Foodies flock to Chick-fil-A opening
Free meal promotion prompts people to camp out for event
Trending
Marvina Bolton would make a good spokeswoman for Chick-fil-A.
"This is my 57th Chick-fil-A. I enjoy the impeccable customer service and the consistency and quality of the food. I love the brand whether a traditional sandwich or chicken strips. Everything is always good and fresh and served with a smile," said Bolton of Altoona.
"I enjoy the excitement and camaraderie the event provides. It is a chance to hang out with family and meet some new people," Bolton added.
Bolton was among those attending the First 100 Party Wednesday afternoon at Chick-fil-A's new location at 106 Sierra Drive.
A tradition going back more than 13 years, Chick-fil-A's First 100 celebration is the chain's signature grand opening event.
The first 100 eligible adults in line when the doors open at 6 a.m. today will receive a card loaded with a one-year supply of free Chick-fil-A meals (52 meals with each consisting of a Chick-fil-A chicken sandwich, medium waffle potato fries and a medium beverage).
The value of the card is between $300 and $400, said Natalie Giddens, a Chick-fil-A spokeswoman.
The crowd was much smaller than expected partly because of a thunderstorm that moved through the area about 6 a.m. Wednesday when the event officially began. Only 12 had been registered by 1:30 p.m.
"The weather really impacted the numbers. We normally have between 30 and 80 waiting outside when we start at 6 a.m. We brought them inside at 6:05 a.m. When we have thunder and lightning, we bring the people inside. If we have snow, rain and chilly temperatures, they stay outside. Sometimes we hit 100 at 1 or 2 in the morning," Giddens said.
However, those waiting outside Wednesday afternoon were having a good time.
Evan Kephart and Lisa Hazenbaker arrived about 5:30 a.m.
"I am here for the free chicken, 52 free meals is a good deal and is worth a day of just sitting around. I am a big fan of Chick-fil-A. It is a cool experience; how many times can you camp out for free chicken for a year? This is the best thing. Life is too boring; you need to spice it up," said Kephart of Altoona.
"I am here for the experience. It is awesome food. I travel a lot for work, and when I see a Chick-fil-A, I stop," said Hazenbaker of Duncansville. "Some people think it is crazy. I think it is fun. How many times do you get to do something like this?"
Tricia Klein and Geraldine Davis were also among those planning to claim a free card.
"I am here for the 52 free meals. I just like Chick-fil- A. I moved here five years ago from Virginia Beach. There are a lot of Chick-fil-As down there," said Klein of Bellwood.
"I wanted to come out and have some fun. Chick-fil-A is so good, the food and service is so good. I wouldn't have it any other way. I have a tent. I don't think this is crazy," said Davis of Altoona.
Franchise owner Mike Burgmeier, an Altoona native, is thrilled to open the new restaurant.
"I feel extremely excited. This is a lifelong goal. This is an accomplishment not only for me but for Altoona and the community. We have had tremendous support from the community, neighbors and local businesses," Burgmeier said.
The Altoona Chick-fil-A offers a full-service menu including breakfast until 10:30 a.m. and will be open Monday through Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Like all Chick-fil-A locations, it will be closed on Sunday to provide a day of rest and time with family for team members.
Mirror Staff Writer Walt Frank is at 946-7467.