Christy Brown is a relative newcomer to Lake County. She moved here two years ago from Southern California when she became owner — along with husband David — of Susie Q’s Donuts on Main St. in Lakeport. Although career had taken Brown to the southern part of the state, she was raised in the north — Chico and Sacramento, to be precise. In October Brown will celebrate two years frying doughnuts at Susie Q’s.
1. Are the cops always stopping in?
The police question? I can’t believe it [laughs]. They do occasionally, but not very often. That’s all in the movies.
2. Why do people love doughnut shops so much?
I think for us it’s our personalities and the friendliness to everyone who comes through the door.
3. Which doughnuts do people like best?
That’s hard to say. We have such a variety.
4. Doesn’t that make it tough to decide what to make?
It does make it difficult. Probably the standard glazed is the most popular — stick with the basics and you’re good to go. We always make more glazed than anything else.
5. What’s the craziest?
That we’ve made? I’d have to say — I call it the Reese’s Pie. It’s a Reese’s peanut butter cup, basically with a doughnut wrapped around it. It’s one of my favorites, but we don’t make it every day. Saturday only. It’s our crazy doughnut day.
6. How far can you take it?
You can’t be afraid. I was afraid of putting fresh fruit on doughnuts, but we did a strawberry shortcake doughnut a week ago, slicing up fresh strawberries. I guess it really is endless.
7. Was it scary opening a business?
Honestly, my brother is the original owner. He gave my husband and I the opportunity to buy it, so I didn’t have to open something new. But taking over? Yes, it’s very stressful. The fence gets higher every day — coming up with things to bring people in. It gets quiet in the afternoons, but we’re going to start doing lunch again.
8. What do you think of Lake County so far?
I really like Lake County. I like the small town feel. The people have been great, the schools are good — I’m happy. For my husband, it’s growing on him. He’s a city guy.
9. What has been the most interesting thing you’ve found?
I don’t know. I don’t really go out and do anything.
10. So you’re favorite doughnut is …
I’m very simple: white cake, chocolate icing. Oh, with a tall glass of milk.
