Progress Edition 2021

The

Hidden Treasures

Of Western Tidewater Published as a supplement to The Tidewater News Wednesday, March 31, 2021

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The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

Progress 2021 • 3

THANK YOU

Publisher’s Notebook

Going on a treasure hunt

Our area is home to a multitude of treasures, most particularly its people.

Being a relatively small community, especially when compared to some of our larger neighbors, such as Suffolk to the east or Richmond to the north, it’s easy to understand why some residents might think they know everyone and all that the area has to offer. But do they really?

for your continued support of our local businesses “Keep It Local means supporting our neighbors and keeping them in business, keeping our community alive.”

Within the pages of this year’s annual Progress edition, Hidden Treasures, we suspect you will recognize many of the faces and perhaps even know some of their stories. At the same time, we hope you will find at least a few surprises, Hidden Treasures, if you will and say to yourself, “I didn’t know that!”

We invite you to come along with us on a treasure hunt, as we interview just a few of our areas treasures and see what surprises are in store for you.

Betty J. Ramsey is publisher of The Tidewater News, she can be reached via email at Betty.Ramsey@TheTidewaterNews.com or by calling 757-562-3187.

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Progress 2021

Betty J. Ramsey Publisher Stephen H. Cowles Staff Writer Stephen Faleski Staff Writer Renee Lassiter Contributor Loretta Lomax Designer Mitzi Lusk Advertising Director

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

Progress 2021 • 5

CONTENTS Frank A. Davis puts enthusiasm for photography to good use.... 6 Merle Monahan: Ivor correspondent .................................................. 8 Crystal Joyner has always been community-minded ................. 10 Ellis Wright Jr. loves to share his Native American heritage ....... 12 Ricky Goodwyn Jr. has love for music ..............................................13 Michelle Buchanan launched toy drive in memory of state trooper .20 Renee Lassiter keeping Southampton informed ........................... 21 Ricky Clemons publishes new book, album to inspire ................ 22 Melissa Cornwell makes time for what is important .................... 23 Teresa ‘Moon Star’ Preston contributes to tribe’s goals ..............26 Rev. Warren Johnson: From the pulpit to the stage .....................28 William Lamb Howell keeps peace in Cheoenhaka tribe ............30

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The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

Capturing the special moments

Progress 2021 • 7

Frank A. Davis putsFrank enthusiasm A. Davis puts enthusiasm for photography to good use for photography to good use tor a few years ago, Davis has remained active with his photography as well as traveling with his wife in their RV. They’ve been to all 50 states, and even spent time overseas (England and France) and have used their recreational vehicle in this country.

To otherwise keep himself occupied, Davis has been taking pictures for Franklin City Public School activities, including sports events.

“I love sports,” he said, and mentioned taking game shots for VSU, Chowan University and, at one time, was the main photographer for St. Paul’s College in Lawrenceville.

“Photography is just something I love,” said Davis. “I never seem to get tired of it.”

By Stephen H. Cowles FRANKLIN Is there anyone in Franklin who’s not familiar with Frank A. Davis?

Most people will likely remember him from his years as director (twice!) of the Franklin Parks and Recreation Department, and numerous residents will also recognize he has been a familiar sight at sporting events, as well as city activities such as the Christmas parade. Up and down the fields or streets he’ll roam taking photograph after photograph, so many of which appeared in The Tidewater News. Oh, and let’s not forget the images he’s captured at the Summer Jam trips to amusement parks, the seaside or our nation’s capital.

“My momma was into photography. She had one of these little kits that allowed you to develop and print. I was in sixth or seventh grade, piddling with it. I learned how to do it.

I’d photograph friends.”

Then his film and prints would be processed in the food pantry that doubled as a darkroom.

He wanted to carry that interest into the Air Force.

“I wanted to be a photographer on a plane and take overhead shots,” said Davis. But that was not to be because a physical exam showed he was partially color-blind. His only other choices then were either “cops or cooks,” so he chose the latter. “I couldn’t boil water, but I learned.”

Following military service, Davis went to Virginia State University on a G.I. bill.

Thinking about how to put that to work, he said, “I really thought about it, what in life I really like to do. I remembered the playgrounds in my childhood, and so majored in recreation. I breezed through!

Every time opportunity knocked, I answered.”

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

Everyone in the Franklin Super Summer Jam of 2019 gathered for a picture in front of the White House. Frank Davis usually accompanied the groups over the years and chronicled their travels in pictures, many of which appeared in The Tidewater News. - Submitted by Frank A. Davis

BUILT FOR ADVENTURE. BUILT FORD TOUGH.® Almeta and Frank Davis by the entrance to Windsor Castle. After having visited all 50 states of the U.S., they turned their attention to England and France. - Submitted by Frank A. Davis He’s been director of recreation in Charles City County, taught school for a year and then a program superintendent. Much later, Davis tried for a long time to get into Chesterfield County as an athletic manager.

“When you’ve a got a job, you can see jobs.

I became VSU’s director of student activities, just like that,” said Davis, snapping his fingers three times.

After working in the Office on Youth in Surry County, he landed the position in Franklin.

During his tenure, programs for senior citizens, as well as improvements to parks and playgrounds, have been started and achieved.

“Every summer as a child I would travel. I’ve

always loved to travel,” said Davis. “One of the things I did was to make sure kids could travel as well. D.C. Charlottesville, the aquarium in Baltimore. Monticello, Nags Head … .”

Being the parks and recreation director wasn’t all fun and games.

“It was time-consuming. There were a lot of meetings. I’m very thankful to my wife, Almeta, to bear with me, knowing the amount of time I had to put in. I’m very thankful to God for blessing me. I’ve always had good people around me.”

Davis continued, “The story I like to tell kids out of college is ‘Find where you need to be.

Find what you really love to do.”

Since retiring a second time as parks direc-

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8 • Progress 2021

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

Merle Monahan: Ivor correspondent

By Stephen Faleski IVOR Merle Monahan wasn’t looking for a journalism job when she published her first story in The Tidewater News in June 1989: a feature on her then-employer, R.M. Felts Packing Co., and the company’s tradition of giving employees the entire week of the Fourth of July off.

The tradition, as she reported, had begun under the company’s founder, R. Marvis Felts Sr., who was deceased at the time the story came out, but continues to this day under the company’s present owner, Felts’ son, Bob. The next week, she brought another story to the newspaper office.

“For the life of me, I cannot remember what this one was about, but Mr. [publisher emeritus F. Hanes] Byerly liked it and took me on as a correspondent,” Monahan said.

She’d continue in that role for the next 31 years. By the time the now-octogenarian retired in September 2020, she’d worked under four different publishers.

“Journalism itself hasn’t changed that much; it’s still who, what, when and where,” Monahan said. “I had two rules that I never broke – I always checked my information for accuracy and I would never write anything that would hurt anyone. There’s one thing that has made a big change for the better in publishing the newspaper, though. It is the computer … I remember when I first started as a correspondent, I typed all my stories on the typewriter at my home in Ivor, then drove to The TN to submit them. Now, I write and submit all my stories, as well as photos via email.”

Monahan’s interest in writing began in high school.

“I even had one teacher tell me later that she knew I’d become a writer,” Monahan said.

But she didn’t pursue it until after she’d

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

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Merle’s interest in writing began in high school. She published her first story in The Tidewater News in 1989. - Photo by Stephen Faleski married.

“One day in a bookstore, I happened to see the magazine ‘Writers Digest,’” she said.

“I was completely hooked, bought books on writing and enrolled in college and vo-tech classes, anything that I thought would teach me the fundamentals. During this time, I wrote and submitted a few articles and I actually sold a couple short pieces to magazines.

Then, after my husband passed away, I got a job in the office of Felts Packing. That’s when I learned of the company’s week-long 4th of July holiday and decided to try my hand at the newspaper. You can say, reporter was an afterthought.”

In the early 1990s, Monahan was promoted to part-time staff writer, and was working a second part-time job as the town clerk of Ivor,

but “both jobs were just too much,” Monahan said. “I asked to be cut back to contributing writer.”

Since then, she’s worked out of her home in Ivor – covering her hometown.

“Ivor is on the edge of Southampton County and very seldom got any newspaper coverage until I started writing,” Monahan said.

“People are already telling me that I”m missed.”

But the COVID-19 pandemic has hindered her ability to continue her work.

“I love getting out, meeting new people and I am so tired of staying in the house,” Monahan said.

“I am in the high-risk group to catch the virus, though, so better safe than sorry. But I plan to continue writing as long as I’m able.”

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10 • Progress 2021

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

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By Stephen H. Cowles Just about every organization has a chief of one kind or another who leads people in whatever is the group’s purpose. In turn, there are the individuals that follow and carry out various necessary functions.

Crystal Joyner is a local example of the latter.

One way she serves the Nottoway tribe, to which she belongs, is being its secretary. That work began around 2008-09. Joyner also helps the Virginia Nottoway Indian Circle and Square Foundation, a nonprofit based in Capron.

There’s also the tribe’s Community House and Interpretive Center.

“We do outreach and look for ways to expand the tribe and educate people,” she said.

“History books are not inclusive of Native Americans. We [the Nottoways) never lived in teepees, we only occasionally wear feathers in our hair.”

At the powwows, which usually take place in neighboring Surry County, Joyner interacts with the participating vendors who bring Native American crafts and displays.

“I’m responsible for hospitality at powwows to make them feel welcome,” she said, and mentioned that one woman annually buys the pottery handmade by Lynette Allston, chief of the Nottoways.

“They [the tribesmen] are your family,” said Joyner. “Behind every great leader is a great pack of people.”

She and fellow tribesmen are a regular presence in the Franklin Fall Festival, Heritage Day

Progress 2021 • 11

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Crystal Joyner, center, with Chief Lynette Alston, chief of the Nottoway Indian Tribe, at the booth during Heritage Day 2018 in Courtland.

The woman at right is unidentified. - Photo submitted by Anne W. Bryant and Down Home Day. Joyner also interacted with students from other countries at an international festival in past years.

“I think when you’re approachable, people can come to you.”

She also helps to promote the fine arts and education locally by serving as treasurer for the Rawls Museum Arts in Courtland.

“I became involved through Lynette, who is board president. We started going to events such as the fundraisers. She recommended me. I keep accounts to make sure we stay on top.”

Such activities are nothing new to Joyner, who is also chairwoman of a Boys and Girls Club.

“I’ve always been involved in community. We grew up community-oriented,” she said, referring to her sister., Stacie Joyner-Pettaway.

“I have been a lifeguard and pool manager at the city swimming pool, and also teach swimming. All in trying to be a positive role model. Whatever your dream is, you can do it.

Don’t let your current surroundings limit you.”

As a counselor, Joyner learned that often people just need somebody to believe in them. She remembered that one of her clients has become “awesome” since graduating from high school.

“My sister and I are extremely fortunate we have parents [Carolyn and the late Willie A. Joyner Jr.] who always supported us. They would say, ‘You do your very best, and become totally accomplished in what you want to do.’”

To learn more about the tribe, visit www.nottowayindians.org.

To discover the Rawls Museum Arts, go to www.rawlsarts.com.

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The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

Ellis Wright loves to share his Native American heritage Vice chief dedicated to promoting Cheroenhaka (Nottoway) tribe

Progress 2021 • 13

For the love of music

By Stephen Faleski

By Stephen H. Cowles Vice Chief Ellis “Soaring Eagle” Wright Jr. is fully aware of his heritage.

“I’ve always known I was a member of the Cheroenhaka (Nottoway) Indian Tribe, which reorganized in 2002. Growing up, it was kind of frustrating the way people reacted to us — like we were outcasts, that you didn’t really exist.”

In spite of past work established by the late Dr. Walter A. Plecker, he can trace the lineage through both sides of his family — his mother, Grace, 101, and late father.

According to online sources, Plecker was the first director of Virginia’s Bureau of Vital Statistics. During his reign in the early to mid-20th century, he decreed that there were only whites or Blacks, and even got that thinking legalized in the Racial Integrity Act of 1924. All that proved an obstacle for so many Virginians in realizing and proving they were in part or whole Native Americans.

For the tribe revival, he said, “It was just three of us at first, Walt, William Lamb Howell and myself. We discussed what we wanted to do and how to proceed. We had to gather information that could prove what we say. Once there was a paper trail, no one could deny who we said what we were. People have been coming up to us [about this]. Always, everywhere we go.”

Wright mentioned that his wife is connected to the tribe through him, but that she herself has discovered a heritage in the Nansemond Indians of Suffolk.

“We have quite a bit of history you can trace,” he said. “We’re split off from the Nottoway and

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

In back, Vice Chief Ellis “Soaring Eagle” Wright Jr. accompanies Chief Walt “Red Hawk” Brown during the grand entry at a powwow of the Cheroenhaka (Nottoway) Indian Tribe. - Submitted by Karen “Running Moon” Barrett related to at least three other tribes.”

As the vice chief, his general duties include serving as one of two treasurers and coordinating the summer and fall powwows (“I am in charge of the circle. That is mine.”). Wright does outreach for the gathers, handles contracts, collects money, maintains the tribal land and helps guide school students.

“I’m really excited. We love to share,” he said.

“The powwow is our homecoming. We meet and greet and exchange ideas. This is how we gather. This is what we do. A lot of people have questions. We’re dedicated to continue, to make progress. Hopefully, we’re doing enough.”

Ellis “Soaring Eagle” Wright Jr. performs a solo dance during a powwow.

HARRISONBURG Opera singer Ricky Goodwyn Jr., now a thirdyear student at James Madison University, has been singing for as long as he can remember.

“Growing up as I did, you did not hear of classical, let alone opera music,” said Goodwyn, whose childhood included frequent moves and two years of homelessness as a teenager from 2012 through 2014 – during which he shared a single motel room with his mother and two sisters following his parents’ separation.

“Either we were staying with family or we were staying in a motel,” Goodwyn said. “Sharing a room with people and no personal space and/or privacy, you start to notice things about people.”

While in ninth grade at Kings Fork High School in Suffolk, he began taking voice lessons with Susan Phillips – and realizing his passion for music was taking him in a different direction than many of his high school classmates.

“I wanted to sit in the music room while they wanted to be outside playing football,” Goodwyn said.

Goodwyn briefly played high school football too, but “the most time I spent was in my music,” he said.

By 10th grade, he’d transferred to Franklin High School and gained admission to the Governor’s School for the Arts, where he auditioned for a school opera production and, to his surprise, was given one of the leading roles.

“We still had homework and certain things that were expected of us,” Goodwyn recalls of his time at GSA. “We were still in some high school mode but with just a tad bit more freedom.

There was a mall near, so we could go to the mall.”

After transferring from Franklin to Windsor High School for his senior year, he continued his studies at the Governor’s School with voice instructor Shelly Milam, who’s now vocal director for GSA. Graduating with dual diplomas from GSA and

While in ninth grade at Kings Fork High School in Suffolk Ricky realized his passion for music was taking him in a different direction than many of his classmates. - Submitted Windsor High in 2017, he was set to attend JMU on a full scholarship that fall, and had been in the midst of packing when he received a phone call informing him his scholarship had been canceled due to inaccuracies in his Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Not long after, he found himself homeless again – and was taken in by Mary Cole, who spearheads a classical music program at Smithfield’s Christ Episcopal Church known as Sundays

at Four.

She arranged for him to give his first-ever solo recital in the church that August and mentored him through the process of regaining admission to JMU for the following academic year.

“On the day he was to sing, Ricky was nowhere in sight,” Cole recalls. “He arrived almost at the time he was to go on to sing his 15 minSEE GOODWYN, PAG 24

14 • Progress 2021

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

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Woman’s vision yields joy for years

Progress 2021 • 21

Renee Lassiter keeping Southampton informed County native has been on go since graduation

Michelle Buchanan launched toy drive in memory of state trooper

By Stephen H. Cowles

By Stephen H. Cowles For several years, Michelle Buchanan has been involved with the Trooper Hill Toy Drive, a project that helps to ensure underprivileged children in Western Tidewater enjoy a Christmas worth celebrating.

The namesake, Robert A. Hill Sr., was a Virginia State Trooper that was killed in the line of duty the day after Thanksgiving 2006. He had been struck by an automobile right after finishing a traffic stop.

Buchanan, who was his real estate agent, remembered that just a couple of weeks beforehand the two of them had a conversation about helping people at Christmastime.

“He already had names of people he was going to be assisting; we both have a heart for the community. He had already started a Santa Claus time a couple of years ago at a Fraternal Order of Police lodge.”

Right after Hill died, she felt compelled to carry out his holiday plans for others and immediately called Social Services because “everyone was so distraught. It was just really a hard time for the community, especially his fellow officers.”

“I really have a vision for this,” said Buchanan, who first asked his widow’s blessing. “Melissa said, ‘Absolutely. Go with it. Run with it.’ We served 35 children the first year.”

She first worked out of her home, and then moved to the Sportsman’s Club the next year.

She and other volunteers would shop and wrap, but by the fourth year, decided to make it a holiday shopping experience for the parents so they can pick out toys.

Over the years, it grows and grows and grows

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

Second from left is Michelle Buchanan with her children, from left, Jordan, Taylor-Ann, Savannah, Ty and Jaxon (in front). - Submitted [Franklin is also serviced]. We average 350 to 500 families!”

The FOP still hosts Santa Claus at the Courtland lodge and of course remembers Hill. There have been various activities and events in the effort to raise money or gather toys.

When the time comes for the toy drives, she said, “My whole family’s there, even my mom and dad. I take them with me every year. With five kids they’ve helped me set up. Now my son is a sophomore at college. I really have a good group every year.

“The best part is I have families who were helped and now help others — it’s such a blessing — they donate or volunteer.”

One of the many volunteers has been Kimberly Rideout.

“Literally she has helped me from day one,” Buchanan said. “Kimberly and I actually grew up together and went to high school together.”

Much of what is done is also performed by volunteers including local state troopers and school clubs. Most often she now just has to delegate.

Margaret Etheridge, a fellow Realtor at Rose & Womble Company, said of Buchanan, “Nothing will ever stop her drive for serving her community with this yearly endeavor, not even a pandemic.

Many children were blessed this year with her efforts together with all of those who support her in this cause.”

As agents for R&W, the two women are involved with the annual Turkey Brigade, which provides several complete turkey dinners, which are taken to the Hope Center in Franklin, packaged and hand-delivered to local residents by R&W Realtors.

When Buchanan is not involved with the toy drive, her work or family, you’ll likely find her “very involved in my church (Kingdom Impact) and the music there,” where she’s a vocalist.

BOYKINS Renee Porter Lassiter of Boykins is a real gogetter.

“I’ve always been a person looking to get something more — to make my mark,” she said during a recent interview. “Sometimes I don’t sleep, so I’m up at 3 a.m.”

In that time she could be focusing on her career or writing a cookbook, a project that’s 10 years in the making. But perhaps Lassiter is better known for establishing SoCo Informed on Facebook; there’s also Boykins Informed and Newsoms Informed. The sites include calendar events, updates and photos.

In December 2020, she organized the Circle of Trees. Families and organizations could decorate a tree that was placed in a town park.

Such service is not unusual for her. The daughter of Norman and Edna Porter said she grew up in a household “very involved in community. I probably have the most amazing faith-based family, and was taught to be grateful and be humble,” said the 1984 graduate of Southampton Academy. She went on to major in merchandising and business at Radford University and “fell into property management.”

That work and her first husband eventually took her to Muskegon, Michigan, where she also was a youth group leader, and was an interim downtown director.

Divorced in 2011, Lassiter reconnected with her first boyfriend, Clete — they had met in high school. They married two years later and came back to Boykins in 2016.

“We live in the house where he grew up,” she said.

Clete and Renee Lassiter at the premiere Circle of Trees in Boykins at Christmastime 2020. - Submitted by Renee Lassiter “I came back home four years ago as a way to give voice to people of everything what’s going on in the county,” Lassiter said, and emphasized that the site is “not there for political reasons or political gains. Overall people are very mindful. I think the readership’s up to 1,700; my goal is 10,000. I don’t charge anything for it.”

She loves the region and understands why other people want to move here.

“It’s a great little bedroom community,” said

Lassiter, whose own background includes the renowned Whitley Family. “I have a huge extended family on both sides – paternal and maternal.”

The membership has had a reunion since after the American Civil War, and has been included in Ripley’s Believe It or Not. Thinking ahead about her site, the secretary of the Cord Foundation said, “I think I could kick it up a notch if I had the time. I’m always looking for content.”

22 • Progress 2021

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

Poet translates experiences, relationships into verse, music

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

Progress 2021 • 23

‘You make time for what is important’

Ricky Clemons publishes new book, album to inspire people

By Stephen H. Cowles Although the theme for this Progress edition is “Hidden Treasures,” Ricky Clemons is actually not one to disguise or deny his talents, especially when they have been heaven-sent.

The Franklin resident has recently published a new book of poetry — “The Outer Space of God’s Love,” and also has his writings again set to music, “A Candle’s Light to Shine.”

While the title and book cover — stars in a distant nebula — might bring to mind something in the way of science fiction, Clemons’ writing is not intended to be fantastical. In the poetry, he addresses earthly concerns of racism, social injustice as well as celestial matters of loving and following his lord, Jesus Christ.

This is Clemons’ ninth published collection of poetry. In 2019, he published, “My Path is Jesus,” a collection of 283 poems about walking, talking and acting as a Christian. In 2018, it was “Seasons of My Life,” which contains 365 poems.

“The Lord inspires me to write,” he continued.

“The more that I write poems about the Lord — sometimes it can be difficult — it’s deeper, more spiritual. The Lord is drawing me closer to him through poems.”

The commitment to writing goes back to 1995 when a deacon asked him to read some of his poetry. Clemons recalled that the next night he heard a voice telling him, ‘I want you to write,’ and the call was followed.

Previous to his time in becoming a Christian, he had many personal difficulties, including substance abuse.

“That had caused me to lose my mind. I truly suffered for doing that. My lord and savior Jesus Christ gave me a second chance to believe in him and be saved,” the 62-year-old stated. “He healed my mind with good medicine and renewed my mind for me to write poetry about him.”

For the poetry, he’s been drawing from new ex-

Pictured is Melissa Cornwell with her sons, from left to right, Christopher Jr., Tristan and Sawyer.

- Submitted by Stephen Faleski Ricky’s commitment to writing goes back to 1995 when a deacon asked him to read some of his poetry. - Submitted periences in his life, including his relationships with members of the church where he worships, Capernaum Seventh-day Adventist Church in Suffolk.

“I also write based on what I read and understand about God’s word,” Clemons said.

For the music, he again turned to Michael J. Mulholland. Many years ago, Clemons had sent one of his poems, “Jesus is Our Savior,” to a company in Hollywood that turned it into a song.

About a dozen years ago, he was introduced via a mutual acquaintance to Mulholland, a singersongwriter and producer of North Liberty Record-

ing in Suffolk.

“He [Clemons] wanted to take his poems and make songs out of them. I invited him over and read thousands,” Mulholland recalled. “We sat down and looked to see how can we write a song.”“For ‘A Candle’s Light,’ there are 15 poems, or tracks, and Angel Rena Hester of Hampton was brought in as a vocalist. Clemons described the new songs as soothing.

To order any of Clemons’ poetry, go to Amazon. com or contact him at 757-535-2125. For copies of albums, contact Mulholland at mjm4332@ gmail.com or google digital record stores.

By Stephen Faleski IVOR Melissa Cornwell is a full-time registered nurse, but still manages to find time to tutor her three boys – all of whom have been enrolled in Southampton County Public Schools’ virtual learning since the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.

She also continues to lead Boy Scout Troop 17 of Franklin as its committee chairwoman.

“Sometimes there don’t seem to be enough hours in the day, but I’m passionate about my boys becoming well rounded young men and I thoroughly enjoy working with youth besides my own,” Cornwell said.

From March through November 2020, the troop continued to hold its weekly, in-person meetings in accordance with U.S. Centers for Disease Control guidelines on mask wearing and social distancing. But it’s been on pause since December when Gov. Ralph Northam issued Executive Order No. 72, which reduced the cap on social gatherings from 25 people to 10.

“Unfortunately, most of our activities have been cancelled like our summer scout camp, monthly camping trips, our annual Boston Butt fundraiser, and, most recently, we have decided to delay our yearly spaghetti dinner fundraiser in the hope it could be done later,” Cornwell said.

Cornwell got involved with Troop 17 in 2017 when her oldest son, Christopher, crossed from Cub Scouts to Boy Scouts.

“I truly believe Scouting is a wonderful organization,” she said. “You make time for what is important.”

Though its meetings and activities remain canceled until further notice, Cornwell said Troop 17’s goal for 2021 remains the same as ever: to follow Boy Scouts of America’s mission to prepare young people to make ethical and moral choices over their lifetimes by instilling in them the values of the Scout Oath and Law. “We strive to promote responsibility, respect, compassion, citizenship and leadership while having fun,” she said.

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The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

Goodwyn FROM PAGE 13

utes of solos. He greeted the audience with a nice warm personality and said, ‘I just flew back from Cincinnati with $1,000 in my pocket. I won a competition’ He had already won over his audience. Then he amazed the audience with his voice.”

During his unintended gap year between high school and college, Goodwyn continued to make a name for himself locally. He found work, a new place to live and a new voice teacher – Mary Matthews of Newport News, who offered him lessons for free and helped him organize another recital that October.

The October recital drew a standing-room-only audience and numerous contributions, Cole said.

Goodwyn now studies with voice professor whom he describes as “one of the most helpful and humble people who I know,” and the main reason he wanted to attend JMU when he’d been accepted to other colleges, including music conservatories.

“This man goes out of his way just to make sure I have everything I need and every advantage that is put there for me,” Goodwyn said.

His freshman year at JMU, Goodwyn performed as a soloist alongside two doctoral students in Joseph Haydn’s “The Creation” and in leading role and in the chorus in a production of Jake Heggie’s “Dead Man Walking,” an American opera that tells the story of a Louisiana nun who becomes the spiritual advisor to a convicted murderer on death row.

But misfortune struck Goodwyn once again in 2019 when his mother, Laquette Chante Wilson, died unexpectedly in mid-2019 of a stroke.

“This was not only traumatic, but he had to assume financial responsibilities for this,” Cole said. “He was fortunate that Main Street United Methodist Church in Suffolk invited him to give a recital. There were 175 people in attendance, and he was not only assisted financially but acquired some wonderful contributors and followers.”

The continued presence of COVID-19 “has definitely impacted his ability to take singing engagements and to give recitals,” Cole added.

“Financially, it has been a huge loss to Ricky.”

She’s set up a nonprofit account, PCCMI, where people can donate to his education and needs. Checks can be made out to PCCMI for Ricky Goodwyn Jr. and mailed to PCCMI, P.O. Box 127, Smithfield, VA 23431.

Despite all these setbacks, he’s placed first in state-level National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) competitions over the past five years in the classical category, and first in the mid-atlantic round for the tenor and baritone categories. Most recently, he placed third on a national level.

“The earnings for winning NATS competitions is not large, but singing there is highly valued when applying for colleges,” Cole said.

He hopes to attend graduate school upon finishing his undergraduate degree at JMU, but doesn’t foresee himself returning to the Tidewater area “only because there aren’t many chances to perform,” Goodwyn said. “To cut down traveling, I would rather move to Chicago or Cleveland or California or New York.”

“Even though he was homeless many years growing up, he has overcome his many obstacles, and continues to ‘plan his work, and work his plan,’” Cole said.

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26 • Progress 2021

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

Honorary Cheroenhaka (Nottoway) Indian earns her place Teresa ‘Moon Star’ Preston contributes to tribe’s goals

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

Referring back to the displays she brings to the powwows, Preston said, “I’ve had people come back four and five times in one day,” and added that the students then have been coming now as adults and bringing their children.

She said the chief is optimistic that powwows will resume if not by summer than November, but that will hinge on orders from Gov. Ralph

Northam.

In conjunction with Chief Brown or other members, “I’ve been instrumental in getting grants for projects such as longleaf pines or getting land in a conservancy,” said Preston.

“There are very talented people in the tribe and we work to draw them out,” she continued. “They really are a working tribe and not just in name only.”

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Teresa “Moon Star” Preston came to belong to the Cheroenhaka (Nottoway) Indian Tribe not through any blood relative, but by a personal focus on artifacts, specifically those of Native Americans.

When she was a child, her stepfather, George Erwin Bray, had such a collection that he had found on his own while a child himself.

When she was introduced to various objects,

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“There are very talented people in the tribe and we work to draw them out.”

Teresa “Moon Star” Preston holds up a Native-American made jar for visiting students to see. She regularly brings her artifacts for visitors such as arrow points and a big red-and-blue to see during powwows of the Cheroenhaka (Nottoway) Indian Tribe, bead, Preston also took a personal interest. of which she’s an honorary member, an at-large member, and has even “Then he later asked me to take them over been adopted by the members. - Submitted by Karen “Running Moon” to preserve. I inherited them through a codicil Barrett in his will. I’ve tried to respect what he gave me. And now I share it with others, such as taking them to powwows.”

She went on to join the Archaeological Society of Virginia (ASV) in 1996. A life member since 1998, she’s been ASV state secretary for a number of years, president of a local chapter and currently the media representative. In 2012, Preston was named Avocational Archaeologist of the year.

From the 1960s to 1990s, archaeologists had researched the discovery of what was an ancestral burial ground. That came to be

Progress 2021 • 27

known as the Hand Site Excavation because of its proximity to the village of Handsom. Investigation determined that a settlement had been there as early as 700 to 900 A.D., and lasted to 1650. Skeletal remains of Cheroenhaka (Nottoway) Indians were uncovered, and these were later sent to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. With Chief Walt “Red Hawk” Brown, Preston would later go on to co-write/edit “Cheroenhaka Nottoway Indian Oral History Sup-

ported by Archeological Finds at the Hand Site (44SN22).” That chronicles not only the aforementioned excavation, but also tribal history of the 17th through 21st centuries.

Along with a few other people, she became an honorary member in 2002, and later was asked to be an at-large member three years later. A few years ago, she was adopted into the tribe. Preston once accompanied other tribal members to see the remains of ancestors in D.C. “I couldn’t help but be moved,” she said.

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28 • Progress 2021

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

From the pulpit to the stage

By Stephen Faleski FRANKLIN As the Rev. Warren Johnson likes to say, “There’s a little bit of ham in every pastor.”

Ham as in hamming it up on stage.

In 1996, while ministering to a church in Lancaster County, S.C., Johnson had taken his then-11-year-old daughter to audition for the role of Scout in a local playhouse’s production of “To Kill a Mockingbird” and, as fate would have it, ended up landing the iconic role of Atticus Finch himself.

“My real-life daughter and I got to play father and daughter on stage,” Johnson said.

“It remains my favorite role and stage play.”

Since that year, he’s performed in 37 plays or one-acts, directed seven, done various biblical monologues during church worship services and led two congregations to produce “The Living Last Supper” - a dramatic tableau presentation of Leonardo DaVinci’s famed mural.

While he acknowledges that, unlike an actor, “those of us who preach God’s Word from the pulpit aren’t pretending to be somebody else,” he admits there’s a skill set that transitions well from the pulpit to the stage: projecting one’s voice, animating one’s presentation with facial expressions, body movement and voice inflection.

“I’ve found over the years that my acting helps my preaching and my preaching helps my acting,” Johnson said.

In 2017, the Suffolk native’s ministerial career came full circle when Beaver Dam Baptist of Franklin offered him the opportunity to move back to his family farm, located between the communities of Carrsville and Holland, and to become the new pastor of his boyhood church. By this time, his theatre credentials included portraying George Bailey in “It’s a Wonderful Life,” Georg Von Trapp in “The Sound of Music,” Jonathan Brewster in

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

me.”

While the theatre was forced to cancel or postpone all its in-person productions since March 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic reached Virginia, it hosted a livestreamed radio production of “It’s a Wonderful Life” Dec. 19 via the website broadwayondemand.com.

“Because we don’t have broadband at home, I haven’t been able to participate in any of these virtual acting opportunities, though I’ve been tempted,” Johnson said.

In-person services at Beaver Dam Baptist also ceased for roughly three months during the early days of the pandemic, during which time Johnson

Progress 2021 • 29

continued to lead worship on Sunday mornings from his church office via Facebook Live through the first of June.

The church has since resumed in-person services with social distancing and other COVID-19 precautions and continues to broadcast on Facebook Live for those who choose not to come in person.

Johnson is looking forward to resuming unrestricted inperson services and other church activities once the pandemic ends, as well as being back on stage in front of a live audience.

“If the theatre bug ever bites you, it’s in your blood …

You can’t beat it!” he said.

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VAAF 796 ABCole.com 4320 Godwin Blvd., Suffolk, VA “Arsenic and Old Lace” and Elwood P. Dowd in “Harvey” in Lancaster, S.C., as well as the role of Norman Thayer Jr. in “On Golden Pond” and a reprisal of his role as Finch in Fork Union, Virginia. But “there didn’t seem to be any established theatre in the immediate area” in southern Isle of Wight, he said Then, he came across a call for auditions on Facebook for a production of “Harvey” at

the Smithfield Little Theatre, which he discovered was only about a 35-minute drive from his house.

“SLT and the people there were so professional and friendly,” said Johnson, who reprised his role as Dowd for that production.

“They readily accepted me and made me feel like a part of their family, and now, I have a new theatre home, if they will keep having

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30 • Progress 2021

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

War chief keeps peace in Cheroenhaka (Nottoway) tribe William Lamb Howell quite proud of his involvement

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

• COLLISION REPAIR EXPERTS • volvement in the tribe.

“We reach out to the young people, the students in the surrounding area. They want to know about the Native Americans’ way of life and we are able to teach them. That’s one thing that will stay for me for life. Something I will never forget.”

He compares his title of war chief to being almost like a police officer that keeps the peace. If anything or anyone gets out of hand, he straightens them out.

The war chief also has to step in where needed, such as helping the color guard. Howell’s especially proud of his in-

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By Stephen H. Cowles “In 2002, I heard about the Cheroenhaka (Nottoway) tribe being re-established,” said War Chief William Lamb ‘Spread Eagle’ Howell. “Chief Walt Brown kind of spearheaded the project. He was able to keep it going.”

His own connection is quite personal. He was named by his mother after her father, William Lamb, also said to be a Cheroenhaka (Nottoway) Indian.

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“Me personally, I’m involved for my ancestors — my grandfather — not for prestige or money or anything like that. I think our ancestors would be very proud of us.”

“I had the privilege of being around him before he passed away,” said Howell, 73.

“He used to ride a bicycle from Courtland to where we lived in Holland of Nansemond County [now City of Suffolk]. He said the bike was more dependable.

“I was about 9 years old when he died in Southampton County. He was a very sad man. All his people had left and he was the only one here,” said Howell. “He seemed like he didn’t want to talk about the Native American people losing all their land — having it all taken away from them. I would

Progress 2021 • 31

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GIVE US A CALL TODAY! Behind Chief Walt Brown, War Chief William Lamb Howell leads the color guard. Vice Chief Ellis Wright Jr. is second from the left. - Submitted by Karen “Running Moon” Barrett talk to my mother about that. In the 1950s it was almost a sin to talk about Native Americans. Kids would tease us at school because I had the name of an Indian. But now I am so proud of my heritage now.”

Howell continued. “The very first powwow was at the Agriculture Museum in Southampton County. It was hard work. We would have to go out there and make the circle, dig the holes, put up poles and

ropes, and then afterward clear the land to look as if it had never been disturbed. We kept doing that and doing that year after year.

“We made tremendous progress in establishing the tribe. You see where we are now.

Me personally, I’m involved for my ancestors — my grandfather — not for prestige or money or anything like that. I think our ancestors would be very proud of us.”

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32 • Progress 2021

The Hidden Treasures of Western Tidewater

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By Renee Lassiter Contributor “George” is how the residents of Boykins and Branchville informally refer to their town sergeant, where he’s been a constant in their lives going on 11 years.

Mayor Jackie Robertson said, “Boykins is so fortunate to have our Town Sergeant George Brozzo. Boykins has been made a safer place to live because of his dedication to our town.”

What makes George so special is that he has the respect and gratitude of the community. He is always looking for the good and finding hope in others despite the national declining view of law enforcement. He’s also been instrumental in securing grants for community law enforcement.

Born Gouverneur, New York, George is one of four children with a father in mining and mother who was a homemaker and made her children behave.

He chose the career path of joining the Army right out of high school. George remembered that as a child how great it was to see the uniformed soldiers coming through his hometown while they went to and from Ft. Drum, and he wanted to be like them. His spirit of service also came early in life as his mom was his den leader in Boy Scouts. He follows the motto to this day.

“Always be prepared.” George said, “I do that a lot in my job today. I always have to anticipate ahead of time when I approach a traffic stop or any type of emergency situation. I have to always be thinking ahead.”

He went on to say that Boy Scouts meant a lot to him as he established many friendships, found ways to serve the community, gave him a sense of sharing and made him more disciplined. George was in the Army and Army Reserves, both times as a military police officer. A military college fund enabled

Progress 2021 • 33

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Food Pantry: Tues-Fri 9:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m./ 1:00 Food Tues-Fri 9:00 a.m.-11:30 FoodPantry: Pantry: Tues-Fri a.m.-11:30 a.m./ a.m./ Text:1:00 SalArmySuffolk To: 51555 p.m.-4:00 p.m.9:00 Drive-thru/walk-up hot meals Tues & Thurs 3pm 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.p.m.

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Southampton George Brozzo contues to give back to law enforcement – in 2019 he joined the “Law Enforcement United Ride” and during Police Week every May he has raised over $3,000 every year. - Submitted by Renee Lassiter him to continue his education in law enforcement, which included being deployed at Fort Dix, New Jersey, during 9/11. He joined the Portsmouth Police, serving 20 years doing patrol, field training and police instructor, and for 15 of those years was primarily a detective in the criminal investigations’ division, ending his career in the homicide unit.

George said it gave him a sense of accomplishment to solve a case and enable a family to have closure.

While in the Army in Missouri during 1988, George met Yvette, also in the military police division. Today they reside in Hunterdale and have two grown sons. The Brozzos are immersed in the care of their grandsons, and

George is also their T-Ball coach. While they love to travel, they also love coming home to the community closeness of Southampton County.

In 2012, George was instrumental in hunting down the producers of the show “American Pickers” to have them visit Boykins and tape a show on Hank Snow’s antique collection.

In 2019, the sergeant joined the “Law Enforcement United Ride,” which during Police Week in May he raised over $3,000. Though the 2020 ride was canceled due to COVID-19, he still raised over $3,300, and is lookSEE BROZZO, PAG 34

Welding Program Southampton County Public School Division is proud to offer our students opportunities to pursue and explore career choices prior to graduating. Students participating in dual enrollment welding classes travel to Camp Community College and are introduced to the various types of processes, equipment, and materials used in welding while following safety and compliance guidelines. Graduates possess the knowledge and skills required for employment in the welding industry and for continuing to progress through other welding �ields.

Founded by churches, the Franklin Cooperative Ministry is generously supported by churches, foundations, United Way, Scouts, civic groups, and businesses.

Gifts from individuals and memorial contributions also provide significant support.

We seek to support people in times of distress or deprivation but seek NOT to foster dependency. There is no charge for our services.

Donations accepted during regular office hours: Monday - Friday: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Monday - Thursday: 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Franklin Cooperative Ministry

Get involved: 757-516-6322

Franklin Cooperative Ministry is a 501(C) 3 non-profit agency. | 301 W 1st Ave, Franklin, VA

34 • Progress 2021

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Brozzo FROM PAGE 32

ing forward to riding again this year in May. The 250-mile bicycle ride honors the memory of officers who died in the line of duty, and raises financial support for the survivors and many other related groups. The ride begins in Chesapeake and goes for three days until arriving in Washington, D.C., where each rider presents a flag to the family of the person they represent. George said it was a wonderful feeling to accomplish this as a way to give back to fellow officers that have served. In 2019, for example, he rode in memory of a New York City officer that passed away from complications of 9/11.

“Sgt. Brozzo is a real asset to our community,” said Linda Beatty. “Through his efforts we

have been able to obtain grants to purchase equipment that the town could not afford, as well as funds to provide for additional hours to run radar in an attempt to curb speeding.

He has a good rapport with other law enforcement agencies and is able to get their support when needed. He is always looking for ways to improve our town and we are fortunate to have him.”

When asked how he would like to be remembered, George said he truly believes that you should put others before yourself, and he hopes that he will be remembered for giving others hope by being a good public servant.

To find out how you can give back by donating to the Law Enforcement United Ride go to www.leunited.org or donate to Brozzo’s campaign directly at www.Memberplanet.com/campaign/leunited/va2021/ georgebrozzo.e.”

THANK YOU TO FOOD SERVICES FOR MAKING THE DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF OUR STUDENTS, FAMILIES, AND THE COMMUNITY.

(757) 653-2692

21308 Plank Rd. Courtland, VA 23837

Gwendolyn P. Shannon, Ph.D., Superintendent

Southampton County Public Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, religion, disability, national origin or marital status in employment or any of its programs or activities.