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NATIONAL READ A BOOK DAY

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National Read A Book Day is observed annually on September 6th.  On August 9th, we all celebrated National Book Lovers Day.  While these bookish days may seem similar, National Read a Book Day invites us ALL to grab a book we might enjoy and spend the day reading.  

Don’t keep it to yourself.  Share the experience!  Read aloud either to children or to grandparents.  Read to your pets or to your stuffed animals and plants.  

Reading improves memory and concentration as well as reduces stress. Older adults who spend time reading show a slower cognitive decline and tend to participate in more mentally stimulating activities over their lifetime.  Books are an inexpensive entertainment, educational tool and time machine too!

A Great way to enjoy reading even more are these:

Featured Books

Little Women by Louisa May Alcott – Set during the Civil War, Little Women follows the life of the March family. Loosely based on Alcott’s life, she cast herself as talented the Jo March. 

David Copperfield by Charles Dickens – David Copperfield tells the story of a young boy’s life as he struggles to become a writer. From an abusive start and many trials, the author relays the memories of his life. 

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling – The 7th book in the Harry Potter series brings Harry, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger back to Hogwarts for a final standoff with Voldemort and his Deatheaters.

Julie of the Wolves by Jean Craighead George – This is the story of nine-year-old Miyax and her transition from an Inuit culture to an American one in San Francisco.

Where the Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls – Loved by generations, this classic story tells of the bond between a boy and his dog in the Ozarks. 

The Three Muskateers by Alexander Dumas When young d’Artagnan travels to Paris to join the ranks of the Musketeers, he soon finds himself challenged to three duels with Athos, Porthos and Aramis. However, the foursome is abruptly attacked by the evil Cardinal Richelieu’s guards, and d’Artagnan fights alongside them, proving his skills with a sword and his honour. The three Musketeers enfold d’Artagnan into their ranks, and what follows is a swashbuckling tale full of intrigue, friendship and revenge.

HOW TO OBSERVE #ReadABookDay

Sit back, relax and read a book. Whether you prefer to escape into the world of fiction or learn something new, celebrate with your favorite books. Visit the library or the local book store. Pick up a new book or read an old favorite. Explore the past in history books and memoirs or dive into the mean of terrific poetry. Read aloud to a child or give them a new book. Share the stories you’re reading using #ReadABookDay to post on social media.

If you need any suggestions or just looking for something new these are some of my favorite authors.

Julia Quinn
Diana Galbaldon
Suzanne Brockmann
Sherrilyn McQueen (a.k.a  Kenyon)
Lisa Kleypas
J.M. Madden
Suzanne Enoch

James Patterson
Patricia Cornwell
David Balducci
Janet Evanovich

Steven King
John Grisham
Dean Koontz
J D Robb
Michael Connelly
Agatha Christie
Tolkien
George R. R. Martin
Harper Lee

Labor Day

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Labor Day on first Monday of every September recognizes the men and women who labor to build this country. Through a time-honored tradition with roots in the coordinated efforts of the labor movement of the 1800s, we salute the American workforce.

Since the founding of the United States, the country has relied on its workforce for its infrastructure. From its streets and buildings to its transportation and security, the nation runs on labor. The labor of what we create, build and harvest fuels our education and inspires our dreams. 

This National Day also signals the official end of summer. Those who work hard, need time to play, too. With the school year starting and summer winding down, the long weekend beckons. They use the extra day earned to spend with families and catch some R&R. Some will explore cities while others will seek outdoor adventure. No matter where it’s spent, it’s well earned. 

Try our Greek Turkey burgers, No-Fail Fresca Sangria, for your celebration. Try some of our other great recipes here.

So if enjoying a last mini vacation, football game, parade, or barbeque, remember all the hard work the American worker has put into the lives we currently enjoy. Take a moment to remember all those teachers, doctors, road crews, miners, steel and auto industry, manufacturing, blue-collar, white-collar and everything in between that have given to the American economy and our way of life.

HISTORY OF LABOR DAY

On September 5, 1882, Labor Day first honored workers in New York City. The observance later moved to the first Monday in September in 1884. However, the observance wasn’t officially recognized by any government entity until 1885 when a municipal ordinance was passed. Interestingly, Oregon recognized the day in 1887 before New York state’s bill passed. As more states recognized the observance, its popularity grew. Then, in 1894, Congress declared the day to be a national observance. 

HOW TO OBSERVE LABOR DAY

Many families spend Labor Day weekend on vacation. They pack the campgrounds full or explore tourist towns for one last hurrah! As you celebrate this day, consider and appreciate your hard work and how it has added to the well-being and prosperity of our country. If you must see them, be extra nice to those who don’t get the holidays some of us do. Medical, nurses and health care, all first responders, a lot of retail workers and any others who still have to work today.  Use #LaborDay to post on social media.

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NATIONAL MARYLAND DAY

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On August 24, we usher in the 7th state to join the Union with National Maryland Day.  Maryland’s coastal location brings with it a deeply rooted maritime heritage that includes an ocean battle defending the city of Baltimore at Ft. McHenry during the War of 1812. One witness to the action became so inspired, Francis Scott Key penned the words that later became our National Anthem.

The Battle of Baltimore during the War of 1812: The History of the Battle that Inspired the National Anthem Kindle Edition by Charles River Editors  (Author) 
The Battle of Baltimore during the War of 1812: The History of the Battle that Inspired the National Anthem

by Charles River Editors  (Author) 
Chesapeake Bay

Just over 200 years before these traditions flourished, Captian John Smith explored the Chesapeake Bay and the Nanticoke River. He kept a record of his travels, documenting the Native American people. Smith wrote about their cultures, the abundant animal, and plant life. Since this vast watershed is the largest estuary in the United States, the complex ecosystem thrives with diverse plant and wildlife.

Captain John Smith: A Select Edition of His Writings (Published by the Omohundro Institute of Early American History and Culture and the University of North Carolina Press) Kindle Edition by Karen Ordahl Kupperman (Editor) 
Captain John Smith: A Select Edition of His Writings (Published by the Omohundro Institute of Early American History and Culture and the University of North Carolina Press) Kindle Edition

by Karen Ordahl Kupperman (Editor) 


Boardwalk

Spending a weekend or a vacation at Ocean City with friends or family is a highlight of any Maryland trip.  The boardwalk and beaches provide plenty of relaxation, adventure, and fun in the sun. The Eastern Shore offers scenic views, site seeing, peaceful accommodations, festivals and events for everyone.

Civil War History

Head west to Antitiem and Maryland will take you into another era.  Here, the battlefields and Antietam National Cemetery hold a solemn reminder of the bloodiest singled day battle of the Civil War that occurred on September 17, 1862. Five days later, President Lincoln issued a Preliminary Emancipation Proclamation. Although Maryland was a southern state as defined by the Mason-Dixon line, it never seceded from the Union. While many families throughout the war fought on opposing sides, for Maryland families, it was a reoccurring theme.

Industry

Being located close to Washington D.C. makes Maryland ideal for aerospace, defense, and federal cybersecurity jobs. The state’s fishing industry thrives and is the largest producer of blue crabs in the state. The Oldline State is also home to McCormick & Company, Perdue Farms, Lockheed Martin, Black & Decker and Underarmor.

Official Maryland

State Capital – Annapolis
State Nickname – The Old Line State
State Motto – Fatti maschs parole femine
State Bird – Baltimore Oriole
State Flower – Black-eyed Susan
State Folk Dance – Square Dance
State Fish – Rockfish
State Dessert – Smith Island Cake
State Fossil – Ecphora gardnerae
State Tree – White Oak
State Song – Maryland, My Maryland
State Gemstone – Patuxent River Stone
State Insect – Baltimore Checkerspot Butterfly

NOTABLE PEOPLE

Johns Hopkins – Philanthropist – (May 19, 1795 – December 24, 1873)

The Ghosts of Johns Hopkins: The Life and Legacy that Shaped an American City Kindle Edition by Antero Pietila  (Author)
The Ghosts of Johns Hopkins: The Life and Legacy that Shaped an American City Kindle Edition

by Antero Pietila  (Author)

Harriet Tubman – Activist – (1822 – March 10, 1913)

Harriet Tubman: The Road to Freedom Paperback – January 5, 2005 by Catherine Clinton  (Author)
Harriet Tubman: The Road to Freedom Paperback – January 5, 2005

by Catherine Clinton  (Author)

Harriet
Harriet


Frederick Douglass – Journalist – Activist – ( unknown – February 20, 1895)

Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom Kindle Edition by David W. Blight  (Author) 
Frederick Douglass: Prophet of Freedom Kindle Edition

by David W. Blight  (Author) 


American Experience: The Abolitionists
American Experience: The Abolitionists

Upton Sinclair – Author – (September 20, 1878 – November 25, 1968)

Upton Sinclair and the Other American Century Kindle Edition by Kevin Mattson  (Author) 
Upton Sinclair and the Other American Century Kindle Edition

by Kevin Mattson  (Author) 

Babe Ruth – Professional Athlete – (February 6, 1895 – August 16, 1948)

The Big Bam: The Life and Times of Babe Ruth Paperback – May 1, 2007 by Leigh Montville  (Author)
The Big Bam: The Life and Times of Babe Ruth

by Leigh Montville  (Author)
Babe Ruth Story
Babe Ruth Story

Thurgood Marshall – Supreme Court Justice – (July 2, 1908 – January 24, 1993)

Thurgood Marshall: His Speeches, Writings, Arguments, Opinions, and Reminiscences (The Library of Black America series) Kindle Edition by Mark V. Tushnet  (Editor), Randall Kennedy (Foreword) 
Thurgood Marshall: His Speeches, Writings, Arguments, Opinions, and Reminiscences (The Library of Black America series)

by Mark V. Tushnet  (Editor), Randall Kennedy (Foreword) 
Thurgood Marshall: America's First African American Supreme Court Justice
Thurgood Marshall: America’s First African American Supreme Court Justice

Barbara Mikulski – U.S. Representative – (July 20, 1936 – )

Barbara Mikulski
Barbara Mikulski

Mike Roe – Television host – (March 18, 1962 – )

The Way I Heard It Kindle Edition by Mike Rowe  (Author)
The Way I Heard It Kindle Edition

by Mike Rowe  (Author)


Maryland Flavor

Milk
Cream of Crab Soup
Fisher’s popcorn
Stuffed Ham
Crab dip
Berger Cookies
Steamed Crab
Crab Cakes
Thrashers Fries

Marylanders know their crab. It’s a big deal. Crab cakes, crab dip, steamed crab or a good old fashioned crab boil. However, they serve it up, they serve it deliciously and with pride. They know their seafood, but they know their crab. Don’t forget the Old Bay, either.

Follow that with Thrashers Fries and Fisher’s Popcorn from Ocean City’s boardwalk. It’s a required stop.

Fisher's Popcorn Caramel Popcorn, Gluten Free, 5 Simple Ingredients, Handmade, No Preservatives, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Zero Trans Fat, 20oz Tub by Fisher's Popcorn
Fisher’s Popcorn Caramel Popcorn, Gluten Free, 5 Simple Ingredients, Handmade, No Preservatives, No High Fructose Corn Syrup, Zero Trans Fat, 20oz Tub

by Fisher’s Popcorn

Stuffed ham gains a favored place on the table in Maryland. Seasoned cabbage, kale, and onions are stuffed into a boneless ham, boiled and served cold.

For dessert, Marylanders like peach pot pie and the official state dessert, Smith Island Cake. Peach pot pie is similar to a cobbler with a sweet biscuit crust. As August 24th is also Peach Pie Day, it could be that this is how the tradition got started. The eight layers of the Smith Island Cake features fudge and moist yellow cake.

But, let’s remember crabs, in whole or part, are outstanding in Maryland.

Hidden Treasures

National Capital Radio & Television Museum – Bowie

John Paul Jones’ Crypt – Annapolis

Edgar Allan Poe’s Grave – Baltimore

College Park Airport and Aviation Museum – College Park

Underground Railroad Experience Trail – Ashton-Sandy Spring

Gathland State Park – Frederick County

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalMarylandDay

This beautiful state spans mountains and oceans, countryside and metropolis.  Celebrate Maryland’s people and their history on August 24. Use #NationalMarylandDay to share on social media.

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Try Amazon Prime 30-Day Free Trial

NATIONAL SENIOR CITIZENS DAY

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On August 21st, National Senior Citizens Day recognizes the achievements of the more mature representatives of our nation. The day provides an opportunity to show our appreciation for their dedication, accomplishments, and services they give throughout their lives. 

Apple Watch Series 9 [GPS 45mm] Smartwatch with Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Band M/L. Fitness Tracker, ECG Apps, Always-On Retina Display, Water Resistant#SeniorCitizensDay
Apple Watch Series 9 [GPS 45mm] Smartwatch with Midnight Aluminum Case with Midnight Sport Band M/L. Fitness Tracker, ECG Apps, Always-On Retina Display, Water Resistant
Freedom Alert, Landline Personal Emergency Device, 2-Way Call with Family and Police for Home Safety, Device for Seniors and The Elderly#SeniorCitizensDay
Freedom Alert, Landline Personal Emergency Device, 2-Way Call with Family and Police for Home Safety, Device for Seniors and The Elderly
DreamSky Small Digital Alarm Clock for Bederoom, Large Big Numbers Display with Brightness Dimmer, Electric Bedside Desk Clock with USB Charging Port, Adjustable Alarm Volume, 12/24Hr, Snooze#SeniorCitizensDay
DreamSky Small Digital Alarm Clock for Bederoom, Large Big Numbers Display with Brightness Dimmer, Electric Bedside Desk Clock with USB Charging Port, Adjustable Alarm Volume, 12/24Hr, Snooze
Introducing Amazon Echo Hub | 8” smart home control panel with Alexa | Compatible with thousands of devices#SeniorCitizensDay
Introducing Amazon Echo Hub | 8” smart home control panel with Alexa | Compatible with thousands of devices

According to the 2017 census, 47 million seniors live in the United States. By 2060, that number will nearly double. Their wealth of knowledge, skill, and experience offer so much to the next generation. As technologies advance, these are the people who’ve experienced each step of change. Not only have they contributed to it, but they understand first hand the benefits and the drawbacks. They know life without the advancements that exist today. 

By the time you’re eighty years old you’ve learned everything. You only have to remember it. ~ George Burns

Just Getting Started Morgan Freeman (Actor), Tommy Lee Jones (Actor), & 1 more
Just Getting Started

Morgan Freeman (Actor), Tommy Lee Jones (Actor), & 1 more

Our senior citizens are pioneers of science, medicine, psychology, civil rights and so much more. Their valuable contributions to our communities create better places to live. They deserve the respect and dignity their achievements earn them. The day encourages supporting senior citizens to live their lives to the fullest and as independently as possible. 

Explore More…

HOW TO OBSERVE #SeniorCitizensDay

Spend time with the senior citizens you know. Let them know they are appreciated and loved. It may also be a good day to volunteer at a retirement home. Share your smile with those who may not otherwise get a visitor today. 

Secondhand Lions [Blu-ray] Michael Caine (Actor), Robert Duvall (Actor), & 1 more 
Secondhand Lions

Michael Caine (Actor), Robert Duvall (Actor), & 1 more 

As Covid19 is still a great concern for these age groups, take it virtual. Video chats, telephone calls, even a special care package direct from Amazon will seriously brighten someones day. With lockdowns being reimposed, communication becomes more important.

Lockdowns mean in some cases they are confined to thier rooms. They cannot speak to or see each other. They can no longer have activities and social meals. No physical therapies room, and no exercise in the halls. While these measures are ment to protect them, they still fall short as we have seen by the numbers reported from facilities. Some do a very good job and some are still struggling.

The biggest danger is the isolation many feel. With no visitors allowed they have been cut off from family, community outreach and as I said even each other. I’ve worked with seniors for many years, that social interaction helps prevent both mental and physical decline. Some more than others profoundly feel the effects. No one wants to be forgotten.

Send a card, chat, patiently endure teaching about technology if possible. Remember when you get frustrated, they may have taught you how to use a spoon.. among other things.

Grumpy Old Men Jack Lemmon (Actor), Walter Matthau (Actor), & 1 more 
Grumpy Old Men (DVD)

Jack Lemmon (Actor), Walter Matthau (Actor), & 1 more 

If you are a senior citizen, check for special discounts and promotions that may be offered at stores and restaurants in your area.

Use #SeniorCitizensDay to post on social media.

Red (Special Edition) [Blu-ray] Bruce Willis (Actor), Morgan Freeman (Actor), & 1 more
Red (Special Edition) [Blu-ray]

Bruce Willis (Actor), Morgan Freeman (Actor), & 1 more