Doesn’t it seem like every day on the calendar has been proclaimed the National Day of “Something”? For instance, April 27th is National Hairball Awareness Day. Never miss another important observance by consulting Chase’s Calendar of Events. Published annually, Chase’s is the ultimate go-to-guide for holidays, anniversaries, special events, festivals, federal and state observances, astronomical phenomena, and other special days, weeks, and months.
Here’s a sampling of the special observances occurring in August, along with their descriptions from Chase’s:
National Win With Civility Month (August 1-31)
When we are civil to each other, we confirm our worth and acknowledge the worth of others. We can move in and out of all levels of society confident that we are always doing the “right thing.” We gain recognition for civility, and we secure the respect of our fellow human beings.
National Panini Month (August 1-31)
In August, Sargento salutes the panini, a sandwich made with a small loaf of bread, typically ciabatta, that is usually served hot or grilled. Known for its versatility, delicious flavors and variety of creative ingredients, the panini is a perfect catalyst to encourage the use of the many types of natural cheeses.
Emancipation of 500: Anniversary (August 1, 1791)
On August 1, 1791, Virginia planter, Robert Carter III, filed a deed of emancipation for his 500 slaves. One of the wealthiest men in the state, Carter owned 60,000 acres over 18 plantations. The deed included the following words: “I have for some time past been convinced that to retain them in Slavery is contrary to the true principles of Religion and Justice and therefore it is my duty to manumit them.” It is believed this was the largest act of emancipation in US history and predated the Emancipation Proclamation by over 70 years.
Sturgeon Moon (August 1)
So called by Native American tribes of New England and the Great Lakes because at this time of year the sturgeon was most abundant.
“The Rush Limbaugh Show” National Radio Premiere: Anniversary (August 1, 1988)
Conservative political commentator and radio personality, Rush Limbaugh, began his nationally syndicated show on this date with 56 stations. It quickly became the nation’s top-rated show and rejuvenated the talk radio format. Today, more than 645 stations carry the program to an estimated 20 million listeners.
Martha (Calamity Jane) Burk: Death Anniversary (August 1, 1903)
Known as a frontierswoman and companion to Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane Burk was born Martha Jane Canary at Princeton, MO, in May 1852. She went to the Black Hills of South Dakota as a scout for a geologic expedition in 1875. Several opposing traditions account for her nickname, one springing from her kindness to people who were less fortunate, while another attributes it to the harsh warnings she would give men who offended her.
Lughnasadh (August 1)
(Also called August Eve, Lammas Eve, Lady Day Eve, and Feast of Bread)
One of the “Greater Sabbats” during the Wiccan year, Lughnasadh marks the first harvest.
You can find Chase’s Calendar of Events in the Ready Reference Collection, call number GT4803 .C48 2012.