DONUT LOVERS, CELEBRATE JUNE 8 TOO!

Chicago Stan's Donuts mugs and hat. Taken by PKSenagore June 1, 2018. All rights reserved.

YESTERDAY WAS NATIONAL DONUT DAY AND EARNED RUNS MISSED THE OPPORTUNITY to celebrate it with the rest of the country!  No matter, when an event is important we can prolong the mood of appreciation several days, or longer.  This is my long-held belief about birthdays; they are meant to be enjoyed for at least a week.
 
According to a Wikipedia entry, the history of Donut Day involves one of my most favorite cities. In Chicago in 1938, the first Friday in June was proclaimed as the annual date to honor the Salvation Army’s provision of donuts to American soldiers in France in World War I.  The event was created to raise funds to assist those suffering in the Great Depression. It is still a fundraising event there and in other cities.
 
In 1917, the Salvation Army determined that canteens/social centers staffed by SA “Doughnut Girls” could support US enlisted men by serving donuts and providing assistance with communicating home and mending clothes. The soldiers loved the home-grown TLC so the tradition was continued in World War II.
 
There is additional fascinating history if you care to read more.  The Wikipedia site seems to be where other articles derive their facts.
 
Delicious donuts happen to be, historically, the reward I have given myself for braving the cold snowy conditions of Chicago’s Lakefront Trail along Lake Michigan in the winter on trips to the city.  Not only is it difficult to get out in the weather, it’s an effort to bring/pack all the clothes needed to survive the experience.  Jacket, under-layer shirts, hat and earmuffs, mittens, gater, and under-tights and barrier pants.  There’s not much room for other apparel items in the suitcase.  
 
After my workout, I head to a Stan’s Donuts on the corner of N. Fairbanks Ct. and E. Erie Street. This location is in a building that is part of Northwestern University’s downtown medical complex.  Although it could be a tough decision, I usually order a powdered-sugar or chocolate-covered cake donut, or both.
 
The hot coffee + donut totally hits the spot after a tough session.  I now have a pair of mugs to use at home and a hat to wear on summer days.
 
I did not know until researching this post of the cool background behind the national day and the caring efforts of the Salvation Army to support overseas troops. It seems that after enduring harsh conditions, as trivial as a winter run or serious as wartime service, a delicious donut and cup of coffee can bolster spirits.  
 
If you missed the official National Donut Day there’s still time to celebrate. Otherwise, June 8 is International Jelly-Filled Donut Day and September 14 is National Cream-Filled Donut Day.
 
RUN & MOVE HAPPY!
 
NOTE: Stan’s is sponsoring a 5K on August 11, 2018 at Chicago’s Montrose Harbor, to benefit the Greater Chicago Food Depository. I wish I could participate; will check my schedule. And plan to have a donut afterward!
 
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Doughnut_Day
 
http://www.stansdonutschicago.com
 
http://donut5k.com