Community Corner

LZHS Grad is a Finalist for $1M Prize in Frito Lay Contest

Lake Zurich's Tyler Raineri's idea for Sriracha flavored chips is in grocery stores now.

 

Tyler Raineri, a 2010 LZHS graduate, has a really good chance of winning $1 million in the Lay’s Do Us a Flavor Contest. Rainier’s idea for Sriracha flavored chips was one of just three chosen from 3.8 million entries. Lay’s Sriracha chips are now on grocery store shelves, along with Lay’s Cheesy Garlic Bread, Lay’s Chicken & Waffles. 

From now until May 4, 2013, consumers can vote each day for their favorite finalist flavor on the Lay’s Facebook Page  via Twitter using the hash tag   #SaveSriracha or via text message by texting “VOTE” to 24477 (CHIPS). The winning flavor will be revealed this May and will remain on store shelves following the completion of the contest.  

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Raineri said he heard about the contest through Facebook. He said he and his college roommates often use hot sauce on the side to make everything more flavorful. Raineri attends Illinois State University and is majoring in construction management with a minor in business administration. 

“My flavor is inspired by my grandmother, she used to make homemade chips and many other meals that incorporated sriracha. I love dipping chips in the sauce and I think it adds a great kick and flavor. I am also very close with my grandma and she is really proud of this opportunity I've been granted through Frito Lay,” Raineri said. 

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Raineri said he was shocked when he learned he was a potential finalist in the contest.

“I actually thought it might have been fake at first, but two weeks later I was notified I had been placed amongst the top three out of 3.8 million entrants,” he said. 

Raineri said his friends and family are extremely happy that he has the opportunity. He said he tries not to fantasize too much about what he might do with the winnings. 

“I do have a couple not-for-profit organizations on my list for donations. One being the Jimmy V foundation and the other being The Special Olympics, as my cousin is a Special Olympics athlete. I am trying not to fantasize to much about winning and if it happens I'm sure there will be other organizations and communities that I will be more than happy to support,” he said.
Raineri added,  “I would just like to let the Lake Zurich community know that I appreciate everyone's support so much and everyone has already been such a great help. And of course to keep spreading the word to vote for Sriracha and I hope to make Lake Zurich proud!”


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