On Saturday, 18 June, from 11:30 am -2:30 pm at The Wexford, you can enjoy a gourmet hot dog for a $10 minimum donation to the Alzheimer’s Society of BC.
After a two-year Covid-19 hiatus, The Wexford‘s biggest event of the year has returned! Myrtle’s Famous New York and Chicago-style dogs will be available at a family-friendly event raising funds for the Alzheimer’s Society of BC.
Long-time Tsawwassenites fondly remember waiting in line at Myrtle’s Famous Hotdog to savour a classic New York or Chicago-style dog right in the heart of Tsawwassen town centre. These days, Myrtle’s fans have just one chance a year to get their hands on the covet dogs. And John Meier, the owner of Myrtles Hot Dog Cart, has already heard from fans who will travel from around Metro Vancouver to for little taste of Coney Island.
John knows the details matter to the true aficionados, “A Chicago Dog is not a real Chicago Dog without Super Green Relish and Sports Peppers,” he says. “We import gallons of these from just for this event.”
He named his business in memory of his Grandma Myrtle, who was the first to introduce young John to the famous Coney Island hotdog. For five years, he served hotdogs that would make Grandma Myrtle proud. He hung up his tongs after unsuccessfully attempting to find a brick and mortar location for Myrtle’s, a disappointment for Tsawwassen hotdog lovers but a boon for residents at The Wexford, where John joined the Recreation Team.
John has fond memories of Myrtle. They were close until, at the age of 77, Myrtle died of Alzheimer’s. Her memory and the desire to see a world without Alzheimer’s were the geneses for The Wexford’s hot dog day fundraiser.
“In the three years we did this event before the pandemic, we served 1100 hotdogs and raised more than $12,000,” notes John. “It’s pretty incredible to see our community make a significant contribution to research and support for those living with Alzheimer’s.”
This year, for a $10 donation, diners can enjoy:
- Myrtle’s classic New York Dog is served with Sauerkraut, Mustard and Fried Onions.
- Myrtle’s traditional Chicago Dog includes Mustard, Super Green Relish,, Dill Pickle Spear, Tomato Wedges, Sweet Onions, Sports Peppers and Celery Salt on a Poppy Seed Bun.
- The Wexford’s South Asian Special Dog with Curried Mayo, Mango-Papaya Salsa and Haloumi Cheese
Make it a combo by adding hot and fresh seasoned Kettle Chips and a cold beverage for a minimum $15 donation.
The hotdogs are 1/4 lb, 100% beef and Thirfty’s Foods in Tsawwassen have generously donated the freshly baked buns.
“We’re pretty excited to be able to invite our neighbours and friends out to join us for a good party; it’s something we’ve missed these past two years,” says Jane Bryce, General Manager at The Wexford.
Alzheimer’s and dementia are part of her family history as well. “It’s easy to feel helpless when you’re faced with all the loss. But doing small things can help make a big difference.”
In 2019, Jane participated as a volunteer at the Hot Dog event just a few months before becoming The Wexford’s General Manager. “I’m feeling a little competitive. In 2019 they raised about $6000 and served 600 hotdogs,” she says. “I think we can do better! This is an opportunity to enjoy a fun afternoon, a delicious hot dog and make a difference for people living with Alzheimer’s.”
Guests will enjoy classic rock by Peter Dean, lead singer of the popular 70s Vancouver band Teen Angel and the Rockin’ Rebels. Family-friendly entertainer Matt Levy will delight everyone with bowling-ball jugging and hilarious antics.
“Come out, and prepare to be generous,” encourages John. “It’s a great hot dog for a great cause.”
Can’t make it out to the event? Donate directly to the Alzheimer Society of BC using this link: The Wexford Hotdog Day 2022
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