Hey Maine, We Should Be Getting A Lot More Credit For The Donut.

Since National Doughnut Day is Friday, it seemed appropriate to remind Mainers that we're not getting nearly enough credit for doughnuts. A lot of folks certainly have heard the story of Hanson Gregory, born in Rockland in the 1800's. And his story lends itself to practicality and folklore. But that's not the whole picture.

The tall tale of Gregory's days at sea tell of a sea captain who needed a hands-free snack so he could steer the ship, are the makings of kid's books. Doughnuts were the answer, because they could fit over the hand spokes on the wheel. But more likely, was that Gregory found traditional methods up to that point to be too greasy.

So the hole in the middle became a way to cook it thoroughly, and not leave raw dough in the middle. Genius, right?! And bonus... the doughnut hole was born too! Think about how big doughnuts are in the culture of our country? They're practically woven into the fabric of our entire society.

Don't get me wrong, I'm 1000% good with that. I don't personally know anyone that obsesses over doughnuts more than I do. And the last several weeks have made that rough. I have several go-to doughnuts spots all over Maine. And with quarantine rules, most of those places have been closed.

But really, why are we not Doughnutland instead of Vacationland? I love Whoopie Pies, but why aren't doughnuts the official Maine Food? Where's the Maine Doughnut Festival? And if there is one and I don't know about it, someone please correct me immediately, so that I can be first in line next year.

All I'm saying is Maine should be getting it's due. We're smart folks, who do smart things. Such as, invent food that are eaten just about everywhere. So never be afraid to tell someone you're from Maine, and that it makes you just a little bit cooler than they are. And everybody, please... make sure I never have to live in a world without doughnuts.