Columbia’s Nightlife in Jeopardy as Licenses for Popular Venues are Under Review

Columbia’s Nightlife Faces Challenges: Licenses Under Review

Hey there, Columbia! The vibrant nightlife in our beloved Five Points neighborhood is currently facing a bit of a hiccup. It seems that both Group Therapy and Saloon, two cherished hangouts in the area, have received some unsettling news regarding their liquor license renewals.

The Situation at Hand

As of September 10, 2024, the South Carolina Department of Revenue has conditionally denied the renewal requests for these establishments, and the reason? Protests from local residents. It all started when Coley Frank Adams, a resident of the nearby Wales Garden neighborhood, raised concerns about the licenses. This has caught the attention of S.C. State Senator Dick Harpootlian, who is voicing the opinions of the protestors. Sounds like a bit of a neighborhood showdown, doesn’t it?

Legal Representatives Step In

Attorneys Bakari Sellers and John Alphin from the Strom Law Firm have come to the defense of Group Therapy and Saloon. The legal tug-of-war is set to unfold in the S.C. Administrative Law Court, though no specific dates have been scheduled yet for the hearings. Fortunately for the establishments, liquor can continue flowing until everything gets sorted out. Quite the relief for the regulars who frequent these spots!

What’s at the Heart of the Matter?

So, what’s really the issue? South Carolina law mandates that a business must primarily serve meals to obtain a liquor license. Harpootlian contends that neither Group Therapy nor Saloon measures up to this requirement. “The issue is going to be, do they comply with the South Carolina Constitution in that their business is primarily and predominantly the service of meals,” he stated, hinting at the complexities he wants to tackle head-on in court.

Aiming for Resolution

In response to these claims, attorney Bakari Sellers made it clear that Group Therapy is here to stay. “Group Therapy is going to be there for a very long period of time. I’m going to make sure Group Therapy is there so that Dick Harpootlian’s grandchildren can one day enjoy it just like he did,” Sellers pointed out. Can you feel the passion? It sounds like they’re in it for the long haul!

Looking Ahead

While there’s some uncertainty looming over the future of these popular hangouts, it’s always great to see a community come together—whether in support or protest. Five Points has a rich tapestry of culture and nightlife, and the outcome of this situation will surely impact many who call this area home.

For now, we’ll be keeping our fingers crossed for a positive outcome for both establishments. After all, it’s these kinds of local spots that give Columbia its unique flavor and spirit.

Stay Tuned!

As developments unfold, we’ll make sure to keep you updated on this story. If you’re a fan of the nightlife in Five Points, it might be a good time to show your support for these beloved establishments!

Catch you later, Columbia, and may we keep our glasses raised in celebration of our local favorites!