SOUTH CAROLINA BAR & TAVERN ASSOCIATION
About the South Carolina Bar & Tavern Association (SCBATA)
The South Carolina Bar & Tavern Association (SCBATA), a 501(c)(6) nonprofit, was founded by citizens and business owners concerned about the future of South Carolina’s bar industry under state regulations. Our mission is to provide a unified voice for bars, taverns, and venues across the state—ensuring that our concerns are heard and our businesses are protected.
Now more than ever, it is critical that we maintain a strong presence in Columbia. SCBATA is committed to advocating on all fronts for fair treatment of our industry, working closely with state and local officials to build stronger relationships, push for meaningful reforms, and educate the public about the vital role bars and taverns play in our communities.
Our Goals:
- Advocacy: Employ and support a lobbyist to represent SCBATA members at the State House, ensuring our industry remains a priority in legislative discussions.
- Education & Awareness: Keep members informed about issues that directly impact bars and taverns in South Carolina.
- Reform: Address critical issues such as the lack of codified dram shop legislation and the challenges posed by joint and several liability.
Why Bars & Taverns Matter:
Bars and taverns are more than just businesses—they are cornerstones of South Carolina communities. We create jobs, pay taxes, host fundraisers, promote diversity and inclusion, and most importantly, foster fellowship and the human experience.
Membership is open to any bar, tavern, or venue that serves alcohol in South Carolina. Together, we can protect the future of our industry and ensure that the voices of bar and tavern owners are heard.
EXECUTIVE BOARD
JOE GULLEDGE – PRESIDENT
Joe Gulledge is the owner of Hoppin’ in Rock Hill, SC that opened in 2023. Prior to opening Hoppin’ Joe worked as a band director in SC for 28 years. During that time he was President of the SC Band Directors Association and most recently was President of the SC Music Educators Association. During his term on the SCBDA Executive Board he spent extensive time working to help pass legislation (S.302) that allows SC students to receive PE credit for participation in Marching Band. Joe and his wife (Sue) live in Rock Hill, SC
EDDIE MARTIN – VICE PRESIDENT
Eddie is a South Carolina native and owner of Jocassee Valley Brewing. He previously owned and operated Oconee Farm and Garden, worked for Oconee Soil and Water Conservation District, and Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing (3M Corporation) in project engineering. He currently serves on The Foothills Farmstead Board Of Directors, Lake Hartwell Country Board of Directors and The Eagles Nest Art Center Commissioners Board. He and his wife Lynne front the Appalachian folk band Conservation Theory.
RUSTY JAQUISS – SECRETARY
Rusty’s career with Frosty Frog Cafe began in 2005, starting in the kitchen and eventually becoming the General Manager. He had the privilege to serve in this role for many years. Most recently, he has taken over as owner. Volunteering and serving others has always been a priority in his life, and he has served on various boards and committees. He is excited to continue serving on behalf of all the many people in the industry. What he does is important and touches the lives of so many people across the great state of South Carolina. He believes that if everyone works together, it will be possible to bring about the necessary reforms and keep doors open and lights on in the future.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
DOUG AYLARD
*Coming Soon*
STEVE LETT
*Coming Soon*
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
CHRISTOPHER SMITH – EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Chris was born and raised on Long Island, NY and moved to South Carolina 8 years ago when he was relocated here for a job. He opened an entertainment company 6 years ago, which provides DJ and MC services to many different bars and restaurants in the Upstate of South Carolina. Chris spent many years working in government and politics, which is one of the reasons he founded this organization. He lives with his wife Ilisa, their son Carter and their daughter Shea in Greenville.
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