NATIONAL STATES AND CAPITALS DAY

September 21, 2026August 20, 2026Jensperspectiveblog Leave a comment

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 — State Quarter Collection Book Folder Map

CLASSICAL MUSIC MONTH

August 31, 2026August 2, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 2 Comments

September is classical music month. Classical music differs greatly from today’s standards. However, classical music sets stage for the music we have today.

Classical music has many periods and styles throughout its history. Classical music is actually broken into different smaller periods, each having their own differences. It is interesting to see just how much music has changed over time!

Classical Music Time Periods

(PLEASE NOTE: The dates of the time periods are only estimates since there are no exact dates for when each time period occurred/ began/ended)

Medieval (500ish – 1400) The music of this time was connected to the church. Forms of music from the early part of this period would be Gregorian Chants and Organum.

Some Composers From this Period: Hildegard von Bingen, Guillaume de Machaut

Renaissance (1400/1450 – 1600) The Renaissance era brought many new ideas and gave a little bit more freedom from the church, which allowed for more experimentation with music. The printing press, invented in the 1400’s, also allowed for music to be printed. Instrumental music was developed as well.

Some Composers From this Period: William Byrd, Claudio Monteverdi, Josquin Des Prez

Baroque (1600 – 1750) The music of the Baroque was very ornate. This period also had the creation of the concerto, canata, oratorio, and the sonata. There were advancements with instruments as well.

Some Composers From This Period: Johann Sebastian Bach, Georg Frideric Handel, Antonio Vivaldi

Classical (1750/1775 – 1820) Classical era music was more simple/cleaner than Baroque music, and focused more on the melody. Dynamics (the change in volume) were important. The woodwind section of the orchestra was added during this period.

Some Composers From This Period: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig Van Beethoven*, Franz Joseph Hayden

*Beethoven is considered to be a bridge between the Classical and the Romantic periods

Romantic (1820 – 1910) Romantic pieces are know for being very expressive and emotional. The orchestra saw much growth in this period with the expansion of the woodwind and brass section.

Some Composers From This Period: Frédéric Chopin, Franz Liszt, Richard Wagner, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Johannes Brahms

CELEBRATE

Find some classical music to listen to alone or with friends and family. If there is a concert you can go to, go with a few friends or family. If you want to learn how to play an instrument, then go out and find a place to do so. You can learn from various resources such as books, websites, or find a private tutor in your area. If you’re in school, then consider taking band or joining a music club. There are plenty of ways to celebrate! Use #ClassicalMusicMonth to post on social media.

Hildegard von Bingen: 11,000 Virgins - Chants for the Feast of St. Ursula#ClassicalMusicMonth — Hildegard von Bingen: 11,000 Virgins – Chants for the Feast of St. Ursula

Gregorian Chant for Meditation Chant Music for the Soul#ClassicalMusicMonth — Hildegard von Bingen: 11,000 Virgins – Chants for the Feast of St. Ursula

NATIONAL PIANO MONTH

August 31, 2026August 2, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 2 Comments

All during September, we take time to honor everything piano. It’s National Piano Month! The entire month pays tribute to pianists everywhere, piano makers, and those who enjoy piano music.

Bartolomeo Cristofori is given credit for inventing the first piano in Padua, Italy, around 1700. At the time, Cristofori’s employment with the Florentine Court of the Grand Prince Ferdinando de Medici put him in charge of a large collection of the Prince’s musical instruments, including his harpsichords. During this time, Cristofori’s interest in stringed instruments led him to the early development of the piano. Cristofori’s early piano designs were a testament to technological innovations in keyboard instruments of the times. At the height of the Industrial Revolution, composers and pianists like Mozart found a passion and eagerness for a more powerful and sustainable piano sound. As expected, the piano underwent tremendous changes during the 1790s to the 1860s, leading to the modern form of the piano.

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Piano Types

Piano experts and enthusiasts identify four basic types of pianos–the Spinet, Console, Studio, and Grande. The Spinet piano is the smallest of all piano types, while the Grande is the largest. Though all pianos are upright pianos, piano experts agree each piano style has its own distinct and identifiable sound.

The Spinet piano is the smallest of all pianos. Spinet pianos have a large number of working parts and are characterized as being dropped action pianos. Dropped action refers to the hammer-like striking action to strike the keys. Similar to its relative, the Console piano is closest to the Spinet piano in size. Furthermore, pianists use the same to play the Spinet piano as they do for the Console piano.

Studio pianos are taller than both the Spinet and Console pianos, respectively. The Studio piano also offers a richer tone than the two. However, the Studio piano has a different feel in comparison to a Spinet or Console piano. Finally, Grande pianos are the tallest and largest of all pianos. Like Studio pianos, Grande pianos are full of rich sounds carried carefully within the keys to emit a beautiful sound. In addition, Grande pianos are known to be the most beautiful and durable of all four pianos. Notably, when properly cared for, Grande pianos will last generations, making them a timeless heirloom.

Other types of pianos found today are more specialized and fall into their own category. Furthermore, pianists commonly use these types of pianos in contemporary music. Electric pianos are electro-mechanical designs, and the synthesized piano-like tones use oscillators and digital samples of acoustic piano sounds.

My husband is a professional musician. While we cannot fit a piano in our living room, his Yamaha is not the kind of keyboard you find in a big box or even lots of music stores. He still performs in local venues. While it looks like a piano and indeed sounds like it, he tickles, jazz, soul, big band, and easy listening out of it with years of knowledge and practice. Make sure you check out the samples on his website.

NATIONAL PIANO MONTH HISTORY

We give credit to Bartolomeo Cristofori as the inventor of the first piano in Padua, Italy, around 1700. If it wasn’t for his interest in stringed instruments, Cristofori might not have developed the piano we know today. Because of him, the piano has undergone tremendous changes leading to the modern form of the piano.

Explore More…

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalPianoMonth

National Piano Month offers ample opportunity to play, listen and learn about the piano. Attend a concert. Listen to a variety of genres with piano as the primary instrument. Develop your piano-playing skills or teach someone else to play. Sign up for lessons. Share your favorite piano music with others.

Use #NationalPianoMonth to share the month on social media.

Jumbo Easy Piano Songbook: 200 Songs for All Occasions

The Best Songs Ever — Jumbo Easy Piano Songbook: 200 Songs for All Occasions

Featured

Savoring September

August 31, 2026August 31, 2026Jensperspectiveblog Leave a comment

As summer gently fades into autumn, September invites us to savor the beauty and warmth of this transitional month. With its crisp air, vibrant foliage, and comforting traditions, September is a time to reflect, recharge, and reconnect with ourselves and our loved ones.

Weather and Changing Seasons

September is a month of contrasts. In many places, warm days linger, allowing us to bask in the sun’s glow before the chill of winter sets in. As the leaves begin to change, we witness nature’s stunning transformation:

Early September: Expect warm, sunny days with temperatures often in the 70s and 80s (Fahrenheit). It’s perfect for outdoor activities and enjoying the last of summer’s bounty.
Late September: The air cools significantly, often dipping into the 50s and 60s. Sweaters and cozy blankets make their return as we prepare for the autumn chill.

This month serves as a gentle reminder to embrace change, both in nature and within ourselves.

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Celebrating All Month Long

Alopecia Areata Awareness Month
Baby Safety Month
Better Breakfast Month
Classical Music Month
Fall Hat Month
Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month
Hispanic Heritage Month – September 15 to October 15
Intergeneration Month
International Update Your Resume Month
Little League Month
National Americana Month
National Blood Cancer Awareness Month
National Disease Literacy Month
National Square Dance Month
National Blueberry Popsicle Month
National Chicken Month
National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month
National Courtesy Month
National Honey Month
National Italian Cheese Month
National Library Card Sign Up Month
National Neonatal Intensive Care Awareness Month
National Mortgage Professional Month
National Mushroom Month
National Pain Awareness Month
National Piano Month
National Potato Month
National Preparedness Month
National Recovery Month
National Rice Month
National Self Improvement Month
National Self-Care Awareness Month
National Sewing Month
National Sickle Cell Awareness Month
Sourdough September
National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month
National Suicide Awareness Month
Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Awareness Month
Prostate Health Month
Save Your Photos Month
Savoring Sapphires, September Birthstone
Self Improvement Month
Whole Grains Month

Birthday Symbols and Famous Birthdays

September is rich with symbolism, particularly in its birthstones and zodiac signs:

Birthstone: The sapphire, symbolizing wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. Its deep blue hue is reminiscent of the clear autumn sky.
Zodiac Signs: Virgo (August 23 – September 22) and Libra (September 23 – October 22). Virgos are known for their practicality and attention to detail, while Libras epitomize harmony and balance.

Famous birthdays this month include:

Freddie Mercury (September 5)
Beyoncé (September 4)
Agatha Christie (September 15)
Stephen King (September 21)

Each of these figures has left an indelible mark on their respective fields, reminding us of the creativity and inspiration that can blossom in this month.

Cozy Activities to Embrace September

As the air turns crisp and the days grow shorter, it’s the perfect time to indulge in some cozy activities. Here are a few ideas to make the most of September:

Nature Walks: Take a leisurely stroll through a local park or nature reserve to witness the changing leaves. Bring along a thermos of hot cider for an extra touch of warmth.
Baking Days: September is ideal for baking seasonal treats. Try your hand at apple pies or pumpkin bread, filling your home with comforting aromas.
Book Nook: Create a cozy reading corner with soft blankets and pillows. Dive into a good book, perhaps one by a beloved September birthday author.
Crafting: Start a DIY autumn project, whether it’s creating decorative wreaths from fallen leaves or knitting scarves to prepare for the colder months.
Movie Nights: Host a movie marathon featuring fall-themed films. Snuggle up with popcorn, hot chocolate, and your favorite cozy blankets.
Harvest Festivals: If possible, attend local harvest festivals or farmer’s markets. Enjoy the seasonal produce and connect with your community.
Mindfulness Moments: Take time for reflection and mindfulness. Consider journaling about your hopes and goals for the coming months or simply enjoy a moment of stillness outdoors.

Embracing the Spirit of September

September is a month that encourages us to slow down, appreciate the beauty around us, and indulge in the simple joys of life. Whether it’s through the warmth of family gatherings, the thrill of birthdays, or the serenity of nature, let this month be a reminder to savor every moment. As we transition into autumn, may we carry the light of summer in our hearts and embrace the cozy changes ahead.

What cozy activity are you looking forward to this September?

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NATIONAL MARYLAND DAY

August 23, 2026August 7, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 1 Comment

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.

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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)

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

Harriet Tubman: The Road to Freedom Paperback – January 5, 2005

by Catherine Clinton (Author)

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)

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

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)

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 – )

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.

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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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