LIMA — Club Octane marks one year since its grand reopening this Saturday, establishing itself as a notable nightspot on Lima's North Street. Owner Chadwick Rice, 37, purchased the club in 2023 from Thomas Richie, who had operated it as Somewhere in Time since 1974 at 804 W. North St.
According to Rice, the club closed in March 2024 for an 18-month renovation and marketing change. He noted that the club had faced past challenges, with some community members seeking its closure. Rice stated his determination to succeed, saying, "I noticed that there was a pathway in Lima for something that was bold."
Since the 1970s, the venue has served as a fixture in Ohio’s LGBTQ community. Rice emphasized that Club Octane maintains respect for its historical roots while operating with a somewhat different approach today.
Rice detailed his extensive background in nightlife, having worked in various roles such as bartending, barbacking, and serving since he was 19. He funded his EMT schooling through his work in the industry. Rice explained his motivation for owning the club, stating he once sought community in similar spaces himself. He expressed a desire to support young people by ensuring such venues remain available as queer spaces are diminishing.
When comparing Club Octane to other queer nightlife destinations in Ohio, Rice highlighted its size and its consistent drag performances. He stated that by both square footage and footprint, Club Octane is the largest in northern Ohio and southwest Indiana. The club also hosts the state’s largest consistent running drag performance, with a show every Saturday. Rice noted the club's commitment to clean entertainment, stating he does not promote the idea of objectification for pay.
Key figures within Club Octane's operations include Dev the Creator, who holds the title of Ms. Octane. Dev the Creator has been crowned for two consecutive years in the Ms. Octane pageants and will retain the title until 2027. Rice shared that watching Dev develop their craft is a favorite aspect of running the club. He also praised Justyce Sinclaire, the stage director, who has performed on stages nationwide since the 1980s, including with the Hamburger Mary Troop in Toledo. Both Dev the Creator and Justyce Sinclaire are instrumental in leading the club’s community outreach efforts.
Club Octane has demonstrated its commitment to the community through various initiatives. Last year, the club won the Christmas Tree Festival Contest. It also self-catered 40 meals for local families and contributes to the women and children’s shelter. Rice expressed hope that the community would reciprocate this support.
For the anniversary weekend, visitors can anticipate performances from artists traveling from Florida, Chicago, Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio. The event will also feature a live DJ and ample opportunities for dancing. Rice mentioned that all tables for the anniversary are reserved, with only bar-top space remaining. He affirmed the club’s intention to be a lasting presence in Lima.
Rice addressed perceptions that Club Octane is exclusively for the queer community, clarifying that his aim is to empower all individuals to be themselves. He stated that the space is open to everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation. Rice urged Lima residents to support the club, particularly in a town where many businesses have closed, encouraging them not to let the same happen to Club Octane.
