Category Archives: Holidays

Holidays

Canada Day

Flag for Canada

Canada Day 2024 in Canada

A few Remiders For All Canadians

On July 1, 1867, Canada became a self-governing dominion of Great Britain and a federation of four provinces: Nova Scotia; New Brunswick; Ontario; and Quebec. The anniversary of this date was called Dominion Day until 1982. Since 1983, July 1 has been officially known as Canada Day.

Canada is an exceptional country known for its remarkable diversity, natural beauty, and high quality of life. Here are some positive aspects that make Canada stand out:

Natural Beauty

  1. Stunning Landscapes: From the Rocky Mountains to the serene lakes of Ontario, Canada is home to some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the world. National parks like Banff ,Fundy and Jasper offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and wildlife viewing.
  2. Aurora Borealis: Canada is one of the best places to witness the Northern Lights, especially in regions like the Yukon, Northwest Territories, and parts of Alberta and Manitoba.

Multiculturalism

  1. Diverse Population: Canada is a mosaic of cultures, with people from all over the world calling it home. This diversity is celebrated and has enriched Canadian culture, cuisine, and festivals.
  2. Bilingual Nation: Canada’s official languages, English and French, reflect its rich history and commitment to multiculturalism. This bilingualism enhances cultural appreciation and fosters international connections.

High Quality of Life

  1. Healthcare: Canada’s healthcare system is publicly funded, providing residents with access to essential medical services without direct charges at the point of care.
  2. Education: Canada boasts some of the best educational institutions globally, with a strong emphasis on quality education and research.
  3. Safety and Stability: Canada consistently ranks high in global indices for safety, political stability, and overall quality of life.

Inclusivity and Social Progress

  1. Human Rights: Canada is known for its progressive stance on human rights, including strong protections for LGBTQ+ individuals and an ongoing commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous communities.
  2. Gender Equality: Canada promotes gender equality and has made significant strides in creating opportunities for women in all sectors of society.

Economy and Innovation

  1. Robust Economy: Canada has a stable and diverse economy with strong sectors in natural resources, technology, manufacturing, and services.
  2. Innovation: The country is a hub for innovation, with thriving tech industries in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, and a strong focus on research and development.

Environment and Sustainability

  1. Environmental Protection: Canada is dedicated to preserving its natural resources and has numerous policies in place to combat climate change and promote sustainability.
  2. Clean Energy: The country is a leader in renewable energy, particularly hydroelectric power, and is investing in green technologies to reduce its carbon footprint.

Canada’s blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, high quality of life, and commitment to social progress makes it a remarkable place to live, visit, and explore.

 
food, Fun Holidays

Celebrate National Waffle Iron Day

Celebrate National Waffle Iron Day with Delicious Creativity!

Hey Waffle Enthusiasts! 🧇

Today is National Waffle Iron Day, a perfect occasion to dust off that versatile kitchen gadget and get creative with your breakfast, lunch, or dinner! Whether you’re a classic waffle lover or an adventurous foodie, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into some fun ways to make the most out of your waffle iron.

1. Classic Buttermilk Waffles

Start your day with the timeless favorite. Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and perfect with a drizzle of maple syrup and a pat of butter. Here’s a quick recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 3/4 cups buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your waffle iron.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, beat the eggs and then add buttermilk, oil, and vanilla. Mix well.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
  5. Ladle the batter into the preheated waffle iron and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions until golden brown.

2. Savory Cheddar and Herb Waffles

Who says waffles are just for breakfast? These savory waffles are perfect for brunch or a light dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 1/4 cups milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh herbs (such as chives, parsley, or thyme)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your waffle iron.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. In another bowl, mix milk, eggs, and melted butter. Pour into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
  4. Fold in the shredded cheddar cheese and herbs.
  5. Cook in the waffle iron until golden and crisp. Serve with a side of sour cream or a poached egg on top.

3. Dessert Waffle Cones

Transform your waffle iron into a dessert machine with these homemade waffle cones. Perfect for summer ice cream treats!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup melted butter
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your waffle iron.
  2. In a bowl, whisk together flour and salt. In another bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Stir in the melted butter, milk, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour mixture and mix until smooth.
  4. Pour a small amount of batter onto the waffle iron and cook until golden brown.
  5. Quickly shape the warm waffle around a cone form and let cool.

Share Your Creations!

We’d love to see what you whip up today! Share your waffle iron masterpieces with us using the hashtag #WaffleIronDay. Whether you stick to the classics or venture into new territory, there’s no wrong way to celebrate this fun day.

Happy Waffling! 🧇❤️

Holidays

2024 Canada Day celebration in Saint John

2024 Canada Day celebration in Saint John

The City of Saint John is pleased to announce an exciting lineup of free, family-friendly activities in celebration of Canada Day on July 1, and residents and visitors are invited to join the festivities.

The City is partnering with AREA 506 to host the third annual Canada Day Waterfront Festival. The Waterfront Festival will take place from 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Container Village at 85 Water Street. Festival activities include face painting, circus school, buskers, arts and crafts, prizes and much more.

To top off the celebrations, a fireworks display over Lower Cove will begin at 10:00 p.m., weather permitting.

Gates to the container village open at 11:00 a.m. and activities begin at 12:00 p.m. Everyone is encouraged to gather near the main stage at 1:00 p.m. for official remarks and the opening ceremony.

Holidays

On this day June 24

Today in History

  • 2002 Africa’s worst ever train disaster kills 281

    The crash occurred near Msagali, Tanzania, when a passenger train with some 1200 passengers rolled back down Igandu hill after its brakes had failed.

  • 1982 A British Airways jumbo jet experiences a sudden total engine failure

    At the same time, the crew observed a mysterious glow in the darkness. The Boeing 747’s pilots had unwittingly flown into a cloud of volcanic ash caused by the eruption of Mount Galunggung, causing all four engines to flame out. The crew eventually succeeded in restarting the engines and landing safely in Jakarta.

  • 1948 The Berlin Blockade begins

    In reaction to the currency reform in West Germany, the Soviet Union blocked all access to West Berlin. It was one of the first major international crises of the Cold War. Western Allies launched the Berlin airlift to transport supplies to the blocked area. In Germany, the planes became known as “raisin bombers” or “candy bombers”.

  • 1901 Pablo Picasso opens his first exhibition

    The 18-year-old Spanish artist was featured for the first time in Ambroise Vollard’s gallery in 6 Rue Laffite in Paris. Neither of the two art critics that visited the show thought much about the works. Picasso went on to become one of the most influential artists of all time.

  • 1717 The world’s first Masonic Grand Lodge is established

    Freemasonry is a fraternal organization that has counted among its members a large number of known intellectuals. Due to its secretive nature, many myths about their underground activities have emerged through the ages. A Grand Lodge is the governing body for a certain geographic area.

food, Fun Holidays

Celebrating Detroit Pizza Day! 🍕

Hey Pizza Lovers!

Today, we come together to celebrate a slice of heaven known as Detroit-style pizza! 🍕

What Makes Detroit Pizza Special?

Detroit-style pizza is not your average pie. Here’s what sets it apart:

  1. The Pan: Baked in a square, steel pan that gives it a unique, crispy edge.
  2. The Dough: Thick and airy, with a chewy yet crispy texture.
  3. The Cheese: Cheese is spread all the way to the edges, caramelizing for a glorious, crispy crust.
  4. The Sauce: Traditionally, the tomato sauce is layered on top of the cheese, not underneath, giving it a distinct flavor profile.

History in a Slice

Originating in the 1940s at Buddy’s Rendezvous (now Buddy’s Pizza), this Motor City delicacy was inspired by the deep-dish pans used by local auto workers. From its humble beginnings, Detroit-style pizza has revved its way into the hearts of pizza enthusiasts across the nation.

How to Celebrate

  1. Visit a Local Pizzeria: Head to your favorite spot serving up Detroit-style pizza. Buddy’s, Loui’s, and Jet’s Pizza are iconic places to try if you’re in or near Detroit.
  2. Make Your Own: Get creative in the kitchen and bake your own Detroit-style pizza. Don’t forget the steel pan and edge-to-edge cheese!
  3. Share the Love: Post your pizza pics and tag them with #DetroitPizzaDay to join the celebration online. Let’s flood social media with deliciousness!

Fun Fact

Did you know that the blue steel pans used to bake Detroit-style pizza were originally drip trays from automotive assembly lines? Talk about a tasty twist of fate!

Join the Conversation

We want to hear from you! Share your Detroit pizza experiences, favorite toppings, and photos. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, let’s honor this savory slice of Detroit heritage together.

Happy Detroit Pizza Day!