Let's Celebrate Friendship on National Teddy Bear Day!

Today is a day that represents friendship, smiles, and fun. This is because it's National Teddy Bear Day. Did you have a favorite teddy bear as a child? Do you think teddy bears help sell products? Which famous teddy bears can you name?

Teddy bears were first manufactured in Europe and America in the early 1900s. American toy bears were named Teddy, in honor of President Theodore Roosevelt, who, as the story goes, refused to shoot a small captured bear on a hunting trip in 1902. Morris Michtom, a New York toy shop owner, heard the story and gave stuffed toy bear toys the name "Teddy" in honor of Roosevelt, and the name stuck. Simultaneously in 1902, Richard Steiff of German toymaker Steiff designed the first jointed teddy bear, and in 1903, he introduced a mohair bear that was shown at the Leipzig Toy Fair, which helped launch the teddy bear as an international toy phenomenon. In the early 1900s, businesses used the teddy bear's popularity in ads for soap and food, boosting sales by associating with the toy's charm. And in 1997, Maxine Clark opened the first Build-A-Bear Workshop in Missouri in the St. Louis Galleria by pioneering a retail experience where guests design and build personalized teddy bears. 

Many teddy bears have become famous over the years, including Paddington Bear, Fozzie Bear from the Muppets, and Winnie-the-Pooh. On September 9th, we pay tribute to this amazing childhood toy, which has stood the test of time.

According to Kim Utlaut, Chief Brand Officer of Build-A-Bear, "The love for a teddy bear is truly universal. Across generations and life experiences, childhood furry friends continue to hold deep meaning well into adulthood. National Teddy Bear Day is the perfect moment to celebrate the feeling that only a furry friend can provide."

In 2025, Build-A-Bear conducted a survey of over 3,500 participants on its Instagram channel, "Despite today's increasingly tech-focused world, teddy bears remain a source of comfort, connection, and lasting memories even as we grow older. Nearly 100 percent of respondents believe teddy bears are for all ages, not just kids, and an overwhelming 92 percent still own their favorite childhood stuffed animal."

SHARE THIS: In a world where everyone seems to be larger and louder, it's very comforting to have a small, quiet companion. ~Peter Gray #NationalTeddyBearDay #Friendship #DebbieLaskeysBlog

And now, let's pivot to marketing and check out some other famous teddy bear brands:

VERMONT TEDDY BEAR COMPANY

Many companies design and sell teddy bears, but how many also provide a lifetime guarantee? Well, Vermont Teddy Bear Company not only provides a lifetime guarantee but also staffs a teddy bear hospital for repairs, also referred to as "health check-ups." According to the brand's website, "Our story started in 1981 when our founder opened a cart on Church Street in Burlington, Vermont, and began selling Teddy Bears that he made in his garage. Over 40 years later, our Bears continue to be best friends, a part of the family and beloved heirlooms. Each one of our meticulously-designed, artisan, handcrafted Bears is guaranteed for a lifetime. Vermont Teddy Bears make the perfect gifts for men, women, and children for any occasion. From our highly-skilled Stichers to our Bear Ambassadors in the Bear shop to our Marketing team — everyone here knows that a Bear is so much more than a Bear, it's a way to say 'I Love You.'"

PADDINGTON THE MUSICAL

The Guardian reported, "Marmalade bagels at the ready: London's Paddington Bear musical is to open on Broadway next spring. The phenomenally successful show, which won seven prizes at the Olivier awards, will begin performances on 30 March (2027) at the Al Hirschfeld theatre in New York, currently home to Moulin Rouge! The Musical. It's a long way from 32 Windsor Gardens, where the clumsy but lovable bear from Peru is taken in by the Brown family and (eventually) wins over the whole neighbourhood. The show, based on Michael Bond's 1958 book "A Bear Called Paddington" and the 2014 film adaptation, opened in London at the end of last year to many five-star reviews."

CARE BEARS

According to Wikipedia, "Care Bears are a group of colorful, magical bear characters created in 1981 by Elena Kucharik for American Greetings, best known for their unique belly badges and the iconic Care Bear Stare."

A special collaboration between Care Bears and Universal Products & Experiences celebrated the movie "WICKED" with the release of a special-edition collection available for a limited time at major retailers including Amazon, Target, and Walmart. The "Care Bears x Wicked 2-Pack" included "Love-a-Lot Bear" dressed as Glinda with crown and dress and "Good Luck Bear" dressed as Elphaba with hat and cape.

GUND

GUND is the oldest manufacturer of soft toys in America and one of the first companies to produce a teddy bear in the early 1900s. Here's an interesting fact about the company: In 1972, Herbert Raiffe led GUND during the 1970s by expanding product offerings to include exotic animals. His vision had GUND selling panda bears as President Richard Nixon visited China in 1972, igniting Panda-mania across the USA.

WINNIE-THE-POOH'S 100TH ANNIVERSARY

The BBC reported, "Winnie-the-Pooh was first featured in the short story "The Wrong Sort of Bees" published in the London Evening News on December 24th, 1925. The bear soon became loved world-wide, alongside Tigger and Christopher Robin." On December 22nd, 2025, The Walt Disney Company unveiled the official Winnie the Pooh 100th Anniversary logo to kick off celebrations for 2026. This milestone marked 100 years since the character's debut on December 24th, 1925. The anniversary logo features Pooh Bear alongside an iconic red balloon with "100 Years" text. As part of the year-long celebration, Winnie-the-Pooh received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame on April 11th, 2026.

SHARE THIS: Nobody can be uncheered with a balloon. ~Winnie-the-Pooh #NationalTeddyBearDay #WinniethePooh100Years #BrandStorytelling #DebbieLaskeysBlog

TEDDY BEAR THIEVES AT THE LOUVRE?

Following the surprising news of the Louvre break-in and robbery in October 2025, the Cafe Saint Honore (in Paris, France) shared a post on Instagram of two teddy bears wearing red French beret hats climbing on the Louvre Museum's triangle as if THEY were the thieves. Then in a second post, they shared a cover page of Le Parisien newspaper with the following story, "Breaking News: The Heist of the Century? Priceless pieces stolen from the world's most famous museum. The suspects were seen yesterday, their whereabouts are still unknown. Some people claim to have seen them drinking tea at Cafe Saint Honore and acting suspicious. We're sure the bears at Cafe Saint Honore could only steal smiles."

SHARE THIS: A person who loves or collects teddy bears is an ARCTOPHILE, which is derived from the Greek words for "arcto" (bear) and "phile" (lover). #FunFact #NationalTeddyBearDay #DebbieLaskeysBlog

And did you know that there are other teddy bear holidays?

(1) July 10th is Teddy Bear Picnic Day: This holiday is based on a song entitled, "The Teddy Bears' Picnic," that was first written in 1907 with lyrics added in 1930. Different artists have recorded the song including Henry Hall in 1932; Bing Crosby in 1950; and Anne Murray in 1977.

(2) October 14th is Bring Your Teddy Bear to School and Work Day: This holiday was designed so that children and adults have the opportunity to bring their much-loved cuddly friend to school or work with them.

(3) November 14th is National American Teddy Bear Day: This holiday was established in honor of American President Theodore Roosevelt and his impact on the toy that "bears" his name.

As these brands and holidays demonstrate, a teddy bear can definitely be a bestie. Happy National Teddy Bear Day!

Image Credits: Toy Insider (Care Bears) and Cafe Saint Honore (Paris, France).

Read Build-A-Bear's press release about its survey:

https://buildabear.gcs-web.com/news-releases/news-release-details/new-national-teddy-bear-day-survey-finds-92-still-have-their/

Check out the histories of some teddy bear brands:

https://corporate.steiff.com/en/steiff-teddy/history/

and

https://beargarden.co.uk/pages/history-of-steiff-bears

and

https://gund.com/pages/history

Let's Celebrate National Read a Book Day!

National Read a Book Day is observed annually on September 6th and serves as an incentive to grab a book (or open a book on an e-reader) and read. I often share book recommendations and reviews here on my blog, however, today is especially important for bibliophiles.

According to NationalTodayCalendar, "Whether you prefer to escape into the world of fiction or learn something new, celebrate with books. Visit the library or the local bookstore. Pick up a new book or read an old favorite. Explore the past in history books and memoirs or dive into poetry. Read aloud to a child or give them a book to read on their own. Share the stories you're reading using #NationalReadABookDay to post on social media."

Last year on National Read a Book Day, I shared a review of "The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau" by one of my favorite authors, Kristin Harmel. Since I've read many of her books, it should not be a surprise that I recently read her newest book, MEET ME IN PARIS, so I'll share that book today.

Unlike most of Harmel's books, MEET ME IN PARIS is a contemporary novel rather than historical fiction. The story revolves around a group of Americans whose lives connect during some spring days in Paris. Music, art, health, and family are all aspects of the story (including my favorite museum, the Musée d'Orsay), however, the most important character of the story was the city of Paris!

Here were some memorable quotes from the book:

"That's the thing about chapters...they're only a part of your story."

"That's what life was, a constant opportunity for reinvention, for change, for transformation."

"When we're children, we think the moments will be endless. But in the end, they slip through our fingers before we know how much they mean."

SHARE THIS: That's the thing about chapters...they're only a part of your story. ~Kristin Harmel #MeetMeInParis #NationalReadABookDay #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Here are some interesting facts about September 6th that you can learn from books:

Louisa Ann Swain was the first woman in the United States to vote in a general election after the repeal of women's suffrage in New Jersey in 1807. She cast her ballot on September 6, 1870, in Laramie, Wyoming. Congress recognized September 6, 2008, as Louisa Swain Day via House Concurrent Resolution 378.

Cal Ripken Jr. played his historic 2,131st consecutive game on September 6, 1995, breaking Lou Gehrig's record of 2,130 straight games at Oriole Park at Camden Yards in Baltimore, Maryland.

Italian operatic lyric tenor Luciano Pavarotti, often considered one of the finest bel canto opera singers of the 20th century, died at age 71 on September 6, 2007.

What book are you reading today? Chime in and share!

SHARE THIS: If you give a person a book, you give him the world. ~Kristin Harmel #TheParisDaughter #NationalReadABookDay #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Image Credit: Kristin Harmel via Amazon.

Read last year's National Read a Book Day post (September 2026):

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2025/09/national-read-book-day-is-special-day.html

Read a brief review of THE PARIS DAUGHTER by Kristin Harmel (September 2025):

https://www.debbielaskeysblog.com/2025/09/introducing-fallbacktoreadingseries2025.html

Let's Celebrate Paperback Books Today!

Are you a bibliophile, a lover or collector of books? If yes, then today is special, because back in 1935, reading was changed forever. On this date in 1935, Penguin published the world's first paperback books in England to provide affordable access to books.

The history of paperbacks dates back to the 17th century when Germany and France published stories and papers in paperback-like format. However, the concept really took off once publisher Allen Lane began commercializing the idea in the 20th century.

According to a Smithsonian Magazine article from 2010 entitled, "How the Paperback Novel Changed Popular Literature," author Anne Trubek wrote, "In 1935, Allen Lane, chairman of British publishing house Bodley Head, spent a weekend in the country with Agatha Christie. Bodley Head, like many other publishers, was faring poorly during the Depression, and Lane worried how to keep the business afloat. While he was at the Exeter station waiting for his train back to London, he browsed shops looking for something to read. He struck out. All he could find were trendy magazines. And then he had a "Eureka!" moment: What if quality books were available at places like train stations and sold for reasonable prices — the price of a pack of cigarettes, say?" Lane returned to Bodley Head and proposed a new imprint to do just that. Bodley Head did not want to finance his endeavor, so Lane used his own capital. He called his new publishing house Penguin."

According to company legend, Lane's secretary suggested "Penguin" as a "dignified, but flippant" name for the new company. Edward Young, a 21-year-old office junior, was immediately dispatched to the London Zoo to sketch the bird in every possible pose for the rest of the day. Several iterations followed over the years, and today, the black-and-white penguin on a bright orange background symbolizes intellectual freedom, accessibility, and openness to knowledge.

The article further explained, "Lane then acquired the rights to ten reprints of serious literary titles and went knocking on non-bookstore doors. When Woolworth's placed an order for 63,500 copies, Lane realized he had a viable financial model. His paperbacks were cheap. They cost two and a half pence, the same as ten cigarettes. Volume was key to profitability; Penguin had to sell 17,000 copies of each book to break even. The first ten Penguin titles, including "The Mysterious Affair at Styles" by Agatha Christie, "A Farewell to Arms" by Ernest Hemingway and "The Unpleasantness at the Bellona Club" by Dorothy Sayers, were wildly successful, and after just one year in existence, Penguin had sold over three million copies."

From a marketing perspective, Penguin's graphic design played a large part in the company's success. Unlike other publishers, whose covers emphasized the title and author of a book, Penguin emphasized the brand. Book covers contained simple, clean fonts, color-coding (orange for fiction, dark blue for biography) and a cute, recognizable bird.

And in March 2026, Fast Company reported, "The brand just unveiled a delightful series of hand-drawn illustrations as a brand refresh, named the "Playful Penguins," which show the penguin jumping, strutting, dancing, and doing a whole lot of reading. The illustrations will show up everywhere across the Penguin Random House's global markets, from seasonal campaigns to social initiatives and point-of-sale displays. They're designed to bring some added joy and movement to the brand as it approaches its centennial (in 2035)."

MORE FACTS ABOUT PAPERBACKS:

(1) In 1937, Penguin expanded, adding a non-fiction imprint called Pelican.

(2) During World War II, Penguins, which were small enough to be stowed in the pocket of a uniform, were carried by soldiers.

(3) In 1940, Lane launched an imprint for youngsters, Puffin Picture Books.

(4) The United States adopted the Penguin model in 1938 with the creation of Pocket Books. The first Pocket Book was "The Good Earth" by Pearl S. Buck and was sold in Macy's. Today, Macy's offers an extensive selection of paperback books both online and in select stores in partnership with Barnes & Noble.

(5) In 1979, the sales of paperback books outpaced hardcover books; and in 1996, sales of mass-market paperback books reached over $1 billion, but then sales began to fall.

(6) In 1966, British singing group The Beatles recorded and released a song written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney called "Paperback Writer." The single went to number one in the United States, United Kingdom, Ireland, West Germany, Australia, New Zealand, and Norway. The first lines of the song were:

"Paperback writer, paperback writer.

Dear Sir or Madam will you read my book,

It took me years to write will you take a look,

Based on a novel by a man named Lear,

And I need a job,

So I want to be a paperback writer,

Paperback writer."

According to Mixam, "Paperbacks have flexible, soft covers made from slightly thicker paper or cardstock than the inner pages. Since paperbacks don't use the rigid boards found in hardcovers, this flexibility allows them to bend slightly without damaging the book's structure. The cover's flexibility also contributes to cost effectiveness. The paperback format suits books intended for wide distribution or casual consumption. They're a standard format for novels where portability and affordability are essential. Textbooks also benefit from this format, especially if they're updated frequently, and cost efficiency and ease of replacement are important. Paperbacks can help you reach more readers at a lower cost, making them an excellent choice for large-scale printing projects."

By contrast, according to Mixam, "Hardcover books consist of sturdier, more durable materials than paperbacks. Their defining feature is their rigid cover, typically made from cardboard or paperboard wrapped around printed paper. This rigid cover gives hardcovers their renowned longevity, allowing them to withstand the test of time and heavy use. Some hardcover books come with a dust jacket. This removable outer cover protects the book and offers additional space for design elements, author information, and promotional content. A dust jacket adds another layer of protection to the book's cover and enhances its visual appeal. Hardcovers suit books meant to last a long time or hold special significance. Similarly, books that will be cherished - such as collectable editions, art books, or gift items - are well-suited to the hardcover format. Hardcover books also appeal to limited edition runs or photography books, where the book's presentation is as important as its content."

The Smithsonian Magazine reported in mid-February 2026, "At the end of 2025, ReaderLink, one of the largest paperback distributors decided to stop supporting the format, which has been making reading accessible to the masses since the 1930s. It is the end of an era for the paperback books that reached generations of readers with their affordable prices, convenient size, and reliable ubiquity...The mass market format has been credited for helping launch the careers of Kurt Vonnegut and Stephen King...But e-books cut into the paperback books' margins, and sales declined."

According to Anne Paulson, store manager and bookseller at Cherry Street Books in Alexandra, Minnesota, said that the decline of the paperback doesn't surprise her but does make her sad, "It may take new books out of people's hands who could maybe not otherwise afford a new book. It's just one more nail in the coffin of removing reading and literacy from our radar."

Today, digital (e-book) readers and audio books have joined hardcover and paperback books as reading options. According to SFBookReviews, "The ability to purchase, download, and read a book almost instantly is a difficult one to resist. In addition, the capability to literally carry your library of 1000's of books in your hand or even pocket is quite incredible. As the distribution of the first printing presses led to a reading revolution for the masses, the distribution of the e-book has the potential to help educate those in third world countries and provide access for a huge range of literature...However, the whole tactile and sensory experience that the paper format offers is one that is with us to stay, and it's really up to us as the consumer as to just what ratio of electronic to traditional format will ultimately work."

How do you prefer to read your books?

SHARE THIS: Paperback books were designed to provide affordable access to books. #PaperbackBookDay #ReadingIsMySuperPower #DebbieLaskeysBlog

SHARE THIS: A bibliophile is a lover of books, while a lectiophile is a lover of reading. The distinction is due to the object versus the activity. #FunFact #PaperbackBookDay #ReadingIsMySuperPower #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Image Credits: Penguin Random House.

Read: How the Paperback Novel Changed Popular Literature:

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/how-the-paperback-novel-changed-popular-literature-11893941/

Read: Have We Reached the Final Days of the Mass-Market Paperback?

https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/have-we-reached-the-final-days-of-the-mass-market-paperback-180988139/

Read: The Evolution of the Book:

https://sfbook.com/the-evolution-of-the-book.htm

Read: Paperback versus Hardcover:

https://mixam.com/blog/education/paperback-vs-hardcover

Read the full lyrics of "Paperback Writer" by The Beatles:

https://www.thebeatles.com/paperback-writer

Let's Celebrate International Castle Day!

Celebrated annually on July 19th, International Castle Day was established in 2015 by the Association of European Royal Residences based in France to highlight the cultural importance, architectural beauty, and heritage of castles and palaces worldwide and to encourage their preservation and appreciation.

As an architecture, history, and travel fan, I've visited Hearst Castle in California; Iolani Palace in Hawaii (the only royal residence on U.S. soil); the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C.; Chambord, Chenonceau, Fontainbleau, the Louvre, and Mont-Saint-Michel in France; Kensington Palace and the Tower of London in England; the Hermitage in St. Petersburg, Russia; and, of course, some Disney castles (Sleeping Beauty Castle at Disneyland in California, Cinderella Castle at the Magic Kingdom in Florida, and Le Château de la Belle au Bois Dormant at Disneyland Paris in France).

Hold onto the castle line of thought for a moment while I pose the following question: How often have you seen something and thought, "LEGO should make a toy of that?" Sure, LEGO has countless toys for kids, but did you know that the international toy brand also has toy sets designed for the adult market?

According to LEGO's adult welcome page, "Spend quality time with LEGO sets designed specifically for adults. From wonders of the world to movie magic, intrepid space exploration to pop culture icons, luxury cars to architectural masterpieces, there’s a LEGO set waiting for you. So unplug, unbox, and unwind...Maybe you built LEGO sets as a child and never stopped, maybe you took a break from the bricks but have rediscovered the joy, or maybe you began your LEGO hobby as an adult. There is no right or wrong way to enjoy LEGO sets as an adult, the main thing is that you do."

And here's something you probably didn't know also existed: LEGO adult parties. "The joy of LEGO building isn’t just in the construction – it’s about the laughter, conversation, and magic moments along the way. So, gather your loved ones, pour out those bricks, and let’s get this party started! Whether you’re planning a lively night with friends, a cozy night in with a special someone, or a family reunion, LEGO sets are here to save the day!"

And now, returning to today's significance...one of the most interesting LEGO sets can be found in LEGO's architecture category: Bavaria's Neuschwanstein Castle. According to the product specs, "Dive into your passion for iconic landmarks with this collectible 3,455-piece LEGO Architecture Neuschwanstein Castle building set for adults. The build is full of surprises from the exterior spires, turrets, courtyard, staircases, and gabled roofs to the small interior builds. Plus, the foliage of the surrounding trees can be changed to depict either a summer or fall landscape. This 3,455-piece architecture display model of Neuschwanstein Castle measures over 12 in. (31 cm) high, 18 in. (46 cm) wide and 8 in. (20 cm) deep."

So how will you celebrate International Castle Day today? If you visit a castle, share your photos and memories on social media with today's hashtag #InternationalCastleDay!

SHARE THIS: The allure of a castle lies not in its walls but in the dreams it inspires. ~Anonymous #InternationalCastleDay #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Image Credits: LEGO and Hotel Hechten.

LEGO's Neuschwanstein Castle product page:

https://www.lego.com/en-us/product/neuschwanstein-castle-21063

Read more about Neuschwanstein Castle:

https://www.britannica.com/topic/Neuschwanstein-Castle

Hawaii's Iolani Palace, the Only Royal Palace in the United States:

https://www.seattletimes.com/life/travel/oahu-the-iolani-americas-only-royal-palace/

Happy National Donut Day!

Celebrated annually on the first Friday of June (and on June 5th this year), this day honors the "Donut Lassies" of the Salvation Army who served doughnuts to soldiers during World War I. Many local shops and national chains offer free doughnuts or special deals today to celebrate. And some locations, such as the USS Midway Museum, hold special events.

Here's a quick refresher about the word's spelling. According to Merriam-Webster, "Doughnut is the original, traditional spelling. It is the preferred choice in the United Kingdom, Canada, and international English. Major authorities like the Merriam-Webster dictionary and the AP Stylebook list this as the primary or preferred spelling. Embraced by Benjamin Franklin and Noah Webster, "Donut" is the phonetic, Americanized variation. It was popularized by brands like Dunkin' Donuts in the mid-20th century, is considered more casual, and is widely accepted in the United States."

Let's take a stroll back through history and then pivot to look at today's celebrations from a marketing lens.

According to NationaDayCalendar.com, "In 1917, a group of women, often referred to as Lassie's, were sent to the front lines in France by the Salvation Army. They were directed to set up field bases near the front lines to try to boost morale among troops. The makeshift "huts" were a place where soldiers could stock up on necessities and get a small break from the fighting. Little did they know that the Salvation Army Lassie's would not only boost morale, but make history in the creation of one of the most celebrated food holidays.

The women who were working at the field bases wanted to do more than simply re-stocking troop supplies. They began making home-cooked food for the troops in hopes that the food would give them a small taste of home. During this time, the Lassies began handing out a sweet baked treat that would become known as the Salvation Army Doughnut. According to the story, doughnuts were cooked inside the helmets of the troops, dubbing them as "doughboys," which was a standard term used for donut. The Donut Lassies are said to be the reason we have National Doughnut Day today!"

And now, here are eight brands with publicized celebrations today:

DUNKIN'

According to the brand's website, "Since opening in 1950 in Quincy, Massachusetts, Dunkin' has become a go-to destination for donuts and coffee across the country. Today, as America’s largest donut and coffee brand, Dunkin' serves more than 2 billion donuts annually. At Dunkin', the love for donuts runs deep – and National Donut Day is the perfect time to go all in. As the holiday returns on Friday, June 5, the brand is delivering even more ways for donut lovers to celebrate.

Ahead of the big day, Dunkin' is kicking off the week with a limited-time Dunkin' tote bag giveaway – available with the purchase of a half dozen donuts or more on Monday, June 1st at participating Dunkin' locations, while supplies last. On National Donut Day, guests can enjoy a free donut with any beverage purchase for the 16th year in a row, alongside the return of a sweet collaboration with customizable lifestyle and accessories brand Stoney Clover Lane."

Following last year's sold-out collaboration, Dunkin' and Stoney Clover Lane created a new limited-edition collection for this year inspired by Dunkin' staples: a Dunkin' Iced Coffee Crossbody Bag ($98), a Dunkin' Donuts Small Pouch ($98), a Dunkin' Donut Pouch ($88), a Dunkin' Donuts Micro Pouch ($68), a collection of playful bag charms ($18 each), and collectible patch set ($58).

KRISPY KREME

MSN reported, "Get a free doughnut of your choice. Any doughnut, all day. No purchase necessary. This is valid for in-store customers only (not valid on online orders)."

VOODOO DOUGHNUT

MSN reported, "Fan club members will get an email for a free doughnut. Valid at all locations except Universal CityWalk and airport locations."

RANDY'S DONUTS

MSN reported, "Any guest can get a free doughnut (from the classic category) from 6 am to noon. All locations are participating except Resorts World in Las Vegas and the LAX airport."

7-ELEVEN

National Convenience and Fuel Retailing reported, "On June 5th, 7-Eleven will offer 7Rewards and Speedy Rewards members classic glazed donuts for 50 cents each, available at participating 7-Eleven, Speedway and Stripes stores nationwide. The single-day deal is for loyalty members only. The company said 7-Select Mini Donut packs are also available for $1 in honor of the celebration. The yellow cake donuts are coated in chocolate, cinnamon sugar, toasted coconut crunch or powdered sugar."

According to Brandon Brown, senior vice president, fresh foods and beverages at 7-Eleven Inc., "Sometimes the best celebrations are the simplest ones, like a fresh donut and a great deal. National Donut Day gives customers a fun reason to treat themselves, and these offers make every coffee run, snack stop, or midday break a little sweeter."

SHIPLEY DO-NUTS

MSN reported, "Shipley Do-Nuts is celebrating all month. Shipley Rewards members can get a free glazed donut with purchase every Friday in June (valid June 5th, 12th, 19th, and 26th from 5 am to close)."

DUCK DONUTS

MSN reported, "Get a free cinnamon sugar doughnut when you visit Duck Donuts, in-shop only. There's no purchase necessary to get the freebie."

STAN'S DONUTS CHICAGO

According to the brand's website, on June 5th, EVERYONE gets a free chocolate-dipped donut with any purchase, but some will get extra lucky. Bite into it, and if your donut is pink, you get FREE donuts for a year! If it's green, you get free donuts for the rest of your LIFE! Every location will have ONE winner of donuts for a year."

SHARE THIS: The optimist sees the donut, the pessimist sees the hole. ~Oscar Wilde #NationalDonutDay #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Are you craving a donut yet? Well, now you know where to go to celebrate. Happy Donut Day!

Image Credits: Stan's Donuts Chicago. 

Have a cup to celebrate National Tea Day!

Founded by The Tea Group in 2016, National Tea Day's 2026 celebration also coincides with what would have been the 100th birthday celebration for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Red Rock Tea House explains, "Tea is one of the most beloved beverages worldwide, cherished for its incredible variety of flavors, aromas, and health benefits. From the serene tea gardens of China and Japan to the lively tea culture of Britain and India, tea has played a significant role in history, tradition, and daily life for centuries. It is more than just a drink — it is a ritual, a moment of relaxation, and a way to connect with different cultures. Whether you enjoy the simplicity of loose-leaf teas, the convenience of tea bags, or the artistry of hand-crafted blends, the world of tea is vast and diverse. Every cup tells a story, reflecting the climate, soil, and craftsmanship that go into producing each unique variety."

According to There Is a Day for That, "Tea is a common household beverage both nationally and internationally. Thousands of people drink tea daily, allowing them to choose from many different delicious varieties and flavors such as earl grey, English breakfast, matcha, chai, and green tea, among many more. Established in 2016, National Tea Day was created on Queen Elizabeth II’s birthday as a way to enjoy a classic beverage and pretend you're royalty. Afternoon Tea was introduced in Britain in the early 1840s to satisfy hunger between meals before dinner. Today, it is more of an occasional indulgence, or occurs to celebrate an event such as a birthday among friends. Just like coffee, it can be made to your liking, either hot or cold, with sugar or another sweetener, and even a milk or creamer of your choice."

What are some famous tea brands?

(1) Twinings

(2) The Republic of Tea

(3) Harney & Sons

(4) Taylors of Harrogate

(5) Herbs & Kettles (Atlanta, Georgia)

Check out these fun facts about tea (with gratitude to Days of the Year):

(1) In Morocco, serving mint tea symbolizes hospitality and friendship. Hosts prepare and pour tea from a height into small glasses, creating a frothy top, a gesture of warmth and respect to guests.

(2) Contrary to common belief, "high tea" refers to a substantial evening meal for the working class, not an afternoon tea. It includes hearty dishes, highlighting Britain's diverse tea traditions.

(3) Tea was introduced to Russia in the 17th century through trade with China. It became a staple with unique traditions like brewing tea in samovars, reflecting Russian culture.

(4) The British tradition of adding milk to tea began in the 18th century. This practice cooled the tea and protected delicate porcelain cups from cracking due to heat.

(5) In Turkey, tea is central to social interactions. Offering tea signifies hospitality and is a customary gesture to welcome guests, fostering community bonds.

(6) Japan's tea ceremony, known as "chanoyu," emphasizes harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. This ritual reflects Zen Buddhist principles and showcases Japan’s appreciation for simplicity and mindfulness.

(7) In 1908, American merchant Thomas Sullivan sent tea samples in silk bags. Customers mistakenly dipped them whole, leading to the unintended invention of tea bags.

So, take the time today to indulge with a hot, steaming cup of your favorite flavor of tea!

Image Credit: Teaching English with Cambridge.

Read The Power of Tea: 100 Health and Wellness Benefits:

https://theteahouseonlosrios.com/blogs/news/the-power-of-tea-100-health-and-wellness-benefits

See all types of tea from The Republic of Tea:

https://www.republicoftea.com/collections/shop-all-tea-types

Learn about the 100 types of tea plus how to choose the right tea from Red Rock Tea House:

https://www.redrockteahouse.com/blogs/articles/100-types-of-tea

Personal Branding and #WinstonChurchillDay

Did you know that Winston Churchill was an honorary American citizen?

On this date in 1963, President John F. Kennedy presided over a ceremony that granted honorary citizenship for Winston Churchill, who was well-known for his leadership as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom during World War II. However, he could trace his roots back to America by way of Brooklyn, New York, because his mother, Jennie Jerome, was American.

While Churchill was not present at the ceremony (he and his wife watched on television from England), his son and grandson attended. Churchill had been granted citizenship in eight individual states as a prelude, including Hawaii, Maryland, Nebraska, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and West Virginia.

The ceremony in 1963 was the first time in U.S. history that an honorary citizenship was granted. Since then, only seven other honorary citizenships have been granted.

Here was the conclusion to Churchill's statement as he reflected upon his honorary American citizenship: "Our past is the key to our future, which I firmly trust and believe will be no less fertile and glorious. Let no man underrate our energies, our potentialities and our abiding power for good."

Did you know that an honorary American citizenship is only symbolic? The title does not grant the right to vote, work, or live in the United States - and honorary U.S. citizenship does not come with a U.S. passport.

Since honorary American citizenship can only be granted by a proclamation issued by the U.S. President or by an Act of Congress, the person must demonstrate the highest admiration of the American people. During the ceremony in 1963, President Kennedy recalled how, during World War II, Churchill, "mobilized the English language and sent it into battle," and described him as "the most honored and honorable man to walk the stage of human history in the time in which we live."

So, from a personal branding perspective, Winston Churchill was truly one-of-a-kind. According to Forbes, "A personal brand is the acknowledged public perception of an individual. Personal branding is what you say about yourself based on your experience, expertise, core values, and key differentiators. Developing personal branding helps you be seen as an industry authority, grow and build trust with your audience, and ultimately make an impact as a mission-driven thought leader."

SHARE THIS: Winston Churchill is only one of 8 honorary U.S. citizens. Know the others? #WinstonChurchillDay #PersonalBranding #DebbieLaskeysBlog

Image Credit: Heralds of the Gospel.

Read Winston Churchill's Way with Words from NPR:

https://www.npr.org/2012/07/14/156720829/winston-churchills-way-with-words

Visit the Churchill War Rooms in England:

https://www.iwm.org.uk/visits/churchill-war-rooms

Learn about all 8 honorary U.S. citizens:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Honorary_citizen_of_the_United_States

Let’s Celebrate National Internet Day!

How many hours a day do you spend on the Internet? If you’re like most people, it’s a lot. So, since today is National Internet Day, let’s celebrate the history of something that has become so important to our daily lives, the Internet.

According to InternetDay.com, “On October 29th, we celebrate the most important invention in human history. While the internet may not  have been possible without a million other monumental inventions that came before it, it’s hard to find any other invention that has had such a monumental impact on mankind. That’s why, since October 29, 2005, we’ve been celebrating the anniversary of the first internet transmission. It is a chance to celebrate the people who helped build the internet, while also giving us a moment to reflect on all the ways that it has changed our lives forever.

The Internet, defined as a remote connection between two computers, was first achieved on October 29, 1969 (just a few months after Neil Armstrong took the first steps on the moon). In the glow of a green monochrome screen deep in the bowels of the computer science department at UCLA, a young graduate student picked up his phone and called the computer lab at Stanford. He was preparing to send the first message over an Internet connection. The men on either end of the phone are Charley Kline and Bill Duvall.

While not as famous as Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldren, Leonard Kleinrock, Charley Kline and Bill Duvall were the key players in the first Internet connection. Working on the ARPANET (Advanced Research Projects Agency Network), a network funded by the United States Defense Department, that connected four independent  terminals installed at ULCA, Stanford, the University of California at Santa Barbara, and the University of Utah, Charley Kline attempted to send login information from UCLA to Bill Duvall at Stanford.

It’s impossible to calculate the effect of the Internet on society as a whole. That’s like trying to figure out how the telephone and printing press changed the world. We started with chat rooms, email programs, and some basic websites and wound up in the midst of a cultural revolution.”

The marketing arena has also changed exponentially with the advent of the Internet – with ads on websites, cobranding campaigns, and more. In addition, consider all the social media channels that have impacted marketing and advertising in the last couple of decades.

How will you celebrate the Internet today?

Image Credit: The Hans India.

To read more about ARPANET:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ARPANET# 

To read about the Information Superhighway:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Information_superhighway 

To read about an important woman in the history of the Internet:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elizabeth_J._Feinler