The Congress Pizza is a steadfast tradition for Ishpeming residents and many more, so there's been a lot of talk about the changing of the guard as it switches ownership.
Former owner Paul Bonetti announced he was transferring the business over to partner Mike Koski as of Memorial Day weekend, and says it was simply the right timing.
"When I hired Mike I told him that someday I would sell him the business. The reason I promised to sell to him was twofold: First, I wanted Mike to treat the business like it was his and second, I would then have a buyer when the time was right to sell. Well, the time has come and we have reached an agreement on the purchase of the Congress," says Bonetti in an open letter to the Marquette County business community.
Koski has already hired some new help with the business, John Cappoferri, who has years of experience in the restaurant business.
Bonetti says he's looking forward to being retired this summer, planning to work on the house, play golf, go bike riding, and spend more time at a family camp. He adds he's not going anywhere and will stay active in community organizations and events.
"I want to thank all of you, the people who make the Congress a tradition of Ishpeming--a destination place full of memories. I have more memories, more stories and more laughs than I could have ever believed possible …" he says. "I leave with a full heart but also with the realization that I'll never truly leave … I look forward to watching Mike and the Congress start a new chapter."
Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Paul Bonetti, Congress Pizza
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