Eric Rowland keeps the facial hair heavy but the mood light at Bert’s
“Well, that’ll be two dollars and 84 pennies, thank you and you have a wonderful day, now!” It’s really hard to stay grumpy on a Monday morning on your way in to work when Eric Rowland is working the register at Bert’s Market. Something about the combination of his ever-present smile, impressive beard, and I’m-just-happy-to-be-here attitude somehow puts it all into perspective. I recently sat down with Eric and his wife Lisa to get a glimpse into their world.
FOLLY CURRENT: Where are you from originally, and how did you find your way to Folly?
ERIC ROWAND: I’m from Statesville, NC, but I was captured by Lisa, who’s from Winston. We met Omar (co-owner of Bert’s Market) many years ago at the annual camp-out I host, and he invited me down nearly six years ago to work at Bert’s. I like Folly because it’s the most “homey” beach I’ve been to. You can come here and be accepted the way you are.
FC: Any truth to the rumor that you may run for mayor?
ER: No, I said “from mayor.” If the people of the beach really wanted me as mayor, I would run… back to North Carolina. In all seriousness, I think the highest calling is to serve another, so if the majority of the people wanted me in that job, I would serve them.
FC: What are your top three tips for safe sailing? ER: Stay away from stationary objects. Practice, practice, practice. And when the wind is over 20 miles per hour, keep reminding yourself, “this is fun!”
FC: If not Lincoln, who would you put on the penny? ER: Ron Paul
FC: What is one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
ER: I’ve got seven siblings and 42 nieces and nephews.
Miranda Jordan is alocal teacher, musician, and freelance writer. To reach her, email mirandaalicejordan@gmail.com.
