Ace Bartenders owners purchase The Club at Blackthorne for $3.9M amid zoning dispute

The future of a planned restaurant within Penn Township’s Blackthorne Estates hinges on an upcoming zoning meeting, as new ownership faces a formal challenge from developers over the facility’s use. Blackthorne Investors is challenging the occupancy permit issued to The Club at Blackthorne, arguing against the operation of a restaurant within the housing community, according to township solicitor Michael Korns. The matter is slated for discussion at the township’s next zoning hearing board meeting, set for 7 p.m. Feb. 12 at the municipal building. New ownership, new plans The challenge comes as Anthony and Leah Cifelli, ages 40 and 43, take the reins of the 36,000-square-foot facility. The couple purchased the clubhouse in December from former owner Jeannine Schemm for $3.9 million, according to Westmoreland County property tax records. The Cifellis, who own the 10-year-old bar service company Ace Bartenders, have worked at the venue since it began hosting weddings in 2020. While they plan to continue hosting weddings and private events on the upper level, they are working to finish a restaurant space on the bottom floor — a project that was about 30% complete when they took ownership. “I think anyone in the wedding and events industry, any
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