By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy
Orland Park’s Continental Center may be gone, but some of the businesses that used to inhabit the strip center at 157th Street and Harlem Avenue live on.
Thai food fans who used to frequent the Bangkok Thai restaurant can still enjoy the cucumber salad, pad Thai noodles and ginger duck at the Jewel of Siam, 9216 W. 159th St. in Orland Park in the Park Hill Plaza.
Both restaurants had the same owner who says gift cards or gift certificates purchased at Bangkok Thai can be used at Jewel of Siam. The phone number is 708-349-9922. The Web site is www.jewelofsiam.com
Riddles Comedy Club, which closed a couple of years before the mall was demolished, has reopened at 5055 W. 111th St. in Alsip. Comedian Jimmy “JJ” Walker is the headliner this weekend with tickets at $15.
For show times, ticket prices and a calendar of upcoming comedians, check their Web site at www.myriddlescomedyclub.com or call 708-422-5055. The club also has a page on Facebook.
Jim’s Pro Shop relocated to 19456 S. LaGrange Road in Mokena (Comings & Goings Sept. 2, 2009).
Sabor do Brasil’s Web site says construction will begin this summer on their new location at 9613 W. 191st St. in Mokena in The Falls of Hickory Creek development.
One that won’t be coming back is Asian Ginger Bistro, a restaurant in the parking lot that is the only building still standing. Bistro has closed its doors for good.
Dunkin reopens
The Dunkin’ Donuts at 15609 S. Harlem Ave. in Orland Park has reopened after being closed for remodeling.
Relocated
RSVP has moved from 11139 W. Lincoln Highway in Frankfort to the JC Penny mall at 11337 W. Lincoln Highway in Mokena. Their Web site is www.rsvpinvites.com
Girlfriend’s Closet has moved to 22 White St. in downtown Frankfort. The Web site is www.girlfriendscloset.com
Now open
Sally Beauty Supply opened a few weeks ago at 11335 W. Lincoln Highway in Mokena in the Penny’s mall.
Deal of the weekend
South Side Cards & Collectibles, which opened in December at 11325 W. 143rd St. in Orland Park, has a 10 percent off coupon on its Web site at www.southsidecards.com The phone number is 708-873-5088.
About Me
- Bob Bong
- I have more than 40 years in the news business and have successfully evolved into an electronic journalist. Comings & Goings and Southland Savvy track news about businesses in Chicago's Southland.
Frankfort native runs for Congress in Arizona's fall GOP primary
Dr. Chris Salvino, a Frankfort native who's now a surgeon in Arizona, is running for Congress. A 1979 Lincoln-Way Central graduate, he's touting the Reagan legacy as a motivating force in his campaign.
Don Olivieri, president of Olivieri Brothers Inc. of Frankfort, was a high school classmate of Salvino. Olivieri told Sun-Times Media "he's a pretty bright guy."
Want to know more about "Dr. Chris for Congress"? Check out Salvino's campaign bio.
Don Olivieri, president of Olivieri Brothers Inc. of Frankfort, was a high school classmate of Salvino. Olivieri told Sun-Times Media "he's a pretty bright guy."
Want to know more about "Dr. Chris for Congress"? Check out Salvino's campaign bio.
Will Oak Lawn cash in big on video gambling machines in local bars?
Oak Lawn is debating whether to allow video gambling in local bars and restaurants. But will the village make any money off this?
Oak Lawn could get $540,000 in tax revenue from the machines, according to Back to Work Illinois, a civic and labor group. That assumes every business that holds one of the 48 liquor licenses in town installs the maximum five gaming machines, reports Casey Cora in his On the Lawn blog.
Says Mayor Dave Heilmann: "My personal belief is that it's not the way you should try to get revenue ... I'm just not a big fan of it."
Oak Lawn could get $540,000 in tax revenue from the machines, according to Back to Work Illinois, a civic and labor group. That assumes every business that holds one of the 48 liquor licenses in town installs the maximum five gaming machines, reports Casey Cora in his On the Lawn blog.
Says Mayor Dave Heilmann: "My personal belief is that it's not the way you should try to get revenue ... I'm just not a big fan of it."
Benefit at Gaelic Park tonight for Tinley family that lost mom in 2009 fire
Family and friends of Bianca Hedinger, a Tinley Park woman who died in a fire last year, are hosting a fundraiser to benefit the three children she’s left behind. Today's event will feature live music, food, a raffle and a cash bar. The goal is to raise money for the three young children who still have years of schooling ahead of them, said Kellie Brotan, Hedinger’s cousin.
The kids – Gavin, 7, and 6-year-old twins, McKenzie and Griffin – are being cared for by Hedinger’s parents and sister, relatives said.
Hedinger, a 31-year-old hairdresser, was killed in a fire Aug. 2 in her Tinley Park townhome. The cause of the fire remains unknown.
Bianca graduated from Oak Forest High School and was a hair dresser at Jeffrey LaMorte Salon in Orland Park. Bianca was married to Bob Hedinger, who died on on July 25, 2003.
Donations may also be made on the family's web site.
ESSENTIAL INFO
What: Dreams for the Hedinger Children
When: 6 p.m. today (Friday)
Where: Gaelic Park, 6119 W. 147th St., Oak Forest
Admission: $25
Information: www.dreamsforthehedingerchildren.org.
Chicago Press release services
The kids – Gavin, 7, and 6-year-old twins, McKenzie and Griffin – are being cared for by Hedinger’s parents and sister, relatives said.
Hedinger, a 31-year-old hairdresser, was killed in a fire Aug. 2 in her Tinley Park townhome. The cause of the fire remains unknown.
Bianca graduated from Oak Forest High School and was a hair dresser at Jeffrey LaMorte Salon in Orland Park. Bianca was married to Bob Hedinger, who died on on July 25, 2003.
Donations may also be made on the family's web site.
ESSENTIAL INFO
What: Dreams for the Hedinger Children
When: 6 p.m. today (Friday)
Where: Gaelic Park, 6119 W. 147th St., Oak Forest
Admission: $25
Information: www.dreamsforthehedingerchildren.org.
Chicago Press release services
Pawn shop now open in Tinley Park
Southland Savvy
Gold is the top item being seen at Tinley Jewelry and Loan since the pawn shop opened a few weeks ago at 7112 W. 171st St. in Tinley Park.
Indeed, while interviewing owner Rich Clousing (pictured in Tinley Jewelry) on Thursday, a woman walked in and asked Clousing to look over a handful of assorted gold items she inherited from her father.
“They might be gold fillings,” she says. “I just don’t know what they are or what they are worth.”
They get a lot of customers like that, Clousing says. “Pawn shops have been buying gold for years. We’ll still be buying gold long after the ‘We Buy Gold’ stores and TV pitchmen disappear.”
But the store in a strip center across from Jewel-Osco also has shelves filled with DVDs and electronics. A display case shows off watches, rings and other jewelry. There’s even a set of golf clubs in the corner.
“We are the first and only pawn shop in Tinley Park,” Clousing says with a hint of pride. “We provide a service people can’t get anywhere else. Will a bank give you a $200 loan until the end of the month?”
Clousing says pawn shops have traditionally offered bridge loans to people who are strapped for small amounts of money.
“Our average loan balance is $100,” Clousing says. “And I charge half of what a payday loan costs. Plus, I don’t attach myself to your bank account or report you to a credit bureau. Collateral loans are strictly between you and me.”
Clousing says loans are made for 30 days and terms can be extended. “In theory, the loan could be stretched out indefinitely. But I wouldn’t suggest that. I’m not a mortgage company.”
Tinley Jewelry is a family operation with Clousing’s wife and daughter also working in the shop.
Business has been good so far, Clousing says. “People have been stopping by to check us out. One of the first things they say is, ‘It’s so clean’.”
What about crime concerns?
“Pawn shops are fully regulated by the state,” Clousing says. “I file daily reports with the Tinley police. We videotape everything all the time,” he says pointing to cameras in the room. “Thieves just don’t come to pawn shops. They know they would get caught.”
Tinley Jewelry is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. The phone number is 708-444-2425. The Web site is Tinley Jewelry and Loan.
Mike Madigan, Bond cars, power grabs and drug tests
Every week, GuidePosts points you to the latest must-read stories of the Southland. We sort out the clutter for you.
Will Madigan shear this state rep hopeful?
Kristen McQueary, the Southland's pre-eminent political reporter, shows how Mike Madigan may add to his flock one Kelly Burke, who beat his candidate in the nasty 36th House District Democratic primary. Will she be a sheep? Meanwhile, state Rep. James Brosnahan (D-Evergreen Park) decides to step down and take a job as Blue Island's lawyer, where he hopes to "learn about municipal law."
He's no "Q" but he's pretty close
Larry Claypool, who owns The Vair Shop in Frankfort, is an expert in antique car repair. He's the guy you go to if you want to get a Bondmobile, the Renault 11 Parisian Taxi featured in 1985's "A View to a Kill", to run.
Power grabs? Secret deals?
Oak Lawn's Unity Party anything but unified, far from a party.
You know what the cup is for
Marist High School in Mount Greenwood may drug test all students.
Are you hiring?
This IT expert from Tinley Park with an MBA wants a job so bad, he'll work for free.
This boy's a lifesaver, literally
Frankfort boy, Cameron Harper, saves 5-year-old's life with CPR.
Will Madigan shear this state rep hopeful?
Kristen McQueary, the Southland's pre-eminent political reporter, shows how Mike Madigan may add to his flock one Kelly Burke, who beat his candidate in the nasty 36th House District Democratic primary. Will she be a sheep? Meanwhile, state Rep. James Brosnahan (D-Evergreen Park) decides to step down and take a job as Blue Island's lawyer, where he hopes to "learn about municipal law."
He's no "Q" but he's pretty close
Larry Claypool, who owns The Vair Shop in Frankfort, is an expert in antique car repair. He's the guy you go to if you want to get a Bondmobile, the Renault 11 Parisian Taxi featured in 1985's "A View to a Kill", to run.
Power grabs? Secret deals?
Oak Lawn's Unity Party anything but unified, far from a party.
You know what the cup is for
Marist High School in Mount Greenwood may drug test all students.
Are you hiring?
This IT expert from Tinley Park with an MBA wants a job so bad, he'll work for free.
This boy's a lifesaver, literally
Frankfort boy, Cameron Harper, saves 5-year-old's life with CPR.
Local schools will lose millions next year
The Southland's elementary and high schools, already struggling through this year's late state aid payments, layoffs, school closures and other cutbacks, would be walloped by Gov. Pat Quinn's proposed state budget. Revealed Wednesday, public schools take a beating in 2011. Education overall would see $12.34 billion, a $2.4 billion cut from this year.
"The real price tag could be anywhere from $500 to $700 less (per student)," House education committee chairman Linda Chapa LaVia told reporters.
Under the conservative figure, we'd see deep losses for local schools. Here's a sample of estimates based on 2009 School Report Card data.
Mokena District 159, which just decided to cut 15 teachers, would lose more than $1 million. Harvey 152 loses $1.25 million. Oak Lawn-Hometown 123: $1.5 million. New Lenox 122: $2.8 million. Among high school districts, Lincoln-Way HS 210 would be out $3.55 million and Community Consolidated HS 230, serving the Orland, Tinley Palos area, loses $4.35 million.
These losses would blow huge holes in school budgets, and administrators are still trying to come to grips with this year's problems.
In recent weeks, Mokena schools laid off teachers and cut extracurricular programs. And Oak Lawn-Hometown school officials decided to close a school and put seven teachers out of work. In the coming months, expect to see the number of layoffs grow significantly throughout the region.
When seeking adequate financial support for education, Southland schools have long been Illinois' bastard stepchild. With the state in arrears on payments to local districts this year, school officials have faced up to difficult cuts. But the bloodletting is far from over.
Millions of dollars in federal stimulus aid, rather than being used to expand educational opportunity, have been used to patch holes in local budgets while the state falls further behind in its obligations. And next year, there will be no federal stimulus money to prop up our classrooms.
How are schools handling this year's woes?
Just this week, in Oak Lawn, district officials decided to close Brandt School, used for years as a science center, and cut seven teachers. This will save the district $1.2 million.
Earlier this month, New Lenox District 122 imposed additional fees on students, including a $25 athletic fee on every sport played and a $100 band fee. But these efforts to pick parents' pockets are just a pittance compared to the cost of such programs and the projected shortfall in state aid.
In Mokena 159, whose bid for a tax hike was rejected by 60 percent of the voters during this severe recession, parents are angry with the school board for moving ahead with cuts. They want to negotiate to keep extracurricular activies, such as band. The editor of the local newspaper, the Mokena Messenger, is trying to foster a community conversation on the issue.
And well he should.
But the problem defies simple answers.
And the horizon grows bleaker as the enormity of the state's budget woes threatens. The state's inability to adequately finance its schools, long felt in the region's poorer communities, will now hit home in the middle-class districts of the Southland.
No one will escape this storm.
Want to know more?
The State Journal-Register in Springfield breaks down the state's projected deficit, pegged at $11.5 billion next year.
Dennis Robaugh can be reached at dennis@southlandsavvy.com
"The real price tag could be anywhere from $500 to $700 less (per student)," House education committee chairman Linda Chapa LaVia told reporters.
Under the conservative figure, we'd see deep losses for local schools. Here's a sample of estimates based on 2009 School Report Card data.
Mokena District 159, which just decided to cut 15 teachers, would lose more than $1 million. Harvey 152 loses $1.25 million. Oak Lawn-Hometown 123: $1.5 million. New Lenox 122: $2.8 million. Among high school districts, Lincoln-Way HS 210 would be out $3.55 million and Community Consolidated HS 230, serving the Orland, Tinley Palos area, loses $4.35 million.
In recent weeks, Mokena schools laid off teachers and cut extracurricular programs. And Oak Lawn-Hometown school officials decided to close a school and put seven teachers out of work. In the coming months, expect to see the number of layoffs grow significantly throughout the region.
When seeking adequate financial support for education, Southland schools have long been Illinois' bastard stepchild. With the state in arrears on payments to local districts this year, school officials have faced up to difficult cuts. But the bloodletting is far from over.
Millions of dollars in federal stimulus aid, rather than being used to expand educational opportunity, have been used to patch holes in local budgets while the state falls further behind in its obligations. And next year, there will be no federal stimulus money to prop up our classrooms.
How are schools handling this year's woes?
Just this week, in Oak Lawn, district officials decided to close Brandt School, used for years as a science center, and cut seven teachers. This will save the district $1.2 million.
Earlier this month, New Lenox District 122 imposed additional fees on students, including a $25 athletic fee on every sport played and a $100 band fee. But these efforts to pick parents' pockets are just a pittance compared to the cost of such programs and the projected shortfall in state aid.
In Mokena 159, whose bid for a tax hike was rejected by 60 percent of the voters during this severe recession, parents are angry with the school board for moving ahead with cuts. They want to negotiate to keep extracurricular activies, such as band. The editor of the local newspaper, the Mokena Messenger, is trying to foster a community conversation on the issue.
And well he should.
But the problem defies simple answers.
And the horizon grows bleaker as the enormity of the state's budget woes threatens. The state's inability to adequately finance its schools, long felt in the region's poorer communities, will now hit home in the middle-class districts of the Southland.
No one will escape this storm.
Want to know more?
The State Journal-Register in Springfield breaks down the state's projected deficit, pegged at $11.5 billion next year.
Dennis Robaugh can be reached at dennis@southlandsavvy.com
'A man of bronze' looks for work
David Blaha, a machinist by trade and a job seeker thanks to this recession, exemplifies the spirit of the Southland in his quest to find new employment. Undaunted by the challenge, comforted by the support of fellow job seekers and job clubs sponsored by the Catholic church, Blaha has faith that he'll find work.
"I think prayer helps me the most," the Orland Hills man says. "You have to believe it’s going to get better. You can't give in or give up."
In a crisp, vivid portrait, reporter Lauren FitzPatrick tells the Orland Hills man's story, one that can be told thousands of times over throughout the Southland in this time of high unemployment.
"I think prayer helps me the most," the Orland Hills man says. "You have to believe it’s going to get better. You can't give in or give up."
In a crisp, vivid portrait, reporter Lauren FitzPatrick tells the Orland Hills man's story, one that can be told thousands of times over throughout the Southland in this time of high unemployment.
In the rear of the Orland Park Public Library, lifelong machinist David Blaha reports to work each morning. The silence is a world away from the din of the machine shop that laid him off nearly two years ago. The tools of his new trade are a laptop computer and the library’s reference books that offer advice on resume writing and prepping for job interviews.Read more at the blog Termination Date.
He tinkers with applications now. He fixes appointments, all hoping to land another job as a maintenance machinist. Blaha, 53, of Orland Hills, now lives by this routine.
"Looking for a job is a full-time job," he whispered, mindful of patrons reading nearby. "That's why I get out of the house and come here." ...
Blaha adores machines. They’re in his blood. His Slavic surname translates roughly to "man of bronze." His father, a master machinist, lost his hearing working all his life in a machine shop. He can look at a part and visualize the mold that made it. And making machines work again thrills him.
"I have a natural knack with machines," he said. "Repairing something is like bringing it to life."
The Little Guys moving to Mokena
By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy
The Little Guys, an electronics store that has operated for the past 15 years at 18305 S. Halsted Ave. in Glenwood, is moving to Mokena.
The store will move in the next month to new digs in the Hickory Creek shopping center at 19031 Old LaGrange Road, Mokena officials said Monday night. The store will occupy the former site of Trendsetters College of Cosmetology, which moved to Tinley Park last May.
The Little Guys
Southland Savvy
The Little Guys, an electronics store that has operated for the past 15 years at 18305 S. Halsted Ave. in Glenwood, is moving to Mokena.
The store will move in the next month to new digs in the Hickory Creek shopping center at 19031 Old LaGrange Road, Mokena officials said Monday night. The store will occupy the former site of Trendsetters College of Cosmetology, which moved to Tinley Park last May.
The Little Guys
Auction Saturday for Midlothian cycle shop
By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy
Midlothian Sports & Cycle, 14723 S. Pulaski Road in Midlothian, closed its doors at the beginning of January, but the motorcycle shop will be open one last time when its remaining stock and inventory is put on the auction block on Saturday.
Mike Peterson Auctioneers will conduct the auction starting at 9 a.m. Saturday at the Midlothian showroom. Items up for bid include 30 motorcycles, seven personal watercraft, assorted scooters and ATVs, parts and accessories, helmets, jackets, trailers and a forklift.
For more information and photos of available items, visit www.auctionzip.com. Items can be previewed from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Friday.
Midlothian Sports was a longtime dealer for Honda, Kawasaki and Yamaha motorcycles.
Mike Peterson Auctioneers
Southland Savvy
Midlothian Sports & Cycle, 14723 S. Pulaski Road in Midlothian, closed its doors at the beginning of January, but the motorcycle shop will be open one last time when its remaining stock and inventory is put on the auction block on Saturday.
Mike Peterson Auctioneers will conduct the auction starting at 9 a.m. Saturday at the Midlothian showroom. Items up for bid include 30 motorcycles, seven personal watercraft, assorted scooters and ATVs, parts and accessories, helmets, jackets, trailers and a forklift.
For more information and photos of available items, visit www.auctionzip.com. Items can be previewed from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Friday.
Midlothian Sports was a longtime dealer for Honda, Kawasaki and Yamaha motorcycles.
Mike Peterson Auctioneers
Capri in Palos great for date night
By Chuck Ingwersen
Southland Savvy
Don't let the strip mall location fool you. Step into Capri, and you'll find a warm, welcoming restaurant that ranks among my top choices for Italian dining in the Southland. It's not hip or trendy. It's family friendly and the décor is a bit old-fashioned, but it's certainly romantic enough for a date night.
Impetuous fools that we are, my wife and I rarely make reservations when we dine out. On the half-dozen Saturday nights we've visited Capri, we've had to wait from 40 minutes to an hour for for a table. But when we're lucky enough to find a seat in the smallish bar area, we're happy to wait. A huge glass of house wine for a nifty $5.50 makes waiting a pleasure.
Generous portions at very reasonable prices begin with the wine and extend to the food at Capri. My wife and I love their bread and olive oil. The dinner salad with a house vinaigrette is unspectacular (there's a choice of soup, too). They sometimes are too generous with the house dressing, so we've learned to request it on the side. A better choice might be to forgo the dinner salads and instead split a Capri Salad, which features artichoke heart, sundried tomato, salami, prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, black olives, red balsamic vinegar, parmesan cheese and olive oil.
On our most recent visit, I thoroughly enjoyed the baked lasagna. There's no vegetarian lasagna choice on the menu, but the meat in my lasagna was on the light and mild side. The portion was large enough to provide leftovers, but I was especially hungry after an even longer wait than usual, so I cleaned my plate.
My wife was thrilled with a chicken and pasta special that featured a very tasty tomato sauce. She was full after eating less than half of the enormous portion, and we had a great leftover meal the next night.
On previous visits, we've agreed that Capri's stuffed shells are one of our favorite entrees anywhere, an irresistible mix of cheeses and sauce. I've had Capri's chicken marsala several times, and consider it to be a great choice. The menu features an extensive choice of pasta, chicken, veal and fish dishes. My wife and I aren't dessert eaters, but the chef-made tiramisu was tempting.
We've always found the wait staff to be knowledgeable and engaging, and hostess/co-owner Daniela has been genuinely friendly and accommodating. On our recent visit, my wife and I were seated next to a large and boisterous group, and we struggled to hear each other talk as we conferred on what to order. As soon as I saw another table open up, I asked Daniela if we could move, and she arranged it in seconds flat.
Capri was featured on the fifth season of the WTTW (Ch. 11) restaurant review show “Check Please.” There's a link to a clip of that show on Capri's website.
Capri Ristorante Italiano
4 out of 4 stars
12307 S. Harlem Ave.
Palos Heights
708 671-1657
Lunch: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m-2 p.m.
Dinner: Monday-Saturday, 4 p.m.
Sunday, 3 p.m.
Reservations available
Parking: Strip mall parking in front of and in the rear of the restaurant.
Southland Savvy
Don't let the strip mall location fool you. Step into Capri, and you'll find a warm, welcoming restaurant that ranks among my top choices for Italian dining in the Southland. It's not hip or trendy. It's family friendly and the décor is a bit old-fashioned, but it's certainly romantic enough for a date night.
Impetuous fools that we are, my wife and I rarely make reservations when we dine out. On the half-dozen Saturday nights we've visited Capri, we've had to wait from 40 minutes to an hour for for a table. But when we're lucky enough to find a seat in the smallish bar area, we're happy to wait. A huge glass of house wine for a nifty $5.50 makes waiting a pleasure.
On our most recent visit, I thoroughly enjoyed the baked lasagna. There's no vegetarian lasagna choice on the menu, but the meat in my lasagna was on the light and mild side. The portion was large enough to provide leftovers, but I was especially hungry after an even longer wait than usual, so I cleaned my plate.
My wife was thrilled with a chicken and pasta special that featured a very tasty tomato sauce. She was full after eating less than half of the enormous portion, and we had a great leftover meal the next night.
On previous visits, we've agreed that Capri's stuffed shells are one of our favorite entrees anywhere, an irresistible mix of cheeses and sauce. I've had Capri's chicken marsala several times, and consider it to be a great choice. The menu features an extensive choice of pasta, chicken, veal and fish dishes. My wife and I aren't dessert eaters, but the chef-made tiramisu was tempting.
We've always found the wait staff to be knowledgeable and engaging, and hostess/co-owner Daniela has been genuinely friendly and accommodating. On our recent visit, my wife and I were seated next to a large and boisterous group, and we struggled to hear each other talk as we conferred on what to order. As soon as I saw another table open up, I asked Daniela if we could move, and she arranged it in seconds flat.
Capri was featured on the fifth season of the WTTW (Ch. 11) restaurant review show “Check Please.” There's a link to a clip of that show on Capri's website.
Capri Ristorante Italiano
4 out of 4 stars
12307 S. Harlem Ave.
Palos Heights
708 671-1657
Lunch: Monday-Friday, 10 a.m-2 p.m.
Dinner: Monday-Saturday, 4 p.m.
Sunday, 3 p.m.
Reservations available
Parking: Strip mall parking in front of and in the rear of the restaurant.
Kmart to close store in Crestwood
By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy
Sears Holdings Corp. announced late Thursday that it will close the Kmart store at 13200 S. Cicero Ave. in Crestwood by May 9.
The closing is one of 13 the Hoffman Estates-based retailer is closing in Illinois, Ohio, Washington, Colorado, Indiana, Georgia, Florida and Minnesota. The other Illinois store slated for closing is in Woodstock.
The Crestwood store has about 70 employees.
Sears has been closing underperforming stores since acquiring Kmart in 2005. The retailer closed a Kmart store in Lockport about the same time last year.
Southland Savvy
Sears Holdings Corp. announced late Thursday that it will close the Kmart store at 13200 S. Cicero Ave. in Crestwood by May 9.
The closing is one of 13 the Hoffman Estates-based retailer is closing in Illinois, Ohio, Washington, Colorado, Indiana, Georgia, Florida and Minnesota. The other Illinois store slated for closing is in Woodstock.
The Crestwood store has about 70 employees.
Sears has been closing underperforming stores since acquiring Kmart in 2005. The retailer closed a Kmart store in Lockport about the same time last year.
Paczki Day is upon us
By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy
Tuesday is Shrove Tuesday or Fat Tuesday or simply the day before Ash Wednesday. It is a day commonly known throughout the Southland as Paczki Day (and according to my Polish friends pronounced Poonch-ki).It is the day to pig out on fruit- or custard-filled doughnuts in preparation for the sacrifices that will be made during Lent, which starts on Wednesday.
Bakeries across the Southland are churning out thousands of the golden-brown pastries. Many bakeries now take preorders but all will have doughnuts available starting as early as 4:30 a.m. Just be prepared to wait.
Here’s what some readers had to say:
Joan Eckel says, “The best paczkis come from Orland Bakery. Be prepared for long lines when you go to pick them up. Wish they offered them during the year, but not so.”
Bob Caraynoff likes the “New Deluxe Bakery in Chicago Ridge, next to Jack & Pat’s.”
Doris Wickert was clear on her choice, “Definitely Weber’s Bakery!”
Here are some of the favorite places for paczki in the Southland:
Southland Savvy
Tuesday is Shrove Tuesday or Fat Tuesday or simply the day before Ash Wednesday. It is a day commonly known throughout the Southland as Paczki Day (and according to my Polish friends pronounced Poonch-ki).It is the day to pig out on fruit- or custard-filled doughnuts in preparation for the sacrifices that will be made during Lent, which starts on Wednesday.
Bakeries across the Southland are churning out thousands of the golden-brown pastries. Many bakeries now take preorders but all will have doughnuts available starting as early as 4:30 a.m. Just be prepared to wait.
Here’s what some readers had to say:
Joan Eckel says, “The best paczkis come from Orland Bakery. Be prepared for long lines when you go to pick them up. Wish they offered them during the year, but not so.”
Bob Caraynoff likes the “New Deluxe Bakery in Chicago Ridge, next to Jack & Pat’s.”
Doris Wickert was clear on her choice, “Definitely Weber’s Bakery!”
Here are some of the favorite places for paczki in the Southland:
- Orland Park Bakery, 14250 S. Ravinia Ave., Orland Park. 708-349-8516. www.orlandparkbakery.com Their Web site says paczki are available during Lent.
- Weber’s Bakery, 7055 W. Archer Ave., Chicago. 773-586-1234. www.webersbakery.com
- Nielsen’s Bakery, 2053 Ridge Road, Homewood. 708-957-8899. www.nielsensbakery.com
- Irene’s Bakery, 120 E. 154th St., Harvey. 708-331-0783.
- Tuzik’s Bakery, 4955 W. 95th St., Oak Lawn. 708-422-0099.
- Wolf’s Bakery, 3241 W. 95th St., Evergreen Park. 708-422-7429.
- Pticek & Sons Bakery, 5523 S. Narrangansett Ave., Chicago. 773-385-5500. www.pticeksbakery.tripod.com
- Fleckenstein’s Bakery, 19225 S. LaGrange Road, Mokena. 708-479-5256. www.fleckensteins.com
- Steffen’s Bakery, 714 State Line Road, Calumet City. 708-251-1518. www.steffens.com
- New Deluxe Bakery, 10731 S. Ridgeland Ave., Chicago Ridge. 708-229-2718.
Hollywood Video closing up shop
By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy
Hollywood Video, whose parent company Movie Gallery filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on Feb. 2, is holding going out of business sales at its stores at 17133 S. Harlem Ave. in Tinley Park, 10268 S. Harlem Ave. in Bridgeview and 300 Ridge Road in Munster, Ind. A Movie Gallery store in Griffith, Ind., also is closing.
Hollywood Video stores in Oak Lawn, Oak Forest and Hammond, Ind., will remain open. Movie Gallery stores in New Lenox, and Hammond, Ind., also will remain open.
For more information, visit the company’s Web site at www.hollywoodvideo.com
Pierre Thomas's and Dwyane Wade's Southland glory days
When former Southland athletes sparkle on the grandest sports stages, we like to remind the masses of those stars' roots. It was exhilarating to watch Pierre Thomas help propel New Orleans to its first-ever Super Bowl title on Feb. 7. The former T.F. South standout's 16-yard catch-and-run for a touchdown was a key play in the Saints' 31-17 victory over Indianapolis. The dynamic running back rushed for 30 yards and caught six passes for 55 yards in the game.
Exactly one week later, another former Southland prep star put on a dazzling display in a history-making game. Dwyane Wade, who starred at Richards High School in Oak Lawn, was named Most Valuable Player in an NBA All-Star Game that was witnessed by a crowd of 108,713 at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas. That's the largest crowd ever to watch a basketball game (the previous record being 78,129 at Detroit's Ford Field in 2003 for a college game between Kentucky and Michigan State). Wade scored 28 points, dished out 11 assists and grabbed six rebounds in helping the Eastern Conference All-Stars edge the Western stars 141-139. Earning MVP honors in an All-Star Game is a high honor, but we're guessing it won't make Wade forget his past achievements. Those include an NBA Finals MVP award in 2006, when he lead the Miami Heat past the Dallas Mavericks, the NBA scoring championship (30.2 points per game) in 2008-2009, and an Olympic gold medal (2008).
Exactly one week later, another former Southland prep star put on a dazzling display in a history-making game. Dwyane Wade, who starred at Richards High School in Oak Lawn, was named Most Valuable Player in an NBA All-Star Game that was witnessed by a crowd of 108,713 at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas. That's the largest crowd ever to watch a basketball game (the previous record being 78,129 at Detroit's Ford Field in 2003 for a college game between Kentucky and Michigan State). Wade scored 28 points, dished out 11 assists and grabbed six rebounds in helping the Eastern Conference All-Stars edge the Western stars 141-139. Earning MVP honors in an All-Star Game is a high honor, but we're guessing it won't make Wade forget his past achievements. Those include an NBA Finals MVP award in 2006, when he lead the Miami Heat past the Dallas Mavericks, the NBA scoring championship (30.2 points per game) in 2008-2009, and an Olympic gold medal (2008).
So let's salute these two pro stars with a brief glimpse back at their high school years. The first video shows Thomas scoring his first touchdown for T.F. South, in a game against Rich Central in 2000. The second video shows Wade highlights from a 1999 state playoff game against Brother Rice.
Traverso's means a full belly for you
Southland Savvy
The Traversos say there are two great places for a family to sit down for a meal -- your dining room and theirs. That was clearly true on the evening of our meal, as we shared the room with three family gatherings, large groups spanning generations seated around tables pushed together for the occasion.
We passed by a couple of chain restaurants, parking lots full, to ease into a table at Traverso's in Orland Park. Some people don't know what they're missing.
Our meal meal kicked off, literally, with an appetizer of buffalo wings with blue cheese and ranch dressing and a few stalks of celery. Extra saucy and tangy with just a kick of hotness, these wings rival those you'll find in any hot wing specialty chain. And every piece offered plenty of meat. No shriveled up, over-fried wings here.
A crusty loaf of hot bread came to the table alongside a simple, crispy dinner salad. Traverso's doesn't skimp on the dressing, either.
For the main course, we dined on chicken parmigiana and shells with Italian sausage. The breaded chicken breast, a surprising three-quarters-of-an inch thick, was juicy through and through. Known for its hand-made pastas, Traverso's pasta and savory sausage proved all-too filling.
The Traversos have been doing this for 35 years. They know how to send you away happy and full. We didn't even have room for dessert. You could've rolled us out the front door.
We've had their pizza in the past, which features a sweet sauce and a chewy thin crust. A loaded pie and frosty mugs of beer make for a great Friday night chow down.
On Mondays, through spring. Traverso's offers two-for-one pasta dishes, and Tuesday features half-price pizza.
Traverso's
3 out of 4 stars
15601 S. Harlem Ave.
Orland Park
(708) 532-2220
Check out more Traverso's reviews via Google.
You can reach Dennis Robaugh at dennis@southlandsavvy.com
Cherish the Ladies come to Frankfort
Nimble of knee and fleet of foot, loose-limbed Irish dancers kicked up a joyful time Sunday afternoon at Lincoln-Way North High School's Performing Arts Center during the featured performance of Cherish the Ladies, the famed Irish folk music troupe. They performed as part of the school district's "Spotlight Series" before a crowd of more than 600.
Whether mournful or mirthful, to my ear Irish folk tunes have always borne the tone and tenor of the brogue itself.
There was plenty of mirth from band leader Joanie Madden throughout the show. Telling the audience one of her dancers was a Chicagoan, the young lady revealed her true roots grew from Northwest Indiana soil.
"But I live in Lincoln Park now," she added, to chuckles from the audience.
"They don't seem to be impressed by that," Madden replied.
The South Side Irish, they're a hard lot they are!
Dennis Robaugh can be reached at dennis@southlandsavvy.com
There was plenty of mirth from band leader Joanie Madden throughout the show. Telling the audience one of her dancers was a Chicagoan, the young lady revealed her true roots grew from Northwest Indiana soil.
"But I live in Lincoln Park now," she added, to chuckles from the audience.
"They don't seem to be impressed by that," Madden replied.
The South Side Irish, they're a hard lot they are!
Dennis Robaugh can be reached at dennis@southlandsavvy.com
New Red Dragon Cafe in Tinley
By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy
Red Dragon, a new restaurant that features food from China, Thailand, Korea and Japan, has opened at 16651 S. 80th Ave. in Tinley Park. Red Dragon offers delivery and carryout and will eventually add catering. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 to 9 p.m. Sundays.
For menu information, visit their web site or call (708) 532-3388.
Deal of the week
Denny's is offering free original Grand Slam breakfasts from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday. The chain made the same offer last February and served more than 2 million meals. To find the nearest Denny's, visit Denny's web site.
Praise for paczkis
Paczki Day is Feb. 16. From years past, we know that everyone has a favorite bakery for the pre-Lenten doughnuts. Share your favorites with us, just drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com or leave a comment. I'll print your favorites in time for Fat Tuesday.
Southland Savvy
Red Dragon, a new restaurant that features food from China, Thailand, Korea and Japan, has opened at 16651 S. 80th Ave. in Tinley Park. Red Dragon offers delivery and carryout and will eventually add catering. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 to 9 p.m. Sundays.
For menu information, visit their web site or call (708) 532-3388.
Deal of the week
Denny's is offering free original Grand Slam breakfasts from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday. The chain made the same offer last February and served more than 2 million meals. To find the nearest Denny's, visit Denny's web site.
Praise for paczkis
Paczki Day is Feb. 16. From years past, we know that everyone has a favorite bakery for the pre-Lenten doughnuts. Share your favorites with us, just drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com or leave a comment. I'll print your favorites in time for Fat Tuesday.
Jenny McCarthy a 'false prophet' for her views on vaccines and autism
The South Side native hasn't fired back - yet.
Motherlode in the New York Times is labeling Jenny one of the "false prophets of autism."
And Fox's Greg Gutfeld suggests "there should be a vaccination for stupidity."
Meanwhile, the managing editor of Slate's "XXfactor" takes aim at Chicago's St. Oprah and McCarthy for dispensing fraudulent medical advice.
Writes Jennifer Grose:
McCarthy is an advocate who believes that vaccines played a role in causing her son's autism, and just a few days ago the only research that showed that vaccines and autism were linked was completely discredited. Who knows how many people have not vaccinated their children and potentially caused a resurgence of disease because of McCarthy's misinformation?
Listen you little weirdo ...
By Dennis Robaugh
Southland Savvy
Brother Rice alum John C. Reilly has done so much goofy (think "Stepbrothers" and "Talladega Nights") you might forget he's not a one-note Johnny. Proof of that looks to be coming in the new film "Cyrus."
Reilly plays John, whose ex-wife is about to remarry. But he meets the woman of his dreams (Marissa Tomei) ... and her son, Cyrus, played by the wonderfully deadpan Jonah Hill. And Cyrus is a little weirdo.
Mekado Murphy, in the New York Times Art Beat column, says "Cyrus takes an insightful, funny and sometimes heartbreaking look at love and family in contemporary Los Angeles."
Check out the trailer.
Southland Savvy
Brother Rice alum John C. Reilly has done so much goofy (think "Stepbrothers" and "Talladega Nights") you might forget he's not a one-note Johnny. Proof of that looks to be coming in the new film "Cyrus."
Reilly plays John, whose ex-wife is about to remarry. But he meets the woman of his dreams (Marissa Tomei) ... and her son, Cyrus, played by the wonderfully deadpan Jonah Hill. And Cyrus is a little weirdo.
Mekado Murphy, in the New York Times Art Beat column, says "Cyrus takes an insightful, funny and sometimes heartbreaking look at love and family in contemporary Los Angeles."
Check out the trailer.
Jameson's Pub will open Thursday in Frankfort on St. Francis Road
Southland Savvy
Jameson’s Pub will open its doors at 11 a.m. Thursday at its Frankfort location, 9545 St. Francis Road. The second location for the popular Joliet watering hole has been in the works for months. It will be in the former home of Fireplace Inn across from the Frankfort Home Depot.
Eggcetera opens second location
The popular breakfast and lunch spot, Eggcetera Café, opened its new location on 191st Street in Mokena on Monday. The new location will have the same menu as the original location in downtown Mokena.
Dunkin remodeling in Orland Park
Noticed the other night that the Dunkin' Donuts at 15609 S. Harlem Ave. in Orland Park was closed with giant trash bins out in front. Don’t fret doughnut lovers, the store is being remodeled and is scheduled to reopen in March. In the meantime, Dunkin stores are still open at 80th Avenue and 171st Street in Tinley Park (no drive-through), Harlem Avenue and 183rd in Tinley Park (a drive-through) and on 159th Street in Oak Forest (with a drive-through).
Coming soon
Signs proclaiming a new Burrito Loco is coming are up at the former Surma’s restaurant at 183rd Street and 80th Avenue in Tinley Park.
Signs are also up proclaiming a new Lindy’s Chili/Gertie’s Ice Cream parlor is coming this summer to the retail center next to the CVS at 167th Street and Harlem Avenue in Tinley Park. There used to be a Lindy's/Gertie's in the Brementowne Mall at 159th Street and Oak Park Avenue.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)