PERMIT NO 27

FOLLY BEACH, SC
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PRESORT STANDARD
Vol. 3 Issue 9 Folly Beach’s Newspaper February 18, 2011 w FREE

Love ‘em or loathe ‘em

C r u i s e l i n e r s i m pa c t o u r b a r r i e r i s l a n d s
By Blake Bunch

C
harleston has been a port of call for cruise ships
since 1969, but not nearly to the extent of capacity
and frequency that is seen today. Ships that called
on Charleston during the early 1970s carried a capacity
of about 700 people, and very rarely came to port as
often as they do currently. Larger cruise liners such as
the Mercury or Carnival Fantasy boast up to 2,000 and
3,000 passengers, respectively.
Although these cruise liners have been docking at the
port of Charleston for nearly forty years, the size and
frequency of visiting ships recently moved Folly Beach
City Council and residents to action.
Kate Zimmerman, Project Manager for the Coastal
Conservation League (CCL), spoke before the Folly
Council during their last meeting in regards to the
possible environmental effects of this industry. “Folly
Beach and other barrier islands need to adopt safeguards
to monitor and enforce compliance with these cruise
lines,” Zimmerman stated. Basically, they need to be held
accountable for their actions; something which many feel
has not been the case with cruise ships in the past.
Zimmerman definitely wanted to stress the point that
the CCL does not want cruise ships completely banned
from the Port City. Their goal is to increase accountability,
bridging the trust gap between the industry and citizens. Frank Hefner of the College of Charleston. This report for Folly Beach includes requesting cruise ships to expel
also estimated an additional 111,303 tourists that were pollutants 12 miles offshore instead of three. The SPA
The two major cruise lines operating out of Union
likely to spend $5,552,496 while in port. wishes to reach over 100 ports of call within the year,
Pier in Downtown Charleston are Carnival (Holland
With all of this tourism money being thrown around, multiplying the amount of waste, sewage, and heavy
America, Princess Cruises, Cunard) and Celebrity
it is obvious why the City of Charleston is very fond of pedestrian and vehicular traffic. These ships are powered
(Royal Caribbean). And while many residents along our
these ships. Folly Beach, on the other hand, feels a little by bunker fuel, and the incinerators on board release
barrier islands may be concerned about the increase in
differently. carcinogens into the air.
air pollution from these ships, the cruise line industry
also maintains steady jobs for stevedores at the expanding According to CCL’s website, “These ships discharge Kate Zimmerman set up a brief history of the issue.
Union Pier, as well as brings in throngs of tourists who harmful levels of ammonia, fecal coliform bacteria, zinc, “Research shows that there were several violations in the
support our local businesses. copper, and other pollutants.” In United States waters, late 1990s, which resulted from a bust by then-Attorney
these cruise lines can legally dump untreated sewage and General Janet Reno. There were several settlements that
According to an article by Stratton Lawrence, “Are
“gray water” three miles offshore. “Gray water” is basically occurred as a result, in which industry leaders had to agree
cruise ships harmless fun or an environmental scourge?”,
drainage from the galley, showers and sinks of the vessel, to ‘green plans.’ The problem was that the stipulations of
in the April 7, 2010, edition of the Charleston City Paper,
pharmaceuticals, and other “light” pollutants. If this these green plans with environmental groups were that
the cumulative impact of ships visiting Charleston in
waste is treated, it can be dumped earlier. However, solid they were not allowed to talk about cruise waste.”
2010 brought an estimated $37 million to the city and
supported 407 full-time jobs. This information was sewage (plastics, garbage, etc.) is typically incinerated Another goal of the CCL is to proclaim the Charleston
provided in a report commissioned by the State Ports onboard or dumped out at sea.
Authority (SPA) and conducted by John Crotts and The Coastal Conservation League’s proposed plan Cruise ships continued on page 3

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E Dating Follies page 5 Salt Marsh Diaries page 6 Help the K ervins page 7
2 February 18, 2011
civic
Folly Beach City Council - February 8, 2011
By Blake Bunch
Work Session Homeowners Association ceding 84 people. they could put some of their equipment.
Council focused their work session on the marshland to the City in exchange Mayor Pro Tem Laura Beck motioned Yetman did state that they may have
issue of surf camps this summer. for “the old pump station.” Two days to approve the season kickoff tournament, to close a few streets down to through
Mayor Pro Tem Beck talked about after the meeting, council received as well as the meeting times and location. traffic, and would make arrangements to
the contribution the surf camps bring communications from an attorney Council member D.J. Rich then allow residents to get to their driveways.
to the beach. These camps require CPR representing Little Oak Island who informed Webb that March 12 was the Three officers would be participating in
training, and give a lot back to the provided another stipulation to the scheduled celebratory St. Patty’s Day, and running traffic more smoothly, as well as
community. The Tides hotel wants to contract. Council member McCarty Webb said that if they could switch the protecting the cast and crew. The activity
offer camps for people that are staying then asked Council to rescind their weekend, they would be glad to push it would begin as early as noon, but they
with them, whether it involves surfing, action on Ordinance No. 03-11. He feels back a week or so. He then said he would wouldn’t close the streets until around
sea creatures, or other activities. Mayor that, at this point, Little Oak Island has speak with his colleagues, and come back four. They would stay on the beach over
Pro tem Beck further spoke about how recognized the ordinance, and Council before the next council meeting. the weekend, and would not block the
the camps had to get a business license, member McCarty removed his motion to Council unanimously approved the streets or cause any delay with traffic
and spoke about another possible paddle rescind the first reading. motion for the Charleston Bocci League. otherwise. Officers would be employed
boarding camp that could occur near the Coleman Herto, with Hill off duty, and should cause much of an
west side of the island. Personal Appearances Construction, then spoke before council less impact than last year, according to
Mayor Goodwin questioned whether Municipal Clerk Mary Cunningham requesting to work on Saturdays. He Yetman. Yetman also stated that they
they should have one particular camp stated that, in regards to Folly Gras, the assured council that this would help would need to use some equipment on
or several which would involve surfing, Mayor wanted her to speak with business with their work greatly, especially in the beach, including the use of a gator,
paddle boarding, kite boarding, and/or owners in terms of the new route, and exterior work, as recent days have been and a vehicle similar to a forklift.
other water sports. noted that the general consensus was that cold and rainy, and the weekends would The motion to approve Mr. Yetman’s
Council member D.J. Rich said that they are pleased with it. The new route allow them to make up for lost time. He request was approved unanimously.
most of the camps occur relatively early will start at Tides, going to Hudson, and said that all of his men continue to ask
in the morning and typically don’t parade exit on E. Hudson. No bridges him to work on Saturday, and that they Citizen’s Comments
involve tourists, and if the hotel were will close, and the parade hours will are trying to finish the building as fast Nancy Smith of 1207 Tabby Drive
to have a surf camp it would be more take place from 1-5 p.m. with businesses as they can. He has been aggressively wanted to say thank you to Eric Lutz
geared towards tourism. He felt that if allowed to put up tents starting at noon. scheduling, trying to jam as much work of the Surfriders Foundation, and the
they could do this before noon and after The parade officially start at 2 p.m. on in as he can. Folly Business Association for their
6 p.m., that these camps would not cause February 26. Mayor Pro Tem Laura Beck requested work in beach cleaning, as well as beach
much congestion. Next to speak was Adam Webb, with that Mr. Herto enumerate what days they management patrol and monetary help.
Council then moved into the issue the Folly Bocci League and Beach Sweep. would need to work, and motioned to She reminded the council that the dates
of managed parking, discussing He stated that he attended the Council approve his request to work on Saturday, of May 1 to September 30 are “Lights
several of the current key problems meeting about a year ago reporting except for February 26, and until the Out” periods for sea turtle nesting.
which include the management of the for the Charleston Bocci League. He end of March between 10-6 p.m.
meters, destruction of the meters, and said that the league had 26 two-player Council member Paul Hume also Ordinances
the outrageous prices of the machines teams which played 12 weeks of Bocci asked Mr. Herto if they were still going Ordinance No. 01-11 An Ordinance
themselves. and concluded with an end of the year to be working in March. amending the Folly Beach Code of
tournament. Beach sweeps held by the Council member Eddie Ellis stated Ordinances, Title III, Administration,
Regular Meeting league were very successful, and Webb that he works outside as well, and has Chapter 31; City government; 31.21,
Council member McCarty stated that, requested that the league be able to do been able to complete the painting of Meetings (Second Reading). The
at the conclusion of the last meeting, both the tournaments and sweeps again horizontal surfaces on time. He feels like ordinance passed 4-2, with council
the Council approved the first reading this year. The league would meet at 3rd the weather is not as intense as Mr. Herto members Ellis and Clamp dissenting.
of Ordinance No. 03-11, which dealt Block from 6:30-8 p.m. on Tuesday or says it is, because he is “getting the job Council member Eddie Ellis stated
with a land swap with the Little Oak Wednesday nights from May 31 until the done.” that he has had citizens express concern
Island Homeowners Association. This end of August with a kickoff tournament The motion to approve Hill about his “nay” vote in regards to this
would involve the Little Oak Island on March 12 which would be limited to Construction’s work on Saturdays passed ordinance, involving the scheduling of
6-1, with Mayor Goodwin dissenting. town meetings. He then motioned to
CORRECTION: Next to speak was Mr. Steve Yetman, amend the ordinance to “go back to the
In the February 4 edition of The Folly Current, we accidently listed Council with the TV show Army Wives. This is way the meetings were.”
member DJ Rich as recusing himself from a vote concerning “Taste of Folly,” the fourth time they have come out to
when in fact he had recused himself from a vote concerning FollyGras, which will film on Folly, and they would be filming Ordinance No. 02-11 An Ordinance
be held this coming February 26. We apologize for the error. at 10th Block, 1001 E. Artic. The crew amending the Folly Beach Code of
would park in a lot at E. Indian, and they
have a lot or two on E. Ashley in which Council continued on page 4

www.follycurrent.com
February 18, 2011
Dear Editor,
We have lived at Folly Beach for six
years. I understand that THE BOAT
that washed ashore from Hurricane
Hugo is a sacred symbol and a unique
way to display messages.   As a writer,
I appreciate the creativity.   But as a
tax-payer, nature lover and litter picker-
upper, it is beyond me why anyone would
spray paint the highway with graffiti.  It
is absolutely covered not just by the
boat, but keep on walking!!!   There are
no boundaries or limits.   I can only
imagine the toxins running off the boat
and highway into the marsh when it
rains.  Where is DHEC?   Where are the
Folly Beach police?   This has bothered
me for six years, but this weekend an
incident absolutely pushed me to the
edge of so-called America.
As we drove by the boat, at least 20
cars were parked along the highway
and as many folks or more were bent
over spray painting up and down the
highway.   Don’t believe me.   Stop and
look at it. All the fresh new paint in
big letters. Pathetic! I called the FB
police and they called me back within
10 minutes.   The officer asked me if I
had called once before. I said no.   He
said this was the second call he received
complaining about the situation and
that he had already driven out to the
boat once and talked to the family. He
said he would go out again and inform
them again it is against the law to deface
state property. Wonder if he wrote them
a ticket? I offered to drive back out to the
boat and identify the offenders. In their
defense, he said that someone had passed
away and the family was spray painting
a memorial. Okay, I am sorry for your
loss.  You have the right and blessing of
the city of Folly to spray paint toxins on
THE BOAT.  But this is no excuse to
defame the highway. Paint your message
on THE BOAT.
My point is that the city of Folly
Beach either enforce the law or, dare I say
the unthinkable, “GET RID OF THE
BOAT.” You write tickets for parking on
the highway, for letting a dog off-leash,
and for being drunk. How many tickets
have you written for folks defacing the
highway - state property that uses our
tax dollars?   Graffiti is considered a
form of litter and is a crime. Check
out Keep America Beautiful and state
laws. Charleston is a member. Is Folly
Beach? Our highway leading into the
FOLLY ANIMAL SERVICE:
Please report all Lost or Found pets on Folly Beach
immediately. Call 588-2433 and ask for Folly
Animal Service or a police officer. All resident
animals must be registered with the City of Folly
Beach annually and tags must be attached to the
pet’s collar. Tag cost $3 and may be purchased at
Folly Beach Public Safety, located at City Hall.
Letters to the editor
beautiful marsh lands of Folly should
reflect the tranquility and naturalness of
the very place we love.  Instead, it is an
absolute disgrace by THE BOAT. What
message are we really sending to visitors
and those of us who live here and
have to drive by the graffiti every day?
I would appreciate a response from
city officials and DHEC or whoever
is responsible for keeping our marsh
waters clean and highways litter free.
thepalmettopen@yahoo.com
_____________________
Volunteer or Vigilante?
Dear Editor,
My kids are right!  I am
old-fashioned,  apparently ‘out of style’,
and  from a bygone era.  I remember
when neighbors would smile and wave,
bake cookies for you when you first
moved in, lend a cup of sugar, share
the bounty from a summer garden and
even offer to listen when you just needed
a friend.  Things sure are a changin’ at
Folly Beach.  Now the city government
is recruiting fellow citizen neighbors
to be “Volunteers in Police Service” to
augment the police administrative staff
by “doing clerical-related work” and/
or suiting up as a “volunteer parking
enforcement specialist.”
I miss the old days! Webster  defines
a vigilante as  “a member of a volunteer
committee organized to suppress and
punish crime summarily”.  So frankly,
I’m a little leery of VIPS.  I want my
old Folly back, not an island where
neighbors have access to private  police
records, and the power and authority to
ticket and fine you. 
Don’t get me wrong. My father
and brothers were in law enforcement
and I have a great deal of respect and
appreciation for public safety officers.
They often have degrees and specialized
training.  So I say leave “enforcement”
to the pros, and leave neighbors to offer
helping hands to those in need, not
parking citations. Folly has a very diverse,
even eclectic, population. No one citizen
should be given dominion over another.
We all live on this small island together.  arrangements with Carnival and/
Shouldn’t we learn to respect each other’s
privacy and lifestyles?
To my neighbors at Folly Beach with
www.follycurrent.com
3
time and talents, I’d recommend any
of the abundant community volunteer
opportunities such as Pet Helpers, Lynn Pierotti
Meals on Wheels, Hospice, tutoring, publisher
beach sweeps, Folly’s Turtle  Watch lynn@luckydognews.com
Program,  CCPRC,  hospital visitation
Kristin Hackler
or outreach at your place of worship. That managing editor
way you can make a positive difference! kristin@luckydognews.com
 
Cynthia Wiles Stratton Lawrence
editor
314 Shadow Race Lane stratton@luckydognews.com
Swan Richards
senior graphic designer
Submit your comments to the Folly swan@luckydognews.com
Current at www.FollyCurrent.com Meredith Powell
and click “submissions”, or email reporter
them to comments@luckydognews.com. meredith@luckydognews.com
Blake Bunch
reporter
Cruise ships continued from cover blake@luckydognews.com
Harbor a “no discharge zone,” which Lori Dalton
prohibits cruise liners from dumping sales manager
raw sewage anywhere in the harbor. lori@luckydognews.com
Key West has recently been deemed
one after years of struggle. Richard Brendel
advertising
Who can enforce these 843-478-0896
regulations? richard@luckydognews.com
The United States Coast Guard can •
choose to board ships up to four times Contributors
a year. Since September 11, however, Lindsey Graham
boarding cruise ships frequently hasn’t Jud Pushkar
really been their gig. They are more
Brent Ashley
Anton DuMars
concerned with shoreline protection,
Alan Kleinfeld
rescue operations, and evacuation
Fay A.
needs and precaution, and have little
Joel Flores
time to devote to these inspections. Ju-C Sparks
Cruise lines are also a very Megan Carroll
profitable industry, bringing in about Vince Perna
Pet Helpers
$2.5 billion annually. Charleston,
being the port city that it is, takes
Published by
pride in providing waterfront jobs, Lucky Dog Publishing
and as long as there is a harbor, those
of South Carolina, LLC
jobs will be in high demand. Cruise P.O. Box 837
ships also are providing steady hours Sullivan’s Island, SC 29482
for dock workers to load and unload 843-886-NEWS
these vessels, and numerous passenger/
parking fees are garnered at the port, March 4 Paper Deadline:
which help financially with the rapid
February 23 for submissions.
expansion of Union Pier. The Folly Current, a wholly owned
According to Carnival stevedore subsidiary of Lucky Dog Publishing of
Gary Santos, “A lot of these people South Carolina LLC, is a free, indepen-
who take these trips on these ships are dent newspaper published every two
weeks and is for and about Folly Beach.
first-time visitors to Charleston. They Copies are mailed free of charge to ev-
get to see a little bit of the city, and ery active mailbox in our coverage area
when they see it, they all inevitably and are also available at area business-
want to come back.” es and by subscription to non-islanders.
Subscriptions are $39 per year for non-
The City of Folly Beach’s proposed residents and are available by sending
a check to Lucky Dog Publishing, LLC,
or other cruise lines would include a P.O. Box 837, Sullivan’s Island, SC
29482. Our editorial content is primar-
clause that requires them to issue their
ily dedicated to the area of distribution;
discharge records to the city upon ad space is open to all businesses who
request. want to reach the Folly Beach market.
There are the obvious economic Complete ad creation is $50, however,
advantages, but the potential damage
changes of up to 30% of the original ad
are included at no extra cost. All adver-
to our local environment needs to be tising rates are listed at www.islandey-
balanced out. For the sake of barrier enews.com under “advertising”.
islands bordering the Atlantic Ocean,
transparency of records and taking
care of the environment remains
paramount.
Lucky Dog Publishing, LLC
Publishers of The Folly Current, The Island
Eye News and the Island Connection.
4 February 18, 2011
I
n a 2005 interview with 60 Minutes,
African-American and Academy
Award-winning actor, Morgan
Freeman, referred to Black History month
as “ridiculous”. Obviously not a fan, he
went on to state, “I don’t want a Black
History month. Black history is American
history.”
And he’s right. Our country’s history
is made up by the contributions and
accomplishments from a great number
of people of varied backgrounds, cultures
and ethnicities. The problem, some would
argue, is that, (judging by the curriculum in
our nation’s schools and the interpretation
of our country’s past and present) one
can go through the entire American
experience without ever knowing about
these contributions and accomplishments
from such diverse and historical groups.
A great deal of triumphs, hardships, and
involvement of the African-American in
the history of our great country is often
overlooked or not even mentioned in the
annals of U.S. history.
For instance, did you know that the
first group of African-Americans brought
into this country didn’t arrive as slaves,
but rather as indentured servants? In
1619, the Dutch arrived in Jamestown,
Virginia, with twenty Africans onboard.
As soon as they completed their service as
indentured servants, these Africans were
freed from their duties and given land.
The following year, the pilgrims arrived
on the Mayflower. By the end of the 17th
century, all Africans - whether they were
brought into or born in Virginia - were
declared to be slaves.
Not too many textbooks I can remember
even mention the twenty African servants
being here before the pilgrims. As I recall,
when it came to our country’s first settlers
it was all about Plymouth Rock, the
Mayflower, pilgrims and those silly little
hats they used to wear. Never mind about
the twenty African servants who were here
one year before (or those pesky Native
Council continued from page 2
Ordinances, Title VII, Traffic, Chapter
73, Timed Parking. (Second Reading,
introduced by Mayor Goodwin). The
Ordinance was adopted unanimously.
Ordinance No. 01-11, An Ordinance
by the Folly Beach City Council
authorizing the transfer of a certain
tract of land to Little Oak Island
Community Association, Inc. and
authorizing the Mayor to execute
all documents necessary to effect
said transaction. (Second Reading
Introduced by Mayor Goodwin). The
ordinance passed unanimously.
Ordinance No. 04-11, An Ordinance
amending the Folly Beach Code
of Ordinances, Chapter 51; Water,
Op-Ed
Why Black History month?
By Joel Flores
American’s who were actually here even
before the Dutch and Africans and have a
habit of popping up all over the American
history landscape for some crazy reason).
Then came the Revolutionary War for
America’s independence from the British,
a war which our history books will tell you
Americans could afford largely because of
the profits gained from the exportation
of agricultural products such as rice and
tobacco. What these books fail to mention,
more often than not, is that it was rice and
tobacco that was grown, harvested, and
picked mostly by slaves. So, who deserves
credit? The contribution of Africans to our
independence receives hardly any credit in
our traditional history books.
That’s right, the African-American.
But speaking of contributing to America’s
victory for independence, another tiny
nugget of American nostalgia that hardly
gets noticed is how 5,000 African-
Americans who were promised their
freedom if they were to take up arms
against the British (which of course they
did), were eventually lied to. Many of
them were sent packing back to their
masters almost as soon as the last battle
was won (a promise that would again
be broken a few years later in American
history, except this time by then General
Andrew Jackson).
When George Washington - whose
famous crossing across the Delaware
River included the service of two African-
Americans - found out that African-
Americans who literally fought alongside
him were being re-enslaved at the end of
the war, he created a commission to bring
a stop to it. An admirable act on the part
of our first president, if not an unusual
one considering the fact that he remained
a slave owner even after the war.
Wow. Africans here before the English?
Slaves fighting for their freedom only to
be lied to? George Washington enlisting
and being impressed by slaves-turned-
51.059; water rates (Second Reading
Introduced by Mayor Goodwin). A
motion to approve was moved by
Council member D.J. Rich. The
motion failed, with council members
Hume, Rich, Mayor Pro-Tem Beck
and Mayor Goodwin dissenting.
Council then moved back to the
original ordinance, which failed to pass
5-2.
Administrator’s Report
Town Administrator Connor-Rooks
said she contacted the Office of Ocean
and Coastal Resource Management
(OCRM) to come back to the county
park, and that they don’t ever want to
see the beach the way it was on July 4.
www.follycurrent.com
soldiers? Who knew? Apparently not too
many people, because this isn’t something
that is normally taught in our American
schools. And that’s just covering the
beginning of our country’s history!
Still, there are a great number of
people who insist that there is no need for
this racially-based month. Never mind
what may or may not be left out of our
schools’ textbooks when it comes to the
accomplishments of African-American
people. This concept of setting aside a
month’s time to recognize one race of
people is wrong! It’s reverse discrimination,
they say. “Can you imagine what would
happen if there was suddenly a demand
for a National Caucasian-American
Month?!” they ask.
First of all, there is absolutely no need to
imagine a National Caucasian-American
Month because every day in America is
National Caucasian-American day, week,
month and year. Allow me to expand on
this very sensitive point. There is a need
for a Black History month for the very
same reason there is a need for the BET
network. Pick up your remote control, sit
back, and do a little channel surfing. What
do you see? With the exception of a really
bad Tyler Perry sitcom or a Chappelle
Show rerun, there are mostly Caucasian-
American faces across the board.
The same reason there are publications
such as Jet and Ebony magazines is the
same reason we still need a Black History
month. Stand in front of a magazine rack
one day at your grocery store or bookstore.
What do you see? That’s right. Cover after
cover with Caucasian-American faces on
them. In other words, mostly everything
in America is featured in white. Including
our history.
One last case in point: as part of my
research for this op-ed, I visited the largest
bookstore chain in America to purchase
some literature on U.S. history to see if it
was, in fact, sewn with African-American
history as Morgan Freeman claimed
it was. I located the history section of
the store and found three conjoining
bookshelves, five rows across with a sign
over each bookshelf that read: “United
States History.” Scanning all fifteen
shelves, I calculated at least 500 books
in front of me; publications that ranged
in subjects from the Revolutionary War
to the war in Afghanistan; books about
George Washington, John Adams, JFK,
Ronald Reagan and other U.S. presidents.
There was even a book called A Patriot’s
History of the United States, which had
Rush Limbaugh’s name all over it!
I set the Limbaugh book back down and
that’s when it hit me: Of the approximately
500 or so books on the history of the
United States, only three even mentioned
the African-American experience on the
cover. “This can’t be right …” I thought.
“Surely I must be missing something
here.” So, I walked over to the next aisle
where I hoped I would find another 500 or
so books on U.S. history, except this time
some of them would actually feature an
aspect of the African-American’s history
comfortably enveloped within the pages
of the history of this great country.
And I did! Sort of. You see, there were
books on African-American history, except
instead of being under a placard that
read “United States History”; they were
categorized in a section titled “African-
American Studies”. The section consisted
of one bookshelf with approximately 130
books displayed across four shelves with
a fifth shelf of the “African-American
Studies” section being filled with about
20 books on Native American Studies.
Again, I found myself pondering.
“Well, let’s see ... if African-American
History and American History are one
in the same, as Morgan Freeman (an
Oscar winner, mind you) said they were,
shouldn’t this ‘African-American Studies’
sign be removed and all of these 130 books
be integrated on the other side with the
other United States history books? And
how about that one bottom row of Native
American books? My word, if there’s
one row of books that should be sitting
amongst the other ‘United States History’
books, it’s this one! And U.S. historically
speaking, they shouldn’t be on the bottom
row, either.”
Good questions, all I surmised, so I set
out to seek the answers. First, I asked the
very first store employee I came across. She
commended me on the good questions,
but couldn’t answer one of them, so she
directed me to the one person who could;
the store manager. His name was Jeff.
“Can I help you?” Jeff inquired. “Just
a couple of questions,” I responded.
“Wouldn’t you agree that the history
of the African-American is in fact
intertwined with that of the history of
the U.S.?” Jeff, who stood about three
inches taller than me, looked down and
nodded “Yeah. Sure.” I continued, “So,
if that’s the case, why are all the books on
African-American history separate from
the U.S. history books? And why, come
to think of it, are the books on Reagan,
JFK, both Bushes and other Presidents
conveniently located under the U.S.
History section, while the books on our
present commander-in-chief, President
Obama, our country’s first African-
American president which, and I’m just
spitballin’ here, is U.S. History in its own
right, are found way over on the other side,
in another aisle, segregated from books on
all the other U.S. presidents?”
Jeff then commenced to explain that he
has no control over how or where the books
are stacked. They get specific instructions
from the corporate office on how displays
should look and what books to feature,
Op-ed continued on page 5
February 18, 2011
Change... In a House of Follies?
I
think I have decided that it’s women
who are the cause of about 80% of
their own disappointment. Thom
Yorke said it best; “You do it to yourself,
and that’s why it really hurts”. We have
all done this one to ourselves at least once,
and for most of the women that I know,
the number is much higher than that. Let
me draw you a picture of exactly what I’m
talking about:
It’s Saturday night and the smell of sin
is wafting through the air. She is single,
and waking up alone on Sunday morning
tastes bitterer with each passing week. She
has gotten all dressed up in an outfit that
is completely weather-inappropriate, but
that doesn’t matter because she feels hot
and that is exactly the confidence boost
she needs. So what is it that she is looking
for as she heads to the flashing lights, live
music, and stiff libations of Center St.?
She wants a beautiful bad boy.
These boys have been capturing the
hearts and minds of women both on
screen and in real life, probably for as
long as there have been men and women.
Every John Hughes film of the 80s had
one, the hottest men in Hollywood have
gotten famous playing them, and even the
Op-ed continued from page 4
he explained. “So, I should contact
your corporate office then?” I asked.
Exasperated and looking quite anxious to
continue with his task of stocking books,
Jeff shrugged. “Yeah. Yeah, give them a
call or shoot ‘em an email. They can tell
you. I just do what I’m told.”
And who amongst us doesn’t, I thought.
I thanked Jeff and returned to the “United
States History” section. I stood there, arms
crossed, brow on the bridge of my nose,
hamster running on the wheel in my head
like he stole something. And that’s when I
came to the conclusion that I didn’t have
to call or email anyone (even though I did
email the corporate office of this very large
Dating Follies
heroines of Jane Austen novels have been
tormented by their feelings for them. And
back here in reality, every female I have
ever known has almost choked on the little
slice of heaven known as the bad boy.
So what is it about them? There’s the
obvious: the smoky eyes, the casual way
they lean into dark corners without an
ounce of concern for anything they see,
the mystery, and of course that ever-so-soft
whisper of “villain” hidden behind their
messy hair and perfectly fitted t-shirts. It’s
all of those things, and then there is that
one other thing; the kicker, if you will.
The always lingering thought that we are
going to be “that girl”, the one who can
soften them, change their ways. The one
girl who can teach them the true meaning
of love, the girl who makes them want to
settle down into a life of passionate, sexy
bliss.
The problem with this is that it has
absolutely no base in reality. It simply
doesn’t happen. The danger and excitement
associated with these “bad boys” is a thrill,
not a solution to your loneliness. It’s true,
they will entertain you for a night, a week,
maybe even longer, but you must draw the
line there. Think of them like the best toy
scale bookstore and have yet to receive an
answer to either one of my questions.). I
found the answer I was searching for right
here in this corporate-run, well-vacuumed
bookstore.
We do, indeed, need to continue to have
a Black History month. Why? We need it
until our nation can truly acknowledge
and show a true, in-depth interest in the
many, over-whelming sacrifices African-
Americans have given for our country by
accepting their stories, their heroes, and
their historical achievements as stories,
heroes, and historical achievements for us
ALL; until we can walk into our libraries
and bookstores and come to find no
more hyphenated American sections, but
only a “UNITED STATES HISTORY”
www.follycurrent.com
by Fay A.
you can imagine, the one
you wanted so badly when
you were little that it kept
you up at night thinking
about it. However, these
beautiful boys are elusive
toys; ones that you can
play with but never really
own. You can have
copious amounts of fun
with them as long as you
don’t allow yourself to
become attached.
And there’s the problem. Women
always find themselves getting attached.
We want to tame them, bathe them, teach
them manners, and then show them off to
our friends, but that’s the wrong answer!
So ladies, when you go out trolling for
a man to fill that spot in your lonely soul,
be honest with yourself. If you decide to
take home one of the confirmed Folly
Beach bachelors, remember that fact going
in and accept responsibility for your own
actions. I know many of these men. They
are insanely hot, extremely intelligent,
and some of the coolest guys that you will
ever meet. Enjoy getting to know them,
be friends either with or without benefits,
section with books and publications that
cover every aspect and story of every and
all races, cultures, and histories that have
contributed to the making of the United
States of America; until we cross-educate
each other and develop a relentless quest
to saturate ourselves about the culture
and background of the many ethnicities
and nationalities that make up the very
fabric of our country, so that we can better
understand each other.
Until then, we will always find ourselves
far short of Mr. Morgan’s assessment that
black history is, in fact, American history.
So, yes, as of right now there is still very
much a need for Black History month.
Because until the name Crispus Attucks
can be commonly recognized as the first
5
but don’t be angry when they move on.
Remember that it’s all of their little flaws
that make them so special, original, and
completely intriguing to us. If you were
to polish away their jagged edges you
may very well destroy what inherently
makes them so beautiful in the first
place. Whatever you do, don’t think for a
moment about changing them; and don’t
you dare be angry at them for being what
they are.
Fay A. writes with observant wisdom
from behind the bar at one of Folly Beach’s
famed establishments. If you have a comment
or question for her, send it on to comments@
luckydognews.com or submit a comment at
www.follycurrent.com under “submissions”.
man to die for our country, it shouldn’t
matter that he was black. Until Crispus
Attucks is as commonly recognized as
George Washington, it shouldn’t matter
that his mother was Native American.
But as of right now, it does matter. Black
History month will and should matter
until we as a united people have finally
accepted the histories of all our people
that make up the fabric of our great
country. And until we do, Mr. Morgan
Freeman will be right about one thing; it
is ridiculous - ridiculous that we are not
there yet.
Have an opinion on Flores’ op-ed? Reach
him through comments@luckydognews.
com.
6 February 18, 2011
Salt Marsh Diaries

Pirate weather on the marsh

By Anton DuMars

A
fter several gray and rainy days, transitioning to a mono-species, Spartina anomalously high, level. Only in three faces. Emily took the next oyster, moving
the sun finally ventured out and alternifora marsh that stretched to the instances in the last 200,000 years has sea it around in her mouth before she decided
on Super Bowl Sunday morning. horizon. level reached this far landward. Besides that spitting it over the side worked best
Breakfast over, we mounted our bicycles Just beyond the causeway’s influence, our present beach, paleo-shorelines once for her. I dubbed her the bravest seven-
for a ride to the Pig. Rain puddles patched the salt marsh becomes a wilderness. existed in North Charleston, Mount year old ever to come aboard. We moved
the road. Dogs with people attached Nature governs what happens there. Pleasant and James Island. According to on. After several marsh bird identifications
walked on cross streets to and from the Plants and animals compete for limited fossil and paleo-environmental evidence, and dolphin sightings in the narrow tidal
beach. Empty liquor bottles covering a resources in a transitional environment. salt marshes also existed behind these creeks, we reached Morris Island. I set the
side-yard table hinted at past fun and Twice-daily tides nourish and flush ancient barriers. anchor in the soft sand and we marched
headaches to come. Turning right at the marsh. Rainwater alters salinity. As a tour boat guide, my salt-marsh together across the vast sand bar toward
Planet Follywood, breakfast smells filled Nature adapts. According to wetlands commentary provides an outline for the lighthouse. A few hundred yards across
the air. Churchgoer’s cars lined Center scientist Ralph Tiner, South Carolina my guests, but the real story changes the bar from the landing point, glassy
Street, and Lost Dog patrons parked up hosts approximately 400,000 acres of constantly and is told only by the marsh waves crested and broke on the beach.
most of West Huron Street. coastal marshes, almost twice as much as itself. Saturday, before Super Sunday, Saucer-sized eyes accompanied the first
Emerging from the maritime forest Georgia or North Carolina. These “back the rain finally stopped just after 2 p.m. finding of a whole sand dollar. Ben and
trees by the Folly River Park, the sky barrier” salt marshes form in the relatively My four guests elected to seize the break Emily developed keen eyes and several
opened up and the air became silent. A quiet, low energy environment behind in the weather and “go for it”. A thick more findings followed. Heading back to
light west breeze met us on the bridge, coastal barrier islands. Many of these fog shrouded the oyster banks. I untied the boat, Ben pulled up along side.
barely rippling the water below. Across islands - including Folly, Kiawah, Morris, from the dock and headed out. One by “You can have this shell. I already have
the bridge, adjacent to the causeway, a Sullivan’s, and others - formed relatively one, moored boats appeared from the one,” he said, handing me an oversized
narrow zone of fresh water flora soon gave recently, approximately 4,000-6,000 ghostly haze. “Just like pirate weather” cockle.
way to more salt-tolerant plants, finally years ago as the sea level rose to its present, I tell my guests, five-year-old Ben and Smiling, we all loaded onto the boat
seven-year-old Emily. Their eyes scanned and bundled up for the chilly ride back to
the scenery, letting the salt marsh and
Only on Folly
the marina.
their own imagination fill in the blanks.
Later, we eased up to an oyster bank and Captain Anton DuMars, a coastal
Police Blotter turned the motor off. Laughing gulls and geologist and 30-year Folly Beach resident,
oystercatchers, sharing space, casually owns and operates Tideline Tours, LLC. To
By Blake Bunch watched us. I reached over the bow and contact Anton, please call or text 813-2497
grabbed a cluster of three medium size or visit http://tidelinetours.com.
She Got a What? Boob Job…. oysters. Prying them open with my knife,
On January 19, a Folly Beach Public Safety officer responded to the victim of credit I fed one first one to Grandma, the second
card fraud. The victim was notified by World Financial Network National bank that a to Mom. Amusing expressions crossed their
charge of $2,779.20 was drawn from his account. This charge was for an elective Lasic
breast implant procedure at Maximized Living in Celebration, Florida. The victim
was told the name of the person who used his credit card, and received a letter from
Medchoice Financial requesting information in reference to the possibility of fraud.

Urban Surfing
Responding officers were dispatched to a call regarding a vehicle on the beach. When
they arrived, the suspect’s 1997 Honda was stuck on the beach after the driver tried to
turn around and got caught in a tidal pool. The suspect then called Jennings Towing,
Sudoku
but the water was too high and the vehicle could not be retrieved. On February
3, officers met with divers from the Charleston County Sherriff’s office and Elite
Towing to remove the vehicle. The divers entered the water using a tracking device,
and hooked up their cables underwater, using the tow truck to ultimately remove the
vehicle.

Honesty May Be the Best Policy (to avoid getting locked up)
While on patrol, an officer noticed a car illegally parked in the E. 2nd St. beach access.
While writing a ticket, the officer noticed a “glass pipe commonly used to smoke
marijuana” in the back passenger seat. The officer then walked out to the beach to
find the vehicle’s owner and several subjects drinking Sparks Malt Liquor, as well as
Fat Tire. The subjects were cited for Open Container, and were then brought back to
the patrol car. When the officer asked if anyone had any marijuana, a subject handed
him a plastic sandwich bag containing “two green plant buds weighing less than 2.5
grams.” The pipe was smashed, and the marijuana placed into evidence. All subjects
were cited and released.

Pharmaceutical Fraud
On January 23, an officer responded to a disturbance on Sandbar Lane. The victim
said she had stayed with some friends, and awoke to find her prescription of Adderol
stolen from her purse (valued at $20). No one at the residence knew anything about
the prescription.

Let Me Stand Next to Your Fire

On January 23, an officer was dispatched to the Piggly Wiggly on Folly Rd. in
response to a Larceny call. A concerned citizen alerted the store’s manager of a man
who was loading firewood into his SUV. Upon asking his employees if they had sold
any firewood, he discovered that none had been purchased. The manager then
went outside, and saw a “short, heavy-set male” loading a bundle of firewood,
then get into his vehicle and drive off. The manager was able to retrieve the
South Carolina registration tag, which came back as stolen. The vehicle was last
seen driving down Sol Legare Rd.
Level: Very Easy Solution on page 11
February 18, 2011 7
Travel

Washington, DC: more than our nation’s capital

By Alan L. Kleinfeld

I
f it’s not on your bucket list, then you here are some not-to-miss basics for first- see, such as the Cherry
should add Washington, D.C. to your timers to D.C.: Blossoms, the World War
top places to visit before going to the METRO – That’s right, check out the II Memorial, the Vietnam
Great Beyond. It’s not only our Nation’s subway system. It’s clean, it’s affordable Veteran Memorial and the
Capital; it’s a fantastic metropolitan city. and, by and large, it’s efficient. It beats wonderful neighborhoods
You already know about some of its sitting in the country’s second worse rush surrounding downtown
more famous “residents” such as the hour in a rental car or cab, and it takes like Adams Morgan,
Washington Monument, the Lincoln you just about anywhere you need to Cleveland Park and U
Memorial and the Smithsonian Museums, be, including Old Town Alexandria in Street Corridor.
but did you know that you can visit all of Virginia or upscale Bethesda, Maryland. Dupont Circle – Once
those sites for absolutely nothing? That’s Be mindful of locals and try to ride during known as the gay Mecca
right, many of the most famous museums off-peak hours. And remember the rules of DC, it’s become
in DC are free and open to the public. of the Metro escalators: stand to the right, much more than that
As with most places that have lots to walk to the left. with funky shops, tasty
dining and some of the
see, it’s hard to cram it all into one travel Metro also makes it easy to walk in
best people-watching in
article. So, in addition to the major tourist this pedestrian-friendly town to just about
DC. It’s a diverse mix
stops such as memorials and museums, everything and anything you’d want to
of people, places and
things.

Celebrating the Folly Spirit: The U.S. Capitol – You

may want to contact
your congressman in

A Benefit for Nancy Kervin advance of going, but

even if you don’t, make
an unscheduled stop

D
isaster struck Nancy Kervin and her 17-year-old daughter, Sedona, when to your representative’s
their home at 506 West Ashley burned to the ground a week before office to set up a tour of
Christmas – a spectacular night blaze which woke up many west side the Capitol Building.
residents. When disaster strikes, however, the Folly community comes together. Most of the time, they’re
Residents of Folly Beach will help the Kervins this Sunday, February 20, with a happy to do it. You’ll get
to ride the underground
gala benefit at the Tides Hotel, starting at 3 p.m. For $25, attendees will get prime
tram and then tour
oysters from Crosby’s, sizzling barbecue from the Folly Beach Crab Shack, beer
the awesome architecture and history
from Pearlstine’s, and music from some great local bands. All of the proceeds will
that makes our country the heart of
go to the Kervins. Democracy.
There will also be a silent auction with some unusual prizes: a parasail trip, a Memorials and Monuments – It’s
gym membership, a wedding or commitment ceremony, a last will and testament, said that the Washington Monument is
an eye exam, a private yoga session, and more. And there will be drawings for a the only true monument in all of D.C.
door prize which will be a massage by Nancy Kervin. and that everything else is a memorial.
The Kervins need every bit of it. “We lost everything – furniture, clothes, Whether that’s true or not, plan to visit
Christmas presents, even our bird,” said Kervin, a well-known massage therapist the Lincoln Memorial. Standing on
who is trying to keep her business together as she moves from place to place, those famous steps leading to the giant
rebuilding their lives. sculpture can’t help but fill you with
pride. While there, glance across the
The Kervins have lived on Folly for 15 years, and hope to stay here. “I love Folly,
National Mall and glimpse unforgettable
and wouldn’t want to raise my daughter anywhere else,” Kervin said.
views of the Washington Monument
“Folly is a close-knit community that reaches out to those in need,” said Ron and the Capitol Dome. Within short
Hill, owner-operator of the Folly Beach Crab Shack and the man who worked with distances of the Lincoln, find the
other businesses to contribute to the benefit. Vietnam Memorial and the Korean War
“Come on out at 3 p.m. on February 20 to celebrate the Folly spirit with your Memorial (best seen at night).
neighbors,” he said. “Let Nancy and her daughter know that the Folly community Newseum – This for-profit museum,
cares, and enjoy a wonderful afternoon.” although not free, is worth the cost
of admission. It’s all about our first
amendment rights of free speech and
freedom of the press. Not only does it
have touristy things like pretend anchor
desks, but it has newspapers from around
the globe, huge blocks from the Berlin
wall and an emotionally-engaging part of
the roof antennae from the World Trade
Towers, stuck down on 9/11.
Another thing that makes DC a
terrific place to visit is its proximity to
other great destinations. Philadelphia,
Baltimore, and New York City are easily
accessible by train, bus or car, with New
York being the furthest at less than four
hours away.
Whether it’s the Cherry Blossom
Festival, Christmas time or Congress,
D.C. is a good place to be a tourist year
round. Remember to take a good pair of
walking shoes and your American spirit.
For more info, visit www.washington.org.
 Folly Current Calendar
Friday, February 18
Southeastern Wildlife Expo
February 18 – 20. For more info, visit www.
sewe.com.
Freshfields Art & Wine Walk
From 4-7 p.m. at Freshfields Village.
Participating stores will offer samples of
more than 40 wines, exhibits and live art
demonstrations from local and regional artists
and live jazz music from The Cobblestone
Duo. Free event. For more info, visit www.
FreshfieldsVillage.com.
Moonlight wall climb
Enjoy an evening under the moon at James
Island County Park’s Climbing Wall! Try
your favorite route from a different perspective.
Equipment not included in climbing fee; bring
your headlamp/flashlight. Registration is not
necessary. Fee: $12. Ages 16+. 5 – 9 p.m. Call
795-4386 or visit www.ccprc.org for more
info.
Movie Night at the Folly Library
Starting at 5 p.m., drop by the library for
Movie Night at the Beach featuring Why
Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears and more
stories from Africa (all ages). Munch on some
popcorn and enjoy a story on film with your
friends! 55 Center St. For more info, call 588-
2001.
Saturday, February 19
Jane Austen Society
Today’s program, led by Gail Trummell, will
focus on the connections of Aunt Philadelphia
to India and Eliza to France. All are welcome.
We meet at the Berkeley Electric Bldg., 3351
Maybank Hwy., Johns Island at 1:30 p.m. For
more info, call 768-6453.
1st Annual Folly Boat Cleanup
& Oyster Roast
Volunteers are needed! Please join our cleanup
efforts and after party for the first annual
“Bring your Boots” Folly Boat Cleanup
& Oyster Roast. Events begin at noon on
February 18 - March 3
February 19.  Please email estafford9@gmail.
com for additional info and/or contribution
needs.
Passport to Geocaching
Join a Geocaching Scavenger Hunt throughout
James Island County Park! Team registration
is strongly encouraged. Max of 8 per group.
One member of the group must be the main
contact and at least 18 years of age. Call
795-4386 to register. 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Course #
24051. Age: 8 & up. Fee: $10.
Sunday, February 20
Oyster Roast Benefit for Nancy Kervin
Come together with your fellow Follyites to
support Folly resident Nancy Kervin, who lost
everything she and her daughter owned in a
fire this past December. Oysters, live music,
beer and barbeque will be offered at The Tides
starting at 3 p.m. Come celebrate the Folly
spirit!
Monday, February 21
President’s Day
Wednesday, February 23
Folly Library Story Time
Fun family story time with a focus on African
American literature and history will begin at
10:30 a.m. at the Folly Beach library, located at
55 Center Street. For more info, call 588-2001.
College Day at the Climbing Wall
Come check out the climbing wall every
Wednesday and enjoy a special student
discount with a valid college ID. No Pre-
registration required. 12 p.m.- 5 p.m. at James
Island County Park. Fee: $10. Call 795-4386
or visit www.ccprc.org for more info.
Thursday, February 24
Habitat Build It With Bushels
Join Rita’s Seaside on Folly Beach starting at
6 p.m. for oysters, bbq, sweet giveaways and
prize auctions (outdoor adventures, local gift
cards, and more), and live music from Jupiter’s
Garden. Happy Hour will last all night with
$2 domestics and $3 house liquors. Tickets
are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Call
768.0998) or visit www.seaislandhabitat.org
and click “Donate”. Be sure to note “Build It
With Bushels” under the designated fund field
and bring your receipt as your ticket to the
event.
Performance: Out Of Sterno  Tuesday, March 1
At the Charleston Acting Theater. Dotty
lives an imaginary perfect life until she leaves
her house for the first time in seven years
and begins a path toward independence.
Performances:  February 24, 25, 26, March
3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12 – all shows at 8 p.m.
nightly. TICKETS:  Adults: $17  Seniors: $15  naturalists use to “read” the natural world. 6
Students: $10. Call 795-2223 or visit www.
midtownproductions.org. 915 Folly Road.
Friday, February 25
Movie Night at the Folly Library
Starting at 5 p.m., drop by the library for
Movie Night at the Beach featuring Harold
and the purple crayon and more Harold stories
(all ages). Munch on some popcorn and enjoy
a story on film with your friends! 55 Center St.
For more info, call 588-2001.
Saturday, February 26
Folly Gras!
Trophies for Best Float, Costume and Food!
1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Parade begins at 2 p.m. with
lineup for floats, golf carts, marching, skating
and biking at West Arctic. Autos allowed only
if fully decorated. Must be in Mardi Gras garb
to participate. Five street bands, masks and
beads sold at City Hall. New Orleans food and
drink. For more info, call Mary 513-1836 or
708-1113.
Sunday, February 27
Dogmore Stew Festival
at Magnolia Plantation
Tickets include admission to the plantation
and it's gardens, hors d' oeuvres, Frogmore
Stew, desserts, a silent auction, raffle prizes,
pet fashion show, pet vendors, dog training
demos, grooming demos and more. Call 343-
8063 for more info. Tickets available at All Is
Well, 1150A Hungryneck Blvd Mt Pleasant or
1409D Folly Rd James Island, or at Magnolia
on the day of the event. 1 to 5 p.m. Tickets:
$17/adults, $5 - $10/children. Leashed pets
allowed.
Become a Master Naturalist
Master Naturalist (MN) candidates complete
a 13 day field study course led by a variety of
experts in some of the state’s most beautiful
natural areas as they learn and practice skills
p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Class meets weekly at Caw
Caw Interpretive Center on Tuesdays from 8
a.m. – 5 p.m. through May 24. Pre-registration
required. Course #24609. Fee: $625. 795-4386
or visit www.ccprc.com.
Wednesday, March 2
Folly Library Dr. Seuss Story Time
Fun family story time with a focus on Dr.
Seuss will begin at 10:30 a.m. at the Folly
Beach library, located at 55 Center Street. For
more info, call 588-2001.
College Day at the Climbing Wall
Come check out the climbing wall every
Wednesday and enjoy a special student
discount with a valid college ID. No Pre-
registration required. 12 p.m.- 5 p.m. at James
Island County Park. Fee: $10. Call 795-4386
or visit www.ccprc.org for more info.
Thursday, March 3
Folly Beach Library: Read Across America!
Starting at 4:30 p.m., help us celebrate Dr.
Seuss’ birthday.  We will have a special guest
and cupcakes! The Folly Beach library is
located at 55 Center Street. For more info, call
588-2001.
10 February 18, 2011
Juicy's heard on Folly

Quotes from a Quotable Island

By Juicy Sparks

I
f you’re a Folly Beach local or have spent a lot of time Ginger of the Week:
on the island, you’ve heard some interesting things. If Celebrating an Endangered Breed Q: If you could be anyone on Folly Beach for one week,
you enjoy the nightlife on Folly, you’ve certainly heard who would it be?
some things that have made you laugh uncontrollably, gin·ger - noun A: Walking Joel, because he knows so many people
confused you terribly or made you cringe. I’ve overheard 1. a person with red hair, pale skin and freckles and probably has some crazy stories to tell.
a lot of things on this island, and I’d like to share some -a Ginger’s natural hair color can range from a rich
of them with you. Don’t worry; anonymity is auburn, pale reddish brown, (strawberry blonde), firey Q: What song has been in your head all day?
respected in this column. I invite you to red or bright orange A: “The Ropeadope” by L’il Rope.
share some of the things you’ve heard on
Caroline Vendrick is the Ginger of the Week Q: What color underwear do you have on?
Folly as well, and again, we’ll respect your
A: Blue - navy blue, to be exact.
anonymity. If you would like to contact
Q: Who is your favorite Ginger and why?
Juicy or tell her something you’ve heard, A: Julia Roberts, because she is a bomb- Q: What do you expect to be doing in 20 years?
email her at: juicyhearddat@gmail.com, diggity actress. I love her movies. She’s an A: Hmmm… I think in 20 years I will own a dance
or you can join the group “Heard on asset to the Redhead community. studio.
Folly” on Facebook.
Q: Magazines such as the US Vogue and the UK Q: What is in your purse right now?
Tatler have heralded this as, “the Age of the Ginger.” Do A: A pair of socks, a koozie and hand sanitizer.
September 26, 2010: January 7, 2011: “That’s you think that this is true?
“Did I leave my shoes, what this phone call is A: Heck yeah! They say that Redheads are endangered, Q: What is your catchphrase?
keys, skateboard, phone, about - GUILT!” but I think that all of the attention has just made us A: “Woo-hoo, I just wanna’ party.”
wallet and stash here last stronger and more proud.
night?” January 16, 2011: Q: What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
Person 1: “Do I look Q: It is said that Gingers are descendants of Vikings. A: My dad told me, “You can’t ride two horses with
October 3, 2010: “I spent smarter now that I’m a What would your Viking name be? one ass at the same time.”
most of my money on beer brunette?” A: Caroline the Red Hot.
and hookers, the rest I just Person 2: “No, you can Q: Can I borrow $20?
wasted.” still see your face!” Q: Who do you think would win in a fight: Superman or A: Yeah, if I had it on me. It is the slow season …
Spiderman?
October 5, 2010: “Ideally, January 23, 2011: “I don’t A: Spiderman all the way, because he jumps like a Q: What is your favorite quote?
you would be on all fours.” have any pants on and Ninja and his super-hero garb has more red than A: “Live and rearrange the stars.”
you’re not helping me!” Superman’s.

The Marsh
T h e f i f t h b o o k i n N o e l’ s F o l ly B e a c h
Mystery series hits the streets
special to the Folly Current

“They’re back …” “Folly Beach is a magical and

mysterious place,” said Noel. “I’ve tried

J
ust when you thought it was safe
to venture out on the charming,
bohemian, one-of-a-kind Folly
Beach, fiction author Bill Noel
uncovers another mystery to make you
think twice about who you can trust!
South Carolina’s Folly Beach is
again prominently featured in the new
novel, The Marsh, the fifth installment
in the Folly Beach Mystery series. Folly,
the debut novel in the series, was
released in 2007; The Pier published in
2008; Washout in 2009; and The Edge
was released early last year. Author Bill
Noel weaves the charm and character
of the small barrier island and nearby
Charleston throughout the pages of his
new mystery novel.
Those of you who have read one or
more of the first four books will already
be familiar with Chris Landrum and
his merry band of misfits who stumble,
bumble, and somehow manage to catch
killers who appear almost as often on
Folly Beach as sunburned tourists.
Charles, Amber, Dude, Bob, Heather,
and Country Cal will be returning to
help Chris solve the mystery. And to
fulfill the fantasy of many residents,
the murder victim is a lawyer!
to capture the charm, character, and
characters of the island in the Folly
Beach Mystery series.”
The Folly Beach Mystery series has
been described as the “perfect beach
read.” The novels are light, humorous,
and feature a group of characters who
are nearly as quirky as the setting.
Noel lives in Louisville, Kentucky,
but feels at home on Folly. “I’m not
privileged to live on Folly Beach,
but have been positively welcomed
by everyone I’ve had contact with
there the last five years. Residents
have offered me valuable insights,
information, and more than a few
potential plots. If I ‘bumped off’ all
the people whom Folly residents have
suggested, the population would be
drastically reduced!”
The Folly Beach Mystery Series is
available in Bert’s Market, Piggly
Wiggly, Michelle’s Salon and Spa, and in
the Sugar Shack at the Tides Folly Beach
when the store reopens in mid-March.
The books are also available for order
through your local bookseller or on the
Internet at www.billnoel.com, amazon.
com and barnesandnoble.com.

www.follycurrent.com
 February 18, 2011 11
Creative
The Green Heron
Untitled By Lindsey Graham

A
Time waits for no one and your game is old. small, chunky wading bird, the Green Heron (Butorides virescens) can be found
I tire of the mask, across much of North America where it forages in swamps, streams, marshes,
its facade weakens me. ponds, pastures, lake edges and along creeks. It’s one of the few tool-using birds
Reality is a mirror reflected in our illusions, and commonly drops bait such as insects, worms, twigs and feathers onto the surface of
your turn or mine? the water and then perches, motionless, while it waits for the fish to surface and inspect
When will your walls come down, the bait. When the fish gets close enough, the Green Heron strikes out with its long
Speak to me not from behind your painted face neck and grabs its prey. The top of their wings and the crown feathers are an iridescent
but tell me of golden rays that loosen your living chains offalsity. green, while the side of the neck is a chestnut brown. This particular Green Heron is
Step away from the double life, soak in newness. A freedom like children on their foraging in shallow water near the road. 
first swing. I desire to know the real you.
Time waits for no one and your game is old.

 Brent Ashley is an artist living on West Cooper Avenue. He is a graduate of the

Savannah College of Art and Design, the son of a prominent architect, and has traveled
the US as a professional photographer for the Racing and Gaming Commission. He
is currently writing a book and pursuing a painting profession.  You can reach him Photo by Lindsey Graham

through comments@luckydognews.com

Sudoku -solution
Folly Beac h Tide Char t
Date High Tide Low Tide
Feb 18 7:54am/8:20pm 1:18am/1:49pm
Feb 19 8:42am/9:11pm 2:10am/2:35pm
Feb 20 9:30am/10:02pm 3:01am/3:22pm
Feb 21 10:18am/10:55pm 3:54am/4:10pm
Feb 22 11:09am/11:51pm 4:48am/5:00pm
Feb 23 12:03pm 5:45am/5:54pm
Feb 24 12:51am/1:01pm 6:45am/6:53pm
Feb 25 1:55am/2:04pm 7:48am/7:58pm
Feb 26 3:00am/3:09pm 8:52am/9:03pm
Feb 27 4:04am/4:12pm 9:53am/10:06pm
Feb 28 5:02am/5:09pm 10:48am/11:02pm
Mar 1 5:52am/6:00pm 11:36am/11:52pm
Mar 2 6:37am/6:45pm 12:20pm
Mar 3 7:18am/7:26pm 12:37am/1:00pm

Storms, hurricanes, etc., are NOT included in the predictions.

Tidal current direction changes and tide time predictions can
be very different. Tide predictions are PREDICTIONS; they
can be wrong so use common sense.
Source: www.saltwatertides.com Solution from page 6
www.follycurrent.com
12
Surfing: the Sport of Presidents
Maybe I’m not in the President’s Day
spirit like I should be, but connecting this
holiday and surfing is not coming easy. It
is most reasonable people’s opinion - and
some might even say the truth - that our
nation’s presidents do not surf. Where
there is no story, there is often room to
make one up. Here it goes:
Our great land has had forty-four
presidents since George Washington
first took the oath of office in 1789. The
responsibilities of Washington’s new
position cut the Father of our Country’s
time in the water drastically, but he was
known to ride a wooden alaia surfboard
when the surf was good on Virginia’s
Eastern Peninsula. The next Waverider-
in-Chief was also a Virginian and a do-it-
yourselfer. The author of the Declaration
of Independence, Thomas Jefferson, made
his own wine, college, beer, and surfboards.
President Jefferson was a surfboard shaper
of some renown throughout our great
land. In fact, he shaped Andrew Jackson’s
first board – a stubby fish that was perfect
for South Carolina’s summer surf. And
you can bet the farm that no one snaked
Old Hickory’s wave. He once killed a man
in a duel over an insult to his wife. This
president would likely take any dispute
to the beach where he would dispense
surf
By Jud Bushkar, McKevlin’s Surf Shop guru
a suitable beat down to the offender.
When President Jackson left office after
two terms, however, the post would be
occupied by non-surfers for the next sixty-
four years.
In 1901, the assassination of President
William McKinley elevated a young
man known for his military service, big
game hunting, cow-punching, martial
arts prowess and big wave riding. Teddy
Roosevelt paddled into bigger surf than
any president before or since. As a native
New Yorker, he grew up surfing Rockaway
Beach and making day trips to Montauk
when hurricanes got close. He would have
towed into big Hawaiian surf, but Jet Skis
were not yet invented. In 1909, President
Roosevelt left office and was replaced by
our largest surfing president, William
Howard Taft. This man was well over three
hundred pounds and needed a large board
to stay afloat. An early noserider model
that was eleven feet long and twenty-eight
inches wide was Taft’s ride of choice.
Before President Richard Nixon’s Open
Door Policy brought Chinese products to
America, all surfboards were handmade
by Americans. Although the Watergate
scandal and secret bombing in Cambodia
were unpopular, Nixon’s greatest crime
was bringing cheaply made, pop out
www.follycurrent.com
February 18, 2011
surfboards to our fair land. When he wanted to be elected. This brings us to the
was spotted riding one while on vacation present day. President Barack Obama is
in California, the opposing Democratic an avid bodysurfer. That is to say, he was
party had seen enough and threatened to seen on YouTube riding waves without a
impeach him. The president resigned and board. The man was born in Hawaii, so it
our nation was once again the greatest is only fitting that he actually surfs.
nation in the world both in and out of the It is probably best to end this article on
water. one factual note. Thanks for reading and
Along the way, two non-surfers of note I’ll see you in the water.
come to mind. They both failed to be
elected as president. Former vice president Jud Bushkar of McKevlin’s Surf Shop can
Al Gore was last seen with a gnarly be seen arm-wrestling deceased presidents
beard that made us all think he might over wave rights during most of the peak
have tuned out and moved to Indonesia. surf days on Folly Beach. To contact him,
Another Democratic hopeful, John Kerry, email comments@luckydognews.com or
was branded an elitist by his opposition. submit a comment at www.follycurrent.com
They said he was a windsurfing enthusiast under “submissions.” Contact stratton@
who vacationed in Europe. Maybe both of luckydognews.com if you’ve got a surf-
these guys should have been surfers if they inspired column to contribute.
Congrats, C of C students!
Congratulations to College of Charleston students and Folly Beach residents
James McManus and Madeline Thieringer, who received Distinguished Honors
for the 2010 Fall semester. Distinguished Honors are awarded to students
enrolled in at least 14 credit hours who have maintained a grade point ratio
between 3.60 and 3.79.
February 18, 2011 13
Music

Gaslight Street’s “Idle Speed”

F o l ly f i x t u r e ta p s i n t o l o c a l ta l e n t
By Blake Bunch

F
olly Beach maintains quite a diverse portfolio of
musicians, singers/songwriters, artists, and authors.
Every band or creative spirit interprets life on the
island differently, but typically their underlying themes
express something similar: a comfortably quaint place
by the sea. And since residents on the island are often
quite neighborly, one may utilize the creative input of
others. This ultimately enhances the final output of the
project, which is definitely the case on Gaslight Street’s
sophomore album, “Idle Speed,” where band members
recruited several of their musically talented friends to
join them in their new venture.
Not only did Gaslight use local talent, they also
recorded their new album right down the road at Ocean
Industries Studios. Jeff Leonard served as the main
engineer, with Charlie Freeman and Campbell Brown
producing. With their guidance, Gaslight Street has put
together an extremely impressive album.
“We began writing most of the tracks late in 2009, and
started recording last summer mid-July,” says lead singer/
songwriter Campbell Brown. “We basically finished
around December of 2010, but it took a couple of weeks
to master afterwards.”
Following the release of their debut album, “Blue Skies
for Fools,” Gaslight Street has quickly become a fixture
amongst the burgeoning scene of musicians who either
live or are based on Folly Beach. The band typically
consists of four band members: Campbell Brown, Jason
Stokes (vocals, guitar, keys), drummer Brooks DuBose,
and bassist Frank Nelson. However, on “Idle Speed,”
Gaslight brought on a horn section, organists, violin, and
Gaslight Street.
various other instruments which give this album a very
full sound. It is not fitting to place this album under any
particular genre as the boys flex between funk, folk, soul,
Dixieland, and rock, all with very precise jams woven
throughout.
When asked about the band’s lyrical content, Brown
says that he does the writing in this outfit. “Most of my
lyrics are very personal; I guess selfishly, in a sense,” says
Brown. “They tend to deal with life changing events, but
are not stereotypically limited to autobiography. I like
to present my songs so that they are open to numerous
interpretations.”
On the track “Vicksburg” on their new album, Brown
strays away from the familiar. “I wrote that song to
sound like an old Civil War journey,” says Brown, and it
most certainly does, blending violin with an escalating,
powerful chorus. The title track, “Idle Speed,” may be the
song closest related to island living. Since Campbell likes
to leave things open to interpretation, there are several
double-entendres pulsating throughout this tune.
Heading up the horn section for this recording
endeavor were Kevin Hackler on trumpet, Steve
Spaulding on trombone, and Eric Gaffney of Weigh
Station on saxophone.
“Kevin and I played in a country/rock band called Live
Oak,” says Campbell. “When Gaslight Street opened for
George Porter at the Pour House, I called Kevin and we
had them come sit in. He basically laid out all the horn
arrangements on the album.” Musicians also lending
depth to this album were Jesse Pritchard on violin, and
Cary Anne Hearst demonstrating her amazing vocal
range.
Suffice it to say, Gaslight Street definitely has a lot to
look forward to over the next few years. Reid Stone and
Campbell Brown played a show on the Pour House deck
for Blues Fest, and their album release party for “Idle
Speed” is set for February 25 at the Pour House. Shortly
thereafter, Brown says that they will take two weeks off
before touring around the Southeast. On this tour they
will hit the Florida coastline, Mississippi, Tennessee,
and Asheville among others before coming back to
Charleston.
For more info on Gaslight Street, check out their tunes
and tour dates on their website: www.gaslightstreet.com.

Drop In Deli
Mondays – the Hawkes Folly music
Wednesdays – Trivia & Dave Grunstra
2/19 – Yellow Knife
scene
2/18 Rawberry Jam
Chill & Grill
2/19 The Healing
2/18 – Tim Hodson Band
2/25 Tidal Jive
2/19 – Sho Nuff
2/26 – Nathan Calhoun
2/25 – Louis D project
2/26 – Elise & the Freeloaders
Planet Follywood
3/4 - Sho Nuff
2/18 – Dan Clamp
3/5 – Selah Dub
2/19 – Calhouns Calling
2/24 – Karaoke
Folly Beach Brewing Company
2/25 – Kevin Church
2/18 – Josh Brewer
2/26 – Shakin Martinis
2/25 – Eric Penrod
2/27 – Theresa Parrish
3/3 – Hank Marley
Folly Beach Crab Shack
3/4 - Jef Wilson
Mondays – Open Mic w/ Dave Grunstra
3/5 – Jon Brackett
Tuesdays – Trivia
Thursdays – Folly Beach Bluegrass
Sand Dollar
Society
2/18 & 19 – The Cool
Fridays – Nathan Calhoun
Saturdays – Sara Smile
Surf Bar
Wednesdays – Guilt Ridden Troubadour
Loggerheads
2/18 – Eric Penrod
Tuesdays – Open Mic w/ Eric Penrod
2/25 – The Hawkes
Wednesdays – Karaoke w/ Margie
Thursdays – The Hawkes

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.

www.follycurrent.com
14 February 18, 2011

Name: John Bell

Breed: English Bulldog

Likes: Eating cat poo out of

the litter box, engaging in
meaningless sex, hustling people for
food, smoking, petty theft, and last
but not least, drinking.

Dislikes: When my owner calls me fat.

Why I am a lucky dog:I am a lucky dog because I am 56 years old

in dog years and my mother still continues to pay my rent.

PHOTO BY Mary Ohl

Do you recognize this image? It was taken somewhere on Folly Beach. If you
know what it is, let us know at wtf@luckydognews.com and you could win a free
medium, one-topping pizza from Woody’s! James Glass guessed last issue's "What
the Folly?" It was the was the pictures on the wall of Lost Dog Cafe.

The Lucky Dog Club is sponsored by

Lost Dog Cafe
Brought to you by Woody’s Pizza and
Mary Ohl.

If you have a Lucky Dog please send their information and picture to:

richard@luckydognews.com

www.follycurrent.com
February 18, 2011
Homeowners save on insurance through state law
I
n 2007, a law was passed by the South
Carolina legislature that was created
to help South Carolina homeowners
protect their homes from wind and
hurricane damage. Three years later, many
South Carolina homeowners still are not
aware of the possible savings they could
receive with a simple, specialized home
inspection. Sizable rebates and discounts
are being given to thousands of families in
the area, largely in part to a Lowcountry-
based home inspection company, Coastal
Safe Home Inspectors. This local wind
ADVERTORIAL
provided by Coastal Safe Home Inspectors
mitigation inspection company is armed
with a team of state-certified inspectors
helping homeowners benefit from the
Omnibus Coastal Property Insurance
Reform Act of 2007. The act requires that
insurance companies provide discounts to
homeowners whose homes are protected
against damage during a hurricane or
windstorm. The use of storm shutters, roof
tie-downs, better roof coverings, impact-
resistant windows and doors, and other
actions taken to reduce losses are some
examples of qualified improvements.
Wind mitigation discounts may apply
to existing older homes, as well as newer
constructions, and are justified because
stronger, more wind-resistant houses have
lower windstorm losses. Lower windstorm
losses result in reduced costs to insurance
companies that are then passed on to the
consumer. Inspectors typically charge
$150 per inspection. By law, they are
not allowed to charge any more. Many
inspectors also offer discounts to the
elderly and military personnel.
 “Our goal is to educate and guide our
clients through the process of protecting
their property,” explains Coastal Safe Home
www.follycurrent.com
Inspectors owner, Jeff Conklin. “There
are so many Lowcountry homeowners
who simply aren’t aware of the insurance
discounts that are available. Everything
we do is geared toward keeping families
safe and helping them so that they receive
the discounts they deserve.”
Inspections are performed and
reviewed by state-licensed inspectors,
who work closely with the homeowner’s
insurance agent. Inspectors look for
features that minimize wind damage
during a hurricane or strong wind storm.
Some of the features that qualify for
wind mitigation certification include the
type of roof, the presence of roof straps
and secondary water resistance barriers.
Inspectors then work with the insurance
agent to ensure that the homeowner
obtains the appropriate discounts.
“When I first heard about this program,
I thought it must be too good to be true,”
says homeowner Jamie Holcombe. “But
after going through the inspection, we
ended up qualifying for a discount on
our homeowners insurance and received
an $800 refund check. Since we had our
inspection, two of our neighbors have gone
15
through the inspection process, as well.”
In addition to the windstorm insurance
mitigation inspections, Coastal Safe
Home Inspectors also provides assistance
in obtaining grant funds for South
Carolinians to fortify their homes against
the damaging effects of hurricanes and
severe wind storms. The SC Safe Home
Grant Program, operated within the
South Carolina Department of Insurance,
the same department that oversees the
wind mitigation program, provides grant
dollars to individual homeowners to make
their properties more resistant to hurricane
and wind damage. This program has
helped more than 1,000 homeowners with
grants totaling more than $4,568,000.
State-certified inspectors, like those with
Coastal Safe Home Inspectors, can help
homeowners work through the grant
process and ensure that their homes
are retrofitted or fortified properly with
money provided by the state.
To learn more about Coastal Safe Home
Inspectors or to schedule and inspection, visit
www.coastalsafehomeinspectors.com or call
606-0578.
16 February 18, 2011

You just can’t "beet" fresh, local produce

Rosebank Farms C SA n o w s e r v i n g M o u n t P l e a s a n t A n d N o r t h C h a r l e s t o n
Provided by Rosebank Farms

R
osebank Farms
is alive and well.
Entering its third CSA pickup locations:
year, the Rosebank Farms
Community Supported
Agriculture (CSA) West A shley
program continues Rick Rhodes Photography
to offer quality local 1842 Belgrade Ave.
produce and will have
more pick-up points
this year throughout Downtown
the greater Charleston Redux Contemporary Arts Studio
region, including cooler box to keep items fresh. 136 St. Phillip St.
downtown Charleston, West Ashley, James Island, The market stand on Johns Island is currently
Mount Pleasant, North Charleston and Johns closed. “Not having a market to tend means we James Island
Island. can devote even more time to farming,” Limehouse Pettigru Properties and Mario Inglese Law Firm
Rosebank Farms CSA offers three seasons of fruits explained. “We are now in a position to give our
451 Folly Rd.
and vegetables, growing for taste as well as variety. outlying customers something they have been
“It is a very personal endeavor. What we eat; you requesting since our program began two years ago
– a convenient place closer to home where they can NEW pick-up locations:
eat,” says manager Sidi Limehouse.
pick up their bags.” Mount Pleasant
Not only do members receive fresh produce on
a weekly basis throughout the 12-week season, they CSA members who picked their bags up at the Pet Vet, off Coleman Blvd. at Shem Creek
also receive a weekly newsletter and recipes on how farm’s market stand will now be able to pick up their 307 Mill St.
to prepare the vegetables and fruits in their shares. bag two miles away on the farm itself at 3951 Betsy
In addition to the weekly pick-up option, the Kerrison Parkway where Limehouse farms 50 acres North Charleston
farm also offers a box delivery program to downtown of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers.
Limehouse Produce
peninsula residents. Members in the box delivery To sign up for your CSA, visit www.rosebankfarms. 4791 Trade St., #G
program receive fresh, seasonal, and local fruits and com. For further info, email csa@rosebankfarms.com.
vegetables delivered each week to their door in a

www.follycurrent.com