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The Varsity Pool Hall

by: Adam Keith



The Varsity is a time capsule masquerading as a pool hall. It's dingy and yellowed walls are decorated with Schlitz wall hangings and the jukebox has Joe Pesci songs.

The place is a real melting pot and attracts everyone from old hustlers to college students and couples on dates. I was warned about approaching some of the most serious pool sharks, but most of them were friendly, if not a little paranoid. Motioning towards my camera, some asked me if I worked for the FBI.

Next time you pass through Columbia, South Carolina, stop by the Varsity, drop a quarter in the juke and play Foghat. Pretend it's 1975. Order a shlitz and a pickle.  And enjoy.

- Adam Keith
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