Former Dayton club back in operation as '212'

A former Dayton club with a troubled past may be operating illegally as a "boot joint," according to police.

The former Club Envy, now known as "212," at 212 S. Ludlow St., was packed Saturday night with people working door security and tending bar, according to a Dayton police report.

The state denied the club's request in 2012 for its liquor license to be renewed after the city successfully fought to close the establishment. It was the site of dozens of police calls each year for fights, disturbances and at least two shootings.

Police said Saturday night there were 50 to 60 people sitting around the bar, which was stocked with liquor bottles fitted with speed-pour nozzles, according to the report.

Police said there were trays of food along one wall, but no heaters or sanitary equipment.

The manager told police the location was operating as a banquet hall and they were not charging for the booze. However, the manager could not provide the officers with any paperwork indicating it's a business permitted to serve food or alcohol, according to the report.

Police took as evidence a sample from a Bacardi rum bottle and investigators noted they planned to alert the state liquor board.

About the Author