The Gathering of Nations is the largest pow-wow in North America. It is always the fourth weekend in April every year, on the Powwow Grounds at Expo NM, in Albuquerque, New Mexico. More than 565 tribes from around the United States and 220 from Canada travel to Albuquerque to participate.
The Gathering of Nations Pow Wow is a two-day event for all people (Indian and Non-Indian) to come see colorful Native American Pow Wow dancing, to hear the songs and become enlightened with emotional happiness!
With over 3,000+ indigenous/Native American/Indian dancers and Singers representing more than 500+ tribes from Canada and the United States come to the Gathering of Nations Pow Wow annually to participate socially and competitively.
It has been said by many that the Gathering of Nations PowWow is the Mecca of Indian Country; while others have said “There is a magic about the “Gathering.”
Many people from around the world have made the Gathering of Nations Powwow their travel destination. The Gathering of Nations has grown to become more than just a “Powwow“, it’s an experience! While the Miss Indian World Pageant has become the largest and most prestigious Cultural Pageant for young Native/Indigenous women over the years.
HISTORY
The Gathering of Nations began “unofficially” in 1983 at the University of Albuquerque, in ABQ, NM. In 1984, the event took on the name Gathering of Nations Powwow, which was held on the NM Fair Grounds in the small Horse Arena, for two challenging years. After the two years at the Horse Arena, GON knew it had to move to a larger venue.
Explore more heritages… Learning our commonalities help unite us.
Visit the Gathering of Nations website. Follow on social media with: #GatheringOfNations and #MissIndianWorldPageant Follow on Facebook Follow on Twitter
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World Spay Day annually aims to decrease stray pet populations by increasing awareness of the importance of spaying and neutering programs. Around the world, a variety of effective programs reduce stray populations. These programs target both strays in neighborhoods and in shelters.
Through education, spay and neuter programs in shelters raise awareness prior to the adoption of cats and dogs. In neighborhood programs, spay and neuter programs effectively reduce stray populations over the long term with the help of the community. These types of programs are especially effective where feral cat populations exist. Since feral cats cannot be domesticated, spaying and neutering in the communities where they live to offer the most humane way to reduce the population.
Other programs may be offered through veterinarian clinics and communities, too. The observance offers an opportunity for programs to highlight the benefits of spaying and neutering and increase support for their individual programs.
In my area of Northwest Florida you can not only treat your personal pet to these health benefits, we participate with Santa Rosa Annimal Services for Community Cats Day. There are also several organizations that offer low cost spay/neuter as well. There are quite a few in Escambia County, Florida as well. Check with your local resources and help keep Community ferals under population control.
This not only prevents unwanted litters being born but helps reduce health conditions and overall health of outside pets. We practice TNR on our Community cat colony, so learn, teach and share the knowledge. You can catch some of the cat antics on our YouTube channel as well.
WORLD SPAY DAY HISTORY
Doris Day Animal League founded Spay Day USA in 1994 to bring attention to the pet overpopulation problem in the United States and encourage animal population control by neutering pets. The movement later spread globally and is now known as World Spay Day.
HOW TO OBSERVE WORLD SPAY DAY
Support a spay and neuter program in your area.
Host a fundraiser or approach your community leaders to create a program in your town.
Learn more about the importance of spaying and neutering.
Ask your veterinarian questions or volunteer at your local shelter.
February is more than just a month for chilly weather and heartfelt valentines; it’s also Spay and Neuter Awareness Month.
While there is nothing cuter than puppies and kittens, Valentine’s is coming, by contrast it is heartbreaking to watch them homeless, starving and worse. This dedicated time serves as a crucial reminder of the profound impact that responsible pet sterilization has on animal welfare, community safety, and shelter overpopulation. My husband has a font of feral abandoned cats that nobody wants. They were born into this world through no fault of their own. Half die before becoming adults. We work with our shelter to bring awareness of things like TNR programs to friends and neighbors. We also participate with ferals who wander our way. We have altered more than 20 community cats that wander by here. That is definitely the result of my husbands dilligence. By choosing to spay (for females) or neuter (for males), pet owners can directly prevent the birth of unwanted litters, improve their companion’s health, and contribute to a larger solution for homeless animals. This month challenges us all to shift from viewing these procedures as a mere option to understanding them as a fundamental pillar of responsible pet ownership.
The push for widespread spaying and neutering is a relatively modern chapter in our history with companion animals. For much of human history, pet population was uncontrolled, leading to staggering numbers of stray and feral animals. The organized movement gained significant momentum in the 1970s, alongside the rise of animal welfare advocacy. Early spay/neuter campaigns were often grassroots efforts by shelters overwhelmed by intake numbers. The formal establishment of Spay and Neuter Awareness Month itself grew from these efforts, aiming to create a unified, national platform for education. Landmark legislation, like the 1993 “Davis Law” in California requiring subsidized sterilization for adopted shelter animals, highlighted the growing recognition of sterilization as a public policy imperative for community health.
Tom & AlfieTomTom & ButtonTom & CarmelHarry, Caramel, Alfie & BlackieTom Alfie, Harry, Carmel and BlackieGoldie (The Original)MissyPandaMonteButton, Sparkle, & GreysonSplashWe had to start giving them names to identify who we are talking about…
Observing Spay and Neuter Awareness Month can take many forms, starting with personal action. If you have an unaltered pet, schedule a consultation with your veterinarian. For those looking to adopt, make “already spayed/neutered” a non-negotiable requirement. Advocacy is equally powerful: use social media to share facts, dispel myths, and spotlight local low-cost clinics or shelter fundraising campaigns. Donating to organizations that provide subsidized surgeries or sponsoring a procedure for a neighbor in need are direct ways to create change. Finally, education is key—simply talking to friends and family about the benefits, which include reduced risks of certain cancers and behavioral issues, can inspire a ripple effect of responsible decisions.
Beyond individual pet health, the community-wide benefits are undeniable. Spaying and neutering is the most humane and effective method to reduce the number of animals entering overcrowded shelters, where many face euthanasia due to lack of space and resources. It also addresses public health concerns by reducing stray populations, which can lead to fewer incidents of bites, traffic accidents, and the spread of disease. Every single procedure helps break the cycle of overpopulation, meaning fewer animals suffer from neglect, hunger, and exposure on the streets.
As Spay and Neuter Awareness Month unfolds, let’s commit to being part of the solution. Whether through a personal pledge, a social media post, or a donation, each action contributes to a future where every pet is wanted and cared for. This February, honor the bond we share with our animal companions by choosing compassion and responsibility. Together, we can ensure more pets live long, healthy lives in loving homes, and move steadily toward the goal of a truly no-kill nation.
On November 10th, The United States Marine Corps Birthday commemorates the establishment of the Continental Marines.
The United States Marine Corps, a branch of the United States Armed Forces, is responsible for providing power protection from the sea. They use the mobility of the United States Navy to deliver combined-arms task forces rapidly. The Continental Congress first established the Continental Marines on November 10, 1775, leading up to the American Revolution. Two battalions of Marines fought for independence both on land and at sea.
The birth of the U.S. Marine Corps began as a way to augment naval forces in the Revolutionary War. The recruiting headquarters was in the Tun Tavern on Water Street in Philadelphia, which is considered to be the birthplace of the Marines.
The Corps was abolished at the end of the Revolutionary War. However, on July 11, 1798, Congress ordered the creation of the Corps. Congress named it the United States Marine Corps (USMC) and directed that it be available for service under the Secretary of the Navy.
Marine Corps Presence
The USMC shares many resources with the other branches of the United States military. However, the Corps has sought to maintain its own identity with regards to mission, funding, and assets while utilizing the support available from the larger military branches. Despite having fewer installations than other branches, the Marine Corps maintains a presence on many Army posts, Naval stations, and Air Force bases.
In his birthday greeting more than 70 years ago, General Alexander Vandegrift, our 18th Commandant noted that “A birthday is a fitting time to peer backward – and forward.” That year, Marines reflected on an extraordinary year in combat during their amphibious drive across the Pacific. Despite the challenges and the horrific conditions, Marines prevailed at Guam, Saipan, and Peleliu. On 10 November 1944, Marines looked back with pride on their accomplishment – confident in their ability to meet future challenges.
In 2004, 20,000 Marines deployed to Al Anbar Province, Iraq – many Marines celebrated the birthday in places like Fallujah, Ramadi, and Al Qaim while decisively engaged in combat. That year, Marines also responded to the crisis in the Pacific following a tsunami claiming the lives of more than 200,000 people. On 10 November 2004, Marines looked back with pride on their accomplishments – confident in their ability to meet future challenges.
Some things change. Marines adapt. Their organization, training, and equipment change to the operating environment. However, some things remain the same. Marines continue to attack challenges with the same courage, commitment, loyalty, self-sacrifice, and adaptability as their predecessors in Peleliu and Fallujah. On 10 November 2014, Marines looked back with pride on our accomplishments- confident in our ability to meet future challenges.
UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS BIRTHDAY HISTORY
In 1921, General John Archer Lejeune, 13th Commandant of the Marine Corps, initiated the tradition of publishing a reminder of honorable service to all Marine commands on the anniversary of the Corps’ birth.
Since then, the United States Marine Corps members have honored the establishment of their military branch every year by republishing General Lejeune’s reminder. Gradually, they added balls and banquets to the birthday celebration.
The first formal dance took place in 1923 at the Ft. Mifflin Marine Barracks in Pennsylvania. Other events include mock battles, sporting events, and races.
In 1925, the historic Benjamin Franklin Hotel hosted the first formal Marine Ball. The ball honored the 150th birthday of the Marine Corp. General Lejeune and Secretary of War Dwight Davis attended.
Commandant, General Lemuel C. Shepherd Jr. brought even more tradition to the warriors, always faithful and always loyal to each other, their country and their traditions. Beginning in 1952, the formal cake cutting ceremony began. During the ceremony, the first piece goes to the oldest Marine present and the second piece to the youngest. This tradition is still practiced today.
October is a prime time for National Sports Day. That’s why on October 16th, the fans, families, and athletes of all the sports converging on the month come together to celebrate their favorite athletic events. All disciplines of a sport take the field, from the youngest to the seasoned professional.
While golfers hit the links to get at least nine more holes before the snow flies, hoopsters gear up for the season ahead. The puck hits center ice early in October, while baseball aims for the bleachers and clears the bases.
Football is heating up with tackles, kicks, and offsides. Don’t forget, volleyball digs midseason, too. Runners in most of the country love October. Events like 5k, half, and full marathons throughout the nation feature opportunities to enjoy the fall weather and beautifully changing landscapes. In the Western Hemisphere, families gather to watch soccer’s final kickoff. The intensity builds, and every game ends with memories of wicked kicks or the goalie’s best save.
From a young age, family road trips took many to cheer on siblings in a variety of sports. We hauled our gear from place to place, and the team knew the season was drawing to a close when the duffle bags began to smell.
We played soccer and did gymnastics. My team even won the district championship. Those strengths and lessons stayed with me as an adult. Team work translates easily from the field to a workplace.
NATIONAL SPORTS DAY HISTORY
Wale Rocks (pronounced Wally) in partnership with National Day Calendar founded National Sports Day in 2019 to celebrate the athletes, families, and fans of all sports. National Sports Day is about the benefits of sporting competition. When our youth have an opportunity to play competitively, they advance their skills and build great habits to take with them into adulthood. Family members who support them create a bond that brings them together, improving the family unit and communities throughout the nation.
Children excel at a sport when given a chance to practice under the pressure of competition in the game brain. And with soccer becoming a National Sport for all ages, Wale Rocks chose it as their first sport to spotlight.
With all sports, practice is vital. However, time touching the ball under the pressure of competition makes players excel. With the support of great coaches working their magic, these young novices mature into confident players. How exciting to watch their confidence grow.
Wale Rocks is also creating a special event to mark the National Sports Day launch.
Gather your friends to enjoy watching your favorite team. Get out and play, too. No matter your skill level, relishing the challenge and physical activity will be worth it. Besides, getting together with friends and family to celebrate a favored pastime is one of the best ways to Celebrate Every Day®. And when you do, take a team photo and share it using #NationalSportsDay.
