• JANUARY 24, 2023 | NATIONAL COMPLIMENT DAY | NATIONAL PEANUT BUTTER DAY | BEER CAN APPRECIATION DAY

    JANUARY 24, 2023 | NATIONAL COMPLIMENT DAY | NATIONAL PEANUT BUTTER DAY | BEER CAN APPRECIATION DAY

    National Compliment Day | January 25
    National Compliment Day | January 25

    NATIONAL COMPLIMENT DAY

    National Compliment Day on January 24th offers a wonderful way to brighten someone’s day or to give credit for a job well done!  Give an extra compliment annually on January 24th and any time one is deserved. Read more…

    National Peanut Butter Day | January 24
    National Peanut Butter Day | January 24

    NATIONAL PEANUT BUTTER DAY

    National Peanut Butter Day on January 24th recognizes an American staple in our pantries. Whether creamy or chunky, with chocolate or with jelly, peanut butter gets the recognition it deserves each year on this day. Read more…

    BEER CAN APPRECIATION DAY

    Beer Can Appreciation Day recognizes the great day in 1935 when beer was first sold in cans. Read more…

    On Deck for January 25, 2023

    National Days
    NATIONAL OPPOSITE DAY
    LIBRARY SHELFIE DAY
    NATIONAL IRISH COFFEE DAY
    NATIONAL FLORIDA DAY

    International Days
    BURNS SUPPER

    Recipe of the Day

    Peanut Butter BBQ Chicken Pizza recipe

    Peanut Butter BBQ Chicken Pizza

    Prep Time:  30 minutes
    Bake Time: 10-12 minutes
    Total Prep: About 40 minutes
    Serves 4 (with 2 slices each)

    Ingredients:

    1 package pizza crust
    1 cup shredded rotisserie chicken
    1 tablespoon peanut butter
    1/4 cup BBQ sauce
    2 green onions, chopped
    8 oz. mozzarella cheese

    Instructions: 

    Prepare packaged crust according to package directions.

    Combine peanut butter with 1/4 cup of BBQ sauce and mix thoroughly.

    Spread over the prepared and partially-baked crust.

    Add chopped rotisserie chicken, green onions, and mozzarella cheese.

    Bake 10-12 minutes until cheese begins to turn golden.

    January 24th Celebrated History

    1848

    The California Gold Rush begins when contractor James W. Marshall discovers the first gold samples while working for John A Sutter in Coloma, California.

    1908

    Robert Baden-Powell organizes the first Boy Scout troop in England.

    1935

    Krueger Brewing Company and American Can Company joined forces to bring the first canned beer to the market.

    1950

    Percy L. Spencer receives U.S. patent no. 2,495,429 for a “Method of Treating Foodstuffs” otherwise known as the microwave oven.

    1985

    Discovery launches from Kennedy Space Center on a secret mission deploying an eavesdropping satellite.

    January 24th Celebrated Birthdays

    Maria Tallchief – 1925

    In 1947, the professional dancer became the first prima ballerina of the New York City Ballet and is considered America’s first notable prima ballerina.

    Neil Diamond – 1941

    For more than five decades the singer-songwriter has influenced generations of artists. Hits like “Sweet Caroline,” “Song Sung Blue,” “America,” and “Forever in Blue Jeans” also earned him induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

    John Belushi – 1949

    In 1975, comedian and actor John Belushi joined six other cast members on the live satirical comedy sketch show Saturday Night Live. He also starred in several movies, sometimes with his brother Jim.

    Mary Lou Retton – 1968

    In 1984, the American gymnast won gold in the individual all-around competition in the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, California.

    About National Day Calendar

    National Day Calendar is the original and authoritative source for fun, unusual and unique National Days! Since our humble beginnings on National Popcorn Day in 2013, we have been tracking the National Days, National Weeks, National Months, and International Days. We became the first calendar of its kind to curate the days all in one place and tell their stories, too! Here at National Day Calendar, we are on a mission to Celebrate Every Day with you! And by you, we mean families, businesses, educators, and strangers we meet on the street. There’s more than one day for everyone.

    At National Day Calendar, we discovered the National Days have a way of inspiring us. We’re honored to tell the stories behind the days and provide you with informational ways to incorporate the National Days into your business, family, schools, and home!

    •

    Doug

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  • JANUARY 11, 2023 | NATIONAL HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS DAY | NATIONAL MILK DAY | NATIONAL STEP IN A PUDDLE AND SPLASH YOUR FRIENDS DAY | NATIONAL ARKANSAS DAY

    JANUARY 11, 2023 | NATIONAL HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS DAY | NATIONAL MILK DAY | NATIONAL STEP IN A PUDDLE AND SPLASH YOUR FRIENDS DAY | NATIONAL ARKANSAS DAY

    Human Trafficking Awareness Day | January 11

    NATIONAL HUMAN TRAFFICKING AWARENESS DAY

    National Human Trafficking Awareness Day on January 11th brings attention to a crime that leaves a lasting toll on human life, families, and communities around the world. Read more…

    National Milk Day | January 11

    NATIONAL MILK DAY

    National Milk Day on January 11th commemorates the day many think the first milk deliveries in glass bottles began in the United States. Alexander Campbell of the New York Dairy Company professed to the New York State Senate that his company was the first to make these deliveries in 1878. Read more…

    National Step in a Puddle and Splash Your Friends Day

    NATIONAL STEP IN A PUDDLE AND SPLASH YOUR FRIENDS DAY

    On National Step in a Puddle and Splash Your Friends Day, particular criteria must be present to celebrate. On January 11th, unless the ideal conditions prevail, some areas of the country may have to create them. So, can we really? Well, yes, the name of the day says you can!  Life is short….let’s have fun! And good luck. Read more…

    National Arkansas Day | January 11

    NATIONAL ARKANSAS DAY

    On January 11th, National Arkansas Day recognizes the Natural State and the 25th state to join the union. Read more…

    On Deck for January 12, 2023

    National Days
    KISS A GINGER DAY 
    NATIONAL MARZIPAN DAY
    NATIONAL CURRIED CHICKEN DAY
    NATIONAL PHARMACIST DAY

    Recipe of the Day

    Braised Chicken and Celery

    Braised Chicken and Celery
    Prep:  10 minutes
    Cook: 40 minutes
    Total Prep:  50 minutes
    Servings: 5 servings

    Ingredients:

    4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
    1 tablespoon coconut oil
    8 celery stalks
    4 medium new potatoes, cubed
    1/2 cup white wine
    1 3/4 cup chicken broth
    1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
    1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt

    Instructions:

    Season chicken with salt and pepper.

    Coat chicken in flour. Shake off excess.

    Heat oil in a large skillet over medium to high heat.

    Add the chicken pieces to the pan and cook for approximately 10 minutes, turning occasionally.

    Place chicken in a bowl and cover.

    While the chicken is cooking, prepare the celery.

    Separate the pale, tender leaves and set aside for a garnish.

    Cut celery stalks into 3-inch pieces.

    After removing the chicken, reduce heat to medium and add celery and potatoes.

    Stir and cook for 5 minutes.

    Pour in the wine and stir, deglazing the bottom of the pan.

    When most of the liquid has evaporated, add the broth and mustard and stir well.

    Add the chicken to the pan and bring to a boil.

    Lower the heat, cover the pan and simmer until the chicken is cooked through and tender – about 20 to 25 minutes.

    Remove the chicken and vegetables from the pan to a serving dish, leaving the sauce and drippings.

    Over medium heat, cook the sauce for an additional 5 to 6 minutes until thickened.

    Stir in yogurt and season with salt and pepper to taste.

    Pour over chicken. Garnish with celery leaves and serve hot.

    January 11th Celebrated History

    1878

    Brooklyn, New York, begins delivering milk in glass bottles.

    1922

    Doctors give insulin for the first time to treat a diabetes patient. Fourteen-year-old Leonard Thompson receives the life-saving injection developed by Dr. Frederick Banting and Dr. Charles Best. He had an initial allergic reaction likely caused by an impurity in the insulin. After delaying further injections, 12 days later a more pure form of insulin was given by Dr. James Collip, ultimately saving his life.

    1935

    Amelia Earhart flies solo from Hawaii to California becomes the first person to complete the transpacific flight.

    1964

    For the first time, smoking is publicly and officially recognized as a health hazard by U.S. Surgeon General Luther Terry. In a statement, he announced the results of a study ordered by President John F. Kennedy in 1962.

    January 11th Celebrated Birthdays

    Alexander Hamilton – 1755

    As a Founding Father of the United States, Hamilton served his country defending the U.S. Constitution on and off the battlefield. George Washington trusted him as the country’s first Secretary of Treasury and in that role, Hamilton created enduring financial cornerstones. A rivalry between Hamilton and Aaron Burr dominates the history books, too.

    Ezra Cornell – 1807

    A man of many industries, Cornell founded the Western Union Telegraph Company, co-founded Cornell University, and established the first library in Ithaca.

    Elisabeth Achelis -1880

    Elisabeth Achelis advocated for a perpetual calendar that would replace the Gregorian calendar and in 1930 founded the World Calendar Association.

    Calvin Blackman Bridges – 1889

    The geneticist’s observations of mutations in fruit flies led to a breakthrough understanding of heredity and the chromosome.

    Mary J. Blige – 1971

    The award-winning artist released her first solo album in 1992 with What’s the 411?. Since then, Blige has also pursued an acting career that earned her an Oscar nod for Mudbound in 2017.

    About National Day Calendar

    National Day Calendar is the original and authoritative source for fun, unusual and unique National Days! Since our humble beginnings on National Popcorn Day in 2013, we have been tracking the National Days, National Weeks, National Months, and International Days. We became the first calendar of its kind to curate the days all in one place and tell their stories, too! Here at National Day Calendar, we are on a mission to Celebrate Every Day with you! And by you, we mean families, businesses, educators, and strangers we meet on the street. There’s more than one day for everyone.

    At National Day Calendar, we discovered the National Days have a way of inspiring us. We’re honored to tell the stories behind the days and provide you with informational ways to incorporate the National Days into your business, family, schools, and home!

    •

    Doug

    •

  • April 2023

    April 1

    April 2

    April 3

    April 4

    April 5

    April 6

    April 7

    April 8

    April 9

    April 10

    April 11

    April 12

    April 13

    April 14

    April 15

    April 16

    April 17

    April 18

    April 19

    April 20

    April 21

    April 22

    April 23

    April 24

    April 25

    April 26

    April 27

    April 28

    April 29

    April 30

    APRIL HOLIDAYS AND HISTORY

    April is the fourth month of the year and consists of 30 days on the Grеgоrіаn саlеndаr and іtѕ рrеdесеѕѕоr, the Julіаn саlеndаr. Itѕ nаmе is derived from thе Latin wоrd aperit, which means “tо ореn.”  In the Northern Hemisphere, April is a part of the growing season. The sun warms the earth, awakening the plants and blossoms and leaves “open” bright and new. It is аlѕо bеlіеvеd thаt the mоnth’ѕ nаmе is named after the Greek gоddеѕѕ, Aphrodite (Aphros). 

    April wasn’t always the fourth month. Originally, the Roman calendar placed the month second, though it still соnѕіѕtеd оf 30 dауѕ. It became the fourth mоnth соnѕіѕtіng оf only 29 dауѕ when January wаѕ dеѕіgnаtеd thе fіrѕt month of thе уеаr around 450 BCE. Aрrіl became 30 dауѕ lоng again whеn Julius Cаеѕаr rеfоrmеd thе calendar.

    Weather & Seasons

    April is the second month of spring and оn the lірѕ оf many is the оld saying “Aрrіl ѕhоwеrѕ bring May flowers.” Thе сhіllу wіndѕ аnd damp wеаthеr аrе nоt yet done. Aрrіl then іѕ a hореful month ѕhоwіng the promise оf bеаutу in the nоt too distant future. In the Southern Hemisphere, fall begins.

    The Eаѕtеr holiday most оftеn fаllѕ durіng April. Eаѕtеr is thе соmmеmоrаtіоn оf thе dеаth аnd resurrection оf Jesus. Mаnу оf thе rituals ѕurrоundіng іtѕ сеlеbrаtіоn hаvе a раgаn оrіgіn іnсludіng hіdіng easter еggѕ. Eggѕ are a ѕуmbоl оf fеrtіlіtу and nеw life.

    April’s full moon is called the Pink Moon and represents the pink phlox flower that blooms in April. When the Pink Moon is also the first full moon of spring it is called the Paschal moon.

    April is also a terrific month for sports. The official baseball season begins. Golf gets into the swing of things, too plus basketball and hockey are in the midst of their regular season. Professional soccer is heading toward season finales.

    What’s Your Sign?

    Those born in April are either an Aries (the Ram) or Taurus (the Bull). A diamond is April’s best friend…we mean birthstone. The birth flowers are daisy and sweet pea.

    Five Fast Facts

    1. April Fool’s Day may have оrіgіnаtеd іn Frаnсе whеrе Nеw Yеаrѕ Dау was сеlеbrаtеd during Mеdіеvаl times оn April 1st. When Grеgоrу XIII changed it back to January 1st іn 1582, mаnу people in rurаl areas dіd nоt mаkе thе сhаngе for ѕеvеrаl уеаrѕ. Thе соѕmороlіtаn сіtу dwеllеrѕ thought thеm fools fоr thіѕ rеаѕоn, аnd іt bесаmе the fаѕhіоn to tаkе advantage of thе nаіvеtе оf thе provincials оn this dаtе. The рrасtісе ѕрrеаd tо England аnd other Englіѕh speaking соuntrіеѕ.

    2. April ѕtаrtѕ оn thе ѕаmе dау оf thе week as Julу аnd ends on thе ѕаmе dау of thе week аѕ Dесеmbеr іn соmmоn уеаrѕ. Durіng leap уеаrѕ, April ѕtаrtѕ on thе ѕаmе dау оf thе wееk аѕ Jаnuаrу.

    3. Those born in April share their birthdays with:

    • Lon Chaney
    • Susan Boyle
    • Buddy Ebsen
    • Marvin Gaye
    • Emmylou Harris
    • Billy Holiday
    • Francis Ford Coppola
    • Jackie Chan
    • John Madden
    • Booker T. Washington
    • Clarence Darrow
    • Barbara Streisand
    • Chipper Jones
    • Duke Ellington
    • Willie Nelson
    • Andre Agassi
    • Eddy Murphy
    • Robert Downey Jr.
    • Paul Rudd
    • Russel Crowe
    • Patricia Arquette
    • William Shakespeare
    • Jamie Chung
    • David Letterman
    • Adrien Brody
    • Emma Watson
    • Martin Lawrence
    • America Ferrera
    • Ashley Judd
    • Jack Nicholson
    • Kal Penn
    • George Lopez
    • Djimon Hounsou
    • Al Pacino
    • Jay Leno
    • Uma Thurman
    • Kirsten Dunst

    4. Spring cleaning is associated with several cultures but its place in April comes from the Jewish tradition to prepare the home for Passover. It’s also part of the Christian tradition in preparation for the first day of Lent.

    5. How many people do know named April? The name “April” is ranked Aрrіl іѕ аlѕо a рорulаr nаmе gіvеn tо a lоt оf реорlе. In the United States, the name Aрrіl іѕ thе 453rd mоѕt соmmоn nаmе. The United Kingdom ranks the name slightly higher at 278th most common name. 

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    National Day Calendar

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  • January 2023

    January 1

    January 2

    January 3

    January 4

    January 5

    January 6

    January 7

    January 8

    January 9

    January 10

    January 11

    January 12

    January 13

    January 14

    January 15

    January 16

    January 17

    January 18

    January 19

    January 20

    January 21

    January 22

    January 23

    January 24

    January 25

    January 26

    January 27

    January 28

    January 29

    January 30

    January 31

    JANUARY HISTORY

    Ringing in a new year means new beginnings and endings. Celebrating the New Year is the first holiday on the calendar, but the world didn’t always see January that way.

    Around 700 B.C., January replaced March as the first month of the year. Roman king Numa Pompilius revised the calendar and added two months to it. However, many religions continued to celebrate the new year either on March 25th or December 25th according to their church calendars. Even the Julian calendar did not indicate a clear beginning and end to the year. Then in 1582, Pope Gregory developed the Gregorian calendar and most of the world came around to January 1 being the beginning of the New Year.

    Janus is the Roman god of beginnings and endings. He’s a protector of gates, doorways, and transitions. January takes its name from this tow-headed god, and it makes us wonder why it took so long to celebrate the new year in January, but it did.

    Speaking of new beginnings, the entire month is full of holidays that help us to start fresh. National Personal Trainer Awareness Day reminds us to be kind to our trainers in the first days of the year – they’re kind of busy with all of us who made resolutions. We’re encouraged to clean off our desks, make travel plans a priority, and use up old gift cards.

    January Weather & Seasons Facts

    January is the second month of Winter in the Northern Hemisphere, but in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s summer. The Wolf Moon rises in January so it’s a great opportunity to howl at the full moon. While it’s uncertain where the name for this moon is derived, it’s interesting to note that the month used to be called Wolfmonath. As food became scarce, wolves would begin scavenging and could be heard howling at the moon.

    While the month is full of resolutions, it also includes many other traditions, too. Like other months, it has its own stones and flowers. Fortunately for anyone born in January, their birthstone is the Garnet which comes in a wide variety of stunning colors.

    Capricorns and Aquarius are born in January. You share your birthday month with Elvis Presley, Virginia Woolf, JRR Tolkien, Bessie Coleman, Martin Luther King, Martin Luther King Jr., Jeannette Piccard, J.D. Salinger, Zora Hurston, A.A. Milne, Carrie Chapman Catt, Edgar Allan Poe, Alma Ziegler, and Dian Fossey. The carnation and snowdrop are your birth flowers. Celebrate with National Seed Swap Day and prepare to plant your own!

    January is often a month of new beginnings and endings. Some of us embark on new health club memberships in an attempt to end old habits. Our new year’s resolutions help kick-off healthy habits placing us squarely on a path of health and renewal. While some of us succeed, many admit we will need to keep trying. New beginnings don’t always have to do with our physical self, though. Sometimes we challenge ourselves to new adventures or lifestyles.

    Astrological Facts of January

    If you’re born in January, your sign is either Capricorn or Aquarius. January’s birthstone is the garnet and comes primarily in the color red, but can also be in shades of orange, pink, green, and even black or brown. The carnation and snowdrop are your birth flowers. The carnation’s scientific name is Dianthus caryophyllus, and the flower’s color has different meanings around the world. Traditionally, though, its colors mean:

    • White = purity and luck
    • Light Red = admiration
    • Dark Red = love and affection
    • Pink = gratitude
    • Yellow = disappointment or rejection
    • Purple = capriciousness

    Who Are Notable People Born in January?

    • Elvis Presley
    • Virginia Woolf
    • JRR Tolkien
    • Bessie Coleman
    • Martin Luther King
    • Martin Luther King Jr.
    • Jeanne Picard
    • J.D. Salinger
    • Zora Hurston
    • A.A. Milne
    • Carrie Chapman Catt
    • Edgar Allan Poe
    • Alma Ziegler
    • Dian Fossey

    RANDOM JANUARY FACTS

    • The Earth always reaches perihelion in early January. Perihelion is when the Earth reaches its farthest point from the Sun.
    • The Quadrantid meteor shower occurs every year in January.
    • Pasadena, California hosts the Rose Parade each year in January.
    • Ellis Island opened on New Year’s Day 1892.

    In a month of new beginnings, it’s hard to imagine celebrating anything else, but we do. It’s time to toss out that old fruitcake – well toss it somewhere. January, like any month on the calendar, includes a variety of food holidays to challenge our resolutions. It also challenges us to try new things and rekindle some of the old ways.

    Our insurance policies start new in January, too. So when you hang up that new calendar, don’t forget to swap out your insurance cards, too.

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    National Day Calendar

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  • MEDIA ALERT | NEW DAY PROCLAMATION | NATIONAL STATES AND CAPITALS DAY | September 22

    NATIONAL STATE AND CAPITALS DAY | September 22
    National States and Capitals Day | September 22

    NATIONAL STATES AND CAPITALS DAY | September 22

    September 22 focuses on raising awareness and sharing education about all 50 states and their capitals on National States and Capitals Day.

    #NationalStatesandCapitalsDay

    As children, we learn about the 50 states and their capitals in the U.S. But as we get older, we tend to forget those important cities and their role in crafting policy and influencing the economy. And, while everybody knows their own state capital, many do not even remember the capital of the state next door. Today, let’s take the time to remind ourselves how important every state and capital is to our nation.

    Learning about States and Capitals

    Remember those paper maps we were given to learn about states and capitals? Our worksheet had blank states with star indicating where the capital was supposed to be. The agony of naming each state and capital was definitely stressful! We spent time memorizing names, where the state was and naming each capital. Not to mention spelling everything correctly. Some of us were lucky to have a teacher that would play a game to help us remember.

    Typically, we learn about states and capitals between the grades 3-6, starting with the state we live in. From there, we learn our country has 50 states and 50 capitals within each state. All 50 capitals have a unique history, which means there are 50 reasons why a specific city or town was chosen to be a state capital. In addition, we eventually learn how governments operate and the vital roll each state plays in our national government.

    Are state capitals found in the largest cities of each states? No. The first state capitals were built according the where the majority of the population lived in a state, or near a main access hub. For example, North Dakota is home of National Day Calendar. Our state capital is Bismarck, but was once the capital of the Dakota Territory. The Northern Pacific Railroad was built to transfer goods from eastern U.S. to the west, making Bismarck the prime location for state government. Bismarck became the official state capital only after the territory was split into 2 states–North and South Dakota.

    Huh?

    • The letter Q is the only letter NOT found in any of the state names
    • Sweet Home, Alabama is a real place.
    • It’s illegal to bury people in San Francisco, California.
    • New Jersey has a volcano.
    • South Carolina has a place called Monkey Island, that has over 4,000 rhesus monkeys.
    • The state bird for Wisconsin is a plastic flamingo.
    • There are more chickens in Delaware than there are people.
    • The Empire State Building in New York has it’s own zip code.

    State Capitals in Small Cities

    • Juneau, Alaska, population est. 32,300.
    • Dover, Delaware, population est. 39,400.
    • Frankfort, Kentucky, population est. 28,600.
    • Augusta, Maine, population est. 18,900.
    • Annapolis, Maryland, population est. 40,800.
    • Jefferson City, Missouri, population est. 43,230.
    • Helena, Montana, population est. 32,100.
    • Concord, New Hampshire, population est. 4,000.
    • Pierre, South Dakota, population est. 14,100.
    • Montpelier, Vermont, population est. 8,100.

    LEARN YOUR STATES AND CAPITALS

    • Divide learning about states into regions to learn each region before moving on to the next.
    • Check out a book from the library each week on a specific state to learn facts. Return the book and pick another state until all states have been covered.
    • Learn fun facts about states. What famous people are from there? What kind of tourist attractions might be fun to visit?
    • Fix a puzzle with all 50 states and capitals.
    • Draw a map of the United States with the states and fill in the capitals, too.
    • Use Dick & Jane Educational Snacks to help your kids learn about states and capitals.
    • Tag your videos learning states and capitals on social media #NationalStatesandCapitalsDay.

    BEHIND NATIONAL STATES AND CAPITALS DAY

    Dick & Jane Educational Snacks receives credit for the idea to celebrate National States and Capitals Day on September 22. Not only does it raise awareness about the importance of knowing all 50 states and capitals, it reminds people to have fun while learning.

    Owners Dick & Jane (yes, those are their real names), have a passion for education. With a mission to bring a fun way for kids to enjoy learning, they set out to help kids enjoy learning through creating a business of healthy snacks that also serve as learning tools. Primarily geared for students K-8, their snacks can be used as a teaching tool to learn about:

    If you would like more information about Dick & Jane Educational Snacks, please contact:

    Alisha Beasley
    Business Development Manager
    Alisha@EducationalSnacks.us
    248-519-2418

    •

    Doug

    •

  • NATIONAL SECONDHAND SUNDAY | Sunday after Thanksgiving

    NATIONAL SECONDHAND SUNDAY | Sunday after Thanksgiving

    The Sunday after Thanksgiving, we celebrate national Secondhand Sunday to embrace secondhand gifting, while supporting secondhand sellers and circular fashion during the peak holiday shopping season.

    #SecondhandSunday

    With the holiday shopping season in full swing, National Secondhand Sunday offers consumers a chance to embrace and reshape the perception of secondhand gifting. Today, we want to encourage everyone to consider a secondhand gift for everyone on their list.

    Why Shop Secondhand?

    Now, more than ever, there is both a need and a willingness to embrace the power of secondhand gifting. In a recent 2022 survey conducted by Morning Consult, more than 90 percent of U.S. adults are open to receiving a secondhand or resale gift this holiday season. In addition, more than half of those say they are very open to receiving something secondhand.

    The environmental benefits of shopping secondhand are also undeniable. Replacing just one new gift with a secondhand item has an impact on the environment. For example, gifting a vintage leather tote bag instead of purchasing a new one could save as much as 17,000 liters of water. That amount is what a single person would drink over 23 years!

    Join the national movement to make secondhand shopping a regular practice. In doing so, you will make choices that support individual economic empowerment, social connection, and environmental sustainability.

    Time for Secondhand to Shine

    Two out of five consumers are concerned inflation will make holiday shopping more expensive this year. Incidentally, the notion of shopping, selling, and gifting secondhand is gaining in popularity and for undeniable reasons. Some of the top reasons people choose secondhand gifts are:

    • Supports local communities and individual sellers.
    • Promotes environmental sustainability.
    • Access great deals.
    • Allows you to find unique items that may not be available on store shelves.
    • Provides an opportunity to connect on a more personal level when you shop from individual resellers.

    National Secondhand Sunday is not just for shoppers. This shopping day is for sellers, too. Secondhand sellers range from the casual side-hustler who wants to supplement their income, to individuals who have turned reselling into a full-time business. Regardless of where you might fall on the reseller spectrum, the opportunity to earn extra money to pay for your holiday gifts brings this movement full circle.

    Benefits of Secondhand Shopping

    • Helps to minimize the fast-fashion cycle and better the planet.
    • Ability to find unique, one-of-a-kind items across multiple categories.
    • Makes luxury and high-end items more accessible and affordable to shoppers.
    • Greater variety of sizes, fits and style options. 
    • Opportunity to support individual resellers.
    • It’s fun! Online resale companies and platforms are more popular than ever, making it easy to get started.

    Shopping secondhand can be a fun experience! Online resale companies and platforms are more popular than ever- making it easy to browse, ask questions, and even negotiate a better price.

    Expert Tips for Secondhand Shopping

    Learn the lingo if you are looking for high-dollar items. Researching words that identify brands names, designers, and quality material will help you narrow down your season and beyond.

    FOUNDER

    National Day Calendar announces the founding of National Secondhand Sunday to be celebrated the Sunday after Thanksgiving. This new National Day was submitted and approved in 2022 on behalf of Poshmark, the leading social marketplace for resale and secondhand items. Poshmark has taken charge of the social marketplace by empowering sellers, while giving buyers a more sustainable and unique alternatives during the holiday season and beyond.

    After establishing National Secondhand Sunday, Poshmark has set out to highlight the economic and environmental benefits of choosing secondhand items during the holidays. The company is fostering the movement to instill sustainable shopping habits year-round. They chose the Sunday after Thanksgiving because it lands within range of the biggest shopping days of the holiday season–Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday. In addition, Sunday is the busiest shopping day for Poshmark, so it was fitting to choose celebration of this National Day on a Sunday, too.

    About Poshmark

    Poshmark is a leading social marketplace for new and secondhand style for women, men, kids, pets, home and more. By combining the human connection of physical shopping with the scale, ease, and selection benefits of e-commerce, they are making buying and selling simple, social, and sustainable. With a community of more than 80 million registered users across the U.S., Canada, Australia, and India, Poshmark is driving the future of commerce and promoting more sustainable consumption.

    Follow them on social media.

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    Amy

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  • NATIONAL STATES AND CAPITALS DAY | September 22

    NATIONAL STATES AND CAPITALS DAY | September 22

    September 22 focuses on raising awareness and sharing education about all 50 states and their capitals on National States and Capitals Day.

    #NationalStatesandCapitalsDay

    As children, we learn about the 50 states and their capitals in the U.S. But as we get older, we tend to forget those important cities and their role in crafting policy and influencing the economy. And, while everybody knows their own state capital, many do not even remember the capital of the state next door. Today, let’s take the time to remind ourselves how important every state and capital is to our nation.

    Learning about States and Capitals

    Remember those paper maps we were given to learn about states and capitals? Our worksheet had blank states with star indicating where the capital was supposed to be. The agony of naming each state and capital was definitely stressful! We spent time memorizing names, where the state was and naming each capital. Not to mention spelling everything correctly. Some of us were lucky to have a teacher that would play a game to help us remember.

    Typically, we learn about states and capitals between the grades 3-6, starting with the state we live in. From there, we learn our country has 50 states and 50 capitals within each state. All 50 capitals have a unique history, which means there are 50 reasons why a specific city or town was chosen to be a state capital. In addition, we eventually learn how governments operate and the vital roll each state plays in our national government.

    Are state capitals found in the largest cities of each states? No. The first state capitals were built according the where the majority of the population lived in a state, or near a main access hub. For example, North Dakota is home of National Day Calendar. Our state capital is Bismarck, but was once the capital of the Dakota Territory. The Northern Pacific Railroad was built to transfer goods from eastern U.S. to the west, making Bismarck the prime location for state government. Bismarck became the official state capital only after the territory was split into 2 states–North and South Dakota.

    Huh?

    • The letter Q is the only letter NOT found in any of the state names
    • Sweet Home, Alabama is a real place.
    • It’s illegal to bury people in San Francisco, California.
    • New Jersey has a volcano.
    • South Carolina has a place called Monkey Island, that has over 4,000 rhesus monkeys.
    • The state bird for Wisconsin is a plastic flamingo.
    • There are more chickens in Delaware than there are people.
    • The Empire State Building in New York has it’s own zip code.

    State Capitals in Small Cities

    • Juneau, Alaska, population est. 32,300.
    • Dover, Delaware, population est. 39,400.
    • Frankfort, Kentucky, population est. 28,600.
    • Augusta, Maine, population est. 18,900.
    • Annapolis, Maryland, population est. 40,800.
    • Jefferson City, Missouri, population est. 43,230.
    • Helena, Montana, population est. 32,100.
    • Concord, New Hampshire, population est. 4,000.
    • Pierre, South Dakota, population est. 14,100.
    • Montpelier, Vermont, population est. 8,100.

    LEARN YOUR STATES AND CAPITALS

    • Divide learning about states into regions to learn each region before moving on to the next.
    • Check out a book from the library each week on a specific state to learn facts. Return the book and pick another state until all states have been covered.
    • Learn fun facts about states. What famous people are from there? What kind of tourist attractions might be fun to visit?
    • Fix a puzzle with all 50 states and capitals.
    • Draw a map of the United States with the states and fill in the capitals, too.
    • Use Dick & Jane Educational Snacks to help your kids learn about states and capitals.
    • Tag your videos learning states and capitals on social media #NationalStatesandCapitalsDay.

    BEHIND NATIONAL STATES AND CAPITALS DAY

    Dick & Jane Educational Snacks receives credit for the idea to celebrate National States and Capitals Day on September 22. Not only does it raise awareness about the importance of knowing all 50 states and capitals, it reminds people to have fun while learning.

    Owners Dick & Jane (yes, those are their real names), have a passion for education. With a mission to bring a fun way for kids to enjoy learning, they set out to help kids enjoy learning through creating a business of healthy snacks that also serve as learning tools. Primarily geared for students K-8, their snacks can be used as a teaching tool to learn about:

    If you would like more information about Dick & Jane Educational Snacks, please contact:

    Alisha Beasley
    Business Development Manager
    Alisha@EducationalSnacks.us
    248-519-2418

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    Amy

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  • NEW DAY PROCLAMATION | NATIONAL MOVIE NIGHT – Second Friday in June

    National Movie Night - Second Friday in June

    NATIONAL MOVIE NIGHT

    Pop some popcorn, grab a blanket and your favorite buddy, put away the cell phones and tablets, and then queue up a string of movies for a fun night of entertainment. National Movie Night on the second Friday in June encourages us to start (or restart) a tradition of movie nights with friends and family.

    Movies have been bringing people together for over 100 years. The stars, the stories entertain us, connect us and help us create memories. As technology evolves, so does how we enjoy our movie nights. From the theater to reel-to-reel home movies, the VCR, DVD, and streaming, we’ve been enjoying movies on big and small screens. Drive-in movies invited us to enjoy films from the comfort of our cars. Today, our video library is as large as we want it to be thanks to streaming services. We can even enjoy movies in our own backyards projected onto screens under the stars.

    Can you smell the popcorn popping? Start your tradition with friends and family on National Movie Night with new and classic movies at the theatre or in your homes.

    HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalMovieNight

    What movie will you watch and who will you invite for National Movie Night? There are so many ways to start a movie tradition:

    • Make a movie night bucket list.
    • Share your favorite movie quotes.
    • Create a group with people who love movies. Plan to celebrate with a night out at the movie theatre.
    • Host a movie night in with the family. Pick a film the whole family will enjoy.
    • Invite friends and family for a movie night BBQ. Hang a sheet or screen to project the movie onto. Wait for it to get dark and then let the entertainment begin.
    • Load up the car and head to the nearest drive-in movie theatre.
    • Create a buffet of your favorite movie snacks and beverages for everyone to enjoy.
    • Ask everyone to write a review and deliver it in their best critic voice.
    • Invite everyone to dress in their red-carpet best for movie premieres and go to the movies in style.

    Don’t forget to share your movie night traditions. Use #NationalMovieNight to share your celebration on social media and follow @movienightjournal. Sit back, hit play, and enjoy the show!

    NATIONAL MOVIE NIGHT HISTORY

    Movie Night LogoJennifer and Jayda Borget, a mother-daughter duo fluent in movie quotes and authors of the Family Movie Night Journal, founded National Movie Night to create an opportunity to bring new and old movie night traditions to life. Be prepared to laugh, cry or cringe, but most importantly, to make memories! Need a list of suggestions for National Movie Night? This list at movienightjournal.com will get you started.

    The Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed the first National Movie Night in 2022 to be observed the second Friday in June and every year thereafter.

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    Doug

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  • 11 BEST BIEROCKS ACROSS KANSAS

    11 BEST BIEROCKS ACROSS KANSAS

    When you’re hungry the first thing to come to mind probably isn’t the word “bierock.” It doesn’t even sound like food. But it is. A cross between a sandwich and a hand pie, this tasty Eastern European stuffed roll is a Kansas staple. It’s made with ground beef, cabbage, and onions stuffed inside a yeast roll. An ethnic group known as the Volga Germans settled along the Volga River in western Russia and began immigrating to North and South America around 1875. Many of them settled in Kansas, and they brought with them the bierock. Whether you live in Kansas, are visiting, or just passing through, you’ll want to try these 11 Best Bierocks Across Kansas.

    1. Friendship House – Wamego

    On your way through the Land of Oz and the Oz Museum, stop in on a Saturday at the Friendship House in Wamego for their made-from-scratch and made fresh bierocks and soup.

    2. Becky’s Bierocks – St. Francis

    Fuel up on Becky’s Bierocks in St. Francis before heading out to the Arikaree Breaks. Drive along the public roads and explore the rugged territory of ravines and loess. The bakery offers three kinds of bierocks by the dozen. So, order ahead and for a crowd.

    3. M&M Bierock – Wichita

    Once known as the Bierock Kitchen, this little drive-thru restaurant harkens back to the days of Big Boy. Re-opened in 2007 by Mary Moran, the restaurant offers three kinds of bierocks including a ham and cheese version.

    4. Want Bierock – Wichita

    When bierock is in the name of the restaurant, you expect to see some specialty bierocks. And Want Bierock offers exactly that! Along with their piping hot coffee and espressos, they offer a breakfast bierock stuffed with potatoes, sausage, and sharp cheddar cheese. They also offer beef, chicken, and pork bierocks.

    5. Prost – Wichita

    For a complete German gastro experience, visit Prost. Spatzle, sauerkraut, pretzels, schnitzels and of course, a classic bierock. Enjoy the meal with choice German biers and wine.

    6. Gella’s (lbbrewing.com) -Hays

    Hays and Wichita seem to be bierock havens. Gella’s offers an eclectic mix of menu items including the Smothered Bierock. The diner is set inside LB Brewing and offers other German side dishes, including unique grebble.

    7. Augustine’s Bakery – Hays

    Besides offering a variety of cakes, pies, and rolls, Augustine’s Bakery also offers several German favorites including kuchen, spitzbuben, and of course, bierocks.

    8. Runza – St. Lawrence

    Bierocks are also known as runzas in some parts of the Midwest. At Runza, the menu offers nine different bierock/runza sandwiches plus miniture runzas. The business began in 1949 and has since grown into a franchise with several locations across Nebraska, Kansas, Colorado, and Iowa.

    9. CB Baked Goods – Marion

    Offering traditional bierocks as part of their menu, CB Baked Goods also offers one of its own creations called a bolso. After spending an afternoon at the Marion Reservoir, a bierock from CB Baked Goods will hit the spot!

    10. Amanda’s – Abilene

    While in Abilene, visit the Dwight D. Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum and then stop by Amanda’s Bakery & Bistro to fuel up on delicious soup, sandwiches, and salads. And don’t forget to order a classic bierock.

    11. Bierocks Babe – Andover

    If you’re looking for a vegan-friendly bierock, then head to Andover, KS. Bierocks Babe offers both a traditional and vegan bierock. And don’t forget to order baklava, too.

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

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    Michele

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  • TOP 5 PLACES TO SLEEP IN PUBLIC

    TOP 5 PLACES TO SLEEP IN PUBLIC

    We’ve all done it at some point in our lives. Raise your hand if you’re thinking, “Not me,” and I’ll prove you wrong. Before the age of one, all we do is sleep in public. See. What did I tell you? Now that we have that out of the way let’s address some of the Top 5 Places to Sleep in Public.

    5. Under a tree in a park

    On a beautiful day after a satisfying picnic, it’s nearly impossible to resist the urge to take a nap. Our bellies are full. The sun warms faces. The serotonin-induced combination makes being a little drowsy unavoidable. So, find some shade and put your hands behind your head for a well-deserved snooze.

    4. The mall in the middle of the workweek

    Not many of us end up in the mall during the workweek. But if you’re retired, and you and the spouse do everything together, you might find a comfy seat to wait out a shopping spree.

    3. Reference aisle of the library

    Late nights of studying or doing research combined with partying or caring for family add up. The quiet, temperature-controlled reference library offers soft light and very few interruptions. Curl up with an ergonomically appropriate book to prop your head up on, and you’ll show the world how to burn the candle at both ends successfully.

    2. Last pew in church during services

    If you didn’t find time to use the reference library, this is what will happen. When your usually inspiring and eloquent pastor becomes long-winded and you’ve had a long week and a late night, nodding off in church is inevitable. Of course, if you’re under the age of 5, this is seen as cute.

    1. A theater showing old silent movies or a documentary on space

    While the stories might be mesmerizing, we all know that we sleep better when the air is cool, and the room is dark and quiet. So, use your popcorn bag as a pillow and try not to snore. You might disturb the other movie-goers.

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

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    Michele

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