Folly Current - July 24, 2009

PRESORT STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID FOLLY BEACH, SC PERMIT NO 27

Folly Beach’s Newspaper

Vol. 1 Issue 20

An island trash-edy By Ali Akhyari

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hameful. Outrageous. Disrespectful. All of these adjectives could be used to describe the condition in which parts of Charleston County’s beaches were left after the recent Fourth of July holiday. However, one must hesitate to use the word “surprising”. All of our barrier islands, from Isle of Palms to Folly Beach, saw an increase in the number of people coming to the beach during a typical weekend due, partially, to the fact that July 4 occurred on a Saturday this year. Furthermore, the rapidly growing population in Charleston County has become less likely to travel due to the economy and prefer to take what has recently been coined as “stay-cations”. The result was a huge influx of visitors and daytrippers to local beaches who wanted to enjoy the July 4 holiday. Linda Lovvorn Tucker, the City Administrator for Isle of Palms, stated that they had one of the largest beach visitation records during the July 4 weekend that the Town has ever known. Folly Beach had an estimated 40,000 visitors that Saturday alone. The more people you have, the more likely you are to have environmentally insensitive people. Who knows why, but to loosely quote the witty “Agent K” from the movie Men in Black, “A person is smart, but people are stupid.” However, it was Folly Beach that found itself in the throes of a media avalanche when the trash story was attached to a possible ban on alcohol, as several residents presented pictures and strongly worded letters describing the amazing amount of trash that some environmentally insensitive people left on the beach. In the midst of their rage, many residents began

I N S I D E

July 24, 2009 w FREE

Trashed

Folly Beach takes on litter, behavior, and alcohol

photo provided by Bubber Hutto

crying for blood ... or lower blood-alcohol levels, at least. Folly resident Bubber Hutto supplied pictures and several letters requesting that the City of Folly Beach follow Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island by banning alcohol on the beach in order to fight litter. However, the Folly Beach

Humours of Folly on page 2

City Council recognized that litter and alcohol were inherently different issues at a July 14 workshop. Folly Beach Mayor Carl Beckmann set the tone by pointing out that the Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s Island had the same experience as Folly on July 4, and

State of Folly economy on page 3

that both municipalities were inundated with visitors’ trash. Despite providing more trash cans on their beach accesses, Tucker stated that receptacles on the Isle of Palms were also overflowing, and that trash had been left on the beach, as well. see Trash on page 4

“The Nude” on page 5

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July 24, 2009

Exchange Club News provided by Robert lucas

“As neighboring islands have been given over to gated golf communities, Folly Beach maintains its dignity, unencumbered by the forces of conformity.” - Marjory Wentworth, South Carolina Poet Laureate in The Humours of Folly.

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he Humours of Folly is a brilliant work of photography and poetry, whose journey gives birth to smiles, laughter, revelation, and redemption. Every page is sprinkled with a magic that can rejuvenate the heart of anyone with a passion for this island. In a time where Folly Beach may seem to be stumbling in the dark for direction, Frank Melvin Braden and Ellie Maas Davis remind us with their enchanting images and prose that Folly is more than a zip code: it is a living, breathing creature whose life is chronicled in the seasons; whose charm is in her demand to color outside the lines. It is a reminder to step back, slow down and reach into the soul of Folly in order to reconnect it to our own. Humours is plastered with familiar images of celebration, nature, personalities, and life. Davis’ prose must come from an ancient magician’s book designed to hypnotize the reader with the mystery of Folly Beach from the first page to the last. Juxtaposed in the magic are recollections from various Folly locals such as Marlene Estridge, who recalls eating loggerhead sea turtles as a child after moving here in 1941. “Oh, I know why loggerheads are scarce,” she is quoted to say. Staying true to its inference, The Humours of Folly explores the various corners of the island’s soul with the playfulness and wisdom of a 200 year old Live Oak. On July 28, the publishers will be officially releasing the book at the Folly Beach Holiday Inn between 4:30pm and 6:30pm. Be sure to get a copy, flip through its pages and remember why you love Folly Beach.

PHOTO BY Robert Lucas

The Folly Beach Exchange Club recently elected new officers. (l to r) Folly Beach Exchange President Brett Barker, past president Rhetta Laurey and President-elect Matt Gerringer take a moment to stand in front of our Nation’s flag.

High flying flags The Exchange Club has continued its annual tradition of placing flags on the causeway for the Fourth of July holiday. We hope the community has enjoyed this gesture and we thank you for your positive comments. Join us! The Exchange Club is holding a membership drive in July. Initiation fees are being waived and members will only pay $35 for their first quarter. July meeting date moved The July Exchange Club meeting has been moved to July 23 to avoid conflict with the National Convention. This meeting will include the annual Folly Founders’ Meeting.

Frank Heinsohn will lead the presentation. Welcome, new officers Exchange Club held its officer and board induction ceremony at the June 19 meeting. Previous Past-President Jim Carney conducted the ceremony and President Brett Barker offered his comments on the coming year. In member news, David Walters was named Division Director for Division 10 at the recent South Carolina District Exchange 2009 Convention. Debbie Bucher has been added to the Executive Board and has also been named Social Chair. Exchange Club welcomes its Cindy Blanton as its newest member. Congratulations to all.

Local Exchangite elected National President

James Island resident Margie Miller was elected to the position of President Elect of the National Exchange Club at the annual convention in Jacksonville, FL, on July 17. Miller will serve as president elect for one year and automatically assume the position of President next year at the annual convention in Palm Springs, CA. Millier joined the Exchange in 1998 and has served in leadership roles at the club level, including secretary, president-elect and president. She has recruited 11 new members for Exchange. Miller is employed as the clerk of court by the Folly Beach Municipal Court. She retired from the U.S. Navy as a civilian accountant and the U.S. State Department as an international banking specialist. She and her husband, Fenton, have two children and one grandchild. Fenton and their children are also active Exchangites.

www.follycurrent.com

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July 24, 2009 FOLLY ECONOMY SERIES: RESTAURANTS

Folly food fairytale By Lindsey Conklin

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nce upon a bad economy, the world fell into a recession. Not only did paychecks, stocks, and jobs dwindle, but luxuries too. Vacations, shopping, and extravagances were cut back and money was spared for necessities. But in a land far away from the Market of Stock is a small town at the Edge of America called Folly Beach, where it seems that the luxury of eating out could have a fairytale ending for Folly’s 2009 summer season. It seems that the economic fears which plagued America this past year are unfounded in the restaurant business on Folly Beach and that the shaky economy might actually have helped these businesses thrive in 2009. The common thread in the financial tapestry of local eateries is that business this year for Folly restaurants is equal to, or greater than, last year. The success is partly attributed to the belief

that travelers are taking more regional trips and staying closer to home. Perry Darby, owner of the Surf Bar, thinks that, “People in close demographics aren’t going to Paris or Rome; they are taking nearby trips and heading to the beach.” Similarly, the manager of the Crabshack, Dana Tinkler, recognizes that good business can also be credited to “day-trippers” as “people are finally taking advantage of their backyards: the beach.” The secret behind Folly restaurants’ continued success is because it’s a value-oriented luxury: great food for great prices. However, some changes have been necessary. The Crabshack, for instance, added a $10 and under “Value Baskets” page to their menu for people eating out on a budget. No staff members were eliminated, however, and hours were adjusted. Seana Flynn, owner of Lil’

Notice

for Folly Conservation Corp Applications

The City of Folly Beach is currently accepting applications for the Folly Conservation Corp. Candidates must be at least 18 years old and have reliable transportation. The position requires being able to lift 25 pounds and able to withstand summer temperatures. Knowledge of the area is helpful. The “FCC” will assist beachgoers with questions regarding ordinances that affect the beach and will be responsible for keeping their areas free of debris. The “FCC” will be responsible for tagging items left unattended on the beach for pickup after 24 hours. There are five positions available. The position is a 29 hour work week at $8.00 per hour. Interested candidates may contact Kathryn Battey, PHR, City of Folly Beach at 843-513-1837. Please call for an application packet. FC02

 PetsPetofHelpers the Week  Girlie Girl I am a beautiful Lab/Hound mix. They think I have a good bit of Greyhound in me, and I am slow to warm up to strangers - but I am very kind and don’t like being in a kennel and surrounded by all the barking dogs. I’m extremely quiet, so I’m perfect for you if you’re worried about a dog being too loud in your home. I promise to love you forever and adore you with my big brown eyes!!

Mama’s, mentioned that they slightly increased their already low prices, but that they have been able to add more staff members. Menu offerings, pricing, and staff remained consistent at the Surf Bar, as well as at Woody’s. It was noted, however, that there has been a staggering amount of applications at several restaurants, more so than previous years, and that the resumes submitted appear overqualified. Although the addition of new restaurants may seem to add competition, Darby from the Surf Bar views Folly as a tent, “and there’s room for everyone”. see Economy on page 8

Follypalooza ‘09 Follypalooza 2008 raised over $7000 for local cancer patients. This year, the hope is to raise even more money to help battle this horrible disease. Consequently, planning is beginning a little earlier this year and everyone has an opportunity to join in the fun. Follypalooza ’09 is currently looking for the following: Any person or group interested in planning the event. Any person or group interested in volunteering the day of the event. Any person or group interested in sponsoring or donating for the event. Any musician interested in volunteering a performance the day of event. Any Folly Beach resident going through cancer treatment that could use our help (all recipients will be kept anonymous). This year promises to be even better than last year; a true family friendly event with different genres of music, carnival atmosphere, kids zone, food vendors, and more. Any interested parties, please email Follypalooza@ yahoo.com for more information.

Harriet

Hello there--I’m a shy 3 year old in need of some patience, gentleness and love! I need time to warm up to you and soft hands and words! Come visit me today!

Pet Helpers is located at 1447 Folly Road, James Island. Hours: Mon – Fri from 11am – 6pm and Sat from 11am - 5pm. Closed: Sundays and Holidays. Call Pet Helpers at 795-1110. Adoption fees: $125 cats & dogs (6 mo. or younger), $100 for 6 mo. or older. $55 for rabbits. Includes spaying/neutering, shots, heartworm check, leukemia check, deworming, microchip, collar and tag. Visit www.pethelpers.org.

www.follycurrent.com

Lynn Pierotti Publisher [email protected] Ali Akhyari Editor [email protected] Kristin Hackler Managing Editor [email protected] Swan Richards Graphic Designer [email protected] Brittany Urbach Reporter [email protected] Richard Brendel Advertising 843-478-0896 [email protected] Interns Chris Marchewka Dylan Sharek Micah Brown Ellien Smith • Contributors Megan Carroll Lindsey Conklin Robert Lucas Captain Robert Olsen Vince Perna SC DNR Snoky Weiner Lara Wittstadt Published by Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina, LLC P.O. Box 837 Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482 843-886-NEWS Future deadlines: July 29 for submissions. The Folly Current, a wholly owned subsidiary of Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina LLC, is a free, independent newspaper published every two weeks and is for and about Folly Beach. Copies are mailed free of charge to every active mailbox in our coverage area and are also available at area businesses and by subscription to non-islanders. Subscriptions are $30 per year for non-residents and are available by sending a check to Lucky Dog Publishing, LLC, P.O. Box 837, Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482. Contributions of information, pictures and articles are welcomed and are used according to space limitations and news value and cannot be returned except by special request. Our editorial content is primarily dedicated to the area of distribution; ad space is open to all businesses who want to reach the Folly Beach market. Complete ad creation is $50, however, changes of up to 30% of the original ad are included at no extra cost. All advertising rates are listed at www. islandeyenews.com under “advertising”.

Lucky Dog Publishing, LLC

Publishers of The Folly Current, The Island Eye News and the Island Connection.

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Good ol’ Folly fun

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Island Editorials

s a concerned ex-patriot of Folly Beach and former member of its Planning Commission, I’ve been watching the recent goings on with horror and amusement. I lived on Folly from January 5, 1987, until my divorce in 2006, which divorced me from my house as well as from my wife. Homeowners complain about young people. All those dang young people! The unwashed youth, the overly washed youth, the youth that have washed moderately but applied excessive cologne. Surfboards sticking out everywhere, litter and beer cans on the beach, men urinating while secretly jealous females look away in horror! And then there are the thousands of cars an hour making the road impassible, necessitating careful time management techniques by the year-round residents who must leave in the morning and return in the evening like the helpless inhabitants at the end of H.G. Wells’ Time Machine. Strained Council meetings with weary embattled Councilmen who try hard to look patient and understanding, yet not condescending as certain over-wrought residents who possibly have some time on their hands give impassioned speeches about the Trash from cover

It was something of a perfect storm; a situation that encouraged large amounts of trash to be generated in the beach area. “I believe that timing circumstances impacted the appearance of the trash,” Tucker said. “From Friday until Sunday, the trash that was collected had no off-island destination.” Despite having alcohol bans, the Isle of Palms and Sullivan’s both had similar experiences. In fact, it was Sullivan’s Island in the news last year when a section of their beach was completely trashed by visitors. To combat the problem, Sullivan’s Island has been very straightforward in their use of signs at beach accesses, even placing a large traffic sign on the Ben Sawyer Causeway that warns visitors against littering. They also have a beach patrol which Fire Chief Anthony Stith believes helped to keep things more controlled this year. The Isle of Palms has hired Schupp Enterprises to regularly sweep the beach. Bill Schupp, the company owner, stated that they picked up more trash this past Fourth of July than they have had to pick up during any weekend on record. “We all had the same problem. Which direction we want to go in and how best to attack the problem is what Folly Beach has to decide,” says Folly Beach Mayor Carl Beckmann. Currently, the trash “problem” is only a problem during the summer and only a severe issue for several days out of the year. Folly Beach Council

July 24, 2009

By Smoky Weiner permanent damage to their beloved Island due to the unyielding greed of developers and politicians … well, anyway, that was 1987. One can plainly see how much has changed. Folly is marching on like it always does; doing what it can in the face of difficult problems. Luckily, Folly has the right Mayor for the problem and I mean that seriously because I like the guy. In fact, he is the first Folly Mayor that I have actually liked! He’s a can-do military dude who knows what must be done. C’mon, deep down, we all know what must be done. Yes, three or four of these litterbugs and perhaps an errant dog owner or two must be shot, or at the very least, tazed. You wouldn’t have to taze the dog or anything that drastic. Sure, there’d be some criticism in the press (although it is

South Carolina), but then some famous person will take a hike, kick the bucket or marry out of their species and “poof!”, all gone! Not only would this solve the litter problem, but you could probably cut the police force in half. Now that’s real savings. I got a ticket for jaywalking in L.A. once. The cop was six foot six and I could tell he wanted to throw me to the ground. I am dead certain that if I threw an empty beer can on the beach in front of Johnny Carson’s house in Malibu I would have been shot through the heart by a policeman and they would have called it justifiable homicide. It is this kind of thinking that attracted Schwarzenegger; and he is a superhero after all. I joined the swarm last Friday night and I was walking down Center Street when I heard a duo on a patio playing an old song. The song was “The Weight” by The Band. I walked

a little further down the street until I was at another bar with a patio and another act, this one a solo, was playing a song. It was also “The Weight” by The Band. This scared me. They were about thirty seconds apart in the song, although they couldn’t hear each other. These guys were too young to have even heard the song when it came out. In fact, they weren’t even born yet! There must be some kind of young people “Band” cult where they communicate with their IPhones just to freak us old guys out. The actual “old” musicians can’t even get a gig playing the old songs. We’re just too old. Maybe I’ll pull my boxers outside of my pants, cross my arms and make some bi-labial fricatives with my mouth. Or maybe not … You can find old guys a plenty and also some of the more intelligent younger ones at Bowens Island every Wednesday night from 8:30 until 11:30pm. It’s a jam, so bring your thing. Hosted this week by Tommy Thunderfoot, Smoky Weiner, Stevie Kent and Steve Padgett. Come play with us or just listen. We have good old fun.

member Tom Scruggs pointed out that the area of beach he patrols for their turtle watch program was not even impacted during the July 4 weekend. In other words, the problem is isolated. An alcohol ban for the entire community would not impact the litter issue. “This Council has a trend of solving problems with new rules banning things,” Council member Eddie Ellis stated. He’d like to see the Council go in a different direction this time. In fact, he’d like to see community based solutions that reflect a smaller government. The Folly Beach City Council spent an hour and half discussing how to fight litter on the beach. They considered putting more trash receptacles and trash bags at walkovers, as well as conducting more trash pick-ups. They also discussed doing a “litter blitz” over the course of several weekends in order to show that Folly Beach will enforce state litter laws, which can include up to $1000 in fines and jail time. It was noted that the blitzes could cost up to $10,000. However, that cost could be offset by the fines, Ellis said. Better enforcement of existing laws was also a focal point, and these ideas, as well as others, will be presented at a Folly Beach public meeting scheduled for August 4. Other factors besides alcohol are largely to blame for the litter that was left on Folly Beach. However, that does not mean that an alcohol ban is not on the table for Folly residents. The Council also discussed “inappropriate behavior”, which had some Council

members discussing a ban. Council member Laura Beck led that discussion and suggested partial bans that would only apply to certain “high holidays”, like July 4, that tend to include more drinking than usual. However, one of the more popular ideas was a new law enforcement program that included a citizen patrol modeled after Del Rey, Florida. Citizens would be trained to patrol certain areas and work with the Public Safety Department to provide more “eyes and ears” to help local law enforcement catch inappropriate behavior, such as public urination, disruptive behavior and underage drinking. Banning alcohol was not among the ideas that the City of Folly wanted to present in their battle against litter or inappropriate behavior. A survey provided by the Folly Island Voters Association (FIVA) suggested that the vast majority of people want a ban. However, a Post & Courier survey told quite a different story with 304 people against a ban and 149 people in favor of one. Our own Folly Current survey suggested that 85 percent of people do not want an alcohol ban and nearly 70 percent did not think an alcohol ban would significantly impact litter. 65 percent of those surveyed were either fulltime residents, property owners, or previous residents of Folly Beach. Those who will be attending the August 4 meeting will have

an opportunity to say whether or not Folly Beach should ban alcohol on the sand. Despite the opinion that alcohol on the beach is not really associated with litter, Mayor Beckmann stated that they would get a poll from attendees on whether alcohol should be banned. The August 4 meeting is expected to be held at the Holiday Inn at 6pm or 6:30pm. The event has not been officially scheduled, so be sure to check with City Hall. The meeting will also be posted on the calendar at www. follycurrent.com once the meeting becomes official. Visit www.follycurrent.com to fill out our alcohol ban survey.

www.follycurrent.com

July 24, 2009

Action and adventure in “The

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Nude ”

by Kristin Hackler

s much as we admonish others and remind ourselves with the oft quoted saying, the majority of us are still inclined to judge a book by its cover. I am ashamed to say that I did just that with a book that was given to me for review. As a lover of political science, historical fiction and any book from which I come away knowing more about the world than I did going in, I am the first to condemn romance novels. Full of over-embellished similes and metaphors and rife with situations that leave me blushing for several hours after completing a chapter, most of the time I would rather read a detailed analysis of the use of the Navier-Stokes equation in practical large scale drainage use than open a Harlequin novel. So it was with heavy judgment and preconceived opinions that I opened the Regency romance novel The Nude by Folly Beach author Dorothy McFalls: and I was pleasantly surprised to find myself completely and utterly wrong. Part of my prejudgment error was in assuming that a Regency romance novel is just another name for a Harlequin romance novel. In fact, if there were a hierarchy of romance novels, Regency would be considered the most elite and least sexual of them all. Typically written with a high degree of intelligent, fast

paced dialog, Regency novels are set in the 19th century and are loosely based on the styles of Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer. The name “Regency” comes from the British Regency era, when the Prince of Wales (later George IV), ruled as Prince Regent after his father, George III, was deemed unfit for rule. His rule, from approximately 1811 – 1837, was a time of great excess in terms of the arts and culture, as well as flagrant hedonism for the era’s beau monde; the nickname for Britain’s most affluent families. McFalls’ novel opens in London, 1814. A desperate artist applies the finely ground, sparkling dust of sapphires and rubies to a painting he has struggled for several sleepless days and nights to complete. With a final stroke, the artist, known only as Dionysus, passes out, exhausted, at the base of his creation. When the painting is finally revealed, however, its subject has no idea that she has been imagined, prostrate and completely naked, on the artist’s canvas. The scandal rocks the town and Elsbeth Mercer, the hapless victim, is determined to uncover the artist’s true identity at all costs. In the meantime, Nigel Purbeck, the sixth Marquess of Edgeware, takes pity on Elsbeth and determines to do what he can see The Nude on page 10

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Folly music scene Drop-in Deli 7/24 - Reid Stone 7/25 - John Totaro 7/27 - John Pringle 7/30 - Stratford Stratton Lawrence III 7/31 - Jupiter’s Garden 8/1 -Hollow Reed 8/3 - Richard’s 3 Amigo Birthday Bash 8/6 - Kevin Church Chill and Grill Thursdays - The Hawkes 7/24 - Suspicious Package 7/25 - Reid Stone and Friends 7/31 - Sho Enuff 8/1 - Graham Whorley 8/7 - Sho Enuff Planet Follywood Fridays and Saturdays - Dan Clamp 8/2 - Jon Brackett 8/15 - Shakin Martinis Folly Beach Crab Shack Mondays - Live Local Music Tuesdays - Trivia Wednesdays - Dave Grunstra Thursdays - Island Duo

www.follycurrent.com

Friday - Folly Dogs Saturdays - Sara Smile Surf Bar Sundays - Dangermuffin Sand Dollar 7/31 & 8/1 Johnny Mac and the Booty Ranch The Roadhouse Thursdays - Folly Beach Bluegrass Society BLU 7/24 9-12am Larry David Project 7/25 - Calvin Taylor (2-5pm) Emekris Trio (9pm-12am) 7/26 - Island Trio (2-5pm) Doug and Rik (8-11pm) 7/31 - Jay Miley (9pm-12am) 8/1 - Soul Fish Duo (2-5pm) Two 3 Ways (9pm-12am) 8/2 - Ted McKee Solo (2-5pm) 8/7 - Emekris Trio (9pm-12am) Vince Perna is a Folly Beach real estate expert who also loves music. If you want to know if you can live on Folly, you can find him at 31 Center Street or by calling 588-3800.

July 24, 2009

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Folly Curren

July 24 - A Friday, July 24 Folly Farmers Market

At the Folly River Park every Thursday – Sunday from 10 am until … Only South Carolina produce will be sold at the market. For more info, call Christine Wilkerson at [email protected]. Betsy’s Bash

In honor of the rescued Staffordshire Terrier who was found with a missing paw. From 6pm - 10pm at Necter Bar and Grille located at 951 Folly Road, James Island. $10 Donation/Cover at the Door, cash only. Free food, live music and amazing drink specials! For more info, call Pet Helpers at 795-1110. Saturday, July 25 Folly Farmers Market

At the Folly River Park every Thursday – Sunday from 10 am until … Only South Carolina produce will be sold at the market. For more info, call Christine Wilkerson at [email protected]. Folly Beach Pier Fishing Tournaments

Registration begins at 6am and takes place on-site only. Tournaments end at 4pm and prizes are awarded at 4:15pm. For more info, call the Folly Beach Fishing Pier at 588-FISH (3474). WakeFest V @ Trophy Lakes

Come out to the lake and ride or just hang out with your friends by lakeside. Enjoy music, food and drink courtesy of Pope Catering and Savory Sushi. $30 to ride or $35 day-of. Please contact Matt at 559-2520 with any questions Registration is at 10am, riding starts at 11. Sunday, July 26 Parent’s Day Turtle release at Beachwalker Park

Three turtles are scheduled for release at Beachwalker County Park at 3pm.

www.follycurrent.com

Holy City Beard & Mustache Society

Brush your bristles and groom your goatee, The Holy City Beard & Mustache Society will be having there monthly meeting at the Surf Bar on Folly Beach at 9am. For more info, visit www.myspace.com/holycitybeardsociety Bill Noel Book Signing

Bill Noel, Author of the Folly Beach Mystery Series which includes, Folly, The Pier, and Washout, will be conducting a book signing at the Holiday Inn from 2-5pm. Folly Farmers Market

See Saturday, July 25 Surfrider beach sweep

Meet at the Folly Pier. Leader- Haley Merrill ([email protected]) Meet at the Washout. Leader - Gabby Kauffmann ([email protected]) Contact leaders for more information. Beginner Long Boat Surf Kayaking

Our experienced instructors will guide you through fun and exciting times in the surf of our beloved Folly Beach. Pre-registration required. Meet at Charleston County Parks headquarters. Ages 16 +. Fee: $54. Course #20502. 9am – 2pm. To register or for more info, call 795-4386. Tuesday, July 28 Folly Beach City Council

The Folly Beach City Council meets second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30pm. www.cityoffollybeach.com. Folly Beach City Hall, 21 Center St., (843) 588-2447. Bill Noel Book Signing

Bill Noel, Author of the Folly Beach Mystery Series which includes, Folly, The Pier, and Washout, will be conducting a book signing at Lost Dog

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July 24, 2009

nt Calendar

August 6 Cafe from 8am-1pm and at Bert’s from 3-7pm. Wednesday, July 29 Pour House Crafters Market

cal entertainment from 2 to 5. For more info, email: [email protected] or call 345-8739. Sunday, August 2

Selling original handmade artwork by local starving artists with live music on the deck. Every Wednesday from 4 – 8pm at The Pour House, 1977 Maybank Hwy. 571-4343, www.charlestonpourhouse.com.

Friendship Day

A concert to benefit “Hands of Christ” will be held at 7 pm, at James Island Presbyterian Church, 1632 Fort Johnson Road. No admission will be charged, but you are asked to bring school supplies or monetary donations to help support the ministry. For more information call 795-3111.

Meets the first Monday of every month at Folly Beach City Hall. Please call Aaron Pope at Folly Beach City Hall to confirm date and time of meetings at 588-2447 ext 1839.

Hands of Christ benefit concert

Thursday, July 30 Folly Farmers Market

See Saturday, July 25 Friday, July 31 Folly Farmers Market

See Saturday, July 25 Folly Beach Moonlight Mixer

From 7pm – 11pm, local DJ Rob Duren will spin the hottest oldies and beach music around. Advance tickets are $10 and $8 for Charleston County residents. If available, tickets purchased on-site are $10. Call 795-4386 or visit www. ccprc.com. Saturday, August 1 Folly Farmers Market

See Saturday, July 25 First Saturday on the Edge

At the Folly River Park from 11 to 7pm. Original arts and crafts will be available for sale from members of the Folly Beach Arts & Crafts Guild. Musi-

Folly Farmers Market

See Saturday, July 25 Monday, August 3 Folly Beach Planning Commission

Wednesday, August 5 Pour House Crafters Market

Selling original handmade artwork by local starving artists with live music on the deck. Every Wednesday from 4 – 8pm at The Pour House, 1977 Maybank Hwy. 571-4343, www.charlestonpourhouse.com. Thursday, August 6 Folly Farmers Market

At the Folly River Park every Thursday – Sunday from 10 am until … Only South Carolina produce will be sold at the market. For more info, call Christine Wilkerson at [email protected]. Folly Beach Utility Advisory Board meeting

The Utility Advisory Board (UAB) meets the first Thursday of the month at 5pm. Please call before attending to verify that the UAB will be meeting this month. For more info, call Belle Condon, Deputy Director of Utilities, at 588-2447 ext 1833 or email Bcondon@ cityoffollybeach.com.

www.follycurrent.com

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July 24, 2009

Buy before you bait F ishi n g lic e n s e s r e q u ir e d e v e ry w h e r e i n S o u th C aroli n a

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by sc department of Natural resources

he recent session of the South Carolina General Assembly made changes to the Saltwater Recreational Fishing License effective July 1, 2009. License fees will not change. The changes to the South Carolina Saltwater Recreational Fishing License will allow better access to information about recreational catch, which will lead to better management of South Carolina’s valuable marine resources. The changes also ensure that South Carolina anglers will simply need to purchase a single license to fish anywhere in both state and federal saltwaters. Revenue generated from Saltwater Recreational Fishing License sales will be used for the direct benefit of South Carolina’s marine recreational fisheries. The new legislation will require a saltwater recreational fishing license for people who: * Recreationally fish from shore (beach, bank, private dock, free public pier, etc.). * Recreationally harvest shrimp and/or crab. * Harvesting oysters or clams * Fishing for finfish from a private boat or transporting catch in a private boat.    

There are a few exceptions that will allow people to harvest marine resources without a saltwater recreational fishing license including: fishing off a licensed commercial public fishing pier, fishing off a licensed for-hire vessel (charter and headboats), fishing with three or fewer fold-up traps, fishing with three or fewer drop nets, fishing with three or fewer handlines with a single bait and no hooks (chicken necking) and taking shrimp over bait (still required to have Shrimp

Economy from page 3 Last winter, unsure of what the future would hold, local business owners anxiously awaited the summer tourist season to see what impact the national economic climate would have. Charleston was not immune to the downturn, which means that Lowcountry residents have been included in the “stay-cation” trend. People are staying close to home and enjoying the Lowcountry instead of traveling. The niche’ market that defines the economy of local barrier islands like Folly Beach may actually be getting a boost from neighbors that would otherwise have opted for overseas destinations in healthier economic times. Ultimately, the recession has not had a negative impact for the restaurants interviewed due to the large number of visitors to Folly, great food, great value, and great people. The local residents have also been significant players in helping out the local businesses by frequenting their local establishments, not only for the good value and good food, but for the love of Folly. And the people ate happily ever after. NOTE: This article is the first in a series focusing on the state of the Folly Beach economy.

www.follycurrent.com

Baiting License). A resident of South Carolina 64 years old or older may obtain a statewide lifetime hunting and fishing license that includes the privilege of saltwater fishing. A person who has been a resident of South Carolina for at least one year and who is determined to be totally disabled may obtain a statewide fishing and hunting license which includes the privilege of saltwater fishing.

July 24, 2009

9

By Megan Carroll

stop criminals John Dillinger, Baby Face Nelson, and Pretty Boy Floyd. It is an adaptation of Bryan Burrough’s non-fiction book Public Enemies: America’s Greatest Crime Wave and the Birth of the FBI, 1933-34. Christian Bale mericans have an obsession with gangster movies. plays FBI agent Purvis, Johnny Depp plays Dillinger, Both on the silver screen and the “screen in a Marion Cotillard plays Dillinger’s girlfriend Billie box”, this genre appeals to almost all audience Frechette, Channing Tatum plays Floyd and Giovanni demographics. The latest on the scene is Michael Mann’s Ribisi plays Alvin Karpis. Public Enemies, featuring box office heartthrob Johnny Johnny Depp is definitely the draw for this flick. Depp as the man you love to hate, and counterpoint There’s something about the Robin Hood mentality “bad boy” Christian Bale, who is cast as the somewhat of robbing the rich and giving to the poor that creates redeemable J. Edgar Hoover gun slinger. Sound like a audience sympathy for Dillinger. The FBI appears more recipe for success? Almost. Public Enemies is a technically like the “bad guy” and Bale playing Melvin Purvis comes impressive gangster flick, with lots of action, shoot ‘em across as an observant, play-by-the rule FBI agent who is up scenes, and some strong performances, but ultimately conflicted over getting his man and the savagery of what there’s nothing that keeps this drama afloat. can occur behind the veil of law enforcement. So who are Set during the Great Depression, the film focuses on you supposed to hate most? the true story of FBI agent Melvin Purvis’ attempt to Bale brings an amazing intensity to the character, but never really breathes personality into the role. Depp (Dillinger), rarely shies By Captain Robert Olsen away from a gunfight and ello, fellow fishermen and and have caught seems annoyed by his trigger women. It has been nothing but too many of happy comrades, but is still a red hot recently, and I am not them to count. I rebel with a losing cause. He just talking about the weather. Fishing can usually rely never has a problem with the has been nothing short of fabulous over on my brother ladies, though his passions the last few weeks. to keep the were only focused on one, From the beaches there has been population down, Billie (Marion Cotillard), constant action with the redfish, trout but last week my a coat check girl attracted brother, and quite a few spanish coming in close. older to Dillinger’s unwavering There are also some rumors or “fish tales” Harold Olsen, who is a commercial loyalty and confidence. that have been circulating that quite a shark longliner, fell a short height from few king mackerel have been caught off a ladder and his life was ended way too the Folly Pier over the past week, as well soon. I think he may be the reason we as some big king mackerel. A 36 pounder caught over a dozen today during my has been the biggest I’ve heard of, but that halfday trip. is coming from a fellow fisherman. There On a side note, during a couple of was even a report that a kayaker caught a charters over the last few days, the shark king from just outside the breakers. If the action has been overwhelming. Too kayak story is true, I will be the first to many sharks to count, but fun to catch! congratulate the talented angler. I have Hope everyone can make the time reason to believe it is somewhat factual to get out on the water and enjoy our since, just a few weeks ago during a big wonderful weather here in Charleston. inshore/nearshore tournament which Tight lines, I entered, the winning king mackerel came from someone fishing exclusively Robert Olsen is the captain for Knot @ Work Fishing Charters, a family oriented, from the Pier. personalized charter service, specializing in The inshore action is still on fire custom trips for the family or individual as long as you are getting out there and exceeding expectations. Captain during the right tides and begin early Robert Olsen is a licensed and insured in the day before everyone is out riding USCG captain with over 20 years of local around, stirring up the water. Fishing knowledge of the Charleston area. For for sheepshead around dock pilings more information or to schedule a fishing using fiddler crabs is probably the easiest charter call 442-7724 or visit www. approach right now. I would rank fishing knotatworkfishing.com. a live shrimp under a cork for targeting trout and redfish a close second. Fish any NOTE: This report is dedicated to Harold oyster rakes, points or drop offs. It may Olsen, the older brother of Robert Olsen. take moving a few spots to find the fish, Harold was a commercial shark fisherman out of Shem Creek for about 30 years before but it is well worth the effort. As for the never-disappointing shark recently passing away. He ran the boats action, anywhere in the creeks and rivers Bonsai and Endangered One.

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Fishing Report

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close to the ocean have been just about a guarantee to bend the rods I fished in the ocean over the last couple of days

“He had more lives than anyone I have ever known. He was the most giving person I have ever met and a great older brother.”

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Depp, with the help of his own natural good looks and charm, fits this character like an old glove, if not a tired one. The problem is, the audience just isn’t sure who to pull for. Mann never develops a real connection between the leading characters, nor anything other than a superficial, almost formulaic storyline. Mann shows us a romanticized version of Dillinger’s lifestyle as he is caught in a world where everyone abandons him and he is left as just another run of the mill gangster. If you are looking for some deep insights into “why” things happened the way they did, don’t hold your breath. For what it is worth, Dante Spinotti’s cinematography is remarkable and the acting is superb. Public Enemies had all the right things going for it, but it stretched out into an almost tedious film with some great performances and lots of shooting. But, maybe that’s all the genre is really about.

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July 24, 2009

Police Reports

The following is a summary of Folly Beach Police Reports from June 29 - July 13.

girlfriend because she let him borrow her car to run some errands.

June 29- A resident reported that someone had kicked two boards out from under his stairs.

July 3- A man was cited for operating a business without a license.

June 30- Two men were reported to be throwing beer cans into ocean. The reporting police officer smelled marijuana upon his approach and the two subjects gave up their stash without trouble. They were cited for the marijuana and the littering and were released. July 1- A male subject stole two 18-packs of beer and left in a vehicle with three others. The officer noticed the vehicle down the street upon arrival. The three subjects in the vehicle stated that they did not know that the beer had been stolen and planned on going their separate ways once they got to the beach. The subject was identified and arrested for the theft. The beer was confiscated as well as an additional 18-pack that was found as none of the individuals were over 21 years old. July 1- A male subject was reported to police around 12:30am. His eyes were glassy and he seemed “dazed and confused”. He stated that he found a sea turtle’s nest with eggs and wanted to tell someone (see “A turtle tragedy” in the July 10 edition of the Folly Current). He stated he lived with “Elvis” down the street, who was later identified as someone else. His parents were contacted through his cell phone and it was discovered that the subject had a mental condition and was apparently off his medication. The subject stated that he could not be forced to take the medication. He was arrested and the jail staff was made aware of the situation. July 2- After pouring beer on several customers, a male subject ran out of Snapper Jack’s and was chased by employees. Police caught up with the subject at the Front Beach Inn, where he pretended to only know Spanish. He was identified by a Snapper Jack’s employee and put into handcuffs. He was eventually identified and it was discovered that he had been wanted for a psychological evaluation. He was cited for disorderly conduct and transported for evaluation. July 2- A man was discovered sleeping in the back seat of a car by the vehicle’s owner around 6am. Police had difficulty waking him and there was a strong odor of alcohol. He was cited for disorderly conduct and released to his residence. July 3- “Thanks for ruining my f*%$ing night,” an intoxicated woman was quoted as saying when an officer advised her that the pier was closing and she could not enter. She was carrying a 24oz beer and demanded the officer pay her $2 for it when he told her that open containers of alcohol were not allowed. The woman was unsteady on her feet and slurring her speech. She continued to be belligerent and began to draw a crowd. She was arrested for disorderly conduct and an open container. July 3- An individual was cited for assault after punching another man in the face. He accused the victim of being with his

July 3- A turtle nest was reported to have been disturbed. The nest had been fixed and the dirt replaced. However, the dirt had been removed two additional times over the two previous nights. July 3- An unknown subject broke out the rear window of a vehicle and stole a cell phone, GPS system, MP3 player, and a purse that contained several cards, identification, and two checkbooks. July 3- Around 9:30pm, police received an anonymous call reporting that a subject was attempting to buy drugs in front of Bert’s and that another female subject had gone to Sol Legare to pick the drugs up. Officers were unable to locate the buyer, but found the female riding her bike towards Folly Beach. She was stopped and stated that she had nothing in her pockets, although officers noticed a bulge. She emptied her pockets revealing blood pressure pills which she had been prescribed. However, officers noticed her toss a small container onto the ground when she sat down which contained crack cocaine. She was arrested for the offense. July 4- An officer observed three individuals in a golf cart that matched the description of one that had been reported stolen the day before. The officer pulled the vehicle over. After obtaining the driver’s identity, he jumped out of the cart and ran onto the beach, losing the officer who was in pursuit. The officer returned to the scene and instructed the other two passengers to take the golf cart to the police station where they stated the driver admitted to stealing the golf cart. July 4- A couple were removed from the beach because the woman had been sunbathing with her top off. Both had open containers of alcohol. She was issued a citation for indecent exposure despite a request for a warning because the officer stated that nude sunbathing is “immoral” in addition to being illegal. Both were issued citations for having open containers of alcohol. July 4- Spray paint vandalism was reported at a Pavilion Watch property. July 5- An intoxicated woman began causing a ruckus when she was unable to get into her apartment and police were called. The landlord let the woman into her apartment and the situation was resolved. However, police were called two more times because the woman was on her porch yelling for various reasons. She was arrested on the police’s third visit for disorderly conduct. July 5- Two individuals trespassed on the pier after closing. They were cited and released after paying a fine due to their “immigration status”. July 7- A man reported that his bike had been stolen while he was on the fishing pier.

July 7- A man stated that he saw a man riding his bike around a nearby corner when he came out of Snapper Jack’s after being inside for several hours, but could not locate it. July 7- A young man was arrested for disorderly conduct and assault after attacking his own father, who was trying to pick the son up in order to prevent him from driving as he was intoxicated and did not have a driver’s license. July 7- A man reported that a HIC surfboard had been stolen from the dunes at 6th Street East while he was surfing with his daughter. July 8- A license plate was reported stolen from the back of a vehicle. July 10- While parked at the County Park, the back window of a vehicle had been shattered. A note was left explaining that a man’s five year-old son threw a rock, shattering the window, along with a telephone number and insurance information. July 10- A man was issued a citation for disorderly conduct when he started a fight with another male who was urinating on his truck behind the Surf Bar. He claimed he was tired of Surf Bar patrons doing that. The other male, who had been drinking, claimed the bathroom was full. He was also given a citation for disorderly conduct. July 10- An older man was pulled over for speeding. He appeared to have been drinking and admitted to doing so as well as taking medication for health conditions. He also admitted that he probably should not be driving and would go to a hotel if the officer could take care of the vehicle. He agreed to a field sobriety test, despite arthritis and a bad back. He was uneasy on his feet and seemed “dazed and confused”. He was arrested for DUI and blew a .20 at the detention center. His license was taken and he was advised that it was now suspended. However, he was unable to be jailed because his heart rate was too high. He was taken to the hospital

until he was well enough to go back to jail, where he was given citations for DUI and reckless driving. July 10- A woman reported that her car had been vandalized and broken into after parking it under a street light at the Piggly Wiggly that night. Several items were reported stolen including a Satellite radio, a Prada wallet, credit cards, her driver’s license and a “copied” Taylor Swift CD. However, it was also discovered that her license plate was suspended. As a result her driver’s license was also suspended. July 11- An extremely intoxicated woman was arrested for disorderly conduct at the Holiday Inn. She had been lying on the front steps and was trying to go inside, but could not stand up on her own. July 12- Officers responded to a fight at the apartments behind Snapper Jack’s. No one involved wanted to file charges, so the officers were content to let everyone go to their homes. However, one suspect identified himself and claimed he had no identification to back it up. Officers noticed a wallet and located a license that had someone else’s name on it. The suspect claimed he could not remember his social security number. He refused to go home and began mouthing off to someone in the parking lot. He was arrested for disorderly conduct and an unrelated violation that was discovered later. July 12- Two males started fighting on the sidewalk in front of Snapper Jack’s after one had been antagonizing the other throughout the night inside the bar. An officer happened to be right there and drew his tazer, ordering the two men to stop. They cooperated and were arrested for disorderly conduct. July 13- Police discovered that a man was driving with a suspended license when they pulled him over for driving the wrong way on West Arctic. The driver had a broken left leg, so they decided not to arrest him. He was cited for driving with a suspended license and driving the wrong way on a one-way street. The driver’s father was expected to pick up the vehicle.

The Nude from page 5 to return her good name. Generally regarded as a wealthy recluse, Purbeck opens the doors of his country estate to the beau monde for a week-long party and makes it a point that Elsbeth attends; a social invitation that would have never been offered to a woman of loose morals. The invitation, coupled with Purbeck’s constant attentions, is slowly bringing Elsbeth’s reputation out of the gutter when disaster strikes. A killer is on the loose and Purbeck is their target. Although the story starts slowly, the twists and turns become rapid-fire once the guests arrive at the Purbeck country estate. McFalls has certainly done her homework as well, as many of the references to era paints, stonework, architecture, customs, language and political activities are accurately peppered throughout the novel’s 350+ pages. Secret chambers, mysterious lockets, illegal smuggling, vicious killers and yes, even a midnight trist, are all excellent reasons to pick up a copy of McFalls’ novel, The Nude. As if that wasn’t enough, you’ll probably even learn something by the end. Dorothy McFalls is a Folly Beach native, living with her sculptor husband and two dogs. At 28 years old, this is her sixth book and she looks forward to penning many more. For more information about McFalls or her books, visit www.dorothymcfalls. com. The Nude is available at amazon.com, Barnes & Noble, as well as your local book stores.

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11

July 24, 2009

Lara’s Top Ten

F

ollowing are Lara’s top ten tips for beating the summer heat:

water consumption: Hydration is a very important component in keeping the body functional during a summer workout. Drink at least eight ounces of water 30 minutes prior to a workout, about three to six ounces every 15 minutes during the workout, and eight ounces within 30 minutes of completing the workout to stay properly hydrated. Food choice: Supply the body with energy by fueling up with a light snack at least an hour before the workout. Avoid foods that contain dairy and a high acid content to reduce cramping. Clothing: Choose lightweight and lighter shades of clothing that work to wick moisture away from the skin. Face and neck: Keep the face and neck clear of hair, make-up, and jewelry to create a better passageway for air travel.

Wor k o u t tips to b e at th e h e at By Lara Wittstadt

Listen to the weather: If there is a heat advisory, stay in the A.C.! Ask a personal trainer for some beneficial in-home workouts.

classes. Join Lara for a free class! Go to www.beachbellafitness.com or contact Lara

at [email protected] for more information.

Cool-down: Allow for a longer cool-down period so that your breathing and heart rate can get back to normal before jumping in the car. Electrolyte replacement: Mix Gatorade powder or drink with water after a workout. Avoid drinking Gatorade straight: the sugar content may lead to an upset stomach. Add a drop to eight ounces of water to replenish after a hot summer workout. Lara Wittstadt has been a personal trainer in the Charleston area for over two years. She is the owner of Beach Bella Fitness, which offers in-home and outdoor personal training, boot camps, and beach circuit

Folly B each T i d e Ch a rt

Training intensity: Train with shorter intervals at a decreased intensity to avoid over-exertion. Timing is everything: Decide to workout either in the early morning or evening when the sun is not at its brightest. Beach or battery: Choose a workout location where there is an adequate breeze or ample amount of shade to keep cool. I have found that the beach and the Battery downtown are the best bets in the hot Charleston summer months.

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Date

High Tide

Low Tide

July 24 July 25 July 26 July 27 July 28

10:27am/10:45pm 11:22am/11:35pm 12:17pm 12:24am/1:12pm 1:13am/2:06pm

4:09am/4:23pm 4:58am/5:18pm 5:47am/6:14pm 6:35am/7:11pm 7:25am/8:09pm

July 29 July 30 July 31 Aug 1 Aug 2 Aug 3 Aug 4 Aug 5 Aug 6

2:04am/3:01pm 2:57am/3:55pm 3:51am/4:49pm 4:44am/5:39pm 5:36am/6:27pm 6:26am/7:12pm 7:13am/7:54pm 7:57am/8:33pm 8:38am/9:09pm

8:16am/9:08pm 9:09am/10:05pm 10:03am/11:00pm 10:56am/11:51pm 11:46am 12:38am/12:33pm 1:21am/1:16pm 2:01am/1:57pm 2:39am/2:37pm

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July 24, 2009

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