May

1-31: National Hot Dog Month. For many, sporting and outdoor events just wouldn’t be complete without hot dogs. Think walk-a-thons, company picnics, college reunions, and summer festivals. Imprinted grill covers, tools and aprons are some promotional tie-ins. Don’t forget mustard, ketchup and napkins.

1: International Joke Day. Joke contests, with prizes, can lighten the mood at any company, organization or learning institution. Comedy clubs and other social venues can sponsor open-mike nights. Reward all participants but save the good prizes – imprinted cameras, leather travel bags, gift baskets, for the winners.

4: Independence Day. Forth of July 2000 festivities are bound to be spectacular, with many featuring other events like concerts and (naturally) fireworks. Locales everywhere can use imprinted balloons, seat cushions, beach or other portable chairs, blankets, picnic baskets/accessories, binoculars, citronella candles and flashlights as mementos.

9-15: National Laundry Workers’ Week. Imagine hospitals, hotels, and similar places without them. Appropriate establishments can hold thank-you luncheons, and manufacturers/sellers of washing machines and detergents can institute tie-ins, perhaps with a contest for employees to nominate their favorite worker or company.

15: Shark Awareness Day. True, Jaws was a long time ago and somewhat exaggerated, but that isn’t to say shark attacks are a possibility swimmers in certain areas should ignore. An excellent opportunity for any beach community, not to mention makers/ retailers/renters of swimwear, as well as SCUBA, deep-sea fishing, snorkeling, and other water gear to educate people about what to watch out for or do should the improbable occur.

20: First Moon Landing. Apollo 11 astronauts, landed on the moon on this day in 1969 – 31 years ago! Space designs are available on many products, including mugs, desk sculptures, mobiles, mousepads, watches and clocks. There’s even an inflatable space shuttle.

24: Amelia Earhart: Birthday. The first woman aviator to fly the Atlantic solo and also solo across the Pacific (Hawaii to California). Women’s advocacy groups, community centers and schools can celebrate her achievements. One idea: toy airplanes with an inspirational message. Born 1898

30: Henry Ford: Birthday. Founder of Ford Motor Co., creator of the assembly line, and industrial innovator. Car dealers, leasing companies, repair and oil-change shops, tire dealers, auto painting specialists and supply stores can participate. Imprintable products to use in, on and around cars include organizers, cup holders, sun visors, steering wheel covers and tire gauges. Born 1863.