Imagine the front lines in France during World War I. Not an ideal spot for pastry making.

But inventive volunteers from the Salvation Army came up with the idea of frying doughnuts in soldiers’ helmets, as part of their duty to minister to the troops.

This marks the 100th year since those “Donut Lassies” launched the tradition. The first Friday in June has since become National Donut Day to commemorate their service.

Mark the date with a free doughnut and coffee, served at all of the state’s Salvation Army thrift stores. If you stay to shop, most items will be 25 percent off. Or visit select bakeries for your free doughnut. Buy more at Regal Bakery and a portion of the sale will go to the Salvation Army.

Oahu 7-Eleven stores are selling extra-large doughnuts for $3.99, with 20 percent of net proceeds donated.

Costumed Donut Lassies will be present at most locations for photo ops.

Additional participating locations on Oahu are Pipeline Bakeshop & Creamery in Kaimuki and KouWork shared office space in Kakaako. Hours of the giveaways vary. For details: 808ne.ws/donutspots.

— Betty Shimabukuro, Star-Advertiser

Support gold-medal KCC winners by sampling their tasty dishes

Members of the Kapiolani Community College Culinary Competition Team will stage a cooking demonstration and food sampling at Island Olive Oil Co. in Ward Centre from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday.

The team recently won the gold medal at the American Culinary Federation’s regional competition, qualifying the team to compete at the national level in Florida in July, and fundraising is underway through 808ne.ws/FundCulinary.

Team members Qihao “Sam” Tan and Christian Rae Wong, accompanied by chef-instructor Jason Peel, will create crisp pork belly with jalapeno-lime sweet-sour sauce, pomegranate caviar and Thai basil; and a honey/ginger- glazed olive oil cake made with Koroneiki, an extra-virgin Greek oil, with pistachio ice cream.

“We need to support the future chefs of Hawaii and help foster their creativity in our community,” said Angel Vardas, co-owner of Island Olive Oil, which sponsors the team. A portion of Saturday’s sales at the shop will be donated to the team.

— Erika Engle, Star-Advertiser