Spring Break
Lafonda Dawgs serves University community
RAISA HABERSHAM
Issue date: 7/2/09 Section: News
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Sloan is just one of many regulars of Lafonda Dawgs, the hot dog vending station located across from the main library.
The stand is operated by Walter Washington, a former University employee who started selling hot dogs on campus four years ago.
"In the beginning we wanted to do burritos with the chopped beef, pork and chicken in there, and beans and rice, but we weren't allowed to do it," Washington said. "You have to get approval from the health department. They said if it comes off the grill, it is okay."
Washington started working at The Village Summit when it first opened in 2004. But when he found out he had a hole in his lung, Washington said hot dog vending was the only thing his wife would let him do.
"I learned that as long as you are associated with the University in some form or another you'll be successful," he said. "It's basically a community within itself."
Washington said he chose to serve the University community in particular because he became used to the athletes and seeing their dedication, despite injuries.
"I like students because they come from all parts of the world," he said. "You're at the best school and should have the best food," Washington said.
Lafonda Dawgs is known for its cheap eats, but Washington said he's felt the effects of the recession. Like many other businesses, he had to increase prices to meet his bottom line.
"I normally raise prices on the game days [in the fall]," he said. "But everything went up in order to make it balanced."
He now charges $2 for hot dogs and $3 for sandwiches.
"Everyone doesn't have that available budget where you have mom or dad paying for something," he said. "I try to have it where it fits your budget"
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