Western Tidewater Living Summer 2017 by The Tidewater News

Western Tidewater

Living

Treasure on Wheels

This 1951 yellow Mercury shines like the sun and rides like a dream thanks to the loving restoration done by Ernie and Juanita Sydnor of Boykins.

It’s Christmas in July

Bill Vick puts a practical skill he learned as a boy to creative use.

Who am I?

A new feature asks readers to find out who’s who in Western Tidewater.

SUMMER 2017 • vol. 8, no. 2

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Western Tidewater

Living

How are you going to enjoy this season? Will there be a vacation? Mornings at the beach or pool? Afternoons in the libraries or art galleries? Perhaps evening concerts and amusement parks? Certainly, we hope that there will be plenty of cool fun. To that, we’d also like to suggest you also spent part of that time perusing our summer edition of Western Tidewater Living. As a matter of course, there are the regular features of party pictures and the calendar, which offers a full schedule of things to do for the next couple of months. Photos from area proms have been added this time, and I’m hopeful that will become an annual feature. While we do have the “Where am I?” guessing game, another one has been added: “Who am I?” In your daily or weekly travels throughout the area, you might have noticed from time to time places that feature various paintings or large-sized photographs. Usually, they’re of people who have made a notable contribution one way or another. Figure out who they are and let us know. As with the other feature, we’ll pick a name and award a gift card. Our stories this issue: • In spring, the congregation of Grace Memorial United Methodist in Sedley celebrated the church’s 100th anniversary. We feature a history and interviews with some of the people who have made Grace an enduring place of

introduction worship and community. • As early as junior high school, Bill Vick learned the skill and art of wood carving. In decades since, the Courtland resident has created desirable bowls and Christmas ornaments. Even now he’s at work making decorations that will first premiere at the Albemarle Craft Show this fall. • Speaking of hobbies, the men and women who participate at the Downtown Franklin Cruise-Ins have stories to tell about their prized vehicles. We met with a few, such as Ernest and Juanita Sydnor of Boykins, who told us how they came to own their cars, and how they put themselves into collecting and restoring. • Once a cheerleader and athlete at Southampton High School, DeShon N. Rollins of Newsoms is dancing through life and making the most of it. He belongs to a dance company in Richmond, and also been making a living by teaching in Petersburg and Dinwiddie. • Jenna Lusk and Stan Anderson met a little more than two years ago. After realizing they should cement that bond, they exchanged vows a few weeks ago. As always, we hope you enjoy this issue, and naturally welcome your story ideas for consideration. Stephen H. Cowles Staff Writer Western Tidewater Living

western tidewater living

contents summer 2017 Cover photograph by Stephen H. Cowles

ON THE COVER: This 1951 yellow Mercury shines like the sun and rides like a dream thanks the loving restoration done by Ernie and Juanita Sydnor of Boykins.

Western Tidewater

Living

Tony Clark Publisher Stephen H. Cowles Staff Writer Stephen Faleski Staff Writer

INSIDE THIS EDITION

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PARTY PIX

A cotillion, senior citizens’ meeting and Relay for Life have been popular events in Western Tidewater.

A CENTURY OF GRACE

The congregation of this United Methodist church in Sedley is dedicated to God and one another.

where am I?

In each edition, our magazine staff provides a challenge of sorts for readers, testing how much of Western Tidewater they really know. We photograph a scene in Western Tidewater that is visible to motorists or pedestrians. Whoever can identify the location pictured above will be entered for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate. So, if you discover where this edition’s photo was taken, let us know. If you’re right, you could be a winner. Email your answers to magazine@tidewaternews.com Get out there and enjoy Western Tidewater!

Allan Lassiter, formerly of Boykins, correctly guessed that the picture Stephen H. Cowles took for the spring issue is of the water tank in Newsoms, “The Home of Jumbo Peanuts.”

Merle Monahan Contributing Writer Ryan Outlaw Lead Designer Loretta Lomax Designer Crystal Parker Designer

Tell us where our photographer took this photo and get a chance to win a gift certificate.

“I didn’t want to live without her.” Jenna Lusk and Stan Anderson exchange vows by the sea.

TREASURE ON WHEELS See the sleek and shiny rides several area residents have been lovingly and painstakingly restoring over the years.

Mitzi Lusk Advertising Director Sameerah Brown Advertising Representative Rachel Parker Advertising Representative Michelle Gray 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 ads@tidewaternews.com. Subscriptions are $20 annually in-state, $24 annually out of state and $30 annually overseas.

CATCHING UP WITH...

50 western tidewater living

Former Newsoms resident DeShon N. Rollins, who is successfully making a life of dancing and teaching.

CHRISTMAS IN JULY

Woodcarver uses summer to create holiday ornaments

who am I? In this issue, we’ve begun what’s hoped to be a regular feature. In addition to asking for identification of objects and places in Western Tidewater, we’re now asking readers to identify other people. Whoever can identify the person pictured here will be entered for a chance to win a $25 gift certificate. So, if you know where this issue’s photo was taken, let us know. If you’re right, you could be a winner. Email your answers to magazine@tidewaternews.com.

Tell us who is featured in this photograph and get a chance to win a gift certificate.

6 western tidewater living

party pix

Debutante Cotillion Top left: Yvonne Hill, left, with her friend, Yvonne James. They attended the 2017 Cotillion on June 3. Top right: In front, from left, Reneeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Rose and Beverly Washington-Williams; back, Deborah Powell and Kayce Powell and Tahirah Powell. Bottom left: Alexis Bernard, left, with Lauren Lee, who is holding Alaina Lee. Bottom right: Regina, Kendra and Kenneth Zollicoffer after the debutantes were presented. PHOTOS BY STEPHEN H. COWLES

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Ivor Baptist Seniors Top left: Alcyone and Donald Babb of Ivor. Middle left: From left, Alice Joyner of Ivor and Margaret Simms of Sedley. Bottom left: Betty Garner of Sedley and Sue Garner of Ivor. Bottom right: From left, Ruth Shepphard from Wakefield and Alice Oaks of Ivor. PHOTOS BY MERLE MONAHAN

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Isle of Wight Relay For Life Top left: Cyndi Banks and Jackie Banks with photos of their father, Joe B. Banks, whom they honored at Isle of Wight Academy’s Relay for Life in June. Top right: Elsie Banks, who is with the Temple Grove Walking Warriors. Bottom left: Breon Lee, left, and Malik Lee, right. Bottom right: Jasmine Blackwell and Cyndi Banks, members of the Relay for Life team “Temple Grove Walking Warriors.” PHOTOS BY STEPHEN FALESKI

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Franklin-Southampton Relay For Life Top left: Representing Keurig Green Mountain Inc. at the Franklin-Southampton Relay For Life on June 3 are Debbie Agate, Noe Flores and Anthony Buchanan. Top right: Members of Pleasant Plain Baptist Church in Dreweryville. Bottom left: Billie Turner, left, and Elizabeth Drewry. Bottom right: The crew from Century 21 in Franklin. Seated is Angela Denson. Standing from left are Karen Spivey, Debbie Carter, Megan Freeman, Marry and Darren Stauffer and Darlene Smithwick. PHOTOS BY STEPHEN H. COWLES

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where am I?

Allan Lassiter, formerly of Boykins, correctly guessed that the picture Stephen H. Cowles took for the spring issue is of the water tank in Newsoms, “The Home of Jumbo Peanuts.”

western tidewater living

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A Centu

This painting shows Grace Memorial UMC as it first looked before an electrical fire destroyed it at Christmastime in 1986.

western tidewater living

ury of Grace

This United Methodist congregation in Sedley has been a family dedicated to God and one another

22 western tidewater living

story by Stephen H. Cowles photos by Anne W. Bryant

Several months ago, I was asked to write about Grace Memorial United Methodist Church and its upcoming centennial celebration. Wanting to get what one might call a “feel” for the place, a visit seemed in order. Arriving after worship, I got to sit in on a Sunday School class. The portion of members in the room made insightful remarks to the selected study, and quickly I felt comfortable enough to participate in the discussion, and afterward I was invited to return anytime. In fact, it seemed fitting to attend the church again, this time to witness the Rev. Rita Kanten deliver her final sermon as pastor, of which she’s been for seven years. To be sure, it was a touching moment to witness. Referencing her words, inspired by Paul’s letter in Corinthians 2, Kanten said, “The folks of Grace became my family. For the last seven years we’ve said goodbye to those who loved the Lord. We will always miss them.” She added that “churches have to be more than families,” meaning they must go out to share the news about Jesus Christ — his birth, life, death, resurrection and eventual return. “In the end, it’s not the pastor, it’s the people,” Kanten said. “It’s been my joy to serve God and to be your friend and family,” and assured the congregation that wouldn’t stop even if she was no longer

“It’s the people.”

western tidewater living

These church artifacts include a chalic, newsclipping and hymnal.

with them. 11 “Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.” — Corinthians 2 13:11 ••• There are two halves to this story. One is a synopsis of the church’s history, and this half features reminiscences from a few members who either grew up in the church, or became a part of the family one way or another. • Gina Hancock said her husband, Chris, grew up in the church, but she joined when marrying him at 24. Both their daughters, Nicole and Kelly Hancock, have also been lifetime members to date. The latter is scheduled to marry this summer in the church. “I remember children’s programs where Miss Ethel Fenimore would play the piano and sing “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” as the children would pass out candy canes to the congregation,” Gina said, and added that’s

a tradition that resumed this past year. “It’s a church that loves children and is very concerned about raising them up in faith and with God. My daughters have been very blessed to be members of and have the support of the church,” she continued. “One of their fondest memories is the tree at Christmas having their names [on ornaments],” said Gina. That’s another tradition that goes way back; even her husband’s name can be found. ••• Audrey Hancock entered the congregation when she was 18 and married Smitty Hancock in a ceremony at home. Before, she belonged to the Quaker church in Corinth. “It was quite different,” Audrey remembered with a chuckle about the service style. “I was the teacher for the primary class at church for 50 years. Family Day, I helped get that started, she said, adding there’s been involvement in annual

Church's 100 years made up of many more people [Editor’s note: Various sources contributed to this history, including Margaret Baugham, Lynn Burgess and the late Virgie Mae Williams, to name a few.] To think that it all started with a Sunday School class. That was the seed when a dedicated group of people from various denominations — Baptists, Christians, Methodists and Friends (Quakers) — was meeting in Sedley Graded School as early as 1910. Then four years later as a Methodist Sunday School. While visiting relatives in Sedley during August 1915, the Rev. E.K Odell of South Boston was asked to lead a revival, which awakened the

24 western tidewater living

spirit in many who attended. He reportedly gave back the $25 collected, saying that it should be used for whenever people decided they wanted to build a sanctuary. In gratitude, it was decided to name the church after the pastor’s wife, Julia Grace Burgess Odell, who had died just a couple of weeks before his visit. She already had a tie to the village through a sister, Mrs. R.L. Raiford. A stroke of apoplexy is cited as the reason for Grace’s death at 35, leaving behind her husband and a son. She was buried locally. There were 15 charter members, and eight men in March the following year met with the Rev. W.L. Burke .to talk about building. Money was raised, plans were made and by 11 a.m. on Sunday, April 29, 1917, Burke delivered the first sermon. The cornerstone was laid on June 26, 1917. Through the decades that followed, many pastors came, made their mark and then were guided to lead other congregations. The church expanded to include Sunday School classrooms — of course — a kitchen and fellowship hall, etc. A parsonage was even built. All the histories make a point to mention Virgie Williams, who was the first historian and one of the first 15 members. She has been described as the church matriarch and “a friend and advisor to anyone in need.” After her death on April 23, 1972, her

Lynn Burgess, left, and Shirley Creasy examine an ewer formerly used by past congregations.

events, ice cream socials, field trips for the children and the like. Audrey said that when the work began on the new church, she watched the building many many times. “It was nice to watch it going up.” Through the decades there have been lots of ministers. “We miss them and hate to see them go,” she said on June 11 after the Rev. Kanten gave her final sermon after seven years as the pastor. Overall, Grace Memorial is a place where she feels she belongs. “I feel like it’s my church family. It’s one big family We all love one another and enjoy each other’s company — we love to get together and have covereddish dinners — and praising God together,” said Audrey. ••• Margaret Baugham said she’s been a member for approximately 73 years, and has been active in many ministries through those decades and also seen quite a number of changes. “I’ve certainly watched many people grow up here — births, marriages … my three children grew up in the church,” said Baugham.

Like Audrey, she’s also witnessed many ministers come and go. “It’s sad, but they made a contribution to all of us,” Baugham added. ••• • June Dunlow said one of her earliest memories is being baptized in the first church when she was 14 or 15 years old. At Christmastime, she played Mary for the Nativity scenes. Her husband, Bobby, came to the church when they married 48 years ago. In the mid-1980s, she said, there were young adults, 25 or more, who formed three volleyball teams, and even took turns looking after one another’s children during games. Afterward, everyone would go out to dinner. “It was a very special time for us through the mid-80s. We were very active,” Dunlow said. Her strongest memory, though, is when the church burned down on Dec. 26, 1986. Two days before, Sedley Baptist Church members had been guests for the Christmas Eve service. She was in charge of the lighted candles, and afterward ensured the lights were extinguished.

western tidewater living

“I thought it was my fault, that I had forgotten a candle, and struggled with that until two or three days later. The fire chief confirmed it was an electrical issue.” That aside, through, “I have a lot of good memories,” she said. “Our church is a very welcoming and loving church.” Indeed.

legacy enabled a sanctuary renovation a few years later. Other members of note include: • Harvey Johnson Hubbard Jr., whose endowment fund enabled the building of a carillon, garden, steeple and parking lot. • Warren and Dot Beale, longtime dedicated members. • Herbert and Sue Chappell, once voted as “The Methodist Family of Virginia.” • Ethel Irene Fenimore, an associate member who, “could make a piano ROCK!” (Jane Joyner now leads the congregation to make a joyful noise unto the Lord.) One Mother’s Day, she stood up and asked her children to stand. Everyone in the congregation rose to the occasion. • Roy Carl Drake grew up in Grace Memorial, and eventually went on to become a pastor. The church did have an earlier brush with fire on Feb. 15, 1961, which was discovered by Mrs. J.D. Owen. The Rev. James M. Coney was visiting at the time and is credited with saving the building by tightly shutting the doors to keep the flames from spreading. An electrical issue sparked the fire that destroyed the building on Dec. 26, 1986. Virginia Hancock was quoted telling her fellow distraught parishioners, “That building is not our Church, the people are and we will survive!” A new sanctuary had been built and the first worship took place on Sept.

10, 1989. In the meantime, the congregation had been gathering at Woodman Hall for services. The 100th anniversary of Grace Memorial United Methodist Church was first celebrated on Saturday, April 29, at 5:30 p.m., with music, a presentation of the history and dinner. The anniversary continued that Sunday with worship and lunch. On June 11, the Rev. Rita Kanten bid farewell to the congregation. She had decided it was time for her retire the pastorship. The Rev. Will Slone is anticipated as the next leader.

26 western tidewater living

treasure

on wheels story by Stephen H. Cowles

America’s love of cars goes back decades — practically since they were invented. Even today, collectors live for riding a dream vehicle, perhaps a convertible from the 1950s, or a hot rod dating back to the 1960s or 1970s. Then there are the restorers always on the lookout for a favorite make or model that’s in need of their tender loving care. Ernest and Juanita Sydnor of Boykins are a prime example of the latter. The couple that rebuilds cars together stays together, and they’ve been at it since the early 1980s. “I picked it up from him,” Juanita said, pointing to Ernie, who was seated nearby under the shade. The “it” of course being the hobby of cutting, sanding, re-upholstering, painting, etc. The Sydnors have found cars on the junk heap or about to be crushed and given truly given them new life. At the first Cruise-In of the year, they brought in their bright cherry red 1950 Ford christened “Maybelline.” In the parking lot, she pointed out how they cut — chopped — into the car to lower and curve the back windows. The car was used in the movie “Deuce Coup,” said Juanita. Such projects aren’t done in a matter of hours, days or weeks, but have taken months. One car needed 1 ½ years of work. Although there has been some outside assistance, said Ernie, the two couple did the majority in the

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A 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air convertible belonging to Billy Piersa of Hunterdale. He found the car in a newspaper advertisement in 1987, bought it and began the upgrade, complete with fuzzy dice and hood ornament.

western tidewater living

Billy Piersa

double-car garage at their home. Unfortunately, his health has taken a downturn of late, preventing him from doing any more restoring. Still, they have a worthy collection featuring a restored Studebaker, a 1954 Ford pickup truck and even married the back end of Volkswagen beetle with the front end of a Kawasaki motorcycle, complete with two seats from a boat. Even then, finding classic cars worthy of salvaging has become increasingly difficult, said Ernie. “It’s been a lot of fun over the years,” he added. ••• Tuck Hartman of Black Creek found a 1948 Studebaker that was rusted, faded and fallen apart. “Looking through Craigslist, he found a car that was over in the Little Creek area of Norfolk. “I just wanted an old vehicle,” he said. “It was bad, real bad.” Having decided to rebuild it, a first for him, he worked on it all by himself … with maybe some help from his two sons. Four years later, Tuck had transformed it into a shiny laser blue dream. “Everything’s customized,” he said. For the time being, though, Tuck doesn’t see himself doing another such project in the near future. ••• Among the collectors you can meet at the Cruise-In are Billy Piersa, who said he found his 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air convertible through a newspaper ad back in 1987. To get it, Bill drove to Louisville, Kentucky. ••• Brandon Keeter of Franklin took a Subaru Tecnica Intl. 571 back in 2007 and two years later, rebuilt it motor and all. ••• “I’ve always wanted a Corvette all my life,” said Lynn Turner of Franklin, who found his 1957 Chevrolet Corvette back in 2001. He was going to sell it at one point, but obviously changed his mind. Since retiring, there’s more time to enjoy the ride. ••• Robert Cullipher comes in from Chesapeake to bring his 1936 Ford Convertible. Inside, the hardtop has three windows and no back seat.

30 western tidewater living

Tuck Hartman of Black Creek stands beside his laser blue chariot, which he brought to show off at the first Cruise-In of the year in Downtown Franklin. At left, photos of the condition of the 1948 Studebacker M5 that he purchased some years ago. Photos courtesy of Tuck Hartman

Above is a 1954 Ford Pickup, which was rebuilt by Juanita and Ernest Sydnor. To get the design running around the car, a piece of lace was used as a stencil. Right: a close-up of the detailed lace design.

western tidewater living

••• Also through Craigslist, Robert Bradshaw of Suffolk found a Chevelle ‘66, which has 350 horsepower. He calls it “a good cruising car.” He has had a ‘55 Chevrolet and ‘66 Mustang, but now is done to just the one vehicle. To learn more about these cars and the people who drive them, drop by the Cruise-In, which takes place each Wednesday at 5 p.m. in Downtown Franklin. Look For more details on the calendar page located inside this magazine. 

Above and left: Ernie and Juanita Sydnore welded a 1986 Kawasaki motorcycle to the back of a 1974 Super Beetle Volkswagen. Boat seats were added to carry passengers.

Above and below: The steering column and half of the dashboard in this 1941 Studebaker are original, with the other half taken from another model. All that you see is primarily the work of the Sydnors done at their home.

Above: An interior shot of the ‘54 Ford pickup. The dashboard includes two yellow speakers and a cassette player.

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western tidewater living

DeShon Rollins story by Stephen H. Cowles

The 25-year-old DeShon Niajhi Rollins has good reason to smile. He's heavily involved in teaching at two different dance academies — Commonwealth Dance Arts Academy in Petersburg and Deborah School of Dance in Dinwiddie. He also belongs to the company of Latin Ballet in Richmond. Photo courtesy of Azari O'Neil Photography

When DeShon Niajhi Rollins from Newsoms was in The Tidewater News on March 6, 2011, he was being featured as the first male cheerleader for Southampton High School in 16 years. At the time Rollins was considering studies in political science with a view of becoming a lawyer after graduation. That didn’t happen. He quickly realized that path was not for him at Virginia State University in Petersburg. Instead, Rollins focused on earning a bachelor of science degree in health and physical education with a concentration in dance, which is his real passion. Knowing how the body moves and operates, he said, has helped him both in performing and teaching. In addition to his enthusiastic acrobatics as a cheerleader, he jumped, leapt and ran about on the high school tennis courts. “I found that one sport,” said Rollins, who was a team captain. “That was a great experience.”

DeShon Rollins does an aerial split during a Lady Indians' playoff game. This was taken while he was a Southampton High School senior cheerleader in 2011.

He also acknowledged that personal success came through the teaching and support of coaches Larry Rose and the late Raymond Parker. Graduating cum laude from VSU, he went on to become involved with the Commonwealth Dance Arts Academy in Petersburg and Richmond. Annie

Harris, the CDAA director, said she was introduced to him through Benita Brown, who directs the dance program at the university. “I feel he’s a very technical and skilled dancer as far as training,” said Harris. “He’s come a long way for someone who didn’t have a previous foundation. That

34 western tidewater living

DeShon Niajhi Rollins, originally from Newsoms, has been living his passion of dancing and teaching and, yes, earning a living as well. Photo courtesy of Kelsey Callahan.

started at VSU. I must say it feels now that he’s blossomed … he danced at my father’s funeral.” “I really thank VSU for giving me the experience. I did learn a lot from Virginia State. — ballet terminology, history …,” said Rollins, furthermore giving God credit. “I used what He gave me, and molded me into the dancer I am now.” At the academy he’s the company rehearsal director, and been teaching acrobatics, jazz, contemporary dance, baton and majorette dancing. Harris went to say that he’s “amazing” with a baton. In addition to working at CDAA, Rollins has been teaching acrobatics and jazz at the Deborah School of Dance in Dinwiddie since fall 2016.

“He’s just awesome. A fabulous teacher,” said owner and director Deborah Ryan. “He’s good all around.” Two years ago, an opportunity to study with the famed Joffrey Ballet presented itself, and Harris encouraged him to audition, which she confirmed. In fact, six or seven of the students tried out with him at Joffrey Miami, and then he went on to New York. “I definitely did. He was very successful and left me for awhile; he’s back temporarily,” she said, adding that one day he’ll spread his wings further to new opportunities. Thinking first he was there for a summer intensive course, Rollins found out it was actually a training course, which lasted from fall of 2015 to spring 2016.

“I got a full experience of what it takes to be a real dancer,” he recalled. “It was very tough. Very resourceful. Very intense training, but at the end of the day they [the company] show they care. It was just amazing.” He also got to study under Mary Barnett at a Philadanco Dance Intensive, but after having been robbed at gunpoint in Philadelphia, he came home. ••• As Harris just stated, Rollins did not come to VSU with a trained background. Where then did the desire — the need — to dance begin? “Dancing in church,” he said. “I did spiritual mime and praise dancing, which is where I really started to dance.” The son of Owen and Phyllis Rollins and William Chambliss, and brother of Termaine Rollins and Latasha RollinsBoone, he’s the only one in the family who dances for a living. While growing up in Newsoms he learned about music in middle school, getting “a sense of dancing” and thinking “I want to do that.” As a youth, Rollins also learned tumbling at the Triple T Sports Center in Suffolk, which gave him a background for his later cheerleading abilities such as twirling a baton, even one that’s on fire. “It started with a stick. I taught myself,” he said. All that’s gotten him the opportunity to perform at an Atlanta Falcons game as well as his picture in The Washington Post about VSU’s “Trojan Explosion.” Renowned dancers and choreographers such as Alvin Ailey and Arthur Mitchell have been people who have really inspired him. Rollins recalls seeing a televised performance of Ailey’s “Sinner Man.” “Very powerful,” he recalled thinking. “Wow! These guys are amazing!” •••

western tidewater living

Many people can dance, but how many can do this? This picture was taken of DeShon at Virginia Beach. Submitted by DeShon Rollins.

Earlier this past spring, Rollins joined Latin Ballet in Richmond. After seeing an ad for auditions, he sent a resume and video, and then got tickets to see what the company does in performance. “Latin Ballet lets you be your own artist,” he said, describing it as a contemporary company that includes Flamenco, salsa and Cuban styles in its performances. Invited to rehearsal, he auditioned in front of company. “The atmosphere was very relaxed,” Rollins said. “The next thing I know, I was part of the company.” Ana Ines King, artistic director and founder of the Latin Ballet of Virginia, had this to say about her newest member: “He applied for a position that was open with Latin Ballet ... his background and body type matched exactly with what we were looking for. DeShon has a lot of potential. He is very theatrical, a quick learner and hungry to learn a variety of other styles of dance, which

makes him an attractive dancer for what the Latin Ballet does related to our mission and vision.” Rollins said he’s been in four shows so far, including a solo. ••• All that accounts for just about every waking hour and then some in his life. “My schedule and intensity have made me value dance that much more. It’s hard, but worth having,” he said. “I’m very blessed to be teaching. I’m able to make a life of dancing and teaching. I hope to be able to go on to be worldphenomenal teacher and share my talents worldwide and keep the culture alive.” To which he included inspiring and mentoring young dancers. Rollins wants them to be trained correctly and know their options in how to succeed in dance. “We have technique for a reason,” he said. “To show the correct way of doing things, to prevent injuries as well as pushing the aesthetic.” No matter how well trained, though, a dancer can still get ailments and in-

juries. Rollins said he’s developed bone spurs in his feet, sprained a toe and torn hamstrings. He also admits even he could use some retraining. In dance, you’re “always growing and always learning … living in a realm of constant evolution,” he said. Part of what’s driven Rollins has been all those people who doubted him all these years and said, “We never thought you’d be this dancer.” He also referred to a scene in the movie “Pursuit of Happyness,” in which the father tells his son that if he’s got a dream, he shouldn’t let people tell him he can’t achieve it. “That was a very inspiring quote to myself,” said Rollins. “I wake up every morning thinking ‘I’m going to work pretty damn hard.’” To learn more about the company for which he dances and follow his career, visit him at www.latinballet.com. You can also Rollins dancing and cheering in several videos posted on YouTube as well as visiting his Instagram account Niajhi_dance. 

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Christmas starts in July Courtland wood carver Bill Vick uses summer to create ornaments for craft show story and photos by Stephen Faleski

When Courtland resident Bill Vick was in the ninth grade, his wood shop teacher turned the class loose in the school’s shop, allowing them to create whatever they wanted. That was Vick’s first exposure to woodworking, a hobby he has enjoyed ever since. Vick chose to create a lamp during that first lesson, carved from local cedar wood. A few years later, around 1968, he purchased his first saw and carved a geometric wooden star that still hangs in his house to this day. But now, he prefers to devote his efforts to more specialized woodworking disciplines, namely segmented bowls and scroll saw Christmas ornaments. “Even when teaching school, I would most likely end up in the shop when I had a free period,” Vick said. At the moment, he is putting the finishing touches on several new Christmas tree ornaments and window decorations he intends to debut at the Albemarle

Craft Show in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, which will take place over a three-day period from Oct. 27 through 29. The Albemarle Craft Show is the biggest regional craft show in which Vick participates, and requires that he jury in before exhibiting. That is part of the reason why he chooses his Christmas ornaments as his main attraction. “You have to show how you do your work, so it’s easier to take a scroll saw than a table saw,” he said. He also uses the opportunity to network with other woodcrafters and learn new techniques. According to Vick, who operates under the business name “Red Barn Crafts” at shows, there are typically only four woodcrafters who regularly exhibit at the Albemarle Craft Show, but only one besides him does scroll saw work. “And he does totally different work than what I do,” Vick said. A scroll saw uses a thin blade to cut in-

“Even when teaching school, I would most likely end up in the shop when I had a free period,”

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Vickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most complex scroll saw pattern, which requires over 400 individually drilled holes. Vick then uses his scroll saw to expand the holes into the shape of the pattern.

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Vick demonstrates how individual pieces of wood are cut at 15-degree angles and glued in place to make a circle.

Vick demonstrates how small wood blocks are glued together and then layered in concentric circles to form the shape that will eventually become a wooden bowl. The dark highlights in the accent ring are made from ebony wood, imported from Africa.

tricate curves into wood or to expand drilled holes into small, precision designs. Vick’s most elaborate scroll saw work to-date is a steam engine wall ornament, which he created by drilling and expanding over 400 individual holes. His segmented bowls, on the other hand, are made using dozens of small blocks of wood, cut at 15-degree angles, and a wood turner. The blocks are glued together to form polygonal shapes with varying numbers of sides and then layered on top of one another in concentric circles to form the beginning of a bowl. The bowl is then placed onto the wood turner, which functions like a pottery wheel, and sanded smooth to produce a perfectly round shape. Vick added that he never uses any types of stain to make his bowls, and that the differences in color on his bowls’ accent rims are the result of his using different types of wood. To produce the mahoganylike color seen in some of his inventory, Vick used ebony, which is a very expensive dark wood imported from Africa. “So use it sparingly and try not to waste it,” he said. White holly is another type of wood Vick uses to accent his bowls, which he says also carries a high cost because as soon as you cut it, you have to put it in a kiln and dry it to keep it white. Otherwise, it will develop streaks of gray. The rest of his wood, he either buys locally or receives from friends and family. “You’d be surprised how many people bring me wood,” he said. Vick said he got into making bowls and ornaments initially because the cost to purchase enough quality equipment to do every type of woodworking would have been prohibitive. He also simply preferred it over making larger items like furniture. “I’ve never wanted to do furniture, though I made some cabinets for my kids,” he said, adding that he will occasionally take on special projects by request, such as a recent one he received to repair someone’s chair, but he primarily does bowls and ornaments. “I did about a thousand ornaments last year and sold almost all of them,” he said. “Someone said, ‘You ought to be rich.’ You don’t get rich doing this, but you have fun, and that’s the key.” 

western tidewater living

A selection of Bill Vick’s handiwork A completed Christmas tree ornament.

One of Vick’s early attempts at woodworking, which he created in the late 1960s.

Musical instrument Christmas ornaments, created following requests from Vick’s customers.

The first wooden bowl that Vick ever created.

New Christmas ornaments that Vick plans to sell this year.

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what to do WEDNESDAYS Cruise-In: Beginning at 5 p.m., see antique and classic cars at their finest, and meet the people who drive them. The display takes place in Downtown Franklin. This continues through Sept. 6. Raffle tickets will be sold each week for the chance to win a 2012 Mustang Convertible. Raffle tickets available at Blake Ford, Bobby’s Tire & Auto, Franklin Cruise-In, and several partnering businesses. For details, call Mike Smith at 438-2981; Ray Smith at 621-8956; email franklincruisein@yahoo.com; Facebook at Franklin Cruise-In. Franklin’s Market on Main: Open from 4 to 7 p.m. Fresh seafood, such as crab, fish, shrimp and more, as well as vinegars, salad mixes, produce, jams, honey, homemade soaps and eggs. Concessions will include grilled hot dogs, smoked sausages, French fries, funnel cakes, a variety of popcorn and cold drinks. Children’s activities will include a petting zoo and pony rides through September. Live music will be provided by Justin Luke McCurry on July 5 and Sept. 6.

THURSDAYS We Be Jammin’: The annual concert series continues through the summer. All shows last from 6 to 10 p.m., will be on Thursdays at Barrett’s Landing Park on South Main Street in downtown Franklin. JULY 6: Steve Owens & Summertime JULY 13: Feature Attraction JULY 20: Hickory Knoll JULY 27: Jim Quick & Coastline AUG. 3: Blackwater Rhythm & Blues AUG. 10: No WBJ for Fair Week AUG. 17: Hog Bear AUG. 24: Midnight Allie AUG. 31: Silver Street For details, call 562-6900 or visit www.downtownfranklinva.org.

SATURDAYS Franklin’s Market on Main: Open from 9 to 1 p.m. through October. Fresh seafood, such as crab, fish, shrimp and more, as well as vinegars, salad mixes, produce, jams, honey, homemade soaps and eggs. Concessions will include grilled hot dogs,

Cruise-In smoke sausages, French fries, funnel cakes, a variety of popcorns and cold drinks. Children’s activities will include a petting zoo and pony rides through September. The Blackwater Regional Library will be present on July 1.

IN JULY AND AUGUST Artisan Market: 1st Saturday for Artisan Market, Capron, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Corner of Highway 58 & Main Street, 18001 Southampton Parkway at Gallery 1606. This is a monthly free exhibition and sales event. Artisans and crafters featuring specialties in stained glass, wearable art, jewelry, metal art, turned wood, garden art, quilts, pallet furniture, demonstrations and more. There’s no fee for a space. but reservations are required. For more information, email gallery1606@gmail.com, or call Lynette Allston 434-658-4454.

TUESDAY, JULY 4 Boykins: Food, crafts, games and a dunking booth will be featured in the town’s celebration of Independence Day. The fun takes place at the mini park from 1 to 4 p.m., and is sponsored by the Main Street Initiative. For details, call Linda Beatty at 653-2200. Newsoms: Mayor Vanless Worrell said a parade is being planned for 4 p.m. A car show is also in the making. Call him at 654-9442 for details.

Windsor: The Town of Windsor will have its annual Independence Day celebration beginning at 5 p.m. Church Street will be closed from the intersection at Route 460 to the entrance to Windsor High School beginning at 4:30 p.m. Handicap parking will be available in the Duke Street parking lot, accessible from Court Street to A Street to Duke Street. Attendees are asked to bring a dessert to share and to bring a chair or towel. The timing of events may be moved up if inclement weather is approaching. No pets allowed. For details, call 242-4288.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 9 Cruise-In Grand Finale: From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., get another look at antique and classic cars of yesteryear. The drawing for the 2012 Mustang Convertible will be at 3 p.m. Raffle tickets available at Blake Ford, Bobby’s Tire & Auto, Franklin Cruise-In, and several partnering businesses. For details, call Mike Smith at 438-2981; Ray Smith at 621-8956; email franklincruisein@yahoo. com; Facebook at Franklin Cruise-In.

SATURDAY, SEPT. 30

African-American Festival: The Franklin

Parks and Recreation Department will have the African-American Festival on Saturday, Sept. 30, at Barrett’s Landing Park, Franklin. This an annual event celebrates the history, culture, education, heritage and the arts of AfricanAmericans. For more information, call 562-2475.

42 western tidewater living

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Top left: Southampton High School Prom Queen Brittany Williams and Prom King Isaiah Lankford. Top right: Seniors at Southampton High School, Erin Rountree and Cameron Seal. Bottom left: Rhiannon Griffith and David Espelin before heading to the prom at Southampton High School. Bottom center: Samantha Albert, the 2017 Windsor High Prom Queen, and Jason Banks get ready for the Windsor High School Prom in Smithfield. Bottom right: Seniors at Southampton Academy, Carter Grant Brittle and Jordan Leigh Marks

44 western tidewater living

'I didn't want to live witho story by Stephen H. Cowles

photos by Shelby Matthews Photography

When Jenna Marie Lusk and Stanley “Stan” Ames Anderson married on June 2, their love was the culmination of a friendship that turned into an unexpected romance. “We had worked together at The Village at Woods Edge for 2 and a half years. Our friendship was fun and light-hearted. I never planned on getting married again, then bam! God had other plans for me... for us,” said Stan. Their friendship eventually grew into whirlwind romance that took them both by surprise. “It’s like one day I think she’s cute, then the next thing I know I’m hearing ‘You may now kiss your bride.’” “The first time I saw her, I melted. She had her hair in a ponytail and bright red lipstick on, I went weak in the knees” Stan recalled with a laugh. “He’s a funny guy” Jenna said with a smile, “But really, he has a great personality, makes me laugh and is ‘kind of cute.’” When asked what was the moment she fell in love with Stan, Jenna couldn’t remember a particular time, she just recalled knowing in her heart that Stan was the man for her. “I couldn’t image my life with anyone else. He is super romantic, very

loving. He’s constantly surprising me with some type of sweet little gesture on a daily basis, he’s a classic old-school romantic and I’m one lucky girl!” said Jenna. He, however, remembered the very moment when he knew. “Jenna had gone out of town for Thanksgiving, and had stayed gone for two more days of Black Friday shopping, it was the longest four days of my life. I knew I had fallen in love and didn’t want to live without her. I was miserable,” said Stan. “Some thought it was too soon. We had only actually dated for four months, but neither of us wanted to wait to start our life together,” said Stan. To summon up the courage to propose, he took her to dinner and afterward they walked around a mall. On the drive home, he poured his heart out to her on how she made him feel, and how much he loved her. “I hinted around, and then chickened out,” said Stan, “Finally, I got the courage up. We had just gotten to my house and she was sitting in the exact same spot she was when I knew I wanted to make her my wife. As I was telling her how much she means to me and how I wanted to spend my life with

her, I paused again... That’s when Jenna looked at me and said ‘that would have made the perfect proposal’ it was then that I pulled the ring out of my pocket, took a knee and asked her to marry me. She cried and said yes. I cried too, I’m not going to lie.” An intimate wedding was performed on the beach at Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, followed by a small gathering of family and friends for their reception the next day at Kings Landing Shoppes in Murfreesboro. Stan’s son, Noah, from a previous marriage, was able to attend making their wedding complete. “It was better than I could have imagined,” said Jenna. “Mom did a great job of pulling it all together with the help of our families and friends. We can’t thank everyone enough for making our wedding and reception so magical.” “Everything was perfect,” he added. While some people stick to traditional ceremonies, that was not for this couple. From leaving the ceremony and riding off into the night in a dune buggy to the “place your bet cake-smash” at the reception, they certainly made it a wedding to remember. Following a honeymoon to Nassau and Freeport in the Bahamas, the couple has returned to where they’re living

western tidewater living

out her' hout

Pastor David Ross of Ashley Grove Baptist Church in Conway, North Carolina, officiated the ceremony by the sea for Jenna and Stan. Ross has been Stanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pastor for 26 years. With them is Noah, Stanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s son.

Stan plants the perfect kiss on his bride, Jenna.

Courtney Manning, Shelby Lowery, Stan and Jenna Anderson, Ames Anderson, Jake Lusk.

46 western tidewater living

in Conway, North Carolina. She’ll resume waitressing at the Village, with hopes to return to school to become a physical therapist assistant and he owns and operates his own business, Sunnydaze Handyman Service. Jenna is the daughter of Jimmy and Mitzi Lusk of Sedley, Virginia. She is also the maternal granddaughter of Gloria and Hollet Warner of Westminster, Colorado, and J.R. and Debbie Seibold of Allyn, Washington. Paternal grandparents are Ronnie and Madge Lusk of Sedley. Stan is the son of Ames and Sandy Anderson of Conway, North Carolina. He is the maternal grandson of the late Stanley Sauls and Eloise Sauls, who lived in Conway. Paternal grandparents are Margaret Anderson of Rocky Mount, North Carolina, and the late Austin Anderson. A note from the bride’s mother: “I’d like to personally say a special thank-you to Shelby Matthews of Shelby Matthews Photography for capturing these special moments over the course of two days; to Kings Landing Shoppes for accommodating our every whim; and to Ashley Blythe for the most delicious wedding cake ever, and Kilby’s Florist for everything they did. But most importantly, to the family and friends that said to me ‘Just breathe, we got this.’ We love you each with all our hearts, we couldn’t have done it without you.” Top: Four generations were represented at this wedding as the bride wore her greatgrandmother’s floating opal necklace and earring set. The bouquet was custom-designed for the bride. Middle: With the ‘I do’s,’ they became a family of three. Stan and Jenna enjoyed sharing this special day with his son, Noah. Bottom: Stan and Jenna rode off in style in a dune buggy, complete with picnic basket provided by Jenna’s aunt and uncle, Teresa and Dean Lowery.

western tidewater living

Looks like someone’s going to get cake fed to him, even though it’ll be on his face.

Sandy Anderson and her son, Stan, shared an emotional dance during the reception.

For the Place your bet cake-smash, Stan gets wedding cake “delicately” served to him after having lost the bet of who could raise the most money for the honeymoon.

Jenna and her dad, Jimmy, lovingly danced to “I loved her first.”

Even Stan’s son, Noah, enjoyed a piece of cake for himself.

48 western tidewater living

The Town of Windsor The Hidden Jewel of Western Tidewater

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50 western tidewater living

Pecht Distributors, Inc. 514 New Street, Lawrenceville, VA 23868

SEN TA R A C A NCER NE T WO R K

IN S UFFO LK

Attacking Cancer with Precision Targeted Therapy INTRODUCING: STEREOTACTIC RADIOSURGERY Residents of Suffolk and nearby communities have been trusting the nationally accredited Sentara Cancer Network for years. With comprehensive cancer services and physicians together under one roof, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re providing advanced treatment and care in the warm, community spirit of Sentara Obici Hospital. The recent addition of Stereotactic Radiosurgery â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a form of radiation oncology used for precision targeted therapy -- means that even more care can be delivered close to home.

Collaboration of skilled providers and coordinated care is helping more and more patients become survivors.

To learn more call: (888) 220-2214 or visit Sentara.com/Cancer

Sentara.com/Cancer

Your community, not-for-profit health partner