Many schools and universities hold graduation ceremonies (also known as commencement ceremonies) annually, beginning in the month of June. Donning a cap – the square mortarboard with tassel, derived from 16th century Scottish headgear – and a gown – very fashionable in late medieval Europe – isn’t what it’s all about when it comes to … Read more
June is Adopt a Shelter Cat Month in the United States. Adopting a cat (or dog) from your local shelter or rescue group will not only save a life, but provide you with the companionship and love only a pet can give. According to the American Humane Society, every year during “kitten season” – that … Read more
Annually on June 14th, Americans celebrate Flag Day – date established by President Woodrow Wilson in 1916, though not as an official federal holiday – which commemorates the adoption of the U.S. flag by the Second Continental Congress in 1777. “We take the stars from heaven, the red from our mother country, separating it by white … Read more
Since July 19, 1910, when the state of Washington’s governor proclaimed the first Father’s Day in the United States – it would finally become a national federal holiday under President Richard Nixon in 1972 – Americans have celebrated a special day just for Dads. “It is not flesh and blood but the heart which makes … Read more
In the U.S., many children and teens attend a recreational and/or educational summer camp where they enjoy a variety of activities from gymnastics to horseback riding, computers, music, drama, sports, and also just general fun. Camps also exist for children suffering from cancer or other illnesses, and for disabled children. “A lot of parents pack … Read more
On Memorial Day in the U.S., observed on the fourth Monday in May, we celebrate and remember America’s fallen heroes, and pay tribute to the men and women of the Armed Forces who have given all for their country. In the spirit of honoring this national day of tribute, we bring you 3 Heroes You Should … Read more
In the United States, Armed Forces Day is observed annually on the third Saturday in May. The holiday involves all branches of the U.S. military – Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard, and was established as a day for citizens to honor the men and women who give their all in support of … Read more
In the United States, Mother’s Day has been celebrated on the second Sunday in May (in 2012, this date falls on May 12th) since it was made an official U.S. holiday in 1914. “Being a full-time mother is one of the highest salaried jobs… since the payment is pure love.” —–Mildred B. Vermont Everybody’s mother … Read more
To understand the who, what, and why of Nurses Day on May 6th in the U.S. (Nurses Week is held annually May 6-12), we need to start with Florence Nightingale. “It may seem a strange principle to enunciate as the very first requirement in a hospital that it should do the sick no harm.” —–Florence … Read more
It’s mid-April, and we all know what that means, don’t we? “I’m proud to be paying taxes in the United States. The only thing is, I could be just as proud for half the money.” —–Arthur Godfrey For Americans, Tax Day isn’t exactly a holiday. It falls annually on April 15, the deadline to file … Read more