These days we tend to get lost in the hub-bub of Halloween and it is easy to forget the true meaning of October.  Sure candy, costumes, and blow up lawn features are nice but the true meaning of October lies not in Trick or Treating but in things like National Pretzel Month, National Popcorn Poppin' Month, and National Dental Hygiene Month.

I spoke to the staff at Gus's Pretzels and it seems that not only this year, but in years past, they have missed the true meaning of October and have never marked National Pretzel Month.  "Yeah, I've heard of it... let me find my boss."  While Gus himself was unable to be reached for comment.  Auntie Anne's Pretzels released a statement saying, "In honor of National Pretzel Month, Auntie Anne's is offering customers an 'any two' combo at all of it's U.S. locations."  Gus's Pretzels commented that they don't think Auntie Anne's made the holiday up, "because I have heard of it before.

At POPtions in Ladue, owner Andrew Freundlich is working with his PR people to announce their plans to commemorate National Popcorn Poppin' Month this month.  He told me, "We have some things in the works."  Although he could not release the details he said a press release could be coming out some time next week.  We'll check back.

The last special celebration being held this month is National Dental Hygiene Month.  Now, with the candy, popcorn, and pretzels this one just seemed unfair.  This year's theme is "A Healhy Smile Lasts A Lifetime."  I am guessing that's because the buzz from all the candy, popcorn, and pretzels only lasts a few hours.

In all of your celebrations, don't forget that October is also National Power Tool Battery Recycling Month, National Chili Month, and October 16th is National Feral Cat Day.  All we ask is that you don't combine your celebrations for these holidays.