We’re still doing the interview with Felony Franks, or more specifically Jim Andrews – the owner. That’s actually not what this micro-post is about though; I wanted to bring a news story to your attention if you haven’t already seen it. Jim Andrews wife contacted me today in reply to an email I sent her stating that the news story I was waiting on had finally broke and it made the first page of the Wall Street Journal! You should check out the article if you get a chance at http://online.wsj.com/article/SB125538779820481255.html?mod=WSJ_hpp_MIDDLENexttoWhatsNewsThird#articleTabs%3Darticle
There’s a good discussion still going on, and you can join in on it if you subscribe to the WSJ site (it’s free). I’m happy to see that national attention has been brought to this issue which really boils down to the name “Felony Franks” and the fact that a lot of people don’t like it for what ever reason. I don’t understand why people don’t like the theme – those hot dogs painted on the side of the building are very personable, and I kind of feel bad for them.
But let’s get down to the brass tacks here. The media attention is good for three reasons. One – it draws attention to the fact that there is a large amount of reform needed in the area of felony laws, especially those relating to non-violent and “victimless” crimes – if you can say that. Two, it further exposes corrupt politics in Illinois and Three: It exemplifies and exposes the [sometimes] insurmountable problems facing small business owners today in America. The alderman has absolutely no right to deny Jim Andrews his right to put a sign up nor does he have the right to deny him the zoning approval to do the curb-cutting for a drive through. On another note, Father Pfleger, who has always been missing a few nuts and bolts needs to keep his mouth shut. Obviously he doesn’t understand what’s going on here, and I’m making it my personal goal to do a whole string of articles dedicated exclusively to him and his misdeeds.
Anyways, if you have questions you’d like to ask Jim, leave a comment and I’ll see if I can squeeze them into the interview. If not that, maybe support him by stopping by and grabbing a bite to eat with some friends one of these weekends – after all, the food is “So Good, It’s Criminal.”
-Dan

I remember when I first saw him in the news and he seemed like a nice person. For awhile I wondered if what people were saying was true or not. I came to the realization that this image of a nice guy is not a false one. I’m glad he’s getting so much support and I can’t wait to see the interview!
- Margie
You guys are doing this pretty soon right? Cant wait to see how it comes out. I stopped by Felony Franks a few weeks ago and the food is actually pretty darn good, especially compared to most of Chicagos hot dog stands. I dont see what all the hype is about with the food safety I mean do you trust the guys at the other hot dog stands? If anything I bet Felony Franks pays more attention to the food quality and safety than other restaurants.
Hey man,
Sorry haven’t been posting, had some personal issues. I’m glad you’re giving this guy more attention, as he truly has a good heart. Really looking forward to reading the interview.
-bt
Sorry, I have neglected to check my email, blog or anything for a few days. Swamped with homework and just work in general.
Yeah, I was on the phone with Jim yesterday and also with several other people this week. You and everyone else (including me) have a lot to look forward to, trust me. This is going to be way more interesting than you might think.