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NATIONAL MACARONI DAY – July 7th,2020 NATIONAL MACARONI DAY Each year on July 7th, pasta lovers across the nation dig into one of their favorite noodles on National Macaroni Day. Made with durum wheat, macaroni is a large variety of dry pasta, which typically does not contain eggs. While many people think the shape gives macaroni its name, the kind of dough used to make the noodles gives it the name. The noodle is formed into shells, spirals, straight and many other shapes, too. And in the U.S., we like our macaroni! In fact, elbow macaroni is the most common form found in the United States. We use macaroni in many different dishes from casseroles and hot dishes to soups and salads. This versatile noodle makes prepping meals a cinch, too. Many dishes made with macaroni can be made ahead, making mealtime a lot less stressful. Using macaroni in dishes is also an excellent way to stretch a recipe to feed more people. These convenient noodles serve as a base for cheese dishes as well as meat dishes, too. So, whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat lover, you can celebrate the day. HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalMacaroniDay Make your favorite dish using macaroni noodles! Whether it’s hot or cold, it won’t matter as long as it’s delicious. And when you’re using macaroni, you really can’t go wrong. We even have several recipes for you to try. Hamburger and Macaroni Hotdish Ham and Macaroni Picnic Salad Homemade Mac and Cheese Beef Macaroni Soup Macaroni recipes fill books and websites. We would love to see yours! Share them using #NationalMacaroniDay and join the conversation

AFRICAN-AMERICAN MUSIC APPRECIATION MONTH Since 1979, the United States has set aside the month of June to appreciate the musical contributions of its African-American musicians, composers, singers, and songwriters. Inspired to celebrate an enduring art form, Kenny Gamble, Ed Wright, and Dyana Williams pursued creating Black Music Month. Their efforts were backed up by generations of artists whose talents and skill built a foundation of musical ingenuity in America. Historically rooted in rich African traditions and the conflicted slave trade, black folk music provided the soil for jazz to grow. Other sounds began to join the chorus. From rhythm and blues to barbershop and swing, the artists responded to every era with a fresh wave of inspiration and visionary sound. The music breaks barriers and moves people. It inspires generation after generation of artists and music lovers. HOW TO OBSERVE Immerse yourself in the music of your favorite black musicians. Discover new sounds and genres while revisiting long lost loves. Whether it’s classic jazz or smoky blues or some fast rhythms and rhyming raps, let the singers and songwriters speak to you. Share the best and the brightest and the undiscovered using #AfricanAmericanMusicAppreciationMonth and #AAMAM on social media. HISTORY On June 7, 1979, President Jimmy Carter decreed June to be Black Music Month. Each year since Americans have celebrated the iconic music loved by generations.

NATIONAL FRIED CHICKEN DAY – July 6 NATIONAL FRIED CHICKEN DAY In the United States, July 6th chicken lovers across the country recognize National Fried Chicken Day by feasting at a nearby restaurant, home, or an outdoor picnic. Scottish immigrants brought their tradition of deep-frying chicken in fat to the southern United States. After its introduction to the American South, fried chicken soon became a staple. Over time, cooks added seasonings and spices to enrich the flavor of the chicken. “The best comfort food will always be greens, cornbread and fried chicken.” ~ Poet, Maya Angelou Fried chicken is a dish consisting of chicken pieces floured or battered, then pan-fried, deep-fried or pressure-fried. The breading adds a crisp coating to the exterior of the chicken. Knowing how to get a good crisp on the chicken may seem elusive to some. However, some of the best cooks will tell you the keys to achieving the crispiest fried chicken involves seasoning well and early in the process, adding starch to your flour and frying your chicken at the right temperature. The oil should be 300°F. Finally, let the chicken rest before serving to allow the juices to be absorbed back into the meat. Just like beef and pork, the chicken will be more tender when we allow it to rest. Traditionally the chicken is fried in lard. However, corn oil, peanut oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil are also frequently used. HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalFriedChickenDay Use this batter mix as you try this fried chicken recipe. Serve it with your favorite side dishes, too. Potato salad, cornbread, greens, or watermelon. And be sure to share! Invite some friends over, make some fried chicken, and share photos on social media using #NationalFriedChickenDay. “Fried chicken just tend to make you feel better about life.” ~ Minnie Jackson from the film The Help

NATIONAL HAWAII DAY On July 5th, National Hawaii Day recognizes the 50th state to be granted statehood. Eight islands make up The Aloha State, the largest of which is named Hawaii. The islands of Maui, Oahu, and Kauai are the next in size followed by Molokai, Lanai, Nihau, and Kahoolawe. Nearly 2,000 years ago, Polynesians navigated the Pacific ocean in double-hulled vessels from the west. Captain James Cook sailed to the islands in 1778 and would later meet his death on the big island. For generations, Hawaii ruled by the hand of the Kamehameha dynasty. King Kamehameha is still honored in Hawaii today. In 1874, a new king was elected to the throne. King Kalākaua was known as the Merrie Monarch. Kalākaua also developed a reputation as a diplomat as he set out to tour the globe in 1881. As a result, Kalakaua would become the first monarch to travel around the world. It would take the Hawaiin leader an entire year to complete the voyage. While Hawaii is the 50th state to join the Union, it has long been a strategic military installation. Its location in the Pacific has been vital to U.S. Naval operations for decades. On December 7, 1941, the surprise Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor shocked the nation and propelled the United States into World War II. The islands’ beauty and traditions consistently draw visitors for rest and relaxation. Hawaii’s pristine beaches, majestic volcanoes, and exotic atmosphere speak to a richly diverse heritage that is welcoming and fascinating. Dance, music, and song taught from one generation to the next keep traditions alive in a lush environment surrounded by ancient history. HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalHawaiiDay Join National Day Calendar by exploring the sites, sounds, flavors, and beauty of Hawaii and use #NationalHawaiiDay to share on social media.