Since early spring of 2011, a light-hearted legal debate has been going on in the state of Maine over the unlikeliest of causes: The Whoopie Pie.  Fortunately, both the Boston Globe and freelance writer, Nancy Griffin, have been following developments every step of the way.

On April 20, 2011, a bill was introduced to Maine’s state legislature that designates the Whoopie Pie as Maine’s Official State Treat.  In a noteworthy display of bipartisanism, the bill deems Blueberry Pie the official state dessert.

Whoopies, however, don’t share the same wholesome and clear-cut image that the blueberry pie has historically maintained.  The Whoopie Pie, which is actually made by sandwiching frosting between two cakes, has a much more controversial past than one would assume a confection could claim.  Though Maine has adopted the treat as its own, there remains a dedicated opposition in Pennsylvania, who feels that the state of Maine is stealing their invention. Compounding the contention, Massachusetts has also asserted ownership of the illusive indulgence.  The Whoopie Pie’s origin, however, has yet to be decisively proven.

Regardless of its genuine home state, there is no doubt that the Whoopie Pie is deeply rooted in Maine’s cultural history.  Recipes have been handed down over generations and the delicious concoction of cake and frosting can be found in bakeries all across “Vacationland,” just waiting to be shared and enjoyed.  Treat yourself to our Maine Coast: Purely Acadia vacation, and sample all the Whoopie Pies you can eat as we take in historic lighthouses and breathtaking coastlines, burning off a few tasty calories along the way.

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 If it weren’t for a love of travel, Anne’s and Tony’s far-reaching paths would never have crossed. Fortunately for each of these devoted travelers, fate had marriage in store for them, and VBT travelers have been benefiting ever since. Anne and Tony are Trip Leaders on VBT’s six-day Maine Coast: Purely Acadia bicycling vacation, and the same personal sense of wonder and discovery that inspires them to travel helps make them well loved by our travelers.

Anne grew up in the small town of Sherman, Maine, located in northern Aroostook County, not far from the Canadian border, where a population of only a few hundred meant there were likely more moose than people year round—and certainly more cows. “I had a great childhood growing up in the country,” Anne recalls. “I was raised on a dairy farm, one of seven children.” Anne studied at the University of Maine, then, giving in to the urge to travel, went halfway around the world to continue her education at the University of Hawaii. She would stay an islander for the next 30 years.

Tony was raised in North Carolina, and while the traditions of the American South are quite different from the maple sugar candy and pine needle paths of Maine, he loved the outdoor life just as much as Anne. He learned to play sports, bicycle, swim, and fish, outdoor activities that remain an essential part of his life. “I still love anything that is related to the outdoors,” Tony said. “Paddling, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, fishing, and long-distance cycling.” He is also an accomplished stonemason. Anne’s outdoor interests are much the same, with the addition of working her organic garden—especially its robust supply of flavorful garlic and berries. If she has to be indoors, she’ll find a way to be productive and artistic braiding wool rugs.

Between the two of them, the couple’s love of adventure has brought them from Canada to New Zealand to the Virgin Islands, from Arizona to Alaska to Mississippi. “I would love to explore the entire world,” Anne said. “South America would be a great destination,” Tony added. Once their twisting paths finally intersected, the couple joined VBT, where they have been Trip Leaders for about a decade. Loving their lives in Maine as they do, Anne and Tony are radiant examples of the simple, down-to-earth way of life that Maine encourages—and it’s a glow that delights their travelers.

“When travelers from other states come to Maine for their bicycling vacation, we always recommend the local food,” Anne said. “It’s so fresh and distinctive. We recommend lobster, of course, and whoopie pies—and garlic!” Knowing which side his bread is buttered on, Tony recommends Anne’s home cooking.

“We love to share our appreciation of the beauty of the area,” Tony said. The colorful plant life, the wonderful variety of animals, the fresh air. It’s like no other place. We always want our travelers to know that this is their vacation, and we both work hard to make it memorable is every way.” Anne agrees. “This is the way life should be. In Maine, it’s a step back in time to a simpler life. I always like to have our travelers take a deep breath first and realize that they will be taken care of. Relax. Embrace the local experience, enjoy the culture and the people and all the beauty there is to enjoy by bicycle.”

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