Go-Go Bar Now Juice Bar
By DON STINE
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Centerfolds, a go-go bar at the Asbury Park traffic circle on Route 35 in Neptune, no longer has a liquor license, which, in turn, means the dancers no longer have their tops.
Centerfolds had its license revoked by the state Division of Alcohol Beverage Control in a Nov. 28 settlement after it was found that the club allowed improper lap dances with customers in 2005 and 2006.
Last week the club switched from a go-go bar, serving alcohol, to a juice bar, where no alcohol is served. While serving alcohol, the club had to adhere to state laws requiring dancers keep their breasts and bottoms covered. Without the liquor license, these laws no longer apply and dancers are free to wear little or nothing at all.
Patrons are also allowed to bring their own beer or wine. There is currently a $15 cover charge and a purchase requirement of at least one non-alcoholic drink, which costs $4.
Neptune Administrator Philip D. Huhn said the club has had a cabaret/adult entertainment variance for at least 20 years, which allows nudity if no alcohol is served.
It is a pre-existing, nonconforming use, he said.
Huhn said he believes the variance would probably be rescinded if the club were ever to close.
Neptune Township Attorney Gene Anthony said the age limit to enter the club will probably be 18 years old now that no alcohol is being served.
The cashier at Centerfolds door Tuesday night said the age for admission is indeed now 18. Wrist bands are issued to monitor drinking-age patrons, much like it is done at many other clubs at the Jersey Shore.
Anthony said he believes a state statute requires patrons be at least 18 years old to enter Centerfolds.
There is a state statute that deals with sexually-oriented businesses. They must have signs saying the premise is off limits to minors – anyone under 18 years old. This is true of adult bookstores or other similar businesses, he said.
I am assuming the same state statue applies here, Anthony said.
Officials at the state Division of Alcohol Beverage Control said they have no say on control issues at Centerfold since it no longer has a liquor license.
Centerfolds is owned by Vincent P. Spalliero, son of Anthony Spalliero, the Marlboro-based developer who recently pleaded guilty to paying former Marlboro Mayor Matthew V. Scannapeico $100,000 in bribes for development rights in the township.
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