ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – After nearly 50 years in the community, Donut Connection is under new ownership, just in time for Fat Tuesday.
Vicky and Louis LaMarche took over management of Donut Connection in January.
“This was my first job when I was turning sixteen, and then I was a preschool teacher at Holy Name for a couple years,” Vicky said. “Then the previous owner asked if we were ready to buy it.”
“She said, ‘Let’s buy a donut shop,’ and I said, ‘Alright!'” Louis said. “So here we are!”
The two are excited to continue the traditions of the 47-year-old Escanaba staple.
“It’s nice that it’s already part of the community and we’re not changing the recipes or anything, so it’s staying that donut that everyone knows and loves,” Vicky said.
However, they will be adding their own touch.
“We’re hoping to add a couple of new flavors or seasonal flavors,” said Vicky. “We just did a batch of experimental muffins, which turned out so good. We’re very excited to offer things that we haven’t done ever before.”
They also plan to reopen the dining area. For now, though, all of their focus is on Fat Tuesday.
“Making sure there’s enough filling—we’ve got to make a lot of it—getting all the boxes, preparing the dough and all that to really get ready,” Vicky explained.
It’s a new experience for Louis.
“There’s a little element of stress, given that we’re responsible for employees and making sure we have enough help to get through it and making sure it all goes smooth,” he said.
Having worked at least a baker’s dozen of Fat Tuesdays herself, Vicky says they’ve got it covered.
“We’re just very excited,” she said. “I think it helps that I’ve done so many that I know a lot of what to expect. But it is a lot of work!”
After the holiday, Vicky and Louis look forward to embracing and growing the Donut Connection community.
“When I used to be the waitress, I had my regulars come in every single day,” said Vicky. “You get to know them; you kind of become a family. It’s nice to see that friendly face with your coffee and your donut. It’s just very personable here and we’re hoping to continue that.”
Donut Connection is taking preorders for Fat Tuesday paczkis at $20.99 per dozen. Customers planning to purchase paczkis are not required to order in advance, but it is appreciated. To place an order, visit Donut Connection at 2315 1st Avenue North or call (906) 786-1050.
Donut Connection will be open for special Fat Tuesday hours on February 13, from 5:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
