Tag Archives: winter

National Ugly Sweater Day

19 Thursday Dec 2019

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dachshund dog wearing a red sweater

Photo by Dominika Roseclay on Pexels.com

When you think about the holiday season, what comes to your mind? You might imagine twinkling lights, blankets of snow, lush evergreen trees, stacks of beautifully wrapped presents… or maybe obnoxious, ugly sweaters!

We can’t be the only ones who have noticed this unofficial holiday become part of the season. Friday, December 20, is National Ugly Sweater Day, but before you pull out that hideous sweater from the back of the closet, let’s find out where this obscure celebration got its start.

The original “ugly sweater” first made its appearance in the 1950s but was more fondly known as a “jingle bell sweater.” They were quite different from the sweaters we see nowadays; these pieces featured tasteful winter themes such as reindeer, snowflakes and other simple motifs. These sweaters were never intended to be ugly; rather they were creative and joyful. They remained modestly popular for the next three decades.

In the 1980s, Americans started seeing bold sweaters with outrageous patterns on TV. You may remember seeing examples of these sweaters on “The Cosby Show” and “Christmas Vacation.” This trend slowed down, but never completely disappeared. Many believe the sweaters’ turning point came when Colin Firth donned a tacky Rudolph sweater to a Christmas Party in his role as Mark Darcy in “Bridget Jones’ Diary” in 2001.

Then, one fateful night in Vancouver, Chris Boyd and Jordan Birch created the first Christmas Sweater Party. The idea caught on and spread across Canada, into the United States and eventually, around the world. Celebrities and politicians were being photographed out on the streets in their favorite Christmas sweaters. By 2010, designers started creating collections based on the ugly ones.

Today, it seems like everyone is hosting ugly sweater parties, which has encouraged retailers to sell sweaters of their own. Of course, with the increase in options comes an increase in competition at these parties. To win the title of the ugliest sweater, you need to get creative.

Will you be participating in Ugly Sweater Day tomorrow? If so, let us know where you found your creation in the comments below.

Whether you love or hate ugly Christmas sweaters, there’s no denying that they have made their mark on the holiday season. And it has certainly become another way to celebrate during the most wonderful time of the year.

Happy Holidays from Lions Pride!

The Symbols of Easter

29 Thursday Mar 2018

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If you’ve stepped into a retail store sometime in the past few weeks, you know thatJoyful Easter rabbits, pastel-colored boxes and candy of all shapes and sizes have recently taken up residence in the seasonal aisle. We know that Easter is traditionally known as a religious holiday, have you ever wondered where these symbols got their origin?

We did, too, and after a bit of research, we think we found the answers!

Believe it or not, these characters are said to pre-date Christianity. The origin of the word, “Easter”’ stems from Eostre, the Germanic goddess of spring. Each year, on or around the 21st of March, the Celtic people would celebrate Ostara. Although it sounds like a holiday, it was seen as an opportunity to be in tune with the changing of the seasons.

Because the Spring Equinox is known as a time of rebirth, it has strong ties to fertility and sowing seeds. The symbol of the rabbit first appeared during medieval times in Europe. Hares had been known to be nocturnal most of the year, but in March when the mating season began, bunnies could be seen everywhere. In no time at all, the hare became known as a major symbol of fertility.

As for chocolate and candy, you will not be surprised to learn that we could find evidence of existence during the original Celtic celebrations. We can likely assume the abundance of candy can be rooted back to Catholic traditions. Christians typically sacrifice items they enjoy during the Lenten season such as rich food items like meat, soda or candy. On Easter Sunday, we celebrate the end of Lent by indulging in sweets.

There you have it – some of the best-known origins of Easter. What is your favorite symbol of Easter/Spring Equinox?

It indeed is a remarkable time of the year. After a long winter season, it’s amazing to see our beautiful land coming back to life. We hope you have a chance to take a moment to appreciate spring’s arrival as you celebrate with your family this weekend.

Happy Easter from Lions Pride!

It’s Girl Scout Cookie Season!

22 Thursday Feb 2018

Posted by in Lions Camp, News, Special Events

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We have to be honest. The winter weather has gotten us down this week. Although the temperatures have remained fair, the icy roads are making us feel as though the warm, summer months will arrive. That’s when we were to see a timely announcement – the return of Girl Scout Cookie Weekend.

Last month, Girl Scouts of the USA kicked off their 101st year of selling cookies. The Girl Scout Cookie Program is one of the most successful programs in any organization. Over 1 million Girls Scouts participate in selling cookies to benefit their troop. Scouts can show off their G.I.R.L. (Go-Getter, Innovator, Risk-Taker, Leader) Spirit by selling cookies to help power amazing experiences all year-round. All of the net revenue stays within the local area to benefit the girls and their councils.

This year, troops were happy to welcome the return of the Girl Scout S’mores Cookie, the most popular flavor to launch in the past century. In 2017, GSUSA debuted two versions of the cookie – a crème covered crispy graham cracker cookie dipped in chocolate, and a chocolate marshmallow filled graham cracker sandwich cookie decorated with designs honoring Girl Scouts’ Outdoor Badges.

With the new cookie arrival, bakers have gotten creative in the kitchen by whipping up new delicious recipes. We’re excited to try the S’more Campfire Cupcakes, created by Little Brownie Bakers, which will help put us in the camping spirit – even if there is still snow on the ground. Of course, we’ve also craving old favorites like Thin Mints and Tagalongs.

Now to answer a question that is often asked this time of year, “How I can purchase Girl Scout Cookies if I don’t know any Girl Scouts?” This year, it’s easier than ever to stock up on your favorite do-good cookie. Simply visit the Cookie Locator to find a location near you. As we mentioned, this weekend (February 23 – 25) is National Girl Scout Cookie Weekend, so troops all over the country are hosting exciting events. If you’d rather than stay in, there is also an online portal available.

No matter how you choose to enjoy your cookies, dipping them in a glass of milk or using them as a key ingredient in a new recipe, you can rest easy knowing that your purchase is helping young girls develop lifetime, leadership skills.

Have you or will you purchase Girl Scouts some time in 2018? What cookie is your favorite? The Pride Staff favors the Thin Mints.

Happy Girl Scout Cookie Weekend!

Get Ready for the 2018 Winter Olympics

08 Thursday Feb 2018

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Looking for a way to display your American spirit? Tune in to the 2018 Winter Olympics, airing on NBC tomorrow night.Ice Skates

It seems like only yesterday we were cheering on our teams at the 2016 Summer Games in Rio. This year, the games are taking place in Pyeongchang, South Korea, a city approximately 80 miles east of Seoul.

To get ready for the action, we’ve compiled a list of fun facts to commemorate this year’s competition:

  • The first Winter Games took place in Chamonix, France, in 1924. The 2018 Games will mark the 23rd Winter Olympics.
  • Four new events have been added to the competition. This year, viewers will be able to watch big air snowboarding, freestyle skiing, mass start speed skating and mixed doubles curling.
  • Lee Suk-Woo designed the 2018 medals that feature lively diagonal lines and 3D consonants from the Korean alphabet. The design was inspired by tree trunks that were made to symbolize the “the work that has gone into developing Korean culture and the Games themselves.”
  • The 2018 Mascot is a white tiger named Soohorang. The tiger is an animal that is highly regarded in Korean mythology and culture; the white tiger is seen as a symbol of trust, strength and protection.

    Here at Lions Pride, we like seeing Soohorang as the mascot, but Pride the Lion from the 2012 Summer Olympics will always hold a special place in our hearts!

South Korea may be 15 hours ahead of Chicago, but Americans will be able to stream all of the events in real time. The first figure skating competition will begin tonight at 6 pm.

Will you be watching the 2018 Winter Olympics? Which event do you enjoy watching most?

Enjoy the winter games!

Predicting the Weather Before Punxsutawney Phil

01 Thursday Feb 2018

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Here we are again – another month has come and gone. Now that we’ve flipped themarmot in the alps calendar to the month of February, we are anxiously awaiting Phil’s prediction about the upcoming spring, but is there a way to beat him to the punch?

Yes! We think we know of a shortcut. Before we had Punxatawney Phil, we had the Old Farmer’s Almanac, which may be a better resource than our furry friend – but we’ll let you be the judge.

Robert B. Thomas started the Old Farmer’s Almanac back in 1792. The Almanac records and predicts astronomical events such as the rising and setting and setting of the sun, tides, weather and other unusual phenomena. According to the almanac, Thomas would use a complex series of natural cycles to devise a secret weather forecasting formula. (Today, the formula is housed in a locked black box in the Almanac offices in Dublin, New Hampshire.)

Traditionally, the almanac was said to be 80 percent accurate, but in press materials, the almanac claimed to 96.3% accuracy for its 2016 predictions of a “bleak and biting winter.” Meteorologists and weather experts don’t buy it, but we think it’s worth a look!

The 2018 Long Range Weather Report for the Midwest says,

Winter will be warmer than normal, with the coldest periods in late November, early and late December, early January, and early February. Precipitation and snowfall will be below normal, with the snowiest periods in mid- to late December and early to mid-February. April and May will be cooler than normal, with near-normal precipitation. 

From the sound of this report, we don’t anticipate an early spring, although the weather report doesn’t discuss March in any detail. Here at Lions Pride, we are guessing that Punxsutawney Phil will not see his shadow tomorrow, but we certainly hope that we’re wrong. Do you think we’ll see six more weeks of winter?

Wishing all of us an early spring!

Holiday Travel Tips from Lions Pride

14 Thursday Dec 2017

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We are quickly making our way through the month, which has left asking where Winter Drivignon earth has December gone? Hopefully, by now, you have started checking items off your unusually long checklist – wrapping presents, sending cards and baking treats. Soon, it will be time to develop your travel schedule.

Whether you are traveling near or far this holiday season, we want you to arrive at your destination safely so we have compiled a list of driving tips to keep in mind as you make your holiday travel plans:

  • Add basic maintenance to your list

According to AAA, you should give yourself at least one week to check the tire pressure, replace wiper blades, fill up your windshield washer fluid and test the battery. Don’t hit the road until you are confident that your vehicle is ready for the trip!

  • Check the extended weather forecast

We don’t have to tell you that Wisconsin weather is unpredictable. Remember just a few weeks ago when we saw nearly 60-degree temps early in the week followed by single digits within 48 hours? Be sure you know what kind of whether you will be driving through and plan to leave early, if necessary.

  • Get comfortable with winter driving techniques

Although we don’t currently have fresh snow on the ground, nearby roads may still be more slippery than usual. Increase your regular following distance from one car length to a couple. Also, avoid skids by accelerating slowly.

  • Bring along your emergency road kit

AAA suggests adding an emergency road kit to your luggage. Not sure what to pack? Look back at one of our past blog posts to get reacquainted with the idea. Remember, tis the season to be prepared.

  • Take breaks

Would you believe the average Christmas long-distance trip is 275 miles in the United States? If you are traveling long distance by car, don’t forget to include breaks. Breaking up your trip will keep you more alert when you’re on the road.

  • Above all, don’t forget to be patient

We know that you’re anxious to reach your destination to be with loved ones, but remember that everyone wants you to get there in one piece. Exercise caution when out on the road.

Safe travels from Lions Pride!

Give the Gift of Blood This January

05 Thursday Jan 2017

Posted by in Giving Tips, News, Special Events

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When you think about the month of January, american-red-cross-lions-clubyou likely think about one or more of the following topics: staying warm on cold winter days, making (and possibly breaking!) New Year’s Resolutions or celebrating the life of civil rights leader, Martin Luther King, Jr., on the anniversary of his birth. While these are all common themes, you may have missed another important occasion – National Blood Donor Month.

Since 1970, the first month of the year has been designated as National Volunteer Blood Donor Month, and for a good reason. As you know, January is a bit of an unusual month, it is a time for getting back into normal routines after holiday celebrations and hibernating in our warm, cozy homes, which is why blood donors are typically in short supply. The American Red Cross has taken advantage of this opportunity by encouraging adults of all ages to consider becoming blood donors.

Every two seconds, someone in the United States is in need of blood. Just imagine in the time you have taken to read this post, 15 people will have needed the gift of blood. Unfortunately, although an estimated 38 percent of the country’s population is eligible to give blood at any given time, less than 10 percent actually donate. Who’s ready to change that number?

If you’ve never donated blood before you might think the process for getting started may be difficult, but becoming a donor is quite simple. Just follow this easy 5-step process:

  1. Find a blood drive.
    Blood drives are happening all over the state, but you can find one nearest to you by visiting the American Red Cross Blood Drive Locator.
  2. Register
    On the day of your blood donation, you will register with staff and volunteers to review your eligibility and donation information. Be sure to bring a government-issued ID. Other photo IDs are also accepted.
  3. Review medical history
    After checking in, you will receive a mini physical from a registered technician who will take your temperature, pulse, blood pressure and hemoglobin level. He or she will also ask you about travel and medical history in a private setting.
  4. Donate
    Next, it’s time for the blood donation. Estimated time is between 8 and 10 minutes.
  5. Enjoy refreshments
    After donating, you will have the chance to raise your blood sugar back up to normal settings with a snack or beverage. (Who isn’t always looking for a valid excuse to enjoy a cookie?)

And that’s all there is to it! Most donors will be in and out in under an hour, and their donation can help up to 3 people. How often can you make a difference like that?

This January, think about taking some time out of your busy schedule to become a blood donor. Although it may be a simple task, it’s one that definitely should never be discounted. Thank you so much for your consideration, and for the gift of blood.

Happy National Blood Donor Month from Lions Pride!

 

 

The Groundhog’s Spring Prediction

04 Thursday Feb 2016

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Can you believe that Groundhog’s Day has already come and gone? Is it just us or did we not see as much media coverage on the famous furry meteorologist as we usually do? We guess it was because most of us were all buried in snow!

If you missed the outcome – Punxsutawney Phil did not see his shadow, so we are on track for an early spring. Don’t believe ole Phil? You might be surprised to learn that the findings were independently verified by Canada’s very own groundhog, Shubenacadie Sam, who also did not a shadow.

Whether or not you believe the shadow reader’s weather report, it may be comforting to learn that the first official day of spring is only 44 days away. That doesn’t seem to long away, right? We don’t think so because Christmas Eve was only 42 days ago and that feels like only yesterday!

While we are as excited about spring and summer (the first day of Wisconsin Lions Camp is 128 days away to continue with our countdown theme), we don’t want to wish our days away. The truth of the matter is there are plenty of things to like about this time of year, even if you wouldn’t consider yourself a winter lover. Think about it, in the wintertime, we get to see the sunrise, bundle up with a warm cup of soup and see the world in a different perspective. What is your favorite part about winter?

Remember, without winter, we wouldn’t appreciate the other three seasons that Wisconsin has to offer. From all of us at Lions Pride, don’t forget to enjoy the last 44 days of winter!

Wisconsin Winter Driving Tips

28 Thursday Jan 2016

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Wisconsin Winter RoadBrrr… it has certainly been a wintery week here in Central Wisconsin (although our weather hardly compares to that of the East Coast). As we all know heavy snowfall isn’t exactly surprising in January, but we thought it would be a nice opportunity for a winter driving refresher course. Follow the tips below from AAA to drive safely all winter long:

  • Keep your gas tank, at least half full, to keep your gas line from freezing.
  • Make sure your tires are properly inflated to produce the best traction, miles per gallon, durability and safety.
  • Avoid using cruise control when driving on icy or snowy roads.
  • Drive slowly and carefully. Everything takes longer on snow-covered roads including accelerating, braking and turning. Leave a little earlier than you normally would to avoid feeling rushed.
  • Watch weather reports before leaving on a long-distance trip. Push back any trips if bad weather is expected, but if you must leave, be sure to tell others the route you are taking, your destination and expected arrival time.
  • Pack a “survival kit” with essential items such as a blanket, a shovel, snack food, first aid kit and more. Hopefully, you will never need to use it, but if you do, you will be happy to have one available.

It may be the end of January, but we haven’t seen the end of winter just yet! Lions Pride wishes you a safe remainder of the Wisconsin winter driving season.

Fun Ways to Celebrate the Christmas Season

10 Thursday Dec 2015

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There may not be snow on the ground (at least here in Central Wisconsin), but the many upcoming events tell us that Christmas is on its way. Take a look at just a few of the several holiday events happening both near and far this weekend:

December 11

There’s no better way to celebrate the season with the sound of big band music. The Brew City Big Band will be performing the music of Frank Sinatra, in honor of his 100th birthday, at the John Michael Kohler Arts Center. Enjoy drink specials, small plates and ballroom dancing from 6 pm to 10 pm. Tickets are $14 or $12 for students and Center Members.

Downtown Reedsburg

Experience the magic of Christmas coming to life in the windows of participating businesses in Downtown Reedsburg. The 2015 “Living Windows” theme is A-Z Christmas. Each window will reflect all things Christmas-related using only the letter chosen by the business. Come to this free event from 6 pm to 8 pm and take a horse drawn wagon ride, sing with carolers and enjoy hot drinks and treats.

Santa must be the world’s greatest scientist if science and magic are one in the same. Join DoktorKaboom at the Ruth A. Knoll Theatre in Hartford, as he tries to discover how Santa Claus makes reindeer fly, decides who makes the Naughty and Nice List and manages to get down a chimney. In an attempt to one-up Ole Kris Kringle, DoktorKaboom experiments with a hovercraft, creates and exothermic reaction and explores the chemical makeup of snow. Ticket prices range from $5 to $14 and the show begins at 5:30 pm.

December 12

Visit the Stoughton Opera House on Saturday night and listen to the music of Four Guyz in Dinner Jackets. The premiere Milwaukee doo-wop group promises to deliver high-velocity holiday cheer as they perform your favorite seasonal favorites in a delightful four-part harmony. Individual tickets are $20.

Enjoy various fun winter activities with a town synonymous with the Red-Nosed Reindeer at Rudolph’s Country Christmas. All-day activities will leave you with a true holiday feeling. The fun starts at 9 am. View the day’s events.

Be entertained by the Nicolet Players as they perform the holiday class, “A Christmas Carol”. Back by popular event, this fun show will remind you of the true meaning of the holidays. Enjoy the inspiring message as told by Scrooge, Tiny Tim and three persuasive ghosts. The show will be happening all weekend long. Ticket prices are $9 for the general public and $7 for students and seniors.

Month-Long Events

A Franks Christmas

Throughout the month of December, “Let Me Be Frank” Productions will present “A Frank’s Christmas: The Christmas Schooner”. Enjoy a night of fun and frolic as you appreciate the outstanding voices and hilarious story about the holidays. In November 2013, our organization was honored to be selected to receive proceeds from the show. We can’t say enough about these talented performers!

How do you plan to spend the days leading up to Christmas? From all of us here at Lions Pride, we hope you continue to enjoy the holiday season. There’s still lots of time to consider making a year-end contribution, your gifts are truly making a difference.