Suffolk Living Sept./Oct. 2011 edition

suffolklivingmag.com

At home in Suffolk Strange Homes, Guys with TIes And PET Getaways

september/october 2011 • vol. 2, no. 4

“HoLy CoW” Are you Ready To

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4 suffolk living

Advanced imaging

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W H E N YO U N E E D A D VA N C E D I MAG I N G , S E N TA R A H A S YO U CO V E R E D.

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hether it’s a simple X-ray or a 3T MRI, imaging technology often plays an essential role in the delivery of quality healthcare. At Sentara, we make sure it’s also convenient. Sentara offers advanced imaging services at 15 locations throughout Hampton Roads, including nearby Sentara Obici Hospital, Sentara BelleHarbour in North Suffolk, and Sentara St. Luke’s in Isle of Wight.

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Your imaging results become part of your electronic medical record, which goes with you wherever you go within Sentara. In addition, we demonstrate our commitment to keeping you safe by meeting and exceeding all relevant radiation safety standards.

When you choose Sentara, the latest advanced imaging technology is never far away. Ask your physician for a referral or visit sentara.com/imaging for more information.

contents | fall 2011

EDITORIAL R.E. Spears III Editor Tracy Agnew News Editor Emily R. Collins Staff Writer Beth Beck Land Staff Writer news@suffolklivingmag.com

ADVERTISING Sue Holley General Manager Nikki J. Reeves Director of Special Projects Sue Barnes Marketing Consultant Earl Jones Marketing Consultant

Inside this edition

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44

44 suffolk living

off the wall story by Tracy Agnew photography by Troy Cooper

Not everybody lives in a “typical” house these days. Join us and take a look inside a few of Suffolk’s more unusual abodes.

Some folks take a creative approach to shelter

A

or that floorboard that everyone knows not to step on when others are sleeping.

But unless you share your home with the dead, can sit on your roof with your feet on the ground or drive your home around the country, your humble abode really isn’t that unusual, after all, at least not when compared to the Suffolk homes featured on the following pages.

lmost every home, even the newest one, has some quirky thing about it that makes it unique in its owner’s

Suffolk Events

eyes.

Maybe the bathroom door sticks, the stove overheats by 25 degrees, or the faucet handle must be turned a certain way to keep it from dripping. Maybe there’s a hole in the ceiling,

See HOMES page 45

With the weather cooling down, it’s a great time to get out of the house and enjoy some of the wonderful events that make Suffolk special. Some of the city’s signature events will be taking place during the next couple of months. Check the calendar and make plans now.

Get to know

22

If you’ve been involved with Suffolk’s Rockin’ Relay for Life in recent years — or with any number of other service projects or community organizations, for that matter — there’s a good chance you’ve met Jeanne Banks. But have you tasted her spaghetti?

Chris and Pete Doiron sit on their golf cart at Davis Lakes Campground, near their motor home. The couple has taken the RV to 48 states, but always returns to Suffolk during the summer.

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52 suffolk living

where am I?

I

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

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

Where is it?

Identify the hiding-inplain-sight architectural feature, and you could win a prize.

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

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

Tina Louise Harris Marketing Consultant sales@suffolklivingmag.com

PRODUCTION Troy Cooper Designer Suffolk Living is published six times per year

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

Advertising rates and information available upon request.

Subscriptions are $16 annually in-state; $20 annually out-of-state; $24 for international subscriptions.

Please make checks payable to Suffolk Publications, LLC PO Box 1220, Suffolk, VA 23439

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Go out and enjoy Suffolk!

Smile Suffolk, Photo Walk

Suffolk revealed its hidden side to a group of gifted amateur photographers one day this spring, and the results of that interesting morning were recently on display at the Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts. Take a look at some of what makes the city beautiful.

Mr. Peanut

36

He got an updated look recently — and acquired a voice in the process — but Planters’ Mr. Peanut was born in Suffolk. And in the nearly 100 years since that first sketch, the advertising icon has evolved with the changing times.

38

Pet daycare

Some folks might feel a bit guilty leaving their beloved pets with strangers while they head off to work, or even on vacation. Here’s a secret: Your dog has almost as much fun — maybe even more — at daycare as he does at home.

.4 l. 2, no 11 • vo FA LL 20

On the cover: Photographer Maria Booth earned firstplace honors in the People category of the Suffolk Photo Walk for this shot of a friend’s granddaughter. Its title is “Peeking.”

me At hofolk in Suf H tie S yS wit me S, gu tawayS ge Ho Str an gg ie ge an d do

ww w. su

ffo lkl ivi

ng m ag

.co m

6 suffolk living

Experience Cadillac.

Lydia Duke, President

dukeauto.com Main Street Suffolk 1-800-733-9325

suffolk living

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what to do TGIF Suffolk Peanut Festival

Crab Pickin’ with a purpose

Suffolk Peanut Festival’s Demolition Derby

Mutt Strut

Taste of Suffolk

Suffolk Quilters Guild 8th Triennial Exhibit

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

9/3 — TGIF Location: Bennett’s Creek Park, 3000 Bennett’s Creek Park Road The summer’s last TGIF concert of the year will feature FAB at Bennett’s Creek Park from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Concessions, children’s activities and more will be available. Call 514-7267 for more information.

9/10 — Fifth Annual Taste of Suffolk Location: Main Street in Downtown Suffolk Come celebrate the culinary delights that Suffolk has to offer from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Main Street in Downtown Suffolk. This family-friendly event includes two stages for all-day entertainment, samples of signature dishes from Suffolk’s best restaurants, a new car exhibition, eating contests and special deals at on-site merchants and businesses lining the streets. Admission is free.

Call 514-4130 or visit www.Suffolk-Fun.com.

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

9/10 — Crab Pickin’ with a Purpose Location: Constant’s Wharf, 110 E. Constance Road Suffolk 60 Care presents a new fundraising event this year. The Crab Pickin’ with a Purpose will be held from 5 to 9 p.m., and includes all-you-can-eat crab dinner, sides and two beer/wine tickets for those over 21. Enjoy a lively night of crab picking, dinner and entertainment by Island Boy. Tickets are $30 for adults, $12 for children 12 and under.

Purchase tickets online at www.s60c.org. For more information, call 942-7070.

9/10 — End of Summer Train Day Location: Suffolk Seaboard Station Railroad Museum, 326 N. Main St. Celebrate the end of summer by spending a day

with the trains. The free event will be from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 923-4750.

9/11-10/28 — Suffolk Quilters Guild 8th Triennial Exhibit Location: Suffolk Art Gallery, 118 Bosley Ave. Textiles from local quilters will be featured at the Suffolk Quilters Guild 8th Triennial Exhibit at the Suffolk Art Gallery. This free exhibit runs from Sept.

11 to Oct. 28. For more information, call 514-7284.

9/18 — Mutt Strut Location: Sleepy Hole Park, 4700 Sleepy Hole Road The Suffolk Humane Society’s third annual Mutt Strut dog walk and festival will be held from 1 to 5 p.m., and includes a pledge walk, dog demonstrations, pet health screenings, canine games and contests, pet-related vendors, rescue groups, silent auction, prizes, children’s activities and more. Visit www.SuffolkHumaneSociety.com or call 538-3030 for more information.

8 suffolk living

what to do 9/24 — Boys & Girls Club Barbecue Location: Constant’s Wharf, 100 E. Constance Road Looking for a good time and a chance to support a good cause? Then join the second annual Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Virginia fundraiser from 4 to 7 p.m. on Sept. 24. The event will feature entertainment by Island Boy. Tickets are $25. For more information, call 574-7359.

9/30 — Queen’s Luncheon and Fashion Show Location: National Guard Armory, 2761 Godwin Blvd.

Since 1941, the peanut festivities in Suffolk have included the coronation of a queen and her court. This year’s Queen’s Luncheon, produced by the Pilot Club of Suffolk and sponsored by Planters and the Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center, will include a fashion show by Denison’s. The festival queen is selected from among high school seniors based on a creative writing essay, school activities, achievements and community involvement.

Tickets are $15 each. Call 514-4130 for tickets.

10/1 — Peanut Fest Parade Location: Downtown Suffolk Come line the streets of downtown Suffolk at 10 a.m. to watch the annual Peanut Fest parade march through the city. Sponsored by McDonald’s and SunTrust Bank, this parade always features the best Suffolk has to offer, including marching bands, animal units and more. Call 514-4130 for more information.

Suffolk Ruritan Shrimp Feast

10/6 — Suffolk Ruritan Shrimp Feast Location: Suffolk Executive Airport One of the traditional kick-off activities to the Peanut Fest, the Shrimp Feast annually draws about 5,000 people to enjoy all-you-caneat steamed shrimp, North Carolina barbecue, chicken, cole slaw, baked beans, rolls and beverages from 3 to 7 p.m. Tickets are $30 each in advance, or $35 at the gate. Call 514-4130 for more information.

10/6-10/9 — Suffolk Peanut Festival Location: Suffolk Executive Airport The Suffolk Peanut Festival lasts all weekend, with national and local acts performing on two stages, a tractor pull and a motorcycle rally, as well as traditional fair food, rides and games. Parking is $10 per vehicle per day, or $20 per vehicle for a four-day pass. For more information, call 514-4130.

10/7 — Suffolk Peanut Festival’s Demolition Derby Location: Suffolk Executive Airport A festival tradition, come enjoy the Demolition Derby at 6 p.m. The derbies involve local drivers that compete in their own automobiles and battle one another in compact and full-size auto heats until the last one running is cheered as champion.

10/7 — Art D’Vine Location: Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts, 110 W. Finney Ave. The fifth annual wine tasting and silent auction fundraiser for the Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts will begin at 6 p.m. Tickets required; adults 21 and older only permitted. Call 923-0003 for more information.

10/22-23 — Driver Days Fall Festival and Cornhole Tournament Location: Driver village, 3049 Kings Highway Enjoy down-home hospitality with good food, live music, Driver Days Parade, hot dog eating contest and more. Single and doubles cornhole tournaments will be held Saturday, with a champion named on Sunday.

Proceeds benefit local charities. Call 538-2488 or visit www.DriverEvents. com.

suffolk living

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suffolk scene TGIF

Suffolk’s TGIF concerts have proven to be popular affairs throughout the summer. Boasting a variety of local bands, the concerts draw thousands every season to Constant’s Wharf and Bennett’s Creek parks. Clockwise from below, Devonte, Levon and Carol Boone shade themselves from the sun while enjoying the concert; Emma Johnson, 2, of Smithfield prepares to highfive the Subway sandwich character in front of the stage where Strictly Bizzness was jamming; Halie Creps holds her 8-month-old daughter Colbie at Constant’s Wharf; and Crystal Banks props up her son Jordan, so he can see better.

Photos by TRACy AGNEW and r.e. Spears III

10 suffolk living

www.franklinsouthamptonva.com

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Our magnificent Mausoleum and our peaceful Scatter Gardens are just two of the many reasons people choose Carver Cemetery. Please call or stop by to see how we may serve you and your loved ones now and in the future.

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suffolk living

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suffolk scene NATIONAL NIGHT OUT

Communities all over Suffolk gathered on Aug. 2 to celebrate National Night Out, an annual crime-fighting and partnership-building event. Clockwise from below, UFL and former NFL coach Marty Schottenheimer spoke at the kick-off in Hall Place; At the Chuckatuck party, Randy and Joel Willis, Jeanette Boyd, Lisa Norskog and Chad Truitt manned the booth for Target, which sponsors the events nationwide; Suffolk Animal Control officer Nicole Munro, center, brought along her son Mitchel, 5, and their German Shephard Kali to the Driver festivities; 9-week-old Issaih Deets had his face painted like a tiger at the Whaleyville celebration; Margot Broglin made bubbles with her 22-month-old daughter Madelyn at the Burbage Grant event.

Photos by TRACY AGNEW and Emily R. Collins

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Suffolk Living on vacation

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on location

Suffolk Living magazine traveled coast to coast during the past few months. At left, Trevor Haynes, 7, and Seth Pack, 4, check out a copy of the Men’s Issue on the sidewalk outside the Vista Historical Adobe House in Vista, Calif. Below, editor Res Spears carried a copy to Cape Canaveral’s Launch Complex 39 Press Site, which is also a U.S. National Historic Site, for a scrubbed launch of the Endeavor Space Shuttle. Going out of town soon? Take us along and snap a photo, send it to news@suffolklivingmag. com and your vacation snaps could be famous.

Submitted Photos

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14 suffolk living

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suffolk living

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suffolk scene Fourth of July

In a longtime tradition, the Crittenden, Eclipse and Hobson communities came together to celebrate America’s independence with a parade, games and activities, food and fun. Clockwise from right: Sis Lauver finds a comfy spot to watch the parade with her grandson Scottie Lauver, 5; Kelsey Ford, right, lands a good shot in a water fight with Colin Kirkpatrick; two guests have a friendly competition using pugil sticks; members of the Nansemond River High School marching band make their way down Eclipse Drive in the Fourth of July parade; Vinie Copeland and his daughter Brianna, 7, rode his motorcycle, plastered with American flags, alongside several other bikers in the parade.

Photos by Emily R. Collins

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suffolk living

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suffolk scene Chuckatuck Fish Fry

The Chuckatuck Volunteer Fire Department served fish to thousands of hungry donors at its annual fish fry in June.

Clockwise from below, volunteer Chris Jones serves fish to Wesley Lane; Bobbie Winslow, Kathy Bounds and Suzanne Langston sell desserts for their church at the fish fry; Tom and Linda Rapier got full stomachs during the fundraiser; and volunteers Patrick Porter and Jeff Parsons work the fryer during the event.

Photos by Tracy Agnew

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V I R G I N I A’ S P R E M I E R U S E D C A R S U P E R S T O R E

suffolk living

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suffolk scene Schools Dismissed

Suffolk Public Schools closed Robertson and Mount Zion elementary schools at the end of the school year to save money, ending a long and storied history at both schools. Clockwise from right, Tessa Johnson, left, and Bria Washington wave goodbye to their teachers on their last day at Robertson Elementary School; Jaime Jessee, Alexis Griffith, Kendra Marks and Journey Coleman were part of the first and last Early Start class at Robertson; Nicholas Hamilton, Madison Galloway, Christopher Hamilton and Mikayla Jones were all smiles on their last day at Mount Zion; teachers at Robertson spray their students with silly string as their walk to their buses on the last day.

Photos by TRACY AGNEW

Network with us See what we’re up to on Facebook.

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20 suffolk living

news happenings

calendar boys Suffolk guys show off their ties in the name of health Chris Wade, a tugboat captain who keeps in shape by running, will be the January model in the Suffolk Partnership for a Healthy Community’s Guys with Ties calendar.

suffolk living story by R.E. Spears III photography by Wendy Spain

I

t might not be your typical pinup calendar, but don’t be surprised in 2012 if you see copies of the Suffolk Partnership for a Healthy Community’s calendar pinned up all around town.

“Guys with Ties” will celebrate some of Suffolk’s healthiest men from all walks of life and from all over the city, according to Partnership officials. Sales of the calendar will benefit the organization’s work to promote healthy lifestyles in Suffolk.

“We know that there are so many people in Suffolk who do lots of good things and live healthy lives, and we Friends of Suffolk Partnership Present wanted to acknowledge them,” said Gin Staylor, chairman of the Friends of the Partnership Committee, whose job it is to encourage people to participate in the parent organization’s programs and activities.

2012 CALENDAR “We wanted to let peowith ple know about the goals A Fundraiser to help support Suffolk Partnership for a Healthy Community of the Partnership,” and a calendar seemed like a high-profile way of doing so, she said. “We want everybody to be aware of what the Partnership stands for — we support a healthy community.”

As its name suggests, the calendar features men only, and each of them wears a tie in his photo — though not necessarily in the conventional fashion. All of the men are fully clothed. “The photos are fun, exciting and tasteful,” Staylor said.

Those men who were asked to stand for photos had to live in Suffolk, demonstrate leadership in the community and represent one of the Partnership’s current initiatives — fitness, healthy eating, obesity prevention or community gardens.

In the end, according to Staylor, the calendar features a nice crosssection of the Suffolk community. There are watermen and farmers, professionals and pastors. There are young men in college and older men who’ve retired. There are guys from nearly every part of the city and from all sorts of ethnic and religious backgrounds.

Photography and the cover art for the 12-month calendar were donated by Wendy Spain and Suzanne Pruitt, respectively, and MultiPrint Inc. in Hampton agreed to print the Partnership’s 1,000 copies at cost.

The calendar also features healthy recipes, health tips and important dates of various Partnership-sponsored events.

“Our goal is to make Suffolk one of the healthiest communities anywhere,” Staylor said.

Following a premier party for calendar participants and invited guests during the first part of September, the calendar will be available beginning Sept. 12 at the Suffolk Visitor Center, in the Partnership’s offices at Cross Realty and from a variety of retail locations, both in the downtown area and in North Suffolk.

Copies will sell for $10. ← For more information, visit us on Facebook or at www.SuffolkPartnership.org or info@suffolkpartnership.org

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22 suffolk living

get to know

Jeanne Banks story & photography by Troy Cooper

No need for ketchup anymore

N

ot too long ago, in the kitchen of the dining hall at Columbia Bible College in Columbia, S.C., two students took a liking to one another.

They began going walking together and on church “dates” that weren’t really supposed to be dates, since under the strict rules the two students didn’t have permission to date. So they sat close, but not too close, in the church pews and got to know each under the guise of being just two Bible college students.

And when their courtship progressed to that magical point when a man first samples a woman’s cooking, the young college man had See BANKS page 23

suffolk living

Chopped tomatoes sit atop a bed of sauteed onions and celery in a saute pan. This concoction is on its way to becoming Jeanne Banks’ chicken spaghetti.

BANKS continued from page 22

but one comment: “It’ll get better.”

Neither Jeanne Banks nor her husband Joe can recall what they ate for that meal more than 50 years ago. But Joe Banks remembers this: “I just put a lot of ketchup on it and ate it.”

As it turned out, Joe Banks was right in his initial assessment. Jeanne Banks’ cooking did, indeed, get better.

Born and raised in Portsmouth, Jeanne Banks attended Woodrow Wilson High School and was always under the influence of the strong military presence in Hampton Roads. Her father worked at the Navy shipyard for many years, and her husband is a retired military chaplain.

Since those courtship days in Bible college, their travels together as husband and wife have taken them and their five children all over the United States and abroad. But when it was time to settle in somewhere, Banks was sure to let her husband know she wanted to come back to Virginia. They did exactly that and have been here in Suffolk for more than 20 years.

Joe’s military service had taken the Banks family to the American southwest and two separate stints in Berlin, Germany, during the ‘70s and ‘80s.

“I loved all the quaint little towns in Germany,” Banks says. “I loved all the old cathedrals and the sheep. And the food was always fresh and had such variety.”

No matter where she’s been, though, Jeanne Banks has always been a giver, a provider, someone who likes to get involved.

She has served as chair of Suffolk’s Rockin’ Relay for Life, benefiting the American Cancer Society. She’s been a three-time president of the King’s Fork Woman’s Club, president and governor of the state for the Nansemond River Pilot Club, and head of the volunteer organization at Sentara Obici Hospital. While in Germany, Banks served as president of the Protestant Women of the Chapel in the European Council. That position gave her the opportunity to travel and speak in places like Turkey and the Azores.

See BANKS page 24

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24 suffolk living

Chicken Spa

ghetti

Ingredients 41 lb. chicke n brea 41 cu st p of ch opped 41 cu onions p celery 44 oz . spagh etti 41 ca n chop ped to 41 ca matoe n chick s en sou 4Parm p esan c heese Directions Boil ch icken b reast w broth. hole u In a sa ntil do uté pa and ce n n, coo lery. Sti k chop e. Save r in the soup. ped on tomato ions es and Cook s chicke paghe n tt i in chic Add to ken bro m th unti safe ca ixture of oth l tende er ingre sserole r. . dients Sprink in oven le with p armesa Bake fo n chee r 30 m se. inutes at 350 degree s.

Sprinkled with a healthy dose of Parmesan cheese, Banks’ chicken spaghetti is ready to go into the oven. This light and tasty dish was a crowd favorite of the AARP when Banks used to serve the group each month.

BANKS continued from page 23

She also managed to prepare her wellreceived chicken spaghetti for the masses of the American Association of Retired People once a month back here in Suffolk. That’s one case where her passion for involvement has intersected with her now-commendable skills in the kitchen.

Considering the active life she leads, it’s not surprising that stepping into Jeanne Banks’ kitchen is a lot like stepping into the busy headquarters of a growing family enterprise.

It’s hectic, with family members coming and going, and there’s always something good in the works.

As a wife and mother, Banks knows that a kitchen needs a lived-in, welcoming appeal.

“I like an open space in the kitchen,” she says.

Plus, with five children and a husband who

loves vegetables and leftovers, Banks has accepted a key compromise one must make in a busy kitchen.

“I don’t mind a mess,” she says.

In the open space of her welcoming kitchen, reminders of her travels are tastefully scattered across countertops and on a greeting-card and note-laden refrigerator door. There’s a giant breadbox with the words, “Give us this day our daily bread” written in German.

A small cache of tomatoes sits by the sink, bathing in the sunshine coming through the window. Near the stove is a cluster of cooking essentials — Pam cooking spray, eggs, vanilla flavoring, a box of Hershey’s cocoa, and a bottle of hot sauce — further signifying that Jeanne Banks knows what is required for good cooking. And in the middle of it all is a little

wood-topped island, a perfect place to cool a cherry cobbler, loaves of bread or a fresh batch of chocolate surprise cupcakes.

Spending time with Jeanne Banks in her kitchen, one is enveloped in the warmth and compassion that flow from this family environment. Banks works tirelessly to create that environment in her kitchen and in everything to which she lends a hand in Suffolk.

Those who have enjoyed Banks’ chicken spaghetti or a bite of her chocolate surprise cupcakes can attest that she has, in fact, gotten better in the kitchen.

And as her cooking has improved, so have the lives of countless people around Suffolk who have come into contact with her. Including one writer and graphic designer, who now has a new spaghetti recipe to try at home. ←

suffolk living 25

Chocolate cupcakes Surprise ake mix

dc Ingredients evil’s foo late or d o c o h C se 4 hee cream c 41.8 oz. g 41 eg p sugar 41/3 cu

dients ith ingre Directions as directed w cake p u c ix in m Mix cake Put cake mixture ed. full. suggest bout 1/3 gar ill until a d and su n a g g e paper. F , se ture in e ix e h m c f o m aspoon Mix crea te 1 cake d h d it hly. A Cover w thoroug ke cups. a c p u c f center o box. cake mix batter. cted on e ir d s a Bake

A fresh batch of chocolate surprise cupcakes get a generous layer of chocolate frosting.

THEY’LL NEED S U P E R - FA ST I NT E R N E T F O R S C H OO L .

T H E Y ’ L L WAN T I T F O R E VE RY T H I N G E L S E .

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©2011 Charter Communications. Residential customers only. Internet speeds may vary. Charter does not guarantee data will be secure. Services not available in all areas. Restrictions apply. Call for details.

suffolk living 27

Check our Facebook page to see what you can win.

Attention

Photogs

Suffolk Living is pleased to announce its first Photo Contest, with winning entries to be published in the January/February 2012 issue.

WHO CAN ENTER The contest is open to any amateur photographer except employees of Suffolk Publications and members of their immediate families. An amateur is defined as someone who does not earn more than half of his or her income from photography. Entrants must be 18 years old as of November 1, 2011.

WHAT TO ENTER We are looking for striking, digital images that capture the people, places and things that make Suffolk special. Images must have been taken in the City of Suffolk between Oct. 1, 2010 and November 1, 2011.

All photographs should accurately reflect the subject matter and the scene as it appeared. Photos that have been digitally altered beyond standard optimization (removal of dust, cropping, reasonable adjustments to exposure, color and contrast, etc.) will be disqualified. Images that do not meet these requirements may or may not be judged at the judging panel’s sole discretion.

If you choose to enter in the “People” category, or use any photography which includes people, you are responsible for obtaining necessary releases from the individuals depicted, and must be able to provide copies of those releases to Suffolk Living magazine upon request.

Photo captions must accompany all submissions, and should include the subject of the image, the location where the image was taken, and the name of the photographer.

All photographs will be credited with the caption “© Person’s Name.”

Suffolk Living magazine has final approval of any language that appears on its web site with any of the photos and will not promote or endorse third-party products or services.

GENERAL CATEGORIES: 4Outdoors: Relates to the scenery, landscape, wildlife of Suffolk 4People: Relates to the people of the Suffolk community

4Home Interiors & Exteriors: Relates to photography of the existing homes of Suffolk 4Architecture & Structures: Relates to photography of any buildings (existing and abandoned) as well as structures (non-residential) found throughout Suffolk 4Action: Relates to photography that captures events, sports or leisure activities within Suffolk

IMAGE SPECIFICATIONS & JUDGING All entries must be high quality digital images submitted on a CDROM accompanied by an 8x10 print of each photo (color or black and white, dependent upon photograph). Photographers may enter up to five images. The photos may be in the same category or spread among different categories.

Images will be judged on originality, composition, overall impact and artistic merit. The judging panel includes Suffolk Living staff members as well as other qualified judges, including professional photographers in the area.

Suffolk Living magazine shall determine winner eligibility in its sole and absolute discretion. All decisions made by judges are final.

DEADLINE All submissions must be received no later than Nov. 1, 2011.

SUBMIT TO: Suffolk Living Magazine – Photo Contest Mail: PO Box 1220, Suffolk, VA 23439 In Person: 130 S. Saratoga Street, Suffolk, VA 23434

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smile suffolk A

Photo by Ashley Barber

fter a successful debut in 2009, the Suffolk Photo Walk returned this spring to give photographers a chance to find some of Suffolk’s most photogenic, but overlooked, scenery.

Photo Walk is sponsored by Westminster Reformed Presbyterian Church to give local photographers a chance to connect with each other and to remind the people of Suffolk

how beautiful their city is, said Will Lee, the church’s director of small-group discipleship.

“As a church, we believe that God created the arts; they’re His,” Lee said. “All beauty points to God.” As the following images prove, there is plenty of beauty around Suffolk. For more photos and more information, visit www. suffolkphotowalk.com.

suffolk living 29 Photo by Andrew Pigg

Photo by Lisa Lassiter

Photo by Taryn Lamp

Photo by Shelby Bazemore

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Photo by Bonnie McInturf

Photo by Brandy Wesloskie

Photo by Lisa Lassiter

Photo by Meredith Alphin

suffolk living 31

Photo by Taryn Lamp

Photo by Robin Nelson

Photo by Meredith Alphin Photo by Andrew Pigg

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Mark your calendar!

Suffolk has a lot of fun on tap this fall story by Beth Beck Land

T

he creators of the slogan, “It’s a good time to be in Suffolk,” might have been thinking of fall. Not only do Suffolkians finally get a break from summer heat and a chance to see some colorful foliage, the season also brings some of the biggest events of the year.

Whether you’re a doggie devotee, a legume lover or a house hunter, Suffolk has you covered this fall.

4th Annual Mutt Strut Dog Walk & Festival Sept. 18, 1-5 p.m.

Sleepy Hole Park, 4700 Sleepy Hole Road

Started in 2008 to raise money for stray animals under their care, the Suffolk Humane Society’s Mutt Strut includes a pledge walk, silent auction, pet and people friendly vendors, food, canine demonstrations, animal rescue organizations and more.

“The walk allows us to continue the programs we have in place, expand our programs and maybe add some new ones,” said Kay Hurley, director of community outreach for the society.

Besides promoting animal adoption and caring for stray animals, the society also sponsors free spay and neuter clinics, reading programs for children and has hopes to do more with schools and humane education programs.

“We believe what we are doing is not just about animals but promoting compassion,” Hurley said.

“We’re helping to make our community a better place to live and have a family.”

Exciting new features of this year’s event include Photo by R.E. Spears III demonstrations by the Flying Jacks, a showcase of high-flying stunts by a team of Jack Russell terriers, and the Virginia Fox Trotters, a program featuring a group of handlers and their dogs performing dance routines.

Last year, more than 4,500 attended the event and more than $55,000 was raised for the society’s mission.

For more information, call 538-3030 or visit www.suffolkhumanesociety.com.

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“It goes back to our heritage with peanuts. It’s the only festival of its kind around here.”

Randy Byrum — Peanut Festival Co-chair

Photo by R.E. Spears III

34th Annual Peanut Festival

Oct. 6-9 Suffolk Executive Airport, 1200 Gene bolton drive

Celebrate Suffolk’s agricultural heritage and devotion to peanuts, the legumes that put the city on the map, at the Peanut Festival.

“It’s the best festival in the state,” said Fleet Garnett, who co-chairs the Peanut Festival along with Randy Byrum. “It goes back to our heritage with peanuts.

It’s the only festival of its kind around here.”

A Peanut Fest Parade in downtown Suffolk at 10 a.m. on Oct. 1 gets folks in the spirit, and the festival officially starts the following Thursday at Suffolk Executive Airport with the Ruritan Shrimp Feast, featuring all-you-caneat-shrimp, barbecue, sides and more for $30.

Can’t-miss highlights include the

Demolition Derby, set for 6 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 7; the Truck and Tractor Pull, set for 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 8; and the fireworks, set for 8 p.m. that same night.

Three stages will offer a slate of entertainers, including performances by Foghat and the Charlie Daniels Band.

And don’t forget about the quirky contests that make the Peanut Fest special, like the Chalk Art Competition, set for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and the Peanut Butter Sculpture contest, set for 2 p.m., both on Saturday, Oct. 8.

“The Peanut Butter Sculpture Contest is the only one of its kind,” Garnett said. “I can’t imagine why people wouldn’t come out to this festival.”

Rides, jalapeno-eating contests, a motorcycle rally, karaoke contests, cornhole tournaments, a brand-new barbecue cook-off, a kickball tournament, kid-friendly entertainment and more round out the four-day event.

Get the full entertainment schedule at www.suffolkfest.org.

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Photos courtesy of the Tidewater Builders Association

Fall 2011 Homearama Oct. 15-30 The Riverfront at Harbour View, 6101 Walkers Ferry Lane

The Tidewater Builders Association’s annual Homearama event returns to Suffolk at The Riverfront at Harbour View. The popular showcase will feature nine homes from area builders.

“The homes are chock full of incredible ideas,” said Homearama Chairman Stephen Quick of Stephen Alexander Homes. “And these are things that can be done at anyone’s house.”

Homearama displays fully furnished and fully landscaped custom showcase homes that demonstrate the latest in home construc-

tion, design, furnishings and technological innovations. This is the 30th year the event has been staged by Tidewater Builders Association in South Hampton Roads.

The event offers consumers a chance to see the latest innovations in new home designs and products for the home, which organizers say will boost the local economy.

Homearama will draw visitors from all over South Hampton Roads and the Peninsula to experience what living in Suffolk can be all about.

“People get a chance to see how nice Suffolk is,” said Quick. “They can see they can get that rural lifestyle and that sophisticated house. And Suffolk and the Riverfront are just beautiful.”

A unique feature of every Homearama is

the charity house, which this year was built to benefit the TBA Scholarship Foundation.

This year’s scholarship recipient is Justin Kauflin, a jazz pianist who has played at the Kennedy Center and released his own CD. Homearama also offers special events, including Mom’s Morning Out and a special food event, and all the items on display in the homes are available for purchase at discounted prices.

General admission is $10 for a one-day pass and $17 for a two-day pass. Active duty and retired military guests and seniors get a $1 discount Mondays-Thursdays. Children 12 and under and guests in wheelchairs are free.

Check out some of the floor plans of featured houses and get more information at www.homearama.tv.

suffolk living 35

Some of the 14,000 Reasons We Do What We Do at Suffolk Public Schools

www.spsk12.net (757) 925­6750

36 suffolk living

Mr. Peanut

MR. PEANUT® and PLANTERS® are registered trademarks of Kraft Foods Inc. and are used with permission.

through the years M

r. Peanut, the iconic legume who represents Planters, hasn’t always been the spokesnut for the company.

The dapper nut was born in Suffolk nearly a century ago when a schoolboy named Antonio Gentile, who lived in Suffolk’s Hall Place neighborhood, won a contest in 1916 to design a mascot for the company.

A professional artist added the top hat, monocle, cane and gloves to make Mr. Peanut more gentlemanly. Now, he is one of the most recognizable marketing icons in the world.

1927

1919 The illustration at left shows Mr. Peanut’s evolution through the years.

In earlier years, Planters Peanuts advertising focused on the peanut’s cultural value and inexpensiveness. Advertisements in the 1920s portrayed a bag of salted peanuts as “The Nickel Lunch” (above).

suffolk living

1957 1949

37

In the ‘50s, Planters Cocktail Peanuts were advertised as the essential party snack (left). In the ‘80s, customers who ate enough peanuts may have been lucky enough to win $1 million if they could find the containers that spelled “Planters” (below).

More recent advertisements (bottom) have focused on the peanut’s nutritional value, portraying peanuts as a hearthealthy snack that provides vital nutrients. Mr. Peanut received a makeover last year that included a new look and a voice.

1984

1964

2010 2005

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pet paradise

Jack the Pekingese, known as Bossman around the Bennett’s Creek Home Away from Home boarding and pet daycare facility, takes a break from the stress of running the place. From his perch on a bed in one of the VIP suites, he can watch flat-screen TV, and his owner can watch him via webcam.

Playtime, treats and lots of friends — daycare can have its benefits story by Emily R. Collins photography by R.E. Spears III

“Every dog that comes here makes a friend.”

Bonnie Billue — Dogwood Run owner

W

hen he’s at home, he’s called Jack, but at Bennett’s Creek Home Away from Home, he’s the Bossman — and he means business.

He waltzes into the building every morning like he owns the place, with his head held high and his tail at attention. Step aside — I’m here for daycare.

Even as he trots past the staff members who tower over him,

he never falters — he knows he’s the boss.

When he reaches the daycare room, he gives an affirmative bark so his loyal subjects know he’s ready to enter and greet the general public.

In the real world, a Pekingese might be a shrimp of a dog, but in here, he’s the king.

“He definitely thinks he rules,” said Abby Richardson, a member of the kennel team. “And they See PETS page 40

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Dogwood Run employee Debbie Noel tosses a toy into the pool for Luna and Houdini, two of the large dogs that enjoy spending their days playing with Noel and others at the Crittenden daycare facility.

Dogwood Run has two pools, including one for medium-sized dogs like Maverick, inset.

40 suffolk living

PETS continued from page 38

listen to him.”

Jack is one of the many dogs, and even a few cats, in Suffolk that spend time in daycare when their owners are at work or out of town.

Along Bridge Road, two centers — Bennett’s Creek Home Away from Home and Dogwood Run — cater to furry friends looking for a place to stay and play when Mom and Dad are away.

Pets make these places their palaces, whether they are getting the VIP treatment in their own luxury suite or getting personal swim lessons in their own pool.

Bennett’s Creek manager Ellisse Parker said owners really appreciate having a place where they know their favorite four-legged pals will be given all the love and attention they get when they are home.

She added she hopes all the dogs get comfortable in their second homes the way Jack has, because it makes the time their owners are away much more pleasant.

While both places offer caretaking options, many of the thousands of dogs that file in and out of their doors every year come for the day to get tuckered out, so they won’t overwhelm Mom and Dad when they come home from work dog-tired.

See PETS page 41

Bonnie Billue, one of the owners of Dogwood Run, often brings her own dog, OhNo!, above, to work with her. OhNo! got his name from the reaction that Billue had when she realized the dog had been abandoned to her care. Below, Bobbie and Mimi are among the clients at Bennett’s Creek Home Away from Home.

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Pet daycare isn’t just for dogs, as Bennett’s Creek Home Away from Home sets aside a room for cats, as well. Kittens Boogie and Rumble enjoy time out of their cage to play on the cat tree in the feline room. As with the dogs, cats in the facility are given special playtimes each day, and human interaction during those times is important.

PETS continued from page 40

“It’s a great way, just like for a child, to be able to provide a place where they are going to be supervised and where they can be socialized,” Parker said.

Of the 30 or so dogs attending daycare at Dogwood Run on any given day, there’s one furry face that has been part of Dogwood’s lineup since she was a puppy.

Sophie, a black Russian terrier, was about a quarter of the massive size she is today when she started attending daycare.

Sophie first came for the pool she could jump into when Virginia’s summers got a little

too hot for her thick black fur coat. But her owners keep bringing her back, because all her friends are at Dogwood.

“Every dog that comes here makes a friend,” said Bonnie Billue, one of Dogwood’s owners.

To promote friendships between the dogs, the pooches at Dogwood are given free range of one of five different yards that include a plethora of toys, pools for them to splash around and an attentive staff ready to play fetch.

Friendships also form every day in the daycare rooms at Bennett’s Creek. And sometimes

those friends seem the most unlikely pairings.

Parker said she never tries to guess which dogs are going to become close, because they always surprise her. The tiniest Chihuahua can make a fast friend of a giant Great Dane just as easily as two Labradoodles would pair off.

And once those bonds are formed, it’s tough to break them.

“They can’t wait to come the next day and play with the same group of dogs,” she said.

While many pups just spend the day at this play palace, they always have the option to stick around for the night.

See PETS page 42

42 suffolk living PETS continued from page 41

Ellisse Parker, the manager at Bennett’s Creek Home Away from Home, plays with Sky, one of the daycare clients, in a backyard play area behind the Bridge Road daycare and boarding facility.

Dogwood Run doesn’t offer overnight kennels while owners are away. Instead, the facility offers an alternative that keeps dogs socialized and exercised but still gives them the comfort of home.

Billue personally chauffeurs the pups that need babysitting everyday from home to Dogwood Run and back again just in time for supper.

“They just come out there to have a good time and swim and play and go home very tired,” Billue said.

They can run all day with their friends, but when the sun goes down, the tired canines are taken home, where Billue prepares them dinner before they drift off to sleep.

Because there’s no place like home.

Some dogs, however, demand even more special treatment. If your dog prefers to take a vacation of its own while you are away, Bennett’s Creek offers VIP suites for its pups.

The suites feature raised beds, special glass doors in place of the usual bars, flat-screen televisions playing “doggie-appropriate” content and perks like being let outside before the rest of the daycare doggies.

But the thing that really pushes owners to get the suites is 24-hour access to webcams, so they can watch their precious pups from miles away.

“You can look at your dog in real time any time of day,” Parker said.

The access definitely came in handy for Ginger, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, who came to stay while her mom was out of town.

Ginger was quite content being away from home, as long as she had her sidekick — a stuffed hedgehog toy — by her side.

“She would carry this hedgehog in her mouth the all the time,” Parker said. “She was a doll-baby, and she just cracked us up.”

Ginger enjoyed her VIP accommodations just fine, but the raised bed was a problem for her prickly friend.

Every once in a while, in the midst of playing, Ginger would lose her grip on the hedgehog, and it would roll under the bed, sending her into a panic.

Parker said the owner, watching via webcam, would call anytime the toy was out of Ginger’s reach, and one of the employees would swoop in to rescue the trapped hedgehog.

“It is those webcams that is the number one feature,” Parker said. “It just seems to ease some kind of anxiety.

Clients adore that.”

Whether they are getting the VIP treatment at Bennett’s Creek or enjoying the dog’s life at Dogwood Run, there is one philosophy that binds the two doggie dwellings — a tired dog is a happy dog.

And whether they’re watching via webcam or meeting their dogs at home at the end of a long day, Suffolk pet owners want happy dogs. ←

suffolk living

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44 suffolk living

off the wall story by Tracy Agnew photography by Troy Cooper

Some folks take a creative approach to shelter

A

lmost every home, even the newest one, has some quirky thing about it that makes it unique in its owner’s

eyes.

Maybe the bathroom door sticks, the stove overheats by 25 degrees, or the faucet handle must be turned a certain way to keep it from dripping. Maybe there’s a hole in the ceiling, or

that floorboard that everyone knows not to step on when others are sleeping.

But unless you share your home with the dead, can sit on your roof with your feet on the ground or drive your home around the country, your humble abode really isn’t that unusual, after all, at least not when compared to the Suffolk homes featured on the following pages.

See HOMES page 45

Chris and Pete Doiron sit on their golf cart at Davis Lakes Campground, near their motor home. The couple has taken the RV to 48 states, but always returns to Suffolk during the summer.

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HOMES continued from page 44

The quietest neighbors

Benny and Betty Sue Plewes live in a modest two-bedroom, second-floor apartment with a balcony off Pruden Boulevard. They’re both retired, but they work part-time for their landlord.

The couple, married for 26 years, say they enjoy the apartment where they moved in 2007.

There’s ample parking and a short commute to work. Above all, the neighbors are quiet.

That’s because the Pleweses’ apartment is on the second floor of Parr Funeral Home.

“I tell people we’re overtakers, instead of undertakers,” Benny jokes.

The couple agreed to move when Charles Parr was building his new funeral home. Benny has worked as a funeral attendant for Parr since he retired.

The couple was looking to downsize, anyway.

It was a perfect fit.

“It’s been a good working arrangement here,” said Betty Sue, who often helps with office work at the funeral home.

Indeed, what some folks would consider a morbid arrangement actually benefits all parties. The Pleweses have the convenience of apartment living and a work commute that consists of a staircase and a hallway. The funeral home gets a 24-hour guard.

Of course, there are inconveniences, as well.

Betty Sue has to keep track of the schedule downstairs so she knows not to cook aromatic foods during a service. They have to park at the edge of the lot during visitations. And they must tread carefully when they know there are people downstairs — living ones, that is.

But then there are some things that are downright spooky — like when Benny was alone one night and awoke to a knock at his apartment door. He answered to find a police officer at the foot of the stairs. Apparently, a side door to the funeral home had been left unlocked.

See HOMES page 46

The hallway at Parr Funeral Home includes tasteful lights and furniture, like most funeral homes. Most funeral homes, however, don’t have an apartment on the second floor. Inset, Benny and Betty Sue Plewes in their living room.

45

46 suffolk living The brick-floored greenhouse at the Earthship helps keep the home warm in the winter. It features planted trees and plenty of storage space.

HOMES continued from page 45

“Most of our customers don’t knock on the door,” Benny joked.

But the Pleweses frequently assist people who come knocking. Many visitors on the weekend are looking for the state veterans’ cemetery up the road.

Unsurprisingly, the Pleweses often get odd reactions when they tell folks where they live.

Some even ask if they can smell the crematory.

“There’s absolutely no fumes or odors,” Betty Sue said.

The only thing she’s dying for is a better view.

She has dressed up her kitchen window with plants outside and crafted a sitting area on the flat roof outside her door.

But if the novelty of living above a funeral home ever gets old, they have only to think of the end-of-life conveniences it offers.

“Benny always jokes that if he dies, all I’ve got to do is kick him down the steps,” Betty Sue

said.

The Underhill Residence

Gail Barker and her four sons love to have people over.

There’s a constant stream of visitors through their home off White Marsh Road, and the pool always has room for a few more guests.

“I grew up having parties,” Barker said. “My parents had lots of parties.”

So when she and her boys, ages 11 to 20, were looking for a new place, they knew it had to have lots of room.

They got that, and a whole lot more.

The family is renting a home built by Larry and Melina Winterton, now California transplants. Known as the Earthship, the home is specially designed to be environmentally friendly.

The home is partially insulated by a dirt hill

built up the north side, from which Barker can step onto the roof. A greenhouse with a brick floor runs the entire south side of the home, harnessing heat for cold winter nights. Solar panels on the roof power the water heater. And a cistern collects rainwater to use in watering the garden.

“It really works,” said Barker, who moved to the home in April. “The energy costs are low.

It’s been absolutely delightful living here.”

The family’s highest power bill comes in the summer, when it runs about $150. The home is much more difficult to cool than to heat.

The large family room and open kitchen provide plenty of space for gatherings and visitors.

The boys also have a game room, which opens into four small bedrooms. Curtains cover each entrance, and everything from the paint to the posters reflects each boy’s individuality.

Barker wishes only for more storage space.

See HOMES page 47

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HOMES continued from page 46

She recently completed some upgrades that make that possible, but the greenhouse still plays host to stacks of books, yard supplies and everything in between.

“Everybody has weird things with their home, but with us it’s a little different,” Barker said. “We have to go home and let water out of the cistern because it’s rained.”

A mobile Life

Pete Doiron and his wife Chris are no strangers to adventure.

They’ve visited 49 states and most of the national parks. They’ve made friends and followed bluegrass festivals all over the country.

And they did it all behind the wheel of their home.

The couple, who both retired from Tidewater Community College, decided in 2002 to buy an RV and see the country on four wheels. They’ve undertaken two big trips out west, one of which included a cruise to Alaska. Most shorter trips are up and down the East Coast.

But they almost always return to Davis Lakes Campground in Suffolk for the summer. The kids and grandkids are here.

“We’ve been to an awful lot of places,” Pete said.

Both agreed they could never pick a favorite.

The RV offers all of the creature comforts — water and sewer hookups, a fridge and stove, bathroom, bedroom and even a sofa. The postal service even delivers, with their children acting as conduits.

“We have everything that your house has,” Chris said, “just in a smaller capacity.”

Living in a motor home does require attention to organization. “Everything has to be in its place,” Chris said. Even the microwave stores kitchen supplies when it’s not in use.

There’s hardly a downside to their home-onthe-road — except, perhaps, that it can’t reach the 50th state.

“I don’t think we’ll get the motor home to Hawaii, but maybe someday we can get there,” Chris said.

Aside from its inability to fly or float, only the price of diesel fuel for the motor home’s 128-gallon tank and its generator can cramp the Doirons’ RVing style.

But even that’s a small price to pay for the freedom to move without having to pack.

“If you’re not happy where you’re at, you just turn the key and take off,” Chris said. ←

Top, the Earthship on White Marsh Road where Gail Barker and her four sons live is buried partially under a man-made hill for insulation. Above, Barker in front of her vegetable garden, where she grows much of the family’s food.

Daily noon to 9 p.m. www.homearama.tv 757-420-2434

October 15-30

Come out and play. Come out and stay.

Come to Homearama and tour 9 beautiful custom homes and discover hundreds of design ideas to take back to your own home. See state-of-the-art kitchens, gorgeous landscapes and interiors by the area’s most talented designers. Visit hundreds of vendors in the Idea Marketplace and enjoy entertainment and workshops throughout the 16 days. It’s all within a breathtaking riverfront resort-style community. Bring the family for a play date. You may even decide to stay.

HOMEARAMA HIGHLIGHTS � Military Appreciation Day, Mon., Oct. 17, buy one, get one free admission with military ID � A Taste of Suffolk, Mon., Oct. 24, 6-8 p.m. Sample cuisine from Suffolk restaurants � Mother’s Day Out, Tues., Oct. 25, opens early at 10 a.m. for moms with school-age children � Homearama Furniture Sale, Mon., Oct. 31, noon-6 p.m. � The Justin Kauflin House, to benefit the TBA Scholarship Foundation � The Organization House, featuring storage solutions from Closet Factory � The Suffolk House, celebrating the host city with decor and activities � The Get Pink with Sentara House, observing breast cancer awareness month � The Pilot House, featuring ideas from readers of The Virginian-Pilot � The HomeTalk.com Social Media House, hosting on-site real-time forums I T ’ S

A

G R E A T

T I M E

T O

B U Y

A

N E W

H O U S E .

presented by

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Jordan Hall, Wes Hall, Wanda Hall, Christiaan Pond and Cristin Pond regularly gather in the kitchen for drinks and games like Apples to Apples. Below, Wes Hall’s original artwork, as well as other carefully selected pieces of decor, accentuate the home’s white pallete with hints of color.

a colorful life column by Janice Powell photography by Paul Costen

W

hen they first began decorating their home by the Nansemond River four years ago, Wanda and Les Hall had a goal of a home that would suit their casual lifestyle and love of entertaining.

An open-plan kitchen and living room helps achieve that goal by fostering togetherness. It is perfect for Wanda’s passion for cooking and party planning.

The couple has carefully edited a mix of modern and traditional, coastal and classic, resulting in a look that’s refined and relaxed. When it came to choosing the color palette, Wanda said, her surroundings and her memories of Turks & Caicos were both inspirational. Influenced by their travels to the Caribbean, the Hall’s collection of mementos, treasures and artwork adds just the right amount of color.

“Les always jokes that our home is like the bulletin board in my old See COLORFUL page 50

50 suffolk living COLORFUL continued from page 49

The Hall home has a stunning view of Knott’s Creek, frequently admired by “Sassy,” an 11-year-old Himalayan seal point cat from atop the Hall’s bedroom couch.

kindergarten classroom,” Wanda said. “We have so much white in the house that I can add pops of color whenever the season or subject matter changes.”

The Halls’ home proves that “neutral” doesn’t mean boring. In this case, it provides the backdrop for stunning, classic pieces of furniture, decorative accessories and Les’ colorful oil paintings.

But what really adds the color is the family’s sentimental collection of treasures. In his spare time, Les is an artist, and his paintings reflect their travels over the years. On the mantel is a carved wooden whale given to them by daughter Cristin. A bowl of shells reminds Wanda of her walks on the beach with daughter Jordan. Framed watercolor paintings of Suffolk landmarks are some of Les’ earlier works of art.

A big part of the reason the Halls purchased their waterfront home was to capture the feeling of calm and serenity they find in the Caribbean.

“We thought we might like to buy a home there, but then we thought we could create the home of our dreams here and visit the island as often as our time allows,” Wanda said. “This home combines the best of both worlds for us. Many times I’ll leave clothes behind in order to pack more shells to meet the quota.

We just love our visits to the islands, and we bring a part of each visit home with us in one form or another.”

It’s been a colorful life for the Halls, and in this case, color isn’t about walls or furniture. It’s about a little imagination and a lot of love. ←

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Age 5: Despite mom’s best efforts, grandma spoiled me just a little.

Age 13: Grandma told me the boy teased me only because he liked me.

Age 18: Though far away, we still talk twice a week.

Age 23: She teased my boyfriend only because she liked him.

Age 27: The day I said, “I do,” she gave me something borrowed and something blue.

Being there for those special moments. At The Village, we know how important they are. In fact, we take special moments so seriously that we believe retirement living should be full of them. Whether it’s time with your granddaughter on her wedding day, or just a great conversation with a new friend. And with maintenance-free living in one of our spacious apartments or cottages, you’ll find you have even more time to enjoy life’s special moments.

To learn more about The Village at Woods Edge, please visit us on the web at www.VillageAtWoodsEdge.com or call (757) 562-3100.

The Village at Woods Edge

Small town charm. Engaging senior living.

Small town charm. Engaging senior living.

1401 North High Street • Franklin, VA 23851 • www.VillageAtWoodsEdge.com • (757) 562-3100 • fax: (757) 562-0051

52 suffolk living

where am I?

I

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

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

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

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

Go out and enjoy Suffolk!

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index of advertisers 18th Century Merchant........6 Atlantic Urogynecology.....12 Array 700.............................6 Autumn Care.....................13 BB&T Investments.............19 Bon Secours Health System.55 Brandon House Furniture....4 Bronco Federal Credit Union.....................43 Carrollton Furniture.............8 Carver Memorial Cemetery.10 Charter Communications..26 Chorey & Associates..........56 D.B. Bowles Jewelers........10 Denison’s.....................23 Dr. Ramstad.......................21 Duke Automotive.........6, 50 East End Baptist Church....21 Eclipse Lawn Care..............35 Edward Jones...................12 Ellen Drames.......................2 Farmers Bank....................14 Franklin Biz Incubator........10 Harbour Veterinary Office..14 Holiday Inn Express...........12 Isle of Wight Academy.......14 Lawrence Trailer...................8

Mike Duman......................18 Nancy’s Calico Patch..........23 Nansemond Suffolk Academy.............................8 Parker Oil Company...........14 Paul Costen Photography....53 Rawlings Mechanical.........35 Rebecca Keeling Studios...27 RL Howell & Associates....18 Sentara Healthcare..............4 Smithfield Gardens...........10 State Farm Insurance Ken Deloach.....................16 Suffolk Insurance...............18 Suffolk Peanut Festival......16 Suffolk Quality Cleaners....16 Suffolk Public Schools........35 Suffolk Sheet Metal............17 Tidewater Builder’s Association..48 UniquelyLeos LTD.............17 United Way of Hampton Roads............3 Village at Woods Edge.......51 Virginia Soaps & Scents.....19 Woodard Orthodontics.....9 Zuni Peanuts......................16

PAULCOSTEN

photography design video

www.paulcosten.com hitting the road soon? got room for one more?

Last issue’s Where Am I?

Photos WANTed

Lots of people knew where am I? immediately where to find I the metal rooster featured on the in the summer edition of “Where Am I?” Although it would seem that there are more than one of the roosters around town, observant readers noted the background in the photo and guessed correctly that the location was outside of Rio Grande Traders in Driver. Jimmy O’Quinn, who lives in Driver, is the winner of a $25 gift certificate to the advertiser of his choice after his name was randomly selected from among those who guessed correctly. Look on page 52 for this edition’s photo and instructions on how to enter the contest. suffolk living

n each edition the Suffolk Living staff provides a challenge of sorts, testing how much of Suffolk you really know. We photograph some location in Suffolk that is readily accessible and open to the public, and see if you can tell us where it is.

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

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

Go out and enjoy Suffolk!

Let us help you remember your vacation.Take a copy of Suffolk Living with you on your road trips and vacations. Snap some photos and email them to us.

Maybe they’ll be in the next issue. It’ll be a much better way to show off your photos than showing slides.

news@suffolklivingmag.com

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scrapbook

STREET SWEEPER: The city of Suffolk got a new street sweeper in 1930, and gentlemen from the community came out on a cold day to get a look at the new technology on display. Among those who were on hand for the debut in front of Old Magnolias were Baird Hill, M.V. Cathy and James Causey. — Photo courtesy of the Suffolk-Nansemond Historical Society

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“I walked on the same day as my surgery.”

Rita direct anterior hip replacement

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good move

Bon Secours Orthopaedic Institute Though suffering from severe hip pain, Rita put off her hip replacement surgery because she was afraid of a long recovery time. Dr. Marlow at the Bon Secours Orthopaedic Institute told her about the direct anterior approach, a new minimally invasive procedure that promised faster recovery. Dr. Marlow was the first in Western Hampton Roads to perform this state-of-the-art surgical technique, which takes advantage of a technologically advanced surgical table and special instruments to achieve great results — less muscle trauma, quicker recoveries, earlier return to activities and smaller scars. Sure enough, Rita was on her feet in no time.

Rita made a good move by coming to Bon Secours Maryview for her surgery. Our compassionate care, nationally acclaimed surgeons and leading-edge technology make us Western Hampton Roads’ first choice for orthopaedics.

bshr.com/ortho • 757-215-3789

Dr. Aaron Marlow Board-Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon Fellowship-trained in Total Joint Replacement

BON SECOURS ORTHOPAEDIC INSTITUTE AT MARYVIEW MEDICAL CENTER