Bar, volleyball given nod

By MARCIA NELESEN ( Contact )   Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2009
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— City plan commission members forwarded a positive recommendation for a new bar with two connected volleyball courts where alcohol would be allowed.

That despite warnings from staff that it is a new concept, and a neighbor's fears that drunk patrons would make her feel unsafe.

Matt Dewitt and Kim Brown want to open Sneakers Bar & Grill in the former Basics Co-op on Woodman Road.

The bar would be 3,000 square feet and offer food, including homemade pizza. DeWitt asked for volleyball games until 10 p.m. on a lighted court, and to serve alcohol on the outdoor patio until closing.

The commission recommended use be granted with these conditions:

-- No lighting on the courts for now.

-- Volleyball games would end at 9 p.m. rather than 10 p.m.

-- No outdoor music.

-- That patio service would end at midnight, although smoking would be allowed until closing.

DeWitt said after the meeting he would have to review the conditions to see if they fit his business plan. He has said volleyball is a key part of the business.

The request will go to the city's alcohol license advisory committee Oct. 6 and likely the council Oct. 12. City staff did not recommend the volleyball court because the bar would be near residences.

"The concept of outdoor volleyball play mixed with a tavern use is new for Janesville and essentially untested within the city," according to a staff memo.

Staff researched similar businesses elsewhere and found they garnered few complaints. If volleyball was approved, staff recommended against allowing lights.

Some residents were concerned about noise, the lights and drunken drivers in their neighborhood. But others said the city should give the owners a chance.

Plan commission member Meredith Helgerson noted her sister lives next to a bar with a volleyball court in Milwaukee.

"There's some noise, some light, but what she's chosen to do is join them rather than beat them," she said.

Nancy Zolidas, another plan commission member, noted noise has been created for years in the neighborhood by the nearby Little League diamonds.







reader COMMENTS (124)
tbs123
Oct 7, 2009 at 11:23 p.m.
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just so you know... I am not a high school friend of Matt's wife. I live in the neighborhood and have for seventeen years. I stated my address before I started speaking. I have known Connie for 24 years, and also stated that in my comments. I guess some people just don't pay attention to anything unless it is exactly what they want to hear.

hannah
Sep 16, 2009 at 12:33 p.m.
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callit- that was funny
I would do the wood floor accented by the oriental rug to anchor whatever grouping is going on top of it. I already yell at the tv when I watch these shows haha. I think it could be more fun in a bar cause then I can actually yell at tv with people instead of by myself at home haha.

CallitasIseeit
Sep 15, 2009 at 7:03 a.m.
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I think if there was a demand for HGTV on big screens in a bar we would see it somewhere. I don't think the bar atmosphere is conducive to that type of television viewing. As people get more intoxicated they talk louder and it would get difficult to hear those soft talking designers mumble about the mauve paint they are going to redo the master bedroom in. And after they got truly trashed there would be slap fights over whether they should keep the hardwood floors bare or put down the oriental rug. The cops would be there all the time, it would be like Corvina's part 2.

CallitasIseeit
Sep 15, 2009 at 6:58 a.m.
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Is it unbelievable an 18 year old is drinking or drinking and driving or is it unbelievable she was drunk and caused an accident? Maybe its unbelievable an 18 year old was able to get liquor? I see articles like this all the time so while it is sad, it is anything but unbelievable.

hannah
Sep 14, 2009 at 7:07 p.m.
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bars are NOT the only place people drink and go drive drunk

"MILTON AVENUE AND KENNEDY ROAD, Janesville, at 10:32 p.m. Sunday. Teresa D. Simons, 18, was driving south in the northbound lane of Milton Avenue when her car struck a truck driven by Nathan A. Moench, 16, of 725 Waveland Road, Janesville. Simons was cited for intoxicated driving, operating while suspended and driving on a divided highway. She was treated and released from Mercy Hospital, Janesville."

pretty sure she wasnt just in a bar!!!! UNBELIEVEABLE

hannah
Sep 14, 2009 at 6:52 p.m.
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we need a bar that will put hgtv on tv. not eVERYBODY want to watch sports!!!!

hannah
Sep 14, 2009 at 4:43 p.m.
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li713-"I live in the neighborhood and am pleased to see that this is being given the go ahead. I am looking forward to being able to grab a burger and watch a game without driving across town"

good point. If we are going to drink a lot and get silly we go down town so we can walk home( but not down the MIDDLE of the road)we are smart enough to stay on the sidewalk! We also don't bother anybody when we walk home. Maybe if there were more bars in the walking distance people wouldn't drive drunk. NO sorry I change my mind most aren't smart enough to do that and will drive drunk.

I wish something would go into old taco bell - look like crap should somebody pull the weeds. Shouldn't the people that still own it take care of the place till it sells? Who would you complain to to get that taken care of?
I think it would make a cute house. I'm sure it could be rezoned since there is houses near by.

li713
Sep 14, 2009 at 4:28 p.m.
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I live in the neighborhood and am pleased to see that this is being given the go ahead. I am looking forward to being able to grab a burger and watch a game without driving across town. The majority of bars and establishments that serve alcohol in this town are in or very near residential areas, without many problems (ex. Spirits, Bad Brad’s, Tremors, Deano’s West, Jumbos, Watering Hole, East Point, Blackbridge Bowl, Elra Bowl, River’s Edge, etc.). This concept has worked in many communities. Given the fact it would be offering something no current establishments do within the city limits, it deserves a chance. The ALAC has proven itself to be effective and persistent in dealing with problem establishments, and I trust them to make the right decision regarding the alcohol at this location. Quite frankly, I’ll be happy to see more business and people in the southern Milton Avenue area. This area is plagued by vacant commercial properties. In recent weeks there have been a number of disturbing crimes, including an armed robbery and a purse snatching in the area. I will be relieved to have more going on in the neighborhood, and feel higher traffic flow would be a deterrent to some of these dangerous crimes. I don’t even feel safe walking my dog anymore. The city should be doing everything it can to encourage businesses to utilize the properties available within the city, instead of constantly building new along the outskirts of town. The bottom line is that we live in a country based on free enterprise. Matt and Kim have the right, with the city’s approval, to try to make a go of this. If there is a demand for it, it will succeed. If not, then this whole argument is a moot point anyway. Maybe it will work, maybe it won’t, but I am glad that the city is giving it the opportunity.

hannah
Sep 14, 2009 at 3:15 p.m.
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callit- true maybe a "role model" for it can be done!!

CallitasIseeit
Sep 13, 2009 at 1:13 p.m.
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Sarahb1-He may not have owned any restaurants directly, but his vision and actions created jobs and opportunities for others to grow businesses including restaurants. It is the trickle down of his actions that helped revitalize Beloit.

gatr
Sep 13, 2009 at 10:45 a.m.
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Beloit has always been light years ahead of Janesville in fine dining and culteral activities. The reason? Beloit College. Janesville has a culture of beer and football on a wide screen. Neither one better than the other, just different. We are 2 communities with our own identities.

SarahB1
Sep 13, 2009 at 6:56 a.m.
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theone: Indeed, Mr. Hendricks loved Beloit and led its survival after Beloit Corporation closed and thousands lost their jobs. However, I can't think of any restaurants that are directly linked to his successful efforts.

theone
Sep 13, 2009 at 1:45 a.m.
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TheJoker wrote..." Beloit can do it, why can't we?"

Well, actually, the late Ken Hendricks was the impetus behind Beloit's ressurrection..

Perhaps it's time for you Joker, to put your money where your mouth is and make your legacy here, as others have done elsewhere...

In other words...put up or shut up.

ihavealife
Sep 12, 2009 at 1:27 p.m.
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Pete... It has always been owned by the Brose family.Terry Campbell didnt own the bowling alley or the bar next door.He did have Diana's Prime Rib on hwy26.Ted Campbell owned Nino's, Milton ave Pub and Therodore's.

hannah
Sep 12, 2009 at 1:11 p.m.
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I remember Campbells bar. I alway knew where to find my grandpa. haha

br549
Sep 12, 2009 at 12:36 p.m.
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I think it was the Gyro Lounge around in the earily 80's and Pips in the late 80's. I could be wrong. (Wouldn't be the first time today.)

whoanellie
Sep 12, 2009 at 12:25 p.m.
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Just what Janesville needs another bar!

hannah
Sep 12, 2009 at 9:23 a.m.
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pete i thought it was late 80's?

hannah
Sep 12, 2009 at 9:22 a.m.
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callit- i guess you STILL cannot hear me when I say lay off. If you dont like my posts then DONT read them. THat is pretty simple to me. ALSO still commmenting on me and NOT the article. DO YOU HAVE SOMETHING TO ADD??


pete- I do remember . They also were shut down? Or just closed cause they couldnt pay bills? Do you remember WHY they shut down exactly? I remember going there and yes gross.

joker - if you think the food isnt good you should get on the board and help do something about it. Assis chef is leaving. He is very talented and creative and I think reg chef doesnt like that so much and WONT do more creative things.

CallitasIseeit
Sep 11, 2009 at 10:56 p.m.
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Vulcanflower- Unfortunately the rules of commenting don't relate to certain people here. Things like spelling well enough to understand what they mean, making sense, being civil or having a point does not pertain to these people.
**
"haha doors we terrible"-?????

vulcanicflower
Sep 11, 2009 at 9:26 p.m.
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hannah-At the risk of repeating myself; What ever it is you're on, next time you decide to sprout off here, please bring enough for everybody. Your posts go from ridiculous to down right idiotic. Maybe you should P R E V I E W your comments before you post. JMO

TheJoker
Sep 11, 2009 at 5:33 p.m.
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Hannah, you assume the Club and the food are worth spending over the minimum! Not! LOL

hannah
Sep 11, 2009 at 5:03 p.m.
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The minimum is only $100 a month. That is 1-2 visits a month. That shouldnt bore you too much. Like I said youre not supporting them much if you only spend $100 a month or are you WAY over your minimum? You seemed to state it like you just met it. I do agree we need more to pick from for those of us that cannot go to the club.
fuddruckers and Perkins are the places like I mentioned that it is TOGO food not "dining "food. SO we agree there!!

R1234
Sep 11, 2009 at 4:41 p.m.
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StuCazzo, your suggestion sounds very interesting. I would like to discuss it with you further and yes, some people were not from the neighborhood.

StuCazzo
Sep 11, 2009 at 4:22 p.m.
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R1234, are you serious? The plan commission went against the neighborhood in favor of testimony from the applicants friends? This is ridiculous, unfair, and an insult to the concept of good representation. With Matt's background obviously not an issue, what's next for Janesville? Gay Nascar bath houses? A brothel, perhaps?

I assume you live near me. I'm going to get together a petition, and I'll bet we get plenty of signatures to keep this place out of neighborhood. Have you talked to the city council? I had an interesting conversation about this subject today.

I don't even want the lights over the volley ball court. There's plenty of light pollution as it is. Since government isn't listening, perhaps it's time to organize a neighborhood association and make them listen.

TheJoker
Sep 11, 2009 at 2 p.m.
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Hannah, my point about going to the Club is that I am tired of this being the only place. When I have already met my minimum, I am looking for better options. Beloit has some great places to eat and I prefer to wine and dine there rather than Fuddruckers or Perkins.

gazettefan
Sep 11, 2009 at 12:38 p.m.
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Don Allison wrote a book about that area:

Blackbridge Road

Hedberg has it and it's for sale at the New World book store in the stip mall across from the Janesville mall.

hannah
Sep 11, 2009 at 12:26 p.m.
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sorry I am wrong I can sometimes hear the garbage truck dumping their recyclables.

hannah
Sep 11, 2009 at 12:24 p.m.
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I am just a few blocks from a whole darn row of bars and I dont hear anything!!

hannah
Sep 11, 2009 at 12:22 p.m.
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yes ihavealife- BIG burgers at slicks on as tiny paper plate. Bathrooms yuk!! care to watch anybody pee? haha doors we terrible.
THeir wine came in a BIG cup also for about $2. I was thinking of Slicks when I mentioned Black bridge because it was very close to neighborhoods.

okay r1234 says the police come to Blackbridge often. Okay why wasnt it on that big list of top police calls to bars/jpac/gas stations/ some other very strange ones.

OH NO I DONT have a scanner- my dad does maybe I should borrow it but how could I hear the tv?

It seems it could get addicting though. I dont have a code book either.

R1234
Sep 11, 2009 at 12:17 p.m.
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Hannah, surely, you jest. I guess you don't have a scanner. You only know what is reported in the Gazette. How naive.

ihavealife
Sep 11, 2009 at 12:09 p.m.
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What difference does one block/street make ?? Has everyone forgotten "SLICKS" ?? Or is it because Slicks was a HIGH CLASS bar ?? LMFAO !Will also say they HAD the best bar food around !

hannah
Sep 11, 2009 at 12:03 p.m.
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true not all can go to the club. I was just specifically speaking to you because you said there wasn't anywhere to take people in Janesville. Why would you go to Beloit if you can take them to the Club?? They need all the business they can get in these times and if you are truly a member you would know what I am talking about . You should support your local business if you are a member.

hannah
Sep 11, 2009 at 11:58 a.m.
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black bridge bowl is close to residential property. Are there any drunks hanging around outside causing trouble. If volleyball closes at 9 pm I dont see a problem. There was a drunk party thing on a street/emply park area by the ball diamonds once and a man died but I dont think this is normal activity either.

Yes true lots of bars, walgreens and box stores and box-chain restaurants

TheJoker
Sep 11, 2009 at 11:53 a.m.
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Hannah, I am glad that you agree with me. I do belong to the Janesville Country Club. I wine and dine people there but I am concerned for the average person in Janesville. They can't come to the Club so their options are limited.
Cracker Barrel?! Boring and bland.

I do blame people in Janesville for not supporting local Mom and Pop restaurants. Maybe this is a telling sign that there is not enough cultured citizens or people who appreciate fine cuisine in Janesville. Beloit can do it, why can't we?

R1234
Sep 11, 2009 at 11:47 a.m.
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StuCazzo, I was there at the meeting. Yes, he had several people support the plan who were not from the immediate neighborhood; some high school friends of his wife, also. Those who objected were from the immediate neighborhood. Ms. Helgerson erroneously stated that they fix cars in the parking lot at Napa Auto Parts, therefore, the residents are used to the noise. She couldn't be more wrong in her assessment. Also, it was brought up that the 5 baseball diamonds generate noise in the summer, however, they close early because there are no lights on the field (another reason to not place a bar in the neighborhood). The issue of safety was summarily dismissed, the issue of Matt's indiscretions regarding his past was also dismissed with the explanation that the ALAC would address it...hmmm. When Matt balked at having to close the volleyball court at 8:00 per Mr. Perotta (Plan Commission), they changed it to 9:00 to satisfy Matt. The neighbors were left feeling that the Plan Commission has let them down. They knew that the property was zoned B1 Community Shopping District, for which they have no problem but that the City Plan Commission decided to grant Conditional Use to a tavern in the area had many shaking their heads and expressing concern as they left the meeting. I suspect that many were left questioning the entire process since there were people in support of Mr. Dewitt at the meeting who really had no ties to the neighborhood but had ties to him, instead, and will not be impacted by the location of this bar. It is really just a bar. Use of the outdoor patio will be in operation all year. Mr. Dewitt's claim that the volleyball is central to his business holds no water. The volleyball courts will only be open a few months per year.

Is your neighborhood next? At the rate that Janesville is adding bars and promoting this type of lifestyle, it puts it out of the running for any type of industry that would employ more than 10-15 people. I doubt that even manufacturing would want to deal with the problems of alcohol in respect to mandates regarding rehab: More bars and more housing turning to rentals as people leave the area in general. Not a good sign.

Opinionsforfree
Sep 11, 2009 at 11:34 a.m.
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"That despite warnings from staff that it is a new concept, and a neighbor's fears that drunk patrons would make her feel unsafe." OMG are you serious? I am sure this place will be safer that Corvina's

hannah
Sep 11, 2009 at 10:55 a.m.
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joker if you re so successful WHY don't you belong to the Janesville country club? If you don't like to golf you can get social only membership. IT IS VERY NICE there!!!! Also have good food and is romantic. You can dine in many different places and different times.

hannah
Sep 11, 2009 at 10:53 a.m.
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gfan- no the lannin stone hahah

callit- you should see why writing if you think spelling and grammar are bad. I think this is why I write so poorly is because I cannot spell well. If you cannot read it you may not know it is spelled wrong! I could also blame it on being left handed?!

I can do calligraphy well though go figure.

Interesting article on msn here enjoy
http://lifestyle.msn.com/your-life/just-...

1- no slant

I finally agree with joker- well sorta there ARE lots of mom and pop eating places although like I mentioned not many romantic - business(fancy) like places. Just speakeasy, Armory, metro
and no not a lot with ethnic flare.

spark
Sep 11, 2009 at 10:12 a.m.
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Joker - You can blame the people that live here. There has been attempts at original restaurants only to fail because people don't frequent them. They would rather go to Apple-bees. That's the real shame.

StuCazzo
Sep 11, 2009 at 10:05 a.m.
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Hey Joker, you can always take them to the Cracker Barrel. Janesville's finest restaurant.

gazettefan
Sep 11, 2009 at 9:57 a.m.
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joker, I guess when in Janesville you'll have to take your women to the usual place, Chez Crawlspace.

TheJoker
Sep 11, 2009 at 9:49 a.m.
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Mayhem, please enlighten me on home grown restuarants. Where could I take a women for a nice romantic dinner? Where could I take an out of town business client to lunch or dinner?
I find that I have to go to Beloit to do this. Real shame.

StuCazzo
Sep 11, 2009 at 9:40 a.m.
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Let's get back to the story at hand, this bar. I just read that city staff was against volleyball courts because of the potential for noise/etc.

Interesting that the plan commission went ahead with it against recommendations.

So it needs 3 conditional use permits even to open. I wonder how many people who spoke at the PC meeting were from then neighborhood directly and not just friends of Matt and Kim. Don't they require you to register, and use your address at these meetings?

hannah
Sep 11, 2009 at 9:35 a.m.
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yes what is you point? My point is to lay off!! I see you still dont get it.

CallitasIseeit
Sep 11, 2009 at 9:33 a.m.
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
ihavealife
Sep 11, 2009 at 9:18 a.m.
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callitasiseeit....But it's okay for you to ALWAYS comment on hannah's spelling ??? Grow up and just move on...you don't comment on the story/news just on what hannah has done or not done...it's really old !!

hannah
Sep 11, 2009 at 9:16 a.m.
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callit- it isnt any worse than you making fun of me all the time. I see you can dish it but cannot take it.

gazettefan
Sep 11, 2009 at 8:48 a.m.
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callit... what expletives. And it's low-brow to focus on typos.

mayhem08
Sep 11, 2009 at 8:37 a.m.
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Does joker live under a rock to say there are no mom and pop places to eat in Janesville??

CallitasIseeit
Sep 11, 2009 at 7:26 a.m.
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I would think the Gazette would eliminate Hannah as a user on this site for her foul and vulgar comments to me. At least she can properly spell expletives.

SarahB1
Sep 11, 2009 at 12:58 a.m.
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StuCazzo: I certainly hope you wash your hands after your favorite "outlet," especially if you take part in it just before dinner.

StuCazzo
Sep 11, 2009 at 12:47 a.m.
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
vulcanicflower
Sep 10, 2009 at 9:07 p.m.
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hannah-What ever it is you're on, next time you decide to sprout off here, please bring enough for everybody.

gazettefan
Sep 10, 2009 at 5:26 p.m.
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joker, you still need to work on your racism. You see it it everywhere where it isn't. Take off the sheet and look at the real world.

hannah
Sep 10, 2009 at 4:55 p.m.
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pete- trouble doesn't start till about 11 haha. Not funny but if you go nothing going on at 9pm. 11-245 is when it can get bad. Looking glass seems quieter since people cannot dance on the bar anymore.

Looking Glass has awesome breakfast on Sat am but last time I went some people (white- trashy trouble makers if you must know joker) thought they were still in there at 245 am. It was horrible to listen to them. I forgot I was in a bar I guess eating breakfast.

hannah
Sep 10, 2009 at 4:48 p.m.
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joker"...type of thinking that causes racial tension..."

yes I felt that tension when I walked into corvinas. SO who is racist????

hannah
Sep 10, 2009 at 4:45 p.m.
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it isnt racist- show me a gangster volleyball team please. I dont mean a black team of players a GANGSTER team- YOURE RACIST thinking gangsters are only black. DUH!!!

Did I say a black team NO I did not.
My comment to you was to stop saying Corvinas is closed because of racism.

I dont need to see anybody if I dont like gangster wanabees and trash that is full of trouble. Get off you racist riot.

TheJoker
Sep 10, 2009 at 4:39 p.m.
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Hannah, your comment about gangster wannabees not playing volleyball is racist. You assume that people of color or the people that went to Corvina's do not play volleyball. It is exactly this ass backwards type of thinking that causes racial tension. You sound like a very angry and troubled person. I suggest you talk to someone about this before it gets the worst of you.

hannah
Sep 10, 2009 at 4:07 p.m.
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oops gluteus maximus I mean.

hannah
Sep 10, 2009 at 3:59 p.m.
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mespl" Rosanne of all people it actually took me a few minutes just to get over the shock that you would use that in an argument. Ok.."

I dont understand what you don't get about these restaurants are not (i will use the correct word as not to confuse you) romantic. Yes I really want to go to Sams, Jim's or Italian house for an anniversary celebration like Rosanne would. Get it now?

hannah
Sep 10, 2009 at 3:55 p.m.
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joker- same advice to you- get over your racist idea of why the bar closed. I cannot see any gangster wan to bees wanting to play volleyball so I dont really see a problem here.

hannah
Sep 10, 2009 at 3:50 p.m.
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callit- i will try spell check and you can try to shove it up your a$$

hannah
Sep 10, 2009 at 3:49 p.m.
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callit- on my butt again. BUZZ off would you!!

Any thing to add or just b$%$#%ing about spelling and grammar again!!?

hannah
Sep 10, 2009 at 3:48 p.m.
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mespl if you would have read my comment about using the word romantical- rossanne said it in a show. I was trying to be funny - DUH. please reread. Sorry I dont know how to really spell romantical because it isnt a WORD!

in_my_opinion
Sep 10, 2009 at 3:16 p.m.
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I have to agree with those that have stated the owner's personal past alchohol and drug charges should bar him from opening up shop.
I also agree that the last thing Janesville needs is another bar.

jj1968
Sep 10, 2009 at 3 p.m.
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I live in the neighborhood (2 blocks away) and would love to see this place open.

TheJoker
Sep 10, 2009 at 2:49 p.m.
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I love how some people are more than happy to welcome another bar to the city even though the owner has been in trouble with the law! But if the bar attracted patrons of color, you would be falling all over yourselves bashing this new bar. Sound familiar? Hmm...I recall a bar in downtown Janesville that was shut down because of problems outside the bar. So, if the patrons of the new bar start to hang out in front of the bar or walk or puke on people's lawns, should the place be closed down?

If you think this is good because the new bar will create jobs, then you are a fool. More than likely, it will contribute to people losing jobs. Nothing against bars or drinking. I frequent and do both. Let the market decide it's future. If it can make it, good for them.

I do like the idea for an Italian restaurant. Janesville has no original Mom & Pop type or ethnic eating establishments. I am tired of all of the chain restaurants or Chinese buffet
places. Nothing unique or original. I wish we could have the great restaurants like Beloit has!

mespl
Sep 10, 2009 at 2:35 p.m.
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Hannah: I cannot believe that you used the word “romantical” when trying to argue your point. I try not to pick on you for your spelling or grammar however I am truly shocked that you would use that word and then quote Rosanne of all people it actually took me a few minutes just to get over the shock that you would use that in an argument. Ok I am better now.

CallitasIseeit
Sep 10, 2009 at 2:21 p.m.
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Ha ha ha "expestional"???? That may be the best one EVER! The first suggestion on spell check is expositional. Is that what you meant?

hannah
Sep 10, 2009 at 1:45 p.m.
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another example of italian food that is YUMMY

RoseBuds in the chicago area. they have at least 6 restaurants.

Sanford in milwaukee YUMMY!!!!

No you cannot go here every day like sams, it house, jims- this is togo food if you ask me not DINING food.

hannah
Sep 10, 2009 at 1:43 p.m.
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areyoulistening- I do go to those places. la esquienta is good too but those places arent a real dining experience- not romantical(like rosanne would say)italian house is good too but I would sometimes prefer to dine in a place with china and expestional service and fanccy food and wine list.

this is me- yes I know of those two BUT not a dining experience and not true italian food. just mainly pasta stuff. Nothing original I mean.
unidentified seems to know what I mean.

did Sams fixed the cracked windows YET?? The place is gross inside if you ask me!!

thisisme
Sep 10, 2009 at 1:22 p.m.
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Hannah--- Sam's is right there on the corner of where they're talking about. Jim's Pizza is on the other side of town. Two non chain Italian restaurants. Both VERY good.

Unidentified
Sep 10, 2009 at 1:18 p.m.
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Sorry, but Italian house is not that good. It's decent food at a reasonable price, but far from good Italian food. They don't even know what real Italian bread is supposed to taste like. Their sauce taste like sugar and their bread taste like a sweet roll. Only a local would think that place is good Italian food. Growing up with a heavy Italian population and having Italian family members, I've had my share of real Italian food. If you want a lot of food at a good price, then Italian house is the place to go. However, if you want decent Italian food then move to another city or state. The only good Italian food I've had in the area was at Sweet Aroma in Delavan, but unfortunately the owners moved the business.

jvldss
Sep 10, 2009 at 1:05 p.m.
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Poor neighbors won't be able to sleep at 8:30 over all the drunken arguments, "it was in, no it was out".
Do these neighbors compalin about all the noise on Fridays and Saturdays as they are on one end of the Milton Avenue circuit. It could be good entertainment to have a few drunk drivers mix in with all those teeny boppers racing up and down Milton Avenue.

areyouevenlistening
Sep 10, 2009 at 12:59 p.m.
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StuCazzo- your looking for a place to go out in town thats not a chain? Why not Italian House in its NEW BUILDING on Racine St. Edmond makes the best Italian dishes and thtas just one place. Did you know you can dine in at Sams? They also have a FULLmenu of Italian dishes along with Steaks and some Seafood items Also NOT a chain! Oh and if your looking for Thai food whats wrong with Nee's Taste Of Thai? Mexican?- El Jardin! StuCazzo you obviously just have a problem with the potential owners of this new bar. I say go for it Kim I like the idea I just don't know if this is the right location, might just be the right price but in the long term it might be a bad choice if it gets shut down by the city because of its location, might want to really think again, again Kim I love the idea just not its spot. And StuCazzo you should check out some of the locally owned resturants I spoke of, that you were somehow unaware of. Good luck Kim and Matt

want2knowmore
Sep 10, 2009 at 12:53 p.m.
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I pretty much agree, but I tend to look at who doesn't pay their taxes on the WI DOR website. Why should I give any business my money that doesn't pay it's taxes and support their wrong doing? Thus the reason I will not go to Cafe Belwah (chef) or the Metro!

hannah
Sep 10, 2009 at 12:31 p.m.
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A italian place like Bellini in madison would be cool. It used to be a church and really good food!!

hannah
Sep 10, 2009 at 12:29 p.m.
Suggest removal

bistro isnt good anymore.
hffggrrgg.. is SOOOOOOOOOOO loud now.

metro yes good.
armory good too but yes menu is sorta lame compared to what it used to be in the lietuniants lounge.
yes speakeasy can get pricy

the milw grill has a heafty glass of wine;)

fusion 5's chef is at cafe belwah in beloit- good stuff there.


go to restaurant.com

a special coupon deal $1 for a $25 coupon ends sept 13th. when you buy plug in promo code ninety

lots of places to pick from but not in janesville except for hffggrrhh(yes sp)

"Hey, wait a minute. Didn't the city turn down Jim Halbach because he wanted to buy Vine and Vat and make it into a bar. "
yes but maybe they didnt want him to have it and have little girls dance around naked. oh well boo hoo for you - NOT

Reilly_202
Sep 10, 2009 at 12:15 p.m.
Suggest removal

There's also the Metropolitan and the Bistro.

browntown96
Sep 10, 2009 at 12:13 p.m.
Suggest removal

Metropolitan is a nice place. Also, there will be a new Seafood-Steak place going in to the strip mall by shopko soon.

Macdaddy
Sep 10, 2009 at 12:07 p.m.
Suggest removal

other restaurants i frequent and enjoy. Milwaukee Grill & Hhffrrrggh's

jowner
Sep 10, 2009 at 12:06 p.m.
Suggest removal

By the way. For anyones information. Bobbleheads in not in the city.

Macdaddy
Sep 10, 2009 at 12:06 p.m.
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I enjoy the speakeasy. It is a little pricey but the food is great. There's one.

jowner
Sep 10, 2009 at 12:04 p.m.
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Hey, wait a minute. Didn't the city turn down Jim Halbach because he wanted to buy Vine and Vat and make it into a bar. They said it was too close to a residentual district. It probably would have been ok'd if he had a volleyball court in the rear parking lot.

StuCazzo
Sep 10, 2009 at 12:02 p.m.
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Sometimes I swear that the average Janesville resident, if presented a plate that includes decent seafood ,or, the horrors!, vegetables, they'd immediately become paralyzed with fear.

StuCazzo
Sep 10, 2009 at 11:59 a.m.
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Since we started talking about restaurants, name one original, decent place to eat on a night out that isn't a national chain, or The Armory. The armory fairly recently pared there menu down. What do we have? I'm tired of having to drive all the way to Madison for a decent restaurant scene. In a city the size of ours, there should definitely be better choices. I'm so sick of either fake mexican, or burgers. I'd probably have a heart attack on the spot if, gasp, a good Thai place opened.

Trish
Sep 10, 2009 at 11:58 a.m.
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It has been years since I have gone to a bar but doesn't Three B's have a sand volleyball court still? I remember playing there a few years back.

Unidentified
Sep 10, 2009 at 11:27 a.m.
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Look every town has bars. Some bars are reputable establishments with good owners and good clientele. However, it's troublesome to me when the topic of bars seems to lead the news stories of the local paper on regular basis. Bars in trouble, bars closing down, bars opening up. A few drinks with friends from time to time is great. However, a bar should not be a way of life. That's a pathetic statement. If this city settles with that philosophy, then that's all it will ever be.

Janesvegas26
Sep 10, 2009 at 11:08 a.m.
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Volleyball at bars is not a new concept in this town. Like sickofyou said Bobbleheads has had it for a while and other bars like the watering hole and Boggtotters have been pursuing building courts on their sites as well and are just waiting for approval. It is a good idea if you ask me to get a few leagues going in Janesville, currently I play in a league at the Afton Pub and that is all fine and good but it is out of the way and a lot of people go all the way out there to play and drink, then they drive home. Plus people need to stop complaining about bars...face it in this town it is a way of life. If you don't agree with bars or the people in them, then stay home and quit whining. Not to mention Janesville needs all the business we can get. Good for these people for taking a chance, good luck to you!

hannah
Sep 10, 2009 at 10:33 a.m.
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johndoe"I wonder if people would be happy with a nice, quiet Itallian restaurant (a decent restaurant that isn't a big box chain)instead? Where diners can get soused on wine and drive through the same neighborhood?

Hmmmm. just wonder'n....
"

I keep waiting for something like this or GREEK - YUMMMM!!!

lovethemidwest
Sep 10, 2009 at 10:06 a.m.
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Im so tired of hearing people whine about new businesses. Same thing when BWW opened. People crying about the chains coming to JVL and on and on. Well I highly doubt the city has turned away any non-chain type restaurants. Fact is they arent breaking down the doors to open an establishment here in JVL. Quit crying about it, its pathetic.

StuCazzo
Sep 10, 2009 at 9:03 a.m.
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Sigh. Go ahead, Kim, pretend you are someone else. Who cares though, it's not important. What IS important is that people with a history of drug and alcohol abuse should no be licensed. It historically leads to problems.

Are you saying he's reformed? Then well, he needs to make a case for that fact to the tax paying public in the neighborhood. As for being just another bar; if it weren't for the volleyball, it'd be just another bar. One of far too many places to go and get your bud light lime drink on. Do something different. I'm always surprised that the people of Janesville always choose the lowest common denominator. There's as much skill in the planning department as their is in 4 year old kindergarten. Only when kids play with blocks, property values don't plummet.

Unidentified
Sep 10, 2009 at 8:46 a.m.
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Positives? It's a damn bar. There is no shortage of bars in town. There is a volley ball court right at Palmer Park hardly anyone uses. So the only way to play is if alcohol is attached? Nobody wants to organize a non bar related league? There is no shortage of unused park space to build more courts if there was demand outside of alcohol. Holly crap, it really is that bad.

Kriley
Sep 10, 2009 at 8:36 a.m.
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I am looking forward to this place opening, there are some great bars in madison and beloit that have Volleyball leagues, unfortunately to drive that far to play is not always worth it.

Janesville needs something like this! It's really to bad that everyone seems to always have a bad thing to say in Janesville instead of being a little optimistic and taking the chance by looking for the positives.

Good luck with the new business, I'll be signing up a team to play.

browntown96
Sep 10, 2009 at 8:29 a.m.
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Stucazzo-When you get done patting yourself on the back for your detective work, pull your head out, not Kim Brown. But you made me laugh with your "aha moment". Too funny.

Unidentified
Sep 10, 2009 at 8:08 a.m.
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Oh joy another bar. I'm glad city officials are right on top of economic development. Janesville... City of Parks, Bars, and Box Stores.

vulcanicflower
Sep 10, 2009 at 6:57 a.m.
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Digging up one's past is a clear indicator of what the future will bring. Second, third, fourth chances only serve to give the offender more reasons to continue with their criminal activity.

Macdaddy
Sep 10, 2009 at 6:46 a.m.
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Just curious, but as far as i know, many bars are near residential neighborhoods, aren't they? (Club 709, Watering Hole, Bad Brad's, etc.) why is this one any different? Also, all those who love to be Matlock and dig up people's past, doesn't a person deserve a second chance? I know there are things in my past I am not proud of, but that is not a reflection of who I am now. Just an Opinion.
.
Cheers!

hunee1
Sep 10, 2009 at 5:10 a.m.
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To all of you that are wagging fingers,tsk tsk-ing, and nay saying... why don't you lease the property yourself and see what others have to say about what "YOU" think should go there. I support Kim 100%

sickofyou
Sep 10, 2009 at 3:16 a.m.
Suggest removal

Bobble Heads on 51 in Janesville has volleyball and has for awhile

nurse4u
Sep 10, 2009 at 2:16 a.m.
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Volleyball would be a good idea. The patrons would use up the calories they consume from the alcohol..

SarahB1
Sep 10, 2009 at 12:33 a.m.
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My condolences to the neighbors. Unfortunately, a nearby bar will likely decrease your property values.

JohnDoe
Sep 9, 2009 at 11:53 p.m.
Suggest removal

I wonder if people would be happy with a nice, quiet Itallian restaurant (a decent restaurant that isn't a big box chain)instead? Where diners can get soused on wine and drive through the same neighborhood?

Hmmmm. just wonder'n....

R1234
Sep 9, 2009 at 11:46 p.m.
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I agree with you, Annie. I don't know what the City Plan Commission was thinking when they put it forward. The drivers who have been drinking are given a green light to drive through a residential area to visit an establishment placed there for economic reasons by the Commission but the Good Humor man can't drive the same street and sell ice cream. Sounds like a decision right out of Washington D.C.'s playbook

StuCazzo
Sep 9, 2009 at 11:35 p.m.
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Bottom line is that I have serious questions about the safe operation of such a place in a residential neighborhood. Given that there is a factual issue of substance abuse,by the operator, this concerns me greatly. Liquor licenses/operator licenses are issued with a certain amount of public trust and responsibility.

StuCazzo
Sep 9, 2009 at 11:28 p.m.
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Yeah, since I'm all for transparency, Howya doin' Kim Brown (Browntown) Of course you are, well, for your own business idea. I would expect nothing less. Now, how about those "good" jobs in this terrible economy. Do you offer your employee's health insurance? I doubt it.

JohnDoe
Sep 9, 2009 at 11:25 p.m.
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I'm looking forward to StuCazzo turning the place into "something that Janesville can be proud of" if it turns out that it doesn't fit DeWitt's "business plan."

StuCazzo
Sep 9, 2009 at 11:13 p.m.
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let me guess, this venue will also feature the fabulous joy that is Country Music. Yawn.

How about being creative with that space and doing something that Janesville can be proud of? Yay, another miller/bud light beer bar with big screen tv's and ton of Nascar/packer jackets in the crowd.

StuCazzo
Sep 9, 2009 at 11:08 p.m.
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Browntown, My concern is with the location, and the operator, not the concept. I firmly believe that people with a history of alcohol AND drug abuse aren't the best people in the world to run bars. And seriously, how many Sports Bars do we freakin' have already? How about a decent restaurant that isn't a big box chain? And don't give me that crap about jobs. Yeah, a handful of part-time, low-wage, no-benefit jobs. That's what Janesville needs for sure.

browntown96
Sep 9, 2009 at 10:51 p.m.
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Stucazzo-I'll take more jobs in an economy where there are no jobs to be found. Also, it will be nice that people here don't have to drive out of town to be on a volleyball league. I'm glad negative, close minded people like you aren't making decisions for the city of Janesville.

annie50
Sep 9, 2009 at 10:43 p.m.
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The concept is a good idea.......just not the location. It would be too close to a residential area and ruin the quiet neighborhood. It will be a bar. People are not going to be quiet playing volleyball. So, I'm not sure why people think there won't be a lot of noise. There will be music and that building is not so soundproof as to stifle the loudness from the music. Again, the idea is good but please find another location.

StuCazzo
Sep 9, 2009 at 10:25 p.m.
Suggest removal

I think this bar is a bad idea. The location, with intersecting streets and an uncontrolled intersection is unsafe as it is. Let's add alcohol to the mix. Also, the operator, Mr. DeWitt, has convictions for OWI and Possession of Drugs. That's what we need; A licensed operator, who is responsible for deciding when customers have had enough, who himself has a history of drug and alcohol abuse. It's akin to licensing a day care provider who has a history of being a pedophile.

Is the plan commission so desperate for business development that they ignore safety complaints? Who cares about Milwaukee. This is Janesville, and I enjoy our safe, community. Just what we need; another sports bar. Only this time, it's dangerous.

vulcanicflower
Sep 9, 2009 at 9:53 p.m.
Suggest removal

This De Witt fellow is probably related to the two De Witt brothers currently trying to open a bar in Vernon County, WI. Between the two of them they have a total of 46 offenses on the courts web site. This guy has his share as well. Maybe the City of Janesville, as well as Vernon County, ought to look at these prospective bar owners just a little closer? JMO

Macdaddy
Sep 9, 2009 at 9:14 p.m.
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its true OnWisconsin. Janesville has been behind times for a long time. I grew up in Green Bay and many bars had volleyball courts both indoor and outdoor. They even had indoor rugby on the sand courts and flag football. Its a lot of fun.

OnWisconsin
Sep 9, 2009 at 8:58 p.m.
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Did i read this article right? There are no bars in Janesville that have v-ball courts? There are a few in Beloit and they are very popular and fun!

janesvillean
Sep 9, 2009 at 7:35 p.m.
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I like the concept -- a little like the North Beach Club in Chicago, which I've been to -- and I appreciate the innovation. I hope that they can do it despite the 9pm closing, because existing neighbors don't need to be subjected to a new raucous source of noise any later than that.

dukes
Sep 9, 2009 at 6:12 p.m.
Suggest removal

This is good news. A business will be filling a vacant building, I believe the VB court is a new concept for the area, and I look forward to watching Favre get sacked on the big screen once they open!

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