Smiley brings 37 pizzerias to Indiana

Pubcaster Tavis Smiley, a native of Kokomo, Ind., is opening 37 Marco's Pizza franchises during the next five years in an effort to create some 1,000 jobs in the Indianapolis area. The outlets will be in areas that need economic development. Smiley estimated the restaurants will generate at least $1 billion into the state economy over 20 years. His first local pizzeria opened in April with a staff of about 20 workers. The second should be in operation before the end of the year.