SPORTS

Say hello to the new Townebank Arena Sports theCloser

New Townebank Arena on the campus of Virginia Wesleyan University Layne Nooner|Marlin Chronicle

BY CODY SCHNEIDER cjschneider@vwu.edu Staff Writer

The Jane P. Batten Center and Convocation Hall opened in 2002, and served as the venue for VWU commencement ceremonies from 2002-2018. The Convocation Hall has also hosted entertainers, tournaments and even presidential and political candidates. The Convocation Hall is now known as Townebank Arena, located in the Jane P. Batten Student Center on the campus of VWU. Townebank is a major supporter and no stranger to Virginia Wesleyan athletics. After Townebank funded a $500,000 upgrade to the university’s softball field in 2019, this past summer they donated $1 million in order to update the VWU basketball/ volleyball court. Men’s basketball head coach David Macedo said, “We are just very fortunate to have TowneBank really step up and be so generous. Our Administration did a great job with building this relationship and the overall design.” Marlins women’s head basketball coach Liz Hudy said her “entire coaching staff and team is excited and thankful to play in the new TowneBank Arena. It is a premier facility for our teams to compete. The additional seating will provide a great experience for fans and spectators as well.” The new Townebank Arena includes a 360-degree grandstand seating design including “endzone” seating that allows growing attendances to roughly 2,000 spectators. Growing the attendance capacity will allow for VWU to host larger events on campus in the arena. This will also allow for a greater atmosphere for VWU fans, student athletes, faculty and the students. Macedo said, “It’s amazing and truly is special. The guys love it! We have been sending them pictures now for a few months and keeping them updated on the progress. The floor design is clean and neat while the colors look great. Just really can’t wait to dive into practice.” Some other new updates to the arena include a refinished court with a new design with the Townebank logo and the VWU Marlin, new sideline chairs and updated scoreboards. This really pulls the whole arena together to make the arena look top-notch. Macedo added, “I just really believe it gives us an even better home court advantage,” which can be huge for both the men and women basketball programs.

The new arena will also enhance the playing experience of the recent ODAC champion Virginia Wesleyan volleyball team. Sophomore volleyball player Haley Sutton said, “The new gym is amazing! We actually have volleyball lines on the main court which is super nice. Last year, we had to tape the lines down when we wanted to play, so it’s nice to have our own lines on the court. Unfortunately, with COVID, we can’t play, but it would have been super cool to have fans all around us and not just on the sides.” During this world wide pandemic and dealing with COVID-19, Virginia Wesleyan is trying to do their part as well. Following CDC guidelines and maintaining six foot distances, VWU is breaking in the new arena utilizing Townebank Arena as a classroom right now. Hudy said “Due to COVID-19, the TowneBank Arena is being utilized as a classroom during the day. The bleacher seating allows students to spread out. Portable technology is in place for professors.”

“We are excited to upgrade our facility not only for our athletic teams and special events, but for the comfort of our devoted Marlin fans,” Dr. Scott D. Miller, university president, wrote in a university news release back in April of 2020. “We are so grateful to TowneBank and thank them for their continued investment in intercollegiate athletics at Virginia Wesleyan.”

Nelson joins VWU athletic staff

NICHOLAS MUNDY namundy@vwu.edu Sports Editor

There was outrage, disappointment and disgust from what has transpired over the past couple of months in this country with social injustice coming to the forefront once again. With all that being said, this wasn’t a surprise. This has been happening for centuries as African Americans have been treated unfairly in the criminal justice system. On May 25, George Floyd had his neck pressed down on pavement for 8 minutes and 46 seconds by police officer Derek Chauvin. Sparks of anger flooded the country. The protests were no longer peaceful. Riots and looting took over the streets. In the middle of a national pandemic due to COVID-19, the United States was coming apart at the seams.

The sports world came to a screeching halt on March 12 due to the virus. No sports for over three months was dreadful. It felt like every day was missing something to look forward to. Fast forward to Aug. 26, the Milwaukee Bucks and the Orlando Magic opted not to play due to the police shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Basketball games around the league in the midst of the playoffs were boycotting. The players were planning to boycott the entire playoffs unless some actual change was coming from the owners.

They looked to people who had power to actually do something to help those that don’t. It is what former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick has been protesting for years. The NBA Players Association met with the owners and agreed upon a “return to play” with the agreement that owners were going to make a stride for social equality.

MLB games and NFL practices would go on to be postponed as well. One night later, the Miami Marlins were scheduled to play a game in New York against the Mets. The national anthem played and the players and coaches stood for a 42 second moment of silence before exiting the field after placing a Black Lives Matter t-shirt on home plate. How many times are sports stars going to need to shed a light on an social injustice issue for there to be real change? NBA players have a history of being more outspoken than any other athletes. They are able to use their platform to raise awareness for issues in society. While the players are in the bubble down in Florida, they are allowed to wear certain names or phrases on the back of their jerseys.

The deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Jacob Blake and many more have shed light on a very sensitive topic that needs to be addressed. Cries from people around the United States have pleaded for the arrest of the police officers that killed Breonna Taylor while she was sleeping.

These issues have caused so much pain for everyone during an already trying time for this country. Comedian Chris Rock hit the nail on the head when he said, “Here’s the thing. I know being a cop is hard... I know it is, okay? But some jobs can’t have bad apples.” Not all cops are bad, but it only takes a few to fit the mold of those who should not have the power that they hold.

The frustration lies with how long this conversation has been going on. Colin Kaepernick peacefully protested over four years ago. He tried to raise awareness for the same issues that this country was forced to recognize over the summer. These issues are going to be work in progress regardless of what happens over the next couple of months. Social injustice isn’t a quick fix. It is important to take a step in the right direction.

BY AJ ADAN ajadan@vwu.edu Staff Writer

Coach Dennis Nelson took on the role of head coach for both women’s and men’s golf at Virginia Wesleyan in July 2020. Nelson coached the Hampton University men’s and women’s golf teams for four years prior to joining VWU. Under Nelson’s coaching, the Hampton Pirates saw improvements year after year in both the classroom and on the course. In their 2016-17 season, the women’s team won the Delaware State Tournament and the men finished in the top three in the Savannah State and Maryland Eastern Shore fall tournaments. The following season, the Pirates men’s team had three top-three finishes while the women posted four top

Sports Information| Courtesy

threes.

Nelson is known for his experience and knowledge in both playing and coaching making Virginia Wesleyan golfers optimistic for the upcoming seasons. “He knows a lot about the game, he’s a good golfer, an easy guy to follow and he actually plays with us, so we learn and trust him more,” said senior golfer Chandler Scott. “He’s just an awesome dude, he’s definitely gonna put the golf team back in contention in the ODAC for sure,” Scott said. “I just love being around young golf players and being able to pass on what I know, not only with golf with life in general,” Nelson said. “Everything is so different now and I know we will be well prepared in all aspects of the game. We’re practicing all the small stuff, making it second nature so we will be ready come spring,” Nelson said. The women’s golf team at Virginia Wesleyan has only been in place for six years, since then Nelson has now been able to come in and be a leader for them. “I believe he’s going to be an amazing asset to the program as a whole. As a junior, I wish that I could have had Coach Nelson come in earlier in my career, but I’m grateful and eager to see how the program progresses,” golfer Ashlee Bobzin said.

Nelson was pleased with his transition to VWU,

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THEWEEKENDER Quarantine bite

which wich Benny Dematos

By valery caraballo| vecaraballo@vwu.edu Weekender Co-Editor

In the mood for actual sandwich options? Which Wich gives your choice of a Philly cheese steak to vegan/ vegetarian options. The choice is yours from the second you grab your sharpie marker by the menu to right at the register when you hand your order to the cashier. Many customers call this one of the fastest yet appetizing sandwich restaurants they have been to so far. Aside from the welcoming service and extremely appetizing meals , the customer appreciation reaches a whole other level with a wall covered in drawings some customers doodle on the paper bag they are supplied with when they make their order. “When I first got to the restaurant i was a little overwhelmed by the menu but it quickly changed when the manager came By Tiffany Warren tawarren@vwu.edu Staff Writer

What’s your go-to sandwich place? Jersey Mike’s? Firehouse Subs? Jimmy John’s? It’s great to make your sandwich the way you desire, but how about stepping out of the commercial deli restaurants and trying more locally in Hampton Roads. Going beyond your favorite build-your-own deli, Clayton’s Counter Delicatessen is a local familyowned sandwich shop close to VWU that serves gourmet sandwiches in a relaxing, welcoming setting. The newly opened restaurant had its grand opening on Aug. 31 near the commissary on Oceana Blvd.

The room was filled with calm islandstyle music and aromas of smoked meats on the grill. Seating arrangements were spread out and spacious to dine inside for COVID-19 health and safety purposes. After placing your order at the register, customers could watch the cooks preparing and making the food from their seats.

The owner-operator and head chef of Clayton’s Counter Delicatessen, Ralph C. Anderson III, focuses on buying ingredients and supporting products from local food owners. “We buy local stuff. And we use it in all of our recipes by and assisted me,” Allison Churchman said. The environment is both friendly and welcoming with no judgment towards a confused first timer. “Which has allowed me to finally go to a sandwich restaurant and not get shot down by the lack of vegan options’’ Danielle D’arcy said. This restaurant has gained the interest of many vegan and vegetarian customers, “I am a very new vegan and the opportunity to try all the different options for me especially have made me want to be a loyal customer.

This new sandwich place is right by the outlets which gives you just enough to stop by and grab whichever sandwich catches your eye. too. It’s just supporting locals so that we give that love back, I believe in using local products and being as creative as possible with them,” said Anderson.”The menu at Clayton’s Counter Delicatessen also provides 100% plan-based options such as the Quinoa-black bean burger, Hummus platter, and various salads. “I want to cater to everybody. That’s why you see a lot of the plant-based items on the menu,” Anderson said.

Despite the hurdles of COVID-19 on small local restaurants and businesses, he made his lifelong dream to open his own restaurant a reality. “ It’s rewarding when we serve it to the customer and see a smile on their face like ‘wow’ I never had anything like this,” Anderson said. The owner hopes to start catering once delivery and curbside pick-up is more smooth and simple. Clayton’s Counter Delicatessen is gradually getting its name out by word-of-mouth and social media on Facebook and Instagram to expand.

Take a chance to try a new style of gourmet sandwiches instead of the usual build your own or your famous homestyle grilled cheese sub.

By Tiffany Warren tawarren@vwu.edu Staff Writer

Benny Damato’s is a local familyfriendly Italian restaurant that serves the iconic 28” New York-style pizza pies located on Granby Street by the Slover Library in Norfolk.Though the restaurant is social distancing ,there is enough space for four people to sit in and eat as well as some space to sit out.Though not very big, the restaurant is very homey and aesthetically pleasing, They even decorated their bathroom with comic book wallpaper. The challenge at Benny Damato’s is to eat an entire 28” cheese pizza in 28 minutes and the winner receives a $280 prize. If you aren’t up for the Benny Damato’s challenge, then enjoy a slice of your favorite choice of topping or their monthly specials. Options By Faith macwana fpmacwana@vwu.edu Weekender Co-Editor

Located in the ViBe Creative District, Lolly’s Creamery is a Virginia Beach classic that everyone must try at least once. It’s the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. The Tiffany blue building with a black and white striped awning gives off major retro vibes. Lolly’s Ice Cream written in curly script adds to the storefront appeal. According to their website, “at Lolly’s we are about 3 things: Joy, Community and Generosity. We want every bite and every interaction to leave you with a smile on your face. Hopefully so much so, that you would want to pass it along and share the joy of Lolly’s with others in our community.”

They have multiple classic flavors that include Cookie Monster, Strawberry, Three Ships Coffee, Mint Chocolate Chip, Double Dark Chocolate, and Real Deal Vanilla. In addition to these favorites, Lolly’s also offers Flavors of the Month. For the month of September this includes to dine-in, and order online for pick-up or delivery are available through Benny Damato’s website.“I hope the customers can come to expect a kind and helpful staff experience, as well as a relaxing atmosphere while dining in or waiting for their orders. We are constantly working on our environment and customer service to make it as enjoyable as our pizza,” said Poquel Davis, Benny Damato’s manager. Many fellow Marlins who were recently introduced to this restaurant had nothing but positive remarks. If you have not had a slice of pizza bigger than your face, you

Clayton’s Counter

lolly’s creamery

definitely have to ! Go Geek Buckeye!, Pineapple Upside Down Cake, Just Trust Me, M&M&M, Corn Cake and Jam, and Funky Monkey. More information can be found on their website, https://www.lollys.online.

One of their most popular flavors, Cookie Monster, is a local favorite. This cool treat combines cookies n cream ice cream with chocolate chip cookie dough. Did we mention the ice cream is a bright blue? Not only do they offer scoops of ice cream, but you can order milkshakes and malts as well. You can also customize your order with options of adding a waffle cone, Lolly’s sauce, hot fudge, caramel, whipped cream, Bing cherries and/or sprinkles. The possibilities are endless.

So, stop by and stay a while. Outdoor seating is available with multiple tables and picnic tables laid out in front of the store. You won’t regret it!

FLAMAZING FLAMINGOS

By Faith macwana fpmacwana@vwu.edu Weekender co-editor

Flamazing Flamingos. Try saying that ten times fast. From June 19 through October, Norfolk Botanical Gardens is proudly displaying seventy gorgeous topiary flamingos throughout the grounds. According to their website, NBG offered the opportunity to name and “adopt” pink flamingo topiaries the week before Valentine’s Day. They sold out within six days! As part of their Education Department, NBG will develop educational interpretive signage for Garden visitors to learn about the art of topiaries and the care that is required to maintain their beauty. In addition, topiary classes will be offered during this time period so visitors can learn how to grow and maintain their own beautiful display.

In an article written on their website, “a topiary is defined as the art or practice of clipping shrubs or trees into ornamental shapes. The flamingo topiary frames are built from welded tubular steel and will have six different poses and dimensions.” As for the decorative aspect of it, “each frame will be filled with pink begonias and all sculpted faces will be repainted for optimal display. Faith Macwana fpmacwana@vwu.edu Weekender co-editor

Each frame will contain around 80 plants and will be planted upon arrival at the Garden.” Finally, the article mentioned the intensive upkeep that is involved in making sure these creations last. It includes “hand watering daily, fertilizing once a week, trimming every 3 – 4 weeks and checking the moss on each topiary on a weekly basis.”

When you first drive up the Gardens, a welcoming sign greets you at the front gate. Tickets are purchased online and scanned directly from your car to limit in person contact. Making your way through the winding pathway, you are greeted with a canopy of trees overhead and a lake glistening in the distance. It’s the perfect end of summer beginning of fall day. The parking lot is filled with families with eager young children, couples in love, groups of friends, and the elderly leisurely walking towards the main building.

You feel yourself getting excited as you see the signs advertising that the flamingoes are here. You grab a map of the garden and walk through the welcome building in a breeze. The first thing you spot are the bicentennial rose gardens and the winding canals that link all sixteen display gardens together. People are socially distant and wearing masks, families are riding their bikes and there’s a sense of serenity and peace in the air. There’s so much to see and so many paths to pick. You decide to pick one randomly and let your feet guide you. The path you follow takes you through the delicate rose gardens and down a gravel path that runs parallel to a canal. If you look closely in the water, you can see turtles swimming about and sunbathing. Flamingos can be spotted along the way and you smile to yourself.

A little further down and you approach the NATO tower. Normally open as an observation and wildlife watching deck, it’s the lawn that is in front of it that captures your attention. The lawn, lined with pink flowering trees, has over twenty flamingo topiaries all positioned differently. You noticed that they each have names such as “Cleo,” who was adopted by a Dawn Matheson. There’s barely anyone else there so you seize the opportunity to take a few photos and live in the moment.

After wrapping up at the tower, you continue your stroll through the gardens. You’re glad that you decided to wear comfortable shoes as you walk deeper into a more secluded area with little ponds. Breaking free from the forest, you end up on a path leading you to a vegetable garden. There are little pepper plants and vines crisscrossing and cascading down from archways. A giant zucchini dangles from one. After spending some time there, you leave the vegetable garden and continue on your way. You realize that your walk is slowly coming to an end.

Before you reach the parking lot, however, a field of yellow, pink and orange wildflowers blooms in your line of vision. You pause for a moment to drink in the sights and sounds of this scene. The sun is setting as you head to the parking lot and start the journey home. It was a good day, a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Susans

By valery caraballo vecaraballo@vwu.edu Weekender co-editor

art

Pop your head into the open entrance that directs your attention to a bunch of beautiful, one of a kind art.Though you may think the mall is only for shopping, there’s a bunch of unspoken events around. The gallery where this particular artist held her show is where many local artists and schools demonstrate their artwork. Susan Tolbert has been showing her art Monday - Saturday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays.Susan’s art is made from a number of collage techniques to formulate abstract paintings. Viewing the art is free and open to the public. Many events have been held at this gallery in Macarthur Mall,where a lot of artists have open galleries for their art work. The audience called her art “amusing yet relatable.” Many people have see her previous art yet it has been said that her most recent work in the gallery , is a lot more challenging. Each piece had a different combination of magazine collections that she underlies then uses the scrap paper to make oil. The process in which Susan goes through both

at macarthur

throughout her art and the supplies gives off an enviormentally-friendly, artistic edge. Surprisingly, her art comes from the buckets of magazines she has rummaged through in the past 20 years. “I would like to think that the art itself gives you a colleague like urban energy, ” Erin Highsmith said. Susan will be presenting her art until Oct.1.

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Wesleyan Top Ten Faith Macwana and Valery Caraballo Fpmacwana@vwu.edu Vecaraballo@vwu.edu

Do you have a song that makes you feel good or that you love to jam out to? The Weekender is taking song suggestions to curate a Wesleyan Top Ten Spotify playlist. Email your song suggestions to either fpmacwana@vwu.edu or vecaraballo@vwu.edu.