![]() ![]() When the protection transfer was being considered in 2019, there was a significant outcry for both sides on the issue. Both parties submitted their preliminary briefs, but an extension was granted on March 14, so Discotheque's lawyers could submit an updated reply brief, for which the due date is April 15.įor visitors, that means the clubs will be open during the tournament, but, despite the case's appeal status, they will operate as bars, not adult entertainment. As adult entertainment, they would have to close for business effective immediately, but they would be able to apply for alcohol licenses and reopen as “bars only," which would not allow for nudity. Discotheque filed for the licenses the next day, according to documents provided by the city. The City of Augusta, represented by Frails and Wilson of Augusta, then offered the two venues a means of staying in business. The 19th hole: Augustans weigh in on best places to go after a day at Masters Tournament Taste the spirits of Augusta: Breweries, distilleries offer drinks unique to the areaĭowntown offerings: Downtown Augusta offers food, music, drinks. ![]() Lawyers for the clubs – under the collective name Discotheque – Cary Wiggins of Wiggins Law Group in Atlanta and William Sussman of Sussman Law in Augusta, appealed the ruling four days later. Randal Hall granted the city’s motion for summary judgment, effectively shuttering the businesses. The next month, the clubs sued the city, claiming the ordinances violated protections of the First and 14th Amendments and also called the ordinances overly broad, vague, not furthering any governmental interest and developed without any data to support them. When Lester died in April 2019, his next of kin lost the protection. But the change didn't happen overnight.Ĭhanges to the city’s zoning in 1997 and adult entertainment ordinances in 2002 would have required the shift years ago, but the clubs, both owned by James "Whitey" Lester, were protected under a grandfather provision that excluded any established before 2003. When Lester became ill, he sought to transfer his licenses to family members, but the Augusta Commission did not allow it. But those moves are the only things showing The clubs lost their adult entertainment licenses, and dancers are no longer appearing nude. Not anytime soon. Liquor, club lights and loud music are still available as dancers dressed in exotic outfits continue to show off their moves for tips. But as they watch the dancers this time around, guests may be asking, "When do they strip?" Discotheque Lounge and Joker’s Lounge are two hot spots for many visitors to Augusta during Masters Week. ![]()
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