ILLINOIS — This week in Illinois business news, a family business is heartbroken after a racial slur was spray-painted onto the building; Illinois locations of a major burger chain are in danger of closing; and layoffs jumped over 200 percent in February.
Additionally, a 62-year-old man faces wire fraud charges after allegedly using his clients’ money to pay for travel, jewelry and gym fees.
Check out this week’s top headlines for Illinois business news on Patch:
Find out what’s happening in Chicagofor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Quote Of The Week
“With heavy hearts we will be closing this location as this was a hobby business venture that we are unwilling to expose ourselves to the radical racism that is consuming our national and unfortunately the community I have grown to love over the last 20 years.” – Northern Illinois business owner
The Bottom Line
Find out what’s happening in Chicagofor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Freebie of the Week
In celebration of National Pi Day on March 14 (3/14), Pizza Hut will be offering a buy one, get one free deal for large pizzas when users use the code FREE PIZZA at checkout.
More Restaurant News
Shake Shack Unveils Opening Date Of Naperville Restaurant
Known for its inventive milkshakes, the eatery, which serves burgers, dogs and other bites, will feature a dining room and drive-thru.
The Original Walt’s Ice Cream opened March 1. The Dillon family operates Walt’s at 1314 W. Jefferson St. They are now open for 2025.
Nikos: New Lenten Fish Fry Tradition For Joliet, Details Revealed
Nikos Lippas announced on Facebook, “he is excited and proud to announce that I took over the St. George Banquet Hall, Serbian Hall.”
Chipotle And Chick-fil-A Opening In Joliet’s Rock Run Collection: WJOL
Joliet’s news radio station, 1340-AM WJOL broke the news first.
Everest Fusion Brings Hot Pot, Ramen, Barbecue To Downers Grove
The restaurant serves hot pot and barbecue items, ramen and signature cocktails at 1500 75th St. in Downers Grove.
Mexican Restaurant Coming To Elmhurst ‘Soonish’
It is set to occupy the spot of a former restaurant on Elmhurst’s south side.
Wolf Bakery Rolls Out The Paczki For Fat Tuesday In Evergreen Park
Wolf’s Bakery in Evergreen Park is cranking out the paczki in a dozen flavors for Fat Tuesday, March 4.
Home Run Inn To Close 3 Of Its Chicago Area Pizzerias
The other six stores will remain open.
City Official Criticizes Darien Bar Owner
An alderman said the businessman is “crossing the line” with social media comments.
Oak Forest ‘Church Ladies’ Ready To Serve Up Pierogi For Easter Dinner
No pre-orders this time! It’s first come, first served on sale dates in April.
More Business News
Flashbacks And New Experiences Found At Long, Live Vinyl Records
Retiring teacher Mike Keysboe returns to his vinyl roots at his new buy, sell, trade record shop, Long Live Vinyl Records in Palos Park.
Batavia Boardwalk Graduate Opens Store In Wilson Street Mercantile
Seapeak Style specializes in colorful clothes, accessories and stationery inspired by mountains and the beach.
Some Chicago Companies Say They Have To Brace For Hits From President Trump’s Tariffs
The price of a wide array of products will likely soon be going up as a result — affecting everything from food to electronics.
Car Crashes Into Elmhurst Business: Police
The driver was attempting to park when the collision occurred, authorities said.
Audit Firm Investigates Elmhurst D205 Finances
The inquiry is expected to cost at least $20,000 and take a few months.
Western Springs Business Victim Of $5K Forgery: Cops
In another case, money was stolen from a locker at the high school, police said.
The city wants the power to force the removal of short-term rental listings.
$2.3M Hinsdale Home To Be Torn Down
The architect said the house has fallen into disrepair. A planned new home “embraces” a European style.
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