Chicago strip club gets award for efforts to improve neighborhood

CHICAGO -- A strip club on the northwest side of Chicago has received a neighborhood award for its efforts to improve the area.

Albany Park Neighbors decided this month to give one of six "Block Star Business" awards to the Admiral Theatre. The group's website says the award is meant to spotlight businesses working to keep the neighborhood clean and beautiful, as well as provide top-notch customer service.

One member of the group tells the Sun-Times that the Admiral did a great job tidying up during recent construction work on the building's facade.

The club's creative director says it employs workers whose tasks include maintaining the block by collecting trash and sweeping sidewalks. He says the club plans to frame the certificate and display it in the main lobby.

The Admiral Theatre has previously made headlines for trying to help the community. CBS Chicago reported that the club offered a free lap dance to anyone who donated an unused, unwrapped toy before Christmas. In 2010, the effort raised five carloads of toys.