Perseverance has paid off for John Ethell, owner of Choo Choo Johnny's in Frankfort.

Ethell has been trying for a couple of years to break into the franchise business with his railroad-themed restaurant that features meals delivered by train at 667 LaGrange Road.

Success came in February, when Ethell sold his first franchise in Mason, Ohio, a town near Dayton.

A second franchise might be sold soon in the Naperville-Plainfield area, Ethell said.

"We have a few other possibilities, as well," he said.

None, however, is more promising than the prospect from Dubai in the Persian Gulf, which would open an international door for the Frankfort shop.

That kind of deal would put Choo Choo Johnny's - and Frankfort - on the map.

In the meantime, the Frankfort location still is going strong despite the slumping economy, Ethell said.

Hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

The phone number is (815) 806-9005.

Closed

• Plasma Warehouse, an electronics and home entertainment store, has closed at 28 E. Lincoln Highway in Frankfort.

• Dollar Max, one of the many variations of a dollar store in the Southland, has closed at 4116 Southwest Highway in Hometown.

Open

• J & J Fish and Chicken, 8515 S. 88th Ave. in Justice, opened last weekend. The eatery is open from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The phone number is (708) 924-0158.

• Steak-N-Bake, 14731 S. Kedzie Ave. in Posen, held its grand opening April 5 under new management. Ala Zumot is the new owner of the sandwich shop.

• Papi's Mexican Kitchen, 7818 E. Lincoln Highway in the All Star Sports Bar, held its grand opening April 8.

The phone number is (815) 464-3577.

• Cardinal Fitness has opened at 1025 E. Ninth St. in Lockport. The building is the former 9th Street Fitness club.

The phone number is (815) 588-1830.

Moved

Information Professionals Inc., a real estate licensing school, has relocated to 14738 S. Cicero Ave. in the Mid-Oak Shopping Plaza in Midlothian.

For information on classes, call (708) 687-8049.

Newly licensed

Chicago Ridge has issued business licenses for the following establishments:

• Al Wafa, a smoking cafe, at 10602 S. Ridgeland Ave.

• True Cuts, a salon, at 5710 W. 111th St.

• Eastco Corp., a warehouse, at 10800 S. Central Ave.

• Exotic Pets, a pet store, at 10344 S. Oak Park Ave.

Have you opened a new business or spotted one?
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