South Carolina’s Beach Santa Amazingly Picks Up Millionth Piece Of Litter

After six years of dedicated work helping to clean up the environment, Howard Hogue, known as South Carolina's "Beach Santa" for his big white beard, recently celebrated a significant milestone. He was spotted collecting his one-millionth piece of trash. The noteworthy achievement occurred on the Isle of Palms beach, east of Charleston, South Carolina.

In recognition of his commitment, Hogue was awarded a plaque and given a small party. Over the years, he’s taken part in more than 2-thousand litter sweeps. Despite living more than an hour north of Charleston in Moncks Corner, Hogue works throughout the area, driven by a desire to improve the environment for the next generation.

“Why put the effort in? It gives me something to do in retirement," Hogue told ABC NEWS 4. "It makes me feel like I’m useful. I’m important. I’m sending a message that if I can do it, and influence other people to do it, and to have them stop littering, it’s better for the environment for the future generations.” I love that attitude!

His story shows that it’s possible for one person to make an impact on the environment. Hogue’s dedication isn’t just about keeping beaches free of litter, but also serves as an inspiration for others to take responsibility. He hopes that his work will help to preserve natural habitats and ensure a healthier planet for the future.

For a lot of us, it doesn’t get better than spending our summer vacation at the beach. Unfortunately, South Carolina has 2 of the most expensive beach towns in the nation. While there are a lot of coastal cities to choose from, these destinations can be pretty pricey. But it really all depends on where you go. A new report reveals where the most affordable towns with an ocean view are.

So which South Carolina towns are among the most expensive in the country? Let's have a look! Here are the top 10 most expensive beach towns in the country.

Solana Beach, California is north of San Diego. It's a super safe town, and the beach is long with great water temperatures. The average rental home costs $4,372 a week.

Key West is not only a great beach town, it has plenty of history and attractions. Boat racing takes over the town in the summer. Plus, you can get into the Earnest Hemmingway look-a-like contest that happens each year! Average cost of a week rental? $4,547

Sure Laguna Beach on MTV was a great show. Sure, your rental home may sink into the water. But it is a cool beach town. It will cost you on average $4,564 to get a home for the week. Not bad. Hope insurance is included! 

This Maui town is the home of a big golf tournament. The weather is beautiful year round. The beaches are sheer white. If you want to rent a home it will run you $4,946 for the week. 

What a great local town for us in the Carolina's to visit. Great golfing, shops, restaurants and of course the beaches. The down side? It will cost you $5,576 to rent a spot there for the week.

I know this beach town well. I spent many summers in Folly Beach. Love the whole vibe of the island. What I really didn't know is that my wife is spending nearly $5,943 for us to vacation there. We split the house with friends but holy hell! 

Another Cali beach town is on the list. Like Laguna Beach, if you can weather the fires, the land slides and the celebrity bs then Malibu is there for you! Average home cost for a weekly rental? $6,150

Wanna go to Diddy's "White Party?" Wanna see celeb's all over the place? Then head to East Hampton, located on Long Island. Bring your wallet though, a weekly rental is $6,178. 

Another over the top Long Island beach town. Even more celebrities show up and hang. There's a PGA golf event held yearly. Rent a home for the week in Southhampton for an average of $6,391! 

Party it up with John Legend. Hang on the beach, or spend thousands at dinner! This town, the most expensive beach town in the nation has an average cost of $6,454 a week!