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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.

Charleyhorse Closing Sunday in Tinley

The Charleyhorse in Tinley Park will close Sunday night. Photo by Tinley Park Patch.
By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy

The Charleyhorse sports pub at 9501 W. 171st St. in Tinley Park will shut its doors for the last time after a closing party Sunday night.

Co-owner Maria Sord said in an email that the Charleyhorse locations in New Lenox and Munster, Ind., will remain open. The closing also will not affect the 94 West restaurant in Orland Park nor the nearby Park Hills Car Wash.

“The way we see it, we will now have more time to focus on other two Charleyhorses and 94 West, as well,” Sord wrote in an email. “Not taking Tinley’s closure as anything negative at all. Just time to move on!”

Sord said some employees at the Tinley location may be transferred to the other locations, if openings are available.


She said gift cards purchased at the Tinley Charleyhorse will be readily accepted at the other restaurants.

Sord said she had no information about possible new tenants in the Charleyhorse space.

Free Doughnuts on Friday

Krispy Kreme – there is still one in Midlothian – is giving away free doughnuts (no purchase necessary) on Friday to celebrate National Doughnut Day, while participating Dunkin’ Donut locations are giving away free doughnuts with any beverage purchase.

Tinley, Orland Farmers Markets Return This Weekend

Both Tinley Park and Orland Park will resume their farmer’s markets this weekend.

Tinley’s market runs from 7 a.m. to noon every Saturday through October in downtown Zabrocki Plaza at 173rd Street and Oak Park Avenue.

This year’s market will feature a jumphouse for kids starting at 9 a.m. on the first Saturday of the month. Face painting and craft projects will be available for the kids every Saturday until Sept. 1, said Becky Nichols, from Evon's Trophy and Gifts, chairman of the Farmer's Market Committee.

Mr. Photo Booth will be on hand to take photos on opening day, she said.

Vendor selections will include fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers.

Orland’s market runs from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fridays through Oct. 5 in the Village Center parking lot at 14700 S. Ravinia Ave. except on Aug. 3.

More than 35 vendors will be selling a variety of items including fresh produce, bakery items, jewelry, bread, gourmet mixes, household items, flowers, plants and garden accessories.

Tinley Liquors Looks Like a Goner

Family owned and operated Tinley Park Liquors appears to be out of business at 7032 W.183rd St. The store’s website and Facebook page have not indicated anything is wrong at the business, but its phone number is no longer accepting calls and there has been a sign on the door for weeks indicating the store is “closed for inventory.” There also is a message from April 27 on its Facebook page asking why the business is closed but without a comment from the owners.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.

You can also catch up on Comings & Goings in other parts of the Southland at http://www.southlandbusinessnews.blogspot.com/.

Ameera’s Pizza Closes in Tinley Park

Ameera's Pizzaria closed today in Tinley Park.
By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy

Ameera’s Pizzaria closed on Friday at 15911 S. 76th Avenue in Tinley Park.

A tipster said he saw employees hauling equipment out of there Friday morning.

The restaurant’s Facebook page doesn’t have anything to say on the closing, but the phone number has been disconnected and there’s a big “closed” sign on the front window.

The pizzeria opened in January 2011.

Currie Motors Celebrates Memorial Day

Currie Motors Ford of Frankfort, 9423 W. Lincoln Highway in Frankfort, will celebrate its fifth annual Memorial Day Event from noon to 3 p.m. tomorrow with a barbecue and visits by WCCQ personality Roy Gregory and the Northern Mustang Corral Club.

Operation Care Package will be on hand to accept donations for American troops serving overseas.

There will be food and giveaways including Kenny Chesney and Tim McGraw concert tickets.

Best Buy Mobile Open at River Oaks

Best Buy Mobile opened earlier this month in the Macy’s wing at River Oaks Center in Calumet City. It’s next to Body Central.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.

You can also catch up on Comings & Goings in other parts of the Southland at http://www.southlandbusinessnews.blogspot.com/.

New York & Co. Open Again in Orland

New York & Company district sales manager Beth Muszynski (left) and store manager Cindy McCollum cut the ribbon to officially reopen the Orland Square Mall store.

By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy

Women’s clothing retailer New York & Company is open again at Orland Square Mall in its newly remodeled store on the upper level Sears Court. The store held its official reopening last week with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. For information, call (708) 349-2088 or visit New York & Company.

Garden Gallery Grand Opening

Burbank-based Garden Center Services, a not-for-profit agency that supports people with developmental disabilities, will hold its grand opening and ribbon cutting from 5-9 p.m. tomorrow at its new Garden Gallery & Studio at 17459 S. Oak Park Ave. in Tinley Park.

The event will feature refreshments, live music and the chance to meet local artists who have artwork on display in the gallery.

Clients of Garden Center Services have been using the studio for art classes since March.

For information, call 708-560-4400 or visit Garden Gallery.

Whitey’s Dairy Palace Open for the Season

Whitey’s Dairy Palace is open again at 16860 S. Oak Park Ave. in Tinley Park with a menu of ice cream and hot dogs.

Charter Fitness Offers Free Passes to Military

Orland Park-based Charter Fitness is giving free gym passes to any member of the military on short-term leave from active duty.

The Orland Park-based fitness chain also is waiving joining fees for locally-based members of the military and their spouses and children. This deal also applies to local police and firefighters and their families.

Service personnel home on leave need only present their IDs and leave papers to qualify for the free passes, which are good for the duration of their leave and entitle them to full use of Charter Fitness locations.

For information and locations, visit Charter Fitness.

Marquette Bank Holds 5th Annual Food Drive

Marquette Bank has launched its fifth annual Neighborhood Food Drive and is collecting donations at all 24 bank locations until June 23.

Food and monetary donations will be distributed to local food pantries and neighborhood food banks through the Greater Chicago Food Depository and the Northern Illinois Food Bank.

“Last year, Marquette Bank donated over 62,500 meals to the Greater Chicago Food Depository and Northern Illinois Food Bank,” said Executive Vice President Betty Kosky-Harn. “With the help of our employees, customers and neighbors, we look forward to making this year’s food drive a huge success.”

Donations of non-perishable food items can be placed in food barrels at any of the bank’s 24 locations. Employees also will be spending several days volunteering at the Greater Chicago Food Depository sorting and packing donated food items.

The Limited Opens at Chicago Ridge Mall

The Limited, a women’s clothing store, opened a 5,000-square-foot new concept store last week at Chicago Ridge Mall near Center Court. For information, call 708-346-9120 or visit The Limited.

CUB to Pay Lucky Someone’s April Electric Bill

The Citizens Utility Board announced on Earth Day that one out of every 10 families who sign up for the consumer group’s free online energy bill-cutting service, CUBenergysaver.com, will have their electric bills paid in the month of April, up to $150.

CUBenergysaver.com was launched in June 2010 as a partnership between CUB and New York City-based Efficiency 2.0. Since then, the tool has helped consumers trim their gas and electric bills by an average of $130 a year by recommending hundreds of personalized energy-saving actions.

Efficiency 2.0 has offered to cover the April electric bill, up to $150, for one out of every 10 consumers who join CUB Energy Saver before June 1. Join at www.CUBenergysaver.com/earth.

“Protecting the planet starts at your doorstep,” CUB Executive Director David Kolata said in a release. “CUB Energy Saver proves that there are hundreds of ways to cut costs and reduce energy waste. It’s simple, it’s free, and it’s what Earth Month is all about.”

CUB Energy Saver links to a household's Commonwealth Edison account to track actual reductions in energy waste. It then rewards those reductions with points — two for every kilowatt-hour saved — that can be redeemed for shopping and restaurant discounts. The tool works for all residential electric consumers, including those who have signed up for alternative electric suppliers.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.

You can also catch up on Comings & Goings in other parts of the Southland at http://www.southlandbusinessnews.blogspot.com/.

Baumann’s Bakery Open for Business

Courtesy Palos Patch
By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy

Workmen spent most of Monday repairing the damage caused on Friday when a car accidentally crashed through the front window at Baumann’s Bakery at 12248 S. Harlem Ave. in Palos Heights.

“We’re trying to get it ready for (Tuesday),” owner Cathy Baumann said Monday morning.

They succeeded and the popular bakery, which was closed to customers over the weekend, reopened its doors this morning.

Baumann’s has been a fixture on Harlem Avenue in Palos Heights for the past 28 years.

Back to Bed Opens in New Tinley Location

Chicago-area retailer Back to Bed has just opened a new store at 15970 S. Harlem Ave. in Tinley Park in the former Blockbuster store. The store marks the company’s return to Tinley Park after pulling out of the Brookside Marketplace earlier this year.

For information, call 708-781-4346 or visit Back to Bed.

Plant Sale in Flossmoor

The Flossmoor Farmers Market, which doesn’t officially open until mid-June, is sponsoring its annual Plant Sale from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Friday at the Flossmoor Library, 1000 Sterling Ave.

Free Slurpees on Wednesday

Slurpee fans can get free samples from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. tomorrow when participating 7-Eleven stores will be handing out free 7.11 ounce servings to kick off the chain’s Flavors of Summer promotion and to celebrate the launch of the company’s first sugar-free Slurpee Lite flavor -- Mango. The retailer will do it all again on July 11, when it celebrates its birthday.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.

You can also catch up on Comings & Goings in other parts of the Southland at http://www.southlandbusinessnews.blogspot.com/.

Business As Usual at The Ashford House

By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy

The Ashford House in Tinley Park didn’t let Saturday’s melee keep it down for long.

The Irish-flavored restaurant at 7959 W. 159th St. was the site of a bizarre and brutal attack Saturday afternoon when a group of hooded assailants burst in and started pummeling a group that has been described as white supremacists.

The restaurant was closed for the rest of Saturday as police investigated the incident.

The restaurant was open for business as usual on Sunday and again today, though owner Mike Winston told the Tribune that customers were noticeably absent on Sunday.

I suspect its patrons will return, in no small part to the restaurant’s great deals, good service and friendly staff.

Free Sandwiches Today at Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A in Orland Park will be handing out free chicken sandwiches from 4-8 p.m. today at the eatery’s Original Chicken Sandwich Dinner Party!

Amphitheater to Host Business After Hours

First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre and Live Nation will host a Business After Hours and Open House from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday for members of the Tinley Park Chamber of Commerce. RSVP to 312-540-2180 or via email to chicagovip@livenation.com.

RoccoVino’s Grand Opening

RoccoVino’s Italian Restaurant, which opened to the public on May 7, will hold its ribbon cutting and grand opening at 11:45 a.m. Tuesday at its new home at 11255 W. 143rd St. For information, call the Orland Park Chamber at 708-349-2972.

Orland Township Job Fair Tomorrow

Orland Township is hosting a free job fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 22, at the township activity center, 14807 S. Ravinia Ave. in Orland Park.

Companies scheduled to attend include Western and Southern Financial Group, Home Instead Senior Care, Palos Community Hospital, Waddell & Reed Financial Advisors, Bridgestone Retail Operations, Marquette Bank, Avon, Cintas, Bath & Body Works, Chiro One Wellness Centers, Corn Products International, Plastipak Packaging, Governors State University, Prudential Insurance, Illinois Department of Employment Security, Pace Suburban Bus Company, Express, Primerica, All State Insurance, Rodan and Field Dermotologists and Farmers Insurance Group.

Business attire is required and attendants should bring updated resumes.

For information, visit Orland Township. Employers interested in participating may call 708-403-4222.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.

You can also catch up on Comings & Goings in other parts of the Southland at http://www.southlandbusinessnews.blogspot.com/.

Sam Maguire’s to be Sold at Auction

Sam Maguire's in Orland Park to be auctioned off at judicial sale on June 8.
By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy

Sam Maguire’s Irish Pub, which closed suddenly on Jan. 8, will be sold at a court-ordered judicial sale in Chicago on June 8.

“All the parties involved wanted to move this sale along,” said Michael Coughlin, an attorney with Burke & Handley, who is handling the case.

A foreclosure lawsuit was filed by State Bank of Countryside in September 2011 against the popular Orland Park restaurant at 39 Orland Square Drive. The bank was seeking more than $2.2 million from restaurant owners Michael Wilke, Marian Wilke and MTT Investments LLC.

At the time of the closing in January, a spokeswoman for State Bank of Countryside said the foreclosure was not a factor.

"We had nothing to do with their closing," said Mary McNally, a loan officer at the State Bank of Countryside branch in Homer Glen.

Coughlin said there were initial fears the property might be damaged after the closing but the building was secured and a receiver was appointed to safeguard the property.

Coughlin wouldn’t speculate on how many bidders would attend the June 8 sale, which is being handled by The Judicial Sale Corp.

“It depends on the general public’s interest,” he said.

Sam Maguire’s had been for sale for months before it closed with an asking price of $2.7 million. The property is still listed at online realty websites as being for sale with an asking price of $2.2 million.

The closing in January caught employees and patrons completely by surprise. Many of them posted messages on the pub’s website lamenting its shutdown.

Caribou Coffee Closing in Homewood

A decision to close the Caribou Coffee shop at 2010 W. 183rd St. in Homewood on Sunday has caused quite a ruckus in town. Why not join the conversation at the Homewood-Flossmoor Patch, which has gotten lots of comments about the move.

Joy’s Best Friends 3rd Annual Open House

Joy’s Best Friends Best Bites will host its third annual open house from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. tomorrow at 13034 S. LaGrange Road in Palos Park. Leashed pets are always welcome.

There will be free gifts and raffles with proceeds going to WAGS Animal Assisted Therapy, which will have some of its therapy dogs on hand.

For information, call 708-448-1515 or visit Joy's Best Friends.

Homewood Farmer’s Market returns Saturday

Homewood is celebrating the 30th anniversary this year of its farmer’s market, which returns tomorrow from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Village Hall parking lot. The market runs until Oct. 20.

Besides the usual fresh food, drinks, vegetables and flowers, this year the market features Green Thumb Saturdays from 9:30-10:15 a.m. in the Village Hall Council Chambers. The free program will be offered each month by University of Illinois master gardeners who will help both novice and experienced gardeners.

Charter Fitness Offers Free Passes to Military

Charter Fitness is giving free gym passes to any member of the military on short-term leave from active duty.

The Orland Park-based fitness chain also is waiving joining fees for locally-based members of the military and their spouses and children. This deal also applies to local police and firefighters and their families.

Service personnel home on leave need only present their IDs and leave papers to qualify for the free passes, which are good for the duration of their leave and entitle them to full use of Charter Fitness locations.

For information and locations, visit Charter Fitness.

RoccoVino’s Grand Opening

RoccoVino’s Italian Restaurant, which opened to the public on May 7, will hold its ribbon cutting and grand opening at 11:45 a.m. Tuesday, May 22, at its new home at 11255 W. 143rd St. For information, call the chamber at 708-349-2972.

Orland Township Job Fair on Tuesday

Orland Township is hosting a free job fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday, May 22, at the township activity center, 14807 S. Ravinia Ave. in Orland Park.

Companies scheduled to attend include Western and Southern Financial Group, Home Instead Senior Care, Palos Community Hospital, Waddell & Reed Financial Advisors, Bridgestone Retail Operations, Marquette Bank, Avon, Cintas, Bath & Body Works, Chiro One Wellness Centers, Corn Products International, Plastipak Packaging, Governors State University, Prudential Insurance, Illinois Department of Employment Security, Pace Suburban Bus Company, Express, Primerica, All State Insurance, Rodan and Field Dermotologists and Farmers Insurance Group.

Business attire is required and attendants should bring updated resumes.

For information, visit Orland Township Job Fair. Employers interested in participating may call 708-403-4222.

Bridge Teen Center Open House

The Bridge Teen Center, 15555 S. 71st Court in Orland Park, will host a Community Open House tomorrow from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to celebrate its second anniversary.

The event is open to the public and is designed to raise awareness of the importance of afterschool programs in the community. Free food from Famous Dave's, free gelato from Nonna's, live music from student band Sugar Rush, a student-led cupcake culinary demo, facility tours, and a preview of summer programs will be available throughout the day.

For information, call 708-532-0500 or visit The Bridge Teen Center.

Old Orland Sidewalk Sale

Susie's Trunk Show & Emporium, 9959 W. 143rd St., is one of the Old Orland Antique Shops holding a community sidewalk sale on Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For information, call 708-364-9336 or visit Old Orland Antique Shops. Other shops include Anna B’s, Beacon Hill, On the Road Again and the General Store.

Deal of Next Week: Free Original Chicken Sandwiches

If you like Chick-fil-A original chicken sandwiches, head to the Orland Park store for a freebie from 4-8 p.m. on Monday, May 21.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.

You can also catch up on Comings & Goings in other parts of the Southland at www.southlandbusinessnews.blogspot.com.

Sears Closing Store in Matteson, Lincoln Mall to be Sold at Auction

Sears is closing its store at Lincoln Mall in Matteson.
By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy

Sears is closing its anchor store at Lincoln Mall in Matteson and has begun a store closing sale.

The retailer opened the Matteson store in the mid-1990s after it closed a store in Park Forest. Sears replaced Weiboldt’s, which was an original anchor at the mall when it opened in 1973.

Emails to Sears were not returned, but the SouthtownStar reports the closing is connected to a June 1 judicial auction of Lincoln Mall and is not part of a massive store closing under way by Sears and Kmart.

The store’s shutdown will leave Sears with two stores in the south suburbs, one at Orland Square Mall in Orland Park and another at River Oaks Center in Calumet City.

Sears’ departure also will leave Lincoln Mall with Carson’s as its single anchor store, though JCPenney and Target have stores next to the mall. Those stores moved next to Lincoln Mall as part of a redevelopment effort that cut a new street from Cicero Avenue to U.S. 30 behind the mall.

The mall, which has been on a decline for more than a decade, is scheduled to be sold at auction in Chicago on June 1. The auction was ordered by a judge to satisfy a $44 million judgment against the mall’s owner Realty America, which bought Lincoln Mall in 2003 but filed for bankruptcy in 2009.

“The mall will be sold but it will not be closing,” said Michelle Panovich, a receiver for the mall and a senior vice president with Mid-America Asset Management.

Another retailer – Best Buy – just closed a nearby store.

Despite Lincoln Mall’s troubles, Matteson has had some luck drawing in new businesses. A Ross Dress for Less opened last year in a shopping center northwest of Lincoln Mall and a new strip center across the street from the mall at U.S. 30 and Cicero Avenue recently welcomed a Five Guys burger joint and a Chipotle restaurant.

Oak Lawn Plant Sale

The Oak Lawn Garden Club will hold its annual Plant Sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday at the Centennial Park Gazebo at 94th Street and Nashville Avenue. That's a new location this year. The club will also be selling containers, house plants, herbs, baskets, vegetables, garden art, oval planters and Perlite.

Gloria Jean’s Shows Off New Look Coffee Shop

Gloria Jean’s Coffees officially unveiled its first Coffee House of the Future this week at Chicago Ridge Mall.

The new look coffee shop features a barista espresso bar, a whole bean coffee table, a gift area where customers can create their own gift baskets, and seating.

"Our well trained team is very passionate about coffee and providing the highest quality beverages and food to our guests, together with outstanding service and a welcoming environment," said Gloria Jean's Chicago Ridge franchise partner Muddassar Alvi in a release.

The Australian-based company has more than 900 coffee shops throughout the world, with 74 in the United States. The Chicago Ridge location is between Aldi and Sears.

Schilling to Hold Deck Expo

Schilling will hold an outdoor living and deck expo from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday at its Mokena location at 9900 W. 191st St. There will be free food from Hog Haven, a DJ, raffles and free samples. Carol McGowan from country station WCCQ will broadcast from the store from 9-11 a.m.

Schilling also announced that it will be expanding the Mokena location, which opened two years ago.

Marquette Bank Financial Open House

Marquette Wealth Management will host a free “Spring Into Action” financial open house from 2-5 p.m. on Friday at 7560 W. 159th St. in Orland Park. Refreshments will be served. Seating is limited. To register, call 708-614-4720.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.

You can also catch up on Comings & Goings in other parts of the Southland at http://www.southlandbusinessnews.blogspot.com/.

Francesca’s on 95th Honors Teachers



By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy

Francesca’s on 95th is showing its appreciation for educators by asking students to nominate their favorite teacher and by offering teachers 15 percent off their check when dining at Francesca’s between now and July 1.

“We wanted to show our appreciation to teachers,” said Francesca’s general manager Paul Frencl. Only one 15 percent off deal per table is valid, Frencl said, but the discount is good for everyone at the table. It also can’t be combined with other offers. Teachers just have to show a school ID to qualify for the discount, which is available from now to July 1.

Francesca’s also wants students to honor their teachers. The restaurant is asking students to submit their favorite teacher to Francesca’s Facebook page by this Friday. Then the restaurant will ask visitors to its Facebook page to vote and the top three teachers will walk away with either a $100, $50 or $25 gift card from Francesca’s.

The students who nominate the top three teachers will each receive a $10 gift card.

Winners will be announced on Francesca’s on 95th Facebook page on June 8.

“We’re trying to get the community involved with Francesca’s on 95th through social media,” Frencl said.

Submissions must include the teacher’s name and an approved photo, the teacher’s school and grade they teach, why the teacher deserves to win, their favorite dish at Francesca’s and the student’s name.

For information, call Frencl at 708-598-7007.

Tastee Freez to Host Alsip, Palos Chambers

Tastee Freez, 11906 S. Harlem Ave. in Palos Heights, is hosting a Business After Hours from 5:30-7 p.m. Thursday for members of the Alsip and Palos chambers of commerce.

Sam’s Triple Crown to Cut Ribbon

Orland Hills officials will help celebrate the opening of Sam’s Triple Crown and Trackside OTB with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 5:30 p.m. Thursday. Manager Tony Mannerino said an official grand opening will be held at a later date.

Frankfort Cruise Nights Start Thursday

Cruisin’ Frankfort begins this week when the Frankfort Car Club resumes its weekly cruise night from 6-9 p.m. Thursday in downtown Frankfort.

For a complete list of weekly schedules and a map showing new parking locations, visit Frankfort Car Club Cruisin’ Frankfort.

Frankfort Square Community Garage Sale

The Frankfort Square Park District is sponsoring its annual communitywide garage sale from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. Each registered participant’s address is included on a list of participating homes that is available at the park district office.

Marquette Bank Financial Open House

Marquette Wealth Management will host a free “Spring Into Action” financial open house from 2-5 p.m. Friday at 7560 W. 159th St. in Orland Park. Refreshments will be served. Seating is limited. To register, call 708-614-4720.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.

You can also catch up on Comings & Goings in other parts of the Southland at http://www.southlandbusinessnews.blogspot.com/.

Bachrach Opens 2nd Orland Store

Bachrach Menswear is holding an open house tomorrow at its new Orland Park store.
By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy

Bachrach Menswear likes Orland Park so much the chain has opened a second store in the village at 14205 S. LaGrange Road in the Orland Crossing shopping center. The California-based retailer also has a store inside Orland Square Mall, which will remain open.

The retailer – which got its start in 1877 in downstate Decatur – is holding an open house for the community starting with a ribbon cutting at noon Wednesday, May 16.

Associate Linnea Carizeau said the store will have buy one, get one free deals, entertainment and refreshments as well as a raffle for a new suit.

The new store opened a few weeks ago and is the retailer’s fourth in Illinois. At 5,000 square feet, it’s bigger than the mall location.

“We’ll carry a bigger selection and newer items,” Carizeau said.

Store hours will be Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For information, call 708-403-5756.

Central Collision Hosts Mokena, Southland Chambers

Central Collision is hosting a Business After Hours from 5-7 p.m. Wednesday at 9646 W. 196th St. in Mokena for members of the Mokena Chamber of Commerce and the Southland Chamber of Commerce.

The 30-year-old company operates six auto repair shops in Peotone, Mokena, Crete, New Lenox, Oak Forest and Tinley Park.

This is a free networking event featuring appetizers, libations, raffle drawings, tours of the facility, and repair demonstrations.

Donate Blood, Get T-Bolts Ticket

Anyone who donates blood from 11:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. tomorrow at the Heartland Blood Center, 107 Bankview Drive in Frankfort, will receive a free ticket to a Windy City Thunderbolts baseball game. Donors also will receive an $11 Oberweis gift card.

The blood center also will be giving away hot dogs and chips and free BBQ sets to donors. T-Bolts mascot Boomer will be on hand from 4-5 p.m. for photos and autographs.

For information, call 800-786-4483.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.

You can also catch up on Comings & Goings in other parts of the Southland at http://www.southlandbusinessnews.blogspot.com/.

The Great Escape Opens First Superstore in Orland Park

The Great Escape has opened its first superstore in Orland Park.
By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy

Home leisure retailer The Great Escape has opened its first superstore in the former Linens-n-Things at 15854 S. LaGrange Road in Orland Park.

“It’s a soft opening because we’re not 100 percent complete,” store manager Jason Swinson said last week. “We’ll have our grand opening in a couple of weeks, but we wanted to be open in time for Mother’s Day.”

Swinson said the new store also is home to Chicago Home Fitness boutique, which moved from its former location at 14934 S. LaGrange Road. Swinson said The Great Escape acquired the fitness chain last year and is integrating those stores into its Great Escape locations.

Also new to the Orland store, Swinson said, is a concept store within a store for Jacuzzi spas.

Swinson said the store also has cutting edge technology for backyard planning.

“We have a Tropitone Design Center that uses a computer to design a backyard layout based on your particulars,” he said. “It plans everything down to the fabric and colors.”

In addition, the store has a huge selection of grills, pools and patio sets, he said.

“We have 150 patio sets on display,” Swinson said. “A regular store might have 40 sets on display. We also have three pools on display.”

The Great Escape store at 7787 W. 159th St. in Tinley Park will remain open as a closeout store and pool chemical store, Swinson said.

For information, call 708-403-2160 or visit The Great Escape or Chicago Home Fitness.

Law Office Opens in Tinley

The Law Office of Krydnski & Frigo, 18311 N. Creek Drive, Suite G, Tinley Park, will host an open house and ribbon cutting for the Tinley Park and Orland Park chambers of commerce starting at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 15. The ribbon cutting will take place at 5 p.m. Let's Do Lunch will provide refreshments.

Vein Clinics Open House

Vein Clinics of America will hold an open house from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 16, to celebrate the opening of its new Orland Park office at 14225 S. 95th Avenue, Suite 45S.

Sbarro Opens in Lincoln Oasis

Sbarro, a fast-food Italian restaurant usually found in shopping mall food courts has opened in the Lincoln Oasis in South Holland on the Illinois Tollway (Interstates 80/294). The restaurant features Italian entrees, pasta, salads and pizza. It is open daily from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

GNC Opens in New Lenox

GNC opened a health store recently at 2532 E. Lincoln Highway in New Lenox in the former Elizabeth Jade Salon. Hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m. It’s the retailer’s 16th store in the Southland. For information, call 815- 462-0092 or visit GNC.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.


You can also catch up on Comings & Goings in other parts of the Southland at www.southlandbusinessnews.blogspot.com.

Star Flyer Roller Rink Closes

By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy

A roller skating tradition ended recently with the closing of the Star Flyer Roller Rink at 3241 E. End Ave. in South Chicago Heights. The roller rink had been open for more than 30 years.

iFix Opens at Chicago Ridge Mall

iFixandRepair, a store that promises to be able to fix broken iPhones, iPods, iPads, cell phones, and Mac or PC computers, opened recently at Chicago Ridge Mall. Hours are Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 6 p.m.

For information, call 708-320-1349 or visit iFix.

Native Plant Sale at Irons Oaks

A large variety of native plants such as Jack-in-the-Pulpit, Wild Ginger and Columbine will be available at this year’s Native Plant Sale from 9 a.m. to noon tomorrow at Irons Oaks, 20000 S. Western Ave. in Olympia Fields. For information, call 708-481-2330.

Marquette Bank Hosts Free Family Party

Marquette Bank will host a free Family Party from 2-4 p.m. tomorrow at its branch at 17865 S. Wolf Road in Orland Park. For information, call 708-873-8170.

Double Dip for Oak Lawn Chamber Next Week

The Oak Lawn Chamber will host a breakfast for prospective members from 8-9 a.m. Wednesday, May 16, at Jason’s Deli, 6260 W. 95th St. Breakfast is free for new and prospective members and $5 for current members. RSVP to the chamber.

That same day, Standard Bank, 4001 W. 95th St., will host a Business After Hours from 5:30-7:30 p.m. There will be appetizers and beverages. RSVP to Jean Fornal at the bank at 708-499-2062.

Whitley to Address Southland Chamber

Illinois Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Doug Whitley will tackle key commerce topics as he headlines the Chicago Southland Chamber's Regional Consensus Luncheon on Monday, May 14, at 11:30 a.m. at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Tinley Park Convention Center, 18451 Convention Center Drive.

Whitley will discuss the importance of a chamber membership, what we can do to improve the business environment and Gov. Pat Quinn's job creation policies. A question and answer period will follow.

Chamber officials also will announce the names of the four outstanding high school seniors, sons and daughters of chamber members, who have been chosen to receive Chamber Foundation scholarships of $2,000 each.

The cost is $40 for non-members, $30 for members, and reservations can be made on the chamber website, http://www.chicagosouthland.com/, via e-mail at info@ChicagoSouthland.com or by telephone, 708-957-6950.

Mrs. Fields Taste Test

Mrs. Fields is holding a cookie taste test Monday and Tuesday afternoon at its store inside Orland Square Mall. For information, call 708-364-0123.

Help Grow Flossmoor

May is the Flossmoor Business Association's "Help Grow Flossmoor" month. Consumers are encouraged to collect and save receipts from participating FBA members during the entire month of May. Anyone who spends money in at least three FBA members' locations is eligible for entry into a raffle for one of three gift baskets. For information, visit the Flossmoor Business Association.

CUB Issues Electricity Choice Primer

Responding to reports of customer confusion and potential power scams, the Citizens Utility Board has released a one-page primer on what the electric choices are for consumers in hundreds of communities that have passed “municipal aggregation” referendums and are beginning to negotiate electricity prices on behalf of their residents.

CUB’s primer — “What are my electricity choices?” — can be found at http://www.citizensutilityboard.org/. It is designed to give consumers a two-minute overview of Illinois’ suddenly complicated electricity market so they can avoid bad deals. For decades, residents didn’t have a choice for their electric supplier. But in the last two years alternative companies have flooded the market.

Adding to the complexity, on March 20, more than 240 Illinois communities passed referendums allowing local governments to negotiate residential prices with certain Commonwealth Edison competitors.

Now, those communities have reported a surge in consumer questions and complaints regarding door-to-door, phone and mail solicitations from energy suppliers. As communities finalize “municipal aggregation” contracts on behalf of residents, the window for alternative electricity suppliers to sign up individual customers in those communities is closing. That could be fertile ground for high-pressure sales tactics and consumer confusion, CUB Executive Director David Kolata said.

“Like no other time in the history of Illinois’ electricity market, consumers need education to avoid bad deals,” Kolata said. “If you have any questions about an offer, check with CUB and community leaders before signing up.”

Mom’s Eat Free at Chick-fil-A

Mom’s can eat for free from 8:30-10:30 a.m. tomorrow at the Orland Park Chick-fil-A on LaGrange Road.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.


You can also catch up on Comings & Goings in other parts of the Southland at www.southlandbusinessnews.blogspot.com.

Flying Dragon Grounded in Tinley

Flying Dragon closed recently in Tinley Park.
By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy

Flying Dragon, formerly known as Red Dragon Chinese restaurant, appears to be closed. The restaurant at 16651 S. 80th Avenue in Tinley Park, has been dark on several recent days and the phone number goes unanswered during business hours. There is no Flying Dragon website and the website for Red Dragon has been taken down.

Eva’s Bridals Bounces Back

Six months after reopening in its new location at 5269 W. 95th St., Eva’s Bridals has about put the memory of a devastating fire behind it.

“We’re slowly getting there,” said third generation owner Ronia Ghusein on Tuesday. “People are still coming in and congratulating us on surviving.”

As for the new home?

“We love it,” she said with a laugh. “It feels like we’ve been here for 100 years. I thought it would take a lot longer to make the new location feel like home.”

Eva’s even managed to expand during their desperate times by opening a shop in Tinley Park.

“It’s a smaller store so we made it more of a couture shop,” Ghusein said. “We weren’t sure how it would be received. But business has been so good we decided to keep the Tinley salon open.”

Business is almost back to normal at the Oak Lawn shop and that includes three trunk shows in the next two weeks.

“This is a busy season for brides,” Ghusein said. “Couples get engaged over the holidays and then they spend January, February, March and April planning for a summer wedding.”

The trunk shows are by appointment only (call 708-422-5599) and start Friday with a show by wedding designer Jim Hjelm. His gown collection will be on display from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Mother’s Day.

Also up this weekend is the Sottero and Midgley Trunk Show featuring its Spring Collection. That shows runs all day Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

The James Clifford Trunk Show rolls into town next weekend featuring his couture gown collection. That show runs all day on Friday, May 18, Saturday, May 19, and Sunday, May 20.

For information, call Eva’s or visit Eva's Bridals of Oak Lawn.

New Lenox French Market Returns Saturday

The New Lenox French Market returns this weekend in the south parking lot of Village Hall, 1 Veterans Parkway. The market runs from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday until Oct. 6.

This week, the New Lenox Fire Department will be on hand with its Touch a Truck program and the New Lenox School District 122 Foundation will have a face painting table.

Mother, Daughter Shopping Spree

The Downtown Homewood Business Association is again hosting its Mother and Daughter Shopping Spree on Friday and Saturday in Homewood. There will be special discounts offered as well as raffle prizes.

On Saturday, mothers and daughters can create a beautiful spring bouquet by receiving a flower from each participating merchant:

• Bella Vita
• Art 4 Soul
• Farmer's Insurance
• Nathalie's Interiors
• Global Fusion
• Suzie's Hallmark
• Homewood Florist

Tony’s Villa Rosa Pizza Closes in Mokena

After two years in business at its Front Street location in Mokena, Tony's Villa Rosa Pizza closed its doors last week because of what its manager said was a refusal by the new landlord – Great Lakes Bank – to renew the pizzeria’s lease.

The manager said the pizzeria, which has another location in Frankfort and related businesses in Chicago Heights, intends to reopen soon at a new location in Mokena.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.

You can also catch up on Comings & Goings in other parts of the Southland at www.southlandbusinessnews.blogspot.com.

Chicken Restaurant Now Open in Ford City Shopping Center Food Court

Krispy Krunchy Chicken opened last month in the Ford City food court.
By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy

Krispy Krunchy Chicken, a quick-serve restaurant that features Cajun-style chicken, opened last month in the Ford City Shopping Center food court. The chain was founded in Louisiana, which explains its Cajun-themed menu that includes jambalaya, boudin bites and catfish.

Silver Lake Driving Range Grand Opening

Orland Park Chamber of Commerce members are invited to the ribbon-cutting and grand opening of the new driving range at Silver Lake Country Club at 1:30 p.m. Friday, May 11. A day of festivities is planned. RSVP to the chamber or call 708-349-2972.

Rosati’s Closes in Orland

Rosati’s closed a couple of weeks ago at 9023 W. 151st St. in Orland Park. A company spokeswoman said the decision to close was made by the franchisee, who was not available for comment, and there are no immediate plans to reopen the location.

Moo & Oink Mobile Visits Southland

The Moo & Oink mobile will be parked in the parking lot of the Dixmoor Market, 14635 S. Western Ave., from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 12. To celebrate Mother’s Day, moms, grandmothers and great-grandmothers will be presented with a long-stemmed rose (while supplies last).

Cooks from Moo & Oink will set up the grill and offer samples of a variety of Moo & Oink products such as Moo & Oink burgers and Moo & Oink mild links.

Durbin’s Midlothian Anniversary Bash

Durbin’s of Midlothian, 14733 S. Cicero Ave., will celebrate its fourth anniversary starting at 11 a.m. on Saturday with 25-cent draft beers, $2 Durbins bombs and Apple Pie shots. The restaurant will also serve up live music, a DJ, free pizza buffet and free raffles. For information, visit Durbin's of Midlothian Facebook page.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.


You can also catch up on Comings & Goings in other parts of the Southland at www.southlandbusinessnews.blogspot.com.

Advance Auto Parts, Charter Fitness Under Construction in Mokena

Advance Auto Sales in building a new store on LaGrange Road in Mokena.
By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy

Virginia-based Advance Auto Parts is building an after-market auto store in the last remaining outlot at the Mokena Town Square shopping center at LaGrange and LaPorte roads in Mokena, said Mokena Economic Development Director Alan Zordan.

The store, which will be next to the A&W Root Beer and KFC restaurant, will be the company’s 11th in the Chicago Southland.

For information, visit Advance Auto Parts.

In a related development, Orland Park-based Charter Fitness is remodeling the shopping center’s former Carpetland USA space for its Mokena health club, which will be moving from its present location at 9418 W. 191st St.

The new location is expected to be ready by this fall.

For information, visit Charter Fitness.

Cosi Leaving Orland Park

Cosi, 15139 S. LaGrange Road, seems to be on its way out of Orland Park. Emails to the company were not answered and Inland Real Estate Corp., which owns Orland Park Place, did not return phone calls, but the company lists the 3,000-square-foot Cosi space as “coming available” on its Orland Park Place site plan.

The Deerfield-based chain is in trouble and has seen its stock price plummet 85 percent in the past five years.

Mom’s Night Out at Orland Square Mall

Mom’s can enjoy a night out being pampered by vendors at Orland Square Mall’s third annual Mom’s Night Out from 5-8 p.m. Thursday, May 10.

Some of this year’s vendors include Dove, Little Black Dress Vodka, Silver Cross Hospital, Cabot Cheese, Sunshine Yoga Studio, Macy’s, Bare Escentuals and Scentsy.

For information, call Gayle Gleespen at 708-349-1647.

Tinley Chamber Doings

The Tinley Park Chamber of Commerce has two events this week – one before work and one after.

Chamber members have been invited to a school-business summit from 8-9:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 9, at Andrew High School, 9100 W. 171st St. Call Marcia Gustavson at 708-342-5811 to reserve a spot.

Chamber members are also invited to an Ice Cream Social Open House from 4-7 p.m. Thursday, May 10, to celebrate Jay Walsh’s anniversary with Edward Jones at 7915 W. 171st St.

RSVP to the chamber or by calling 708-532-5700.

White Sox Closer to Sign at Triple Threat Sports New Frankfort Location

Triple Threat Sports, a full service sports apparel and novelties store, moved last month from its longtime home in Mokena to new digs at 19925 S. LaGrange Road in Frankfort, next to Play It Again Sports in the Hickory Creek Marketplace.

To help celebrate the move, Triple Threat will have a ticketed autograph session with White Sox closer Hector Santiago from 7-8 p.m. Thursday. Advance pricing is $10 for any item or two items for $15.

For information or tickets, call 815-806-8875 or 708-478-6090 or visit Triple Threat Sports or its Facebook page.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.


You can also catch up on Comings & Goings in other parts of the Southland at http://www.southlandbusinessnews.blogspot.com/.

BMW of Orland Park Has New Home

BMW of Orland Park opened in its new digs over the weekend.
By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy

BMW of Orland Park opened the doors Saturday of its new home at 159th Street and Wolf Road in Orland Park and will hold its ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday.

The dealership on Friday moved from its longtime home at 8470 W. 159th St. That space will be used by the adjacent Mercedes-Benz of Orland Park. Both dealerships are owned by the same Pennsylvania-based auto group.

The new 60,000-square-foot dealership has a tax-sharing agreement with the village for sales tax generated by the new store for the next 10 years as well as a property tax abatement agreement.

For information, visit BMW of Orland Park or its Facebook page.

Burrito Loco Changes Name


El Burrito Loco at 8005 W. 183rd St. in Tinley Park was sold recently and it now goes by the name Los 3 Burritos. Everything else remains the same including the hours, menu, quality of the food and its phone number, 708-429-4195.

CSCVB Celebrates National Tourism Day

The Chicago Southland Convention & Visitors Bureau will host a Business After Hours to observe National Tourism Day on Wednesday, May 9, from 5-7 p.m. at the CSCVB Offices, 2304 E. 173rd St. in Lansing, with a celebration of tourism's benefits to the local, regional and state economy.

In addition, CSCVB will host a silent auction with a portion of the proceeds being donated to the Sertoma Centre, 4343 W. 123rd St. in Alsip, a training and job placement center for disabled adults.

For information, call Elizabeth at 708-895-8200.

Veterans Business Boot Camp

Governors State University will host its annual Veterans Entrepreneurial Boot Camp on Wednesday, May 9.

The daylong event includes speakers, seminars, expert panel discussions designed to promote veteran business start-up and growth and development of existing veteran-owned businesses.

Seminar topics include Marketing Your Business on a Shoestring Budget, Veteran Financing Opportunities Through the SBA and a Variety of Lenders, Military Friendly Franchising Opportunities, Your Internet Presence, Planning Your New Business, Business Plans Why?, Biz Plan Financials, Government Contracting - How to get my business Certified MBE, WBE, SDVOSB 8(a), Export Opportunities the "Law and Order of Entrepreneurship," Business Killers, Develop a Referral Mindset and Perception - what are they thinking?

The event is free to veterans. A complimentary breakfast and full lunch will be provided.

All presentation material and other helpful tools will be provided free to attendees on a dog tag-style flash drive.

Cost is $25 for business partners of veterans and family members (due at registration).

For information, call Bob Rakstang at 708-534-8390.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.

You can also catch up on Comings & Goings in other parts of the Southland at http://www.southlandbusinessnews.blogspot.com/.

Tasty Buffet Coming To Frankfort

The owners of New Work Chinese Restaurant in Frankfort will soon be opening Tasty Buffet.

By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy

New Wok Chinese Restaurant in Frankfort’s Walt’s plaza closed recently but its owners are planning to open Tasty Buffet, an Asian buffet restaurant, in the former Mary Todd’s space on the other side of the plaza.

The New Wok website is still up and its phone number is still connected, so I’m guessing those will be updated when the new location opens.

Construction on the new location delayed its planned April opening and the owners now hope to open later this month.

VA Opens Bigger Clinic in Oak Lawn

Edward Hines VA Hospital recently opened a bigger and better outpatient clinic at 10201 S. Cicero Ave.

The new clinic is about a mile away from the old clinic but it has almost three times as much clinical space and much more parking. The Department of Veterans Affairs opened the clinic a decade ago to serve veterans who can’t make the trip to Hines in Maywood. The clinic serves more than 5,400 patients per year.

"VA is committed to providing our veterans with top quality health care as close to their homes as possible,” Peter Dancy, Acting Director of the Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, said in a release. “We are always looking for better ways to serve our veterans.

“This new location in Oak Lawn allows us to expand our services to veterans in areas like mental health and social work, women’s health, nutrition, pharmacy, etc. We are thrilled to provide our top quality health care to veterans in this area in a brand new state-of-the-art clinic location.”

For information, call 708-499-3675.

Deal of the Week: Free Comic Books

Amazing Fantasy Books and Comics is again taking part in the annual Free Comic Book Day from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday at all four locations (no purchase necessary).

Each location is having its own special appearances, signings, raffles and food. For example, Darth Vader and some Imperial Storm Troopers are expected to descend on the Frankfort location from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. So check with each location for its particulars.

AF Books locations are:

• Calumet City, 582 Torrence Ave., 708-891-2260
• Frankfort, 20523 S. LaGrange Road, 815-469-5092
• Lockport, 1128 S. State St., 815-834-1658
• Tinley Park, 15948 S. Harlem Ave.,708-633-0837

For information, visit AF Books website or http://www.freecomicbookday.com/.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.

You can also catch up on Comings & Goings in other parts of the Southland and read past colunms at http://www.southlandbusinessnews.blogspot.com/.

Sam’s Triple Crown, Trackside OTB Now Open in Orland Hills

Sam's Triple Crown and the Trackside OTB
opened last week in Orland Hills.
By Bob Bong
Southland Savvy

Sam’s Triple Crown restaurant and Trackside OTB opened for business last week at 9201 W. 159th St. in Orland Hills.

“It’s been fairly busy since we opened,” manager Tony Mannerino said on Tuesday. “That will pick up now that we have our sign.”

Mannerino said he expects a big crowd on Saturday for the Kentucky Derby.

“We’ll have two 40x60 tents outside with tables and chairs, a makeshift bar, beer in tubs, betting stations and TVs,” he said. “We’re also taking reservations for inside seating.”

The 5,000-square-foot facility seats 200 and has more than 50 flat-screen HDTV televisions.

“We expect to do very, very well in Orland Hills,” said Gil Carmichael, director of Off-Track Operations at Arlington Park race track, which operates the Trackside OTB locations.

“So will Orland Hills,” he said. “As 1 percent of the gross revenues are returned to the village every year.”

Admission to Sam’s Triple Crown is free, but bettors will have to pay a $1 tax, Carmichael said.

“The tax was a parting gift from (former Cook County Board president) Todd Stroger before he left office,” Carmichael said. The tax is collected under a 1987 law that allows government bodies to impose a $1 tax on OTB parlors.

“Only Cook County and Chicago charge the tax,” he said, explaining why OTBs in Mokena and Lockport do not tax bettors.

The OTB opens at 10:30 a.m. and Sam’s is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to midnight and from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m. on Friday and Saturday.

For information and to make Derby reservations, call 708-873-0900.

Firehouse Subs Opens in Munster

Firehouse Subs opened today at 8153 Calumet Ave. in the new Shops of Munster plaza in Munster on the former Carpetland USA site.

Specializing in hot subs, Firehouse Subs serves large portions of premium meats and Sargento cheeses, steamed hot and placed atop fresh produce on a toasted sub roll. The Munster location also offers catering.

Each restaurant offers a family-oriented dining atmosphere, complete with an authentic firefighter theme that celebrates local firefighting history, as well as the founding family’s 200 years of firefighting service. The Munster location features a mural of a new Munster Fire Department truck.

Hours will be daily from 10:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

For information, visit the company’s website or its Facebook page.

Potempa Agency Has New Digs

The Potempa Agency, which represents Allstate Insurance, moved into new digs today at 20879 S. LaGrange Road in Frankfort, in the Walt’s Plaza. Her phone number remains 815-469-8200.

If you see a new business in town or wonder what happened to an old favorite, drop me a line at bobbong@hotmail.com.

You can also catch up on Comings & Goings in other parts of the Southland at www.southlandbusinessnews.blogspot.com.