05/11/2025
30 years ago today (May 10th 1995), Scott Reed opened a franchise in The Factory of a little pizza place in Michigan City owned by Valentine "Val" Sliwa.
In late 2003, Scott moved the business across the street to the vacant Johnny B's building.
Eventually the M.C. location was closed, and Val was bought out.
In 2009 ownership was changed to Kevin Murray. He did *not* know what he was getting into or what he was doing. Some (many) say he still doesn't.
Regardless, customers keep coming in, bills are paid, and business keeps growing. Hundreds of thousands of dollars have found their way back into the community, and hundreds of workers have had their start over the last 3 decades.
Those workers have become teachers, doctors, senators (well, just the one that I know of), police officers, and one driver from the late 90's even became the owner of Val's. Some workers do the heavy lifting of guiding these kids, teaching them tasks and lessons they'll use for the rest of their life. I thank every manager over my almost 16 years at the helm that allowed me to take the time away from the restaurant to raise my family, take vacations, and enjoy my hobbies/other jobs that let me feel like a person. You all matter.
We couldn't have gotten here without you though, our customers. Most of you are regulars. We know your name, or if not, we at least know your order, where you like to sit, your companions, and your order nuances. Some of you even get nicknames. We're so thankful for your support, and your understanding, because, let's face it, if you're a regular, we're sure you've seen us during an "off" day (April 18 2025, yikes 😬), and brush it off as an anomaly and come back.
We're always working to be better, so if you have (gentle) suggestions, we're always receptive. Yes Susan, I like soup too. We just have to figure out how to make that work.
So anyway, thank you all. We love (most of) you, and we can't wait to notch up more years with you.
-Kevin
P.S. since I'll be in all day on Monday, come in with an old Val's pay stub or Val's shirt with ✨authentic smell✨ and I'll give you employee pricing. And the customer that brings in the oldest togo menu wins a free meal. Or just come in with stories. The best listening I ever do comes after the words "I remember one time..."
