SERIOUSLY?

The Gulf of Mexico has been the “Gulf of Mexico” since the 1550s. However, as it is an official Presidential Proclamation bordering on absurdity, we must cover it.

A Presidential Ode to the "Gulf of America"

Behold! The ninth of February, twenty-twenty-five,
A day so monumental, the pelicans high-five.
No matter if since 1550 it was “Gulf of Mexico” called,
With one grand scratch of my pen, all that is forestalled!

I signed that faithful order, fueling national pride,
Turning centuries of history on its satirical side.
“Restore American greatness!” – my rallying cry,
We’ll just rename this ocean nook—who needs to ask why?

From proud Texas waves to Florida’s sandy spa,
This is now the Gulf of America—exclámalo, “Hurrah!”
Pay no heed to fish or charts older than our states,
They’ll catch up soon enough, thanks to these new dictates.

Today I fly on Air Force One to see this gem,
A testament to power—just ask my black Sharpie pen.
Let us celebrate ahistorically with pomp and parades,
And pretend the last 475 years were but passing charades.

So rejoice, America—rewrite that watery tale!
Wave banners, start ceremonies, let the party horns wail.
As I proclaim Gulf of America Day with zeal,
The world sighs, awaiting accountability over this blasted beal.”

Africa

Feb

World Aspergillosis Day: February 1

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SHINING A LIGHT ON THE RESPIRATORY INFECTION BOURNE OF FUNGUS

WORLD ASPERGILLOSIS DAY

World Aspergillosis Day started in 2018 under the leadership of the Fungal Infection Trust and the National Aspergillosis Centre in Manchester, England. Their goal is straightforward: to spotlight a lesser-known but potentially life-threatening fungal infection and rally support for research and better treatment options.

Aspergillosis is caused by inhaling microscopic spores of the fungus Aspergillus—commonly found in soil, decaying vegetation, and even household dust. While most healthy individuals can fend off infection, those with weakened immune systems or chronic lung conditions can develop serious complications, including invasive forms that spread to vital organs.

Antifungal medications can help manage or even resolve certain cases, but cures do not exist for all forms, especially if the condition is diagnosed late. World Aspergillosis Day underscores the urgent need for early detection, new therapies, and greater global awareness of a fungus that often lurks in plain sight by uniting healthcare professionals, researchers, patients, and caregivers.

Africa

Feb

Day of Remembrance and Respect for Victims of the Communist Regime (BG)(1945): February 1

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MARKING THE END OF A CONSTITUTIONAL MONARCHY AND THE COMMENCEMENT OF 45 YEARS OF OPPRESSION

BULGARIA'S DAY OF REMEMBRANCE AND RESPECT

FOR THE VICTIMS OF THE COMMUNIST REGIME
Bulgarians gather on February 1 annually to mark the Day of Remembrance and Respect for the Victims of the Communist Regime, a solemn occasion honoring the thousands who were tortured, imprisoned or lost their lives under totalitarian rule between 1944 and 1989.

The date commemorates the events of February 1, 1945. On this date, Bulgaria's euphemistically named People's Court carried out a wave of executions against high-profile politicians, aristocrats, and intellectuals deemed "enemies of the state" by the newly installed communist government and of the more than 200 people executed that day included three regents, 67 members of parliament, cabinet ministers, generals, colonels, teachers, lawyers and bankers. Ultimately, the "court" issued more than 10,000 sentences in 131 trials. A total of 2,600 people received formal death sentences. Thousands of others were murdered without trial or sentence and remain to this day in unmarked graves.

RISE OF COMMUNISM

The communist movement in Bulgaria traced its origins to the early 20th century. Still, it rose to power in 1944, bolstered by the Soviet Union's advance into Eastern Europe near the end of World War II. Once in control, the Bulgarian Communist Party oversaw a repressive system in which political opponents, clergy, and even ordinary citizens were subjected to imprisonment, forced labor, and, in many cases, execution.

The annual Day of Remembrance is significant not only as a tribute to those who perished or suffered under the regime but also as a collective pledge to safeguard democratic ideals.

Public memorials—often held at sites where political prisoners were once detained—form the heart of the observance. Officials and community leaders deliver speeches recalling the stories of those who died, and families of victims lay wreaths or light candles in their memory. In schools and cultural centers, exhibits and presentations help younger generations learn about the dangers of totalitarian ideologies. While somber in tone, the day underscores Bulgaria's commitment to facing its past and ensuring the lessons of that era remain firmly in the country's collective consciousness.

Africa

Jan

Inauguration Day (US): January 20

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THE PEACEFUL TRANSFER OF POWER:

INAUGURATION DAY IN THE UNITED STATES

Every four years, on January 20, the United States pauses to celebrate the peaceful transfer of power during Inauguration Day. This centuries-old tradition underscores the strength of the nation's democracy.

However, in the annals of history, the idea of inauguration and the American system of transferring power from leader to leader was novel and unknown.

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

When George Washington took the oath of office in 1789, the notion of a nation's leader peacefully stepping aside and handing over power to a new administration was still considered a grand political experiment. Most 18th-century governments were monarchies led by hereditary rulers who retained their offices for life or faced forced removal.

A NEW CONCEPT

America's system of regular elections and orderly inaugurations was unprecedented on a large scale for its time. Historians often cite the United States' early presidential transitions as a significant break from centuries of power passed down through bloodlines or was seized by conquest.

The first inauguration, held in New York City on April 30, 1789, set the stage for this experiment in governance. Though Washington was overwhelmingly popular, his assumption of presidential duties and subsequent peaceful departure after two terms gave the new republic a durable example of how leaders could leave office without military intervention or dynastic claims.

EARLY WORLD REACTION

The world watched with a mix of curiosity and skepticism. In the late 18th century, absolute monarchies still held sway in most of Europe, while hereditary rule shaped much of global politics. Many foreign observers doubted that a republic without a monarch could ensure political stability. Newspapers in Europe sometimes ridiculed Americans' "bold" system, and diplomatic envoys wondered how long the United States' constitutional government would hold.

At the same time, a sense of fascination arose among Enlightenment-era thinkers. They saw the American experiment as proof that democratic ideals—espoused by philosophers like John Locke and Montesquieu—could thrive. The orderly nature of the inaugurations and the continuing peaceful transfer of power helped the US gain respect in international circles, even if it sometimes clashed with prevailing norms of hereditary rule.

ENDURING PRECEDENT

Over time, the inauguration solidified its status as a cornerstone of the US political system, symbolizing the resilience and adaptability of American democracy. While peaceful power transfers are not unique in the modern era, the regular, institutionalized process that began with Washington remains one of the earliest and most influential examples, inspiring other nations to adopt similar transitions in their constitutions.

AN EVOLVING CUSTOM

The custom of a presidential inauguration began with George Washington's first swearing-in on April 30, 1789, in New York City. For much of the nation's early history, inaugurations took place on March 4—reflecting the slower pace of travel and communication in the 18th and 19th centuries.

That changed with the ratification of the 20th Amendment in 1933, which moved Inauguration Day to January 20. The shift shortened the "lame-duck" period and allowed a newly elected president to begin governing sooner. Franklin D. Roosevelt, entering his second term, became the first president sworn in on January 20, 1937.

FORMAT OF THE EVENT

Modern Inauguration Day ceremonies are staged on the West Front of the US Capitol, overlooking the National Mall. At noon, the United States Chief Justice administers the oath of office, fulfilling a constitutional requirement. Moments later, the newly sworn president delivers an inaugural address, often viewed by millions worldwide.

Following the swearing-in and address, the new president and vice president typically attend a congressional luncheon in the Capitol, where congressional leaders from both parties offer brief remarks. A traditional inaugural parade proceeds along Pennsylvania Avenue to the White House in the afternoon. Various local groups, military units and marching bands participate in the festivities.

In the evening, inaugural balls or galas—some official, others unofficial—serve as a celebratory capstone to the day's events. These gatherings allow supporters, dignitaries and the new administration to mark the transition in a more festive setting.

MEMORABLE ADDRESSES

Several presidents have delivered inaugural addresses that profoundly shaped the nation's political discourse:

— ABRAHAM LINCOLN'S second inaugural address (1865) is remembered for its conciliatory tone toward the South and its famous line, "With malice toward none; with charity for all," as the Civil War drew to a close.

— FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT'S first inaugural (1933) occurred amid the Great Depression. His reassurance that "the only thing we have to fear is fear itself" galvanized public confidence and signaled sweeping New Deal reforms.

— JOHN F. KENNEDY'S 1961 address called on Americans to "ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country," capturing the spirit of a new generation eager to meet Cold War challenges.

— RONALD REAGAN, in 1981, emphasized a smaller federal government and championed optimism, reflecting the conservative shift of that era.

— BARACK OBAMA'S 2009 address, the first by an African American president, highlighted hope, unity and perseverance amid economic upheaval and wartime challenges.

LARGEST INAUGURAL CROWD

Barack Obama's first inauguration in 2009 drew what is widely regarded as the largest crowd ever to witness a US presidential swearing-in. Estimates put attendance at around 1.8 million people, packing the National Mall from the steps of the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial.

SHORTEST PRESIDENCY

William Henry Harrison holds the sorrowful record of the nation's shortest presidency. Sworn in on March 4, 1841, Harrison delivered a lengthy inaugural address in frigid weather. He fell ill soon after and died just 31 days into his term, on April 4, 1841.

CONCLUSION

Today, the pomp and ceremony of Inauguration Day remain a point of national pride and reflection, underscoring the changing priorities of each new administration and the enduring principles enshrined in the Constitution.

The United States government runs on three groups of equal power: the Executive Branch, which includes the president; the Judicial Branch with the Supreme Court; and the Congress, featuring the House of Representatives and the Senate. It is important to note that regardless of the assertions of a president sworn in, a president's executive orders cannot undo a law or a Supreme Court ruling. These executive orders cannot change the Constitution. If an inaugurated president attempts to do any of these actions, that person is foregoing democracy and claiming the mantle of a dictator. It is the job of the Congress and Supreme Court to hold that person in check.

Africa

Jan

Inauguration Day (US): January 20

01:20 AM | -

THE PEACEFUL TRANSFER OF POWER:

INAUGURATION DAY IN THE UNITED STATES

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND

A NEW CONCEPT

EARLY WORLD REACTION

ENDURING PRECEDENT

AN EVOLVING CUSTOM

FORMAT OF THE EVENT

MEMORABLE ADDRESSES

LARGEST INAUGURAL CROWD

SHORTEST PRESIDENCY

CONCLUSION

Africa

Sep

Bi Visibility Day: September 23

02:20 AM | -

Created by Wendy Curry, Michael Page, and Gigi Raven Wilbur, Bi Visibility Day encourages people bisexual people to celebrate their sexuality with the world. Bisexuals are sexually attracted to both sexes. In recent years this event has expanded to include biromantics, people whose romantic orientation connects with both sexes. This event first ran in 1999.

Africa

Sep

Checkers/Dog in Politics Day (1952): September 23

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Checkers or Dog in Politics Day commemorates the 'Checkers Speech' by Vice Presidential candidate Richard Nixon on September 23, 1953. The Checkers Speech garnered the largest television audience then, with about 60 million Americans watching it, leading to a public outpouring of support. Richard Nixon was accused of using his campaign contributions for his personal use. Nixon went to Los Angeles to defend himself and delivered a speech to the public for half an hour. At the end of his speech, he stated that he intended to keep only one gift, a dog named Checkers; now you know how Checkers Day got its name. Nixon would become the President of the United States from January 20, 1969 – August 9, 1974.

Africa

Sep

Eye Health Week, Ntl.(UK): September 22-28 (est)

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NATIONAL EYE HEALTH WEEK: PROMOTING VISION CARE IN THE THE UK Each September, the United Kingdom observes National Eye Health Week, a dedicated effort to raise awareness about the importance of eye health and the impact of vision issues on individuals' lives. This week-long campaign organized by Eye Health UK aims to educate the public on maintaining good eye health and preventing vision loss through regular check-ups and healthy lifestyle choices. The primary goal of National Eye Health Week is to highlight the significance of regular eye examinations and proactive eye care. The campaign seeks to inform the public about the causes of vision impairment, encourage preventive measures, and promote the benefits of early detection and treatment of eye conditions. IMPACT OF SIGHT ISSUES ON YOUR LIFESTYLE Vision problems can profoundly affect a person's life, influencing their physical, emotional, and social well-being. Key impacts include: Reduced Quality of Life—Vision impairment can limit daily activities, such as reading, driving, and using electronic devices, reducing overall independence and quality of life. Emotional Distress—Sight issues can lead to feelings of frustration, anxiety, and depression, mainly if they limit a person's ability to engage in previously enjoyed activities. Increased Risk of Accidents—Poor vision can increase the risk of falls and other accidents, especially in older adults. Social Isolation—Vision impairment can challenge social interactions, potentially leading to isolation and loneliness. WARNING SIGNS OF VISION PROBLEMS Recognizing the warning signs of vision issues is crucial for timely intervention. Common signs include: Blurry Vision—Difficulty seeing objects clearly up close or at a distance. Frequent Headaches—Persistent headaches, often caused by eye strain or uncorrected vision problems. Difficulty Reading—Trouble focusing on text, requiring more light or magnification to read. Squinting—Frequently squinting to see better, especially in bright light or when focusing on distant objects. Eye Pain or Discomfort—Persistent eye pain, redness, or discomfort. Double Vision—Seeing two images of a single object. PROTECTING YOUR VISION Individuals can take several steps to protect their vision and maintain good eye health: Regular Eye Examinations: Schedule comprehensive eye exams with an optometrist or ophthalmologist at least every two years or more frequently if recommended. Healthy Diet: Consume a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, mainly those beneficial for eye health, such as vitamins A, C, E, and omega-3 fatty acids. Protective Eyewear: Wear sunglasses with UV protection to shield eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays, and use protective eyewear during activities that pose a risk of eye injury. Limit Screen Time: Reduce prolonged exposure to screens, take regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds), and ensure proper lighting to minimize eye strain. Quit Smoking: Avoid smoking, as it increases the risk of developing age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, and other eye diseases. National Eye Health Week underscores the importance of proactive eye care and regular check-ups in maintaining good vision and overall health. The campaign aims to empower individuals to take charge of their eye health and prevent vision impairment by raising awareness and providing valuable information. Through collective efforts and a commitment to eye care, the UK can ensure a future where everyone can enjoy a healthy vision.

Africa

Sep

Family Week (PH): September 22-28 (est)

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FAMILY WEEK IN THE PHILIPPINES: THE CORE OF FILIPINO CULTURE Each September, the Philippines celebrates Family Week, a national observance dedicated to strengthening family bonds and highlighting the vital role of families in Filipino society. This week-long event, initiated by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and supported by various government agencies, non-government organizations, and community groups, underscores the importance of family unity and welfare. Family Week's primary goal is to promote family solidarity, love, and mutual support, which are integral to Filipino culture. The campaign seeks to raise awareness about Filipino families' issues, provide resources and support for family development, and encourage activities that foster strong family relationships. The week-long celebration includes various events and programs designed to bring families closer together and reinforce the significance of familial connections. FAMILY AND FILIPINO CULTURE Family is the cornerstone of Filipino culture, deeply embedded in the nation's social fabric. The importance of family in Filipino culture is reflected in several aspects: Interdependence—Filipino families often exhibit strong interdependence, with extended family members playing significant roles in each other's lives. This network of support provides emotional, financial, and social stability. Respect for Elders—Filipino family values include a deep respect for elders. The elderly are often cared for within the family home, and their wisdom and guidance are highly regarded. Shared Responsibilities—Family responsibilities are shared among members, fostering a sense of unity and cooperation. These include caring for younger siblings, contributing to household chores, and supporting the family's economic needs. Celebrations and Traditions—Family gatherings, religious observances, and cultural traditions are central to Filipino life, reinforcing family bonds and creating a sense of belonging. Family Week in the Philippines serves as a vital reminder of families' foundational role in the nation's cultural and social landscape. By promoting family values and offering support to strengthen family units, the observance contributes to the well-being and resilience of Filipino society. It's a testament to the unity and collaboration in Filipino society that through collective efforts from government agencies, organizations, and communities, Family Week aims to ensure that the values of love, unity, and mutual support continue to thrive in Filipino families.

Africa

Sep

Innergize Day: September 23

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When was the last time you took time out for yourself? That is what National Innergize Day seeks to do. Today is your license to focus on your needs, relaxation, and your way of living. Enjoy!

Africa

Sep

Jewish Year 5786 (J): September 23 - September 11, 2026

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ABOUT THE HEBREW CALENDAR The Jewish Year 5786 corresponds to 2025 and 2026 in the Gregorian calendar. The Hebrew calendar marks day one as the seventh day of the creation story from the book of Genesis. Hebrew scholars determined year one by adding the ages of all those mentioned in the Torah and going backward. The Hebrew calendar is a lunisolar calendar consisting of 12 months, with a leap year adding a 13th month. Each month has its unique significance and religious observances. Here's a month-by-month summary, typically beginning in September and ending in September or October each year. MONTH OF TISHREI Rosh Hashanah—Jewish New Year, marked by prayer, reflection, and the shofar sounding. Yom Kippur—Day of Atonement, the year's holiest day, focused on fasting and repentance. Sukkot—Feast of Tabernacles, commemorating the Israelites' journey in the desert. Shemini Atzeret—Eighth day of Sukkot, a separate festival day. Simchat Torah—Celebration of the completion and restarting of the Torah reading cycle. MONTH OF CHESHVAN Often referred to as Mar-Cheshvan (bitter Cheshvan) due to the lack of major holidays. It is a month for reflection and settling into the new year. MONTH OF KISLEV Hanukkah—Festival of Lights, celebrating the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of the oil lasting eight days. MONTH OF TEVET Tenth of Tevet—A minor fast day commemorating the siege of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar II. MONTH OF SHEVAT Tu Bishvat—New Year for Trees, often celebrated by planting trees and eating fruits. MONTH OF ADAR Purim—Celebrates the deliverance of the Jewish people from a plot to destroy them, as recounted in the Book of Esther. (In a leap year, Adar is split into Adar I and Adar II, with Purim celebrated in Adar II.) MONTH OF NISAN Passover (Pesach)—Commemorates the Exodus from Egypt and the liberation of the Israelites from slavery. Counting of the Omer—Begins on the second night of Passover and continues for 49 days until Shavuot. MONTH OF IYAR Lag B'Omer—Celebrates the end of a plague among the students of Rabbi Akiva and the death anniversary of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai. MONTH OF SIVAN Shavuot—Feast of Weeks, celebrating the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. MONTH OF TAMMUZ Seventeenth of Tammuz—A minor fast day marking the breach of the walls of Jerusalem before the destruction of the Second Temple. MONTH OF AV Tisha B'Av—A significant fast day commemorating the destruction of the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem and other tragedies in Jewish history. MONTH OF ELUL The last month of the Hebrew calendar is one of introspection and preparation for the High Holy Days, with the shofar sounding each day (except Shabbat).

Africa

Sep

National Day, (SA)(1932): September 23

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National Day in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia marks the anniversary of September 23, 1932, when all the tribes united under one ruler, Ibn Saud. It represented the third time the tribes attempted to establish an independent nation, which succeeded this time. National Day is a national holiday.

Africa

Sep

Neptune Day (1846): September 23

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On September 23, 1846, German astronomer Johann Gottfried Galle of the Berlin Observatory discovered the 8th planet in our solar system, Neptune. He found it using mathematic equations from a predictive model developed by Urban Le Verrier. Blue in color, the planet is made of ice and has 14 moons orbiting it. Neptune requires 165 years to orbit the sun and is named after Neptune, the Roman god of the sea.

Africa

Sep

Rabi al-Thani (M): September 23 - October 22

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Rabi al-Thani is the fourth month in the Islamic religious calendar and includes the observances of: 8th of Rabī' al-Thānī—birth of 12th Imām, Ḥasan al-‘Askarī 10th of Rabī’ al-Thānī—death of Fātimah al-Ma‘sūmah 12th of Rabī’ al-Thānī—the death of Hazrat Sheikh Abdul Qadir Gilani (R.A), the Sufi sheik considered by the sect as the saint of saints.

Africa

Sep

Seed Gathering Seasons (UK): September 23-October 23

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Seed Gathering Seasons in the United Kingdom falls on the first week of September and ends a month after that. Sponsored by The Tree Council, Seed Gathering Seasons encourages people to gather seeds, fruits, and nuts and then grow the trees for future generations beginning at the autumnal equinox.

Africa