The Biz Week That Was: Hawthorn mall plan, indoor golf simulator, and True Value bankruptcy

‘New, improved, evolved’: Revised plan would keep remainder of Hawthorn mall intact

The next step in a comprehensive transformation of the Hawthorn mall property in Vernon Hills aims to build on the success of initial work and keep what remains of the existing 1970s-era shopping center intact. The revised concept would keep 130,000 square feet of existing space in the mall core that was to have been demolished in previous plans.

Indoor golf simulator opens this month in Arlington Heights

With a liquor license in hand and building upgrades partially funded by tax increment financing district monies almost complete, a long-planned golf simulator venue is set to open by month end in Arlington Heights. Golf VX will have a dozen golf bays and restaurant/bar with a robotic bartender. It will be in a 12,000-square-foot big box space at 644 E. Rand Road in the Southpoint Shopping Center.

Greek-themed Libertyville restaurant will transition to West Side Ramen

Owners say their reimagined Mediterranean dishes at Chrissoulas restaurant in downtown Libertyville have been well-received. But after six years, the Dimitriou brothers are permanently changing the menu. Nick and Theo Dimitriou aren’t going anywhere and within a span of a few days later this month, the interior of the Greek-themed Chrissoulas at 602 N. Milwaukee Ave., will be transformed into West Side Ramen.

True Value company enters sale agreement, initiates Chapter 11 proceedings

Chicago-based True Value Company, L.L.C., a leading hardware and durable goods wholesaler, has entered into an agreement to sell substantially all of the company’s business operations to home improvement industry peer Do it Best Corp. For the sale, True Value and some of its affiliates initiated voluntary Chapter 11 proceedings in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware.

Can changes to downtown zoning ordinances help Elgin attract new businesses?

The city of Elgin hopes updates to its downtown zoning ordinances will help attract new businesses while providing flexibility for those already there. The city council unanimously approved four amendments to the city’s downtown code. The changes — designed to eliminate unnecessary delays and reduce application fees for new businesses — were the result of a collaboration between city staff and the Downtown Neighborhood Association.

Wood-fired pizza, handmade pasta coming soon to downtown Aurora

The aroma of wood-fired pizza will soon be wafting through the historic Hobbs Building in downtown Aurora. Giardino Trattoria & Pizzeria will open this fall, promising a garden-inspired atmosphere reflecting its name. The restaurant at 12 N. River St. is a couple of doors down from Leilani Asian Fusion. Both are part of the JH Hospitality Group.