Air-Conditioning Appreciation Days – The arrival of summer’s sticky, steamy weather is a reminder that July 3 through August 15 is designated “Air Conditioning Appreciation Days,” when people take action to combat the Dog Days of Summer. It serves as a reminder for people to give cooling equipment the necessary checks and repairs before scorching days arrive in earnest.
National Cellphone Courtesy Month - July is National Cellphone Courtesy Month – an event founded in 2002 with the intent to encourage the increasingly unmindful corps of cellphone users to be more respectful of their surroundings by using some simple cellphone etiquette principles.
Dog Days of Summer – “Dog Days” are the hottest, most sultry days of summer. In the Northern Hemisphere, the dog days of summer are most commonly experienced in the months of July and August, which typically observe the warmest summer temperatures. In the Southern Hemisphere, they occur in January and February, in the midst of the austral summer. The term “dog days” refer to the dog star, Sirius, and its position in the sky. To the ancient Greeks and Romans, the “dog days” occurred around the day when Sirius appeared to rise just before the sun, in late July. They referred to these days as the hottest time of the year, a period that could bring fever, or even catastrophe.
This stretch of hot weather owes itself to the tilt of the Earth’s axis, and not any extra help on the part of Sirius. During summer in the Northern Hemisphere, the tilt of the Earth causes the sun’s rays to hit at a more direct angle, and for a longer period of time throughout the day. This means longer, hotter days. The Earth is not actually closer to the sun during this time. But this particular tilt is what helps cause those lazy, hazy days of late summer.
Herbal/Prescription Interactive Awareness Month – As many as 70% of patients taking alternative medications do not disclose this information to their doctors. Although readily available over-the-counter, many herbals can have serious interactions with other medications and products. It is imperative that health care providers as well as patients become aware of the interactions of these products and that herbal-use habits become a part of the patient’s documented history and treatment plan.
National Blueberry Month – What is so special about them? Well, to begin with, these berries are grown throughout a good percentage of the United States. Over 90% of all of the blueberries in the world are produced in our country, in thirty-five states. And the nutritional value of blueberries cannot be beat by any other fruit or vegetable. Blueberries are full of antioxidants, which have been scientifically proven to help reduce the risk of certain cancers and heart disease. They are also excellent sources of vitamins A and C, as well as potassium, folic acid, and fiber. Plus, they are low in calories-one cup of berries is only about 80 calories. And, blueberries are virtually fat-free, cholesterol-free, and sodium-free!
National Deli Salad Month – While National Deli Salad Month can be the time to enjoy one’s favorite variety of salad served at the deli counter, its initiative is actually larger. Deli salad manufacturers and other food retailers can join in the fight against hunger by donating surplus product to local food banks. In addition, the RFA is partnering with Feeding America to address the problem of hunger in the nation.
National Doghouse Repairs Month – Originally started by Heidi Richards Mooney as a way to foster personal relationships and “stay out of the doghouse,” the event has evolved. While it can still be a time to reflect upon interaction with close friends and family, it is also a great time to ensure that canines are getting the proper shelter and care they need — especially if they spend significant time outdoors.
National Grilling Month – Grilling is one of the more popular cooking methods, with grilling fans firing up open flames throughout the month … and year. National Grilling Month is a key time to introduce people to how to cook food outdoors safely, grilling tips and techniques, as well as how to update grilling equipment for a new season of delicious foods.
National Horseradish Month – Horseradish is a distinctive flavor that can add heat and diversity to cooking. The horseradish root is harvested in the spring and fall and sold in 1200 pound pallets to processors who grate the root releasing the volatile oils that distinguish horseradish from all other flavors. The ground horseradish is then mixed with distilled vinegar to stabilize the “heat.” This basic formula, which varies from processor to processor, may also contain spices or other ingredients – salt, sugar, cream or vegetable oil. But, generally speaking, horseradish and vinegar are the primary constituents in the basic prepared horseradish on the market today.
In the United States, an estimated 24 million pounds of horseradish roots are ground and processed annually to produce approximately 6 million gallons of prepared horseradish. Embrace the flavor of horseradish this month with mouthwatering recipes and other usage ideas.
National Hot Dog Month – July is National Hot Dog Month, and according to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council, Americans will be consuming the infamous little red tubes of “meat” in record numbers this summer. The Council estimates that over seven billion hot dogs will be eaten by Americans between Memorial Day and Labor Day. During the July 4th weekend alone (the biggest hot-dog holiday of the year), 155 million will be downed. Every year, Americans eat an average of 60 hot dogs each. They are clearly one of the country’s most loved, but most misunderstood, comfort foods.
National Ice Cream Month – National Ice Cream Month is held in each year in July in the United States. Ronald Reagan designated July as National Ice Cream Month in 1984. He also named the third Sunday in July as National Ice Cream Day. Reagan recognized the popularity of ice cream in the United States (90% of the nation’s population consumes ice cream) and stated that these two events should be observed with “appropriate ceremonies and activities.”
National Lost Pet Prevention Month – According to the National Council of Pet Population Study and Policy and the National Humane Society, a family pet is lost every two seconds in North America. The organizations also report that more than 10 million pets are lost each year and one out of three pets will be lost during its lifetime. However, only one in 10 pets is found. This holiday was created to help educate pet parents about the steps they can take to ensure their pets safely return home if they get lost. July was chosen because it’s historically a prime time for lost pets who are frightened off by fireworks and large summer thunderstorms.
National Make a Difference to Children Month – National Make a Difference to Children Month reminds the public of the many ways adults can make a positive difference to children. Create opportunities for kids during this midsummer month when most children are not in school by doing three things:
