For a second year, Myrtle’s Famous Hot Dogs and The Wexford, a Bria seniors community in Tsawwassen servde up gourmet hot dogs for an important cause—to raise funds for Alzheimer’s and dementia care.
In 2017, this community event raised over $2,400 for the Alzheimer’s Society of BC, serving more than 300 dogs crafted to exacting standards by Myrtle’s founder John Meier. This year was bigger than better with 450 franks flying off the grill in 2.5 hours, and $4244 raised!
For five years, Myrtle’s Famous Hot Dogs at Tsawwassen’s town centre was a destination for hot dog aficionados who appreciate John’s attention to culinary detail. If you were desperate for the zing of a classic New York dog made with sauerkraut and fried onions Myrtle’s was your source. If you craved a traditional Chicago dog with sports peppers and super green relish, you could get your fix at Myrtle’s.
When John’s hot dog cart came to an end, he took his ‘dream job’ with the Wexford, a role that’s as precisely crafted for him, as his dogs were for his fans; courtesy shuttle driver for residents at The Waterford and The Wexford seniors living communities.
John brings his experience as a tour guide, in-depth knowledge of the local area and history, and extreme friendliness with him on every trip. He swaps stories with residents as he chauffeurs them on errands and to medical appointments.
“Our residents love riding with John,” says Matt Jackson, manager at The Wexford. “Instead of relying on family members or taxis, John takes them where they need to go, escorts them inside, and picks them up when they’re finished.”
Almost every time he’s out with residents, John encounters Myrtle’s fans, and they all ask for the same thing — hot dogs. That what inspired Myrtle’s come back in 2017. But at its heart is something much bigger than delicious dogs.
“I started Myrtle’s because of my grandmother. She used to take me on trips to Coney Island in New York, which is world famous for its hot dogs. That’s how I got the idea to get into the business,” John reflects. “My grandmother lived with and died from Alzheimer’s when she was only 77 years-old, and I wanted to make a difference for our Bria residents who have been touched by the disease as well.”
This year’s hot dog event buzzed with fun 1950s flavour. The common parking area shared by The Wexford, Northgate Offices and City Homes featured live 50s-style musical entertainment, classic cars, and vintage fun for kids including bubble gum blowing contest, hula hooping, face painting, balloon animals and more.
Grandma Myrtle’s Chicago dog was the most requested dog of the day, but The Wexford kitchen’s custom creations: the Bacon Mac n Cheese dog, and the West Coast Po’ Boy, made with caramelized onions, popcorn shrimp, dried seaweed and chipotle mayo got their share of love too!
If you missed your chance to taste one of these delicious dogs, you’ll have to wait until The Wexford and Myrtle’s reunite again in 2019. But trust us, it’ll be worth the wait.
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