merritone Sound System as the oldest sound system on the planet. Merritone is the only sound system founded in the original sound system era of the 1940s and 1950s that is still in operation. As the last sound standing, Merritone Music encourages music lovers around the globe to learn about the historical movement that has influenced musical genres in Jamaica and the world.

    What is a Sound System? 

    A sound system of the late 1940s and 50s is a public address apparatus with turntables attached to it for sound reinforcement and the amplification of music. Today, sound systems are still a big part of the Jamaica musical scene with many famous selectors, aka DJs.

    The original sound systems were born out of a need to bring music and entertainment to Jamaica’s working class. Before the sound systems, musical entertainment in Jamaica came from live bands. The cost associated with these events limited attendees to upper class Jamaicans and tourists. Thus, with the introduction of the sound system, contemporary music was brought to the masses. Sound systems played at house parties, lawns, and dancehalls.

    How old is Merritone Music? Originating over 55 years ago, Merritone Music turns 72 years old in 2022. Merritone sound system hails from Morant Bay, which is the capital of the parish of St. Thomas in southeastern Jamaica. Merritone’s founder, Val Blake loved Latin music and dances, such as cha cha cha, waltz, and slow love songs, which gave this sound system its distinctly identifiable music formula.

    Iconic Influence

    Merritone Music is credited for directly influencing the rise of ska, reggae, rock steady, and the present-day dancehall music culture. In fact, unlike live music where a single or a few genres of music are played, Merritone offers a variety of Jamaican mento, calypso, American R&B, and country during a session or party.

    Many musicians and producers sought out Merritone Music to play their records, such as Bob Marley and producers Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, Winston ‘Niney’ Holness, and Bunny ‘Striker’ Lee, to name a few. Often, they would play songs not found on the radio. In fact, they were famous for making B-side records instant hits. This was one of the main reasons local artists flocked to Merritone Music performances. If they could  get their song played at a Merritone session, it was going to be a hit. Their influence made local artists highly successful.

    MERRI SOUNDING MUSIC

    • Learn the complete history of the Merritone Sound System.
    • Attend Merritone Sound System sessions.
    • Research Jamaican culture and history.
    • Make plans to attend a future Merritone Reunion.
    • Share and post your Merritone Music stories using #NationalMerriMusicDay.

    HISTORICAL SOUND

    National Day Calendar gives credit to Monique Blake of Merritone Music Inc. as the founder of National Merri Music Day. The day honors her grandfather Val Blake’s birthday, October 25th. Val died in 1956, leaving behind four sons, Trevor, Winston, Tyrone, and Monte. His 2 oldest sons, Trevor, and Winston took charge of the sound system after his death.

    Trevor would eventually migrate to the U.S leaving Winston and his 2 younger brothers to continue Merritone. The Blake brothers stood out as the only sound that would feature a family of DJs. While all brothers played, Winston and Monte are the two most recognized selectors. Winston was instrumental in making the Merritone sound a Jamaican national treasure and a global phenomenon.

    National Merritone Music Memories

    Winston Blake was born on November 19, 1940, to Ruthlyn and Winston St. Valentine “Val” Blake. Ruthlyn died shortly after the birth of Monte, the youngest Merritone brother. Val was left to care for his 4 sons. As a Public Works accountant and a part time Philips Electronics salesman, he searched for additional ways to support his family.

    Trevor and Winston attended school in Kingston. One day after school, while waiting at a bus stop, they heard music pumping from Mr. Chin’s Sky Rocket Sound System. They came home and urged their father to start a sound system as a means to generate extra income. In the beginning, Val resisted because sound systems were not considered socially acceptable for the middle class. Eventually, he gave in and Merritone Music was born. The sound system went on to break down the stigma of sound systems and brought music to both working and middle class people, national and international politicians, Jamaican prime ministers, world renowned musicians, and music lovers from around the world.

    Facts and Tidbits

    Merritone Music is the last ‘sound’ standing. It is the only sound system that began in the original sound system era of the 1940s and 1950s that continues to play today. In addition, it is the only sound system to play on all modern musical formats, including shellac 78 RPM, vinyl records, 8 track, cassette, CDs, and digital music.

    As many firsts in sound system, music, and Jamaican history, Merritone Music stands out as a historic presence. Always using music to unite the people of the world, Merritone has been breaking down social barriers since its creation. In the 1960s the Merritone brothers played at the University of West Indies, exposing students from middle-class families to a sound system. In the 1970s, Merritone became the first sound system to play at a world class hotel, the Sheraton in New Kingston.

    Winston sought to showcase Jamaican talent and started the Merritone VIP Talent Exposure. This show discovered some of Jamaica’s most prominent singers including the following:

    • Cynthia ‘Songbird’ Schloss
    • Beresford Hammond
    • The Tamlins
    • Jacob Miller
    • Ruddy Thomas
    • The Mighty Diamonds.

    Merritone Music began playing in New York in the late 60s, but it was not until the 70s that international tours became a mainstay. They played in US cities like Miami, Ft. Lauderdale, New York, as well as Toronto and London where Merritone fans moved to during the Great Migration. It was the first Jamaican based sound system to play internationally.

    In 1972, Winston opened the Turntable Club. It became the home of Merritone Music for the next 29 years. It was the site of the first live recording session at a night club in Jamaica featuring Dennis Brown. Entertainers like Marvin Gaye, Keith Richards, Johnny Nash, Bob Marley, and Jimmy Cliff frequented the club.

    Turntable Club is Jamaica’s longest running nightclub. In fact, in honor of its contribution to Jamaica’s musical culture, Turntable Club was designated a National Heritage site in 2018 by the Government of Jamaica.

    Awards & Commendations

    1997: The Government of Jamaica awarded Winston Blake with the Order of Distinction (OD), the highest civilian recognition, in honor of his contributions to Jamaican music.

    2000: St Thomas Municipal Council renamed Bay Mount (the original Merritone Music home site) to Blake Hill in recognition of Merritone Music’s 50th anniversary.

    2000: Reggae Canada honored Winston Blake with the Icons Award.

    2008: The United States House of Representatives 11th Congressional district honored Winston Blake for his contribution to Brooklyn, NY and its citizens.

    2008: University of West Indies, Mona School of Business held a Symposium on Merritone Sound System as one of Jamaica’s longest running family-owned businesses.

    2012: Nassau County New York honored Winston Blake for his dedicated service to the community.

    2015: International Reggae Day honors Merritone Music with a Pioneer Sound Award

    2017: JARIA (Jamaica Reggae Industry Association) posthumously honors Winston Blake for exceptional contribution to the reggae industry.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • NATIONAL CINEMA DAY | September 3

    NATIONAL CINEMA DAY | September 3

    On September 3 National Cinema Day celebrates movie lovers across the country and encourages them to return to the theatre and enjoy a movie on the big screen. 

     #NationalCinemaDay 

    We all have memories of going to the movie theater. The excitement we felt waiting in anticipation for our favorite movie star to appear on the screen was exciting. No movie was complete without a box of fresh buttered popcorn and our favorite drink in hand. If we were lucky, we were able to get some candy, too. On National Cinema Day, everyone is encouraged to go to a movie and relive that special feeling of seeing your favorite movie star on the big screen. 

    Behind the Scenes 

    Movies have been around since the late 1800s. Louis Le Prince receives credit for coming up with the idea of moving images on a screen. His Praxinoscope invention was a single-lens camera that had the ability to take 12 frames per second. Le Prince was in the process of patenting his invention when he was killed by an unknown person. Even though he met his demise, Le Prince was the inspiration for an industry that awes us just as much as the original movies did.  

    Who invented motion pictures? Thomas Edison receives the credit for inventing the first device to show a motion picture. In fact, Edison would be the first to commercially sell his kinetoscope invention even though he was skeptical about his idea. Interestingly, the device would be used in public kinetoscope parlors for public view. By 1915, small theaters were set up in storefronts to view a motion picture known as nickelodeons.

    5 Early Motion Pictures

    • 1891 – Dickson Greeting
    • 1893 – Blacksmith Scene
    • 1895 – The Execution of Mary Stuart
    • 1896 – Le Manoir du diable (The House of the Devil)
    • 1902 – A Trip to the Moon (1902)

    Motion pictures have come a long way since the beginning. As technology has improved, so has the production of what we view on the screen. During the early years of movie production, the audience was awed by the ability to view moving people on the screen. Movies were in black and white and had no sound. Most of the time, live music was playing within a theater as the film moved on the screen. Today, movie goers expect to see amazing graphics, realistic stunts, and hear astounding music scores.

    CINEMA CELEBRATIONS

    THROUGH THE LENSE

    This celebration is being promoted by The National Association of Theater Owners and The Cinema Foundation to encourage people to head to the theater. The foundation is offering special pricing of $3 movies at participating theaters as a way to celebrate today.  If you would like more information about a participating theater in your area, visit www.nationalcinemaday.org.

  • Do You Know About National Day Radio?

    Have You Heard?

    National Day Radio is spending the day with music dedicated to celebrating National Days

    Listening is as easy as downloading the National Day Calendar app to your mobile device through the Apple iStore or Google Play Store:

    Apple
    https://nationaldaycalendar.com/iStore

    Android
    https://nationaldaycalendar.com/PlayStore

    Once you have the National Day Calendar app installed, simply click the Media icon and choose National Day Radio.


    You can also take a moment to read more by visiting the here. 

    There are over 1,500 national days. Don’t miss a single one. Celebrate Every Day® with National Day Calendar®!

    National Day Calendar is protected under the copyright laws of the United States. For a full description, see our Copyright rules.
  • GIS DAY – Third Wednesday in November

    GIS DAY

    On the third Wednesday in November, GIS Day celebrates the technology of Geographic Information Systems. It’s also a day to discover and understand the benefits of GIS.

    A Geographic Information System (GIS) connects data to a map and integrates location data with descriptive information. This system of mapping and analysis is used in science and other industries. One example of a world problem that GIS tries to help solve is the opioid epidemic in the United States.

    Using GIS, researchers are able to attain a geographic view of opioid prescriptions made throughout the country. This data is used to compare different regions of the country. This allows governments and other officials to see where more resources are needed to combat the problem. One map attained using GIS shows that West Virginia has the highest overdose rate in the country.

    Other industries that use GIS include:

    • Supply chain management
    • Insurance
    • Forestry and timber
    • Urban planning
    • Banking
    • Health and human services

    These industries use GIS to uncover patterns, understand trends, monitor changes, perform forecasting, and respond to events. All of this helps public officials and governments to make better decisions, establish priorities. and solve problems.

    While GIS sounds fairly modern, it was first established in the 1960s. In 1963, Roger Tomlinson developed the Canada Geographic Information System. This turned into the first computerized GIS in the world.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #GISDay

    Educators, technology coordinators, cartographers, and other organizations around the world hold events on this day that help people learn more about GIS. These events include meet and greets with GIS professionals, GIS demonstrations, and workshops on digital geographies.

    To participate:

    • Find examples of GIS maps online.
    • Learn more about GIS and how it benefits various industries.
    • Download the GIS Day app to your phone.
    • Teach your kids about geography and digital mapmaking.

    Share this day on social media with #GISDay.

    GIS DAY HISTORY

    The first GIS Day was held in 1999. Ralph Nader is credited for inspiring the global event. Nader considers the event a good initiative for people to learn about geography and the many uses of GIS. Several organizations sponsor this day. These organizations include National Geographic Society, United States Geological Survey, Library of Congress, and Environmental Systems Research Institute (Esri).

    DATES:
    16 November 2022
    15 November 2023
    20 November 2024
    19 November 2025
    18 November 2026
    17 November 2027
    15 November 2028
    21 November 2029
    20 November 2030
    19 November 2031

     

  • WORLD COLLEGE RADIO DAY – First Friday in October

    WORLD COLLEGE RADIO DAY | FIRST FRIDAY IN OCTOBER

    College radio stations worldwide play an important role in students’ education while also providing a diverse schedule of local news, music, sports, and interviews. On the first Friday in October, World College Radio Day celebrates the impact these stations have on their students and audiences. The day also invites new listeners to tune in to experience college radio for the first time and aims to raise greater international awareness of the many college radio stations operating worldwide.

    #WorldCollegeRadioDay

    What can you expect from college radio? Because donations and grants, not commercial funding, support the stations, college radio has the creative flexibility other stations do not. Those involved in its programming also believe passionately in its mission. Another unparalleled quality of college radio is the music it plays. College radio is the only free, live medium brave enough to play unsigned, local, and independent artists frequently. Indeed, many famous and successful bands today owe their initial break to being played on college radio. College radio is an important part of the media landscape because of its unique and fearless programming. College radio also provides:

    • Live local sports
    • A variety of music
    • Commentary
    • Public Affairs
    • Talk Shows
    • Game Shows

    For students seeking a career in media or broadcasting, college radio offers an opportunity to develop experience in many facets of radio. As a result, they sharpen their skills and build their confidence while providing a service to their peers and the greater community.

    World College Radio Day also offers the opportunity for individual college stations to fundraise and gain support for their programming. The day includes all formats, AM, FM, or online radio. It also invites listeners to tune into both high school and college radio. So tune in on World College Radio Day and listen to something innovative and new!

    HOW TO OBSERVE WPRLD COLLEGE RADIO DAY

    Join the worldwide celebration of College Radio! Whether your college radio station joins the event with interviews, special broadcasts, music, and stories, or you tune in to a college radio station, share the day!

    • Share the call letters of your favorite college radio station.
    • Tune in on AM, FM, or online.
    • Be a part of an interview or submit a story suggestion.
    • Create a fundraiser for your station.
    • Take your station to the street for live interviews.
    • Tell the station why you love them.
    • Support your local college radio station by playing it at your place of business.

    Share your events using #WorldCollegeRadioDay on social media.

    WORLD COLLEGE RADIO DAY HISTORY

    College Radio Day logos

    The idea for College Radio Day began with Dr. Rob Quicke (General Manager, WPSC FM, William Paterson University, NYC market) in 2010. He worked with Peter Kreten (General Manager WXAV FM, Saint Xavier University, Chicago market) to further develop the idea, and in December 2010, Dr. Quicke founded College Radio Day.

    The first College Radio Day took place in 2011. By the second year, the event exploded across 29 countries, with 585 college radio stations participating. The celebration continues to grow year after year. It has also been recognized by President Barack Obama and publications like The New York Times, USA Today, Washington Post, and many more.

    World College Radio Day grew out of College Radio Day in the USA, as more countries around the world got involved. In 2021, the College Radio Foundation submitted World College Radio Day to National Day Calendar.

    The Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed World College Radio Day in 2022 to be observed annually on the first Friday in October.

    DATES:
    7 October 2022
    6 October 2023
    4 October 2024
    3 October 2025
    2 October 2026
    1 October 2027
    6 October 2028
    5 October 2029
    4 October 2030
    3 October 2031
    1 October 2032