NATIONAL ONION DAY

June 26, 2026June 6, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 4 Comments

Through all the years — and sometimes tears — National Onion Day on June 27 recognizes the flavor and aroma the bulb of the allium family brings to numerous recipes.

Whether we choose a sweet, white, red, or the ever-favorite yellow, we count on the onion to enhance the flavor of our savory recipes. They pair well with meats and salads, making the ever-versatile onion a cooking powerhouse. Added to eggs or pickled, it’s the required seasoning next to our salt and pepper.

While the onion packs in the flavor with very few calories, it’s also rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. Add onions to every meal to increase your dietary fiber and vitamin B6. As a bonus, you won’t be adding any cholesterol. With so many varieties to choose from, onions provide plenty of opportunities for us to relish the benefits.

As an industry, onions add $6 billion to U.S. markets. From farm to distribution to grocers and restaurants, onions generate economic growth throughout the year.

The Core of an Onion: Peeling the Rarest Common Food—Featuring More Than 100 Historical Recipes #NationalOnionDay — The Core of an Onion: Peeling the Rarest Common Food—Featuring More Than 100 Historical Recipes

The Onion Lover's Cookbook: With Over 100 Recipes: Knowing And Using Onions, Garlic, Leeks, Shallots, Spring Onions And Chives#NationalOnionDay — The Core of an Onion: Peeling the Rarest Common Food—Featuring More Than 100 Historical Recipes

HISTORY

The National Onion Association founded National Onion Day on June 27, 2019, to honor the anniversary of the association. They represent almost 500 onion growers, shippers, packers and associated members across the country and officially incorporated on June 27, 1913, in Ohio. The association celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2013.

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HOW TO OBSERVE

Be sure to add fresh onion for a punch of flavor to your favorite dish. No matter how you slice it, the onion brings some of the best flavors together! Whether you like to caramelize it or pickle it, tell us how you love to cook with onions!

Try these mouth-watering recipes from the National Onion Association:
High Protein Quinoa, Onion and Kale Salad
Spicy Onion Panini with Basil and Roasted Red Pepper
Oniony Meatloaf
Pan Fried Onion Slices

Use #NationalOnionDay to share your best recipes and tips on social media.

McCormick Culinary Minced Onion, 17 oz - One 17 Ounce Container of Dried Minced Onion Flakes, Perfect for Soups, Sauces, Meatballs, Relishes and Casseroles#NationalOnionDay — McCormick Culinary Minced Onion, 17 oz – One 17 Ounce Container of Dried Minced Onion Flakes, Perfect for Soups, Sauces, Meatballs, Relishes and Casseroles

French's Original Crispy Fried Onions, 24 oz - One 24 Ounce Bag of Crunchy Fried Onions to Sprinkle on Salads, Potatoes, Chicken, Burgers and Green Bean Casseroles#NationalOnionDay — McCormick Culinary Minced Onion, 17 oz – One 17 Ounce Container of Dried Minced Onion Flakes, Perfect for Soups, Sauces, Meatballs, Relishes and Casseroles

NATIONAL VOLUNTEER MONTH

March 31, 2026March 5, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 4 Comments

April recognizes all those who give there time and energy during National Volunteer Month. In the United States, volunteerism is instilled at a young age. In many parts of the country, it is the cornerstone of summer vacation or woven into after school programs. Most organizations in small towns, rural counties and the largest cities would not function without volunteers. In some families, the baton of volunteerism is handed down generation after generation.

Rural fire and ambulance departments remain staffed due to the efforts of volunteers. The underprivileged receive much needed medical care thanks to volunteers. Long overdue repairs and upgrades are made to a senior women’s home thanks to an organization’s annual call for donations and skilled workers. A woman answers a call on a suicide hotline because she cared enough to give up a few hours to train and listen to someone desperate and alone. A team sets up tables at a soup kitchen every week. Another group delivers meals to men and women who can no longer cook for themselves. Boys and girls sell ice cream sandwiches during a fair to raise money for a homeless shelter.

Volunteers come in all shapes and sizes. They pick a cause and make a difference in someone’s life. Sometimes the difference a drop in the bucket. Other times it creates a tidal wave of change. From the anonymous volunteers who donate their resources to those whose efforts are part of larger national organizations like 4-H, Boy and Girl Scouts of America, or American Red Cross or a local grassroots group, their missions provide valuable support to communities in times of need.

NATIONAL VOLUNTEER MONTH HISTORY

President George H.W. Bush launch the 1000 Points of Light campaign in 1991 and established April as National Volunteer Month.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalVolunteerMonth

Thank a volunteer.
Volunteer! Many volunteers will tell you it is a rewarding experience.
You don’t have to have a ton of time.
Do you have a special talent or skill that may benefit a charity or organization? Offer your services or ask how you can be of help.
Use #NationalVolunteerMonth to share on social media.

National Volunteer Month volunteer appreciation gifts T-Shirt#NationalVolunteerMonth — National Volunteer Month volunteer appreciation gifts T-Shirt

Volunteer log book: Volunteering journal, notebook & record book, Volunteer gift#NationalVolunteerMonth — National Volunteer Month volunteer appreciation gifts T-Shirt

NATIONAL SPINACH DAY

March 25, 2026March 3, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 2 Comments

On March 26th each year, National Spinach Day reminds us of the health benefits packed into this leafy green vegetable. Not only are there so many delicious ways that you can enjoy spinach, but it is also incredibly good for you!

An annual plant, spinach grows natively in central and southwestern Asia. Thought to have originated in ancient Persia, Arab traders carried spinach into India and then later introduced into ancient China. There it was known as “Persian vegetable.” The earliest available record of the spinach plant was found in Chinese, saying that the spinach plant was introduced into China via Nepal.

Spinach Recipes (Superfoods Cookbook)#NationalSpinachDay — Spinach Recipes (Superfoods Cookbook)

365 Delicious Spinach Recipes: Unlocking Appetizing Recipes in The Best Spinach Cookbook#NationalSpinachDay — Spinach Recipes (Superfoods Cookbook)

During her reign as queen of France, Catherine de Medici enjoyed spinach so much, it was served at every meal. To this day, dishes made with spinach are known as “Florentine” reflecting Catherine’s birth in Florence.

Spinach is:

eaten raw or cooked and is available fresh, frozen or canned.
one of the best sources of iron.
an excellent source of calcium, folic acid, fiber, protein, calcium and vitamins A, C and K.
loaded with cancer-fighting antioxidants
believed to help improve cardiovascular and gastrointestinal health.

Types of spinach:

Savoy: dark green color with curly leaves; usually sold in fresh bunches.
Flat or Smooth Leaf: broad, smooth leaves; mostly grown for canned and frozen spinach as well as soups, baby food and processed foods.
Semi-savoy: a hybrid variety with crinkly leaves: is sold fresh and processed.

Following China, the United States produces the world’s second-largest crop of spinach.
California, Arizona, and New Jersey are the top spinach-producing states in the United States.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalSpinachDay

Many of us enjoy spinach that celebrating is easy! Shake up your vegetable routine and mix up your greens. Experiment with some spinach.

Fresh spinach salad
Spinach pizza
Spinach dip
Cream spinach
Spinach lasagna
Add spinach to scrambled eggs

You can also plant some spinach in your spring garden. Not only will you reap the benefits of a lush green salad, but spinach doesn’t require much space.

Spinach grows in pots on a sunny balcony or in a small garden space.
Use fertile soil.
Plant in cool weather.
Keep moisture levels consistent.
Harvest and enjoy!
You can plant again in the fall. Double the bounty!

Share your favorite ways to add spinach to your meals. Use #NationalSpinachDay to post on social media.

Del Monte Canned Fresh Cut Leaf Spinach, 13.5 Ounce (Pack of 12)#NationalSpinachDay — Del Monte Canned Fresh Cut Leaf Spinach, 13.5 Ounce (Pack of 12)

Augason Farms Dehydrated Spinach Flakes 8 oz No. 10 Can#NationalSpinachDay — Del Monte Canned Fresh Cut Leaf Spinach, 13.5 Ounce (Pack of 12)

NATIONAL ARTICHOKE HEARTS DAY

March 15, 2026February 3, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 1 Comment

On March 16th, National Artichoke Hearts Day offers a tasty option to add flavor to any dish.

According to the California Artichoke Advisory Board, artichokes are a good source of antioxidants, vitamin C, folate, and magnesium. The antioxidants in artichokes are very good for your liver and help promote healthy skin. Artichokes are also high in fiber, calcium, and protein while low in calories. These reasons, plus being fat-free and cholesterol-free, make artichokes a healthy and delicious food to celebrate!

The total antioxidant capacity of an artichoke flower head is one of the highest reported for vegetables.
The fleshy base of the artichoke is perhaps the most enjoyably edible part of this oddly-shaped vegetable.
California is known as the artichoke capital of the world. They supply nearly 100% of North American fresh artichokes.

While artichokes may be a little difficult to prepare, you can find artichoke hearts packed in vinegar, oil, or marinade. Don’t let the artichoke heart fool you. They’re more versatile than they seem. Eat them as a snack or add them to dips or sauces. They also make excellent toppings on pizzas and flatbread. Toss them into the skillet for a savory sauté or infuse them into a broth. Artichoke hearts just might turn into a healthy addition to your cooking routine!

Heart of the Artichoke and Other Kitchen Journeys#ArtichokeHeartsDay — Heart of the Artichoke and Other Kitchen Journeys

Easy Artichoke Cookbook: 50 Delicious Artichoke Recipes#ArtichokeHeartsDay — Heart of the Artichoke and Other Kitchen Journeys

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HOW TO OBSERVE #ArtichokeHeartsDay

Pick up some fresh artichokes or canned artichoke hearts to make your favorite recipes. You can even test out a few new recipes with friends and family. Be sure to save and share your best ones. We offer a few techniques for you to try with your artichoke hearts, too.

Roast artichoke hearts with your potatoes and carrots. Season them lightly with olive oil and salt and pepper.
Try grilling fresh artichoke hearts for a smoky addition to your meal.
Create an artichoke salad or an artichoke dressing.
Make an artichoke heart and grilled cheese sandwich with smoked provolone.
Warm-up with this Lemony Artichoke Soup.
Another hearty recipe is this Artichoke Hearts Gratin.
Make a variety of dips and sauces, too.

Use #ArtichokeHeartsDay to post on social media.

NATIONAL KANSAS DAY

March 14, 2026March 3, 2026Jensperspectiveblog 4 Comments

On March 15, National Kansas Day recognizes The Sunflower State.
Magnificent herds of bison, elk, mule deer and antelope roamed the vast open plains populated by Cherokee, Osage, Pawnee and many other tribes. The region became a part of the United States with the Louisiana Purchase in 1803.

Generations of travelers came to Kansas as the country expanded. From the Corps of Discover in 1804 to the Pony Express, all the roads in Kansas seemed to point westward.
Railroads brought rapid settlement to the territory and with it the divisive decision for citizens regarding statehood. Would Kansas be free or slave? The debates turned so vicious, the territory earned the name “Bleeding Kansas” before entering the union as the 34th state and free.

Official Kansas Symbols

State Capital – Topeka
State Motto – Ad Astra Per Aspera
State Nickname – The Sunflower State
State Bird – Western Meadowlark
State Fish –
State Tree – Cottonwood
State Song – Home on the Range
State Animal – American Buffalo
State Reptile – Ornate Box Turtle
State Insect – Honeybee
State Beverage –
State Fruit –
State Grass – Little Bluestem Grass
State Flower – Wild Native Sunflower
State Amphibian – Barred Tiger Salamander
State Soil – Harney Silt Loam
State Dessert –

With the railroads, ranching, livestock, and agriculture grew. The verdant, fertile soil of the Kansas farmland made the state the Breadbasket of the World.
Frank L. Baum even depicted farm life for one young girl named Dorothy in his books about a place called Oz.

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz took the world by storm, especially when Hollywood put Judy Garland, Ray Bolger, Jack Haley, Bert Lahr, Frank Morgan, Margaret Hamilton and Billie Burke in the cast. There was indeed no place like home, no place like Kansas.

Totally Bamboo A Slice of Life Kansas State Serving and Cutting Board, 11" x 8.75"#NationalKansasDay — Totally Bamboo A Slice of Life Kansas State Serving and Cutting Board, 11″ x 8.75″

Kansas Gifts, Kansas Decor for Home - 'There's No Place Like Kansas Candle, w/Sunflower Fields & Fresh Air I Kansas Souvenirs I Kansas State Gifts I 9oz Jar, 50Hr Burn, USA Made#NationalKansasDay — Totally Bamboo A Slice of Life Kansas State Serving and Cutting Board, 11″ x 8.75″

Hidden Treasures

Coronado Heights Castle – Lindsborg

Dorothy’s House and Land of Oz – Liberal

World’s Largest Ball of Twine – Cawker City

Geographical Center of the Contiguous United States – Lebanon

World’s Largest Czech Egg – Wilson

One of the most critical decisions in Civil Rights history took place in Topeka, Kansas. The appeal of Brown vs. the Board of Education was brought before the Supreme Court of the United States in 1954. What had started with groups of parents and teachers in all-black schools in communities across the country had finally culminated in a final decision. Separate but equal violated the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution.

Kansas Flavor

Bierocks
Grebble
Lefse
Loose meat Sandwhich
Corn on the Cob
Zwieback
Fried Chicken
BBQ
Chicken and noodles
Sour Cream & Raisin Pie

Famous

Bessie Anderson Stanley – Writer – (1879 – 1952)

Bessie Anderson Stanley - He Has Achieved Success - 11x14 Unframed Typography Book Page Print - Great Gift and Decor for Poets, Artists and Home Under $15

by Personalized Signs by Lone Star Art — Bessie Anderson Stanley – He Has Achieved Success – 11×14 Unframed Typography Book Page Print – Great Gift and Decor for Poets, Artists and Home Under $15

by Personalized Signs by Lone Star Art

Clarence Batchelor – Cartoonist – (April 1, 1888 – September 5, 1977)

Hattie McDaniel – Actress – (June 10, 1895 – October 26, 1952)

Hattie: The Life of Hattie McDaniel Kindle Edition

by Carlton Jackson (Author)

Buster Keaton – Actor – (October 4, 1895 – February 1, 1966)

The Buster Keaton Collection - Volume 1 (The General / Steamboat Bill, Jr.) [Blu-ray]

Blu-ray

Buster Keaton (Actor, Director, Writer), Marion Mack (Actor), & 2 more — The Buster Keaton Collection – Volume 1 (The General / Steamboat Bill, Jr.) [Blu-ray]

Blu-ray

Buster Keaton (Actor, Director, Writer), Marion Mack (Actor), & 2 more

Amelia Earhart – Aviator – (July 24, 1897 – January 5, 1939)

Amelia Lost: The Life and Disappearance of Amelia Earhart Kindle Edition

by Candace Fleming (Author) — Amelia Lost: The Life and Disappearance of Amelia Earhart
by Candace Fleming (Author)

Amelia
#NationalKansasDay — Amelia Lost: The Life and Disappearance of Amelia Earhart
by Candace Fleming (Author)

Aaron Douglas – Painter – (May 26, 1899 – February 2, 1979)

Aaron Douglas: Art, Race, and the Harlem Renaissance Paperback – June 1, 1995

by Amy Helene Kirschke (Author)

William Inge – Playwright – (May 3, 1913 – June 10, 1973)

Life of William Inge: The Strains of Triumph Hardcover – June 1, 1989

by Ralph F. Voss (Author)

Gwendolyn Brooks – Poet – (June 7, 1917 – December 3, 2000)

The Essential Gwendolyn Brooks: (American Poets Project #19) Hardcover – November 17, 2005

by Gwendolyn Brooks (Author), Elizabeth Alexander (Editor)

Charlie Parker – Saxophonist – (August 29, 1920 – March 12, 1955)

Ken Burns Jazz
Ken Burns JAZZ Collection Charlie Parker — Ken Burns Jazz

Ken Burns JAZZ Collection Charlie Parker

Kansas City Lightning: The Rise and Times of Charlie Parker
#NationalKansasDay — Ken Burns Jazz

Ken Burns JAZZ Collection Charlie Parker

Robert Altman – Film Director – (February 20, 1925 – November 20, 2006)

Robert Altman: The Oral Biography by Zuckoff Mitchell (2009-10-20) Hardcover Hardcover

Harrison Ford – Actor – (July 13, 1942 -)

Harrison Ford a Biography Hardcover – June 1, 1992

by Robert Sellers (Author) — Harrison Ford a Biography Hardcover – June 1, 1992
by Robert Sellers (Author)

Lasaky – Sophisticated Sleeveless V-neck Fit #NationalKansasDay — Harrison Ford a Biography Hardcover – June 1, 1992
by Robert Sellers (Author)

Basil Poledouris – Composer – (August 21, 1945 – November 8, 2006)

The Film Music of Basil Poledouris

Basil Poledouris (Author)

Lynette Woodard – Basketball coach – (August 12, 1959 – )

Lynette Woodard: The First Female Globetrotter (Sports Stars) Paperback – October 1, 1986

by Bert Rosenthal (Author)

Melissa Etheridge – Singer/Songwriter – (May 29, 1961 – )

The Truth Is... My Life in Love and Music Hardcover – June 19, 2001

by Melissa Etheridge (Author), Laura Morton (Author) — The Truth Is… My Life in Love and Music Hardcover – June 19, 2001

by Melissa Etheridge (Author), Laura Morton (Author)

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalKansasDay

Discover the trails and byways of Kansas! Follow the Yellow Brick Road, find an adventure and history or explore the back roads. Dive into barbeque while listening to live jazz. Celebrate National Kansas Day with us! Use #NationalKansasDay to share on social media.

Jen's Perspective Blog

Love, laugh, live! Life to the fullest.

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NATIONAL ONION DAY

HISTORY

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