Good Triumphs Over Evil at Rock Center

"Where are all the Dunkin' Donuts?" Catherine asked when she was visiting. It's a good question. Being a Rhode Islander who doesn't know where the five closest Dunkin' Donuts locations are at all times is akin to being a claustrophobe who hasn't taken note of the emergency exits upon entering a crowded nightlub. Without this knowledge, you're just not ever going to be able to truly let go and relax.

Before I moved apartments, I used to take the subway to Rockefeller Center frequently for my morning commute. One day I spied the tell tale orange and maroon detailing and I knew they were putting in a Dunkie's. Joy! But then I switched train lines and I haven't been back to see it open.

This morning I came through Rock Center on a whim and there was the DD in all her glory. I had to stop! Screw my self-imposed budget and sugar limitations. As I approached, my heart lept with joy. There were lines. Three long lines at each register. Next door, yes, next door, at Krispy Kreme*, one lone man waited for service. We are not even going to waste time discussing this fool.

Kitty-corner to the new Dunkie's was a Starbucks featuring two shorter lines. Now, just days before I myself had stood in a Starbucks line. But today, proudly standind in the DD line, I developed a keen hatred for the people in that other line. I began to see the two set of customers as opposite sides of the socio-economic divide, and I was firmly convinced I was on the right side. It was regional, it was classist, and dare I say religious? Yes, I was sure we at Dunkie's were firmly Catholic while the people across the way were Episcopal/Lutheran. Or does it break down as Believers and Atheists? Will the atheists please write in and tell me where they buy their donuts?

Anyway, the point is that business at DD was lapping Starbucks, my small iced coffee and a donut was much cheaper than my usual Starbucks morning grab, and this morning I felt that much closer to my fellow New Yorkers.

*I do enjoy an orignial Krispy Kreme donut, hot off the conveyer belt only, but you pretty much have to accept said donut as a grease bullet about to shoot directly through your system. Coupling one of these delicious laxatives with coffee would actually prove fatal, I believe. Not ideal commuter fare. All other Krispy Kreme donuts, including flavor of the month, which seem so promising, suck hardcore.