Proposed sports bar already drawing ire of some neighbors

Neighbors of a Show-Me's sports bar and restaurant proposed for Ogden Avenue in Naperville say they've already seen enough.

Some of those unhappy residents are scheduled to meet with Mayor George Pradel in the next week to discuss concerns about the proposed establishment, including its late hours and the type of clientele its scantily clad servers might attract.

According to the chain's website, Show-Me's is “committed to providing our customers with a distinctive dining experience in a fun, relaxed environment delivered by attractive, model quality Show-Me's servers.”

During a recent Naperville liquor commission meeting, franchise President Ron Cote said he wants to place his fourth Illinois business at the site of the former Famous Dave's BBQ at 1126 E. Ogden Ave. The chain's three other sites are in Fairview Heights, Springfield and Carbondale.

Pradel, who also serves as city liquor commissioner, said he visited the Springfield location Saturday night and had a cup of coffee while watching the Iowa State-Texas football game. Based on what he observed, Pradel said he thinks the establishment could be a “good fit” for the empty lot along the busy street.

“I went down and took a look and I brought back some information to share with the commission and the (city) council, if it gets that far,” Pradel said Tuesday. “I like that they sell reasonably priced food and more food than beer. And I like that it seems like a nice friendly place to watch a game or have dinner.”

Some neighbors, however, are concerned about the potential of bar patrons leaving the business directly onto Burlington Avenue into a residential community at late hours. Some also are unhappy with the outfits the servers wear.

“I hate seeing empty buildings as much as anyone else, but Show-Me's is pushing half-naked girls and alcohol so I'm not so sure that's much of a step up,” said Michael Lovelace, who lives in a townhouse complex directly south of the proposed restaurant and bar. “At one time Naperville stood out as a family community, but you lose that by allowing this type of place in.”

Donna Raysby can see the building from her window and said she's concerned about the business being open as late as 2 a.m., four hours later than Famous Dave's. Her teenage sons are less concerned.

“They can't wait but I don't want them going there and seeing naked butts either,” she said. “Seriously. This is right next to Chuck E. Cheese and Las Palmas. How does this fit?”

Pradel said he plans to meet with neighbors in the coming week before making a decision. Their concerns are important, he said, but he's gotten enough calls to be pretty sure he knows what they're going to tell him.

“Never in my 16 years as mayor or liquor commissioner have I ever had so many people jump the gun like this on an establishment that doesn't even have a license,” Pradel said. “And I think some of them have the wrong idea about what kind of place this is. You don't go there to gawk at the girls. You go there for service and good food and to watch the game.”

Cote declined to be interviewed Tuesday, saying he wants to meet with Pradel and city officials first.

According to the corporate website, 60 percent to 70 percent of “Show-Me's Girls” are likely to be college students. And 70 percent to 80 percent are former cheerleaders, dance team members, high school and college athletes, and aspiring models.

“Many of our former Show-Me's Girls have gone on to reach their goals of becoming a teacher, social worker, nurse, chiropractor, pilot, NFL cheerleader, model, etc.,” the site states. “We are proud of them and, for us, success for a Show-Me's Girl is far greater than what they are today but, rather, what we hope to foster in them for all their tomorrows.”