OBSERVER Photo Valvo’s celebrated 100 years of business in June.

Valvo candies has been in business for 100 years. What an icon in our community.

How many kids have been rewarded there for good grades or good behavior? How many trademark boxes of Valvo candy have been sent out of town all over the country even the world to family, friends and associates?

I know that when my dad would visit his high school friend that had relocated to Texas in the ’80s, he would never show up without Weber mustard, Sahlens hot dogs and a bag of Valvo’s Sponge candy.

Growing up in Orchard Park as a kid is was a special treat when mom and dad would take us to Silver Creek for a root beer ice cream float and some chocolate to take home for later.

I had the pleasure to work with the Valvos 20 years ago so I have the inside scoop on their success. Even though I worked with Steve Valvo in transport, I was so welcomed by Joe and Betty into the family. I later came to realize I wasn’t all that special since their entire staff was treated like family — a secret to their success. Even years after leaving I was always welcomed with a hug or a hand shake when I would stop in.

My office was upstairs right above the candy plant, I could smell the chocolate when Joe was making the candy. I believe I have sampled everything he ever made at one point or another. And I learned how they get the cherries inside the chocolate. How cool is that.

I only wish that Joe Valvo could have been there for this milestone. Congratulations to three generations and 100 dedicated years.

Rick Klisiewicz is president of the Silver Creek-Hanover Community Chamber of Commerce.