Story posted Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Sim's Bowl Rocks Out On Final Nights Before Closing
The bowling alleys and restaurant were already closed, but the cocktail lounge at Sim's Bowl in Des Plaines went out with four bands over two nights last weekend.
The business at 1555 Ellinwood St. shut down the first two parts on Sunday, June 7. But a final weekend of music was still planned. On Friday, June 12, Tripple Shot and Betty Floored played from 8 p.m. until closing. On Saturday, June 13, Lil Sister & The Bullies and Phat Cats closed the business during the same hours.
Owner Jim Capparelli planned to have at least one of the bands play in the larger, bowling area portion of the building, enabling fans of all ages to come in and see the shows.
Capparelli's parents and aunt opened the bowling alley 55 years ago. He blames its demise on several factors. "Bowling itself is part of the problem," he said. The house has seen its number of leagues drop off from a high of about 30 leagues each week. "We were down to six this year," he said.
"It's an older establishment; it hasn't been modernized," Capparelli continued. He explained the building is in a Tax Increment Financing district and has been for 20 years. "We always thought it would be bought by a developer," he said. "(TIFs) can make or break you."
After the bands' final notes rang out on Saturday, the Capparelli ownership of the alley ended. But Jim doesn't think that will be the end of the business. "I think there'll be a buyer and he'll be the operator of a bowling alley, a restaurant, and a cocktail lounge," he said.
However, long term, Capparelli still thinks the economy holds the key to the area. "If the economy improves, it will be redeveloped along with the rest of the block."
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