June 2017

HOLIDAY
National
D ughnut Day
by Jane Silver
Get your taste buds ready. National
Doughnut Day is June 2 and
Americans will have an official
reason to indulge at their favorite
doughnut shops. All thanks to the
Salvation Army. It was October 19,
1917 when Salvation Army ensigns,
Helen Purviance and Margaret Sheldon,
decided to make something special
to boost the spirits of soldiers serving
overseas in World War I - doughnuts.
The Salvation Army in Chicago had a
fundraiser during the Great Depression
in 1938. This fundraiser, the “Doughnut
Event,” memorialized the “Dough
Lassies” and established what we now
celebrate as National Doughnut Day.
According to archives at
www.worldwar1.com/dbc/doughnut,
“Dough Lassies” fried from 2,500 to
9,000 doughnuts a day. Soldiers waited
in line in mud and rain for these doughy
treats.
The real doughnut fanatics ask one
more question: Is it doughnut or donut?
Although doughnut is the original and
more proper spelling, donut is an
Americanized version made popular by
establishments such as Dunkin’ Donuts
and Mister Donut.
In a world that is constantly evolving,
it is important to take a moment to
reflect on sweet opportunities ahead.
Doughnuts are a delectable treat and
with so many choices, it can be hard to
devour just one.
“Over 10 Billion Doughnuts are made
in the U.S. each year,” states an article
titled Delicious Facts about Doughnuts
at mentalfloss.com. This year will be
no different. Make sure to indulge in a
doughnut with your sweetest friends
and family on National Doughnut Day.
Certain stores in the area will be offering
enticing discounts and freebies, so
check out what is available at your
favorite doughnut shop.
50
JUNE 2017