Chuck Wheelers

June 14, 2006

Gary Vajda
Chuck Wheeler’s
3514 Village Court
Gary, IN 46408

Dear Gary,

About the time that people were watching Gunsmoke on television and going to see The Bridge on the River Kwai at the movies, a bookkeeper at US Steel had the idea to start a hot dog push cart business in Gary, Indiana. That idea evolved into an eight by eight room at the Village shopping center that has lasted nearly 50 years now. He offered only two sandwiches. Vienna Beef hot dogs and Polish sausages; which have led to becoming an icon in northwest Indiana and spawned a second location in the Merrillville area.

One of Chuck’s key employees who grew up in the business was Gary Vajda (pronounced Vita), who has since opened the second location and purchased the first to continue and grow the Chuck Wheeler tradition of great fast food and exceptional service. Gary has since perpetuated the business and grown its legendary status, as well.

Vienna Beef would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Chuck Wheelers and welcome this Chicago / Northwest Indiana icon to the Vienna Beef Hot Dog Hall of Fame. Best wishes and congratulations for continued success from all of us at Vienna Beef.