suffolklivingmag.com
Chicken Swap fowl, festival and fun times at respass beach
september/october 2018 • vol. 9, no. 5
2 suffolk living
If your pet had a medical emergency, would you know where to go?
757.935.9111
When minutes count – count on The COVE. A world-class 24/7 animal emergency and specialty hospital – in your own backyard. Advanced care by referral: + Cardiology + ER/Critical Care + Dentistry + Surgery Located 1/4 mile from Hwy 664 N. @ College Drive exit.
6550 Hampton Roads Pkwy, #113 • Suffolk, VA 23435 • thecovevets.com Jeff Stallings, DVM, DACVS • Merrilee Small, DVM, DACVIM (Cardiology) Jacqueline Nobles, DVM, DACVECC • Colleen Fox, DVM
suffolk living 3
SENTARA COMPREHENSIVE BREAST PROGRAM The Sentara Cancer Network is dedicated to providing women with high-quality, personalized care for breast health. Women can trust that when they choose Sentara Comprehensive Breast Centers, that they will benefit from the wide range of services offered, including:
Individualized Treatment & Advanced Technology Experienced Care Team Online Scheduling & Extended Hours Dedicated Breast Cancer Navigators & Support Groups
Regardless of your breast health needs, our Sentara Comprehensive Breast Center care teams will be with you every step of the way to ensure you receive timely, quality and compassionate care.
Locations in Western Tidewater Sentara BelleHarbour Breast Center 3920 A Bridge Rd. Suffolk, VA 23435 Sentara Obici Comprehensive Breast Center 2800 Godwin Blvd. Suffolk, VA 23439 Advanced Imaging Center – St. Luke’s 20209 Sentara Way Carrollton, VA 23314
To schedule your annual mammogram, visit sentara.com/Mammogram or call 757-736-0040
FEATURE
18
Many who have lived in the Respass Beach area for generations remember a whole different area where they grew up.
contents sept. - oct. | 2018 23
WHERE AM I? | Think you know Suffolk well? Then see if you can identify this photo.
Advertising rates and information available upon request. Subscriptions are $20 annually in-state; $25 annually out-of-state; $30 for international subscriptions. Please make checks payable to Suffolk Publications, LLC P.O. Box 1220, Suffolk, VA 23439
Chicken Swap
12 Chicken swaps support the agricultural community by allowing them to find new livestock and make connections.
On the cover suffolklivingmag.com
26 Peanut Fest
Suffolk's favorite fall festival comes complete with rides, games, entertainment, plenty of fun and, of course, peanuts.
Chicken Swap FOWL, FESTIVAL AND FUN TIMES AT RESPASS BEACH
september/october 2018 • vol. 9, no. 5
by Tracy Agnew
editor's note sept. - oct.
2018
Autumn is upon us In September and October, our thoughts turn to cooler days, the start of a new school year and the hope for a bountiful harvest.
EDITORIAL
This edition does a pretty good job encapsulating those thoughts with stories on the monthly
Tracy Agnew Editor
chicken swap and the upcoming Peanut Fest.
Alex Perry Writer & Photographer
the chicken swaps held regularly here in Suffolk are organized affairs that bring together like-mind-
Jen Jaqua Photographer Kellie Adamson Writer news@suffolklivingmag.com
ADVERTISING
To the uninitiated, a chicken swap might sound like an arbitrary exchange of fowl, at best. But ed people to buy, sell and trade animals that might enhance their agricultural lifestyle, whether they intend to raise them for their meat, their egg and dairy products or maybe just for enjoyment. The chicken swap isn’t just a place to find chickens as well as ducks, guinea fowl, goats, pigs, rabbits and more; it’s a place to connect with your neighbors, find new friends and learn some-
Earl Jones Marketing Consultant
thing new.
Lindsay Richardson Marketing Consultant
crop, which has declined in acreage but not in celebration over the
Dana Snow Marketing Consultant
includes rides, games, attractions, shows, vendors, contests, special
Kandyce Kirkland Marketing Consultant
the inside back cover for a fun remembrance of a Peanut Fest from the past.
At the Peanut Fest, the harvest of Suffolk’s erstwhile signature years, will be celebrated. Peanut Fest is always a great time that events and, of course, a handful of peanuts you can grab and crack as you walk around. Check out Longtime residents of a certain neighborhood in North Suffolk will remember Respass Beach
sales@suffolklivingmag.com
as it’s recollected in the story and photos by Phyllis Speidell and John Sheally II. The legacy of this
PRODUCTION
“Paradise on the James” lives on in a few road names and in the hearts and minds of those who
Troy Cooper Designer
ADMINISTRATION John Carr Publisher
Cathy Daughtrey Business Manager Hope Rose Production
lived there decades ago. We always welcome your submissions for our On Vacation and Through the Lens features, answers to our Where Am I? challenge, your tips about great stories, and your suggestions for how to make this magazine even better. Please send those items to news@suffolklivingmag.com. God bless. Tracy Agnew, Editor
Suffolk Living is published six times per year by Suffolk Publications, LLC. P.O. Box 1220, Suffolk, VA 23439 www.suffolklivingmag.com • (757) 539-3437
suffolk living 7
THANKS WE THANKS WE FOR APPRECIATE WE FORCELEBRATING APPRECIATE THANKS WE THE THE APPRECIATE THE FOR THE 35 YEARS APPRECIATE THANKS WE CONFIDENCE OPPORTUNITY THE CONFIDENCE OPPORTUNITY THE FOR THE APPRECIATE OPPORTUNITY TO YOU'VE OF YOU'VE TO CONFIDENCE OPPORTUNITY THE THE TO SERVE SHOWN DENTAL SHOWN YOU'VE TO SERVE SERVE CONFIDENCE OPPORTUNITY YOU! IN US! HEALTH IN US! YOU! SHOWN YOU'VE TO SERVE YOU! INDr. US! YOU! SHOWN SERVE Dr. J. Ryland Gwaltney Dr. Steve A. Gwaltne Whitney B. Gwaltney Dr.Gwaltney J. Ryland Gwaltney Dr. J. Ryland Dr. Steve A. Gwaltney Whitney B. Gwaltney Dr. Whitney Dr. B. Gwaltney Dr. Steve A. Gwaltney IN US! YOU!
J. Ryland Gwaltney
Dr. Steve A. Gwaltney
Dr. Whitney B. Gwaltney
nd Gwaltney
Dr. Steve A. Gwaltney
Dr. Whitney B. Gwaltney
andDentistry Implant Dentistry LOCALS CHOICE • Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry • Cosmetic• Cosmetic and Implant 6 2016 • DigitalDentistry Imaging Photography •and Digital Imaging and Photography Cosmetic and Implant • Digital Imaging and Photography 6 c and• Implant • Compassionate Compassionate Experienced Digital Imaging•Dentistry and Photography Compassionate Experienced Staff 6 Staff Experienced Staff maging and Photography Compassionate Staff Pain Free Dentistry •Experienced Gentle, Free• Gentle, Dentistry • Gentle, Pain FreePain Dentistry
sionate Experienced Staff Gentle, Pain Free Dentistry Ask About Our Whitening Special • Ask About Our Whitening • Ask About Our • Special Whitening Special Pain Free Dentistry Ask About Our Whitening Special
ut Our Whitening Special
6 6 6
6
•Dental Comprehensive Dental CareDental Care for Ad LOCALS• Comprehensive CHOICE Comprehensive Care for •Adults, 6 for Adults, Adolescents and 2016 • Comprehensive Dental for Adults, Adolescents And Children Adolescents AndCare Children Children
• Comprehensive Dental Care for Adults, • Same Day Crowns Adolescents And Children • Same Day Crowns • Same Day Crowns Adolescents And Children • Same Day Crowns • Nitrous Oxide Sedation for • Nitrous Oxide Sedation for • Nitrous Oxide Sedation for • Same Day Crowns • Nitrous Apprehensive Oxide SedationPatients forApprehensive Apprehensive Patients Patients • Nitrous Apprehensive Oxide SedationPatients for Apprehensive Patients
Celebrating 35 Years of Dental Health
Call 539-3021 For Appointment
2486 Pruden Blvd. (Rout 460) • Suffolk Professional Center
www.gwaltneydentistry.com
We accept most insurance plans.
She has her own kids, but here she is taking care of me.
Your children would do anything for you, of course. But as you get older, you may need more help than they can provide – or more than you’re comfortable asking of them. Assisted Living at The Crossings is the perfect solution. With private apartments, weekly housekeeping and restaurant style dining included, and professional caregivers and medical services at the ready, as needed, The Crossings offers a wonderful community and lifestyle for you. And peace of mind for your kids. Plus, our rental advantage – affordable monthly rent with no large buy-in – makes it more affordable than you may think. Call us at (757) 214-6279 to discuss your circumstances. We’ll help you explore whether Assisted Living at The Crossings is right for you.
Ask us about Veterans Aid & Attendance Benefits.
5871 Harbour View Boulevard • Suffolk, VA 23435 • TheCrossingsAtHarbourView.com
Small Pets Welcome
8 suffolk living
what to do Send us your news To submit your calendar or news item, simply email it to: news@suffolklivingmag.com
Suffolk Peanut Festival October 4-7
This year marks the 41st anniversary of the Suffolk Peanut Festival. This family-friendly event honors the city's agriculture heritage and devotion to peanuts, our favorite legumes. Known for its fun family activities, Suffolk Peanut Fest offers concerts, amusement rides, contests and competitions, a demolition derby, motorcycle rally, shrimp feast, fireworks and much more. Combine all of these great activities with local and national entertainment and you have a weekend full of good times!
suffolk living 9
what to do September 22
Meet Gabriela McBride! Gabriela has grown up surrounded by the arts — dance, painting, music, and theater. But poetry is becoming her art form of choice, for good reason: she struggles with stuttering and poetry helps her words flow more freely. Although Gabriela is a bit quiet, when she does speak, she is sharp, honest, and funny. But can she learn to harness the power of her words and her creativity to help save her beloved community arts center from being torn down? There will be three sittings at Riddick’s Folly, 510 N. Main St.: 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Space is limited and reservations are required. Donations welcome. Ages 5 and up are welcome. Call for reservations at 934-0822 or email riddicksfolly@verizon.net.
Holland Ruritan Club's Custom Car & Truck Show
September 22
In “Pinkalicious The Musical,” Pinkalicious can't stop eating pink cupcakes despite warnings from her parents. Her pink indulgence lands her at the doctor's office with Pinkititis, an affliction that turns her pink from head to toe — a dream come true for this pink-loving enthusiast. But when her hue goes too far, only Pinkalicious can figure out a way to get out of this predicament. The show hits the Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, 110 W. Finney Ave., at 11 a.m. September 27
Today's Peanut Festival queen is selected from among rising high school seniors that are evaluated by a panel based on four criteria: a creative writing essay; school activities; awards and achievements; and community involvement. The Queen and her Court will be recognized at a banquet produced by the Pilot Club of Suffolk from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn Suffolk Riverfront, 100 E. Constance Road. General Seating only. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Ticket outlets include the Suffolk Visitor Center, 524 N. Main St., and Bennett's Creek Pharmacy, 3219 Bridge Road. September 29
Kick off the Annual Suffolk Peanut Fest with a festive parade through downtown historic Suffolk. The parade begins at 10 a.m. and stages in the Lakeside neighborhood and proceeds down Washington Street, turning left onto North Main Street and concludes at Finney Avenue. September 29
Visit the Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, 110 W. Finney Ave., at 8 p.m. for The Ben Phelps
Project, a six-piece band from Hampton Roads. The band plays a style of music all their own merging jazz, blues and rock into an original sound. The band has worked regionally since 2004 and released two albums. October 13
Join in the fun of the Holland Ruritan Club's Custom Car & Truck Show! Rain or shine in downtown Holland village. On-site registration is from 8 to 10:30am. Registration is $20 in advance or $25 on-site. Spectators are free. More than 30 trophies will be awarded at 1:30 p.m. Door prizes, music and concessions will be on site. The first 100 vehicles receive a complimentary dash plaque. October 20-21
The annual Driver Days fall festival will feature two days of free family fun, including entertainment, parade, Strongwill 1 Mile & 5K Run, crafters and food vendors, cornhole tournament, car show, Sherri Parker Memorial Poker Run & Bike Show, pony and train rides, children's amusements, Knocker Ball, pet costume contest, and a free rock painting tent. Sponsored by Driver Merchant Association, Driver Volunteer Fire Department and American Legion Post No. 88. October 20
Get started on your Christmas shopping at the Nansemond River Pilot Club's 13th Annual Fall Fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hilton Garden Inn Suffolk Riverfront, 100 E. Constance Road. Featured items will include handmade jams and jellies, jewelry, artisan
soaps, clothing, glassware, purses, home décor and more. Plus, there will be direct sales vendors, baked goods, Brunswick stew and door prize raffles. Admission is free. October 20
The Hurrah Players, Virginia's leading family theatre company, presents the Broadway musical, “ANNIE!” at the Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, 110 W. Finney Ave., at 2 p.m. Based on the popular comic strip by Harold Gray, “ANNIE” is a worldwide phenomenon with seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical. With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone's hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. The beloved book and score by Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin, feature some of the greatest musical theatre hits ever written, including "Tomorrow" and "Hard Knock Life." October 27
Bring your little goblins and ghouls to the Seaboard Station Railroad Museum for Touch a Truck, Train & Trick or Treat! The event begins at 11 a.m. and ends at 2 p.m., rain or shine. Enjoy food, candy, games, trucks, trains and more. Children can see, touch and explore their favorite big trucks and vehicles. It is a one-day interactive event that also gives children the opportunity to meet the men and women that serve, protect and build our community. Vehicles on display include construction trucks, emergency vehicles, tractor trailers, and utility trucks. Wear your costumes and bring your own trick-or-treat bags. Tickets are $5 each or four for $15.
10 suffolk living
in the news
Citizens bust a move with police The Center of it All 110 W. Finney Ave. Suffolk, VA 23434 RS ICAL SuffolkCenter.org LAYEM P H A E US R 757.923.0003 E HUR NIE TH mpany o TH sent AN rt & C pre sored by: bel | Davenpo pm Spon Becky Ha er 20 | 2 b Jim & th , Octo
ay You Saturd dults/$20 a $25
T NCER O C n Ei nter ILLETT at the Ce m W E K LU stairs 17 | 8p le
Dourwdany, Nove1m+b/eFor od -ASvtyaleil.ab Sat Adults 2 able, Club $10/al, Comfort Casu
X UINO Q E S OU ABULRA F E pm g H T HEST 0|7 ORC ovember 3rved Seatin ,N ese Friday $35 for R $25
Smiling is Good for Life
nter olk Ce f f u S the ip with tnersh r a P in
Jana Boyd D.D.S. Family Dentistry
2900 Godwin Blvd. Suffolk, VA 23434
ts resen IETY p L SOC A R O IA CH IRGIN THE V
S LABIE L U L EST LS & CARhOe SOUTHWber 15 | 4pm of t Decem eating dS ay, Saturdfor Reserve 5 1 $
P 757-539-1588 • F 757-539-2649
SCCA MEMBERS SAVE 10%
BEST COSMETIC DENTIST/IMPLANTS
www.janaboyddds.com
suffolk living 11 Story and photos by Kellie Adamson
A
fter just a few takes, Suffolk’s police officers were panting and wiping their foreheads as a drone flew overhead trying to get all the right shots for their lip sync challenge video. Plenty of officers, uniformed and not, gathered in a field at Bennett’s Creek Park on a Friday evening back in July to shoot the second part of their lip sync video, and they invited the community to join in on the merriment. “We live in Suffolk, and when we saw that we could participate, we jumped at the chance,” Theresa Rock said. “We just wanted to come out and have fun with the officers.” The community came out in full force, and there were people of all ages ready to get their 15 seconds of fame while they danced their hearts out. One of the younger dancers was happier than the whole crowd to be there. “Dane wants to be a motorcycle policeman,” said his mother, Kimberly Rossler. Dane, 4, is also involved in dance classes, and he couldn’t wait for the chance to combine his
"The police department is very enthusiastic about it. They were happy to show them in a good light." — Andy Franklin, city spokesman two loves — dance and law enforcement. Of course, the officers had their own families come out to support the video as well. “I want to give the community some support for this, and I especially want to support Suffolk,” said Pam Rivera. “Plus, I really want to watch them dance.” Rivera is married to Suffolk Police Officer Joe Rivera, who also participated in the video. Prior to planning the video, the city was a little nervous about turnout, but their officers
surprised them. At every turn, they were ready to jump in front of the camera and make it a hit. “The police department is very enthusiastic about it,” said city spokesman Andy Franklin. “They were happy to show them in a good light.” Since police officers work in shifts, the ones participating at Bennett’s Creek weren’t on the clock, and they decided to use their time off to make the video a success, Franklin said. Suffolk’s Media and Community Relations Department handled all the footage and editing and brought heavy production value. They had three cameras onsite, and Franklin was operating a drone. To make it even better, one officer’s wife volunteered to choreograph the dance. As of early September, the final video has been viewed more than 20,000 times on YouTube and more than 294,000 times on Facebook. Suffolk Police Department was challenged in the viral sensation by the Virginia Beach Police Department and by the police department in Oshkosh, Wis., where Dean Smith, a former deputy chief in Suffolk, is chief of police.
Ask About Our Move-In Special
Concordia Assisted Living at Nansemond Commons CALL TODAY!
(757) 539-9109
d e t i Lim bility ila a v A
www.nansemondcommons.com 200 W Constance Rd, Suffolk, VA 23434
12 suffolk living
Above, Aurora Pedraza shows off two varieties of chickens she raises. Opposite page, left, Emily Foster had Standard Rex rabbits for sale at a recent chicken swap; right, ducks are among the fowl for sale.
Sw apping Chickens
on a Saturday
suffolk living 13
Story and photos by Tracy Agnew
R
abbits, goats, pigs, ducks, guinea fowl and, yes, chickens all swarm the “chicken swap” at the Suffolk Tractor Supply store on Pruden Boulevard every last Saturday of the
month. Despite its name, the chicken swap welcomes human purveyors of all things agriculture, whether chicken or non-chicken, to buy, sell or swap with other like-minded folks. “I’m definitely a critter keeper,” said Shelley Childs, who lives on a local farm with cats, dogs, horses, chickens and ducks. She strongly supports the chicken swap. “It’s important to support the local farmers. You get to see your friends and find other animal lovers like yourself.” Aurora Pedraza showed off her chickens and explained the benefits of the varieties, like Serama, Silkie and Bantam, to interested parties. Some are better for stew, some for eggs, some just for pets, she said. “It’s good exposure for the kids,” she said, apparently referring to her human children, although there were baby goats on site.
“You get to know your neighbors, too.” Emily Foster came to the chicken swap as an onlooker once before she brought back litters of Standard Rex rabbits as well as Standard Rex crossed with American Chinchilla rabbits. She and her husband raise the rabbits for meat, as they do not eat factory-farmed meat. “I visited last month and saw how busy it was,” Foster said. “It’s been great.” Edward Vasser started and organizes the chicken swap and brings his own guinea fowl to most of the events. It rotates among locations in Smithfield, Franklin and Windsor in addition to Suffolk on all of the Saturdays of the month. He said the event is for anything livestock-related and that no “junk” is allowed to be sold. The event is important because it allows purchase of livestock and other farming essentials from local neighbors. “You want to know where it’s been,” he said, adding that the community has supported the event well. “The people love it.”
14 suffolk living
You can have 24/7 power protection with a Generac® Automatic Standby Generator Over 60 Years Of Service Established 1958
The Virginian-Pilot READERS CHOICE AWARD
Of
2018
A permanently installed Generac® automatic standby generator protects your family and home from damaging, dangerous power outages.
SERVING THE PEOPLE OF THIS COMMUNITY AND THEIR BELOVED PETS FOR 30 YEARS! Open Daily 8-6 Except Thurs. 8-7 Sat. 8-12
OPEN HOUSE
• Asphalt Paving • Stone & Mulch Sales • Grading • StreetPrint
ENROLLING ENROLLING NOWNOW FOR THE FOR THE 2017 -- 2019 2018 2018 SCHOOL YEAR MARCHYEAR 7th SCHOOL
Parking Lots & Driveways www.blairbros.com
Providing Quality Paving Since 1968
757-538-1696 1 Blair Brothers Rd., Suffolk, VA
Pre-School ( 2 1/2 - 4) Through Grade 12
Isle of Wight Academy “A Tradition of Excellence”
Independent Preschool, Elementary and Secondary School
* Isle of Wight Academy admits students of any race, color and national or ethinc origin.
17111CourtHouse CourtHouse Hwy. • Isle of Wight, 17111 Wight, VA VA23397 23397 757.357.3866 • Mark Munford, Headmaster 757.357.3866 • Mr. Benjamin Vaughan, Headmaster
suffolk living 15
through the lens: Brianna Copeland
B
rianna Copeland is a 15-year-old photographer who lives in Eclipse and attends Denbigh Baptist Christian School in Newport News. She enjoys taking photos of her friends, flowers and cool buildings, especially those in New York City. We’re always looking for amateur and professional photographers who want to share their views. If you’d like to have your work considered, send an email to news@suffolklivingmag.com.
16 suffolk living
on vacation Far left, Tom and Mary Keiser tour the World War II carrier USS Yorktown in Charlestown, N.C.; at left, nine members of Bethlehem Christian Church on Holland Road went on a mission trip to Kiev, Ukraine. They are, front from left, Terese Neblett, Joyce Bryant, Stephanie Mikels, Sherry Turner, Paula Thornton and Angie Salerno; back from left, Laura Ehrenzeller, Pastor Matt Winters and Jay Whitmore.
Discounts as big as a house. Or condo. Or apartment.
Eliminate Stubborn Fat Without Surgery or Downtime
Lynch Insurance Agcy Inc State Farm Agent 5911 Harbour View Blvd. Suite 101 Suffolk, VA 23435 Bus: 757-686-9000
NEW Cool Petite Applicator Arms, Small Flanks, Inner Thighs
See just how big your savings could be.
Your savings could add up to hundreds of dollars when you put all your policies together under our State FarmÂŽ roof.
GET TO A BETTER STATETM. CALL ME TODAY.
(757) 774-5180 RSVP Online
TM
www.skin2ospa.com
5833 Harbour View • Suffolk
1103155.1
State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, State Farm Indemnity Company, Bloomington, IL
suffolk living 17
Above, Tonja Williams visited The Tides Inn resort in Irvington, Va., for her birthday weekend; far left, Gretchen Budy pauses for a photo on vacation in Las Vegas in front of The Mirage casino; at left, Mary-William Baines and Deborah H. Lee in Westport, Ireland.
HILLPOINTE& LAKESID URS: DRIVE IN HO Mon. - Wed. 9 am - 5 pm Thurs. & Fri. 9 am - 6 pm ATM Open 24hrs
CONVENIENCE YOU CAN COUNT ON Our values of courtesy, promptness, reliability and security have remained unchanged since 1919, however the products and services we offer have continually improved to meet the needs of every customer. Whether you’ve banked with us for years or are new to the community, Farmers Bank is here for you. Hillpoint Branch 3100 Godwin Blvd. • Suffolk VA 23434 Lakeside Branch 1008 W. Washington St. • Suffolk, VA 23434
FARMERS BANK Since 1919
www.farmersbankva.com • 757-242-6111
18 suffolk living
Paradise
on the
James
Piers along backyards in Respass Beach highlight the area's waterman history.
suffolk living 19
Story by Phyllis Speidell Photos by John H. Sheally II
F
or decades, Respass Beach has seemed far removed from its neighboring Churchland, Harbour View and the high speed I-664 in North Suffolk. Folks well past their childhood still speak nostalgically of her sandy beaches and shallow waters that were wade-able almost halfway across the James River. They remember stands of pines, cedars and hollies thick with wildlife. The river and creeks were full of fish — flounder big as a cooler lid, they say — as well as oysters and crabs that could be scooped up by the dozen. They remember
the Saunders’ peach orchard just off Respass Beach Road and the flock of peacocks whose screeching carried throughout the community. When Portsmouth artist J. Robert Burnell was a youngster battling scarlet fever, he dreamed about the cold clear well water from a pitcher pump near the beach. Respass Beach was an oasis for Burnell and others who loved its privacy and lifestyle. “It was a paradise,” agreed Ralph Hicks, a retired banker living in Virginia Beach. Hicks was growing up in Cradock when
his father, a foreman at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, partnered with a coworker, Morris McCarty, to buy 85 acres of land at Respass Beach. In the late 1940s, $15,000 was a hefty price, but Hicks and McCarty saw potential in the property. They divided the riverfront into 18 residential lots lining an unpaved road. They sold the first lot, a few years later, for $2,000. They rented out rowboats with cinder block anchors and built a concession stand for beachgoers. Burnell remembers “Old Man Respass” who ran an earlier snack stand See PARADISE page 20
20 suffolk living
Residents placed boulders at the end of Respass Beach Road because drivers kept running into yards in the area. PARADISE continued from page 19
in the 1930s. Hicks remembers the beach sand as “so terrific some people tried to steal it.” The partners later leased the boat operation to a man named Barnes who also bought property there. Both Burnell and Hicks recollect an oyster shack, once owned by the J.H. Miles & Company Norfolk seafood dealer, on pilings in the waist-high waters of the James and the popular, albeit illegal, “jalopy track” that staged weekend races not far from the riverfront. Eventually, Nansemond County wanted to buy the racetrack to build homes for lower income families, Hicks said, adding that the decision to give up some of the area’s privacy was a real dilemma for his dad, who finally agreed to sell the land. “My father built a cottage, the Pappy Shack, there on Streeter Creek,” Hicks said “Still near and dear to me and my kids, it was only about 15 x 15 feet, almost surrounded by water and had a little pier where you could fish and crab. We used to have oyster roasts and went rabbit
and squirrel hunting. We gathered mistletoe and holly and I peddled holly wreaths door-to-door every Christmas for spending money. ” An anti-aircraft artillery unit operated in Respass Beach during World War II. Burnell said his Boy Scout troop often camped near the battery. After the war, the government left the deactivated battery in place, and the senior Hicks opened a restaurant — Hampton Roads Terrace — in the building. The business was short-lived, however, Ralph Hicks said. One Sunday about 1950, the Nansemond County sheriff ordered a glass of wine with his meal. When he was served, the sheriff shut down the restaurant as being in violation of local liquor laws. Elgie Furman Lilly, 91, remembers Respass Beach as “hidden for a long time and a very unique community of the haves, have-nots and don’t-cares.” Lilly was a timekeeper in the Norfolk Naval Shipyard where she met her husband, Jack Furman. Furman came from generations of
watermen, so it wasn’t surprising that his parents, John and Lillian Furman, were among the several families buying multiple lots in Repass Beach in the mid- 1950s. Shortly afterward, the younger Furmans decided to build a house next door, also on the riverfront. “The lot was a wilderness that we cleared by hand with dynamite — it took a year,” Lilly said. “Jack went on night shift so he could work on the house in daylight. He built a solid home — three bedrooms, living room, dining room, kitchen and bath — standard for the time.” Children were safe to roam in Repass Beach, she said, but the dirt streets were often muddy, so residents carried shovels in their cars. John Furman was still oystering and, along with friends, spread oyster shells on the road. Residents picked up their mail in Churchland and sent their children to Nansemond County schools. They shot skeet in their backyards, fished, boated and relished their privacy. “It really was a paradise,” said Burnell, who See PARADISE page 21
suffolk living 21 PARADISE continued from page 20
From top, Bobby Burnell, left, and Jackie Taylor, right, talk about Respass Beach then and now; Ralph Hicks reminisces about Respass Beach; Keith Horton remembers Respass Beach of the past.
remembers spending time there as a child and later, too, when he was married to Lilly’s sister. Burnell’s son, Rick, also remembers Respass Beach well — John and Lillian Furman were his grandparents. “I spent the first six years of my life with my grandparents, living in Respass Beach, and later I still spent a lot of time there,” he said. “The best fishing was after dark, so I would go out with a lantern and a basket roped to my waist. I carried a net and speared flounder and softshell crabs.” John Furman, Jack Furman’s son, keeps an early Burnell painting in his Portsmouth office. The scene of a Respass Beach waterman working on his boat in the spring triggers memories of growing up there. “The greatest thing about living there was being able to play on and in the water,” he said. “I went out with my father oystering and fishing. I would cull. He probably made more selling seafood than working in the shipyard.” Hurricanes were hard on the community, sometimes lifting large boats from yard to yard. “We used to make our pier from whatever washed up after a storm,” he said “When the Ash Wednesday Storm buried my father’s boat in sand, his shipyard friends dug out the boat and fixed it all up. They didn’t want to lose their seafood supply.” The Furman family also remembers when a 60-foot whale stranded in the shallow beachfront waters. Jackie Taylor moved to Respass Beach in 1996 and remembers when the roads were finally paved; the grateful neighbors threw a party to thank the contractors. Now several times a day, he bikes the 8/10-mile circuit around Bay Circle, often meeting walkers and runners on the way. The face of the Respass Beach changed again as more newcomers fell in love with the view they describe as seeing forever — eight clear miles to the northeast with nothing in the way. Keith Horton, president of the Holly Acres, Respass Beach Civic League, and his wife, Peggy, moved into their riverfront home on July 1, 2006, after buying the lot and clearing the small home there that had once belonged to the Swindell family. “From the back yard you can see two bridge-tunnels, Hampton, Newport News, Portsmouth, Norfolk and the shipyard in Newport News, “ he said. “We watched the USS George H.W. Bush under construction and while we watched the history of the Battle of the Monitor and the Merrimac on television, we could look out the window to where it all happened.” “This is the friendliest neighborhood I’ve ever lived in — a mix of individuals and backgrounds,” Horton added. “Neighbors want to keep this place the way it is — one way in and one way out.” See PARADISE page 22
22 suffolk living PARADISE continued from page 21
The Respass Mystery
J. Robert Burnell was 8 years old when he met “Old Man” Respass. Now 80 years later, he, like everyone else we asked, cannot remember the first name of the man for whom the area is named. Gwynn Henderson, a historian and genealogist from Gwynn’s Island and a Respess family descendent, has tracked her family history for years. The search has been complicated by the loss of Mathews County records during the Civil War and the inconsistent spellings of the Respess name since the earliest record she found — a 1704 mention of a Christopher Rispus in Gloucester County. She learned that while most of the Respess family remained in Northampton and Mathews counties, some ventured to Surry County and North Carolina. Henderson said she would not be surprised if “Old Man” Repass was somehow connected to the Surry County branch of the family.
Above, "Pappy Shack" by J. Robert Burnell. Below is Burnell's first oil painting, also portraying a Respass Beach landmark.
suffolk living 23
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!
24 suffolk living
The Perfect Solution For Keeping Your Suffolk Business Clean.
Downtown Suffolk 102 Western Ave. Suffolk, VA 23434 (757) 539-7695
“Where we treat you like family!” Ralph L. Howell, Jr., DDS | R. Leroy Howell, DDS C. Danielle Howell, DDS | Marvin G. Sagun, DDS Ryan C. Dodge, DDS www.howell.dental
Harbour View
5837 Harbour View Blvd. Suffolk, VA 23435 (757) 686-3636
suffolk living 25
S E N TA R A NOR FOLK GE NE R A L HOS PI TA L
THREE TOP 50 NATIONALLY RANKED PROGRAMS Sentara considers it a privilege and an honor to continue to bring our community high quality health care every day. Sentara Norfolk General Hospital has been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top 50 nationally ranked hospital in three specialties: Cardiology & Heart Surgery, Diabetes & Endocrinology and Nephrology. Thank you to all the providers, nurses and clinical care teams at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital and Eastern Virginia Medical School for your ongoing commitment to the patients and families you see each day.
To learn more, visit sentara.com/usnews
26 suffolk living
Peanut Fest back for 41st year Story by Tracy Agnew
I
t’s equal parts peanuts and shrimp, games and rides, music and vendors, fun and fall. Suffolk’s favorite autumn festival will return Oct. 4-7 at the Suffolk Executive Airport, and this year’s schedule is sure to amuse all kinds of folks. The fun kicks off that Thursday, when the festival is open from 2 to 10:30 p.m., along with all of its amusements and games. The Suffolk Ruritan Club Shrimp Feast takes place that day from 3 to 7 p.m. Tickets are $35 a person and feature all-you-can-eat shrimp, barbecue and all the fixins. Tickets are sold in advance only and can be purchased at Bennett’s Creek Pharmacy, Line-X of Suffolk, Cross Realty, Virginia Commonwealth Bank, BB&T Bank, Ricky & Roy’s, Mike Duman Auto Sales, Suffolk BBQ, Quality Cleaners, Citizens Bank of Windsor, Ricky’s Custom Carts, Major Signs, City of Suffolk Tourism and Carts Unlimited. That Friday, the festival is open from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday will be Kiddie Day in the Gooberland Family Area until noon, along with featured Senior Day activities until 1 p.m. in the Activities Tent. Friday also features the crowd favorite Demolition Derby at 7 p.m.
That Saturday will feature a Chalk Art Contest at 10 a.m., a cornhole tournament at 1 p.m., the Mud Jam at 1 p.m., the Peanut Butter Sculpture Contest at 2 p.m., and two Hot Wing Eating Contests at 4 and 6 p.m. Fireworks will round out the night at 8. Sunday will feature the Peanut Fest Motorcycle Rally and the Gospel Showcase. Entertainment for the festival has yet to be announced but frequently features country acts on the main stage as well as a variety of regional and locally famous acts on the Harvest Family Stage and in the Peanut Lounge. Admission to the festival is $10 per person, per entry or $30 for a four-day pass per person. Children 10 and under are free. Thursday is Carload Day, where all passengers legally seated in the vehicle receive admission and all-you-can-ride wristbands for up to eight people for $40. On Sunday, military and dependents with military ID get $5 admission. Sunday is also Wristband Day, where wristbands are $30 per person. Parking is free. Visit suffolkpeanutfest.com for more information.
Midway rides and games for all ages are one of the main attractions for Peanut Fest.
suffolk living 27
The Mud Jam has become one of the main items of Saturday entertainment at the Peanut Fest.
www.nansemondvet.com
AAHA-Certified Animal Hospital Offering friendly, full service veterinary care since 1938. We also offer boarding and grooming! Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sat. 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. 110 Kensington Boulevard, Suffolk, VA Next to the Suffolk YMCA
As your love grows, so can your diamonds.
Trusted Investment Advice — Custom Financial Solutions — Exceptional Service — Local Suffolk Advisor David A. Love Senior Vice President, Investments (757) 539-5355 dlove@investdavenport.com investdavenport.com/davidlove
In house Jewelry design, repairs, personalized gifts & engraving
Est: 1991 Family Owned & Operated
LOCALS CHOICE
LOCALS CHOICE
2016
2017
757.934.8101
1411 N. Main St., Suffolk, VA 23434
330 West Constance Road, Suite 200 | Suffolk, Virginia 23434 Davenport & Company LLC Member: NYSE•FINRA•SIPC
28 suffolk living
suffolk scene
Duck Pluck Residents competed to have the “top ducks” plucked from a kiddie pool on July 20 at Bennett’s Creek Park for the annual Duck Pluck while listening to the Deloreans play live on stage. The event was meant to raise awareness of National Night Out and give away prizes. PHOTOS BY KELLIE ADAMSON
Leon Cain, 2
Nathan Adams, 1
Gavin Crandell, 2
suffolk living 29
Independence Day Suffolk’s Parks and Recreation put on a party at Constant’s Wharf to celebrate the Fourth of July featuring food, music and fireworks. The warm weather cooled down in time for families to enjoy fireworks over the Nansemond River. PHOTOS BY KELLIE ADAMSON
suffolk scene
Mike Parker
SANTA AND MRS. CLAUS
Justin Roberts, Jayme Guiney and Haylie Guiney, 5
Shyazia Lee, 11, and Raniuah Bond, 5
Rito Baca, Heather Baca, Taylor Baca, 10, Savannah Baca, 11 and Rito Baca II, 3
30 suffolk living
suffolk scene
Second Saturdays Families enjoyed festivities throughout downtown Suffolk for the July 14 kickoff to the summer’s Second Saturdays. Drivers revved their engines in a Morgan Memorial Library car show, children leaped into bounce houses at the Seaboard Station Railroad Museum and the Suffolk Art League held an open members’ show at the Bosley Avenue gallery. PHOTOS BY ALEX PERRY
Professional Santa Claus Kenny Hydock
Nathan, 6, and Ellieahna, 4, Hamlin
Sarah Lopez and her children Theodore, 3, Adrian, 3, and Gabriel, 6
Ike Hardy, Dominick Hardy, 7, Anastasia Hardy, 9, and Ralph Ashburn, 5
Daniel, 4, and Katy, 11, Gwaltney
Steel drummer Ju Ju
suffolk living 31
Chili Cook Off Restauranteurs and hobbyists gathered at Lake Prince Woods for their annual Chili Cook Off on Aug. 28. The event was held to raise money for the Western Tidewater Walk to End Alzheimer’s. PHOTOS BY KELLIE ADAMSON
Beth Howell
Ashleigh Meyer
Jeremy Brandon and Chase Babb
Jimmy Newsome and Mary Frances Newsome
Taylor Bradshaw, 9, and Harper Bradshaw
Mary Heimer, Ray Heimer and Vivian Simpson
suffolk scene
32 suffolk living
IS CAR CARE MONTH AT AAA
OCTOBER
FULL SERVICE M A I N T E N A N C E & R E PA I R
MEMBER-ONLY SPECIAL AT AAA CAR CARE CENTERS IN OCTOBER!
Free Auto Health Checks for Members Batteries • Tires • Fluids Every Wednesday in October
We’ll cover the cost of your appraisal! Sometimes it takes a little extra help to get the perfect home. For a limited time, BayPort will cover the cost of your appraisal giving you peace of mind. Focus on what matters most, with a little help from BayPort.
Visit us in Suffolk at 3529 Bridge Road or one of our other Hampton Roads locations. (Chesapeake, Hampton, Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Williamsburg)
(757) 963-1222 • AAA.com/CarCare Plus, everyone is welcome to our Annual Car Care Clinic October 27 10am-2pm at the AAA Corporate Office in Virginia Beach. Details at AAA.com/CarCare.
bayportcu.org Membership eligibility required. Certain restrictions may apply. BayPort will reimburse appraisal cost up to $550 at closing. Offer valid May 1 through October 31, 2018. This credit union is federally insured by the NCUA.
BAY_0055_Mortgage_3.7x10_FC_April18_FINAL2.indd 1
5/7/18 2:54 PM
suffolk living 33
Help us bring more high-quality, faith-based health care to Suffolk
For nearly 20 years, Bon Secours Health Center at Harbour View has served the people of Suffolk—treating their illnesses, healing their wounds, deepening their faith and cheering them on the road to recovery. In order to meet the growing needs of our community, we plan to build a new hospital at Harbour View— but we need your help to get it done. As part of the Certificate for Public Need (COPN) process, we are asking all members of our community to voice their support for the new hospital. Together, we can bring more access to highquality, faith-based care for the people of Suffolk and beyond.
How to get involved: 1. Write a letter of support addressed to: Paul Gaden, CEO Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center 3636 High Street Portsmouth, VA 23707 2. Email a letter of support to SupportMyHospital@bshsi.org 3. Sign the petition at BonSecours.com/harbourviewhospital *Please include the COPN number VA-8389 with all correspondence.
18BSR1691_HR_HarbourView_COPN_PrintAd_SuffolkLiving_FullPage_r1.indd 1
7/19/18 2:00 PM
34 suffolk living
Last edition’s Where Am I?
Tired of foot or ankle pain?
The old Shell gas pump in our JulyAugust issue may have been too easy. Twenty-two of our readers guessed the correct location — beside the old Gwaltney Store at the intersection of Godwin where am I? Boulevard and I Kings Highway in Chuckatuck. They all have bragging rights, but only Susan Blair was chosen at random to receive a $25 gift card. See page 23 for this month's challenge!
For all your foot and ankle needs, Dr. Scott Carrington with Atlantic Foot & Ankle Center is here for you.
suffolk living 23
Conditions treated and services offered include:
Scott C. Carrington, DPM
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.
• Foot and ankle reconstruction • Sports related foot and ankle injuries • Ankle arthritis • Ankle arthroscopy • Total ankle replacements
Atlantic Foot & Ankle Center
So, if you know where this is, let us know. If you’re right, you could be a winner. Go out and enjoy Suffolk!
3060 Godwin Boulevard Suffolk, VA 23434 (757) 935-5320
BayviewPhysicians.com
Suffolk Living All Year Bayview Physicians Ad: 3.7 X 4.93 inches
Subscribe and you can get Suffolk Living delivered to your door six times a year. Don’t miss out. suffolklivingmag.com
su ffo lkl ivi
ng ma g.c
su ff ol
om
kl iv in
gm ag
Six times a year in Suffolk
for
.c om
Out-of-state subscriptions
suffolk summer an d s, mu t ts l ma rk et co nt ro re mo te pl an es
powwowAndy Damia ni TracTors, a Tribe and a canoe ride Th su ff e be sT o f o lk li v in g A Tv An Tr A il bl A ze D september/ r
ust jul y/a ug
l. 3, no . 4 20 12 • vo
$20
october 2012 vol. 3, no. 5
ja nu ar
y/ fe br
ua ry
20 16
• vo l. 7, no . 1
for
$25
suffolk living 35
scrapbook
GOOBER COOK-OFF: These contestants were winners in the first Peanut Fest Gourmet Goober Cook-off held in 2002. From left to right are Wilma Hylton, of Chesapeake, winner in appetizers and sides for her broccoli salad; Kadi English, of Suffolk, winner in pies and cakes for her peanutty peanut-butter brownies; Susan Pendleton, of Suffolk, winner in cookies and confections for peanut-butter truffles; and Betty Jo English, of Suffolk, winner in entrĂŠe for peanut-crusted pork with popovers and peanut gravy. Patrick Evans-Hylton photo
WE GET RESULTS!
W NE
ICE
LD
PR
SO
GATESVILLE
Lovingly restored home with 3 BR, 2.5 Baths features original flooring, custom kitchen & more on over 3 acres in Gatesville, NC!
FOREST HILL CRESCENT
KINGS FORK ROAD
KILBY SHORES
$224,900
$357,900
$179,900
Quality built, spacious 3 BR, 2.5 Bath brick ranch on Stunning 3 BR, 2.5 Bath ranch home on 2.17 Charming, remodeled 3 BR, 1 Bath brick ranch on huge fenced wooded lot features huge den with stone fireplace, beautiful peaceful acres. Features huge screened porch, corner lot! Many newer features including roof, HVAC, and hardwood floors, private patio courtyard, and more! spacious kitchen, and much more! plumbing. Enjoy reading or entertaining on your back patio!
$324,000
LD
LD
SO
RIVERVIEW
Solid brick ranch in beautiful setting! Home features 2 BR, 2 Baths, eat-in kitchen, hardwood floors, and new roof!
SOUTHSIDE MANOR
Spacious 4/5 BR, 2 Bath brick ranch with huge 4 car attached garage on 3/4 acre lot!
$118,000
NORTHGATE
LAKESIDE
$285,000
$639,900
Lovely 3 BR, 3.5 Bath home on large lot in quiet Solid brick 12 unit investment property! Each unit cul-de-sac. Fenced backyard has spacious deck features 2 BR, 1 Bath, hardwood or ceramic tile floors with cabana house & hot tub! & kitchen with breakfast/dining area. Huge back yard!
D
R
ONT
ER C
UND
$184,900 T AC
SO
SOL
HOLY NECK
SKEETERTOWN ROAD
IVOR
FRANKLIN
$289,900
$220,000
$349,900
$265,000
Beautiful Cape Cod with 4 BR, 2 Baths on 3 acres in Well built 3 BR, 1.5 Bath brick ranch on large corner Like new quality built home with 3 BR, 2 Baths on 13.68 quiet Beautiful 4 BR, 4 Bath all brick cape cod with in-ground Holland! First floor master bedroom, spacious finished lot! Large 2 car detached garage. Easy access to rolling fenced acres! Extras include 5 stall horse barn & tack room, pool on large corner lot! Master BR on first floor, 4 zoned room over garage, expansive deck, & inground pool! downtown Suffolk and all of Hampton Roads! detached workshop and more! Quiet country living at its best! HVAC system, new pool liner, landscaped yard & more!
LOCALS CHOICE
2017
330 W Constance Road, Suffolk
home@choreyrealty.net
2018
(757) 539-7451
suffolkspecialist.com