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NATIONAL STATES AND CAPITALS DAY

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September 22 focuses on raising awareness and sharing education about all 50 states and their capitals on National States and Capitals Day.

As children, we learn about the 50 states and their capitals in the U.S. But as we get older, we tend to forget those important cities and their role in crafting policy and influencing the economy. And, while everybody knows their own state capital, many do not even remember the capital of the state next door. Today, let’s take the time to remind ourselves how important every state and capital is to our nation.

Learning about States and Capitals

Remember those paper maps we were given to learn about states and capitals? Our worksheet had blank states with star indicating where the capital was supposed to be. The agony of naming each state and capital was definitely stressful! We spent time memorizing names, where the state was and naming each capital. Not to mention spelling everything correctly. Some of us were lucky to have a teacher that would play a game to help us remember.

Typically, we learn about states and capitals between the grades 3-6, starting with the state we live in. From there, we learn our country has 50 states and 50 capitals within each state. All 50 capitals have a unique history, which means there are 50 reasons why a specific city or town was chosen to be a state capital. In addition, we eventually learn how governments operate and the vital roll each state plays in our national government.

Looking for an adventure?  Take a road trip for your next vacation.  Chances are you’ll find a lot more than 50 reasons to enjoy the scenery.  Whether visiting family and friends or another specific spot, do some road tripping to some scenic vistas and appreciate the history, flavor and cultures along the way.

Explore More…

Are state capitals found in the largest cities of each states? No. The first state capitals were built according the where the majority of the population lived in a state, or near a main access hub. For example,  in North Dakota the state capital is Bismarck, but was once the capital of the Dakota Territory. The Northern Pacific Railroad was built to transfer goods from eastern U.S. to the west, making Bismarck the prime location for state government. Bismarck became the official state capital only after the territory was split into 2 states–North and South Dakota.

Huh?

  • The letter Q is the only letter NOT found in any of the state names
  • Sweet Home, Alabama is a real place.
  • It’s illegal to bury people in San Francisco, California.
  • New Jersey has a volcano.
  • South Carolina has a place called Monkey Island, that has over 4,000 rhesus monkeys.
  • The state bird for Wisconsin is a plastic flamingo.
  • There are more chickens in Delaware than there are people.
  • The Empire State Building in New York has it’s own zip code.

State Capitals in Small Cities

  • Juneau, Alaska, population est. 32,300.
  • Dover, Delaware, population est. 39,400.
  • Frankfort, Kentucky, population est. 28,600.
  • Augusta, Maine, population est. 18,900.
  • Annapolis, Maryland, population est. 40,800.
  • Jefferson City, Missouri, population est. 43,230.
  • Helena, Montana, population est. 32,100.
  • Concord, New Hampshire, population est. 4,000.
  • Pierre, South Dakota, population est. 14,100.
  • Montpelier, Vermont, population est. 8,100.

BEHIND NATIONAL STATES AND CAPITALS DAY

Dick & Jane Educational Snacks receives credit for the idea to celebrate National States and Capitals Day on September 22. Not only does it raise awareness about the importance of knowing all 50 states and capitals, it reminds people to have fun while learning.

LEARN YOUR STATES AND CAPITALS

  • Divide learning about states into regions to learn each region before moving on to the next.
  • Check out a book from the library each week on a specific state to learn facts. Return the book and pick another state until all states have been covered.
  • Learn fun facts about states. What famous people are from there? What kind of tourist attractions might be fun to visit?
  • Fix a puzzle with all 50 states and capitals.
  • Draw a map of the United States with the states and fill in the capitals, too.
  • Use Dick & Jane Educational Snacks to help your kids learn about states and capitals.
  • Tag your videos learning states and capitals on social media #NationalStatesandCapitalsDay.
State Quarter Collection Book Folder Map#NationalStatesandCapitalsDay
State Quarter Collection Book Folder Map
Dick & Jane Educational Snacks | STATES & CAPITALS - 120 bags featuring all 50 states from Alabama to Wyoming #NationalStatesandCapitalsDay
Dick & Jane Educational Snacks | STATES & CAPITALS – 120 bags featuring all 50 states from Alabama to Wyoming
EDUCATIONAL SNACKS – Variety Pack | Nut-Free, All-Natural Educational Snacks for Kids | 6 Different Subjects – 5 Bags Each | 30-Pack for Classrooms, Gifting & Learning on the Go#NationalStatesandCapitalsDay
EDUCATIONAL SNACKS – Variety Pack | Nut-Free, All-Natural Educational Snacks for Kids | 6 Different Subjects – 5 Bags Each | 30-Pack for Classrooms, Gifting & Learning on the Go
Imagimake Mapology USA Map with Capitals | Learning States and Capitals | US Geography Toys for Ages 8-13 | Jigsaw Puzzles for Kids Ages 8-10 | Educational Back to School Gifts for Kids Age 5-7 & 9-12#NationalStatesandCapitalsDay
Imagimake Mapology USA Map with Capitals | Learning States and Capitals | US Geography Toys for Ages 8-13 | Jigsaw Puzzles for Kids Ages 8-10 | Educational Back to School Gifts for Kids Age 5-7 & 9-12

CARE BEARS SHARE YOUR CARE DAY

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On September 9th, Care Bears Share Your Care Day inspires giving and volunteering in significant ways.

For more than 35 years, Care Bears have taught children of all ages about sharing their feelings and caring for others. The Care Bears toy line was initially introduced in 1983 to caring fans everywhere. And they’ve never been out of the heart and minds of fans since.

At their core, CARE BEARS™ SHARE YOUR CARE DAY have heart and are all about love, caring, and sharing with others. Care Bears also support charities around the world, helping families in need. Through We Care Bears, ZachKapCares, Fathom/en-ABLE, United Way, Operation Smile, and many more they bring hope and caring to others.

With help from a team of Care Bears Ambassadors, Care Bears hope to generate national support for a movement called #ShareYourCare to inspire people toward philanthropic generosity not just on that day, but every day of the year!

Care Bears - 14" Plush - Wish Bear
Care Bears – 14″ Plush – Wish Bear
Hopeful Heart Bear
Hopeful Heart Bear

HISTORY OF NATIONAL CARE BEARS #SHAREYOURCARE DAY 

Care Bears #ShareYourCare Day was submitted by American Greetings Entertainment in April 2015.

HOW TO OBSERVE #ShareYourCareDay

The main focus of Share Your Care Day is to inspire acts of kindness and goodwill across the United States and beyond. And, a team of Care Bears Ambassadors and Care Bears partners pledge to help make this goal come true. Care Bears have taught fans worldwide the importance of caring for others. Share Your Care Day is the perfect opportunity for everyone to participate in acts of kindness – and to remember that goodwill and consideration toward others are essential every day of the year.

Participation is as simple as doing something nice for someone else.

  • Treat a friend to coffee.
  • Share a toy with a sibling.
  • Do an extra chore without being asked.
  • Help an older neighbor bring their trash cans to the street.
  • Organize a tree-planting campaign.
  • Buy a meal for a homeless family.
  • Volunteer at a local charity.
  • Animal Allies always needs fosters for kitties.
  • Not sure how to help? Try this.

The #ShareYourCare movement is all about acts of kindness, big and small. Care Bears encourage you to do something nice for someone today. Care Bears hope to encourage you to be kind, think of others and #ShareYourCare every day

Use #ShareYourCare Day on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Featured Image from Care Bears Facebook page.
Care Bears 16", Birthday ,Scented, Plush - Soft Huggable Material!,
Care Bears 16″, Birthday ,Scented, Plush – Soft Huggable Material!,
Care Bears Grumpy Bear
Care Bears Grumpy Bear
Care Bears New 2022 14" Plush - 40th Anniversary Care-a-Lot Bear - Soft Huggable Material!
Care Bears New 2022 14″ Plush – 40th Anniversary Care-a-Lot Bear – Soft Huggable Material!
Care Bears Cheer Bear
Care Bears Cheer Bear

NATIONAL WILDLIFE DAY

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National Wildlife Day on September 4th encourages improved awareness of the species around us and in the broader world. 

This National Day focuses on endangered species, preservation, and conservation efforts around the world. Zoos, aviaries and marine sanctuaries provide a variety of ways to get involved.

No matter where you live, opportunities abound to learn and participate in the day. Wildlife doesn’t only exist in the forest or outside the city limits. Look closely. The creatures and animals sharing our world live under our feet and in the sky above us. Our rivers, lakes and oceans are teeming with wildlife of all sizes. It’s essential to understand how we impact the habitats that animals need to survive. Their homes supply their food and shelter.

Around the world, facilities and organizations will present seminars and educational programs. Additionally, podcasts and documentaries alert us to the changing conditions for various species around the world.  Some may be as close as your own back yard. From the sky to the depths of the ocean, wildlife surrounds us.

Since wildlife relies on a stable habitat, understanding conservation and preservation is important. Developing strategies helps to maintain existing habitats and repair or replace those that have been destroyed. These strategies are especially important when a decline in a species is detected. For example, each year in August, International Whale Shark Day brings attention to the plight of the world’s largest fish. Despite efforts, the gentle giant continues to decline in numbers.   

NATIONAL WILDLIFE DAY HISTORY

Colleen Paige, the Pet Lifestyle Expert, and author founded National Wildlife Day in 2005. She created the day in honor of and later in memory of wildlife conservationist Steve Irwin. The global awareness day brings education to the public concerning the number of endangered animals and the need for conservation and preservation. 

If we can teach people about wildlife, they will be touched. Share my wildlife with me. Because humans want to save things that they love. – Steve Irwin

Explore More…

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalWildlifeDay

Participate in a presentation. Volunteer to fund-raise for rehabilitation services. Other ways to celebrate the day include:

  • Learn about the needs of endangered species and how conservation efforts work.
  • While learning, implement your own techniques, as suggested by preservationists.
  • Go on a wildlife walk and learn about the inhabitants near you. Visit the National Wildlife Federation to learn more. 

Use #NationalWildlifeDay to post on social media. Share photos of your neighborhood wildlife or even those farther from home. 

Living Planet: Preserving Edens of the Earth#NationalWildlifeDay
Living Planet: Preserving Edens of the Earth
Animal Kingdom Playing Cards #NationalWildlifeDay
Animal Kingdom Playing Cards
WWF WWF14574 Plush Collection World Wildlife Fund Bunny Plush Snow Rabbit, Realistically Designed Plush Toy, Approx. 24 cm Tall and Wonderfully Soft, Multi-Coloured#NationalWildlifeDay
WWF WWF14574 Plush Collection World Wildlife Fund Bunny Plush Snow Rabbit, Realistically Designed Plush Toy, Approx. 24 cm Tall and Wonderfully Soft, Multi-Coloured
Build a Bear Workshop World Wildlife Fund Series 2012 Plush Stuffed Leopard Cheetah #NationalWildlifeDay
Build a Bear Workshop World Wildlife Fund Series 2012 Plush Stuffed Leopard Cheetah

NATIONAL MORTGAGE PROFESSIONAL MONTH

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NATIONAL MORTGAGE PROFESSIONAL MONTH

Every September, National Mortgage Professional Month recognizes the professionals who play a role in helping people finance the dream of homeownership. 

Since 2011, home sales in the United States have steadily grown, meaning each year more and more people are buying a home. Whether it’s a first home or the next home, mortgage professions understand how exciting and stressful the process can be. A mortgage professional takes on the task of making sure everything is in place by closing day. They may be loan officers, processors, underwriters, servicers, insurers, or other mortgage professionals, but all of them work hard to make your home loan a reality. 

Their varied roles may include:

  • Reviewing loan applications
  • Verifying credit
  • Processing loan applications
  • Appraising the property
  • Examining the title
  • Verifying the purchase price, annual percentage rate, and term of the loan
  • Preparing the loan

Most people are not aware of the number of people and amount of work involved between the moment someone decides to buy a home and the day the final contracts are signed. 

NATIONAL MORTGAGE PROFESSIONAL MONTH HISTORY

In 2015, United Guaranty founded National Mortgage Professional Month to honor all mortgage professionals.

HOW TO OBSERVE #MortgageProfessionalMonth

During September, give a mortgage professional you know a shout-out. Recommend them to someone who is looking for a new home. Let them know you appreciate all they do to help people achieve homeownership. If you’re considering purchasing a home, learn about the process and what to expect. 

Use #MortgageProfessionalMonth to share on social media.