The city of Tampa ruled last year that the club is operating illegally as an adult business. The property is not zoned for such an establishment. But Melfi contends the establishment is only a social club for persons involved in an alternative lifestyle - not an adult business. He is appealing the case in circuit court and says he'll remain open until his appeals are exhausted. Alcohol and drugs are prohibited at the club, Melfi said.
Patrons arrive and leave the club quietly.
And membership includes many respected, white-collar professionals, he said. Louis Klar, one of the leading protesters against the club, said he believes the club's days are numbered in Seminole Heights. Residents and city officials aren't the only ones challenging the club. Police also have charged Melfi with operating an unlicensed adult business. Undercover Tampa police have reported that patrons openly engage in sex inside the club, often while others watch.