Booze Banned on Folly... Party Foul or Fair Call?

So it’s happened—the tough decision’s been made. And by “tough decision” I mean last night’s totally unanimous vote to ban alcohol on Folly Beach’s (sometimes) rowdy shore. To clarify, the unanimous choice came from the Folly Beach City Council. Had the decision included input from some of last week’s jort-wearing, PBR-drinking crowd of thousands packed near 10th Street, I'm thinking the vote would've turned out a bit different.  

Regardless, Folly has now followed suit with Sullivan's and IOP by banning alcohol of any kind—even a cold brew after a long week of work—from the sandy shore. Say goodbye to the packed coolers, the bucket-size beach beer pong sets, and the police officers passing out trashbags. For now, at least. The difference between this ban and the others? It's temporary—currently in effect for just 60 days. 

In case you’ve been living in a social media-free bubble over the past week, we'll give you the background. Talks of the ban started after a series of pretty major party fouls occurred last week on the Fourth of July. These included: an unauthorized, full-scale beach party (complete with a DJ and speakers loud enough for Trio); an alcohol-induced fight-turned-riot that led to eight arrests (and the use of a taser); and, last but not least, the injury of four police officers and a deputy on duty. Though beach drinkers have been flocking to Folly for our nation's b-day for years, according to many, the scene last week was the worst to date—or best, depending what side of the party you’re on. 

What will happen after the 60-day ban is up is yet to be reported, as is the diligence of the Folly Beach police in enforcing the law. What is clear, however, is that reactions to the decision vary—big time. As always, Facebook has a wealth of colorful (and popular) opinions. Here are some comments left on the Folly Beach Facebook page, in response to a status update about the ban (all comments have been quoted directly, word-for-uncapitalized-word):

stupid

following this "logic," Folly Beach should also ban sharks, rainy days & small waves

Can finally take my 7 month old daughter to the beach without (a) having to drive an extra 30 minutes and (b) without a bunch of drunk idiots around

Ban the dumb people, not the alcohol

Those sixty days are cutting into my drinking time

Seriously people? This is the most you have to live for, getting trashed on the beach?

What about allowing alcohol from 5 AM til 10 AM if you are leashed?

So what do you think? Is the ban on booze too drastic? Is this a case of a few bad apples spoiling things for the whole beer-enjoying bunch? Or is the decision a long-delayed, warmly welcomed step toward making Folly a better, safer public space? Let us know by voting below.

VOTE: Are you in favor of the alcohol ban on Folly Beach?

Photo Credit: The Post and Courier