By Michael Turton
Shirley Maloney, a Beacon resident who worked for 30 years as a custodian and bus driver for the Haldane Central School District, opened Dawg-Gone-Good two years ago near Breakneck Ridge. Weather permitting, her stand is open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Did you have a lemonade stand when you were a kid?
I did, in Buchanan. It was quite successful. I dreamed of owning a hot dog stand for a long time. I started out here with just an umbrella, but thanks to my husband it blossomed into this trailer. He wanted to keep me working!
Why did you get into this after working at Haldane for so long?
I hurt my shoulder at work. They wanted me to go back, but I could no longer move furniture, clean and everything. When I retire we’ll move to Old Forge. We like to snowmobile there.
How would you describe your customers?
They’re smart people who want to see something new. They come up from New York City mainly, but you’d be surprised. I get customers from all over the world — France, Australia, Germany, Ireland. And truckers. I also get kids I knew from Haldane, although many of them aren’t kids anymore. I want to put photos of my regulars in the trailer.
Are you worried about Breakneck closing at the end of the year?
I’m moving to Little Stony Point during the closure. When Breakneck opens, I’m coming back here. So I may end up with two spots. I’m growing!
What’s the secret to a great hot dog?
I’m told it’s a “dirty dog” — a hot dog and a beer. But I don’t think I could do that legally! Personally I like sauerkraut and onions; it’s the all-American hot dog. One customer asked me for mayonnaise. Can you imagine mayonnaise on a hot dog? I carry mayonnaise now, though.
You deserve it. Congrats.
I didn’t know Shirley until I did this interview with her. She was a delight to speak with. Stop by and have a ‘dog!
Congrats, Shirley.
Great article. I have known Shirley for at least 50 years. I am so happy for her. Life can bring you through a lot of ups and downs but Shirley is one that never let anything get to her. She is an awesome person and anyone who meets her will love and remember her for years to come. Love you my friend. So happy for you.