Grumpy Joe: tragedy and triumph

It started with a plan, as most newlyweds make. In 2014, Benedict Fernandez III had not been offered a PBA contract. Thus, the new family had to have a backup plan, maybe try something new, like the food business, which they had to do a lot of hard research on. With a small space and secondhand furniture, the first Grumpy Joe was born in Baguio City.

- By BILL VELASCO

Sadly, the death of his spouse dealt a powerful blow against that first dream. Nevertheless, the former FEU Tamaraw team captain found resilience and strength to move forward. His most potent weapon would be the menu for his new restaurant.

"Actually, I just really based it on what people like," the former Alaska Milkman told The STAR and Basketball Universe PHL. "Number one, people in Baguio like coffee, because it's cold. And how will a restaurant make money? It has to be able to cater to breakfast, brunch, lunch, merienda, and dinner. So pizza fit. Then we added rice meals, light meals, and starters that kids like."