Wed. October 27, 2004
Chicago, IL -
A Cook County Circuit Court judge ruled on October 19th that an initiative to ban alcohol sales in the precinct that includes Circuit Nightclub, 3641 N. Halsted, won't be on the November 2nd ballot.
Judge Raymond Jagielski said petitions filed on August 3, 2004 by Evelyn and Tom DiLisio didn't contain enough valid signatures from registered voters. The ruling came in response to challenges against the petitions filed by the owners of Circuit Nightclub.
The proposition would have allowed area residents to vote the precinct fully dry, which could have effectively shut Circuit down.
At the time of the filing, Alderman Tom Tunney wrote in a July letter opposing the initiative that "The proposed move could change the character of this area forever."
The ruling which is seen as a victory for Circuit is a defeat for the DiLisios, residents of the Dakota, 3631 N. Halsted, who began complaining and mounting regulatory challenges against the popular nightclub as soon as they moved into the condominium development located next door about two and a half years ago.
Although Circuit was there long before the Dakota, the new residents began complaining almost immediately about the neighborhood noise. In response to those complaints, Circuit's owners have spent almost $200,000 reinforcing the club's soundproofing. While most Dakota residents have said that has solved the noise problem, the DiLisios began gathering signatures for the “dry vote.”
Both Mike Macharello and Patrick Harms, co-owners of Circuit are elated over the ruling. "We are appreciative of the many people that went to bat for us and we are very happy that the efforts have paid off."
Circuit is planning a Victory Celebration on Thursday, November 4th at Cell Block, 3702 N. Halsted, between 9-11pm. Supporters are welcome to join in the celebration which includes a light buffet.
Circuit Nightclub remains closed since late August when the club voluntarily closed for the completion of some necessary renovations and re-decorating.
“We wanted to be open by Halloween but we decided to do a few extra things while we're closed. If all goes well, we want to be open by the end of November, still within our advertised goal of a fall opening. I promise, it will be worth the wait,” stated Macharello.
"Circuit/Rehab. version 2.0" coming in early fall will include: Improved restroom facilities, Improved ventilation, One of the countries finest, all-digital JBL surround sound systems, The largest dance floor in "boys-town", New and improved dance floor & light show, New bar service areas, Completely re-decorated rooms including Rehab, All-new Thursday/Sunday Latin dance parties, Fresh DJ line-up for Saturday nights, New daily specials and features, and more.
Club goers are encouraged to check the club's website at http://www.circuitclub.com for updated information on Circuit.
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