Western Tidewater Living - Summer 2011 by The Tidewater News

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letter from the publisher

estern Tidewater is blessed with an abundance of people who make a difference. This edition features seven volunteers extraordinaire, but we could have easily filled the magazine with folks equally worthy of recognition for their acts, big and small, that make our community better. One of my favorites is Kathy Worrell. The woman amazes me with the breadth and depth of her community service. Rare is the community event I attend where Kathy isn’t there and working hard to make it successful. I hesitate to list the causes with which Kathy, office manager for Manry Rawls insurance, is associated, for there

are very likely some of which I’m unaware. The American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, Downtown Franklin Association, Franklin/Southampton Area United Way and High Street United Methodist Church come to mind from personal experience and observation. Serious question: Does she ever sleep? At least annually, Western Tidewater Living will salute a new group of volunteers. You probably know a Kathy Worrell, a Kisha Watford or a Daniel Crocker who gives selflessly for the betterment of their community and fellow man. Let us know about them by dropping a line to magazine@tidewaternews.com.

Sincerely, Steve Stewart

letter to the editor

Dear editor, e are so thrilled with your new magazine for our area. It is such a thrill to recognize so many people/storylines of your new project, and it is wonderful.

John and Sandra Duck Franklin

contents | summer 2011

Cover photograph by Frank A. Davis

ON THE COVER: Courtland country singer Colton James on verge of making it big

Inside this edition Steve Stewart Publisher Tony Clark General Manager

party pix

From artsy to athletic to downhome fun, Western Tidewater had a busy spring party season.

Gwen Albers Managing editor Dale Liesch Staff writer Rex Alphin Columnist Troy Cooper Designer Ryan Outlaw Designer Loretta Lomax Editorial assistant Mitzi Lusk Marketing consultant Sara Johnson Marketing consultant Kate Archer Marketing consultant Michelle Stainback Office manager Western Tidewater Living is published four times a year by Tidewater Publications, LLC P.O. Box 497, Franklin, VA 23851 757-562-3187 Advertising rates and information available upon request to magazine@ tidewaternews.com. Subscriptions are $20 annually in-state; $24 annually out of state; and $30 annually overseas.

DIFFERENCE MAKERS Meet some of your Western Tidewater neighbors who are making a difference by volunteering.

24 western tidewater living

catching up with

Alexis R. Joyner

’m forever working on something. Sometimes three or four projects at once,” said Alexis R. Joyner. That something being the making of art -- his profession and passion. Hailing from Capron, Joyner chairs the Fine Arts Department at Elizabeth City State University in North Carolina. While he’s involved with a few small projects at the moment, simultaneously, “What’s consuming my time is a veterans’ monument – not memorial – to be unveiled by July 4 at the Veterans’ Park in Fayetteville, N.C.,” the 55-year-old said. The piece is for the Veterans Hands Project, which involves casting hands of living servicemen. There will be 100, one for each county. “I was responsible for 12 counties in the eastern region,” said Joyner. “Each county had to choose a primary veteran candidate. The main vet from each will be cast in bronze, those of supporters in special cement on a separate wall.” As reported by Elizabeth City’s newspaper, The Daily Advance, this past winter Joyner earned acclaim for a series of clay sculptures featuring African-American women called “Crowd Control.” The response was incredible, he said. “People were really, really moved by them,” Joyner said. “On opening night, I was flooded with all kinds of questions.” To be identified as an African-American artist ‘is not limiting at all.’” “I feel that I try to communicate my experience as a human experience, which is universal,” Joyner said. One of his closest associates, Professor Drusiano Scerbo, described his colleague of 20 years as a reserved kind of guy. “People have no idea of the sensitivity and knowledge he has,” Scerbo said. “He’s kind of a Renaissance Man. From music to poetry to sculpture, he has knowledge of it.” Joyner’s memory “reminds me of the old folks back in Italy. They keep track of the people they know,” Scerbo said. “Sometimes it’s so strange that two different people from two different cultures share the same quality of life.”

“That’s one thing that Joyner and I are trying to teach as well – connectivity,” Scerbo added. When they started at the university, there were just the two in the department. Today there’s a full-time staff of six. Joyner and Scerbo have worked together on projects, sometimes involving students. “We just rely on one another,” Scerbo said. “I’m fortunate to have met him, coming to the states and working with him.” Joyner spent his childhood in Southampton County, where his artistry has its roots. “I started drawing when I was about 2 to 3 years old,” said the son of the late Martha D. Whitfield and Jimmie William Joyner Sr. “I have older brothers who also drew,” he said. “As Hundreds of area residents and visitors converged on Eclipse for the midsoon as I found I could acti- November oyster roast hosted by the C. E. & H. Ruritan Club. vate space, I was hooked.” sion. That obviously wasn’t just a childhood pas“Over the years it has pretty much been alltime. consuming,” Joyner said. “Of course, through“I drew constantly ever since I was a child in out my life, when I’m not creating, I write poelementary school,” Joyner said. “I took all the etry. Mainly I write it for me.” art I could take in high school, which was only He’s had several readings down through the three courses.” years at open mic poetry readings and things of Undergraduate studies were done at Virginia that nature.” State University, and he graduated from Norfolk This writing has been further inspirational. State and Old Dominion universities, concen“Sometimes the words will trigger an image and trating in sculpture. an image triggers words,” Joyner said. Today he has a master’s of fine arts degree, He still works with clay in addition to wood, which he explained is equivalent to a doctorate. some stone and metals. All are challenging. He started teaching at Elizabeth State in 1986 “If it was too easy, I would probably stop,” he and still teaches sculpture and 3-D design and said. “I look forward to problem-solving. I welceramics. come the challenge. That’s what kept me sort of “Mine is still pretty much hands-on,” Joyner sane over the years. It’s been a blessing to have said. my career and the thing I love as an outlet, you He emphasized the importance of his pasknow.”

Each quarter our magazine will catch up with a Western Tidewater native who is living and working outside the area. In this issue, we share the story of former Capron resident Alexis R. Joyner, a professor of fine arts at Elizabeth City State University in North Carolina.

42 western tidewater living

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

RIVERKEEPER

Float the Blackwater and Nottoway rivers with Riverkeeper Jeff Turner and the Spirit of Moonpie.

where am I? I

COLTON JAMES

Country singer Colton James of Courtland premieres a music video and CD, writes songs for Nashville charity and Grave Digger, and shoots a segment for the Sportsman Channel.

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

The reader who can identify this location will win a $25 gift certificate to any one of our partner advertisers. So, if you know where this is, let us know. If you’re right, you could be a winner. E-mail your answers to magazine@ tidewaternews.com Go out and enjoy Western Tidewater!

46 western tidewater living

common ground

IT’S HAPPENING Take a look at some of the fun things to do this summer.

here comes the sun! column and photo by Rex Alphin

inety-three million miles away, inside a massive entity 865,133 miles across, nuclear fusion reactions are fusing hydrogen into helium, resulting in temperatures of 9,900 degrees on its outer surface. Nine thousand, nine hundred degrees Fahrenheit. The result sees light and heat spew out from its edge at 186,000 miles per second. They travel for 8.3 minutes and encounter a round object 109 times smaller, spinning on a tilted axis at 23.5 degrees, the angle being such that the upper half of this globe more directly catches the beams. These rays come to reside in particular around latitude 36.6, longitude 76.9. As a result: n A young mother searches the store shelf for flip-flops that will fit, probably only for one year, her 5-year-old son. n A 42-year-old man pulls the covering off his 22-foot boat as the adrenalin starts ris-

ing. n Two 13-year-olds do a simultaneous cannonball into the deep end. n Jimmy starts wondering what Billie Jean will look like in a swim suit. n Billie Jean wonders what she will look like in a swim suit. n Darden’s Heating and Air orders extra spare parts. n A recently hatched bluebird peers out the little hole to the outside world, steps up and shoves off. n Luther, a hound dog, lies on his side in the shade and snores. n The cork goes under as 9-year-old Jeffrey catches his first fish. A 3-ounce red throat. n A purple martin swoops and catches a

mosquito on the fly. n Six-year-old “Boo” gets sunburned on the back of his neck as he watches ants go in and out their hole. n Vanilla ice cream drips underneath Alicia’s chocolate dip-top as her mom urges “Eat faster!” n Like walrus, the ocean shore populates with fresh, white human skin. n A Newsom’s farmer looks at chest high corn, then to the sky. n A 5-foot copperhead stretches his belly across the warm country road, puzzled at the oncoming roar he feels. n Mr. Darden picks up a boxer turtle at woods edge, anticipating the excitement of his 7-year-old grandson. And so unheralded, unseen, unstoppable, like some invisible injection, all that is alive is transformed by the mystical changing of the seasons. For the summer of 2011 has arrived! ←

Columnist Rex Alphin writes about the arrival of summer.

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western tidewater living

party pix Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner

At left, Joyce Smith, left, and Sarah Kingsley attend the Franklin-Southampton Area Chamber of Commerce’s annual dinner on March 24 at Cypress Cove Country Club; bottom left, Kelly Mills, Heidi Jacobson and Tammy Mourett; bottom right, John Warren, Rose Warren and Cheryle Stepp; bottom center, Dan Hoctor and Teresa Beale. Photos by Merle MonAhan

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party pix Franklin High Prom

Attending the Franklin High School prom on May 14 were, from left in photo at side, Ambria Springfield, Codee Postell, his sister, Conya Postell, and Derke Vinson; below, De’Montaz “Taz” Simmons with his date, Chasity Hunt. Simmons’ tie was designed and made by Clinton Smith, a teacher at Franklin High School. Photos by FRANK A. DAVIS

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party pix Beef Barbecue

The Hunterdale Ruritan Club prepared 3,200 pounds of beef for the 48th annual Hunterdale Ruritan Club Western Beef Barbecue on May 18 at Bronco Rod & Gun Club. At left, James Parker of Suffolk, left, and Robert Johnson of Gates, N.C.; below left, Serena White of Isle of Wight, Kimberly Rideout of Suffolk and Cheryl Falls of Holland; bottom left, Janice Worrell and Sarah Savage, both of Wakefield; bottom right, Landa Daughtrey, Corey Gallagher and Erica Daughtrey. Photos by DALE LIESCH

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757-242-9444 FARMERS 9409 Western Tidewater Living - Summer 2011:Layout 1

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Helping those who help others. Free checking for churches and non-profit organizations. At Farmers Bank we’re proud of our tradition of being a community bank and we want to help those who are helping our neighbors. With a Non-Profit Appreciation Account, benefits include: • No minimum balance requirement • Free Online Banking and Bill Pay • Free Farmers Bank VISA check card when used as a credit transaction* • Bonus rates on CDs (an extra .25% APY on a CD up to a one year term - not applicable for CD specials)**

Call 242-6411 or visit www.farmersbankva.com to learn how you can start banking with us today! Harbour View, Suffolk 6255 College Drive Windsor 50 East Windsor Boulevard

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western tidewater living

party pix Rawls Art Exhibition

Charlie Settle, left, and Joe Stutts attend the Rawls Museum Arts’ Regional High School Exhibition & Education Outreach Program Exhibition opening reception on April 21; below left, Maria Frazier and her dad, Jorge Frazier; below right, Pattie Watkinson, from left, Rachel Hancock and Dennis Hancock PHOTOS BY MERLE MONAHAN

63rd Annual Shad Planking

The Shad Planking is an annual rite of spring and Virginia politics, and on April 20th this year’s event attracted more than 1,000 attendees to the Wakefield Sportsman’s Club in the woods just south of Wakefield; at left, Bruce and Gayle Phillips of Sebrell; above, Warren Beale of Franklin, Harrell Turner of Branchville and Doug Chesson of Zuni. Submitted photos

16 western tidewater living

party pix TRI-RIVERS TENNIS

Below left, Windsor High School tennis players Bryce Lawrence, left, and Zach Stenger-Hayden celebrate after winning the doubles title of the Tri-Rivers District Tournament in Franklin on May 21. Among those attending the tourney were, in front, Shaun Derama, Parish Garza, Jashonda Elliott, William Jackson, Kiera Cofield, Telvin Sumblin, Cheyanne Banks, Rebecca Gray and Brian Holland; in back, Samantha Bruck, Jennetta Sessoms, Sharnice Williams, Asia Lee, Tyreeka Hawks, Donqua Thomas, Kaitlyn Trotter and Maura Zurfluh.

PHOTOS BY FRANK A. DAVIS

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Trendy Gifts and Old-Time Confections An eclectic mix of contemporary gifts coalesce with a superb assortment of old fashioned candies and gourmet foods making Boykins’ brand new Whittington Station a charming place to shop for both young ... and, not-so-young. 757-214-6923, 32128 Main St.

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western tidewater living

party pix

Pig Pickin’

At left, Patti Hardison of Windsor shows off a plate served during the annual Pig Pickin’ in Windsor in May; bottom left, Meg Rowland, Pam Alphin and Michelle Thacker, all of Windsor; below, Ashley and Brandon Watson of Carrsville, Frank Montero and Tracey Lewis, both of Elizabeth City, N.C., and Garry Murphy of Franklin.

PHOTOS BY MERLE MONAHAN

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western tidewater living

Day in the park

At left, Kendra Powell, Wild Thing (Cheyenne Yerton) and Yousra Ahmed of Southampton High School’s Key Club attend Day in the Park at Barrett’s Landing in Franklin on April 2; bottom left, Cameron McHenry, Trooper Teddy and Trooper Mike Maverdes; below, Diane and Jeff Zeigler with their dog, Minnie; bottom right, DeShon Rollins, Shamia Lindsey and Shayla Brown with the State Farm Bear.

Photos by KATE ARCHER

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22 western tidewater living

what’s cooking

serving in the service

story by Merle Monahan photography by Don Bridgers

here aren’t many people outside the White House staff who can say they cooked a meal for former President Ronald Reagan — or prepared dinner for former U.S. Attorney General Ed Meese and former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich. But Curtis Long can. The retired Sedley-area Army sergeant has cooked for and served more foreign dignitaries, ambassadors and American government heads than he can remember. The award-winning chef, who spent 22 years in the military before retiring in 1988, was an aide to several Army generals from 1970 to 1988, including Gen. Edward Dinges, who hosted the dinner Reagan attended. “My memory isn’t the best, but I do remember the menu that night,” said Long. “It was Chateaubriand, snow-capped broccoli, company potatoes, stuffed mushrooms and cherry-berry on a meringue cloud for dessert. These are mostly my own creations.” Reagan complimented Long on the meal and shook his hand. “President Reagan was a special person,” Long said. As an aide, he prepared and served dinners See GOURMET page 23

Curtis Long browses through a cookbook.

western tidewater living

GOURMET continued from page 22

to the general and his guests. The 63-year-old concedes that there’s no place he’d rather be than in the kitchen. Born in Franklin, Long learned to cook from his mother when he was a kid. By the time he was 13, he had his first job as a cook in Virginia Beach. “My parents knew a lady, Miss Murray, who ran a boarding house at the beach, and that’s where I lived,” Long said. “It was just a little distance from where I worked.” He was a short-order cook, cooking and selling hot dogs and hamburgers at the oceanfront. After 18 days on the job, Long was promoted to cook in a pizza restaurant. “I didn’t know how to make pizzas,” he said. “But it didn’t take me long to learn. I just loved it.” He liked cooking so much that he entered an apprentice program in culinary arts in 1964 in Hyde Park, N.Y., and St. Paul’s College in 1965. In 1966, Long was drafted into the Army. “I tried my hardest to get into the cooking division,” he said. But they told me, “This is wartime, and you’ll go where you’re needed.” Long served in the infantry and, in 1968,

Curtis Long’s recipes:

CHATEAUBRIAND Ingredients: 5-pound beef tenderloin 2 bottles (8 ounces each) French dressing 2 bottles (8 ounces each) Italian dressing 1 bottle (8 ounce) red wine vinegar Salt, pepper, paprika and garlic salt Directions: Rub tenderloin with a mixture of salt, pepper, paprika and garlic salt. Mix vinegar and dressings together and pour over tenderloin in a pan deep enough to cover meat. Marinate from one-half of a day to overnight; overnight is better. Remove meat from marinade and place on rack in oven. Roast at 400 to 450 degrees for 25 minutes for rare, 30 to 45 minutes for medium rare and one hour for well done; one hour is better. Baste with pan juices every 5 to 10 minutes. PORK ALA WAM Ingredients: 2- to-3-pound pork tenderloin 1 jar (8 ounce) honey 1 bottle (10 ounce) soy sauce 1 garlic clove, crushed ½ cup sugar 1 can (14-ounce) chicken stock Directions: Combine last five ingredients and pour over tenderloin. Marinate overnight. Bake in sauce for one hour at 325 to 350 degrees. Slice and serve immediately.

ended up in Vietnam. He was discharged in 1969. The next year he re-enlisted and remained in the Army for 18 years. “During this tour of duty, I traveled over most of the States, to Germany, England and Italy and back to Vietnam twice. But this time I was able to pursue my cooking,” Long said. He attended chef and restaurant management schools in England and Germany, as well as Colorado and Florida. He has won many awards for his cooking. “I don’t have any place to put them,” Long said. It wasn’t long before his culinary talents became known, and he was appointed as aide to generals. “I worked for Generals Crosby, Dinges and Korpal,” he said. “I can’t remember their first names; I just called them general.” His tenure with Dinges at Fort Sill, Okla., stands out because of two incidents. “One was because I cooked for President Reagan, and the other was General Dinges’ daughter’s wedding reception,” Long said. “Mrs. Dinges had asked me to make a five-tier wedding cake. Well, when we placed it on the table,

ORANGE-WALNUT SALAD Ingredients: 2 small heads bibb lettuce, torn into bite-sized pieces 1 pound fresh spinach, torn into bite-sized pieces 2 oranges, peeled, sectioned and seeded ½ small onion, sliced and separated into rings ½ cup coarsely chopped walnuts or pecans 2 teaspoons butter or margarine, melted Directions: Place first four ingredients into large bowl. Saute walnuts or pecans in butter until lightly browned. Add to lettuce mixture. SWEET & SOUR DRESSING FOR ORANGE-WALNUT SALAD Ingredients: 1 Tsp. paprika 1 Tsp. celery or poppy seeds 1 Tsp. dry mustard 1 Tsp. salt 1 Tsp. grated onion 1 cup vegetable oil ½ cup vinegar ½ cup sugar

she said it was way too tall.” It was getting late, so the only thing they could do was shorten the legs on a table in the garage. “She sent General Dinges out to make the adjustments,” Long said. “When he came back, I will never forget the expression on Mrs. Dinges’ face. The general had shortened the legs of an antique table.” ←

1 can peeled chili peppers, chopped 7 cups raw rice Salt and pepper Directions: Thoroughly mix sour cream and chili peppers. Butter ½-quart casserole dish well. Season rice with salt and pepper. Layer rice, sour cream and cheese, in this order, ending with sour cream. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes. For a double recipe, bake for 45 minutes. Just before serving, sprinkle top of casserole with cheese and melt under broiler.

Directions: Combine all ingredients in jar and shake vigorously. Chill for several hours before use.

HOT SHRIMP DIP Ingredients: 16 ounces cream cheese 1 tomato, chopped fine 2 medium onions, minced 2 gloves garlic, minced 2 to 3 jalapeno peppers, diced 2 cups shrimp, cooked and chopped fine.

RICE AND SOUR CREAM CASSEROLE Ingredients: ½ pound sharp cheddar cheese, grated 2 cups sour cream, salted

Directions: Combine first five ingredients. Cook in double boiler until smooth. Add shrimp and stir. Reheat when ready to serve with king-sized corn chips.

24 western tidewater living

catching up with

Alexis R. Joyner story by Stephen Cowles

’m forever working on something. Sometimes three or four projects at once,” said Alexis R. Joyner. That something being the making of art — his profession and passion. Originally from Capron, Joyner chairs the Fine Arts Department at Elizabeth City State University in North Carolina. While he’s involved with a few small projects at the moment, simultaneously, “what’s consuming my time is a veterans’ monument — not memorial — to be unveiled by July 4 at the Veterans’ Park in Fayetteville, N.C.,” the 55-yearold said. The piece is for the Veterans Hands Project, which involves casting hands of living servicemen. There will be 100, one for each North Carolina county. “I was responsible for 12 counties in the eastern region,” Joyner said. “Each county had to choose a primary veteran candidate. The main vet’s hands from each will be cast in bronze, those of supporters in special cement on a separate wall.” As reported by Elizabeth City’s newspaper, The Daily Advance, Joyner earned acclaim last winter for a series of clay sculptures featuring African-American women. The piece was called “Crowd Control.” The response was incredible, he said. “People were really, really moved by them,” Joyner said. “On opening night, I was flooded with all kinds of questions.” To be identified as an African-American artist “is not limiting at all,” Joyner said. “I feel that I try to communicate my experience as a human experience, which is universal.” One of his closest associates, Professor Drusiano Scerbo, described his colleague of 20 years as a reserved kind of fellow. “People have no idea of the sensitivity and knowledge he has,” Scerbo said. “He’s kind of a Renaissance Man. From music to poetry to sculpture, he has knowledge of it.” Joyner’s memory “reminds me of the old folks back in Italy. They keep track of the people they know,” Scerbo said. “Sometimes it’s so strange that two different people from two different cultures share the same quality of life.”

“That’s one thing that Joyner and I are trying to teach as well – connectivity,” Scerbo added. When they started at the university, there were just the two in the department. Today there’s a full-time staff of six. Joyner and Scerbo have worked together on projects, sometimes involving students. “We just rely on one another,” Scerbo said. “I’m fortunate to have met him, coming to the States and working with him.” Joyner spent his childhood in Southampton County, where his artistry has its roots. “I started drawing when I was about 2 to 3 years old,” said the son of the late Martha D. Whitfield and Jimmie William Joyner Sr. “I have older brothers who also drew,” he said. “As Artist Alexis Joyner, a Capron native, displays one of his works. soon as I found I could activate space, I was hooked.” “Over the years it has pretty much been allThat obviously wasn’t just a childhood pasconsuming,” Joyner said. “Of course, throughtime. out my life, when I’m not creating, I write po“I drew constantly ever since I was a child in etry. Mainly I write it for me.” elementary school,” Joyner said. “I took all the He’s had several readings down through the art I could take in high school, which was only years at open-mic poetry readings and similar three courses.” events. His undergraduate studies were done at VirThis writing has been further inspirational. ginia State University, and he graduated from “Sometimes the words will trigger an image, Norfolk State and Old Dominion universities, and an image triggers words,” Joyner said. concentrating in sculpture. He still works with clay in addition to wood, Today he has a master of fine arts degree. some stone and metals. All are challenging. He started teaching at Elizabeth City State “If it was too easy, I would probably stop,” he University in 1986 and still teaches sculpture, said. “I look forward to problem-solving. I wel3-D design and ceramics. come the challenge. That’s what kept me sort of “Mine is still pretty much hands-on,” Joyner sane over the years. It’s been a blessing to have said. my career and the thing I love as an outlet, you He emphasized the importance of his pasknow.” ← sion.

26 western tidewater living

difference makers ker, ford, Daniel Croc Gunn, Kisha Wat wn Da , es rn Ba difen, Lula m left, Paige Stur lunteerism are, fro vo h ug ro th e nc ing a differe er residents mak Western Tidewat r. rte d Rob Ca Murray Turner an stories by Stephen Cowles Merle Monahan & Dale Liesch photography by Don Bridgers

Meet some folks in Western Tidewater who are doing what they can to make a difference in the community

western tidewater living

Dawn Reed Gunn

“I love to shelve books.” How many people do you know who can truly say such a thing, especially when not getting paid for it? Dawn Reed Gunn is just such a person. For the past few years, this all-purpose volunteer at the Walter Cecil Rawls Branch of the Blackwater Regional Library in Courtland brings not only order to the stacks but an enthusiasm to co-workers and patrons alike, particularly young people. “The library was my favorite place to go ever since I was a child,” said Gunn. “As soon as my children were able to walk and hold a library book . . ., they’ve been going ever since.” Those offspring are now grown. Son Jason, recently married, and daughter, Hillary, works at Bronco Federal Credit Union. Their father, Marvin Gunn Jr., is retired from International Paper. “It’s just amazing what the small library does, and I don’t think people realize what they offer,” Gunn said. “The library in Courtland is the most kid-friendly library. They have a wonderful teen program every Wednesday. There’s a summer reading program for all ages.” Branch Manager Iola Lamison said Gunn is “very effective” when it comes to letting the community know of interesting books and activities. “She’ll get the fliers put wherever she can,” Lamison said.

Kisha Watford

When Kisha Watford and her family moved to Boykins in 1993, volunteering was the best way to get involved in her community. A teacher at Meherrin Elementary School, Watford quickly learned of many opportunities but found the most rewarding when she tried to enroll her daughter in Girl Scouts. “I was told by the national organization that there was no Girl Scout troop in this area,” Watford said. “Then I was asked if I would consider starting one. I was a little apprehensive, but I thought, I am a teacher — I can handle this.” Watford started her troop 12 years ago, and it’s still going strong. She has had a couple girls, one of whom is her daughter, earn Silver awards — the second highest honor in Girl Scouts. Watford also tutors for Boykins Neighborhood Outreach Center started by Southampton Board of Supervisors Carl Faison and his wife, the Rev. Lillie Faison. “This is an organization that helps students in the area who might need a little extra attention with school work,” she said. Watford is also a member of the Franklin Tri-County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. “This sorority does a number of things, such as helping with voter reg-

“She promotes our book sales, is head of the Friends of the Library. She’s good with children and puts on little programs herself dealing with ecology and that type of thing. She’s big on nature.” Gunn’s service to the community began when she was a sophomore in high school. “I volunteered to work with the special-education program at Southampton High School. That was my first,” she said. “I’m a member of the Southampton Litter Control Council and have been so for years. We try and figure out how to educate people about conservation, recycling and what it means to our community.” Gunn noted the council is working on a program to carry into the schools that would educate children about recycling, reusing and reducing waste from each household. When asked why she does such service, Gunn said, “I think everyone wants to feel they have something to contribute, and the best part of the things I do and the places I work is convincing people they do have something to contribute.” “I think my biggest thing is to encourage people to use the gifts they have and share them. There’s so many talented people. Everyone has something to offer,” she added.

istration and awarding scholarships to deserving college students,” she said. Boykins Mayor Spier Edwards said it’s hard to put into words what Watford does on a daily basis. “She is very energetic and caring, devoted to her church and the young people here,” Edwards said. “She makes a difference. She has done a tremendous job with the Girl Scouts. Not many people would step up and do what she’s done. The town should be proud of her.” Watford just wants to help, especially young people. “I hope I’m helping to pave the way for our future leaders, my children included,” she said. Watford and her husband, LeAndrew, are the parents of LeAndrea, 17, and Kevin, 14. “I think my biggest thing is to encourage people to use the gifts they have and share them. There’s so many talented people. Everyone has something to offer,” she said.

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Rob Carter Rob Carter grew up around football. From memories of University of Alabama Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant at age 8 to playing linebacker at Marshall University in Huntington, W.Va., football is a part of his life. A volunteer with the Franklin-Southampton Youth Football League for 28 years, Carter coaches the Franklin Mustangs. He began coaching the Sedley Mustangs when he returned to Franklin in the 1980s to work at the Union Camp paper mill. The team had 20 to 25 kids but since has grown to 60 to 100 players. The team also has 25 to 40 cheerleaders. More than 1,100 boys have come through the program, including sons whose fathers played for him, Carter said. “I think we have a pretty solid program,” he said. “All the local schools build from this.” The Mustangs have played in every league championship game since 1986, except one in the early part of the 2000s, Carter said. The Mustangs have won 13 championships under his watch. “We have a pretty good tradition,” he said. “You don’t win them all.” The Courtland Indians have also been a “backbone of the league” with strong teams in the 1980s. Holland and Boykins also had dominant teams. Carter credits current and former assistant coaches for good

teams. Parent involvement has also been important. “I’ve had good coaches, good moms and good dads,” he said. Resident Debbie Beale called Carter “masterful at getting parent involvement each year” and applauded his and his wife, Linda’s, participation in the league. “He is a true Western Tidewater resident who has and continues to make a difference for the wee folks in our area,” Beale said. In the late 1980s, Carter served as commissioner of the league. His activity in the league has spread throughout his family as his wife and stepdaughters, Christy Fowler and Patricia Davis, have all participated. “A coach told me if I wanted to meet a good woman to find her in church,” Carter said. “I found (Linda) in a church parking lot on a Sunday morning.” Fowler was a cheerleader for the Courtland team when Carter met her mother. Fowler later filmed games when she was in high school. Carter said his wife runs the concession stand for the league. “I try to make this a family affair,” he said. Carter’s grandchildren are Grace Davis, 10; Ellen Davis, 9; Ben Davis, 6; and Addison Fowler, 1.

western tidewater living

Murray Turner

The blessing of having three healthy children is part of what’s inspired Murray H. Turner to give of himself. The Franklin native is a pint shy of having donated 10 gallons of blood. Having a particularly desirable O-negative blood type, he gives life to people in need, whether it’s for surgery or an emergency. Another way Turner has helped children is through March of Dimes, which raises money to prevent birth defects. Beginning in the late 1980s, the father of Adam and Erin Turner and Megan Whitehead walked for Union Camp and then later International Paper, heading up the Franklin paper mill’s fundraising effort. When Turner began his 35-year career at Union Camp in 1975, one of his supervisors introduced him to the Hunterdale Ruritan Club. “Kenny Porter’s the one who got me into it,” said Turner. “I joined the club in 1985. After 1988, I became secretary, then vice president and president, and have repeated offices several times.” “He’s Mr. Ruritan,” Porter said. “He’s completely dedicated to Ruritan. He’s the first one to get involved in projects. We sponsor a baseball league, and he’s the backbone of that, too. I can’t say enough about that young man.” Turner had been long familiar with the Ruritans, an organization that got its start in 1928. “When I was a child, I played (baseball) for Hunterdale Ruritans,” he said. Turner added that his service to the organization is his way of “giving back.” Erin Turner is proud of her dad. “You can’t mention Hunterdale Ruritan Little League Baseball and not think of my dad,” she said. “He was the one who initiated the Little League teams, which began several years ago.” “Every year, he is sitting behind the desk during sign-ups, ordering equipment, uniforms and supplies throughout the season, and he is the first and last one at each home game,” she added. “Family vacations are planned around the baseball schedule.” Murray Turner is also active in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. “There’s great satisfaction that you’d be doing something that helps others,” said the husband of Marianne Turner. “I just wish more people would be involved. It feels good helping a fellow person.”

Lula Barnes Lula Barnes volunteers in order to stay active and feel young. The spry 75-year-old has five children, nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, but she still finds time to volunteer at Franklin’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Community Center. “I just wanted to get going,” Barnes said. “I just wanted to get doing something.” Volunteering is what keeps her going, said Frank Davis, director of Franklin Parks & Recreation. “She doesn’t like to sit down,” Davis said. “She’s always got to be doing something. She has more energy than most young people.” Barnes helps serve meals to the elderly and organizes many programs at the center, including Mother’s and Father’s Day programs. She also volunteers with senior inspirational groups that visit nursing home residents. “She just does a little bit of everything,” Davis said. “She’s so well known because she visits so many people.”

Barnes has been an active volunteer at the center since 1999. She rarely misses a day to volunteer, Davis said. “If she misses a day, she’s got to be sick or out of town,” he said. Barnes is also active at White Oak Springs Missionary Baptist Church, where she is a member of the deaconess board and sings in the choir. She is the mother of Gerald, Charlotte, Ronald, Kenneth and Scheluryer Barnes. Before volunteering full time, Barnes worked for Union Camp in office services.

30 western tidewater living

Daniel Crocker It’s only natural for young boys to aspire to become firemen when they grow up, but 14-year-old Daniel Crocker couldn’t wait. At age 2, Daniel started riding to the fire station with his uncle, Clarence Newsome, president of the Windsor Volunteer Fire Department. “He was so interested that it wasn’t long before he could identify all the equipment and tell you where it was stored. He could also name the different fire trucks,” said his mother, Amy Crocker. “That’s true,” Daniel said. “Uncle Clarence bought me my own scaleddown turnout gear, and I was as proud as I could be. As I grew older, the firemen would let me wash the fire trucks and help with the barbecue fundraiser that we have every year, things like that. I’d do anything they’d let me do.” “I can’t wait until I get old enough to join the junior department,” he added. A ninth-grader at Windsor High School, Daniel spends four to five days a week during the spring playing baseball for the junior varsity Dukes and the Windsor Athletic Association’s Dodgers. He has won 13 baseball trophies. “And that’s not all he does,” said Windsor Police Chief Vic Reynolds, who recently appointed Daniel captain of the police youth auxiliary. “Daniel is one of the most morally and ethically gifted young men of his age that I have ever met,” Reynolds said. “He participates in a ton of activities here in town and is well respected by his peers.” Daniel will serve as Reynolds’ liaison between the department and the youth. “He will be a tremendous help in getting youthrelated activities started in the town,” Reynolds said. Daniel has been helping with the chief ’s Christmas Toys for Tots program and last year rode with the chief to deliver toys. Afterward, Daniel helped hand out toys at the police department. “Daniel is very compassionate,” said his mother. “After he helped hand out toys at the police station, he came home with tears in his eyes. He told me that a lady had come in to see if she could get bicycles for her twins. And when she found out that we had them, she was so happy, she cried.”

‘Uncle Clarence bought me my own scaleddown turnout gear, and I was as proud as I could be.’ Daniel Crocker — Future Fireman

western tidewater living

Paige Sturdifen Coming from a family of eight, Paige Sturdifen knows the needs of families. Perhaps chief among those is food. “We’ve had a food pantry at our church for about five years,” said Sturdifen, a member of Mars Hill Baptist Church. A lifelong Capron resident, Sturdifen and her husband, who came from a family of 12, are the food bank’s directors. The pantry got its start through Jean Stephenson with the Southampton County Department of Social Services. The agency was looking for an outreach area in Capron. “And with the permission of our church, we took it on,” Sturdifen said. “We distribute USDA and non-USDA food, enough to last two to three days, to low-income families. We try to distribute from the basic food groups.” The food bank has a $1,500 annual budget. “We started with 25 households and now serve approximately 265 families, about 580 people,” Sturdifen said. “It’s non-stop. I check every day with the food bank via the Internet to get food. You have to monitor your stock and keep the food moving. I could look this morning and see canned beans. If I don’t look today, they’ll be gone tomorrow.” Sturdifen and her husband, the parents of Kelita, an associate minister involved in the church youth ministry, and Jesse Jr. of Baltimore, don’t do all this alone.

“We have a constant volunteer staff of about 25 people, and another couple, Mary and Willie Turner, help out,” Sturdifen said. In addition to serving as the church secretary, she’s a deaconess and Sunday school teacher. She’s also involved in the 2-year-old Mary Louise Shawl Ministry, which is named for two deceased church missionaries. “We provide shawls to the nursing home or people in some type of distress in the community,” said Sturdifen. The Rev. Ronnie Mitchell, pastor of Mars Hill, calls Sturdifen’s work “exemplary.” “She’s always willing to help those in need,” Mitchell said. “She’s an excellent community supporter.” Seeing a need and her care for people keeps Sturdifen going. “With the economy being what it is, people are actually struggling and need food,” she said. “Some of our clients are working poor. It’s hard not to help people when you see they need help and you can help.” Distribution takes place 1 to 5 p.m. the third Thursday of each month. Call 434-658-4576 for details.

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32 western tidewater living

story by Gwen Albers photography by Don Bridgers

eff Turner figures he’ll either die from a mosquito-borne disease or DEET. But neither the sting of the blood-sucking insects or the active ingredient in bug repellant will keep Turner from patrolling “the rivers we call the Blackwater and Nottoway.” “I just love it,” Turner said. “Not even the mosquitoes can keep me away. There’s nothing better than having the river to yourself.” Raised in Sedley, the 51-year-old grew up along the rivers. “On Sundays after church, you’d grab the kids and go down to the river to shoot hunting pistols, which was illegal as crap,” he said. “I got real good at seeing a snake from a hundred yards. We just wasted them. That was before the Riverkeeper program.” Later in life, a settled-down Jeff Turner learned about the Riverkeeper program — part of the Waterkeeper Alliance, founded in 1999 by environmental attorney and activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and several veteran waterkeepers. The alliance is a global movement of on-the-water advocates who patrol and protect over 100,000 miles of rivers, streams and coastlines in North and South

meet the riverkeeper

See RIVERKEEPER page 33

western tidewater living

RIVERKEEPER continued from page 32

America, Europe, Australia, Asia and Africa. Turner inquired and learned it involved more than he expected. “I just wanted a damn hat and to say I was the Riverkeeper and pick up trash,” he said. Turner had to create a tax-exempt organization under the Internal Revenue Service, write bylaws, establish a board of directors and raise money. The Blackwater and Nottoway Riverkeeper Program in 2000 became the first in Virginia and the 47th in the world. A couple times a month year-round, Turner takes two- to three-day trips on the rivers. He

stocks his nearly 40-year-old, 15-foot-by-6-foot johnboat with camping gear, food, a fishing pole and an old 20-gauge shotgun. “It’s an all-in-one tool,” Turner said of the gun. “It’s the single best device for getting fishing line out of the trees.” He looks for trash and environmental problems on the rivers; he picks up the trash and reports problems to the necessary agencies. “I fish as much as I can and mostly look for pollution problems, trash and stuff like tires,” he said. Once he found a car, another time a surfboard and once in a while, a bag of trash or deer car-

cass. When on the river, Turner prefers the cold weather to the heat, and he says the mosquitoes are an unbeatable battle. “I’ve tried every new high-tech device,” he said. Turner, a 1978 graduate of Franklin High, wasn’t always the riverkeeper. A near-crippling injury made it hard to do much in the way of work during his adult life. Turner at age 17 made the mistake of hopping into a drunk friend’s car. The driver lost control of the Volkswagen Rabbit near Southampton Memorial Hospital. The car flipped and landed See RIVERKEEPER page 34

34 western tidewater living

the spirit of moonpie

A blue heron takes flight. RIVERKEEPER continued from page 33

on its roof. “I’m 6-foot-4 and my head was touching the ceiling,” he said. “I broke my neck, leg and hand. I was told I’d never walk again. That really sucked, being 17. No more fishing, no more hunting.” Turner got lucky. “A couple months later, I wiggled my right toes,” he said. “Everyone got all excited.” He got involved with the University of

Virginia Spinal Cord Project. “They kicked my butt, got me back to where I am today,” Turner said. He hoped to work for Union Camp, but his physical condition from the accident wouldn’t permit it. “I ended up working for a drugstore for years, sweeping the floor,” Turner said. Today, he’s paid $650 a month to be the riverkeeper. ←

lackwater Nottoway Riverkeeper Jeff Turner is never alone when he patrols the rivers. The Spirit of Moonpie is always by his side. After most of his two- to threeday trips on the Blackwater and Nottoway rivers, Turner writes about his excursions for The Tidewater News. He always incorporates something about the Spirit of Moonpie, Turner’s terrier mix that died in 2009 at age 16. “She went out on the river a lot of times,” said Turner, who got Moonpie when she was 6 weeks old. “She was something to have around on the boat.” Turner said he continues to include Moonpie in his stories because “she was so well loved by the public.” “You know, 90 percent of the Moonpie stories, I’m making up,” he said. “She ice-skated and climbed trees, crazy stuff like that. It’s all fantasy.” Turner’s not ready to give up writing about his beloved Moonpie.

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36 western tidewater living

story by Gwen Albers photography by Tracie Goudie and Submitted

inger-songwriter Colton James made a promise to God. Let me make it in country music, and I’ll try to put out good music with a message. James is getting closer after a 15-year effort that’s taken him to bars and honkytonks up and down the East Coast and eventually to Nashville, where for the past two years, he has spent 75 percent of his time working on his music. He has opened for the likes of Toby Keith, the Dixie Chicks, Jason Aldean, Joe Nichols, Mark Chesnutt, Chris Cagle and Lonestar, among others. Last year, James opened up for the legendary George Jones, joining him on stage for a performance of “I Don’t Need Your Rockin’ Chair.” A Portsmouth native who calls Courtland home, James earlier this month was scheduled to officially release his first recording, “Little Ride in the Country,” and first music video to a song from the album “Date with Dixie.” “We’re hoping to draw some major attention with the song and video and follow with a radio tour and shows all over the Southeast,” James said. The CD is expected to be available at Walmart. James wrote or co-wrote eight of the 11 tracks on “Little Ride in the Country,” which includes veteran writers Greg Crowe (Montgomery Gentry’s “Lonely and Gone,” Sammy Kershaw’s “Little Did I Know”), Jim Collins (Kenny Chesney’s “The Good Stuff ” and “She Thinks My Tractor’s Sexy”) and founding member of the Nashville Songwriters Association International, Bill Brock. Other songs include his military salute, “Brave Men,” and the inspiring “What Keeps Her Strong,” co-written with Brock and Gary Compton as a tribute to those battling cancer. “It has a little of something for everybody — a lot of songs from the heart, from the military to cancer to father-son relationships,” he said. “I

Keeping a promise Colton James makes a music video for “Date with Dixie” in Nashville in May.

See COLTON JAMES page 37

western tidewater living

Colton James with wife, Cassie; daughter, Hailey; and son, Austin, at their home in Courtland.

COLTON JAMES continued from page 36

like to write about our way of life.” James on May 27 shot the music video for “Date with Dixie” in Nashville, which is expected to air on The Country Network and Great American Country. The song is about a guy who heads to his favorite watering hole after a long hard week at work. The song talks about how the dance floor’s hoppin’ and behind the bar works sweet Casey, which coincidentally is the name of James’ wife and mother of his children, Austin, 14, and Hailey, 11. “Date with Dixie” is a tribute to 27 song titles, including the “Devil Went Down to Georgia,” “Free Bird,” “Sweet Home Alabama,” “Boot Scoot Boogie” and “Simple Man.” A YOUNGER COLTON JAMES

Country music runs deep through James’ veins. His childhood was spent riding in the front seat of his Dad’s 1969, three-speed-on-thecolumn Chevy to go fishing in places like Mill Dam Creek in Virginia Beach’s rural Pungo area. The pickup’s eight-track that introduced him to the sounds of Merle Haggard, Hank Williams, Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash, Tammy Wynette and Willie Nelson went from the dash of the four-wheel drive and into the dash of the solid mahogany Carolina skiff boat before any

hook was baited. “There was a couple there, Mr. and Mrs. Dozier,” James said. “They lived on the creek and would let us use their private boat ramp at their house. I remember as a kid, we would go up there, and she would call my name and always had a bag of candy. She called it ‘my goody bag.’” Singer Don Williams was one of James’ biggest influences. “He’s just a great storyteller,” he said. “I think he has taught me some great songwriting abilities.” Family-rides in his Dad’s truck were like singa-longs with a young Colton eventually falling asleep across his mother’s lap. “My mom’s a great singer,” he said. “She sang in the church and inspired me.” While both of his grandmothers played piano and organ, it was his grandfather — a West Virginia coalminer — whose life influenced future generations. “I grew up around country,” James said. “We’d go to grandmothers’ every Sunday. I remember sitting there with them. They cooked pinto beans and cornbread and fried chicken. All the family got together. They called the family the James gang.” Today, that same Carolina skiff and Chevy truck remain in the family, which is why earn-

ing a regional sponsorship from Chevrolet in the summer of 2010 was a dream come true. Colton received the sponsorship after headlining at the Franklin-Southampton County Fair in August. “I’m proud to be part of the Chevy family,” he said. NEW FRIENDSHIP

In October, James and Nashville singersongwriter Lee Bogan were headed for North Carolina’s Outer Banks for a radio interview. The highway to the Atlantic Coast passes the Currituck, N.C., home of one of America’s most famous monster trucks — the Grave Digger. James remembers asking Lee if he liked monster trucks. “It’s my second favorite thing next to NASCAR,” Lee replied. The flash of a few CDs got James and Bogan into the Digger’s Dungeon and a meeting with Grave Digger creator Dennis Anderson. The bond resulted in James and Bogan writing a song for Anderson’s newest monster truck, the King Sling. “He treated us so kind,” James said. “He was really excited about meeting us. He loves country music and he invited us to his shop. We were all hanging around the shop, and me and Lee got our acoustic guitars. The next thing you know, See COLTON JAMES page 38

38 western tidewater living COLTON JAMES continued from page 37

we’re playing a live concert in his shop and writing a song about the King Sling truck up until 2:30 in the morning.” “He was just down to earth and friendly as he could be,” Bogan said about Anderson. The next morning, when James and Bogan hit the airwaves on Dixie 105.7, the legendary Outer Banks station that’s helped many performers become stars, Anderson showed up. “We had a giant party there,” James said. “We had a great time on the air.” Anderson invited them back a few weeks later for the debut of the King Sling at his Muddy Motorsports Park. “In front of 5,000 people, we sang the ‘King Sling,’” James said. “He opened the arms to all of his thousands of fans to me. He was so generous and kind to my family. It was a great honor to write this song.” As for the song James and Bogan composed for King Sling, “I love it,” Bogan said. “It rocks. It’s almost a cross of Ted Nugent and AC/DC.” CHARITY

Colton James’ time in Nashville led him to Tennessee Voices for Children, an advocate for the emotional and behavioral well-being of children and their families. James told TVC Executive Director Charlotte Bryson he appreciated the non-profit’s work with children and promised to write them a theme song. He teamed up with Nashville songwriter Kim Tribble. “I remember the day we wrote it,” James said. “He came and picked me up at the house, and we went to his writing studio in Brentwood. On the way over there, we were talking about the song. I remember saying a prayer to myself and saying, ‘I hope this song turns out special for the kids.’ Kim picks up a pencil and wrote down a line, ‘one voice can turn into millions.’” Ninety minutes later, the song was written. “It was an amazing story how it was written,” James said. Not too long after, he was invited to an elementary school in Hampton to meet a class of special needs students. The children had heard of James and his music and wanted to meet him. “Me and Lee

Colton James, left, shares the stage with legendary country star George Jones.

went over there and played them some songs,” James said. “These kids had a rough life. It was a magical moment in that classroom.” The next day, he recorded “One Million Voices.” “We got the song done and didn’t tell them (TVC) anything about it,” James said. “We wanted to surprise them.” He and Tribble then shared it with the folks from Tennessee Voices. “I remember sitting there,” James said. “They heard it and were all teared up. I remember saying to myself, ‘if God lets me make it in country, I would always put out good songs and try to send a message out with my music.’” RECENT MONTHS

James recently entered into a business association with Kathy Latham with Latham Marine, a world-class marine hardware and steering company in Florida. Latham heard James perform “Brave Men” at the Miami International Boat Show earlier this year. That led to a meeting with Monte Daniels, account executive with the Sportsman Channel, a television and digital media company devoted to the more than 82 million in the United States that focuses on hunting, shooting and fishing. The channel’s new series, Yeti Coolers’ Ultimate Hunt, is dedicated to raising funds to find a cure for cancer while enjoying the outdoors. The all-star lineup of outdoor TV personalities is also joined by worldrenowned doctors Arnold Leonard and Dan Saltzman as well as patients under their care. An upcoming episode will feature James’ song, “What Keeps Her Strong” and his experiences on three hunting trips. Earlier this year, James went on snow goose hunt in North Dakota. Other episodes will feature an archery black bear hunt and white-tail hunt. The 30-minute show is expected to air in early 2012. Rob Evans, the show’s executive producer, has enjoyed working with James. “Anybody that doesn’t like Colton, there’s something wrong with them,” Evans said. “He’s loaded with talent and has a great heart. We’re having fun with him.” James is also involved with the show’s effort to raise money and awareness for the research by the two doctors, who are two years away from an announcement that’s “rather astounding.” “Colton is going to be a part of that, so we’re glad to have him on board,” Evans said. James recently picked up a sponsor with Bowtech Archery. ←

It’s in Downtown Franklin God’s Heart Now carrying God’s Heart® jewelry-bracelets, earrings and necklaces. Come see our wide assortment of bibles, church supplies, greeting cards, VBS supplies, music, videos and more! The Christian Bookstore 757.562.3388, 210 E. 4th Ave (located inside of Drake Tires) www.franklinchristianbooks.com or visit us on Facebook.

Most Comfy Flip Flops! When comfort meets style you’ll get Corky’s® Flip Flops! Our style flops are uniquely designed to take you from beachy to dressy in a slip! Come see our newest collection at Hair Design, 95 Fifth Ave., (757) 562-7072 Your Office Supply Headquarters We carry a wide variety of ink cartridges and printing supplies to choose from. We have printing services, office supplies, office furniture, copies in both black & white and color, invitations and more! Mackans Office Supply 757.562.2959 108 N. Main St. www.mackans.com or visit us on Facebook Kayaks & Canoes Take a trip down our scenic rivers. Blackwater Outfitters offers Kayak and Canoe rentals, sales, and guided tours. Now carrying a variety of fishing tackle and bait. Blackwater Outfitters 757.569.2837, 240 S. Main St. www.blackwateroutfittersva.com Visit us on Facebook! Summer Sale! Come shop our summer sale and receive 25% off select colors and styles! Now carrying kids’ toys – NO BATTERIES REQUIRED! Alphabet Soup 757.569.0110 107 E. 2nd Ave. www.abcsoupva.com. Visit us on Facebook!

40 western tidewater living

its own thing Franklin celebrates its 50th anniversary story by Dale Liesch submitted photography

olt Livesay doesn’t remember a big ripple of change. In fact the day-to-day lives of residents in Franklin changed very little when the city split from Southampton County on Dec. 22, 1961. “The same people lived in the same houses; you didn’t see much difference,” he said. “The political structure changed, but everyday life of the people didn’t change.” Livesay, who was 19 and in college at North Carolina State University, said to his knowledge the separation was based largely on education funding. He said the city wanted better education funding through higher taxes, while the county, which was made up of a higher percentage of large land owners, wanted to keep taxes lower. “The county didn’t want to spend more money on education, and the city did want to spend more,” Livesay said. “Once it was separated, Franklin would have its own school system and collect its own taxes.” The city’s first mayor was dentist Dr. Darden Jones, and Harold Atkinson was the first city manager, said local historian Clyde Parker. Parker, who was 21 at the time, said the city looked different in 1961. It was much more rural, with most businesses in the downtown’s Main Street. Livesay remembers Franklin’s last years as a town. “I walked pretty much everywhere I went, and you

pretty much knew everybody,” he said. High school athletics were a big thing in the 1960s. Livesay called them “unifying activities.” He remembers the teenage club that met in the old armory building on Friday and Saturday nights during the school year. He remembers ping-pong, games and dancing. “It was where a lot of us learned to dance,” Livesay said of the club sponsored by the Franklin Woman’s Club. “I always thought that was a wonderful thing for mothers to do.” Fishing, hunting, water skiing and boating were big in Franklin. “It was a very nice place to grow up,” he said. Livesay, who is a member of the committee in charge of planning a celebration for the city, said they have a banner commemorating the 50th anniversary. It was used for the first time on Mother’s Day and will be used again throughout the year. The year-long celebration will culminate in what committee members are dubbing “the grand event” on Dec. 9. The grand event committee is made up of Gaynelle Riddick, Nancy Parrish and Pam Ellis. The committee plans on selling T-shirts that commemorate the anniversary.

western tidewater living Notables in Franklin’s History

Far left, a sign for Barrett’s Landing stands at the park entrance near the Blackwater River in downtown Franklin; at left, this photo of the train depot visitors center was taken in 2010; below, the boat ramp at Barrett’s Landing juts out into the Blackwater River; bottom right, an old Hunterdale Dairy truck is pictured; bottom left, Vaughan Bank is pictured.

Fall 1971 – Paul D. Camp Community College was founded as a small, rural comprehensive two-year college and built on land donated by Paul D. Camp’s daughters. Currently, PDCCC has campuses in Franklin and Suffolk, as well as the Smithfield Center in Smithfield, Va. and the Regional Workforce Development Center in Franklin. November 1992 – The Ruth Camp Campbell Memorial Branch of the Blackwater Regional Library moves from the Pace House to its current location on College Drive. Miss Lizzie Mae Cutchin, one of the library’s first librarians, began work with the branch in 1931 and served for over 50 years before retiring. September 1999 – In the aftermath of Hurricane Floyd, downtown Franklin was submerged under as much as 12 feet of water as the Blackwater River swelled to a crest at 26.4 feet. The hurricane flooding caused the submersion of 182 businesses and 150 homes located primarily in downtown Franklin. Subsequent floods almost reaching the 23-foot mark happened again in 2006, when a storm distributed a large amount of water throughout the watershed in which Franklin resides. November 2004 – Franklin High School Varsity Football team would win its first state championship over J.I. Burton High School. They would win again in 2008 against Clintwood 28-20. Both wins were under Coach Darren Parker. May 2005 – The Franklin Business Incubator opens in a former buggy factory built in 1907. The building was repurposed and renovated so that the Incubator could help entrepreneurs and small business owners learn how to run and grow a business. October 2009 – International Paper announced it would shut down and close its integrated Kraft pulp and paper mill located in Franklin, Va. on the Blackwater River.

42 western tidewater living

where am I? I

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

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

western tidewater living

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

7/7-9/1—“We Be Jammin” summer concert series Location: Barrett’s Landing at 300 S. Main St. in downtown Franklin. Enjoy live music from local and regional bands and refreshments from 6 to 10 p.m. every Thursday. July-December—Franklin Farmers’ Market Location: 210 S. Main St. next to Franklin Depot/Visitor Center. Hours are 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Saturday. 7/4—Fourth of July Festival Location: Sedley The day will include a Veterans’ Day Celebration at 10 a.m. at Sedley Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, Fourth of July Parade at 11:30 a.m. and car show at noon. Other events include DJ Don taking the main stage beginning at noon, children’s games and a pedal tractor pull. Fireworks will begin at dusk. 7/4—Fourth of July event Location: Robinson Park, Windsor Winds of Grass will play at 6:30 p.m. Fireworks will begin at 9:30. Through 7/11—Rawls Juried Art Exhibition Location: Rawls Museum Arts, 22376 Linden St., Courtland Accepted artists are Catherine Day, Brenda Wright, Katherine Mann, Jessica Sims, Jenn Parnell, Tom Wagner, Jennifer Baugham, Norma Smith Hendrix, Lorraine Walsh, Jill Tiderman, Russ McIntosh, Crystal Whitley, L.M. Smith, Mallory Jarrell, Anna Velkoff Freeman, Mary Lee Settle, Russell Schools Jr., Mary Nash, Katherine Allen, Heather Bryant, Meg Feldman, Noelle Gray, Elizabeth Floyd, Bob Springfield, Peter Geiger, Virginia Derryberry, Joseph DiBella and Ken Szmagaj. 7/23-7/24—10th annual Cheroenhaka Nottoway Indian PowWow Location: Southampton County Fairgrounds, Route 58 and New Market Road, Courtland Experience the traditions, history and culture of the indigenous people of Southampton County at the Cheroenhaka (Nottoway) Indian Tribal Pow Wow and Gathering. Event features Native American drums and music, intertribal dancing, Ethno-historical presentations and demonstrations, children’s activities, storytelling, jewelry, crafts, food vendors and Indian food. A $5 donation is asked, $4 for senior citizens and youth 12 to 6 years old and free for children under 6. Event will be held 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. For information, call 562-7760. 7/27-7/30—North Carolina Watermelon Festival Location: Murfreesboro Daily events include home and garden section, watermelon contest, antiques/collectibles/crafts fair, food, amusements rides, street dances at night and watermelon games. For information, call 252-398-5922. 8/11-8/13—31st Annual Franklin-Southampton County Fair Location: Fairgrounds at Route 58 and New Market Road in Courtland Enjoy great local and special foods, home arts, exhibits, crafts, livestock shows, talent shows and the Queen’s Pageant. For information, call 5623765. 8/29—Paul D. Camp Community College 8th Annual Golf Tournament Location: Cypress Cove Country Club, Franklin For more information, call Patsy Joyner at 569-6791. 9/7—Lions Steak Feast Location: Draper Pond on White Meadow Road Boykins Lions Club will start its annual feed at 4 p.m. and begin serving dinner at 5. Tickets are $25. For information, call 654-6271, 654-6412, 6549776 or 650-8134. 9/10—Heritage Day Festival Location: Southampton Agriculture & Forestry Museum & Heritage Village in Courtland Hundreds of visitors will help celebrate Southampton County’s rich cultural heritage from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Attractions include local arts and crafts, entertainment, food and fun. Admission is $2. For information, call 653-9554 or 653-9028

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46 western tidewater living

common ground

here comes the sun! column and photo by Rex Alphin

ing. n Two 13-year-olds do a simultaneous

cannonball into the deep end. n Jimmy starts wondering what Billie Jean will look like in a swim suit. n Billie Jean wonders what she will look like in a swim suit. n Darden’s Heating and Air orders extra spare parts. n A recently hatched bluebird peers out the little hole to the outside world, steps up and shoves off. n Luther, a hound dog, lies on his side in the shade and snores. n The cork goes under as 9-year-old Jeffrey catches his first fish. A 3-ounce red throat. n A purple martin swoops and catches a

mosquito on the fly. n Six-year-old “Boo” gets sunburned on the back of his neck as he watches ants go in and out their hole. n Vanilla ice cream drips underneath Alicia’s chocolate dip-top as her mom urges “Eat faster!” n Like walrus, the ocean shore populates with fresh, white human skin. n A Newsoms farmer looks at chest high corn, then to the sky. n A 5-foot copperhead stretches his belly across the warm country road, puzzled at the oncoming roar he feels. n Mr. Darden picks up a boxer turtle at woods edge, anticipating the excitement of his 7-year-old grandson. And so unheralded, unseen, unstoppable, like some invisible injection, all that is alive is transformed by the mystical changing of the seasons. For the summer of 2011 has arrived! ←

Find yours today at

208 South Street, Franklin, VA 23851 â&#x20AC;˘ 757-562-6084