Late-Night Revelries in Columbia: Bars Face Liquor License Denials Amid Community Concerns

Late-Night Revelries in Columbia: Bars Face Liquor License Denials

Columbia, SC — In a vibrant area known as Five Points, a hotspot that has drawn countless college students over the years, the buzz of nightlife could soon face some challenges. Recently, two popular bars in the area, Group Therapy and Saloon, have hit a snag with state authorities regarding their liquor licenses. As of now, both establishments have been denied renewals of their licenses and are navigating a complex legal process that could affect their future operations.

What’s Going On?

The South Carolina Department of Revenue announced the hiccup, specifying that both bars have 90 days to resolve complaints raised against them. Those complaints stem from protests filed by former Wales Garden Neighborhood Association President Coley Frank Adams. Adams claims that the bars have breached state laws that mandate establishments selling liquor to primarily serve meals, suggesting they often operate outside of standard meal times.

Despite these challenges, the good news is that both Group Therapy and Saloon can still serve drinks until at least October 20. After that date, their fate will be determined during a court hearing, with a date yet to be established.

Who’s Representing Them?

In what seems to be quite the clash, Bakari Sellers, a former state representative and current CNN analyst, is stepping in as legal representation for Group Therapy. Sellers expressed confidence, affirming, “We’re going to follow the procedure by the court and do everything necessary. Group Therapy is going to be around for a long time, regardless of what my friend Dick Harpootlian wants to do.” However, he opted not to delve into specific defenses against the allegations at this time—those would be saved for future court filings.

On the opposing side, attorney and outgoing state senator Dick Harpootlian, a resident of Wales Gardens, is gearing up to challenge the license renewals. His concerns do not fall short, as he insists that bars like Group Therapy and Saloon tend to draw the younger crowd into drunk and irresponsible behavior that disrupts the surrounding neighborhoods.

A Legacy at Stake

Group Therapy isn’t just any bar—it’s the longest-operating venue in Five Points, having opened its doors back in 1978. Many might remember it as a launching pad for local band Hootie & the Blowfish. In recent years, however, it has transitioned into a different kind of scene. Harpootlian notes, “It was a venue for up-and-coming, aspiring bands. It is now not that. It is a different place. It’s a bar.” The establishment has successfully defended its license against a similar court challenge before, but the landscape has undoubtedly shifted since then.

What’s Next?

Meanwhile, the conversation around nightlife in Five Points continues to simmer. Many locals have long raised alarms about the number of bars in the area, emphasizing the impact on the community. These ongoing tensions echo in neighborhoods that aim to keep the peace amid raucous late-night revelries.

To add to the mix, another bar in the area, New Brookland Tavern, recently found itself in a dry spell as its liquor license expired on August 31 without renewal. In a city that thrives on vibrant night scenes, these developments have many locals and bar-goers alike watching closely.

**Stay tuned** as the situation evolves, and let’s see how Columbia navigates this lively debate between community needs and nighttime fun!