20 SENSATIONAL SINGLES
ARE YOU READY TO MEET THEM?
We admit, some jobs in the editorial department at Hampton Roads Magazine can get a little mundane. Picking our first-ever group of Sensational Singles, however-definitely not one of them. In fact, when the nominations started rolling in, we had trouble considering the selection process actual work. We wallpapered one of our office walls with all of the nominee's photos, giggled like schoolchildren at their witty answers to our personality questions and gabbed to our friends about them. Yup, we have a crush ... 20 of them. On the following pages, you'll find our swoon-worthy picks for the most eligible folks in Hampton Roads. For a chance to chat them up amongst cocktails and live music-and bid to win their company on a first date-mark your calendars for our Sensational Singles Party at the Chrysler Museum on Oct. 12 (see page 86 for more info). Whatever you do, don't wait to snag them. Smart, successful and sexy, these singles won't be flying solo for long.
-The editors
AHMED FAREED
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Age: 26
Occupation: Sports Anchor (WAVY-TV10/FOX 43)
City: Virginia Beach
Kids? Zero
Ever been married? No
Length of longest relationship: One year
I spend way too much time ... putting on make-up. Or as I call it, man powder. For TV, okay? It takes two minutes, but for me, that's two minutes too long.
Favorite book? 1987 Detroit Tigers Yearbook
Favorite movie? Would Sister Act instantly disqualify me? Ok, then Groundhog Day.
Reality TV: love it or loathe it? Love it! The news is reality TV, right? Isn't it great when we screw up?
Your favorite thing about Hampton Roads is ... the beach. No question about it. Just walking down to the Oceanfront is an event in itself. Second favorite-the traffic.
What section of the newspaper do you read first? Sports. I'm not at liberty to answer any differently.
One website you visit daily? AhmedFareed.com. You should sign up to be a member right now.
What do you get for being a member? Absolutely nothing. I have no idea how to make web pages.
I spend way too much money on ... guitar picks. They're only like 20 cents, but I swear I lose two a day.
Favorite thing about the opposite sex? Seeing her smile and hearing her laugh. Nothing better.
What's your signature dish? That I make? Yikes. I guess a Tombstone pizza.
My favorite to eat would be chicken. You keep your duck or T-bone ... pass me the 20-piece McNuggets.
What's your signature drink? Red Bull and vodka
I once dumped someone because ... she wouldn't go to a wedding with me. Who passes up a free meal?
In three words or less, describe yourself at age 13: 13 years old
What's hanging on your bedroom walls? Some Arabian artwork. Gotta represent the homeland. Al salaam alaikum (Peace be with you).
The most important thing in life is ... happiness. It drives everything we do. Sharing that happiness is a close second.
Farthest place that you have traveled? Singapore when I was 6. Western Europe when I was 21. Here to Virginia Beach at 26. Those would be the top three.
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would be ... my three closest friends. No doubt.
JESSICA WILBURN
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Age: 28
Occupation: Cardiac Critical Care Nurse
City: Norfolk
Kids? No
Ever been married? Neither to the mob nor my job.
Length of longest relationship: 6 feet 2 inches
I spend way too much time ... fighting off the paparazzi.
Favorite book? Tuesdays With Morrie
Favorite movie? For Love of the Game
Reality TV: love it or loathe it? I love to loathe it.
Tapas: A good meal or a rip off? I never met a sangria I didn't like.
Your favorite thing about Hampton Roads is ... the beach.
Favorite event in Hampton Roads is ... Harborfest.
What section of the newspaper do you read first? The NY Times Travel Section
One website you visit daily? I have to admit, I spend more time with people than computers.
I spend way too much money on ... concert tickets.
Donkey or Elephant? Donkette
Favorite thing about the opposite sex? They kill spiders.
What's your signature dish? I make a killer spinach dip.
What's your signature drink? S.O.S. (Stoli, OJ and Sprite). It saved many a date.
I once dumped someone because ... he crushed beer cans on his forehead.
In three words or less, describe yourself at age 13: Headgear
What's hanging on your bedroom walls? Nothing. I let him get down.
What song is in your head right now? 'Ice Ice Baby.' It's one of those terrible Velcro songs.
What song do you wish was in your head right now? Oh, I wish I were a Hampton Roads Hot Single, cuz that is what I'd truly like to beeeeee. Cuz if I were a Hampton Roads Hot Single ...
The most important thing in life is ... honesty.
Would you date your best friend's ex? No (See previous answer.)
Farthest place that you have traveled? Hawaii
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would be ... Roger Cook, Martha Stewart and Tom Brokaw.
KATHLEEN MANLEY
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Age: 53
Occupation: Author
City: Yorktown
Kids? No kids, but I like them!
Ever been married? Twice. Once for love, the second for lust.
Length of longest relationship: 13 years
I spend way too much time ... 'sweating the small stuff.'
Favorite book? Prince of Tides because I love the author.
Favorite movie? Garbo Talks, along with Woody Allen's Bullets Over Broadway.
Your favorite thing about Hampton Roads is ... that there are meadows, water and the history.
Favorite events in Hampton Roads are ... the celebrations in Yorktown. We have one coming up in October.
What section of the newspaper do you read first? I read the paper from front page to the back in that order. But my favorite is the local section.
I spend way too much money on ... clothes and shoes, but I'm a woman, I can't help myself.
Donkey or Elephant? I have leanings toward both parties. A Republicrat.
Favorite thing about the opposite sex? They are hopelessly fascinated with women.
What's your signature dish? My chicken salad-nutty and crunchy.
What's your signature drink? Champagne, though not necessarily French.
I once dumped someone because ... I have never dumped anyone but became weary of a man that had pictures of fashion models hanging in his apartment.
In three words or less, describe yourself at age 13: Tall, skinny legs
What's hanging on your bedroom walls? Sweet pictures of things in pink.
The most important thing in life is ... to love and be loved, Ba-by!
Would you date your best friend's ex? Dating the best friend's ex is like a copy-written publication. Not until the copyright expires, usually 25 years.
Farthest place that you have traveled? The farthest place is Munich, Germany. Diggin those cuckoo clocks.
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would be ... my father, my mother and my maternal grandfather. They were the 'greatest generation.'
REENA R. TALREJA
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Age: 32
Occupation: Physician (Obstetrician/Gynecologist)
City: Virginia Beach
Kids? No
Ever been married? No
Length of longest relationship: 11 months
I spend way too much time ... exercising.
Favorite book? The fact that you even ask pains me. I love to read. This is like asking a mother which is her favorite child. But if pressed, I would say Letters to a Young Poet by Rainer Maria Rilke.
Favorite movie? Changes often. But favorite classic movie is Fletch.
Reality TV: love it or loathe it? Can't sit still long enough to watch TV.
Tapas: A good meal or a rip off? Better plan is to go out to eat with friends, each order an entrée, and share them around the table. More food for your money, and you still get to taste a variety. Plus, it ensures non-stuffy dining companions who don't mind wandering forks.
Your favorite thing about Hampton Roads ... the fact that I can walk on the beach and watch the sunrise and sunset every day.
What section of the newspaper do you read first? It's a toss-up between the sports section and the entertainment section.
I spend way too much money ... on eating out.
Donkey or Elephant? Donkey, for sure. You know what they say: 'If you are in your 30s and you are a Republican, you are heartless; if you are in your 50s and you are a Democrat, you are a failure.' So I guess I have 18 more good years of kindness left in me.
Favorite thing about the opposite sex? I like that men are emotionally strong and make me feel protected.
What's your signature dish? I make a great maple-apple pork chops with gouda mashed potatoes. My friends call it 'Seduction Pork Chops.'
I once dumped someone because ... he had very bad grammar. (That was a low point, I know.)
In three words or less, describe yourself at age 13: Fat, lovable, naïve
What's hanging on your bedroom walls? A print of a great painting by Diego Velázquez entitled Venus at her Mirror.
What song is in your head right now? 'Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds' by The Beatles
What song do you wish was in your head right now? 'Bubble Toes' by Jack Johnson
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would be ... Deepak, my brother; Paul Farmer, founder of the medical relief organization in Haiti called Partners In Health; and Wayne Brady.
ROD SANTANDER
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Age: 28
Occupation: Mechanical Engineer
City: Virginia Beach
Kids? None
Ever been married? No
Length of longest relationship: Eight years
I spend way too much time ... dreaming.
Favorite book? Do cookbooks count?
Favorite movie? Princess Bride. Inconceivable!
Reality TV: love it or loathe it? Loathe it
Tapas: A good meal or a rip off? A good meal once in a while.
Your favorite thing about Hampton Roads is ... its steady pace.
Favorite event in Hampton Roads is ... Beer Fest.
What section of the newspaper do you read first? The advertisements
One website you visit daily? Myspace.com
I spend way too much money on ... clothes.
Donkey or Elephant? Elephant ... because of their big ears!
Favorite thing about the opposite sex? Eyes
What's your signature dish? Seafood pasta with a sun-dried tomato cream sauce.
What's your signature drink? 7 and 7, or anything cold.
I once dumped someone because ... she's wasn't trustworthy.
In three words or less, describe yourself at age 13: Shy
What's hanging on your bedroom walls? A mirror, a shelf and a coat of paint.
What song is in your head right now? 'Promiscuous' by Nelly Furtado featuring Timbaland
What song do you wish was in your head right now? 'Together Forever' by Shai
The most important thing in life is ... balance.
Would you date your best friend's ex? After knowing what she's done ... never!
Farthest place that you have traveled? Philippine Islands
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would be ... my future wife, my brother and my sister.
KELLE STEWART
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Age: 27
Occupation: Perfumer, Model, Budget Analyst for the City of Norfolk
City: Virginia Beach
Kids? No
Ever been married? No
Length of longest relationship: Three years
I spend way too much time ... working instead of playing golf.
Favorite book? Non-fiction: Zen Golf; Fiction: Animal Farm
Favorite movie? I loved The Lake House in the romantic comedy genre, but Coming to America is the greatest movie of all time.
Reality TV: love it or loathe it? I like America's Next Top Model, Pimp my Ride and Animal Planet. The rest of it I can take or leave.
Your favorite thing about Hampton Roads is ... the sound of the ocean.
Favorite event in Hampton Roads is ... 18 holes at any municipal course.
One website you visit daily? eBay
I spend way too much money on ... eBay.
Favorite thing about the opposite sex? That they are so nice to me. Unless I hit the ball straighter than they do.
What's your signature dish? Something vegetarian. I'm not a veggie anymore, but my first choice is always something vegetarian.
What's your signature drink? Cafe mocha
I once dumped someone because ... he didn't give me a birthday present.
What's hanging on your bedroom walls? 'Peace,' 'Love,' 'Friendship' and 'Good Fortune' in red and black Japanese characters.
What song is in your head right now? 'Deja Vu' by Beyoncé featuring Jay-Z
What song do you wish was in your head right now? 'Kick, Push,' the song about skateboarding by Lupe Fiasco
The most important thing in life is ... my puppy Jasmine. She is my world and my practice daughter.
Would you date your best friend's ex? No
Farthest place that you have traveled? Physically: London, England; Mentally: the LPGA Championship
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would be ... my future husband; my late father, Billy; and Pearl, my fairy godmother.
BOB HORTON
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Age: 60 (The new 40)
Occupation: Developer
City: Virginia Beach
Kids? Three (Grown up and on their own-thank heavens.)
Ever been married? Yes
Length of longest relationship: 32 years (married), three years (as a single)
I spend way too much time ... doing nothing.
Favorite movie? Wall Street
Reality TV: love it or loathe it? Love it
Tapas: A good meal or a rip off? Just right
Your favorite thing about Hampton Roads is ... change of seasons and diversity. Being my home also has an influence.
Favorite event in Hampton Roads is ... anything to do with outside and music.
What section of the newspaper do you read first? I start at page one.
One website you visit daily? 'You've Got Mail' and eBay (I'm a watch freak.)
I spend way too much money on ... gifts for friends and food.
Donkey or Elephant? The big E, but with an open mind.
Favorite thing about the opposite sex? Everything between the head and toes, and especially between the ears!
What's your signature dish? Broiled flounder
What's your signature drink? Scotch and water
I once dumped someone because ... she had a lousy personality and no brains.
In three words or less, describe yourself at age 13: Athletic, dancing machine
What's hanging on your bedroom walls? Wallboard right now and art when it is finished.
What song is in your head right now? 'I Love Beach Music' by Bill Deal and The Rhondels
What song do you wish was in your head right now? Something Caribbean
The most important thing in life is ... family and friends.
Would you date your best friend's ex? Yeah, that would be eventful!
Farthest place that you have traveled? Pakistan
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would be ... my four grandchildren. Oops, one too many!
VANESSA CORIA
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Age: 32
Occupation: News Anchor/Reporter (WVEC-TV13)
City: Virginia Beach
Kids? None
Ever been married? Yep
Length of longest relationship: 10 years
I spend way too much time ... watching TV. I'm addicted to TiVo and always seem to be two weeks behind.
Favorite book? Watership Down by Richard Adams. Those bunnies seem like people to me.
Favorite movie? That's a hard one. I love The Lord of the Rings trilogy, but E.T. makes me cry every time I watch it.
Tapas: A good meal or a rip off? You're talking to a major food lover, and I LOVE tapas because it's all about sharing!
Your favorite thing about Hampton Roads is ... the great restaurants and the beach, of course.
What section of the newspaper do you read first? My guilty pleasure is the Daily Break.
I spend way too much money on ... eating out. I'm trying to hit every single restaurant on HRM's top 50 list!
Favorite thing about the opposite sex? Everything
What's your signature dish? Smashed chicken and mashed potatoes, but I can cook just about anything.
What's your signature drink? Extra dirty martini with extra olives
I once dumped someone because ... hmm, I always get dumped. Go figure!
In three words or less, describe yourself at age 13: Still the same
What's hanging on your bedroom walls? Pictures of my friends and family
What song is in your head right now? 'Hips Don't Lie' by Shakira
What song do you wish was in your head right now? Anything '80s
The most important thing in life is ... family.
Would you date your best friend's ex? No way
Farthest place that you have traveled? Mexico, where I lived for a year studying Spanish.
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would be ... President George W. Bush, Bill Gates and Oprah Winfrey.
DAWN REED
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Age: 35
Occupation: Self-employed (Dawn Reed Marketing & Promotions)
City: Virginia Beach
Kids? No
Ever been married? No
Length of longest relationship: Four years
I spend way too much time ... trying to make things perfect.
Favorite book? the Bible
Favorite movie? When Harry Met Sally
Reality TV: love it or loathe it? Loathe it
Tapas: A good meal or a rip off? I enjoy tapas-a good meal for sure.
Your favorite thing about Hampton Roads is ... the community/economic development occurring all over the region. It's offering a great quality of life in which to live and work.
Favorite event in Hampton Roads is ... the Town Point Virginia Wine Festival.
What section of the newspaper do you read first? During the week, I like to start the day off with a good laugh, so I head for the political cartoons. On Sundays, I go straight for the engagement and wedding section because it's good to know which men to eliminate from the Rolodex.
Donkey or Elephant? Elephant. Go GOP!
What's your signature dish? Rosemary-encrusted pork tenderloin
What's your signature drink? Diet Dr. Pepper-even in the morning. I'm addicted to the stuff.
I once dumped someone because ... he cried way too much. He was a real weeping willow.
In three words or less, describe yourself at age 13: A hipster-doofus
What's hanging on your bedroom walls? Two pretty pictures of an Italian garden
The most important thing in life is ... love.
Farthest place that you have traveled? Tokyo, Japan
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would be ... Matthew McConaughey because he's sexy, handsome and charming; Martha Stewart because of her keen ability to excel in business even in the face of adversity; and Jesus, because he's my number one guy, and I've got a whole bunch of questions that need answering.
WILLIAM "SCOTT" BLACKMON
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Age: 34
Occupation: Mortgage Banker
City: Virginia Beach
Kids? None
Ever been married? No
Length of longest relationship: A year and a half
Favorite book? Wild at Heart: Discovering the Secret of a Man's Soul
Favorite movie? The Quiet Man with John Wayne
Reality TV: love it or loathe it? Loathe it. Reality TV is edited and manipulated the same as any other show.
Tapas: A good meal or a rip off? Expensive hors d'oeuvres. Give me some real food, it doesn't have to be chic.
Your favorite thing about Hampton Roads is ... how active all the people are. I lived in Tennessee, and everyone was so out of shape it was ridiculous.
Favorite event in Hampton Roads is ... concerts at the Virginia Beach Amphitheater.
What section of the newspaper do you read first? Obituaries to make sure I'm not in it. Just kidding. Front page-it includes a little of everything.
One website you visit daily? Wachovia.com to see what unnecessary items I purchased the day before.
I spend way too much money on ... my insatiable appetite, so food and drink.
Donkey or Elephant? Georgia Bulldogs, but I'm conservative.
Favorite thing about the opposite sex? Their unpredictability and the fact that they ARE 'the opposite sex!'
What's your signature dish? Filet mignon stuffed with shrimp and topped with béarnaise sauce.
What's your signature drink? Bourbon and sprite. That's pretty much all I drink alcohol-wise.
In three words or less, describe yourself at age 13: Respectable young man
What's hanging on your bedroom walls? Paint. I'm a little too old for posters.
The most important thing in life is ... friends and family.
Would you date your best friend's ex? Only if it has been a couple of years down the road and there would be no hard feelings.
Farthest place that you have traveled? Trying to figure out a woman's mind ... or Melbourne, Australia.
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would be ... my brother, Lance Armstrong because he has overcome and achieved so much, and Hugh Hefner because I'm certain he wouldn't be alone.
ELISSA GOINS
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Age: 33
Occupation: E-business Specialist
City: Virginia Beach
Kids? None
Ever been married? Yes. The electroshock therapy hasn't quite erased that memory yet.
Length of longest relationship: Six years
I spend way too much time ... at Target. We can't prove the existence of black holes in space, but I believe that this place might be proof of them on Earth.
Favorite book? Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire
Favorite movie? The Goonies
Tapas: A good meal or a rip off? Great meal. As a kid I always dreamed of having appetizers for a whole meal, so my dream came true when I discovered the wonderful world of tapas.
Favorite event in Hampton Roads is ... the North American Sand Soccer Championships. It is the only thing for which I will rearrange my work travel schedule.
What section of the newspaper do you read first? Classifieds. I love to see all the really cool stuff for sale that I can't afford.
One website you visit daily? Theonion.com. It's completely sarcastic and irreverent. I love it.
I spend way too much money on ... shoes. Those heavenly little things have me hopelessly addicted to them. The first time I walked into DSW, I literally almost had a heart attack.
Donkey or Elephant? Giraffes. They have a higher and better view of things.
Favorite thing about the opposite sex? I break things, and they fix things. They also hang things on walls. I totally love that.
What's your signature dish? Eggplant parmesan
What's your signature drink? Something with vodka
In three words or less, describe yourself at age 13: Covered with dirt
What song is in your head right now? Lo-lo-lo-lo Lo-la (Kinks)
What song do you wish was in your head right now? 'Crazy' by Gnarls Barkley
The most important thing in life is ... your family and making sure you surround yourself with quality friends.
Would you date your best friend's ex? How hot is he? Just kidding ... No. It would be too weird.
Farthest place that you have traveled? Stockholm, Sweden
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would be ... Dan Abrams, David Beckham and Will Ferrell.
BAXTER E. SIMMONS JR.
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Age: 32
Occupation: Restaurant Owner (Baxter's Sports Lounge and Sterling's)
City: Norfolk
Kids? Nope, just a dog
Ever been married? No
Length of longest relationship: One year
I spend way too much time ... working with my father.
Favorite book? A Good Walk Spoiled: Days and Nights on the PGA Tour
Favorite movie? Days of Thunder
Reality TV: love it or loathe it? Loathe it
Tapas: A good meal or a rip off? Four items make a good meal.
Your favorite thing about Hampton Roads is ... the way its evolved since I
was a kid.
Favorite event in Hampton Roads is ... wine and beer festivals.
What section of the newspaper do you read first? Sports
One website you visit daily? ESPN
I spend way too much money on ... dates.
Donkey or Elephant? Independent
Favorite thing about the opposite sex? Does there have to be one?
What's your signature dish? Cheese fries
What's your signature drink? Jack and diet
I once dumped someone because ... they didn't sit next to me on the bus in
6th grade.
In three words or less, describe yourself at age 13: Pillsbury Dough Boy
What's hanging on your bedroom walls? Nothing
What song is in your head right now? 'Home' by Michael Buble
What song do you wish was in your head right now? 'Collide' by Howie Day
The most important thing in life is ... my parents and the fact that I get
to see them regularly.
Would you date your best friend's ex? Depends on if I'm bigger than my best
friend.
Farthest place that you have traveled? Hong Kong
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would be
... mom, dad and my wife-if I ever found someone to put up with me.
TARYN BOONE
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Age: 34
Occupation: Sales Manager, Hilton Garden Inn Suffolk
City: Newport News
Kids? No children
Ever been married? Nope
Length of longest relationship: Three years
I spend way too much time ... at work-only because I am single.
Favorite book? Unfair question, I read a book a week.
Favorite movie? Actually, Love Actually
Reality TV: love it or loathe it? Love it
Tapas: A good meal or a rip off? Rip off
Your favorite thing about Hampton Roads is ... the beach, the water.
Favorite event in Hampton Roads is ... anything with live music.
What section of the newspaper do you read first? The front page, even though you can't judge a book by its cover.
One website you visit daily? Msnbc.com (I am a nerd, right?)
I spend way too much money on ... books. I don't own a library card.
Donkey or Elephant? NOT elephant ... sometimes Donkephant or Republicrat.
Favorite thing about the opposite sex? Goofy pick-up lines
What's your signature dish? The plastic one that separates your food. Just kidding. Going out for sushi.
What's your signature drink? Apple martini
I once dumped someone because ... what guy doesn't like sports?!? The one I dumped did not.
In three words or less, describe yourself at age 13: Outgoing, dancing comedian
What's hanging on your bedroom walls? Framed photos of other countries
What song is in your head right now? 'Three Little Birds' by Bob Marley
What song do you wish was in your head right now? 'It's Raining Men'
The most important thing in life is ... loving it-hence loving yourself and family.
Would you date your best friend's ex? NO! Not even if he was super fine!
Farthest place that you have traveled? Jamaica, Mexico, warm places with white sand beaches.
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would be ... Nelson Mandela, Donald Trump and Stevie Wonder.
JACK MARTIN
 |
Age: 36
Occupation: Dentist
City: Norfolk
Kids? None
Ever been married? No
Length of longest relationship: Three and a half years
I spend way too much time ... watching home improvement shows. It's my only vice (that I'll admit to right now).
Favorite book? Curious George ... any of them. I loved reading the books as a kid and still pick them up on rainy days.
Tapas: A good meal or a rip off? Good eats, definitely. You get to try new things and share old favorites, and they serve sangria. What more could you ask for?
Your favorite thing about Hampton Roads is ... the beach. HR has a laid-back Southern atmosphere, the people have good Midwest values and there are all of the perks of a seaside town.
What section of the newspaper do you read first? The local section, to find places to eat and things to do.
One website you visit daily? Yahoo finance. It's about the only thing that 'Big Brother' will let get through on my terminal at work.
I spend way too much money on ... food-eating out or dinner at home. I just love good food.
Donkey or Elephant? Elephant
Favorite thing about the opposite sex? Now this seems like a loaded question. What I love most about women is that they drive you crazy. You always have to be on your toes to keep them happy (and interested).
What's your signature dish? I make a pan-seared pork tenderloin with port wine reduction, spaetzel, grilled asparagus and profiteroles for desert.
What's your signature drink? That I make: 'The Holiday.' It's cream, frangelico and Malibu served in a martini glass with a splash of cinnamon and a cherry. That I order out: Stoli martini-up, dry, with olives-or a Manhattan.
I once dumped someone because ... I was stupid. Need I say more?
In three words or less, describe yourself at age 13: Skinny, awkward, shy
What's hanging on your bedroom walls? Cobwebs ... :-)
The most important thing in life is ... happiness-can you ever have enough?
Farthest place that you have traveled? Venice
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would be ... Cardinal Bernadine (Chicago), Roger Maris and the special woman in my life.
CHRISTINE "CHRIS" WARFEL
 |
Age: Old enough to know better, young enough to laugh about it (60 if you insist).
Occupation: Events Manager (Alzheimer's Association Southeastern Virginia Chapter)
City: Virginia Beach
Kids? One son and 1-year-old twin granddaughters
Ever been married? Yes
Length of longest relationship: 17 years
I spend way too much time ... at Starbucks.
Favorite book? I should be embarrassed to say it, but I really loved The Da Vinci Code. Traveling Mercies by Anne Lamott is also a favorite of mine.
Favorite movie? The Hours and Braveheart
Reality TV: love it or loathe it? HATE it
Tapas: A good meal or a rip off? I've never had tapas.
Your favorite thing about Hampton Roads is ... such a variety of cultural and outdoor activities, and my family and friends live here.
Favorite event in Hampton Roads is ... Virginia Arts Festival and the Rock 'N' Roll 1/2 Marathon.
What section of the newspaper do you read first? Front page
One website you visit daily? Travel-related sites (Expedia, Travelocity, etc.).
I spend way too much money on ... see previous question.
Donkey or Elephant? Leopard
Favorite thing about the opposite sex? Their sense of freedom and adventure, and that spark of the little boy that lives in every man. And hands and buns are big turn-ons.
What's your signature dish? Chocolate chip cookies
What's your signature drink? Riesling
I once dumped someone because ... I couldn't believe that I had ever gone out with him in the first place.
In three words or less, describe yourself at age 13: Gawky, shy, artistic
What's hanging on your bedroom walls? Artwork
What song is in your head right now? 'Fly Me to the Moon'
What song do you wish was in your head right now? 'Joy to the World' (Jeremiah Was a Bullfrog)
The most important thing in life is ... family, friends, love, sense of humor.
Would you date your best friend's ex? No
Farthest place that you have traveled? Greece and Italy
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would be ... Jackie Onassis, Abe Lincoln and my dad.
PAUL SAUNDERS
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Age: 30
Occupation: Music and Marketing (The Fuzz Band)
City: Norfolk
Kids? None
Ever been married? No
Length of longest relationship: Two years
I spend way too much time ... in airports.
Favorite book? Think and Grow Rich
Favorite movie? Beat Street
Reality TV: love it or loathe it? It is OK.
Tapas: A good meal or a rip off? Good late-night snack
Your favorite thing about Hampton Roads is ... the waterfront views.
Favorite event in Hampton Roads is ... Fuzzy Wednesdays.
What section of the newspaper do you read first? Classifieds
One website you visit daily? Crackspace
Donkey or Elephant? Lion
Favorite thing about the opposite sex? A smile that illuminates the room.
What's your signature dish? Baked chicken with real mac and cheese.
What's your signature drink? Coconut mojito
I once dumped someone because ... she took off her shoes and walked barefoot on
the street.
In three words or less, describe yourself at age 13: Focused
What's hanging on your bedroom walls? An oil painting of a lake-view sunset.
What song is in your head right now? 'Highway,' by The Fuzz Band
What song do you wish was in your head right now? Beethoven's Symphony No. 9
The most important thing in life is? Loyalty
Would you date your best friend's ex? No
Farthest place that you have traveled? Dubai
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would
be ... Oprah, P. Diddy and Steve Jobs.
CHRIS CLARK
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Age: 27
Occupation: Senior Market Research Analyst (Ferguson Enterprises, Inc.)
City: Virginia Beach
Kids? No
Ever been married? Not as of yet ... but I did go on vacation to Vegas a few years ago, and the majority of the trip is a bit hazy.
Length of longest relationship: A little more than a year, but it seemed a lot longer.
I spend way too much time ... finding new ways to annoy my roommate and coworkers. It keeps me entertained.
Favorite book? I know This Much is True by Wally Lamb. I also like Oh the Places You Will Go by Dr. Seuss, but that never seems to impress anyone other than me.
Favorite movie? Well, I tell people that my favorite movie is The Green Mile, but it's really National Lampoon's European Vacation.
Your favorite thing about Hampton Roads is ... the people here are awesome, each of the cities has its own unique appeal, and my parents are over 700 miles away, so no surprise visits.
What section of the newspaper do you read first? The comics
One website you visit daily? CNN.com
I spend way too much money on ... CDs
Donkey or Elephant? I'm a Donkephant.
What's your signature dish? I can cook up a mean Hot Pocket and Diet Coke.
What's your signature drink? Gin and tonic
I once dumped someone because ... she said, 'I Know Right?' after every sentence.
In three words or less, describe yourself at age 13: Clueless, gangly mess
What's hanging on your bedroom walls? A few pictures, a couple of shelves and my degrees.
What song is in your head right now? 'My Favorite Mistake' by Sheryl Crowe
What song do you wish was in your head right now? Anything else
The most important thing in life is ... having fun. That's all I want my headstone to say after I'm long gone. Simply put, 'I had a great time.'
Would you date your best friend's ex? Yes ... she's hot.
Farthest place that you have traveled? Probably the West Coast
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would be ... my best friends Gina and Tom and Bill Gates to pick up the tab.
AMANDA REDWINE
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Age: 33
Occupation: CFO
City: Virginia Beach
Kids? One son, age 4
Ever been married? Yup!
Length of longest relationship: 11 years
I spend way too much time ... wishing I were napping.
Favorite book? Charlotte's Web. 'This is a matter of life and death, and you're talking about controlling myself?!' is my favorite quote.
Favorite movie? Star Wars
Reality TV: love it or loathe it? Love it. I've watched every season of Survivor and even hosted a party once where we extinguished Tiki torches as each contestant got voted off.
Tapas: A good meal or a rip off? Good meal. I'm usually on a grazing strategy, so I can avoid commitment with tapas!
Your favorite thing about Hampton Roads is ... the weather, hands down. I'm from Indiana, so I don't miss cold winters and inches of snow.
Favorite event in Hampton Roads is ... fireworks and concerts down at the beach.
What section of the newspaper do you read first? Front page, definitely
One website you visit daily? Yahoo.com
I spend way too much money on ... dining out. I only have a kitchen because it comes with the house!
Donkey or Elephant? It depends on the moon cycle.
Favorite thing about the opposite sex? That they're opposite.
What's your signature dish? Lasagna
What's your signature drink? I'm a cold beer and flip-flops kind of girl.
I once dumped someone because ... he was too nice.
In three words or less, describe yourself at age 13: Geeky, hateful, loud
What's hanging on your bedroom walls? A framed poster and a mask I brought back from Italy.
What song is in your head right now? 'When the Saints Go Marching In.' Somebody in my office has it as their ring tone, and it's making me nuts!
What song do you wish was in your head right now? 'Black Horse and the Cherry Tree'
The most important thing in life is ... choosing to be happy despite your circumstances.
Would you date your best friend's ex? No way
Farthest place that you have traveled? Australia
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would be ... a handyman, a waiter and a nanny.
PAT MCREYNOLDS
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Age: 35
Occupation: News Anchor / Journalist (WTKR-TV3)
vCity: Virginia Beach
Kids? No
Ever been married? No
Length of longest relationship: Three years
I spend way too much time ... wearing make-up. When I was growing up, I never thought I would have a job where I had to apply foundation.
Favorite book? The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran
Favorite movie? Wow... that's tough. Raising Arizona? It's a cult thing, you wouldn't understand.
Reality TV: love it or loathe it? Loathe it! Because the voting public never picks my favorites on American Idol!
I spend way too much money on ... food. I eat out way too much.
Favorite thing about the opposite sex? How women can be absolutely maddening ... and how that makes them even more irresistible.
What's your signature dish? To make? Stuffed artichokes. To eat? Velveeta Shells & Cheese. It's a guilty pleasure
What's your signature drink? Tanqueray and tonic, extra lime
I once dumped someone because ... she never talked. She just stared at me and smiled all of the time. It sounds appealing, but after a few weeks, it just creeps you out.
In three words or less, describe yourself at age 13: Dungeons & Dragons
What's hanging on your bedroom walls? Some flowers in a vase I painted on canvas
What song is in your head right now? 'King Without a Crown' by Matisyahu
What song do you wish was in your head right now? 'I Will follow you Into the Dark' by Death Cab for Cutie. Oh, wait ... now it is!
The most important thing in life is ... family. Anytime I am getting down on myself or in a bad emotional place, a chat with my parents or sisters can break me out of the funk.
Would you date your best friend's ex? No. If he is really my best friend, then I imagine he had a pretty good reason for breaking up with her. Besides, he's probably already told me all of the annoying things about her.
Farthest place that you have traveled? Iraq. I flew in as a journalist with the Army a little more than a year ago. It was an amazing, life-changing experience.
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would be ... Abraham Lincoln for the insight. Jon Stewart for the humor. And finally, my grandfather. The world has less color without him in it.
JESSICA ELLISON
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Age: 43
Occupation: High School Assistant Principal
City: Hampton
Kids? Yup. Two boys.
Ever been married? Yes
Length of longest relationship: 13 years
I spend way too much time ... chasing children in the hallways. I'm the fastest thing on heels!
Favorite book? One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish
Reality TV: love it or loathe it? I have enough reality in my own life.
Tapas: A good meal or a rip off? It's fun and an adventure. You can try new, unusual things without making a meal commitment.
Your favorite thing about Hampton Roads is ... how you can drive into the tunnel in the pouring rain and come out the other side into sunshine.
What section of the newspaper do you read first? Front page. Just nosy I guess.
Donkey or Elephant? Donkephant
Favorite thing about the opposite sex? I've got to pick one thing?
What's your signature dish? Who has time to cook?
What's your signature drink? Martini
I once dumped someone because ... their friend was mean to his girlfriend. Figured if that was okay with him it wouldn't be long before he did it to me.
In three words or less, describe yourself at age 13: Tall, gangly, dorky
What's hanging on your bedroom walls? A mirror. Everything else is down because I'm selling the house, needs to look sparse.
What song is in your head right now? Marvin Gaye, and I'm not telling you the song!
What song do you wish was in your head right now? I'm happy with the one that's there, thank you.
The most important thing in life is ... family and friends, laughter and love
Would you date your best friend's ex? Best friends? No. Acquaintance? Maybe.
If I could spend the day with any three people in the world, they would be ... any of the people I love.
