In an effort to foster patriotism, a Massachusetts ice cream shop is offering free ice cream to children who can recite the Pledge of Allegiance. Eskimo King in Swansea is participating in the national “I Pledge Project,” an initiative the shop has embraced since 2010, according to local NBC affiliate WJAR.
In anticipation of the Fourth of July, Eskimo King announced that any child aged 12 and under who successfully recites the pledge will receive a complimentary ice cream treat. “My boss really wanted to get into it when they started taking the pledge out of schools. She wanted to bring patriotism back into businesses,” said Megan Medeiros, an employee with eight years at the shop.
The promotion runs every Monday night from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. throughout July. Kids who recite the pledge can choose a vanilla or chocolate twist cone topped with red, white, and blue sprinkles.
Owner Nancy Diemoz was inspired by a similar initiative at an ice cream shop in Savannah. “She loved the idea of bringing patriotism back to early age,” said Lauren Morra, a 17-year employee. Diemoz is known for her community involvement, sponsoring a local baseball team and supporting various local events.
Medeiros emphasized the importance of teaching children the pledge and its significance. “One of the reasons Nancy wanted to keep this going after all these years is because she believes in being proud to be an American,” she stated.
