Western Tidewater Living - Spring 2011 by The Tidewater News

A taste of the exotic Courtland’s Allison Phillips prepares Ahi tuna steaks

A remarkable group of people 1953 graduates of all-black school reunite

Catching up with ... Donna McCullough

SPRIN G 2011 • vol. 2, no. 1

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6 western tidewater living

letter from the publisher

n last fall’s issue, I remarked – after a long, hot summer for the record books – that I couldn’t ever remember an autumn so anticipated as 2010’s. After a cold, cruel winter, can the same be said of spring 2011? Spring has sprung in Western Tidewater, and visible signs abound—from the daffodils at Ruth Camp Campbell Library to T-shirt-clad walkers and joggers who just a few weeks ago were wearing sweats and toboggans. This issue features, appropriately, tips from some of the area’s finest gardeners on their flowers of choice. It’s hard to believe, but the spring issue also marks the first anniversary of our magazine – proof that what they say is true: Time flies when you’re having fun. In this space a year ago, I described the leap of faith we’d taken by launching a magazine in an uncertain economy. We had no idea how readers and advertisers would respond. The fact that we are embarking on a second year of publication speaks to the support you have given us. We couldn’t be more pleased. Instead of wondering whether our magazine has a future, our focus now is on how to keep making it better. For the summer issue, we need your help. We’re looking for suggestions of people in Western Tidewater who make a difference in our community through their charitable and volunteer actions. It could be a member of a civic or volunteer organization, or it could be one who, through individual and random acts of kindness, makes the world a better place. Send your nominations to magazine@tidewaternews.com. We’ll feature several of your nominees in our June issue.

Sincerely, Steve Stewart

letters to the editor

Dear editor, he idea to publish Western Tidewater Living was a great one! It’s very nice to see good things happening in our area. The recession has hit not only our area but all around so hard. It has left so many hardships that it’s very easy to get caught up in the negative instead of seeing the positive sides and having hope that everything will work out for the best. I was very surprised but excited to see my son’s picture with the Easter bunny in your latest issue — Winter 2010. My son’s name is John M. Bishop III. John had so much fun at the Easter egg hunt. He did not want to leave the Easter bunny’s lap. We also went to the Elf Parade to see Santa at Barrett’s Landing. Everything was planned out well and the kids had so much fun that night, even through it was so cold. Santa was great with all the kids. John left there so happy that he

got to see and tell Santa his Christmas list. Keep up the great work!

Rebecca H. Bishop Franklin

Dear editor, y cousin Mark Person just sent me a copy of your winter magazine, including the article on Persons Church. My mother was a Person of this family, and I am thoroughly enjoying the article. The magazine is nicely done, with great pictures and interesting stories.

Laurie Renard Durham, N.C.

contents | spring 2011

Cover photograph by Don Bridgers

SP RIN

no . 1 • vo l. 2, G 20 11

ON THE COVER: Allison Phillips of Courtland shares recipe for Ahi steak tuna

Inside this edition Steve Stewart Publisher Tony Clark General Manager Gwen Albers Managing editor Hattie Francis Contributing writer Merle Monahan Contributing writer Kate Archer Contributing writer Rex Alphin Columnist Troy Cooper Designer Ryan Outlaw Designer

From the Virginia Symphony Orchestra to an exhibit opening at Rawls Museum Arts, see what Western Tidewater residents have been doing over the winter. where am I? I

n each edition, our magazine’s staff provides a challenge of sorts for readers, testing how much of Western Tidewater you really know. We photograph a scene in the area that is readily visible to motorists or pedestrians. If you know where this photo was taken, you will be

Learn about six fun things just over the state line.

Sara Johnson Marketing consultant

40 western tidewater living

what’s cooking

exotic eats story by Merle Monahan photography by Don Bridges

Courtland’s Allison Phillips prepares feasts for the eyes

ining with Allison Phillips is always a surprise. During the holidays, the Courtland woman may serve the traditional Thanksgiving turkey or Christmas baked ham. More than likely, she will have something a little more exotic, like conch fritters — a large snail, or fresh clam ceviche. It also could be black pepper crusted Ahi tuna steaks with sweet chili sauce, paired with spring avocado salad. Regardless, Phillips’ guests are always awed by the meal. Each dish is cooked to perfection and attractively presented. The meal is as delicious as it looks. The 38-year-old learned to cook from her dad, Michael Phillips, a chief in the U.S. Navy, who traveled the world during his 20 years in the service. He collected recipes from the countries where he was stationed, and when he was home, he’d try them on her and her mom, Shirley. “Actually, I was the official taster,” Phillips said. “Dad would drive me and mom out of the kitchen while he cooked. When he’d finish, he’d call me in to taste what he’d made.” “I never knew what I was eating until after I’d had a couple bites, but it was always good,” she added. The three would then have dinner before her dad shared how he prepared the meal. “We had a lot of seafood, including lobster,” Phil-

down in the dirt

Area gardeners share secrets for planting favorite flowers.

remarkable group

Nansemond Training School graduates share lives of success.

28 46

46 western tidewater living

Michelle Stainback Office manager Western Tidewater Living is published four times a year by Tidewater Publications, LLC P.O. Box 497, Franklin, VA 23851 757-562-3187 Advertising rates and information available upon request to magazine@ tidewaternews.com. Subscriptions are $20 annually in-state; $24 annually out of state; and $30 annually overseas.

common ground

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. E-mail your answer to magazine@ tidewaternews.com. Go out and enjoy Western Tidewater!

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Tell us where our photographer took these photos and get a chance to win a gift certificate.

party pix

Loretta Lomax Editorial assistant Mitzi Lusk Marketing consultant

western tidewater living

living tHE dream Franklin’s Rebecca Mosena in the Big Apple.

Columnist Rex Alphin writes about the miracle of spring

anonymous miracle column and photo by Rex Alphin

omehow, some fantastical way, he comes alive. Unannounced, unheralded, unashamed, he pushes towards the surface. The world continues on. Mr. Jones picks up his morning paper from the yard and starts reading while walking back to the front door. Evelyn Richards searches the drawer for the little brown scoop she uses to put coffee in the paper tray. Jo Billy, catty-corner the bed, flat on his back, is snoring. He pokes his head between two grains of sand and finds the surface. For the first time in all his life, he sees light. Bill Simms unlocks the front door of “Simms Hardware,” whistling “Blue Moon,” just as he did the previous morning and will do tomorrow. Janet glances in the closet

looking for her blue blouse to wear to school. Billy wakes up thinking of Janet. Mr. Brown’s poodle is pacing the kitchen floor. As the sun hits his exterior, glorious things start to happen. He captures energy. Tiny explosions start occurring deep inside. His feet expand. His inner being becomes a highway of impulses, racing back and forth, up and down, in and out. Harry yawns, looks at the clock and decides on five more minutes of sleep. Just five more. Barbara Billups loosens her belt yet another

notch while dressing for work and mumbles something about doughnuts. The Blythe kids argue over who gets the bathroom first. Roscoe, their dog, head on paws, just watches. He opens his arms. Like an unfurling sail, he captures more of that wonderful substance called sunlight. It drenches him. He savors it. Becky Carter pours herself a bowl of cereal. Sonny flips on the morning news. Joni is changing her sheets and flipping the mattress, just as she does, like clockwork, the first day of every month. Ida Mae is rolled out to her place in the hallway at Golden Days Nursing Home. “Alive,” he says! “Alive.” He has somehow, some miraculous way, come to occupy, to exist, to be. He now is. ←

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party pix Art show

At left, Irene Field of Courtland, from left, Al Strickler of Franklin and Nancy Blythe of Walters attend the opening of an exhibit at Rawls Museum Arts in Courtland on Jan. 14; middle left, Nancy Stutts, Mercer Hartman and Pat Hartman, from Courtland; middle right, Jane Lankford and her son, Brad Lankford, 15, of Franklin; bottom left, Judy Livesay and Louisa Coker, both of Franklin; bottom middle, Dianne Bracy, left, and Joan Goodman, of Franklin; bottom right, Texie Bryant of Courtland and Debbie Agate of Franklin. Photos by Merle Monahan

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The Franklin-Southampton Concert Association hosted the Virginia Symphony Orchestra on Feb. 12. The free concert was funded by the Camp Foundations. Attending were, from left in photo at left, Melinda Worrell, Jamaal Tillery and his mother, Ruby Tillery, all of Courtland; middle left, Rosemary Scott of Hunterdale with her granddaughter Jenna Keffer, 11, of Franklin, and husband, Ritchie Scott; middle right, Phillip Carpenter of Southampton County with grandchildren Skylar Bunn, 5, and Anthony Bunn, 7; bottom left, Eric Avery and his daughter, Laney, 5, of Waverly; bottom right, Les Stallings and Bobby and Judy Smith, all of Suffolk. Photos By Gwen Albers

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NEWSOMS Steak Dinner

Above, attending the Newsoms Ruritan Club’s Annual Steak Supper on Feb. 12 were, from left, Gene Edwards, Nancy Bunn, Edna Porter, Norman Porter, Charles Bunn and Tobey Edwards; at left, Wanda Edwards, her grandson Bracey Pittman, 7, Margaret Doss and Kitty Lee; below left, Claude Drake Jr., Alma Drake, Shirley Williams, Joy Ellis and Edmund Ellis. Photos By GWEN ALbers

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Lee-Jackson Banquet

Top left, Margaret Felts of Ivor and her son, Jay Felts of Sedley, attend the 23rd annual Urquhart-Gillette Camp Sons of Confederate Veterans’ Lee-Jackson Banquet in January; top right, Phil Bowden, Lee Bowden and Kakie Bowden of Windsor; at left, Bill and Donna Gray of Norfolk; below, Rhonda Copeland and husband, Jimmy Copeland, of Sedley. Photos BY Merle Monahan

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Turkey Federation ANnual Dinner

Above, from left, Renea Drake-Porter, Colton James and his wife, Cassie, Brenda Reed and Margie Drake attend the Millswamp Longbeards Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation annual dinner on Feb. 25 at the Southampton County Fairgrounds; at left, Eleanor and Lucky Jones of Prince George. Photos BY Gwen ALbers

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things to do in murfreesboro Murfreesboro, N.C., offers a wealth of things to do. Western Tidewater Living made several visits and this is what we found story by Kate Archer

Fishing. Trout, perch, bluegill, large and smallmouth bass, walleye, black and white crappie, and channel cats are just a few species in the Meherrin River. The river, which flows southeast from Virginia before joining the Chowan River, is also a great place to take a paddleboat or kayak. Check out Gardners Hobby Shop, 502 E. Main St. in Murfreesboro, for gear, tackle and bait, or www.hookandbullet.com/cn/ fishing-hertford-nc/ for some lesser-known fishing holes.

1 Ever wondered what happened to “that thing” greatgrandmother had? Chances are you’ll find it, or one like it at The Brady C. Jefcoat Museum of Americana. Located at 201 W. High St., the museum features more than 17,000 square feet of old things that are a feast for the eyes and memories of days gone by. Operated by the Murfreesboro Historical Association and housed in the old Murfreesboro High School, this expansive collection of everything American was amassed by Brady Jefcoat of Raleigh, N.C., who began his collection in the 1970s. The museum is open Saturdays and Sundays or by appointment and can be reached at (252) 398-8054. For information, go to www. murfreesboronc.org/jefcoat.htm.

3 Murfreesboro is home to the Northeast North Carolina Watermelon Festival — a weekend of unparalleled food, music, a seed-spitting contest and genuine family fun. The event is the fruitful brainchild of Percy and Lynette Bunch, and their son, Michael, his wife, Vanessa, and their sons, Michael and Nicholas. The family steers the reins of Murfreesboro Farms, where the Bunch family grows and donates free watermelon slices throughout the four-day festival. This year’s festival runs from Wednesday, July 27, to Saturday, July 30, and will feature two bands each night, amusement rides, arts, crafts, bingo, a parade, watermelon and other delicious foods. For more information, visit www.watermelonfestivalnc.com.

western tidewater living Food, glorious food! Mark your calendars for 4 to 6 p.m. Sunday, May 22, for A Taste of Murfreesboro at The Commons, 314 W. Main St. Always held the Sunday one week before Memorial Day, this treat of culinary delights is pleasing to even the most discerning palates. In its third year, chief organizer and founder Danny Blowe said, “It’s getting bigger and better every year. This year, more area restaurants and citizens are participating.” Tickets are $10 in advance or $12.50 at the door. You can sample delectable things like crabmeat-stuffed chicken, wines by the glass and spectacular homemade baked goods, salads, appetizers and side dishes. Live music will be provided by The Potescasi String Band, a melodious blending of dulcimer, bass, guitar, fiddle and harmonica celebrating old-time Scottish and Irish folk music. Call (252) 398-4886 for details or stop by the Murfreesboro Chamber of Commerce to purchase tickets.

The Commons is not common at all. It’s an art gallery, upscale eatery, wine shop, bed and breakfast, and reception/meeting hall at 314 W. Main St. Owner and chef Jennifer Hodge has become the unofficial biographer of the Rea family, the original owners of the 1800s mansion. After a day of sightseeing and shopping in Murfreesboro, critique the local artwork while sampling wines and specialty eats, or stay for the night; relax on one of the sweeping verandas or on the rear deck, play horseshoes or have at English darts in the wine gallery. See more online at www.thecommons.biz or call for (252) 398-4052 reservations for special occasions.

INTERESTING PEOPLE OF MURFREESBORO RICHARD GATLING Richard Jordan Gatling, inventor of the machine gun, was born just north of Murfreesboro in Como, in Hertford County. The son of a farmer and inventor, Gatling distinguished himself as an inventor. In 1839, when he was 21, Gatling created a screw propeller for steamboats, unknown to him that a screw propeller had been patented just months prior to Gatling’s invention by John Ericsson. He founded Gatling Gun Co. in Indianapolis in 1862, and the company merged with Colt in 1897. While living in North Carolina, he worked in the county clerk’s office, taught school briefly and became a merchant. He died in 1903. KHALID SHEIKH MOHAMMED Notorious Al Qaeda leader Khalid Sheikh Mohammed attended Chowan University for one semester in the spring of 1983. The Commission Report on 9/11 alleges that he was the main architect of the 2001 terrorist attacks. He has purportedly confessed to roles in significant terrorist plots for more than 20 years, including the 1993 World Trade Center bombings, the Operation Bojinka plot, an aborted 2002 attack on the U.S. Bank Tower in Los Angeles, the Bali nightclub bombings, the failed bombing of American Airlines Flight 63, the Millennium Plot and the 2002 murder of journalist Daniel Pearl. He is currently imprisoned at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

WALTER REED

The Murfreesboro Historical Association is planning a lot of activities during the 150th commemoration of the Civil War. The William Rea Museum, located in the oldest building in Murfreesboro, will be the center for many Civil War exhibits, with the entire Historic District featured from 2011 through 2015. Saturday, April 9, there is a living history exhibit there; if you are a Civil War re-enactor, call MHA at (252) 398-5922. If you’re a history buff, a great book to learn about Murfreesboro during the Civil War is “Trial Separation: Murfreesboro and the Civil War” by Dr. Thomas C. Parramore, a Winton, N.C., native and author of many books on history of the area. His writings, along with self-guided tour books of the historical area and others, are available at the MHA gift shop in the Murfree-Smith Law office building. For more information, visit www.murfreesboronc.org/civilwar.htm.

Had it not been for Walter Reed’s steady approach to yellow fever and attacking the day’s misconceptions of the disease, yellow fever might still be with us today. His studies of American soldiers in Cuba confirmed that yellow fever is transmitted by mosquitoes rather than direct contact with infected humans. Chowan University’s newly dedicated Sports Science and Physical Education building, Reed Hall, is celebratory of Walter Reed’s childhood days in Murfreesboro, where as a youngster, he met his wife before he entered the Army’s medical field. Reed’s boyhood home still stands on Main Street across from the girlhood home of his wife, Emilie Blackwell Lawrence. The Walter Reed Army Medical Center is the U.S. Army’s flagship medical center in Washington, D.C. He died in 1902.

WILLIAM NATHAN HARRELL SMITH William Nathan Harrell Smith, the sixth chief justice of North Carolina, was born in Murfreesboro in September 1812. He attended Murfreesboro schools, graduated from Yale in 1834 and Yale Law School in 1836. He practiced law in Murfreesboro, and his law office still stands, currently the MHA Gift shop. Smith was a member of the state House of Commons in 1840, 1858, 1865 and 1866. He also served in the state Senate in 1848 and was the First Judicial District prosecutor of North Carolina for eight years; he was elected as an Opposition Party candidate to the Thirty-sixth Congress for two years in 1859-1861. An unsuccessful candidate for speaker by one vote, he served in the Confederate Congress from 1862-1865 and was a delegate to the Democratic National Convention in New York City in 1868. Smith served as counsel for Gov. William W. Holden during his 1871 impeachment trial and was named chief justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court in 1878 by Gov. Zebulon B. Vance, serving until his death in 1889.

JOHN HILL WHEELER Born Aug. 2, 1806, in Murfreesboro to a prominent ship merchant, John Hill Wheeler was a student at Hertford Academy. At 21, Wheeler was elected from Hertford County to serve four years in the House of Commons. At the end of his term, Gen. Andrew Jackson appointed Wheeler secretary of the Board of Commissioners. Wheeler ran unsuccessfully as a candidate for Congress in 1831, yet in 1837 he was appointed to head the U.S. Mint in Charlotte. In 1842, he was elected state treasurer by the North Carolina General Assembly but was defeated for re-election in 1844. In 1852 President Franklin Pierce appointed Wheeler to be the first U.S. ambassador to Nicaragua. In 1854, Wheeler went on to become an assistant secretary to President Pierce. Wheeler is thought to be the first North Carolinian native son to write a history of the State. He died in 1882.

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22 western tidewater living

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catching up with

donna mccullough story by Merle Monahan photography by Don Bridgers

Donna McCullough faced some tough decisions after Dec. 2, 1998. That was the night her younger brother, Michael Bernard Cavish Jr., a popular Norfolk restaurateur and former lawyer, prosecutor and professional football player, was murdered. His death left McCullough torn and faced with giving up a job she loved to continue operating Cavish’s restaurant — Fellini’s on Colley Avenue, where the 56-year-old was shot to death after closing for the night. McCullough, executive director of the Franklin-Southampton Area Chamber of Commerce for 28 years, left the job to run the restaurant. Today, at age 70, she’s Fellini’s chief executive officer. “I debated whether or not to reopen after Michael died,” she said. “But then I thought about all the customers he had. Where would they go?” McCullough oversees a staff of 40 at Fellini’s, which seats 175 diners and specializes in gourmet pizzas, salads, sandwiches and other fare. Her hours vary, although she goes in almost every day and works at least five days a week. McCullough gets help from family. Her sonin-law, Brett Kloc, is the restaurant’s general manager, and her husband, Michael, handles the bookwork. Donna McCullough’s daughter, Elizabeth Kloc, oversees the day-to-day operations. The restaurant continues to flourish, and McCullough couldn’t be happier. Many of her Franklin friends are patrons. “We all gather here from time to time,” she said. “It is a great place to dine and just enjoy an evening out.” McCullough, who is also the mother of Cheryl McCullough and Adrienne Maxim and a grandmother of four, fondly remembers her days with the Chamber. She joked that she had 24 bosses during her tenure, yet she is serious when she says she loved her work and declared it was the best job ever.

Donna McCullough, second from right, former executive director of the Franklin-Southampton Area Chamber of Commerce, visits with Franklin diners, from left, Mary Rich, Morgan Rich and Stan Rich at Fellini’s in Norfolk. McCullough left the Chamber to take over Fellini’s after the death of its former owner, her brother.

“When I say bosses, I’m referring to the presidents of the Chamber board,” McCullough said. “They changed almost every year, and I worked closely with all of them.” A 1962 graduate of the College of William & Mary, she taught school in Virginia Beach before moving with her husband to Franklin. Donna McCullough taught for one year at Southampton High School; at the same time, she taught an adult education class at Hayden High in the evenings. Appointed executive director of the Chamber in 1976, McCullough was asked to take over after her predecessor was killed in a boating accident. The Chamber had been inoperative for about six months. McCullough said she loved it from the very first day. Under her guidance, membership in the chamber rose from 76 to 250. McCullough also completed numerous projects during her tenure. “I was a member of the Franklin Junior Woman’s Club, with which the Chamber worked to start some of these programs,” she said. But many of the programs were McCullough’s idea. She noted she had a lot of help. One of the first she organized was the initial senior citizens program in Franklin. Another

was the Idlewood School for special-needs children. McCullough was also instrumental in starting the Franklin-Southampton County Fair, along with Wes Alexander, Joe Stutts and Norris Blythe. She started the Legislative Breakfast, where local officials and business leaders meet with state legislators. The Downtown Revitalization program, the tree-lighting ceremony and the Fall Festival were projects of McCullough’s, as well as Rawls Museum Arts, which she helped get off the ground with co-founders Bobbi Naranjo and Virginia Reese. McCullough gives much credit to Sol Rawls, whom she describes as her mentor. “He was the first president of the Chamber and taught me a lot,” she said. McCullough also started the Chamber education scholarship awarded to area high school students. When she retired in 2004, the Chamber renamed the scholarship the Donna McCullough Education Scholarship. “I am proud to have been able to work at the chamber for as long as I did,” she said. “I’ve met some wonderful and famous people through my work here, including Elizabeth Taylor and Roy Rodgers. I can truly say that I enjoyed going to work every day that I was there.” ←

24 western tidewater living

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26 western tidewater living AREA GARDENERS’ FAVORITE FLOWERS NAME: Amy Browne FLOWER: Daffodils President of the Franklin Garden Club, Browne enjoys daffodils. “They are one of the first signs I can see that winter is over,” she said. “Daffodil was derived from the old English word “Affoldyle,” meaning ‘early-comer.’ Of the genus Narcissus, more than 40 different species have been cultivated since ancient times in Asia and the West. Daffodils belong to the ornamental plant family, Amaryllidaceae, and are grown from bulbs, needing very little care. Most prefer well-drained soils with sunny or partial shade. They develop as single or double flowers and are known by their bright yellow colors, which is why they are often called Buttercups.

down in the dirt story by Kate Archer

hether you are an award-winning gardener, a trained horticulturalist or a “wanna-be” dabbler who can’t keep cactus alive, spring is the time to get out and start digging

in the dirt. Warm breezes, longer bouts of sunshine, chirping birds, buzzing bees and butterflies call us to the outdoors. April 16-23 is the 78th Annual Historic Garden Week in Virginia. Exquisite private homes and gardens across the state are open for tours, henceforth being dubbed “America’s Largest Open House.” Visit www.vagardenweek. org to see what’s open where, with dates and times. You’re certain to catch spring fever, as well as some ideas for your gardening projects.

GARDENING TIPS

Ann Weber, a horticulturalist with Smithfield Gardens in Suffolk, offers some tips on propagating plants from seed. “Buy your seeds now and good ones,” Weber said. “Most people tend to start their seeds indoors too early. You don’t want anything growing too large, too fast and then still be too cold to plant it outdoors.” Good soil is key to a successful garden. “Use a good soil mix for planting your seeds,” she said. “Something pretty sterile; a lighter soil with vermiculite works best. Good seed makes all the difference in the world.” To learn more, check out free classes on gardening at www. smithfieldgardens.com or call (757) 238-2511.

GARDEN CLUBS

Garden Clubs are a great way to get out with friends and do some good in the community. Area club members plant flowers at nursing homes, beautify public parks and walkways, and make cut arrangements for hospital patients. If you are interested in joining a garden club, Pinecrest is always seeking new members. “We have members from 20 to 90 years old,” said member Barbara Fickler. “It’s a big get-together of socializing, eating and working with real flowers; there’s always room for more.” “We have fabulous projects to work on and the creativity flies,” she added. Dues are $20 a year. Contact Fickler at 654-6587.

NAME: Pat Hartman FLOWER: Mahonia A member of Green Acres Garden Club in Courtland, Hartman loves flowering, fragrant flora, including the unique leafy green Mahonia shrub. “It is a plant for all seasons with tiny yellow flower clusters that turn into large, purple grapes during the summer, a favorite treat for birds,” she said. “In fall and winter, it’s a nice bush resembling holly. The colors of the leaves and berries change according to seasons.” Leatherleaf Mahonia are of the barberry (Berberidasceae) family. Named for 19th century American horticulturalist Bernard McMahon, they are very low maintenance. Plant in shade or partial shade, water well; they like moist, well-drained soil, and feed well in March. They may also be used as a houseplant. NAME: Mary Nelson Thompson FLOWER: Lilies State Chairman of the Garden Club of Virginia, Nelson has won many awards for her efforts with lilies. “I like hybrid lilies,” she said. “They come from bulbs that you plant once, and they will grow and multiply over the years.” The lily is one of the oldest flowers in the world, long prized for its beauty. Depictions of its blooms have been found on 3,500-year-old Minoan frescoes on Crete and have long held a role in ancient mythology. Named from the Greek word “leiron” (the Madonna white lily), lilies were so honored by ancient Greeks that they believed the flower actually sprouted from the milk of Hera, Queen of the Gods. They grow in every color except blue. Lilies are the May birth flower, and they signify 30th wedding anniversaries. NAME: Young and Jung Park FLOWER: Bonsai Trees and shrubs of all varieties are made to stay small with a delicate hand and a lot of pruning. The Parks have turned their love of miniature trees and flowers into a thriving business for ornamental gardening. “It’s relaxing to prune and shape the trees,” said Young Park, who’s been perfecting his skills since childhood in Korea. “A bonsai tree is like adopting a pet,” Jung Park added. “It needs care for feeding, watering and

western tidewater living grooming, like an animal.” Tiny juniper trees are the most popular of bonsai; the roots of older trees may be shaped in a twist or just normal for a maple. They are all tiny replicas of big trees. Special containers are needed to grow and nurture your trees, but they are not as hard to care for as one might think. NAME: Lynne Rabil FLOWER: Hydrangeas Sometime called hortensia, snowballs or Granny’s Plant, hydrangea arborescens are of the family Hyudrangeaceae. They can be bushes or climbers, perfect for planting in shady areas. Originally from the Orient, the French hydrangea are most popular here and can be white, pink or blue. Blue is commonly seen in acidic soils. To get pink blooms, add lime or superphosphate around the base of the plant several times in the fall and before springtime blooming. To turn pink flowers blue, use aluminum sulfate.

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NAME: Gurney Blunt FLOWERS: Tulips It’s pleasant to pass by Blunt’s manicured yard off Armory Drive. “I really like tulips in springtime,” he said. “They grow from bulbs and you are supposed to take them up each year, but I like everything about them. They’re easy to grow and come in so many colors. I just love the colors and shapes.” Tulips are among the most popular of all garden flowers. Frequently visible in old master works of art and once used as currency, they evoke thoughts of Holland, wooden clogs, Dutch hats and towering windmills. The genus Tulipa is a member a group of bulbous herbs in the family Liliaceae, like the lily. The name “tulip” comes from the Persian word “tulipant,” meaning turban — a visual reminder of the shape of the flower. NAME: Juanita Alphin FLOWERS: Pansies “I just love the faces on pansies,” Alphin says. “Yellow and purple are my favorites.” Pansies come in a variety of sizes, shades, colors and stripes, and are velvelty smooth and supple. Pansies are a violet. Viola tricolor hortensis. A favorite of many people, this plant is hearty and can last throughout winter if well cared for. The pansy gets its name from the French word “pensee,” meaning “thought.” It’s so named because the flower resembles a human face, and in fall, it leans forward as if deep in thought. The pansy has been thought of as a symbol of free-thought. Plant pansies in mild sun, feed them frequently, and pinch and pick the stems at the base so new flowers grow to replace the old ones. NAME: Barbara Jean Fickler FLOWERS: Peonies President of Pinecrest Garden Club in Boykins for eight years, Fickler loves salmon and rose-colored peonies. “They remind me of my childhood, playing in my late grandmother’s garden,” she said. “Peonies can be fragrant or non-fragrant.” Flower shapes range from single, semidouble, double, Japanese, and anemone. Named by the Greeks after Paeon, the God of Healing, peonies are of the genus Paeonia (family Paeoniaceae) and are natives of Europe and Asia. With large, showy blossoms, peony colors include black, coral, cream, crimson, pink, purple, rose, scarlet, white and yellow. Peonies like partial shade and rich, fertile soil. They do not like to be disturbed once planted, and should not be thinned before 10 to 15 years of growth. The flowers are opened by ants in June and July. They make gorgeous centerpieces and are beautiful in bridal bouquets.

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28 western tidewater living

a remarkable gr

‘We all lived within a five-mile radius of each other and all attended one of three churches in the area. There were 15 boys and 7 girls, close-knit then and we remain so today.’ Lemuel “Bill” Copeland — Nanesmond County Training School Graduate

western tidewater living

group of people Nansemond County Training School tells story of success story by Merle Monahan photography by Tara Kea

emuel “Bill” Copeland shares a remarkable story about the 22 people he graduated with in 1953 from an all-black high school in Holland. All graduated, which was unusual for the time. And even more unusual, all studied a higher vocation and had successful careers. None drank or smoked. Not one class member, boy and girl, was a teenage parent. All members of the class married and raised stable families. “As of today, not one of us has ever been in any trouble,” said Copeland, who lives in Laurelton, N.Y. “We all feel that we are a remarkable group of people who, despite economic hardships, societal drawbacks and the harsh racial inequalities of that time, were able to complete our high school education and, without exception, go on to live quite successful, productive and contributory lives.” “We all still marvel at what we have been able to achieve, despite all of the impediments in our paths,” he added. Ten of the 14 surviving classmates from Nansemond County Training School recently met for a breakfast reunion at Station 1 Restaurant in Hunterdale. The event was significant. This year, the graduates will turn 75. It was also the first time female alumni attended. The entire class, with the exception of one who graduated elsewhere, started grammar school together in the same school building in Holland in 1942 and stayed together through graduation. “We all lived within a five-mile radius of each other and all attended one of three churches in the area,” Copeland said. “There were 15 boys and seven girls, close-knit then and we remain so today.” He shared some of the hardships he and his classmates endured. “Our families, for the most part, were tenant farmers, sharecropSee CLASS page 30

30 western tidewater living

CLASS continued from page 29

Attending the Nansemond County Training School Class of 1953’s 25th reunion in 1978 were, seated from left, Eva Faulcon, Alex Blizzard, Wilhelmenia Parker Valentine, Helleon Holland, Mary Baily Evans and Levi Williams; in back, Max Jenkins, Enoch Copeland, William Simmons, Linwood Dillard, Edward Boone, Lemuel “Bill” Copeland and Nelson Jones.

pers or day laborers who struggled just to feed and clothe their families,” Copeland said. “During those early years, sending a child to school was not on the top of the list. But our families, it seemed, wanted something better for their children, and for that, school was necessary.” Bussing for black students was not available. Some walked five miles to and from school on unpaved roads in all kinds of weather. The school had no electricity, running water or indoor plumbing. The government also did not provide books to black students. Normally, books were handed down from students in the preceding grade. Those who could not afford to buy books went without. Sometimes, teachers would buy books for students out of a salary that was a fraction of what was paid to white teachers. “It was tough, but we did it,” said classmate Max Jenkins, who lived on a farm. “That is except for planting and harvesting time. We had to miss school then to help with the crops.” “Man, I used to pray for rain,” Jenkins said. “When it rained, we couldn’t work on the farm, so I could go to school.” Jenkins, who lives in Driver, joined the Marine Corps after graduation and retired as a sergeant 1st class. He also holds an associate’s degree from Frederick Community College.

“After I had served my first two years in the service, I could have gotten out, but all I could see at home was that mule and plow, so I re-enlisted,” he said. Enoch Copeland, who lived across the road from Bill Copeland, went on to become a principal in the Suffolk school system, vice mayor of Suffolk and is now on the Suffolk School Board. He received a bachelor’s degree from Virginia Union University and master’s degree from Hampton University. Graduating second in his class, Enoch Copeland shared some of the good things from his school days. “We had a great baseball team,” he said. “We played teams from Hayden High, Booker T. Washington, Southampton Training School, East Suffolk High and even a school in Hertford County, N.C. I remember that out of 12 games, we won 10 during our senior year.” Looking at Bill Copeland, who was the top graduate, Enoch Copeland said, “I played shortstop, but I’ve forgotten what position you played, Bill.” Bill Copeland laughed. “I was the scorekeeper,” he said. “There were few professional jobs open to blacks during the early ’50s,” said classmate Thelma Warder, who graduated from the Dixie Hospital School of Nursing in Hampton. “All of us ended up well, See CLASS page 31

western tidewater living though. That’s because we had an education and were taught to achieve.” “We had good teachers,” Warder continued. “We thought they were tough, and they were. But look how well we turned out.” Their English teacher, Miss Graham, would pass only those students who spoke perfect English. “It made no difference if we were ready to graduate or not,” said Warder, who lives in Pennsylvania. “We had to pass her course, or we would be held back.” Carrsville resident Roxanne Walden is thankful for those years. “And I’m thankful that we can all get together,” Walden said. “Who knows how many of us will be left next year?” Alex Blizzard, who spent 22 years in the Army, remembers one of his worst days in Miss Graham’s class. “I was assigned to write an essay on Oliver Wendell Holmes, and I didn’t do it,” Blizzard said. “She failed me.” A resident of Holland, Blizzard earned a degree in technology from Norfolk State University. He is involved in many community organizations, including the Disabled Veterans Association. The only student who did not graduate with the class — but still attends reunions — is Donald Johnson. He spent one year with the class before his family moved Lemuel “Bill” Copeland holds his diploma after to New Jersey. graduating from Nansemond County Training “That was one of the best years Academy in 1953. of my life,” Johnson said. “That’s one reason I still come back. These are some of my best friends.” Bill Copeland, who retired after 40 years as a social services consultant with the New York City Human Resources Administration, also gave credit to their principal, H.E. Howell, and their seven teachers. “Their dedication and commitment guided us along the ‘stony roads’ and prepared us for the ‘bitter chastening rods’ that we faced constantly,” Copeland said. Other members attending the reunion were Durman Nelson Jones, Linwood Dillard and Herman Baker. Unable to attend were Edward Boone, William Simmons, Delores Darden, Wilhelmenia Parker Valentine and Mary Young Gatling. Deceased classmates are James Dillard, Helleon Holland, Gilmer Parker, Weaver Walden, Luther White, Levi Williams, Mary Bailey Evans and Zettie Cross. ←

32 western tidewater living

living the dream

spotlight on Smithfield story by Hattie Francis submitted photography

s Rebecca Mosena neared graduation from the Governor’s School for the Arts two years ago, she was offered the opportunity of an artist’s lifetime — a full scholarship to The Cooper Union in New York City. Located in Manhattan’s East Village, The Cooper Union is one of the nation’s oldest and most prestigious institutions of higher learning dedicated exclusively to preparing students for professions in the arts and sciences.

Its mission reflects founder Peter Cooper’s fundamental belief that education of the highest quality should be as “free as air and water” and should be available to all who qualify. For 150 years, the college has admitted students based on merit alone and provided each with a full-tuition scholarship. Throughout high school, Mosena watched many fellow students attempt the daunting task of applying to The Cooper Union. “When I was in the ninth grade at GSA, all of the seniors applied See MOSENA page 34

western tidewater living

‘Governor’s School definitely prepared me. It prepared me physically and mentally — for the stress, the mental part of it, conceptually. Instilling it in its students that it is OK to just think outside of the box.’ Rebecca Mosena — Art Student

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34 western tidewater living Sky high continued from page 36

to Cooper Union, so it was like from the ninth grade, it was just this build up that ‘you know, well, I’ll try, but it’s not going to work,’ ” she said. The daughter of Franklin’s Dawn and Richard Mosena got a phone call one evening at about 9. On the other end of the line was an admissions representative from Cooper with the news that Rebecca Mosena had been accepted. “After that I just didn’t hear whatever else she said, and before I knew it, it was done,” she said. “If you get into Cooper, it’s a big enough deal that you need to go.” Mosena went from living in a Southampton County farmhouse off Route 258 just outside Franklin to an apartment in Brooklyn. “I was excited,” she said. “I was just ready for change. I made the point to not worry about it ahead of time — to just enjoy it. I didn’t know anybody there. I didn’t really know how to use the subway system, but I got a map and I started talking to people.” Mosena began her formal education in art during high school at the Governor’s School in Norfolk. Each day, she attended two classes at Southampton High School and then took a bus to Norfolk. Mosena credited getting into Cooper Union to the Governor’s School. “Governor’s School definitely prepared me,” she said. “It prepared me physically and mentally — for the stress, the mental part of it, conceptually. Instilling it in its students that it is OK to just think outside of the box.” “If you want to go off and make some kind of metal shield and strap it to your back, and talk about it, you can do it,” she continued. “It’s just taking an idea and letting it have a life before you shut it out.” During the summer between her junior and senior years at the Governor’s School, Mosena attended a pre-college program at the Pratt Institute in New York. She studied interior architecture and asked Professor Anthony Titus if she could share her work with him. Unbeknownst to Mosena, Titus was a professor in architecture at Cooper Union. “I had no idea he taught there,” Mosena said. “I had worked with him a whole month.” Titus offered to write her a letter of recommendation to Cooper Union. “I just knew I had to (apply) because I had so much respect for him,” Mosena said. She also applied to the School of the Arts Institute of Chicago, Virginia Commonwealth University and Pratt Institute. The Cooper Union’s history runs deep. “Abraham Lincoln spoke there,” Mosena said. “Obama spoke there twice. Thomas Edison went to Cooper Union.” The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People and American Red Cross were founded at Cooper Union. Cooper Union has about 850 students, and there are only 65 people in Mosena’s class in the art department. “So you know what everybody did the day before and what they’re going to do tomorrow,” Mosena said. Students live in a dorm their first year, and then they’re on their own. Mosena is responsible for the higher standard of living that comes with living in New York City. See MOSENA page 35

The third installation of Rebecca Mosena’’s Stone Series. Pictured is a 22-pound hollow bronze cast of the Origin Stone. One side is mirror polished, while the opposing textured side is engraved with the phrase “True Lineage; Adopted six years prior to, and therefore, henceforth.” The phrase was developed by Rebecca in her final years of high school.

western tidewater living

Rebecca Mosena pours 35 pounds of molten bronze for a bronze piece she’s making. MOSENA continued from page 34

“They don’t have a meal plan. It’s just grow up, sink, or swim,” she said. Mosena is in her fourth semester at Cooper Union. She says the first year was the toughest. “Freshman year, you have to take foundation classes,” she said. “Stuff that is supposed to build you up and prepare you to be able to make your own choices. But, literally, what it does is strip you of all previous knowledge and what you used to do.” “You don’t have time to do it, so you’re pushed to do new things,” Mosena continued. One of the new things she has been working on is bronze castings — preparing, melting and pouring the bronze into her own molds. Mosena also became intrigued by working with stone and has produced a complete stone series. The series, which included a recasting of stone in bronze, was critiqued in her sculpture class. “There are no boundaries, and it’s very honest criticism,” she said. Mosena says the possibilities are endless at Cooper Union. ←

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36 western tidewater living

western tidewater living

Have story ideas? Photos you want to share? Want to see them in Western Tidewater Living? A taste of the ex otic asa

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where am I? I

n each edition, our magazine staff provides a challenge of sorts for readers, testing how much of Western Tidewater you really know. We photograph a scene, or in this case doors in Southampton County, that are visible to motorists or pedestrians.

The reader who can identify the locations of the most doors will win a $25 gift certificate to any one of our partner advertisers. So, if you know where these doors are, let us know. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re right, you could be a winner. E-mail your answers to magazine@tidewaternews.com Go out and enjoy Western Tidewater!

40 western tidewater living

what’s cooking

exotic eats D

story by Merle Monahan photography by Don Bridgers

ining with Allison Phillips is always a surprise. During the holidays, the Courtland woman may serve the traditional Thanksgiving turkey or Christmas baked ham. More than likely, she will have something a little more exotic, like conch fritters — a large snail, or fresh clam ceviche. It also could be black-peppercrusted Ahi tuna steaks with sweet chili sauce, paired with spring avocado salad. Regardless, Phillips’ guests are always awed by the meal. Each dish is cooked to perfection and attractively presented. The meal is as delicious as it looks. The 38-year-old learned to cook from her dad, Michael Phillips, a chief in the Navy who traveled the world during his 20 years in the service. He collected recipes from the countries where he was stationed, and when he was home, he’d try them on her and her mom, Shirley. “Actually, I was the official taster,” Phillips said. “Dad would drive me and Mom out of the kitchen while he cooked. When he’d finish, he’d call me in to taste what he’d made.” “I never knew what I was eating until after I’d had a couple bites, but it was always good,” she added. The three would then have dinner before her dad shared how he prepared the meal. “We had a lot of seafood, including lobster,” PhilSee EXOTIC page 41

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EXOTIC continued from page 40

lips said. “If it could be eaten, my dad would cook it. But seafood was readily available in most of the places we lived, and we all liked it.” The family lived in Florida and Cuba when she was young and moved to Virginia, where Phillips graduated from high school in Fredericksburg. Sadly, her dad passed away two years ago, but his legacy lives on. “I never cook without remembering something he said or did,” Phillips said. “I use his recipes all the time.” An office clerk at Community Electric Coop. erative in Windsor, she also inherited his love of the art. “I’m never happier than when I’m in my own kitchen trying out a new recipe or experimenting with an old one,” Phillips said. “I’m famous for adding one ingredient, or leaving out another to come up with my own version of the dish.” The proud owner of an 1880s Victorian fourbedroom home that she purchased two years

ago, Phillips fell in love with the place because it has a large kitchen. Although the house needed some renovation, like painting and refinishing the floors, Phillips first put her kitchen in order. “That was my first concern,” she said. “The rest of the house could be sparsely furnished, but my kitchen had to be complete.” The kitchen and adjoining den are perfect for entertaining, which Phillips does often. “I can have a party anytime,” she said. “It doesn’t have to be a holiday; any occasion will do. For the Super Bowl, Phillips served London broil steaks to 13 people. She also does theme parties, serving foods native to a particular country. “Sometimes it can be Mexican, other times it could be Italian or Chinese,” Phillips said. “My recipes often come from my dad’s collection.” Her friends have adopted her place. “Although they don’t always know what they’re going to eat, they know they will

ALLISON PHILLIPS’ RECIPES:

FRESH CLAM CEVICHE 1 lb fresh clam meat, uncooked 3 fresh limes, juiced 1 avocado 1 medium red onion, diced 1 green bell pepper, diced 2 cloves fresh garlic, pressed 1 jalapeno pepper, diced ½ cup diced, fresh cilantro 1 Tbsp olive oil Sea salt and cracked black pepper to taste In mixing bowl, combine clam meat, green pepper, jalapeno pepper, garlic and onion. Add to mixture, lime juice, olive oil and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper, then refrigerate for 30 minutes. After mixture has chilled, dice the avocado and fold into

eat,” Phillips said. “I just can’t get together with my friends and not feed them.” A motorcycle enthusiast with her own bike, Phillips will invite her biker buddies to her home for breakfast prior to rides. “They come from all over, and this is a good place to meet,” she said. “Besides, they all know that I enjoy the cooking. I’ve had as few as two and as many as 15.” Phillips also finds time to volunteer. She oversaw last year’s Thanksgiving dinner for the homeless hosted by the Suffolk Chapter of the Salvation Army. “I got on the phone and called everybody I knew for donations,” Phillips said. “Then I called a friend of mine, Ricky, of Ray and Ricky’s Catering, who agreed to help with the cooking. We received so much food that we had enough left over to feed a lot of the residents in two local nursing homes.” “That was a wonderful day for me,” she added. “Just to see the happiness on the faces of these people made it all worthwhile.” ←

Separate egg whites from yolks; discard egg whites. Add yolks to anchovy paste. Press garlic and add to bowl. Add lemon juice, dried mustard, olive oil and parmesan cheese. Add sea salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well. Chop Romaine leaves and add to paste. Mix well, covering the leaves well. Garnish with saved anchovies and croutons. NOTE: If adjusting ingredients, such as more or less mustard or anchovies, make sure the dressing is paste-like so it will stick to the leaves.

BLACK-PEPPER-CRUSTED AHI TUNA STEAKS WITH SWEET CHILI SAUCE 2 fresh or frozen Ahi tuna steaks 2 Tbsp sesame oil 1 Tbsp roasted sesame seeds 1 Tbsp coarse ground black pepper Ground sea salt to taste Sweet chili sauce or teriyaki sauce In small dish, combine sesame seeds, black pepper and salt. Gently press mixture onto all sides of the tuna steaks, being careful not to smash flesh of the tuna. Pour sesame oil into a non-stick frying pan and heat oil to a rather high temperature. Carefully place steaks into pan and fry for 45 to 60 seconds per side, just enough to sear steaks, as Ahi tuna is best served rare. Cut tuna steaks into ¼ to ½-inch-wide slices. Serve immediately with sweet chili sauce or teriyaki sauce.

mixture easily, so the avocado isn’t mashed while mixing. Serve and enjoy. CAESAR SALAD WITH ANCHOVIES AND HOMEMADE DRESSING 1 head Romaine lettuce 1-2 garlic cloves 1 can anchovy fillets 2 eggs 1 fresh lemon 1 oz parmesan cheese (adjust for desired thickness) 1 Tbsp dried mustard Dash of olive oil Sea salt and coarse black pepper to taste Croutons Rinse lettuce leaves and set aside to dry. Remove four anchovies from the can and set aside for garnish. Place the remaining anchovies in a bowl; discard the anchovy oil from can. Mash anchovies into a paste. Do not use canned anchovy paste unless fillets are not available.

MANGO FRUIT MIXTURE WITH BROWN SUGAR-LIME MARINADE Fruit mixture — mangos, strawberries, blueberries, kiwi and raspberries. Fresh is best, but frozen will work ½ cup brown sugar 1/3 cup fresh squeezed lime juice ¼ tsp cinnamon Combine sugar, lime juice and cinnamon in bowl and refrigerate overnight. If using fresh fruit, slice and refrigerate overnight, but if frozen, thaw completely. Approximately 1 hour before serving, pour sugar mixture over fruit, toss well and refrigerate another 20 minutes. Garnish with fresh mint and serve.

SPRING AVOCADO SALAD 2 cups mixed spring salad greens ½ avocado, sliced 2 tsp roasted sesame seeds 2 tsp toasted sesame oil Ground black pepper and salt to taste Toss all ingredients in mixing bowl. Serve and enjoy. NOTE: Ingredients for above menus are not overly expensive and may be purchased at most supermarkets.

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Find it in Smithfield Fine Art Find Victorian and vintage fine art like this antique oil painting from the late 1800’s titled “Couple on the Alps,” along with estate jewelry and other century-old antiques at Mansion House Art and Antiques in historic downtown Smithfield. Thinking about spending the weekend in Smithfield? Visit their bed and breakfast, Mansion on Main.

Fun Gifts A Pandora bracelet, a nice handbag or a painted wine glass are a few of the fun gifts you can find at Cloud Nine on Main Street in Smithfield. It’s the perfect place to find a fun gift for your favorite gal pal! Unique Christmas Decor This exquisite, hand painted ornament is a one-of-kind from the Ino Schaller Bayern collection from Poland. You can find this and many other decorative holiday items when you visit The Christmas Store in historic downtown Smithfield.

Beauty right outside your front door

Old Oak Lawn & Landscape 757-537-0968

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS 4/2—CLEAN RIVERS DAY Location: Franklin Spend the day cleaning up trash along the Nottoway and Blackwater rivers. Contact Riverkeeper Jeff Turner at 562-5173. 4/16—DOWN HOME DAY Location: Heritage Village, 26135 Heritage Lane, Courtland A family day full of heritage activities will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. Admission is $3 for adults and $1 for children. 4/16-11/19—FORT HUGAR WALKING TOURS Location: Off Route 10 at 15080 Talcott Terrace, Smithfield Free, one-hour walking tours will be held 10 a.m. on the third Saturdays of the month through Nov. 19. 4/16—EASTER EGG HUNT Location: Barrett’s Landing at 300 S. Main St., Franklin. The event, hosted by the Downtown Franklin Association, begins at 11 a.m.

Simply Divine Southern Taste Southern Hospitality

FORT HUGAR WALKING TOURS

4/20—63rd SHAD PLANKING Location: Wakefield Sportsmen’s Club, 12205 Brittles Mill Road Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell will be the keynote speaker for the event, which will be from 2 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Get tickets at $20 each via The Virginia Diner at 1-800-935-4004, or online at www.shadplanking.com.

Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner to go 757-516-8557 102 N. Main St Franklin, VA M-F • 8am - 6:30pm

4/30—A Day in the Country Location: Zuni Presbyterian Home, 5279 Homegrown Lane, Zuni Community and area church groups will provide food, activities, performances, an auction, hay rides and peanut and plant sales from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Proceeds support the ministry of Zuni Presbyterian Homes. For questions, contact Liz Spewak, 434-382-9036. 5/7—CECIL PROFFIT’S WORLD OF WHEELS INTERNATIONAL CUSTOM SHOW Location: Heritage Park, Windsor Colosse collector Cecil Proffit and Isle of Wight County Fair officials will host this auto, car, truck, van, motorcycle and farm equipment show from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. To register, call 365-6325. 5/26-9/1—WE BE JAMMIN’ Location: Barrett’s Landing at 300 S. Main St., Franklin. Join the Downtown Franklin Association from 6 to 10 p.m. every Thursday for free concerts featuring local and regional bands, refreshments and concessions. 6/13—ANNUAL SOUTHAMPTON ACADEMY GOLF TOURNAMENT Location: Cypress Cove Country Club For information, call John Drewry 757-630-8866. 6/18—CHRISTOPHER RAY MEMORIAL FISHING TOURNAMENT 2011 LOCATION: To be announced The second annual event will be held from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. in memory of Christopher Ray, a 22-year-old Southampton County Sheriff’s Office deputy killed in an August 2009 crash while on duty. For information, call 653-2100. 6/26—PATRIOTISM IN THE PARK Location: Barrett’s Landing at 300 S. Main St. The U.S. Fleet Forces Band will perform a patriotic celebration. Highlights include a tribute to all branches of the armed forces.

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Don Bridgers

Studio of Photography Professional Photographers of America

757.562.5339

www.BridgersPhotography.ifp3.com 31215 Country Club Rd, Franklin, VA 23851

Real Estate Listings

SOUTHAMPTON - Located in a lovely country setting on 1+ acre lot. Lrg. Kit. W/ built-in china cabinets. Lrg. M.BR. w/ WALKIN CLOSET. Freshly painted. $189,000

SCOTTSWOOD - New construction w/ many upgrades located near the Country Club and Golf Course! Open floor plan, full appliance package, 3/4 acre lot. $210,000

Elaine Holland - 757.562.7140 Crestline Realty

Betty Hawkins - 757.535.4608 www. cb-pro.com/bhawkins Coldwell Banker Professional Realtors

Donna Poplin - 757.377.6563 www.williamewood.com/donnapoplin William E. Wood & Associates

WALTERS - Brick home located on 2.3 acres. FP w/gas logs & built-in insert. Lrg. LR opens to DR. New sunroom overlooking b. yard. BDRMs have lrg.closets.. $219,000

BOYKINS - 4bd - 2ba cape cod with over 5 acres, 2 detached garages and a horse stable. This is a must see for horse lover, it has everything you need. $219,000

Waterfront home w/1.67ac’s. Mostly new flooring, all appliances convey, tons of cabinets, screened porch overlooking the water - apprx 300’ water frontage. $246,900

Vera Barnes - 757.275.4462 www.williamewood.com/verabarnes William E. Wood & Associates

Micah Dillon - 757.777.6705 www.micahdillon.com Coldwell Banker Professional Realtors

Christy Babb - 757.374.3558 www.williamewood.com/christybabb.com William E. Wood & Associates

FRANKLIN - Immaculate brick home in beautiful neighborhood. Featuring Great room w/Cathedral ceiling, beautiful FP. Oversized eat-in kit & dining area. $269,900

COURTLAND - Waterfront in Shands Estates. The good life is waiting for you! One of many beautiful homes being offered! They’re just a phone call away! $325,000

FRANKLIN - Beautifully Renovated w/ Upgrades Galore! In-ground Pool w/ Pool House & Hot Tub! 4 br, 3 1/2 ba 3,842 sqft on 2.25acres. $650,000

Michelle Buchanan - 757.635.7653 www.williamewood.com/michellebuchanan William E. Wood & Associates

Mary L. Lilley - 757.641.9511 www.maryllilley.com Coldwell Banker Professional Realtors

Missy Lamm - 757.635.8414 (cell) www.missylamm.com Coldwell Banker Professional Realtors

FRANKLIN - 6BR, 4.5BA Two Story, 5,000 SFLA, 2 Master Suites, 1 In-Law Suite, Stainless Appliances, Granite Countertops, Hickory Cabinets, HW & Porcelain Floors.

IVOR - 5BR, 4.5BA Ranch Offers 6,000 SFLA, Spacious Floor Plan, Gourmet Kitchen, Library, Crystal Chandeliers, Massive Master Suite, Security & Intercom Systems

FRANKLIN - Desirable home in Scottwood! Nice big 2 car detached garage. Attached garage that can be used as play or work area. 3br, 2 ba boast 1932 SFLA.

WC Gaunce - 757.653.1329 Scott & Associates

Helen Marlin - 757.621.7796 www.cb-pro.com/helen_marlin Coldwell Banker Professional Realtors

FRANKLIN - Nice Townhouse Convenient To Schools, Hospital, Ymca And Commercial Area. Crown Molding, Wood Floors And Gas Fireplace. $124,900

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common ground

anonymous miracle column and photo by Rex Alphin

omehow, some fantastical way, he comes alive. Unannounced, unheralded, unashamed, he pushes toward the surface. The world continues on. Mr. Jones picks up his morning paper from the yard and starts reading while walking back to the front door. Evelyn Richards searches the drawer for the little brown scoop she uses to put coffee in the paper tray. Jo Billy, catty-corner the bed, flat on his back, is snoring. He pokes his head between two grains of sand and finds the surface. For the first time in all his life, he sees light. Bill Simms unlocks the front door of “Simms Hardware,” whistling “Blue Moon,” just as he did the previous morning and will do tomorrow. Janet glances in the closet

Make the right choice. You make choices every day. When to shop. Where to eat. What to wear. When it comes to your healthcare, it’s even more important that you choose the right physician and hospital. Southampton Memorial Hospital, with 221 licensed beds, offers a variety of inpatient and outpatient specialties that set it apart from other hospitals in the region. An active medical staff of over eighty (80) physicians offers specialized care often unmatched in comparable-sized medical communities. Inpatient and outpatient services offered at the hospital include: • Anesthesiology • Emergency Medicine • Family Practice • Gastroenterology • General Surgery • Gynecology • Internal Medicine • Neurology • Obstetrics

• Ophthalmology • Orthopedic Surgery • Otolaryngology (ENT) • Pathology • Pediatrics Pulmonology Radiology •• Sports Medicine Pediatrics • Sports Medicine Radiology • Urology Sports Medicine • Urology

100 Fairview Dr. • Franklin, VA 23851

757-569-6100 w w w. s m h f r a n k l i n . c o m