PRESORT STANDARD

US POSTAGE PAID
FOLLY BEACH, SC
PERMIT NO 27
Vol. 2 Issue 4 Folly Beach’s Newspaper December 11, 2009 w FREE

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E Donating time on page 5 Who was David Israel? on page 7 December fishing on page 11
2 December 11, 2009
Immortalizing Charleston’s maritime beacon
Bostick’s award-winning book honors the Morris Island Lighthouse
J ust in time for the holiday shopping season,
Douglas W. Bostick presents his most
recent, award-winning book, The Morris
Island Lighthouse: Charleston’s Maritime Beacon.
Regardless of the time of year, this is a must-
have book for anyone interested in local history
and/or the Morris Island Lighthouse.
Bostick, historian and former executive
director of Save the Light, presents the history
of the Morris Island Lighthouse, which has
served the citizens of South Carolina for three
centuries. He recounts the stories of the many
lightkeepers and their families who braved
meager provisions, low pay and grueling
conditions living on a small island at the
entrance to Charleston harbor. Full of personal
family photos and covering three centuries of
war and rebirth, The Morris Island Lighthouse
preserves Charleston’s maritime history as much
as it celebrates its own.
The Morris Island Lighthouse presents a
detailed, yet easy to read, history of the structure,
its importance, and even the culture surrounding
it over the past 300 years. Part of the success of
this literary venture is Bostick’s ability to intrigue
the reader, making the lighthouse a part of their
own history by the sheer virtue of reading it.
The black and white pictures and photographs
break up the writing wonderfully and provide
the perfect catalyst for transportation into the
Provided
past. No flux capacitor needed; only Bostick’s
words and your imagination. From the ship
Carolina’s landing in 1670 to an official license
plate commemorating the lighthouse in 2001
and beyond, the structure has never seemed so
alive than in Bostick’s book.
The book recently received the prestigious
“2009 Book of the Year” award from the
Foundation for Coast Guard History in the
“lighthouse” category.  Vice-Admiral Howard
Thorsen, chairman of the Foundation, said,
“This year’s competition was especially keen,
with several other books featuring lighthouses
from California, Michigan, Maine, Rhode
Island, Georgia, New York, and Maryland
being among those judged by our thoroughly
knowledgeable panel of readers.”
One judge described Bostick’s book as
“Professional, crisp, and after reading it, I feel
like I know a whole lot more about Morris
Island than I ever thought I would. In such
an instance, all an author can say is ‘mission
accomplished.’”
See how Bostick made the Morris Island
Lighthouse stand out from every other lighthouse
in the country. You won’t be disappointed.
The book is available for purchase at www.
historypress.net and www.amazon.com.
Image provided: Douglas Bostick’s account of Morris Island and the
lighthouse she claims in his new book is a must have.
www.follycurrent.com
December 11, 2009 3

No red carpets on Folly

Marshall Tucker Band denied
Lynn Pierotti
By Ali Akhyari Publisher

A
s the South Carolina Film
Commission continues its work to
bring “Hollywood” money to our
State and local economies, the lowcountry,
epitomizing natural and historic beauty,
has become an increasingly popular locale
for filmmakers. It’s inevitable, then, that
stories featuring cultural icons on very
local backgrounds will begin to surface.
Folly Beach, has hosted the filming of at
least two major motion pictures just in
the last year. True to form, an interesting
story has come out of it.
Fans are usually the ones turned
away from a private party or backstage
encounter, barring exposed cleavage and
of music before deciding that Scottie lynn@luckydognews.com
should play the music for the bar herself. Ali Akhyari
The Marshall Tucker Band could have Editor
been one of the musical acts representing ali@luckydognews.com
southern rock as Kokonuts searches for an
Kristin Hackler
identity. Hopefully, we’ll get to see them Managing Editor
perform in the film. kristin@luckydognews.com
However, the story is that during the
Swan Richards
band’s stint in the area, they went to the Graphic Designer
Sand Dollar Social Club, a veritable shrine swan@luckydognews.com
a failed musician who joins her brother in to all things southern rock, to hang out on
Lori Dalton
the Florida Keys to reopen a dilapidated Sunday, November 8. Of course, anyone
Advertising
bar called Kokonuts, left to them by their familiar with Folly Beach knows that this lori@luckydognews.com
recently deceased aunt Marie. After fixing is a very local, private bar to which you
Richard Brendel
the place up, they “try out” several genres see Denied on page 6 Advertising
843-478-0896

Notice
skimpy outfits, of course. Generally, the richard@luckydognews.com
majority of fans who want nothing more
than a picture with their musical idol go Ben Jordan

home with nothing but a dream of the The City of Folly Beach has received a request Advertising
ben@luckydognews.com
next show as backstage doors are slammed to name the recreational dock located in the Interns
in their face. However, Marshall Tucker
and his band got a taste of what it’s like on Folly River park as follows: Dylan Sharek
•
the other side of the fence during a recent
visit to Folly Beach.
The Karen Stringer Dock Contributors
Sarah Harper
Richard Brendel
According to a local source, the David Farrow
If citizens of Folly Beach would like to protest the naming of the rcreational
Marshall Tucker Band was in town doing Mayor Carl Beckmann
dock located in the Folly River Park as stated above, please send all comments to:
a gig for the movie Angel Camouflaged, Toni W. Connor-Rooks, City Administrator, P. O. Box 48, Folly Beach, SC 29439.
Megan Carroll
which is currently being filmed on Vince Perna
Comments must be received on or before November 16, 2009. Captain Geoff Bennett
Bowen’s Island. The film follows “Scottie” FC04
Dr. John Nelson

Published by
Lucky Dog Publishing
of South Carolina, LLC
P.O. Box 837
Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482
843-886-NEWS

Future deadlines:
December 30 for submissions.

The Folly Current, a wholly owned subsidiary

of Lucky Dog Publishing of South Carolina
LLC, is a free, independent newspaper pub-
lished 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. Subscrip-
tions 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 informa-
tion, 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
Phillip Amazin’ ad creation is $50, however, changes of up to
30% of the original ad are included at no extra
Phillip is a real gentleman!  He’s a small six year old Jack Russell Amazin’ is a seven month old male whose personality is larger cost. All advertising rates are listed at www.
who loves to play tug-of-war with a rope or sit in your lap.  He than life!  He arrived at Pet Helpers as part of an unwanted islandeyenews.com under “advertising”.
is house-ready with his superb manners, housetraining, and litter and had two severely infected eyes.  Pet Helpers vet
friendliness with humans and other canines.  Meet them at staff was able to save one of his eyes and he has made a full
Pet Helpers! recovery.
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. Lucky Dog Publishing, LLC
Visit www.pethelpers.org. Publishers of The Folly Current, The Island
Eye News and the Island Connection.
www.follycurrent.com
 4 December 11, 2009
The next boat to District 45
F
or years, I have been ranting about the
changes in Charleston. The area has grown
like Topsy. The municipalities and county
Island Editorials
have been trumpeting “green jobs.” What an
absolute load of palaver.
We are talking about a group of people who closed
down the incinerator for the sake of reducing our
“carbon footprint”. Okay, fine. So what do we do
with the trash? Oh, that’s right. You haven’t a clue.
Boeing is coming… Jobs, jobs, jobs. Green jobs?
Well, maybe not. A single Boeing 787 generates an
annual carbon footprint of 7.6m tons.
Well, at least the stimulus is working. Go
to Recovery.gov and you find that the 45th
congressional district of South Carolina, alone,
saved 16 jobs with $1,070,000 in federal stimulus
funds. Wow! That’s one of my favorite parts of the
state! I savor the memories of lolling in a Pawley’s
Island hammock while the tidal creek jumped
with shrimp and pelicans wafted above the pristine
Letters to the Editor
Send your letters to the
editor to:
info@luckydognews.com
Note: Be sure to sign your letters. Anonymous letters
will not be printed.
Stop Dog Abuse
Dear Editor,
I recently read the October 16 issue of The Folly
Current and cried myself to sleep after reading the
Police Reports incident of the man beating his
dog over his anger that he had to pay a fine when
retrieving his dog from the Folly Beach Public
Safety Office because the dog was found roaming
without identification and was being kept in a
kennel. It broke my heart to even think about what
this innocent dog suffered. How can any human
hurt a defenseless animal? This dog endured horrific
abuse at the hands of a very sick person whom I
hope has learned a lesson about how to respectfully
treat God’s creatures. And hopefully this dog is
now in the care of a kind and loving person and is
doing well.  I moved to Folly Beach I had neighbors and I knew
Fortunately, the local resident who observed the
abuse of this dog by the owner reported this incident
to the police and an officer responded immediately
to save this dog’s life. I would encourage any person
who observes abuse  to please contact their local
police department  immediately to report their
observations of cruelty.  Reports  from concerned
citizens who observe abuse will help  make the
world a safer place for animals. Also, please call or
write your local law enforcement department and
let them know that investigating animal cruelty
should be a priority. Animal cruelty is a crime and
the police must investigate these crimes.
Join the American Society for the Prevention of
Cruelty to Animals (www.ASPCA.org). This is an
organization designed to help with the awareness
of dog abuse and how to stop it. Unfortunately,
dogs are not always treated and cared for as they
should be, and it is our responsibility to care for
salt marsh. The district is also known for its high
paying jobs. Those sixteen people alone make
$66,685 a year. Whew, dodged a bullet there. I
was thinking of moving when I realized, “Wait!
District 45 doesn’t exist.”
It should not surprise you that I think cap and
trade is malarkey as well. That doesn’t mean that
I don’t think we shouldn’t be good stewards of the
earth. Do you not find it ironic that the very group
which pats its head publically about the creation
of green jobs is encouraging developers headed by
friends of the Charleston administration to build
a small city surrounding a 2,000 year old oak tree
on Johns Island?
Probably the best quote I have heard about the
Boeing plant was from my mother, Emily Ravenel
Farrow. She is 94 and cogent of her surroundings,
but she doesn’t spend a lot of time watching the
news. When I told her that Boeing was going to
build a plant, her head whipped up.
and protect them as fellow creatures of this Earth
and report any signs of abuse.
I sent a donation in honor of this special dog to
the Pet Helpers organization in Charleston, www.
pethelpers.org,  so that this horrible abuse act
would be recognized and that other animals could
be helped to live the decent life they so deserve.
I’ll end by saying that not only do I pray for
that dear dog who touched my heart, but I will
also pray for the man who so horribly abused this
helpless animal so that he will get help for anger
management and hopefully lead a life to help stop
the abuse of animals as something learned from
this horrible tragedy. We must all remember this
statement - “Every day is one that is gone forever.
Make sure you do something for someone else,
especially those who cannot do for themselves.”
Best regards,
Jeri Baron Feltner
No expansion in recession
Dear Editor:
I am writing this letter to give you a perspective
about the $1.6 million-expansion plans proposed
by Beckmann. I am totally opposed to this idea! I
have lived on Folly Beach for fourteen years. When
everyone. While property values increased so did
property taxes and every one of my neighbors sold
and moved because they could no longer afford
the outrageous taxation. I live in a 2 bedroom, 2
bathroom, 1100sf oceanside home and I pay
$11, 397 per year in taxes. I am recently separated
from my husband of 25 years and have been
unemployed because of a downturn in the business
I was in. We are in the middle of a recession! It
is a time to sharpen our pencils and tighten our
belts not to expand because building costs are
down. My husband has agreed to pay the taxes
through 2010 at which time housing values will
hopefully increase and we will be able to sell our
home. I never wanted to leave Folly Beach but I no
longer recognize the place that I fell in love with.
I ask that you take a drive around Folly and ask
yourself if we really need expansion of City Hall.
Folly Beach is not Mount Pleasant, Isle of Palms,
www.follycurrent.com
“Where?” she snapped.
“North Charleston by the airport.”
She was visibly relieved, “Well, as long as they
don’t build it in Charleston.” She would be what
we call a “been ya”.
Although I harp about the changes round
these parts, you might be surprised to learn that
no one called me to ask if it was all right. No one
questioned me on my opinion on any of this…
not one bit. Well, I’ll just use the free broadband
we were promised five years ago to contact the
“powers-that-be”. Darn it, that didn’t happen
either. Hmmm… I wonder when the next boat
leaves for District 45.
Read more by David Farrow at davidfarrow.
wordpress.com
Sullivan’s Island, Seabrook, or Kiawah. If I had
wanted to live there I would not have chosen Folly
Beach. Stand firm against this bill.
Jane Lee
W. Ashley Avenue
County tax info incorrect
Dear Editor,
The letter to the editor titled “County abuses
tax payers” that was published on November 13
unfortunately included incorrect information
regarding the final Fiscal Year (FY) 2010 budget
approved by Charleston County Council and
current property tax bills.
It appears that the figures referenced in the letter
were taken from the FY 2010 proposed budget.
That was the preliminary document that County
staff proposed to County Council and over which
budget discussions occurred. Council’s final budget
can be viewed at www.charlestoncounty.org, under
“Financial Reports”. The following are corrections
to information included in the November 13 letter
to the editor:
County Council’s budget:  While $1 million
was proposed by County staff for the Council
contingency fund, County Council reduced that
amount to $250,000 in the final approved budget,
which is no increase over the prior year. You may
also be pleased to learn that, overall, County
Council cut its own budget by seven percent from
the previous year’s approved budget amount.
County Administrator’s budget: Similarly, the
FY 2010 proposed budget included $300,000 in the
County Administrator’s budget for consultant fees.
However, following Council discussions, County
Council eliminated that proposed expenditure and
it is not included in the approved FY 2010 budget.
In fact, the County Administrator’s overall budget
approved by County Council was 17.1 percent less
than the previous year’s approved budget amount.
Entire County budget: County government
has had to downsize to reflect current economic
conditions. County Council cut the FY 2010
approved budget for the general fund by $3,758,741.
see Letters on page 15
December 11, 2009 5

Hands on non-profits
By Richard Brendel

E
very year as the holiday’s approach, I like to donate
money to local, regional and national charities.
This is a practice I was taught at a young age by
my parents. In past years, I just wrote a check or made
a donation online and felt I had done my good deeds for
the season. 
As I look back on 2009, I have found this year to be
very different than most. It is the first time in my memory
that the economy has been in a true downturn.  I have
watched this decline greatly affect my life, as well as those
of my friends, co-workers and family. Lack of good jobs,
loss of job security and a decrease in salaries has changed
all of our lifestyles. One of the main reasons 2009 seems
so different in retrospect, besides forcing me to be more
thrifty, is that I have found myself with way more idle
time than normal.  I am not alone in my abundance of
free time. I have many friends who have lost their jobs or
had their hours cut back. So how do we handle this lack
of work? Do we just sit on the couch and plug in? Do
we go out and knock on doors, looking for something
to do?
Yes, I have been in all those situations this year. Lack
of work, more stress, too much couch time, frustration
over the economy, and more have all been a part of my
Staff Photo
calendar year. All of these factors can weigh heavy on Ian Sanchez, Executive Director of LEEP (Lowcountry Environmental Education Program) discusses characteristics
one’s heart and can affect your lifestyle, your relationships of our local flora and fauna with intrigued third graders on a trip to Bull’s Bay. Many of the children had never seen
and your sense of purpose.  the ocean before, despite living in the Charleston area. LEEP is one of many local non-profits working to enrich the
As the year is coming to a close, I realize and lives of those around them.
understand that this year I have something more than roof of a house for Habitat for Humanity.  It’s what got volunteer my time, despite the fact that I have worked
just a check to give. I have my time. To volunteer one’s me tagging along with a group of children on a LEEP trip construction in the past and have always enjoyed
time to do something for someone else in need is a great to Bull’s Bay. swinging a hammer. As I pulled into the neighborhood
way to beat this 2009 economic funk. It was a response I have been a long term supporter of Habitat for on Johns Island, I instantly saw the impact of the work
to this revelation that found me laying shingles on the Humanity, but had never taken the opportunity to
see Volunteer on page 15

Mayor’s Letter
By Carl Beckmann
Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas!
I want to draw your attention to our Beach Management Patrol
(BMP) and what they have been doing since their inception. You
should have noticed our beach is cleaner as they educate the
public as well as pick up trash. When you see them on the beach,
please tell them “thanks”. One of our BMP members, John Crisco,
has developed a long range plan for Beach Management. The Council
will look at his proposal after staffing and possibly include his
ideas into the “trash” discussions. Good work, John and Tim!
Since Christmas is coming and the Holiday season is upon us, it’s
time for all of us to think of cooperation and goodwill. Hopefully,
Council will come together and do the right thing for our employees
and our citizens. Peace on Earth and goodwill to men.
Merry Christmas.

www.follycurrent.com
6 December 11, 2009

New art for the holidays

Staff Report

C
ontinuing with their parade of visiting artists,
At the Bridge Art Gallery will be hosting two
wonderfully contrasting artists - Janet Kozachek
and Linda Elksnin - during the month of December.
Kozachek, a roster artist for the South Carolina State
Arts Commission, is an accomplished and traveled painter
and mosaic artist. Her art has been exhibited throughout
the world and Folly Beach will be her home for the next
month. Her eclectic work has been influenced by her
experiences in other countries and has earned her awards
around the globe. Kozachek uses a classic and unique
method to create her paint in this modern age.
“I use only the best materials in my paintings, taking
time and great care in the preparation of my gesso panels
and oil canvases,” says Kozachek. “I often use hand-
ground, pure mineral pigments on burnished oil and
marble dust gesso grounds for a luxurious, sumptuous
look.”
Her mosaics are breathtaking and alive. Some are
functional; all of them are beautiful. Examples of both will
be available for viewing and purchase during December.
Elksnin, a Mount Pleasant resident, has only recently
dedicated herself to her art, although it has been a part of
her life for much longer. Her exhibited work is reminiscent
of ancient Native American cultures, with lots of vivid
colors and shapes.
“Folk, self-taught, and visionary artists from around
the world are the inspiration for my mixed media works,”
she says. “Appreciation for the textile art of the Kuna,
Oaxacan wood carvings, and Haitian folk paintings
led me to create paintings by layering watercolor and
gouache, then building up texture with colored pencils.
Animals, birds, fish, and insects often are the subjects of
my paintings.”
Elksnin received her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from
Syracuse University and went on to obtain a Masters and
Doctorate from the University of Virginia. While in
Virginia, she taught watercolor painting before becoming
a professor at the Citadel where she spent 23 years. In
2006, she retired Emeritus Professor of Education and
took up art. Over the past two years alone, Elksnin has
received an honorable mention at the 2008 Art in the
Park Juried Outdoor Exhibit in Blowing Rock, NC.
Many of her original pieces will be on display and
for sale, as well as many of her more affordable prints.
However, the originals of both artists are also priced very
well. R.T. Shepherd, whose work was displayed with Tyler
Blanton’s during last month’s exhibition, will continue to
hang through December, as well.
This holiday season, don’t forget to stop by At the
Bridge for some unique and original art work.
At the Bridge is located at 83 Center Street on Folly
Beach.

Denied from page 3 Tucker and his band were denied access to share a drink with Marshall Tucker in story to tell when you see the band playing
to our locals spot. I have to think they my house. at Bowen’s Island, I mean “Kokonuts” in
need a membership. Either the bouncer
laughed as they turned away. I also have This is interesting for a couple of the Florida Keys. You’ll look really cool to
didn’t recognize the group or the Sand
to think the bouncer dislocated his own reasons. First, the Marshall Tucker Band whoever you’re telling and you might be
Dollar doesn’t bend its rules for anybody;
knee in order to kick himself in the crotch may be permanently burned into film able to use it as a springboard to “second
not even a legendary southern musical
for that one. No offense, but I’d want to performing at our local Bowen’s Island base” if the situation is conducive to such
group who used to play on the Folly Beach
punch myself for missing an opportunity restaurant for the rest of the world to see. a thing. Your best friend might find it
pier in the 60s. Either way, Marshall
How cool is that? Plus, you heard it here offensive. Who knows?

S u dok u
first... hopefully. Second, when you’re Anyway, congratulations to
watching Angel Camouflaged with a friend “Follywood” for owning the rights to the
sometime in the future, you’ll have a little future Folly Beach.

Rita’s
Folly music 12/11 - Matt & Fred of TrickKnee
12/12 - Howard Dlugasch
scene 12/16 - Mac Leaphart
12/18 - Dave Landeo
Woody’s 12/19 - Joal Rush
Mondays – Jerry Cooper 12/20 - Joel of Sol Driven Train

Drop-in Surf Bar

12/11 - Elise Testone 12/17 - Shannon Whitworth
Tuesdays – Open Mic night Sundays - Dangermuffin
Mondays - Lonesome Squirrel and the
Chill and Grill Nuts Acoustic Jam
Thursdays - The Hawkes
BLU
Planet Follywood 12/11 - Ted Mckee
Fridays and Saturdays - Dan Clamp 12/12 - Private event
12/13 - Nikolai Svishev
Folly Beach Crab Shack 12/16 - Howard Dlugasch
Mondays - Hank Marley open mic
12/18 - Mariam Allen Trio
Tuesdays - Trivia
12/19- Calvin Taylor
Wednesdays - Dave Grunstra
12/20 - Nikolai Svishev
Thursdays - Folly Beach Bluegrass Society
Fridays - Folly Dogs
Saturdays - Sara Smile 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
Solution on page 11 588-3800.
Level: HARD

www.follycurrent.com
December 11, 2009 7

Israel’s garden
By Ali Akhyari

J ust behind the Folly Beach Community Center is a garden.

This place is unlike any other public plot of land on the island.
A fountain splashes nearby while tastefully manicured plant
life absorbs the stress of daily life. The benches and stones that
comprise the walking paths bear the names of loved ones. It is a
“memory garden”, a place to relax and be alone with your thoughts,
and it exists thanks to the efforts of the Folly Beach Garden Club.
And thanks to the memory of one man, it now has a name.
The David Israel Memory Garden became official on November
10 when the City Council unanimously voted in favor of Resolution
56-09. “The City was gracious enough to give us the property to
build a garden,” said Michael Norton, David’s life partner for the
previous six years. “Folly Beach needed a place where people could
go to remember their loved ones who are gone.” The fountain was
put in by Michael himself, who regularly uses the garden as a place
of contemplation and remembrance.

Who was David Israel?

In simple terms, David was a gardener. Technically, he was a
landscape designer, but for David, it was more than a profession.
The man loved plants and had a special way with them. His partner,
Michael, had already developed a garden at his home before the
two moved in together, but when David arrived, Michael watched
him take it “to a whole other level”. In fact, the garden he created
was later featured in Better Homes & Gardens magazine. This
recognition, as wonderful as it is, only hints at the man’s passion,
talent and character.
David was born in Maine but grew up in Seattle, Washington.
His dark complexion and black hair gives away his Pilipino/
French genes. He was the second of four children and grew up in a
Staff photo
The David Israel Garden became official on November 10, but who was the man this garden memorializes? see Israel on page 12

www.follycurrent.com
8 December 11, 2009
Folly Curren
December 11 -
Friday, December 11
Folly Beach Children’s Christmas
Santa is coming to Town and will arrive at the
Folly River Park on Folly Beach at 6pm. During
his stay he will provide 250-300 children with
a stocking filled with candy, fruit, and a toy
while also listening to what each one wants for
Christmas. Toys will vary depending on age
group. The Children’s Christmas is a tradition
that has stretched for over 50 years. Come out
and let your children see Santa on Folly!
Folly Beach Bird Walks
Birding experts from CCPRC and the South
Carolina Audubon Society explore Folly Beach
in this partnership program.  This walk focuses
on the southern shoreline of Folly Beach. The
program is free, however pre-registration is
required. 8:30 – 10:30am. Course #21616. Meet
at Folly Beach County Park. For more info, call
795-4386 or visit www.ccprc.com.
Sing We Now of Christmas
Join the Island Choraliers with “Our musical
gift to our island friends and neighbors” from 7
to 8 pm at The Church of our Saviour on Betsy
Kerrison Blvd. Admission is free; no tickets are
needed. A free-will offering will be taken.
Saturday, December 12
First Day of Hanukkah
Pat Conroy book signing
1pm to 3:30pm at Blue Bicycle Books. The
famed Southern author will be signing copies
of his latest novel,  South of Broad. Secure a
place in line by getting tickets for the signing
on December 11. There is no charge to attend.
For info, go to www.bluebicyclebooks.com or
call 722-2666.
www.follycurrent.com
Christmas at the Sottile
The Charleston Men’s Chorus will present
Christmas at the Sottile, a concert filled with
joyful and sacred holiday music as only the
Charleston Men’s Chorus can sing it. Sottile
Theatre, 44 George St. at 3pm. Admission is
$15/adults; $10/seniors; Free/children under
6. Tickets at Monster Music & Movies (West
Ashley) and Royall Hardware (Mt. Pleasant).
For more info, call 720-8505 or visit www.
cmchorus.com.  
Folly Beach Christmas Parade
The annual Folly Beach Christmas Parade is
unlike any other in the Charleston area as floats
of all kinds decorated by people and residents
of all kinds strut their stuff down Center
Street tossing candy and goodwill. Mayor Carl
Beckmann and Santa will be at the Folly River
Park right after the parade to present awards.
The parade starts at 1pm and the bridge will be
closed to all vehicular traffic during the parade
starting at that time.
Barrier island adventure with Coastal
Expeditions
Join Coastal Expeditions from 10am – 3pm for
a guided walk on Bull Island, Cape Romain
National Wildlife Refuge. For more info and to
register, Call Coastal at 843-884-7684. www.
coastalexpeditions.
Shake off a Blue, Blue Christmas
Michael Viljac and the Elvis Tribute Band
will perform your favorite holiday songs as
performed by the King of Rock and Roll
himself at the Glenn L. Jeffers VFW, located
at 1411 Stuart Engals Blvd. in Mount Pleasant.
If you haven’t seen Michael Viljac performing
as Elvis the King, you are missing a fantastic
performance. Tickets are $10 and may be
purchased by calling 345-9084.
Great Outdoor Gear Sale
Come out to James Island County Park 9am to
12pm for your chance to get great deals on great
gear.  We’re selling some of the tents, kayaks,
 December 11, 2009
nt Calendar
- December 19
mountain bikes, camping accessories, and more
that we’ve used.  For more info, call 795-4386
or visit www.ccprc.com.
Charleston Ballet presents: The Nutcracker
December 12 & 13 Gaillard Auditorium,
and December 19 at the N. Chas. Performing
Arts Center. Set in the streets of downtown
Charleston circa 1865, the ballet has teamed
with the dance programs and children of the
Dorchester 2 school district for this massive
holiday production. This treasured classic is the
perfect remedy for the hustle and bustle of the
holiday season. Tickets may be at 723-7334 or
at the CBT Box Office at 477 King Street.
Sunday, December 13
Gemenids meteor shower
One of the most visible meteor showers of the
year, the meteors should become visible between
9 and 10pm, peaking at 2am on December 14
with as many as 50 meteors per hour.
Charlton Singleton Trio presents
Christmas Jazz Vespers
Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting
St. at 6pm. For more info, call 577-6400, email
circularchurch@bellsouth.net. 
Monday, December 14
Bulls Island archery-only deer hunt
The harvest of surplus animals is one tool used
to manage wildlife populations. Refuge hunting
permits are required. For more info, visit
www.fws.gov/caperomain, or call 928-3368.
December 14 – 19, 2009.
Wednesday, December 16
Folly Island Yoga
Every Wednesday from 6pm to 7:30pm at the
Holiday Inn. Cost is $40 for 4 sessions. For
9
more info, call Jenny at 607-9911.
Pet Life Care Plan seminar at
Sun Dog Cat Moon
Starting at 6pm, Dr. Ruth Roberts will be
speaking about developing a life care plan
for your pet. She will touch on new vaccine
protocols, wellness testing, as well as using food
and supplements to help keep the quality of life
high for pets as they age. Leashed and social
dogs are welcome! 2908 Maybank Highway
Johns Island, 437-0063, www.sundogcatmoon.
com
Thursday, December 17
Model Ship Building 101
Ship Shapes Maritime Arts is offering ongoing
community workshops for aspiring model ship
builders. No experience necessary. Instructor
William Thomas-Moore, professional model
shipwright, will guide you through the steps of
building a fine ship model. Folly Beach Baptist
Church. Call for schedule and more details.
762-6280. www.shipshapesgallery.blogspot.
com.
Saturday, December 19
Pet Helpers Open House
Visit us for Pet Helpers Holiday Open House
from 11am-3pm. Holiday treats, Santa photos
with your pet, and plenty of good cheer! 1447
Folly Road, James Island. 795-1110, www.
pethelpers.org.
CSO Holiday Pops
Join guest conductor Darko Butorac, the
Charleston Symphony Orchestra Chorus, and
the Charleston Children’s Chorus for holiday
sounds of the season. Gaillard Auditorium, 77
Calhoun St. at 8pm. Admission is $20-45/adults;
$5/children. For more info, call 723-7528, and
visit www.charlestonsymphony.com.
www.follycurrent.com
10 December 11, 2009

A tricky mystery plant

By Dr. John Nelson

If the fruit be not ripe it will draw a man’s

mouth to much torment.
— attributed to Captain John Smith of Jamestown

T
he unripe fruits of this
week’s mystery plant are

Photo by Linda Lee
Any idea what this tasty mystery plant is?
Brown-headed Nuthatch
hard and green, slowly
ripening to a beautifully frosted
pink-orange. Before they are
ripe, the fruits are inedible
and some would even describe
the taste as “astringent”. I have
bitten into an unripe fruit just
to see what it’s like, and the
inside of my mouth turned into
medicinal cardboard, a taste
that took a long while to go
away. Once, on one of my class
field trips, I invited a student
to bite into one of these things.
Not knowing any better, he did
and was similarly treated to
terrible cardboard mouth. I still
feel guilty about doing that,
and have vowed never to play a
trick on a student again (Well,
see Plant on page 14

photo by Sarah Dargan Harper

T
he Brown-headed Nuthatch is a small passerine (perching bird) about 3.5
inches long. This species of nuthatch, like other members of the nuthatch
family, has distinctive foraging habits. Nuthatches feed by hopping up and
down tree trunks and sometimes hanging upside down, in search of insects. The
Brown-headed Nuthatch is frequently seen using small pieces of bark as tools: the
birds wedge the chips between gaps and pry off other pieces of bark from the trunks.
This species is found only in the Southeastern United States, mostly in pine forests.
(A small and dwindling population of Brown-headed Nuthatches is found in the
Bahamas). Although these birds usually forage in pine trees for both pine seeds and
insects, they will also frequent bird feeders where safflower seeds or suet are offered.
They are curious and are easily-approachable.

www.follycurrent.com
December 11, 2009 11

The weather outside is trout-ful

D e c e mb e r f i s h i n g r e p o r t
By Captain Geoff Bennett

W
ith the chilly
weather quickly
moving in you
might think that fish are
nowhere to be found, but it’s a
different story below the waves.
It takes a long time for our
local waters to completely cool
off from the scorching days of
August. Water temperatures
are now in the low 60s and
will drop modestly into the
high 50s by the end of the
month. December can be a
very hospitable month for both
trout and redfish.
This crisp weather, with its
occasional cold snaps, really
turns on the trout. Pretty
much all tactics are working
for trout: both artificials and
live bait are working as the
trout are feeding aggressively.
This is a great time of year to
get your young fisherman (or
fisherwoman) “hooked” on
fishing.
For the trout, we are using 3” D.O.A.
plastic shrimp underneath a popping
cork and it is a great setup. These shrimp
come in a wide assortment of colors
ranging from realistic lighter tones to
bright attractor colors. I’ve found the best
success comes from using the Glow color,
which is basically white, as well as their
Glitter colors which are translucent and
filled with glitter. To me, these colors best
represent what a live shrimp would look
like. The Fiji Chicken color has become
popular this season and is quite effective.
These artificial shrimp already have
weights inside their bodies, with the ¼
oz. weight being the most common. The
weight makes the lure fall naturally into
the water. Don’t be afraid to change the
length of your leader as trout may sit in
different parts of the water column.
One of the most interesting phenomena
that occur when winter begins is the large
schools of redfish that begin to form on
the flats. They will develop these giant
schools and stay in them throughout the
winter. They bunch together as a means
of protection from predators, namely
and setup nearby while waiting
for the fish to eventually come
close to the boat. Live bait,
especially chunks of blue crab,
work very well when allowed to
sit on the bottom. Redfish will
happily devour these offerings!
The water is also becoming
quite clear as the vegetation
that was present in the summer
has cleared out. Fly fishing is
simply terrific as we stalk these
big schools of redfish on the
flats. The water clarity allows
you to spot redfish from quite a
distance. It is an awesome sight
to see literally hundreds of fish
balled up together in one spot.
Watching the water erupt and
boil when you hook into one
fish is an experience like no
other.
See you on the water!
Capt. Geoff Bennett operates
Charleston Charter Fishing
providing fly fishing and light tackle charters.
Clients choose from a full menu of fly rods,
artificial and live bait fishing options with
charters tailored to their desires. USCG
licensed and insured, Capt. Bennett is
committed to providing a safe and enjoyable
charter to anglers of all skill levels and ages.
For more information, call Capt. Bennett
at 324-3332, visit his website at www.

S u dok u -sol u tion bottlenose dolphins. As a result, these

schools are quite skittish and spook easily.
One of the best tactics is to locate a school
charlestoncharterfishing.com or email him
at captain@charlestoncharterfishing.com.

Folly B each T i d e Ch a rt
Date High Tide Low Tide
Dec 11 3:27am/3:32pm 9:31am/9:43pm
Dec 12 4:22am/4:27pm 10:29am/10:35pm
Dec 13 5:14am/5:18pm 11:23am/11:24pm
Dec 14 6:02am/6:05pm 12:12pm
Dec 15 6:47am/6:50pm 12:10am/12:57pm
Dec 16 7:29am/7:32pm 12:54am/1:40pm
Dec 17 8:10am/8:12pm 1:35am/2:20pm
Dec 18 8:48am/8:51pm 2:14am/2:59pm
Dec 19 9:26am/9:30pm 2:51am/3:37pm
Dec 20 10:02am/10:09pm 3:28am/4:13pm
Dec 21 10:39am/10:50pm 4:07am/4:50pm
Dec 22 11:16am/11:34pm 4:48am/5:28pm
Dec 23 11:58am 5:35am/6:10pm
Dec 24 12:23am/12:45pm 6:29am/6:57pm

www.follycurrent.com
12 December 11, 2009

The following is a summary of police reports
provided by the Folly Beach Public Safety
Department for November 14-29.
November 14: The sexual adventures of
a young couple were discovered when an
officer investigated an illegally parked
vehicle at a beach access. He found them
surrounded by 24 ounce Coors Light cans
on the beach. As they were getting up, a
small bag of marijuana and pipe fell out
of the young man’s pants. Furthermore,
both were given field sobriety tests and
neither were fit to drive. A tow truck was
called and an inventory search of the
vehicle revealed more marijuana in the
center console. Both were cited for the
marijuana and paraphernalia possession.
The male was additionally cited for the
open containers on the beach while the
female was cited for underage drinking.
November 16: A boat trailer was stolen
from the back of a vehicle while parked at
the boat landing.
November 17: A bicycle was reported
stolen and the victim believed the theft
occurred sometime in the previous two
weeks. The bike was a green beach cruiser
with a Grateful Dead sticker on the cross
bar between the handlebars and the seat.
November 21: An officer using radar
caught a woman going 56mph in a 35mph
zone on Folly Road. The driver had a
suspended license and had two outstanding
traffic tickets. She was cited for driving
with a suspended license and speeding.
The vehicle was towed and a friend of the
Police Reports
subject arrived for transportation.
November 23: A car was illegally parked at
the 5th Street beach access at about 11pm
and an officer discovered three young men
on the beach nearby with several empty
beer cans scattered next to them. One man
identified himself as the driver of the car
and the officer noticed him hiding a can
of Busch Lite in his jacket as he walked
past to move the vehicle. He was told that
it was illegal to have an open container
on the beach and the officer asked for his
identification. With slurred speech, he
stated he didn’t have any identification.
As a result, he was placed in handcuffs
and the officer found the subject’s wallet
and identification which stated that he
was only 20 years old. He was placed in
the back of the police car while the officer
spoke to the other two individuals, both
19 years old, who stated all the beer on
the beach belonged to the subject. Twice,
while the officer spoke to them, the subject
managed to bring his hands back to the
front of his body and the officer had to
restrain him again and advise him to stop.
The subject was arrested and the two other
individuals picked up the beer cans on the
beach.
November 27: A man who had been put
on trespass notice at the Kangaroo Store
returned and had to be told several times
by employees to leave. Officers were unable
to locate the subject at that time. He was
located the next day at Planet Follywood
and was cited for the incident at that
location after he admitted to being there.
November 28: A man and woman were
arrested outside of Bert’s around 4pm after
arguing very loudly, being intoxicated and
being unreasonable with the responding
officers. The male involved had a dog
with him which was taken to the City’s
kennel. The female involved had a car on
the scene and said her parents would pick
up the vehicle. Later, after the two were
processed, an officer drove past Bert’s and
noticed the car was running but parked
across the street from the Red Dot with no
one in it. The store clerk stated that “they”
attempted to buy more alcohol, but service
was refused because they were too drunk.
November 28: A complainant reported
that a man who used to rent one of his
properties was making threatening phone
calls demanding his deposit back and
wanted the calls stopped. An officer called
the subject, who stated the complainant
was making the threats. Both were advised
to leave the other alone and to settle things
in small claims court.
November 29: Several complaints were
received regarding two barking dogs over
the previous weekend, but the owner was
not home during the times that the police
responded. Police were able to make phone
contact this day and advised the dogs’
owner of the problem. He gave police
permission to take the dogs to the kennel
until he arrived home. He was expected
to be cited for the noise disturbance upon
his arrival.
November 29: A woman was walking her
dog on the beach when two unleashed
dogs ran up to her dog in an “aggressive”
manner. Police were contacted and they
located the dogs and their owner. When
asked for identification, the dogs’ owner
stated it was at his residence a few houses
away and the officer followed him to get it.
The subject entered the residence through
the sliding glass door and the officer
noticed a jar containing what appeared to
be marijuana on a table. The officer then
told the subject to stop and informed him
he was now under investigation for drug
possession. The subject and roommate both
consented to a search after an explanation
of a “voluntary consent search form” was
given. Eleven grams of marijuana as well
as paraphernalia were confiscated. Both
individuals were cited for the “green plant
material” and the paraphernalia. The
original subject was also cited for his dogs
not being leashed.
November 29: A golf cart was reported
stolen from a residence which was also
the object of an attempted break-in. The
subject attempted to gain entry through
the front door, but
was stopped by a dead
bolt. He then broke into
the area that housed the
golf cart. A description
of the golf cart was
provided to police.

Israel from page 7
pretty rough family situation, but as Michael puts it, “he
lived past that”. With a friend, he moved from Seattle to
the Washington, D.C. area. When that didn’t work out,
they basically put their finger on the map and picked out
Charleston, South Carolina, and they lived in the area for
five years before calling Folly Beach home.
David’s love for plants and landscaping was apparent in
his extracurricular activities. David was an active member
of the Charleston Horticulture Society and the Folly Beach
Home & Garden Club. His beloved garden was the scene
for many local social gatherings that often numbered
between 200-300 people. The eclectic nature of the party
guests was a reflection of the character of Folly Beach.
There would be Folly locals, friends from downtown,
business associates and more all intermingling together.
A very wealthy man would be having a conversation with
a financially poor man, Michael noted, but Folly’s unique
ability to accept anyone always shone through. “People
don’t care what your last name is,” Michael says.
Some may remember David for the parties. Others
may remember him as a person who really knew his way
around the yard. But for those who could call him friend,
Michael said the hardest thing to forget will be his smile.
“David always smiled,” said Michael, a hint of sadness in
his voice. “He had a beautiful smile; a real smile.”
Life begets life
We usually don’t notice a plant until it flowers, but it
is there long before we see it. It has its own cycle of life;
from seed to root to growth, blossom to death.
David’s season passed sometime between June 25 and
July 2 of 2007. He had been attending real estate school
at night and it was not unusual for him to get home as
late as 11pm. At some point, he stopped at the Turtle
Bay dock before going home. Michael knew something
was wrong when he woke the next morning and David
had not been home and he frantically began to call his
phone. Later that evening, he received a call from David’s
cell phone, but it was not David on the line. A man had
noticed a set of keys and a cell phone on the dock when
he had taken his boat out earlier in the day. He grew
suspicious when the items were still on the dock upon his
return that afternoon, so he called the last number that
had called.
David’s body was found on July 2 at Snake Island. His
death was ruled as a probable drowning.
David had requested that no flowers be brought to
his funeral as they would only die and be thrown out.
Instead, Michael requested that anyone who wished to
express their condolences should give a financial donation
to the Folly Beach Garden Club and the Charleston
Horticulture Society in David’s name. It was from this
response that the memory garden grew. Donations were
so overwhelming that there was enough for the costly
project of building a garden. With cooperation from the
City of Folly Beach, the Garden Club procured the plot
of land behind the Community Center and financed the
David Israel Memorial Garden.
www.follycurrent.com
An emotional Folly
While David’s death resulted in the birth of a garden
that will create memories for visitors long after his passing,
the search for David’s body revealed the heart of the Folly
Beach community for at least one man.
While the memory is undoubtedly painful, Michael
can recall the love and compassion expressed by the
community during those frightful days when David’s
fate was unknown. The police were especially careful
and polite. Boat owners who did not know Michael and
David spent hours a day searching. The local jet ski rental
company even closed their business for a few days so that
their equipment could be utilized.
“It was overwhelming,” Michael recalled.
The funeral was held at the couple’s home on Folly
Beach. Surrounded by his passion, a woman sang the
hymn, “In the Garden”. The words and the beauty of her
voice stopped strangers walking by and put tears in the
eyes of everyone who sat in David’s garden that day.
It is the sad habit of human beings to realize the true
value and impact of a person only after they are gone.
Long after the memory of David is gone, he will continue
to touch others through the Memory Garden. It may
become the inspiration for a poem. It may provide comfort
to a stranger. It may be the site of a first kiss where a new
love will blossom. But it is the memory of love that built
the foundation of the garden, and the strength of human
compassion that made it possible.
December 11, 2009
By Megan Carroll
T
his animated feature film is another in a growing
genre of smart, interesting and meaningful story
telling a la Roald Dahl. Fantastic Mr. Fox is
exquisite in its execution and is darned fun to watch.
With its fidgety stop-motion animation, one can feel the
incredible depth and self awareness among the characters,
emphasized by the elegantly detailed shots. Director Wes
Anderson creates a cunning and witty film for all ages.
Although I’ve got to say that kids might enjoy it at one
level, adults will enjoy it even more.
Anderson and co-writer Noah Baumbach adapted
Roald Dahl’s 1970 children’s book into a fantastic visual
and aural journey. Anderson is a well known director and
screen writer who is best known for his work on The Royal
Tenenbaums. Anderson’s dry sense of humor and ability
13
to create poignant portrayals of each of his characters
allows his work to really come to life.
Not surprisingly, the movie centers around Mr. Fox
(voiced by George Clooney), a confident charming fox that
promises his fox wife (Meryl Streep) and fox son (Jason
Schwartzman) that he will stop the dangerous business
of stealing from the hen houses of the Town’s three evil
ranchers, and settle down into a normal 9-5 existence.
Despite having everything he needs, he still feels the urge
to return to his dodgy lifestyle. In his words, “How can a
fox ever be happy without - you’ll forgive the expression -
in the puffs of smoke and underground tunnels. I found
a chicken in its teeth?” So he creates a master plan to hit
myself lost, not only in the characters themselves, but in
the three evil ones-- Boggis, Bunce and Bean -- for one
all of the incredibly fine details. It is as though the film
last ride on the wild side! Soon, Mr. Fox finds himself
actually breathes. Every part of it is alive with fine detail
over his head and now what once was a personal war
and brilliant character development. It is unlike any other
consumes the entire nearby
animated film I have ever seen.
animal neighborhood.
The film is made all the better by a phenomenal human
The film is a living work
cast of voices; George Clooney, Meryl Streep, Owen
of cinematic art. Everything
Wilson, William Defoe and Bill Murray are just a few of
is very real in this film,
the verbal actors contributing to the film. Fantastic Mr.
down to the moving hair
Fox is a visually arresting twisted-ly funny. This is tops on
on the character’s faces,
the list of holiday family flicks!
the miniature hand-sewn
outfits, and to the details
www.follycurrent.com
14
Charleston International Plant from page 10
not that trick anyway).
Film Festival Poster This is a common tree from New
England into the Midwest, and south
through all of Florida, and over to Texas.
Competition
It is usually a small or “medium” sized
tree, although one of the largest in the
The Charleston International Film Festival (CIFF) will conduct a juried poster world is over 120’ tall, right here in
competition to select the featured image of the 2010 Festival. Finalists will be posted central South Carolina. Its bark is rough
online at www.CharlestonIFF.com, and the public will be allowed to comment on and checkered, and broken into dark,
submissions via Facebook and Twitter. The competition is free and open to the public. scaly blocks. The 4-6” long leaves are
The winning image will be used as the official 2010 Festival poster which will be deep green in the summer (somewhat
displayed at the American Theater and select locations. chalky on the lower side) and they turn
a brilliant yellow or orange-red in the
There are no design guidelines for the poster competition; however, entries that
fall. Interestingly, wherever a leaf has
celebrate the art of film and reflect the energy and creativity of the Festival will be most
been chewed on or otherwise wounded,
strongly considered. Entries are due by January 4, 2010. The winner will receive $100,
the tissue right around the wound turns
recognition in local papers and on the CIFF website, and a VIP Festival Pass valid
black. The trees are either male or female,
for all films, panels and after-parties. More information about how to enter the poster
competition can be found online at www.CharlestonIFF.com. bearing unisexual flowers. The wood
CIFF is an international film and screenplay competition, dedicated to showcasing of this species is dark, hard and very
the art and talent of emerging filmmakers and writers from the Lowcountry, the U.S., durable. In fact, during the era of king
and around the world. This four day event takes place April 8-11, 2010, at The American cotton, this tree was an important source
Theater in historic downtown Charleston. Now in its third year, CIFF attracts visitors of loom shuttles in mills.
and aficionados from all over, and explores all genres of film across a wide range of This species is entirely confined to
subject matter. North America, but it has about 200
close relatives in Africa and Indonesia,
some of which are prized for their fruits
which are often available in markets (One
other relative grows in central Texas). All
of these species are members of the ebony
family, and it is the true ebony tree whose
dark, hard wood has historically been the
Mystery plant pie
Ingredients:
1 9 inch single crust pie
2 eggs
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup white sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups half-and-half cream
1 cup mystery plant pulp
2 tablespoons butter, melted
1 teaspoon lemon juice
www.follycurrent.com
December 11, 2009
source for piano keys.
Our mystery plant isn’t very picky
about where it grows, and it does
well in a variety of settings and soils.
The combination of handsome bark,
attractive foliage (summer and fall) and
fruit make this an excellent choice for
the home landscape.
Back to the fruits. When they are
fully ripe, the fruits are delicious. If
you’ve never tried one, you must. They
are ready to eat when they are soft,
almost mushy, and you can gather them
from the ground (just brush the sand off
and remove the seeds). There are plenty
of recipes out there for ripe persimmons,
including savory puddings, bread, and
even ice cream.
John Nelson is the curator of the Herbarium
at the University of South Carolina, in
the Department of Biological Sciences.
As a public service, the Herbarium offers
free plant identifications. For more
information, visit www.herbarium.org or
call 803-777-8196.
Answer:
“Persimmon,” Diospyros virginiana
Directions:
Preheat oven to 450 degrees F (230
degrees C).
Combine eggs, cinnamon, sugar, and
salt. Mix in cream, mystery plant pulp,
melted butter, and lemon juice. Pour
into unbaked pie shell.
Bake for 10 minutes. Reduce heat to
350 degrees F (175 degrees C), and
bake an additional 30 minutes. Cool
before slicing.
December 11, 2009
Volunteer from page 5
that Habitat has been providing.  Here
were houses filled with families that
wouldn’t be able to afford proper housing
otherwise. I drove to the end of the
neighborhood and pulled up to the job
site, not knowing what to expect. They
were in the process of working on three
houses at the same time.  I met Mike,
who worked full-time for Habitat. He
asked if I had any roofing experience.I
didn’t, but I was willing to try anything.
I grabbed my leather tool belt and trusty
hammer and the next thing I knew I was
roofing. At the end of the day my hands
were blistered, but we had laid shingles
on a large part of the house. Without
the help of volunteers and donations of
money and materials, these houses could
not be built. 
LEEP  (Lowcountry  Environmental
Education Program) was founded in
Charleston 10 years ago. Its mission is, “to
provide opportunities for students of all
ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds
to explore South Carolina’s natural
environment through experiential
learning”.  They were kind enough to
let me tag along with their Executive
Director Ian Sanchez on a trip to Bull’s
Bay with a group of kids. I had no idea
what to expect.  To start, we greeted a
group of third graders and jumped on
the Bull’s Bay Ferry. On the Ferry ride,
our guide and fearless leader Ian amazed
me at the way he instantly grabbed
15
the kids’ attention and proceeded to Letters from page 4 on individual taxpayers and that we
educate them about the wildlife that eliminated the proposed increases
The County’s tax millage did not change. mentioned in the previous letter. I and
existed in the area. At the ripe age of
Unfortunately, Local Option Sales Tax the rest of Council continue to look at
32, I realized it’s been over 20 years
receipts, of which County Council ways to reduce County expenditures and
since I had participated in a third grade
gives 100 percent of collections back to stretch the decreasing funds under
class discussion and was amazed at the
in the form of a credit against property which we are operating.
knowledge, curiosity and willingness to
taxes, decreased substantially due to the
learn that these kids possessed. I was told Citizens are welcome to contact me
recession. Council is still returning 100
by Ian that most of the kids that go on any time with questions by phone at
percent of collections to citizens as a
LEEP trips have never been to the ocean 937-8000 or by e-mail at pthurmond@
credit against property taxes, but because
even though they have grown up so close tktlawfirm.com.
sales tax receipts decreased, the credit
to it.  Watching first hand as we hiked
also decreased.
around the island, I could really see Sincerely,
It is important for residents to
what a difference this organization was
understand that County Council is Paul Thurmond
making on the Charleston community.
mindful of the impact of the recession Chas. County Council Vice-Chairman
The highlight of the trip came when we
discovered a mother alligator in her nest. 
She was far enough away that she was
not threatened, but close enough for us
to hear her hiss at us.
While I was donating my time to help
others, the experience was a blessing for
me, as well. In fact, the impact was so
great that I am determined to continue
this work with other non-profits, donating
my time as the economy dictates. For
anyone who has ever thought about
working with a non-profit, the simple
response is, “just do it”! You won’t be
disappointed.
For more information or to donate to these
great Charleston charities look them up on
their Web sites: www.seaislandhabitat.org
and www.scleep.org.
www.follycurrent.com
16 December 11, 2009

www.follycurrent.com