After stepping down from Reefpoint Brew House today, John Valko issued the following letter:
Today, I offer up my sincerest apology to every person, near and far, my wife, my family, my friends, Tom Landreman, Patti Landreman, Meagan Bennett and all the employees of the restaurant that have been hurt by words I used. You all have every right to condemn the words I used. Those words should be condemned. I apologize to every person of every race, religion, creed, etc. that I have insulted, upset, ticked off or hurt because of the words I choose to use in this Facebook Post. Many are suggesting the comments were directed at people of color. Be assured that is absolutely and positively not true. I accept responsibility for these comments. I was wrong to have even let a thought such as this be put into text and I am ashamed. They were offending and terrible words. I am deeply and regrettably sorry. I am not asking anyone to forgive me for what I have done. I am offering an apology and have been soul searching for a possible explanation for the angry and hateful words used. I will be seeking counseling for whatever may have triggered this outburst or behavior.
All that aside, it still does not make those words acceptable. I understand that it is NEVER acceptable to say or even suggest or imply that another person’s life be ended no matter how angry you might be feeling and I am going to work hard in therapy, with a counselor to make sure that this never happens again. There is nothing else I can do at this point other than to say I’m sorry. I am very, very sorry.