Suffolk Living - November/December

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november/december 2012 • vol. 3, no. 6

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nov.-dec. | 2012 contents

EDITORIAL R.E. Spears III Editor Tracy Agnew News Editor Matthew A. Ward Staff Writer Beth Beck Land Staff Writer

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by Suffolk Publications, LLC. P.O. Box 1220, Suffolk, VA 23439 www.suffolklivingmag.com (757) 539-3437

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Candlelight Tour

Four homes are open during the historical society's annual holiday event.

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The Masons

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Join us as we pull back a corner of the veil on the secretive Masons.

GET TO KNOW | John Woleben thinks about toys year-around as the local Toys for Tots organizer. november/december 2012 t WPM OP

WHERE AM I? | Guess the location correctly and you could win a $25 gift certificate.

Photograph by Troy Cooper

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what to do 11/30 — Bethlehem Ruritan Jam Location: Bethlehem Ruritan Community Center, 140 Manning Road The Bethlehem Ruritan Jam will be held from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Bethlehem Ruritan Community Center, 140 Manning Road. The Hard Knox Bluegrass Band will perform. There is no admission charge, but a tip jar will be available for donations. Soft drinks, hot dogs, barbecue sandwiches and snacks will be available from the concession stand.

Sugar Plum Tea at the suffolk center for cultural arts

12/1-12/2 — Suffolk-Nansemond Historical Society Candlelight Tour Location: Historic Downtown Suffolk The historical society’s annual candlelight tour opens Suffolk’s most historic and interesting homes and businesses to the public. This year’s theme is Holiday Homes and Festive Tablescapes. Tours will be from 2 to 6 p.m. on Dec. 1 and Dec. 2. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for well-behaved children under 12.

Tickets are available at the Suffolk Seaboard Station Museum, 326 N. Main St., the Visitor Center, 524 N. Main St., or by calling 539-2781.

12/1-12/2 — Ballet Virginia’s The Nutcracker and Sugar Plum Tea Location: Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, 110 W. Finney Ave. The region’s premier dance academy will create holiday magic in “The Nutcracker,” chronicling Clara’s journey through the Land of Sweets. The show starts at 3 p.m. Cost is $25 for adults and $15 for kids. The Sugar Plum Tea, held before each performance at 1:30 p.m., invites children to meet the dancers and wander through the Enchanted Forest before entering the Sugar Plum Castle and making a keepsake. Cost is $15. For more information, call 923-2900.

12/4 — “Handel’s Messiah” Location: Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, 110 W. Finney Ave. Chowan University Masterworks Chorus and Orchestra will perform “Handel’s Messiah” at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 4 at the Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts.

The cost is $15. For more information, call 923-2900 or visit www.suffolkcenter.org.

Send us your news To submit your calendar or news item, simply email it to: news@suffolklivingmag.com

"HANDEL'S MESSIAH"

BALLET VIRGINIA'S 'THE NUTCRACKER'

8 suffolk living

what to do 12/8 — Suffolk Holiday Parade Location: Downtown Suffolk The annual downtown tradition continues this year with colorful floats, marching bands, dancers, equestrian and civic groups, and more to entertain the entire family at 7 p.m. This year's theme is "Holidays in Toyland." The parade is free and open to the public. For more information, call 514-4130.

SUFFOLK HOLIDAY PARADE

12/9 & 12/15 — Meet Santa Location: Suffolk Visitor Center Pavilion, 524 N. Main St. Bring the kids to meet jolly ol’ St. Nick from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Suffolk Visitor Center. Bring your camera to capture the magical moment. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, call 514-4130.

12/8 — “Disney’s A Christmas Carol” Location: Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, 110 W. Finney Ave. The Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts will present “Disney’s A Christmas Carol” at 2 p.m. For just $1 or one nonperishable food item per person at the door, you can enjoy the animated retelling of Charles Dickens’ classic novel about a Victorian-era miser taken on a journey of self-redemption, courtesy of several mysterious Christmas apparitions. For more information, call 923-2900 or visit www.suffolkcenter. org.

12/15 — “Uncle Wiggily’s Christmas Carol” Location: Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, 110 W. Finney Ave. The Children’s Theatre of Hampton Roads “Uncle Wiggily’s Christmas Carol” at 11 a.m. Join Uncle Wiggily and his forest friends in this adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic tale. The cost is $5. For more information, call 923-2900 or visit www.suffolkcenter. org.

12/16 — Pet Photos with Santa Location: Suffolk Visitor Center Pavilion, 524 N. Main St. Don’t let Fido miss out on the holiday fun. Bring your pet to get a picture with Santa Claus from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Suffolk Visitor Center. Bring your camera to capture the magical moment. For more information, call 514-4130.

MEET SANTA

suffolk living

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suffolk scene Boys and Girls Club Oyster Roast

The Boys and Girls Clubs Suffolk Unit held a Barbecue and Oyster Roast on Sept. 29 to raise money for its programs.

Despite threatening weather, hundreds of people attended and had a great time. Clockwise from right, Jerry Wilson, left, and Chris Cook shuck oysters; James Blair, Ron Pier, Bill Thompson and Don Williams catch up during the event; Pam Burke and Virginia Griggs chat while waiting in line; Teresa and Lee Trump supported the Boys and Girls Clubs; Carl and Denise Farris enjoy their plates.

PHOTOS BY TRACY AGNEW

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suffolk living

Free Clinic Dinner

Individuals instrumental to the organization’s success gathered at the Planter’s Club on Sept. 20 for Western Tidewater Free Clinic’s fifth anniversary. Clockwise from right are Norman Blumenson of Florida, Dan Mussatti of Suffolk, LeOtis Williams of Suffolk, and Sybil Bullock of Chesapeake enjoying refreshments; Brian Martin with Michelle Butler from TowneBank and John Harrell from Suffolk Iron Works; Suffolk’s Whitney and Cole Irvine attending the event with 9-month-old Reagan; Max and Mary Lindner of Smithfield taking in twilight on the deck with Suffolk’s Buddy Joyner; Smithfield’s Dr. Anne Morgan enjoying the occasion with her husband, Edward House.

PHOTOS BY MATTHEW A. WARD

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suffolk scene

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suffolk scene TGIF

At Bennett’s Creek Park on the last day of August, a large crowd turned out for the summer’s final installment of TGIF, a concert series put on by the city of Suffolk. Clockwise from right, all of Suffolk, are Pauline Baker, Hilda Schneps, George Marshall and Kenny Baker; Jimmy and Julie Greene of Chesapeake and Kristen and Ken Strickland of Portsmouth; Murphy Burgess, 5, Skylar Kittrell, 6, Zoe Kittrell, 6, Myla Burgess, 9, and Chloe Jeffries, 8, all of Bennett’s Creek; Cathy and Mike Miltier of Bennett’s Creek; Cathy Connolly of Chesapeake and Beth Henson of Virginia Beach.

PHOTOS BY MATTHEW A. WARD

14 suffolk living

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suffolk scene

Driver Days

Driver Days, the village in North Suffolk’s annual two-day street festival, drew a large crowd of visitors on Oct. 20-21. Clockwise from below, Hamp Anderson of Virginia Beach and James Baldwin of Suffolk pair up for a game of cornhole; out from Portsmouth were Brianna, 9, Mandy, and Peyton, 4, Brinkley; Jeff Brinkley of North Carolina and Amber Pruitt of Portsmouth say they are regular visitors to Driver for Wednesday evening cornhole; from Isle of Wight County, Donna Harris takes granddaughter Carly Harris, 18 months, on a train ride; Driver’s Cindy and Steve Carpenter are grandparents of 13-month-old C.J. Carpenter.

PHOTOS BY MATTHEW A. WARD

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suffolk scene

Peanut FEST PARADE

The annual Peanut Fest parade is one of the most popular events leading up to the celebration of Suffolk's treasured legume.

Folks from all over the city visit downtown to get a glimpse of antique automobiles, marching bands, animal units, floats, dancers and other parade participants celebrating one of the first weekends of autumn and the coming of the festival.

Photos by R.E. SPEARS III

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suffolk scene SHRIMP FEAST

The annual Shrimp Feast celebration was held the Thursday of Peanut Fest and brought in thousands of dollars for the Suffolk Ruritan Club. Clockwise from below are Jackie and Tim Hinson enjoying the party; Catina Myrick and Letitia Milteer arriving at Shrimp Feast; Raymond and Jean Nipper and Kathy and Bill Street listening to the band; Eric House, Karen House and Keith Preston taking in the atmosphere; and Chris Copeland, Matt Fussell and Dustin Burkey enjoying their plates of shrimp, barbecue and fixings.

PHOTOS BY TRACY AGNEW

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suffolk living

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get to know

Santa’s Helper Woleben devotes time and energy to Toys for Tots

Story by Tracy Agnew Photography by R.E. Spears III and Tracy Agnew

For a man who doesn’t have any young children, John Woleben spends a lot of time thinking about toys.

In the summer, Woleben lines up his annual “toy show,” where three toy wholesalers display their wares for him to decide which toys to purchase in bulk for the Suffolk Toys for Tots program.

When fall begins, Woleben gears up for the Christmas season, when he will spend most of his time crisscrossing Hampton Roads to collect donated toys, hand them out to needy families who call him as late as Christmas Eve and coordinate other aspects of the program.

After Christmas, there are reports to file.

The rest of the year, he just keeps a close eye on the price of bicycles. If a sale price drops under $50, he’s on the phone to the central office of the Marine Corps Reserverun program, asking for permission to buy as many as he can.

“He’s just so committed,” said Maj. Cal Clatterbuck of Suffolk’s Salvation Army Corps, which helps screen eligible families to receive toys. “I think it’s his life sometimes. He lives toys.”

An insurance salesman, the 65-year-old Woleben first became involved with Toys for Tots through the S uffolk Association of Life Underwriters. The group started collecting toys on its own in the early ‘80s, putting boxes around the city for donations.

See WOLEBEN page 22

22 suffolk living

John Woleben, center, accepts a check for the proceeds of a fundraiser held by the Hampton Roads Radio Control Club on Nov. 3 from Bob Howell, left, and Mills Staylor.

WOLEBEN continued from page 21

In the late ‘90s, the group — now known as the South Hampton Roads Chapter of the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors Virginia — merged its efforts with the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program and became an official Local Community Organization, the term for an approved area Toys for Tots representative.

After family, church and work, the program takes up much of his time, he said, no matter the month of the year.

“I get calls about it year ‘round,” he said. “I start getting calls in July and August about toys or toy pickup locations.”

The calls usually persist right up until Christmas Eve. And even though nearly all of the organization’s toys are distributed at the Toys for Tots “toy shop” earlier in December each year, sometimes a need arises long after the deadline for applications and screening by the Salvation Army and the Department of

“It’s all about the kids.

You see the look on the children’s faces when they get a toy at Christmas.”

John Woleben — Toys for Tots

Social Services.

Woleben always tries to find toys for families who find themselves in desperate situations, even if it’s only hours before Christmas.

It’s simple to pinpoint his motivation.

“It’s all about the kids,” he said. “You see the look on the children’s faces when they get a toy at Christmas.”

A less obvious motivation was his upbringing. Woleben says he was raised to give back.

“I believe everybody ought to try to give back and help their fellow man,” he said. “It’s part of my upbringing.”

His wife Ann is the lower-school librarian at Nansemond-Suffolk Academy. Their son — whom Woleben calls “the pride and joy of my life” — is a pediatric emergency room physician, associate professor and dean of student affairs at the Medical College of Virginia.

When he’s not doing anything else, Woleben enjoys playing golf, swimming and reading mysteries. He’s involved in the choir and as a Sunday school teacher at Benn’s United Methodist Church.

But this time of year, especially, you can be sure he’s working somewhere as Santa’s helper.

To help purchase toys for Toys for Tots, donate to the Cheer Fund by mailing a check to P.O. Box 1220, Suffolk, VA 23439.←

suffolk living

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on vacation Suffolk Living Visits Augusta

Suffolk Living was spotted visiting Meadow Garden, the historic Augusta, Ga., farm home of Georgia signer of the Declaration of Independence, George Walton. Walton was born in Virginia and moved to Georgia about 1769. Meadow Garden Docent Chairman Patsy Powell Ray holds the September/October issue.

Submitted Photo

Suffolk Living Visits DALLAS

In July, Suffolk Boy Scout Troop 1 leaders Robert and Marie Baker took seven Eagle Scouts in their RV on a three-week adventure through Georgia, Louisiana, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Tennessee and Virginia as part of a trip to Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, N.M., to participate in the National Adult Youth Leadership Experience. The Scouts, whose troop is sponsored

by Main Street United Methodist Church, took Suffolk Living magazine on the VIP tour at the Dallas Cowboys stadium. From left are Patrick Suttle, David Forman, Tyler Robinson, Stephen Shaffer, Logan Higbea, Bobby Locke (Troop 41) and J.B. Powell.

Submitted Photo

Suffolk Living Visits CULPEPER

Bob Mayo relaxes on the back porch of an old farmhouse near Culpeper with a copy of Suffolk Living magazine. Next time you’re traveling, carry along a copy and snap a photo. Then, send it to news@ suffolklivingmag.com, and we’ll try to get it into the next edition.

Submitted Photo

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History and the holiday Society highlights some of Suffolk’s oldest homes Story by Tracy Agnew Photography by Troy Cooper

Call it “candy and candlelight.” While that’s not precisely the theme for an event that has become a holiday tradition in Suffolk, it comes pretty close to portraying the ambience of the Suffolk-Nansemond Historical Society’s annual Candlelight Tour.

This year’s event, the 36th for the organization, incorporates elements of history, faith, culture and local merchants — and candy, of course.

The 36th annual Candlelight Tour will be held Dec. 1-2. The event aims to spotlight historic buildings in Suffolk while raising money for and bringing attention to the Suffolk-Nansemond Historical Society.

When the first Candlelight Tour was held in 1976, the historical society hoped to convince folks that tearing down older buildings in the name of progress would be detrimental to the city’s heritage, according to historical society volunteer Sue Woodward.

Every year, the tour opens a handful of privately owned homes and other historical buildings to the public, allowing visitors to get into the See HISTORY page 26

The 36th annual Candlelight Tour will be held Dec. 1-2 from 2 to 6 p.m. Tickets are $15 per person and are on sale at the Suffolk Seaboard Station Railroad Museum and the Suffolk Visitor Center.

For more information, call the historical society at 539-2781.

suffolk living 25

Homes open on this year's Candlelight Tour include the Prentis House, above; the Britt-Woodward House, left; and the Eley-Duggan House, above left. The background images are a compilation of sketches of the homes done for the historical society by local artists Douglas Naismith and Edward L. King.

26 suffolk living

HISTORY continued from page 24

holiday spirit while being transported to the Christmas seasons of yesteryear.

A theme — usually a neighborhood or historic event — connects the houses. This year, in the 150th anniversary year of the Union occupation of Suffolk, guests will visit two houses whose early owners dealt with the occupation in 1862-1863, and then two houses that represent the post-war return to prosperity.

The first two are the Prentis House, 321 N. Main St., and the Britt-Woodward House, 227 N. Main St. The Prentis House, aside from representing the war period, also is a shining example of the benefit of renovating a historic building rather than tearing it down, Woodward said.

Many in the community called for the once-dilapidated Prentis House to be torn down before it was renovated, Woodward said. Since then, it has served as a business office and as the Suffolk Visitor Center before that institution moved to another renovated building down the street, the former Nansemond County courthouse.

The house at 227 N. Main St. is Woodward’s own home. The house is in the same neighborhood where her husband’s family has lived since the late 19th century.

Also on the tour, representing the postwar period, are the Richard Seth EleyDuggan House, 251 N. Main St., which has been in the same family since 1878, and the Phillips-Dawson House, 137 Bank St., which serves as the headquarters of the historical society.

An addition to the tour this year will be festive tablescapes by regional merchants.

Each home will have at least two tablescapes, which will be arranged by merchants includ-

ing Uniquely Leo’s, Cordially Invited, Jester’s and Nansemond Antiques of Suffolk; 18th Century Merchant of Churchland; Mansion House Art and Antiques of Smithfield; Way Back Yonder Antiques of Portsmouth; Vaughan’s Jewelry and Fine Gifts of Edenton; and Ragged Robin Gifts of Virginia Beach.

In another festive first for the tour, three churches in Suffolk’s historic downtown will participate in an Advent Bell Ring at 5 p.m. both days of the tour. Songs of the season will ring out from the carillons of Main Street United Methodist Church, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church and Suffolk Christian Church.

There’s time during the tour for sweets, too. The Phillips-Dawson House will once again host the Sugar Plum Kitchen, where guests can purchase all manner of baked treats to satisfy their cravings.

Also open during the tour will be the 1885

Suffolk Seaboard Station Railroad Museum, 326 N. Main St., which is owned and managed by the historical society. On Saturday during the tour, Monette Harrell will be available to sign copies of “The Ham Book.”

On Sunday at 2:30 and 3:30 p.m., Bill Cole will give a cooking demonstration. He is proprietor of the York River Bed & Breakfast and has recipes featured in the Virginia Bed & Breakfast Cookbook. Both books will be available for purchase.

Some downtown merchants also are offering special hours and discounts to tour ticket holders.

The 36th annual Candlelight Tour will be held Dec. 1-2 from 2 to 6 p.m. Tickets are $15 per person and are on sale at the Suffolk Seaboard Station Railroad Museum and the Suffolk Visitor Center. For more information, call the historical society at 539-2781. ←

Marcy Miller of Uniquely Leo's lights a candle on the tablescape she created for the Candlelight Tour from merchandise available in her North Main Street store. She is one of nine area merchants who arranged festive tablescapes for the houses on the Candlelight Tour.

suffolk living 27

Kate Cross is one of many bakers who prepare the sweet treats sold at the Suffolk-Nansemond Historical Society's Sugar Plum Kitchen during the annual Candlelight Tour. This recipe she got from a friend combines the perfect fall and winter flavors.

Pumpkin White Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Cookies

42 cups all-purpose flour 41 teaspoon baking soda 41 cup butterscotch chips 412 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened 42/3 cup granulated sugar 42/3 cup light brown sugar 41 large egg 42/3 cup cooked fresh or canned pumpkin puree 41 to 1.5 cup old fashioned rolled oats 48 ounces white chocolate, cut into 1/4-inch chunks or 1 1/2 cups white chocolate chips 41 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

3. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar and brown sugar until fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes, stopping several times to scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add the egg and pumpkin and stir to combine.

4. Combine the pumpkin mixture with the flour mixture and stir to moisten all dry ingredients. Add the oats, chocolate and walnuts and stir to combine well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or lightly grease.

5. Scoop the dough onto the prepared baking sheet with 1/4 cup measure or ice cream scoop leaving 2 inches between the cookies.

2. Place the flour and baking soda in the bowl of a food processor fitted with the metal blade and pulse several times. Add the butterscotch chips and process until the chips are ground to resemble coarse meal. Turn this mixture into a large bowl.

6. Bake the cookies on a center rack in the oven for 13 to 15 minutes, rotating the cookie sheets halfway through for even baking, until golden brown. Cool the cookies on the baking sheets about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

28 suffolk living

where am I?

I

n each edition the Suffolk Living staff provides a challenge of sorts, testing how much of Suffolk you really know.

We photograph some location in Suffolk that is readily accessible and open to the public, and see if you can tell us where it is.

If you know where this photo was taken, submit your answer, along with your name and contact information to news@suffolklivingmag.com. If you’re right, you will be entered for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate to any one of our partner advertisers.

So, if you know where this is, let us know. If you’re right, you could be a winner.

Go out and enjoy Suffolk!

suffolk living 29

in the news

ramping up Companies turning to Suffolk for distribution Story by R.E. Spears III Photography by R.E. Spears III and Tracy Agnew

As 2012 draws to a close, elected officials and economic development officers in Suffolk continue to ride a wave of openings in what has become the city’s fastest-growing business sector: warehousing and distribution.

Since July, three huge distribution facilities have opened in Suffolk industrial parks, two of them in October alone. Ace Hardware, Sumitomo Machinery Corp. and the Naval Exchange Service Command have all rolled up their big bay doors and started filling tractor trailers from loading docks located in their new facilities this year. Their opening heralds a new wave of businesses in the logistics and transportation services sector for Suffolk.

From Northgate Logistics Center to CenterPoint Intermodal Center, from the Virginia Regional Commerce Park to the Westport Commerce Park and at other sites around the city, warehouse buildings with 28- and 32-foot ceiling heights are rising out of what was once farmland or forest, making Suffolk a quick favorite of companies looking to open distribution points near the growing Hampton Roads ports and the highway arteries leading into the American heartland.

“That’s one of the things we were looking for, was a good harbor location,” Caspari Inc. President Douglas Stevens said in 2011, when

See RIBBON page 37

30 suffolk living

Officials cut the ribbon at the Navy Exchange Service Command’s new distribution center off Kenyon Road on Oct. 26. It is the second warehouse to open in the CenterPoint development and will support 112 Navy Exchanges and 41 Marine Corps Exchanges in the United States, as well as warehouses in Europe, Bahrain, Cuba and Africa.

RIBBONS continued from page 29

his company became the first tenant in the Virginia Regional Commerce Park off of Pruden Boulevard.

Caspari’s high-end paper products are printed overseas and shipped to the Hampton Roads port, where the containers holding them are loaded onto trucks for delivery to the Suffolk warehouse. From that location, the original containers are broken down and redistributed into new containers that are then loaded onto other trucks headed for retail sellers around the country.

It’s the distribution model of the future for companies of all types, and Suffolk is situated right by an East Coast focal point.

“This distribution center became an integral part of our mission to expand,” Sumitomo

President and CEO Ronald J. Smith said at a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the company’s new Virginia Regional Commerce distribution center in October. Among other things, Sumitomo makes parts for conveyor systems, and the new location gives the company more control of its distribution system and enables conversion of its Chesapeake facility to manufacturing.

“For our company, it’s truly innovative,” Smith told a group of visitors.

There was a similar feeling of innovation during the July grand opening of a 336,000square-foot Ace Hardware distribution center in the sprawling CenterPoint Intermodal Center on Holland Road. The facility gives Ace, the largest hardware company in the country,

the ability to receive imported goods on the East Coast for the first time, company officials said at the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

The cost savings realized from reducing travel miles and time for trucks headed to Ace retailer support centers as far west as Texas will help cut delivery costs. “That means hundreds of thousands of customers of this facility will benefit,” said James Hatcher, a member of the company’s board of directors and one of its store owners.

Another new CenterPoint tenant, the Naval Exchange Service Command, or NEXCOM, expects similar results for its customers, the men and women who serve or have served in the U.S. Navy. NEXCOM’s Suffolk facility will handle about $146 million worth of merchanSee RIBBON page 31

RIBBONS continued from page 30

dise a year, supporting 112 Navy Exchanges and 41 Marine Corps Exchanges in the United States, as well as warehouses in Europe, Bahrain, Cuba and Africa.

“This building will further enable us to deliver this benefit our sailors and their families have earned and so richly deserve,” Robert Bianchi, chief executive officer of the Navy Exchange Service Command, said at the facility’s grand opening celebration.

“The real end game,” added Fourth-District Congressman J. Randy Forbes, “is that we’re looking to say, ‘How can we take care of these men and women who are getting up every single day and fighting to keep us free?’”

Suffolk now plays an important part in meeting that goal. ←

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Above, officials cut the ribbon at the Ace Hardware warehouse in the CenterPoint development on July 26. It was the first warehouse to open in the CenterPoint development. True to the company's merchandise, the ribbon was nailed to wooden pallets and cut with a pair of garden shears. Below, officials wait to cut the ribbon at Sumitomo Machinery Corp.'s new warehouse on Oct. 24. It is located at the Virginia Regional Commerce Park.

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mystery and traditions Freemasonry has been a part of Suffolk for 222 years Story by R.E. Spears III Photography by R.E. Spears III, Troy Cooper and Submitted

Suffolk Lodge No. 30 of the Ancient Free & Accepted Masons has met in the two-story brick building at the corner of North Main and Freemason streets in downtown Suffolk since 1911. At their meetings, Freemasons wear "jewels" (background) to denote their position in the order.

It’s an organization whose secrecy is legendary, the stuff from which books are written, movies produced and conspiracy theories made.

It’s a brotherhood whose ties extend backward for centuries and with its roots in the temple to Jehovah that King Solomon built nearly 3,000 years ago. And even though many of the signs and symbols are ancient, Freemasonry endures all around the world. In Suffolk, the organization traces back more than 220 years, with Masons meeting at the same site since 1847 and in the same building since 1911.

It’s the building at the corner, appropriately, of North Main and Freemason streets in the downtown area. The one with the blacked-out windows. It’s that secrecy thing again.

But not everything Freemasons do is a secret, and Suffolk’s Tom Lord, Tiler (a sort of Sergeant at Arms) for Suffolk Lodge No. 30, admitted a visitor to the facility recently and revealed a bit about the local arm of the international organization, along with its history and purpose.

“I want to bring Freemasonry out of the closet,” he said, “try to explain who we are and what we are as Masons.”

Behind the secret handshakes, the secret signs, the secret passwords and all the rest of the mystery, Freemasonry is about some very basic concepts, he said.

“Fellowship, brotherhood and working for the good of the community.”

Members get together to share meals at the lodge, to conduct lodge business, to learn the things they have to know to advance in the organization and to discuss See MASONS page 34

34 suffolk living MASONS continued from page 33

how they can serve the needs of the brotherhood and the community.

“Freemasonry is a brotherhood of men who believe in God and who, through their association with Freemasonry, become better men,” he said. “Everybody is our brother, whether a Mason or not. A Mason becomes more tolerant, and attuned to what is right in this world.”

The organization’s meetings, open only to Masons, are held in the second floor of the Masonic lodge, which was built from plans and specifications drawn up by Charles Fine Taylor, a vice president of Lummis and Co. in the early 20th century. Taylor also served as Senior Warden and then Worshipful Master of the Lodge from 1909 through 1911, the period when the Masonic temple was being planned and built.

It was not the first building on the property. The original structure on the site served as a Masonic Lodge and as one of the first schools in Suffolk, Lord said. During the Civil War occupation of Suffolk, the 11th Indiana Cavalry used it as a lodge for its own Masonic meetings, and Union soldiers used it as a hospital.

Lord says there is also evidence that one of three signal towers located in what is now Suffolk was erected on the property.

When the U.S. soldiers decamped from Suffolk, he said, they took many “souvenirs” from the lodge, including its founding charter, a ceremonial sword and “jewels” worn by members to denote their rank within the organization.

“It took us 46 years to get our charter back,” Lord said, noting that Masons from a lodge in Rhode Island helped return it in 1909. “At the age of the lodge, to have those — that’s important to our heritage.”

Freemasons have been integral to the history of Suffolk. A roll of Worshipful Masters, the lodge’s annually elected leaders, includes names that are familiar to any Suffolkian: Riddick, Prentis, Pruden, Parker, Eley, Woodward, Barton, Causey, Norfleet, Quimby, Cutchins, Harrell, Duke and many others. Some of the city’s founding fathers and some of its most influential citizens have been Freemasons in Lodge No. 30, according to the bicentennial history.

The same things are true at the national level and internationally. George Washington was a Freemason and is said to have laid the cornerstone of the Capital building in full Masonic dress.

A Freemason designed the Statue of Liberty.

Masonic traditions — and secrets — have been handed down from one generation of Masons to the next, from one Grand Lodge in England, where the order is thought to have started in the 16th century; to the U.S., where it was brought in 1719; to the Grand Lodge in Virginia, which chartered the Sinai Chapter, Lodge No. 30, in 1790; to the smaller lodges that spawned from the mother lodge in Suffolk.

Through it all, the traditions endure. In the words of a booklet printed in 2002 for the benefit of men petitioning to join the organization, “… understand that you are not merely joining a Lodge, but that you are becoming a part of a worldwide brotherhood of Freemasons, and that the sun never sets upon its Lodges.” ←

A Masonic funeral is an occasion for ceremony and traditions and gives Freemasons the opportunity to serve the community and the family of their deceased brother. Masons attend ceremonies attired conservatively and wearing the symbols of their order.

Members of Suffolk Lodge No. 30 gave the community a look at their funeral traditions when Riddick's Folly held a recreation of the funeral of Judge Nathaniel Riddick in 2008.

suffolk living 35

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36 suffolk living

Pickin’ Driver Every Friday, a jam session breaks out at Arthur’s Story and Photos by Matt Hartman

O

n Friday nights in the village of Driver, Arthur’s General Store comes to life with the sound of sweet music.

Pulling into the parking lot, one hears guitar plucking and percussion beats radiating from the circa-1920s wooden building.

The bell on the door and the creaking floor announce a new musician or a curious listener, and one never can tell just how many folks will be playing on any given Friday.

Store owner Greg Parker, who started messing about with bands at age 14, says he likes being able to kindle unique music among likeminded people.

He says it’s a welcome change from, during his gigging years, having to be at a certain place in a certain amount of time.

“That happens to anybody when you’re young and out playing,” he said of the days when he would play gigs in the Carolinas, Maryland and many places in between. “The chances of lightning striking are pretty small, but you do it because you love it.”

Parker “pulled the plug” on the store’s outdoor sessions at the end of last year’s season, but then he decided to restart them inside in January.

“It sounds really good in this old wooden building,” he said, adding that during the warmer months it’s also a treat to sit out on the porch and play.

Sometimes it’s just five musicians, other times as many as 25 show up, Parker said. The tradition began about three years ago when he and friends started playing music on the porch every other Wednesday.

“The first year, it seemed like every other Wednesday it wanted to rain,” he said.

The core performers at Arthur’s General Store — the house band, if you will — are Jim Masters, Nancy Gordon, Alex See BLUEGRASS page 38

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37

From left, John Hall, Kenny Hill and Nancy Gordon jam at Arthur's General Store in Driver.

38 suffolk living

Above, Don Profitt plays guitar during a Friday night music session at Arthur's General Store in Driver. Below, Kyle Moseley concentrates while picking a guitar.

BLUEGRASS continued from page 36

Woodland and Parker himself.

They love to see some others get up, and many do when they feel the mood grip them. They turn from audience members into part of the music making, taking it in unanticipated directions, and that’s when the spirit of the gathering really builds.

Jim MacCord, whom Parker said hasn’t attended lately, sometimes turns up with his bongo drums, when his work schedule with local ban ds permits.

“If I am free, I can come out and join in,” MacCord said.

Parker said that after living the life of a regular gigging musician for years, he has decided those days are over.

“I don’t want to strap into that again,” he said. “I need to focus on my business, so I decided to bring it right back home.”

Folks who show up at the Driver store to play or just listen feel like they are part of something special.

They never know what song will be struck up next. There are no set lists or mandatory genres — people just get up there and play what they know.

Parker keeps the store open during performances, offering subs, snacks and beverages. As a businessman in a struggling economy, the music both helps his business and brings the community together, he says.

Parker’s son Jordan and friend Kyle Mosley often play guitar — strictly instrumental. Together for only a few months, See BLUEGRASS page 39

suffolk living 39 BLUEGRASS continued from page 38

they’ve landed a couple of paying gigs from playing at the store.

Jordan Parker said, “It’s something good that needs to be done. It’s fun to have music here.”

He enjoys fostering the sense of community, he says, and sees the potential for people to come together and build new friendships.

Greg Parker says he wants to develop themed nights based on specific musical genres, such as bluegrass Wednesdays and songwriters’ workshop nights.

As it stands, the Friday evening sessions start at 6 p.m. and usually run about three hours, drawing people from as far as Arkansas, with regulars coming from Newport News and Virginia Beach.

“I think I’m enjoying the music and the simplicity more than I ever have,” Parker said.

“There is nothing better than just being able to perform. It’s just a gift.” ← — Staff Writer Matthew A. Ward contributed to this story.

Above, Jim MacCord plays bongo drums during a Friday night jam session at Arthur's General Store. Below left, a man picks a banjo, and below right, Giles Newsome gets animated while playing the guitar.

40 suffolk living

With thousands of people milling about the grounds at any given moment during the Suffolk Peanut Festival in early October, there were bound to be a few cameras and talented photographers on hand throughout the weekend. We put out a call to all those talented amateurs asking them to share their photos with us at our booth. Join us as we take a look at some of our favorite submitted photos from one of our favorite events of the year in Suffolk.

And thanks to all those who participated.

peanut pix This page, the Peanut Queen and her court enjoy the activities; a peanut butter sculpture celebrates Suffolk; a young visitor enjoys a snowcone. Opposite page, clockwise from top, girls participate in a carnival game; an ice-cream booth advertises its product by its shape; participants prepare for the World's Only Peanut Butter Sculpture Contest; a boy cautiously pets a goat at the petting zoo. Photos in this feature courtesy of Robin Hirsch, Stephen Hobbs, Sherry Matthews, Mike Owen, Marsha Rooks, Sherri Stone, Tiffany Witherspoon and Suffolk Master Gardeners.

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Opposite page, clockwise from top left corner, a view of the midway from the Ferris wheel; Sandee Darden shows off her first-place ribbon for the peanut butter sculpture contest; kids play in the bumper cars; a tortoise greets the crowd at the petting zoo; a man gets into the breast-cancer awareness spirit. This page, clockwise from top left, a Nansemond River High School choral group performs; visitors enjoy a pig at the petting zoo; tired petting zoo denizens take a nap; a musical group performs; the Suffolk Master Gardeners get silly in their booth.

44 suffolk living

index of advertisers Autumn Care…................10 Blair Brothers…...............18 Bond’s Fine Cigar Shoppe..16 Bronco FCU....................….6 Celebration Church..........14 Chorey & Associates…..48 Davis Lakes.................….14 D.B. Bowles Jewelers…...10 Dragas....................47 Drs. Jett, Sellers and LaRusso..................10 Duke Automotive......12, 35 East End Baptist Church...18 Ellen Drames…..............…2 Franklin Business Incubator......................18 Harbour Veterinary Office..14 Historic Obici House..….7

Isle of Wight Academy.....14 Ivor Furniture Company….14 Mega ‘Dors and Windows..14 Mike Duman Auto Sales…..18 Nancy’s Calico Patch…....16 N a n s e m o n d Suffolk Academy..................7 Parker Oil and Propane….10 Rawlings Mechanical…....35 R.L. Howell and Associates.16 Suffolk Public Schools…...35 Suffolk Sheet Metal…....44 The Peanut Kids................12 The Village at Woods Edge...3 Virginia Oncology..........…4 Womble Generator….......18 Woodard Orthodontics....8

Last edition’s Where Am I? Robert E. Lewis, a traffic engineer for the city of Suffolk, is the winner of the September/ October edition’s “Where Am I?” contest. where am I? Fittingly, I Lewis knew just what he was looking at when he saw the photo of the antique road grader that sits at the entrance to Blair Brothers Contracting on Bennetts Pasture Road. By guessing the location correctly, he wins a gift certificate for $25 to the advertiser of his choice. For your chance to win, check out Page 28 for this edition’s “Where Am I?” n each edition the Suffolk Living staff provides a challenge of sorts, testing how much of Suffolk you really know.

We photograph some location in Suffolk that is readily accessible and open to the public, and see if you can tell us where it is.

If you know where this photo was taken, submit your answer, along with your name and contact information to news@suffolklivingmag.com. If you’re right, you will be entered for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate to any one of our partner advertisers.

So, if you know where this is, let us know. If you’re right, you could be a winner.

Go out and enjoy Suffolk!

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scrapbook

Christmas in Many lAnds: Young ladies portray “Christmas in Many Lands” on this float from a Christmas parade in the 1950s. The countries portrayed include, from left, Egypt, Japan, Holland and Mexico. The Palace Theater can be seen in the background.

— Photo courtesy of the Suffolk-Nansemond Historical Society

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