THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Wednesday, January 18, 1995 TAG: 9501170109
SECTION: VIRGINIA BEACH BEACON PAGE: 03 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Close Up
LENGTH: Medium: 63 lines
The kids in Russell Taylor's family weren't born with silver spoons in their mouths. They were more likely to be chewing on galvanized nails.
Russell, a limb of the large Taylors Do-it Center family tree, is just one of the younger generation to join the family hardware business.
But there's life beyond chain saws and weed killer for Russell. Give him a boat and room to fish, and he's a happy guy.
And then, take him out to his favorite dinner spot - his mom's kitchen.
Full name: Russell Dawson Taylor Jr.
Hometown: Virginia Beach.
What brought you to the Beach? Ann and Dawson Taylor.
Birthdate: Feb. 10, 1958.
Occupation: Vice president - Taylors Do-it Center.
Nickname: Too Tall and Pookey.
Marital status: Single.
Children: Seven great nieces and nephews.
What is your idea of a perfect day off? Waking up early, packing the boat for a day of fun, sun and fishing with friends.
Last smart thing you did: Traded in ol' Black Beauty for a sparkling brand new white truck.
Last dumb thing you did: Volunteered to baby sit for a puppy with fleas for eight days.
Favorite meal: Tracy's homemade meatloaf with mashed potatoes and gravy and a glass of cold milk.
Favorite movies: ``Man Without a Face,'' ``Dances With Wolves'' and ``Last of the Mohicans.''
Favorite song: ``Philadelphia Freedom,'' ``Rise 'n Shine'' and the short people song.
Last book read: ``Stuart Little'' and Miss Manners handbook (I was told I needed to read it).
Hobbies: Sport fishing, bike riding, hiking and eating.
Worst job: Working for a framing crew in Virginia Beach's coldest winter.
If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Committing to a regular exercise program.
Secret vice: Sleeping late.
Favorite restaurant: Ann's kitchen (my mom's house).
Your favorite night on the town: Late afternoon boating with friends, docking for dinner and a moonlight cruise.
Favorite TV shows: CNN Headline News and the Weather Channel (you know, to check the fishing conditions).
Favorite sport: Any type of water sport.
Last vacation: I wish.
Pets: Ruby the Pig and Pink Dog.
Of what achievements are you most proud? Being able to work with my father, two brothers, and sister in family owned hardware business.
What would you like on your epitaph? Believe in yourself and work hard to make your dreams come true. ILLUSTRATION: Staff photo by DAVID B. HOLLINGSWORTH
by CNB