Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
As I’ve surely mentioned in the past, I love writing these articles because it allows me to think about, look at and experience Maine on a daily basis. Another reason I love it is you, the readers. It’s not every day that you can be surrounded (okay, maybe just on the internet) by people who completely agree with your opinion! And, I have to believe that every single one of you agrees that Maine is the best state in the country. Whether you live here or make a yearly pilgrimage to Vacationland, I think you’ll agree with these 17 reasons why Maine is the best state in the USA.
1. We're a true gem! Maine has among the biggest zinc and copper deposits in the country. We also have tourmaline, amethyst, topaz and garnet.
Such as: Hinckley, Sabre, Back Cove, Duffy, Morse Yachts, Egg Harbor, Calvin Beal, Robert Stevens, Old Town Canoe, Downeast, LL Bean, Atlantic, and The Landing School.
In 2011, the Maine House approved a compromise that would declare the whoopie pie the state "treat," while making the blueberry pie the state’s official "dessert." Of the decision, House Speaker Robert Nutting said, "off the record, I would say a heavy load has been lifted off our plate." Apparently, Maine has jokes too!
11. Speaking of Maine "State-Things," we basically invented our state's official berry, the blueberry. Over 90% of the country's blueberry crop is grown here.
