September 2004 The Megaphone Page 3
Happy Birthday !
by
Nancy Sumner
Mr. Happy Burger Will Be 40 Years Old Sept. 8, 2004
Excerpts of the following article taken from Leader-Tribune Review, Sept. 13, 1999
Mr. Happy Burger, a second generation family owned business in Elwood, celebrated its 35th Anniversary Sept. 8.
Built and owned by Ed and Della Kane, and managed by their son, Brian, the restaurant has been a favorite in the community since its beginning.
According to Della, "We are the only restaurant in Elwood that has stayed in business for 35 years under the same ownership."
Prior to opening the business in 1964, Ed and Della resided in West Lafayette, where Ed was a salesman for National Cash Register. Ed was acquainted with the owner of Mr. Happy Burger in Logansport, who in turn knew the Elwood resident who suggested that Elwood would be a good place to open a restaurant.
"It was a good move," stated Ed. "We built the restaurant and opened in early September," said Della. "The menu has changed but you'll still receive the friendly service and delicious food."
According to Della, when the business opened, hamburgers, french fries and milk shakes were 15 cents each. "Another unique feature of the business, is that we have always made sandwiches to order," stated Della. "We never make them ahead, which is a little different than a lot of restaurants."
"We've always enjoyed the high school kids who have worked for us through the years," said Della. "Many times we'll see someone on the street and they'll say, 'Oh, I used to work for you at Mr. Happy Burger.'"
"Another unique feature of the business was that when it first opened the girls wore black uniforms with short shirts and small white hats," said Della.
Even though Ed and Della are semi-retired, Ed goes to the restaurant every morning, however, Brian works many hours a week at the business as manager.
Sincerely,
Nancy Sumner '66
Elwood