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VOLUME 01 | ISSUE 10 | SEP 2019 FREE

ELK RIVER LIVING PVFD Thanks the Community

Around the Elk

From Walker Mountain With Love

September Elk River Hero A Growing Community of Arts

To celebrate their 60th anniversary, Chief David Wagner and the PVFD had a Fireman’s Parade and invited the public to stop by the firehouse for an Open House with hot dogs and cake.

Gabby Strickland Walker shares her amazing Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe, loaded with chocolate chips and her secret ingredient which makes them ooey, gooey, and delicious!

HHHS Seniors paint the lot and the Boy’s Golf Team rack up the Ws, Chandler Pumpkin Farm, Coop’s t-shirts are a hit, two new Elk River businesses, and Clendenin Women’s Club Fall Festival.

This month ERL honors three very special heros: Sheriff Mike Rutherford, his amazing Administrative Assistant Sheila Melton, and Deputy Chief Greg Young.

117th Pinch Reunion

This year was another amazing Pinch Reunion, with a full Saturday of fun, free, family-friendly activities and a community church service on Sunday at Mt. Tabor United Methodist Church.

With help from the Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation and support from the community, each year both RCYBE ballet and WVYSO strings programs continue to grow in Clendenin.

A COMMUNITY COMES TOGETHER FOR A SPECIAL GIFT

ELK RIVER LIVING

110

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KANAWHA COUNTY Elkview: 304-965-7730 Sissonville: 304-984-1997 Clendenin: 304-548-7329

PUTNAM COUNTY Poca: 304-759-1010 Winfield: 304-586-2300

ROANE COUNTY Spencer: 304-927-1492 Walton: 304-577-6611

*Minimum balance of $10,000 to open with Annual Percentage Yield (APY). Must be money not currently on deposit with Poca Valley Bank. Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is accurate as of September 26, 2018. A penalty will be imposed for early withdrawal and fees may reduce earnings. Financial institutions, brokers and public funds are not eligible for this offer. Terms and conditions are subject to change. Member FDIC. 2

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M I C H A E L' S UNIQUE STYLES

Michael Ryan OWNER/STYLIST

4636 PENNSYLVANIA AVE CHARLESTON, WV 25302 michaelsuniquestyles@gmail.com

Hop Into Summer With a Vacation Tune Up At • Full Service Garage

• State Inspections

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ELK RIVER LIVING

TABLE OF CONTENTS 18

117 Years Celebrating Pinch Tradition The Pinch Reunion started in 1902 and continues to be an exciting time for residents to come together and be thankful for their families and their community.

A Community Comes Together for a Special Gift The many tributes to Jake Rollyson continue to show what an outstanding man he was, to his community, his family, and his friends.

Youth Ballet, Strings, and Acting Take the Stage This year in addition to strings and ballet lessons, the Children’s Theatre of Charleston will be holding several acting workshops.

Celebrating the Big 60 and Looking Forward to More Chief David Wagoner: “We thank all of our members, both past and present, for their commitment to service, and the people of our fire district for their continued support.”

Welcome Back to Elk River Living!

Elk River Hero: Kanawha Co. Sheriff’s Office

Our Valued Sponsors

The Elk Reflects

Events In the Valley

This Month’s Reader Submission

Gabby’s Famous Chocolate Chip Cookies

The Elk’s Journal

Hello & Welcome Back! You can feel and smell the changes as fall arrives in September. In the evening you can hear the night bugs clearly signaling fall is near. The days are shorter. Brown leaves are now dotting the green landscape. The air smells crisper and has an early morning and evening chill. Changes are imminent, whether we are talking about the seasons or the seasons of life. Our dad would have turned 88 on September 9. It’s hard for me to imagine him as an elderly man because he died at age 58. He never grew old to me. Our granddaughter, Remi, will be 5 years old on September 11. It’s a good memory to have on a day when our hearts still hurt as we reflect on 9/11. I think of Jake Rollyson and how a community came together to heal and give a wonderful gift in his memory. It’s not the change that matters; it’s how we handle it that defines us. It’s good to be a part of the Elk River community, where, regardless of the changes, our giving and caring hearts triumph over tragedy.

Remember, there’s no place like home...on the Elk River. Cyndi Tawney Founder & Editor 304.546.9243 cyndi@elkriverliving.com

Editor In Chief /

Cyndi Tawney

Creative Director /

Josh Tawney

Operations Director

Kenneth Tawney

Guest Photographer /

Jill Moles Mullins and Joe Hoover

Printer /

The Printing Press Charleston, WV

This magazine depends on our advertising partners! Production, printing and mailing costs are offset by the participation of our valued local businesses. It is how we provide this service at no charge to you. Please take the time to review our Sponsors Page, and if you are in need of a product or service they provide, we ask that you give them a shot at earning your business. And let them know you saw their ad in Elk River Living! On the cover: Kayaks on the Elk River for the Jake Rollyson Memorial Fishing Tournament and Float in Clendenin. Photo Credit: Jill Moles Mullins.

Joe Hoover

Jill Mole Mullins

This monthâ€™s guest photographers:

This monthâ€™s featured guest photographers are Jill Moles Mullins and Joe Hoover. Jill is an awardwinning, fine-arts, landscape photographer and workshop instructor, and Joe is owner of Photography by Joe Hoover in the Elk Valley.

ELK RIVER LIVING

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OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES ALL SEASONS SELF STORAGE 304.965.7988 allseasonsselfstoragewv.com

DEAN JEFFRIES, STATE FARM 304.965.6661 85 Credes Landing, Elkview

GINO’S PIZZA & SPAGHETTI HOUSE 304.965-7031 Order online at ginospizza.com

ALLEN’S LAUNDROMAT 304.548.7100 9 Main St, Clendenin

EDEN BODY WORKS, INC. 102 Neville Rd, Elkview 304.965.5900

GIOVANNI’S - CLENDENIN 304.548.7002 giovannispizzapower.com

BECKY’S PET PARLOR 304.951.9162 Rebecca Briles & Kaitlyn Truman

ELK FAMILY DENTISTRY 304.965.6661 contact Joey Adkins, DDS

HAFER FUNERAL HOME 304.965.3331 / 304.965.3341 haferfuneralhome.net

BILL’S USED CARS Rt 119 Elk River Road 304.548.4727

ELK RIVER AUTOMOTIVE 304.965.7501 contact Gary W. Pauley II

HEADHUNTERS STYLING CO. 304.343.2049 check them out on Facebook

BLUE CREEK HEATING & COOLING 304.965.9148 contact Bill Ross or Roy Crist

ELK RIVER AUTO. SUPPLY 304.965.5312 contact Glenn Pauley

HOLSTEIN INSURANCE 304.965.9941 holsteininsuranceagencyinc.com

BOWEN DENTAL Chas: 304.342.0146 / Clay: 304.587.7495 contact Stacy or Gary Bowen II

ELK RIVER GET-A-WAY 16544 Elk River Rd., Clendenin 304.993.0006/304.941.4296

JEFF’S AUTO & TOWING 304.965.7525 22 Quick Rd, Pinch

CANTRELL’S FLORIST 304.548.7700 7484 Elk River Rd, Clendenin

ELK VALLEY PHYSICAL THERAPY 304.965.7979 contact Andi Geary, MPT

JETT’S AUTO AND TOWING, LLC 681.230.2508 103 Cobb Loop, Clendenin

CHRISTY CONLEY DESTINATION SPECIALIST christina.conley@crusieplanners.com 304.377.0803

ELITE ROOFING 304.989.4792 www.eliteroofingwv.com

JETT’S CONSTRUCTION, LLC 304.565.7053 Newton, WV

ELKVIEW INSURANCE 304.965.7033 www.whiteinsurance.com

JONES AUTO 304.965.6180 jonesautotruckrepair@gmail.com

FAZIO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 304.344.3071 1008 Bullitt St., Charleston, WV 25301

JONES EXCAVATING 304.965.6180 jonesexcavatingofcharleston.com

FINGERS 2 TOES 304.541.6134 contact Jennifer Casto

JULIO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 304.548.4625 12 Main St, Clendenin

CLENDENIN PHARMACY 304.548.5451 contact Bill or Lindsay Ore Matuszkiewicz COOP’S CUSTOM T-SHIRTS & DESIGNS 304.552.1020 contact Andrew Cooper CREDE TRACTOR 304.965.1666 contact William Crede CROWN CATERING 1 Main Street, Clendenin 304.548.6999

GABBY’S SEWING & MORE 304.437.3739 gabbyssewingwv.com

There’s no place like home! 8

ELK RIVER LIVING

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would you like to advertise with Elk River Living? please contact cyndi@elkriverliving.com or 304.546.9243 or visit us at elkriverliving.com KAMINSKI LAW, PLLC 304.344.0444 www.kamlawwv.com

MOSS TREE SERVICE LLC 304.965.8095 www.mosstreeservice.com

KNIGHTHORST 877.474.7332 www.knighthorst.com

MOUNTAINEER AUCTION 304.548.4056 contact Roger Mullins

KNIGHT INSURANCE 304.548.4726 knightinsurance@frontier.com

MT. PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH 304.965.7062 mpbcwv.org

MARA BOGGS ELLIS OLD COLONY REALTORS 304.541.7336/304.344.2581 maraellis.com

MURDOCK’S AUTO REPAIR MURDOCK’S PRE-OWNED AUTOS 304.548.3255 murdockspreownedautosales.com

MASTER CRAFTERS GIFT & PRIMITIVES SHOPPE 304.965.6222 Facebook: Master Crafters Gift & Primitive Shoppe

ONE FOR THE BOOKS 304.552.3956 oneforthebooksllc.com

MATICS FUNERAL HOME 304.548.6611 maticsfuneralhome.com MEADOWBROOK ACRES NURSING CENTER 877.474.7332 www.meadowbrookacres.net MICHAEL’S UNIQUE STYLES 304.965.3605 michaelsuniquestyles@gmail.com MITCH’S 24 HR TOWING 304.965.6646 contact Mitch Young

PAMALA’S GIFTS & TREASURES 304.548.7100 7 Main St. Clendenin POCA VALLEY BANK 304.965.7730 pocavalleybank.com RIVER CITY YOUTH BALLET & WV YOUTH SYMPHONY 304.957.9888 (Symphony) 304.925.3262 (Ballet) RODNEY LOFTIS & SON 95 Casdorph Rd., Charleston 304.342.8200 and on Facebook ROGERS HARDWARE 304.965.1077 Contact Bill Rogers

MOLLOHAN AUTO BODY 304.437.2195 2026 Waters Edge Dr., Elkview

ROLLIN SMOKE 304.437.2643 www.rollinsmokebbqribs.com

MOMMA PAYNE’S DINER 304.543.9930 14 Main St, Clendenin

SCISSORS HAIR SALON 304.965.5904 Contact Connie Barnhouse

SEVENTH BOUTIQUE & BEAUTY BAR 202 7th Ave, South Charleston 304.746.7717 SHAFER’S BARBERSHOP 304.654.0726 Facebook.com/shafersbarbershop SLEEP INN HARDINGS FAMILY RESTAURANT 800.216.0661 & 304.344.5044 sleepinncharlestonwv.com SMITH’S CARPET ONE SMITH’S FURNITURE & APPLIANCE 304.965.7111 & 304.965.7600 Big Chimney & Elkview, WV SOLID ROCK CONTRACTING 304.444.4288 contact Phil Shaffer SOUTH HILLS FAMILY DENTAL CARE 1005 Bridge Road, Charleston 304.344.9392 smileinsouthhills.wix/amazing-smile SPECIAL OCCASIONS 304.965.5434 specialoccasionflowers.com SPENCER’S HARDWARE 304.548.6995 8290 Elk River Rd. N, Clendenin TUDOR’S BISCUIT WORLD 1083 Main Street Elkview Open until 7 PM starting April 1 Xspec POWER 304.746.1139 contact Emily Canterbury YAK HOUSE 304.941.2229 yakhouserentals.com

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sept. happenings 03

EVENTS

We would love to feature what matters to you, so please submit your upcoming events to:

CLENDENIN LIBRARY BOOK GROUP BRING A BAG LUNCH 12:00 noon, adults and seniors “The Blue-Ribbon Jalapeno Society Jubilee” by Carolyn Brown

cyndi@elkriverliving.com

INTO STORYTIME 05, 11, JUMP Elk Valley Library 10:30 AM 25 PLAY GROUP

ELK VALLEY BOOK GROUP Elk Valley Library, 12 Noon

MINUTE TO WIN IT FOR TEENS Clendenin Branch Library, 5:30 PM Age: Teens, Tweens 10-12 yrs.

ELK LIBRARY ADVISORY BOARD ONE DAY BOOK SALE Elk Valley Library 10:00AM-7:00PM

FRIDAY NIGHT JAM Elk River Community Center Featuring: RUFF CUT COUNTRY & Phil Moles Doors Open at 5 PM; Thrift Store 5:30 - 8:00 PM Admission $5.00; Children 12 & under free

ADULT CRAFTERNOON: JEWELRY WORKSHOP Elk Valley Library, 1:30 PM

FAMILY FUN WITH BUGS Clendenin Branch Library All Ages, Family 6:00 PM

TEEN TIME: GLOW PARTY Elk Valley Library, 6:00 PM

BALLET AND STRING CLASSES River City Youth Ballet & WV Youth Symphony REGISTRATION AT CLENDENIN KOONZ GYM 5:00-6:00 PM

AFTER SCHOOL ART Clendenin Branch Library Age Elem. 6-11 yrs; Tweens 10-12 yrs 4:00 PM, Registration begins 9/2

FAMILY: AUTUMN CUPCAKES Elk Valley Library 5:30 PM

FRIDAY NIGHT JAM Elk River Community Center Featuring: SOUTHERN COOKIN’ & Steve Mullins Doors Open at 5 PM; Thrift Store 5:30 - 8:00 PM Admission $5.00; Children 12 & under free

Elk Valley Library 11:00 AM

05 19 05

JUMP INTO STORYTIME Clendenin Branch Library, 11:00 AM Age: Pre-K 3-5 yrs. EXPERIENCE R.M.S. TITANIC Presented by Astral Theatre Collective Clendenin Branch Library All Ages 6:00 PM

FAMILY FUN: PASTA CLAY ART Elk Valley Library 6:00 PM

FRIDAY NIGHT JAM Elk River Community Center Featuring: NO REGRETS & Bill Wymer Doors Open at 5 PM; Thrift Store 5:30 - 8:00 PM Admission $5.00; Children 12 & under free

JAM SESSION CLENDENIN BRANCH LIBRARY Bring your guitar, banjo, fiddle or instrument 1:00-3:00 PM, All Ages

AND NEEDLES 09,23,HOOKS Elk Valley Library 6:00 PM 30 GAME NIGHT 10 TEEN Elk Valley Library 6:00 PM

CLENDENIN LIBRARY PLAYGROUP Elk Valley Library 11:00 AM Babies 0-18 mo., Birth-36 mo., Pre-K 3-5, Toddler 18-36 mo.

FAMILY FUN: BIRDFEEDERS Elk Valley Library 6:00 PM

FRIDAY NIGHT JAM Elk River Community Center Featuring: DIXIE HIGHWAY & Cindy Bird Doors Open at 5 PM; Thrift Store 5:30 - 8:00 PM Admission $5.00; Children 12 & under free

CLENDENIN WOMAN’S CLUB ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL Main Street, Clendenin 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Parade at 1:00 PM

EXPERIENCE R.M.S. TITANIC Presented by Astral Theatre Collective Clendenin Branch Library All Ages 6:00 PM

CHANDLER PUMPKIN FARM GRAND OPENING 94 Dickens Rd., Elkview; 304.989.4011 Admission $6; Ages 2 and under, free 3:00PM and then every Tues., Sat., & Sun. 11AM-7PM

ELK RIVER LIVING

2019 HERBERT HOOVER FOOTBALL SCHEDULE FRIDAY AUG. 30, SCOTT SKYHAWKS, SCOTT HS, 7:30 PM FRIDAY, SEPT. 6, WINFIELD GENERALS, WINFIELD HS, 7:00 PM FRIDAY, SEPT.13, NITRO WILDCATS, HHHS, 7:30 PM FRIDAY, SEPT 20, CLAY COUNTY PANTHERS, HHHS, 7:30 PM FRIDAY, SEPT. 27, SISSONVILLE INDIANS, SISSONVILLE HS, 7:30 PM FRIDAY OCT. 4, CHAPMANVILLE TIGERS, HHHS, 7:30 PM FRIDAY, OCT. 11, WAYNE PIONEERS, WAYNE HS, 7:30 PM FRIDAY, OCT 25, MINGO CENTRAL MINERS, MINGO HS, 7:30 PM FRIDAY, NOV. 1, POCA DOTS, HHHS, 7:30 PM FRIDAY, NOV. 8, LOGAN WILDCATS, HHHS, 7:30 PM

GO HUSKIES!

M MATICS Funeral Home Charles L. “Sonny” Matics, Owner Anthony R. “Tony” Matics, Licensed Dir. 8539 ELK RIVER ROAD NORTH CLENDENIN, WV 25045 maticsfuneralhome@suddenlink.net 304.548.6611

ELK RIVER LIVING

Pumpkins Abound Chandler Pumpkin Farm will have the grand opening of their pumpkin patch on September 28, 2019 at 3 PM. The farm will provide a fun experience for the whole family. They will be participating in the Clendenin Woman’s Club Fall Festival parade at 1 PM on September 28 and will be handing out coupons for discounted admission during their grand opening at 3 PM. Events include: U-pick pumpkin patch (pumpkins are priced by size) Corn pit Obstacle course Giant slides Toy car tracks Magic bubbles Pumpkin Tic Tac Toe Giant Connect 4 Stick horse barrel racing Sack races Rubber ducky races Tricycle zone Apple sling shots Archery And more! Hours of operation will be every Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday from 11 AM - 7 PM in October. Admission (which includes all activities) is $6, with children ages 2 and under free. Chandler Pumpkin Farm is located 5 minutes off the Clendenin Exit at 94 Dickens Road, Elkview, WV. They accommodate large groups of 30 people or more, including school groups, and church groups if they would like to come throughout the week. For more information, see them on Facebook at Chandler’s Pumpkin Farm or call 304.989.4011.

Fall Festival Celebration CLENDENIN WOMAN’S CLUB

A RS

FALL FESTIVAL

CLENDENIN, WV CLENDENIN WOMAN’S CLUB, EST. 1980

2019

Fall is in the air and the 39th Annual Clendenin Woman’s Club Fall Festival will be celebrating on Saturday, September 28, 2019 in Clendenin. Opening ceremonies will begin at 9 AM on Main Street and there will also be arts and crafts and food vendors. The Fall Festival Parade will be held at 1 PM. If anyone needs a parade entry form or vendor information, please contact Robin Fairchild at 304.548.7700 or stop by Cantrell’s Florist at 7484 Elk River Road, N., Clendenin. The festival is an all day event, featuring food, crafts, entertainment, parade, prizes and more. Don’t miss out on a great day of family fun. The GFWC-WV Clendenin Woman’s Club provides a scholarship to HHHS Project Smile and participates in other local activities. They appreciate all contributors and loyal supporters who help them make a difference and encourage everyone to shop the Elk River Communities.

ELK RIVER LIVING

GABBY’S CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES

abby Strickland Walker, creator of Walker Mtn. Eats on Facebook, shares her delicious recipes that her family loves. Gabby says, “I’m not a fancy cook, but I try to feed my family homecooked, YUMMY meals.” This month ERL is happy to feature her amazing Chocolate Chip Cookie recipe, loaded with chocolate chips and her secret ingredient which makes them ooey, gooey, and delicious!

DIRECTIONS

Level: Medium

Here’s What You’ll Need 2 1/4 C All Purpose flour

1 t baking soda 3/4 t salt 1 (3.5 oz) box instant vanilla pudding mix (just dry powder) 1/2 C real butter - softened 1/2 C Crisco (or softened margarine) 1 C light brown sugar - firmly packed

1/2 C granulated sugar 2 eggs

1 t vanilla 12 oz milk chocolate chips 1 C semi-sweet mini chocolate chips Preheat oven to 350º

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Total: 45-50 min Active: 25 min

Combine flour, baking soda, and salt and mix in a bowl and set aside. In a large mixing bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat softened butter and Crisco (or margarine) with both sugars until fluffy. Beat in eggs, vanilla, and dry pudding mix. Add flour mixture and mix until all combined. Stir in chocolate chips. Using a medium cookie scoop (or rounded spoonfuls) drop dough 2” apart onto ungreased baking sheets lined with a SilPat Baking Mat or parchment paper. Bake 10-12 minutes until edges are set and lightly brown (centers will be gooey). Remove from oven and allow to cool 2 minutes on the baking sheet. Transfer cookies to cooling racks or wax paper to finish cooling. Keep in an airtight container Makes about 3-4 dozen

ELK RIVER LIVING

14 MAIN STREET CLENDENIN, WV 25045

304.543.9930

Photo Credits: April Curry, Photos by AC

ELK RIVER LIVING

304.965.9941 4920 ELK RIVER RD S. ELKVIEW AUTO | HOME | BUSINESS | LIFE GARY HOLSTEIN, AGENT | MGR AGENT@HOLSTEININSURANCEAGENCYINC.COM

WWW.HOLSTEININSURANCEAGENCYINC.COM 16

ELK RIVER LIVING

117 YEARS CELEBRATING PINCH TRADITION

Photo courtesy of Joe Hoover

hen the oldest reunion of its kind in the nation has a reunion, they certainly know how to do a great job! This year was another amazing Pinch Reunion, held August 10-11, with a full Saturday of free, fun, family-friendly activities and a community church service at Mt. Tabor United Methodist Church on Sunday.

The festivities started early Saturday morning with the Pinch Reunion Vendors and HHHS SADD Group offering concessions at Craft Hall at St. Andrew Presbyterian. There was also a Pinch Reunion Baking Contest hosted by the Coopers Creek CEOS at St. Andrew Presbyterian with winners announced at the Wigwam during the Mikele Buck Concert. Categories included Pies (Apple, Other Fruit, Cream or Savory), Cookies, Cakes and Cupcakes. The winners were: Sailor Lucas (A Li'l Bit of Patriotism) Best in Show, First Place Cake, Youth Division Winner; Debbie Saunders (Mawmaw's Oatmeal Pecan Delights) First place in Cookie Category; Susan Hooper: (Upside-down Pizza Pie) Queens' Choice and 1st Place in Savory Pie Category (Black Forest Pie) First Place in Cream or Custard Category. Elk River Backpack Blessings hosted a free School Backpack Giveaway for the first 200 kids and everyoneâ€™s favorite, the Pinch Reunion

ELK RIVER LIVING

Parade, kicked off from the New Beginnings Church of the Nazarene.

Beginnings Church of the Nazarene. Saturday

The 2019 Pinch Reunion Queen’s Court included:

Concert Series at the Pinch Reunion Grounds

Kailee Nutter, Queen

featuring Mr. B from Pinch Elementary and

Sarah Lilly, Pinch Reunion Community Queen Cassie Hammes, Ms. Queen

Mikele Buck. The HHHS Archery Team provided concessions. Sunday was a Pinch Reunion Worship Service at Mt. Tabor United Methodist Church. Angela

Melissa Carter, Mrs. Queen

Brown, Director, said, “The Pinch Reunion

After the parade, there was a free petting zoo and science exhibits at the Family STEM Field at St. Andrew Presyterian sponsored by COSI Mobile Science Spots, WV DEP. There was also a Cruise-In for cars, bikes, and trucks at the New

started in 1902 and continues to be an exciting time for the community.” This year was their 117th annual Pinch Reunion.

Photos courtesy of Joe Hoover

Alexa Sekercak, Teen Queen

evening concluded with a Pinch Reunion

for more photos of the Pinch Reunion and the PVFD Anniversary, courtesy of Joe Hoover, visit elkriverliving.com and click on â€˜articlesâ€™ on the main menu!

ELK RIVER HEROES

ELK RIVER LIVING

In each edition of Elk River Living we feature and celebrate a member from our community. If you would like to submit someone you know, please contact Cyndi Tawney at cyndi@elkriverliving.com.

his month ERL would like to honor three very special heroes at the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office: Sheriff Mike Rutherford, his amazing Administrative Assistant Sheila Melton, and Deputy Chief Greg Young. Sheriff Mike Rutherford was first elected as Sheriff of Kanawha County in 2005 where he served four years, ran for re-election, and served another four years. The law does not allow a Sheriff to serve more than two consecutive terms; therefore, he could not run again and chose to serve as Chief Deputy for four years, then ran for Sheriff, and was elected again for a four-year term in 2017. He was at the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office for 26 years and retired as Captain in 2001. Additionally, he served 2 ½ years with the City of St. Albans’ Police Department

Chief Deputy Greg Young

Sheriff Mike Rutherford

and was the Chief of Police for Kanawha County Parks Police Department. He graduated first in his class at WV State Police Basic Academy, is a graduate of F.B.I. National Academy, and has a BA Degree from WV State University. Special training includes 1st Traffic Accident Reconstructionist for the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, Hostage Negotiation, and Law Enforcement Instructor for Criminal Law, Traffic Law, Radar, and Lidar (Laser Speed Enforcement). Sheriff Rutherford likes helping people, investigating crimes, and figuring out how and why crimes and traffic crashes happen. He said, “I have been blessed to be elected by the citizens of Kanawha County to serve as their Sheriff. The employees of the Sheriff’s Office are the most dedicated and hard working people I have ever had the pleasure of working with and it has truly been an honor to be able to work with them and call them my friends.” He and his wife, Debby, reside in St. Albans. Sheila Melton

THE HEARTS BEHIND THE BADGE

ELK RIVER LIVING

She works at the Kanawha County Emergency Ambulance Authority’s Health Clinic. They have two children, Alyson and Joshua, and three grandchildren, Braxton Smith, and twins Mason and Parker Smith.

we will be there to take care of each other when a crisis occurs.” Chief Young said, “During my time here I have seen lots of babies born and have regrettably lost some brothers and sisters along the way. But we always take care of each other and each other’s families when times are not so pleasant.”

Chief Deputy Greg Young moved from Fayetteville to the Elk River in 1990 and has called Big Chimney his home since 1995. He is married to Carrie Young and they have three daughters, Taylor, Stephanie and Mackenzie. He is the Chief Duty of the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office and has over 30 years of service, including 6 years Road Patrol, and 21 years as a detective, with 15 of those years being Chief of Detectives.

The administrative assistant for Sheriff Rutherford is Sheila Melton, who was born and raised on Elkview (Elk River Proud). She came to work as an administrative assistant for Sheriff Rutherford when he was first elected in 2005. At that time, she had worked for four years as Secretary to Kanawha County Circuit Judge, Louis “Duke” Bloom. She previously worked in the Sheriff’s Tax Office, the Kanawha County Assessor’s Office, and four years as Secretary to the Mayor of Charleston, Mayor G. Kemp Melton.

He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from WV State University and has several hundred hours of training in criminal investigations and crime scene investigation. Deputy Young said some of the favorite parts of his job include “being able to bring closure to a family who had a loved one murdered, being able to catch the person who burglarized a family’s house and get their property back or being able to stop a person from victimizing a child.”

Sheila loves working with the public and loves helping people. She said, “This job is exciting and you never know what may be happening new from one moment to the next. Every time you answer the phone, there is a new and different problem.”

Chief Young said he has been part of the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office for 30 years and during that time he has been able to work with some great people. “Working together closely in what can be some of the most dangerous situations allows you to form some tight bonds,” he explained. “We are one family and like any family, you have some ups and downs, but you always know that

She is the daughter of Artie Melton and the late Jack Melton. She has one sister, Diana Davis of Elkview, and a brother Gary Melton who lives in Milwaukee, WI. She graduated from Herbert Hoover in 1973. Sheila loves working with the public and helping with the various problems they face concerning law enforcement. She said, “I could not find a better group of co-workers, including all of the deputies and the wonderful administrative staff.”

CLASSIC STEEL HOT ROD ASSOCIATION Charles Stricker, President 304.543.3825 304.965.2462 souflowers@aol.com 5106 Elk River Rd Elkview

A COMMUNITY COMES TO GETHER FOR A SPECIAL GIFT “I can no longer see you with my eyes, but I will feel you in my heart forever.”

nyone who knew Jason “Jake” Rollyson knew how much he loved his community. He could always be found at Herbert Hoover High School (HHHS 1993 grad) donating his time and talent to support the athletic program. He was a role model and a leader. His wife, Aimee Ore Rollyson, and their family and friends wanted to honor Jake’s memory and continue his legacy as a supporter of HHHS. In memory of Jake who passed away on May 18, 2019, they organized a memorial fishing tournament and river float that was held on Saturday, August 3 with all proceeds donated to the Herbert Hoover Athletic Department.

went to Pat Kee. Also, there was a Kayak Float which started at 10 AM with over 46 kayakers floating down the Elk River. The Jake Rollyson memorial event had a kayak raffle, a 50/50 drawing, and a silent auction with over 18 items. At 4 PM the Mark Miller Band and Dave Corncob McCormick performed live on stage at Yak House Rentals. There were free hot dogs, barbecues and chips. There were also Jake Rollyson Memorial Fishing Tournament and River Float t-shirts and koozies for sale. If anyone would like to still purchase a memorial t-shirt ($15), contact Aimee Ore Rollyson on Facebook.

The fishing tournament began at 7 AM Because of the caring and generous people of with 26 contestants. The biggest bass award Clendenin and surrounding communities, 24

ELK RIVER LIVING

$5000 was donated to the HHHS Athletic Department in Jake’s memory. Aimee said, “We had enormous support from everyone-it was truly a community effort.” She plans to have the memorial event every year and said, “Perhaps next year the event could even provide a scholarship donated in honor of Jake.”

Photo Credit: Jill Moles Mullins

Jake played baseball and was a fullback on the football team at HHHS. He then went on to Glenville State College and continued his football career as a lineman. Jake volunteered with the summer high school

baseball league and he coached his sons, Cody and Brayden, in the Clendenin Little League program. Cody (2014 grad) was on the last HHHS winning state baseball team in 2013, and he sent his championship ring with Jake because he said, “without my dad, I would not have had a ring.” Jake was always their biggest fan, as well as for his daughter, Reese (fourth grade at Bridge-Clendenin Elementary), who plays basketball and softball. Brayden is now an eleventh grader at HHHS and participates in football, wrestling and baseball.

The Rollyson family has been a part of many HHHS memories. Jake’s parents, Jeff Rollyson and Janet Anderson Rollyson were 1974 HHHS graduates along with Jake’s brother, Justin (1995), and his sister, Jamanda (2007). Jamanda is the HHHS assistant softball coach. During the WVSSAC Class AA State Championship, the girls all wore Jake’s name on their wrists and special hair ribbons in his memory and brought home the state title for the third consecutive year. One Facebook post said, “Jamada, this one’s for you.” Also this year, HHHS Football Coach and family friend, Tim Myers, has JAKE stickers on all of the boys’ helmets. The many tributes to Jake continue to show what an outstanding man he was, to his community, his family, and his friends. The family of Jake Rollyson would like to thank everyone for the tremendous support and love that has been extended to them during this difficult time. Aimee said, “Jake loved his community and it is such a comfort to know how much the community loved him right back.” Photographer and family friend, Jill Moles Mullins, took photos of this event, which are featured in this month’s ERL. Photo Credits: Jill Moles Mullins

for more photos of the Jake Rollyson Memorial Fishing Tournament, courtesy of Jill Moles Mullins visit elkriverliving.com and click on ‘articles’ on the main menu!

Photo Credits: Jill Moles Mullins

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95 CASDORPH RD, CHARLESTON 304.342.8200

WEST VIRGINIA'S DEMOLITION EXPERTS 28

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YOUTH BALLET, STRINGS, AND ACTING TAKE THE STAGE IN CLENDENIN

he River City Youth Ballet Ensemble (RCYBE) and the West Virginia Youth Symphony (WVYSO) will once again be holding lessons in ballet and violin to area residents. With help from the Greater Kanawha Valley Foundation and support from the community each year both ballet and strings programs continue to grow in Clendenin. This year in addition to strings and ballet lessons, the Children’s Theatre of Charleston will be holding several acting workshops. Kit Reed, President of the Children’s Theatre says, ‘We are in the process of picking dates and hope to offer one workshop this fall and one in the spring of 2020.” The River City Youth Ballet Ensemble, the Official Youth Ballet of WV will hold classes for dancers age 4-12. Founding Director, Michelle Raider-Simon says she is excited to be able to provide these classes to residents for the 11th year. “Our mission is to provide WV youth with a high-quality dance education while giving our communities access to the live arts. I remember growing up in Clendenin. When I was 7, I began taking ballet classes in Charleston. Either my mother would drive me, or my grandmother or I would take the bus several days a week. By the time I was 14, I ended up at a performing arts school in

Boston. Bringing arts groups together is important to me and so is Clendenin!” Going into their 4th year of classes in Clendenin, the West Virginia Youth Symphony Orchestra, the Official Youth Orchestra of WV, will offer weekly strings classes for two groups of string players. “Last year was a huge success. I enjoyed every minute that I got to work with students from the area, and I’m excited about getting more people into the program,” says Ian Jessee, conductor for the West Virginia Youth Symphony’s Youth Strings ensemble. Beginner’s strings classes will be held on Tuesday evenings from 4:30-5:30 pm for first-year students and from 5:30-6:30 pm for second-year students. A possible third class may be added. Ballet classes will be held on Wednesday evenings for students ages 4-12. Classes will start on October 15th and 16th and will run through May. Registration will be held on Wednesday, September 25th from 5:00-6:00 pm in Koontz Gym at 1107 Koontz Ave. For more information or to sign up, please contact RCYBE (304)-925-3262 for ballet lessons, (rcybe@aol.com) or the WVYSO (304)-957-9888 for string lessons (wvyouthsymphony@gmail.com).

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Shop Local! Coop’s Customer T-Shirts and Designs Are you looking for customized t-shirts, apparel, banners, car magnets, saddle signs and more? Check out Coop’s Custom T-Shirts and Designs. They were one of the proud vendor booths at the Clendenin Homecoming Festival 2019 and recently, they did South Charleston Summerfest shirts and tie-dyed shirts.

Coop’s Custom T-Shirts and Designs is locally owned and operated and they offer competitive prices. Shop local and give them an opportunity to take care of your next event. Call Andrew Cooper at 304.552.1020 or email him at thegraniteguycooper@yahoo.com.

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Hafer

Myers Chapel

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ELK REFLECTS

CLENDENIN WATER WORKS This month’s Elk Reflects was submitted by Earl Fidley from Clendenin. He has the Elk River Muskrat page on Facebook. Feel free to check out his Facebook page for more Elk River history and memories. The Clendenin Water Plant is a special memory in Clendenin. It was once an old swimming hole and a lot of churches used it for baptizing as well. Earl submitted these pictures of the old water works and took some recent photos to show what it looks like now. Earl said, “The building sits where the water plant used to sit. The only thing left is the intake in the river. The rest is dock area.”

ERL would also like to feature any of your Elk River memories as well. Go to elkriverliving.com and select Reader’s Submission, Elk’s Journal, to submit your story.

ELK RIVER LIVING

Surpassing Expectations When we were looking for a printer for our new magazine, Elk River Living, we did a quality and price comparison. The Printing Press not only met, but surpassed our expectations. The added bonus is working with Sandy Underwood and her staff is like working with good friends. They are always there to help us with whatever we need. When people in the community see we use The Printing Press, they immediately reply â€œSandy Underwood? We love working her her.â€? No job is too large or small, and every customer receives excellent attention. Cyndi Tawney Founder and Editor Elk River Living Magazine

143 Gaylor Lane Charleston, WV 25312

Press

304.744.7949

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Cardinal Roasters Bakery & Cafe 304.415.6898

Sweet Dreams Do Come True Rick and Anita Owens of Clendenin are the proud, new owners of the Cardinal Roasters Bakery and Cafe (formerly Savor the Flavor). Rick has dreamed of having his own bakery and coffee shop for many years and now they are excited to be a part of the Clendenin business community. They are offering quality baked goods, breakfast sandwiches, and lunch items. They also have sugar free and keto options and soon, they will be adding freshly roasted coffee and coffee drinks. For the weekend kayakers, Rick has a new River To-Go Pack which includes a pepperoni roll, cookie and a drink for $5. They are located at 7840 Elk River Road, N. and you can call them at 304.415.6898. Follow them on their new Cardinal Roasters Bakery & Cafe Facebook page for daily specials and updates - but warning - when you click on Facebook and see their delicious baked goods, you will want to have one! From pineapple upside-down cake, peach cobbler, cupcakes, peanut butter pie, coconut cream pie, graham cracker pie, Mississippi Mud pies and more...itâ€™s hard to choose just one! Their hours of operation are Thursday and Friday 6 AM to 6 PM Saturday 8 AM to 1 PM Expanded days to follow soon!

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Swinging for the Victories The HHHS Boys Golf Team is making quite the presence this fall! Four freshmen boys have joined the upperclassmen on the HHHS team and so far the team is 10-1-1. Members include: Seniors: Grant Bonner and Andrew Justice; Junior: Dustin Stuart; Sophomore: Bryson Beaver, and Freshmen: Sawyer Osbourn, Max Bowen, Sam Phillips, Jonah Bennett, and Coach James E. Gray

September Huskies Golf Schedule 2019 Sept 5, Roane County Tournament, Roane County, 4 PM Sept 9, So. Charleston & Chapmanville, Little Creek, 4PM Sept 16 GW and Scott, Big Bend, 4 PM Sept 18 Kanawha Co Championship, Big Bend, 4 PM Sept 19, Roane County Tournament, Roane County, 4 PM Sept 23, St. Albans & Sissonville, Big Bend, 4 PM Sept 26 Capital & Catholic, Little Creek, 4 PM Sept 30 Regional Tournament, Stonewall Resort 4 PM Oct 7-9 WVSSAC State Tournament, Oglebay, Wheeling

HHHS Senior Parking Space Designs The parking lot at Herbert Hoover High School (HHHS) has never looked as good as it does now thanks to a HHHS Project Graduation Class of 2020 fundraiser. Seniors had the opportunity to design and paint their own parking spaces.There were 36 spots available on a first-come, first served basis for $25. This is the first time in HHHS history where students have been allowed to design and paint their own parking spot. Principal Mike Kelly stated that a requirement was at the end of the school year, each senior has to paint over their spot so that it can be used by an upcoming senior the following school year. The designs had to be pre-approved and completed within a three-week window. All paint had to be a parking lot paint, which is a latex, water-based product. Each evening, the parking lot was full of HHHS students, some painting, some visiting, some cheering on the painters. Suzanne Summers, a member of the HHHS Project Graduation 2020 Committee, said, â€œThe event was actually a great, back-to-school, spirit-building event as well as a successful fundraiser. Even spectators came with lawn chairs and watched the designs unfold on the pavement.â€?

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CELEBRATING THE BIG 60 AND LOOKING FORWARD TO MORE!

ince 1959, Pinch Volunteer Fire Department (PVFD) has been proudly serving the lower Elk River communities. To celebrate their 60th anniversary, Chief David Wagner and the PVFD invited the public to stop by the firehouse for an Open House and enjoy hot dogs, cake, and punch on Saturday August 10.

The PVFD kicked off its 60th anniversary celebration with the Firemanâ€™s Parade starting at 3 PM at the fire station in Pinch. Line up and judging began at 1 PM across from the station at 231 N. Pinch Road with participating volunteer fire departments (VFD) from around the area. After the parade, Chief David Wagoner and Bill Allen, Retired Chief, spoke and shared several stories with attendees and then trophies were awarded to the following volunteer fire departments:

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ELK RIVER LIVING

BEST APPEARING ENGINE: PRATT VFD BEST APPEARING TANKER: GLASGOW VFD BEST APPEARING UTILITY TRUCK: BIG OTTER VFD BEST APPEARING AMBULANCE: KANAWHA COUNTY EMERGENCY AMBULANCE AUTHORITY BEST APPEARING RESCUE: LOUDENDALE VFD FURTHEST DISTANCE TRAVELED: SMITHERS VFD OLDEST IN SERVICE APPEARING ENGINE: RAND VFD Sponsors for the event included Jones Auto and Truck Repair, Hafer Funeral Home, Drive Line Service, and BELFOR Property Restoration. Local dignitaries included WV Supreme Court Justices Tim Armstead and John Hutchinson; Delegates Dean Jeffries and Eric Nelson; Kanawha County Manager Jennifer Herrald; Deputy Director of the Kanawha County Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, Mike Oakley; Director of the Kanawha County Department of Homeland Security, C.W. Sigman, and the WV Division of Forestry.

Photo Credits: Joe Hoover

The PVFD would like to thank everyone that joined them in celebrating their 60th anniversary event. It was also a special honor to have three generations of Ed Mace’s family at the event; Ed was the first fire chief of the PVFD. Chief David Wagoner said, “We thank all of our members, both past and present, for their commitment to service, and the people of our fire district for their continued support. We could have not made it this far without a lot of both. The PVFD will continue to grow with our communities. The future is definitely bright!”

ELK RIVER LIVING

There’s a New Barber in Town! Everyone is talking about the new business located on Route 114 at the end of the Big Chimney bridge! It’s Big V’s Barber Shop. Virgil Smith (Aka the V in Big V’s), owner, is excited to be part of the Elk River community. The shop specializes in men’s haircuts, both modern and old school, face and head shaves, and customized hair designs. Virgil said he includes a free ear and neck shave with every haircut. From flat tops, fades, and designs, to traditional styles, Big V’s is known as a ‘traditional barber on the cutting edge of style’. Virgil said, “We offer $10 haircuts to all military, first responders, and law enforcement personnel. Also he said, “We offer $8 haircuts to all seniors 60+”. Big V’s Traditional Barbershop is also located and very popular in Ripley with Virgil’s son, Matt Smith, as the barber. Virgil has plans to update the Big V’s Barber Shop/Big Chimney with custom woodwork, decor and lighting. Stop by Big V’s at 3857 Indian Creek Road, Elkview. They accept all credit and debit cards. Hours of operation are: Closed Sunday, Monday, and Thursday Tuesday 9 AM - 6 PM Wednesday 11AM - 7 PM Friday 9 AM - 6 PM Saturday 9 AM - 2 PM

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READERâ€™S SUBMISSION Gregg Oxley is a Mixed Media and installation artist from Charleston, WV. He uses found objects, antiquated papers, forgotten photographs, handwriting samples and other ephemera to create work that inspires a nostalgic tone that sometimes plays on modern themes. Many of his favorite and recent pieces pair these examples with heavy impasto-like paint, thick mediums and use of other non-traditional agents such as ash and motor oil in the work to create a feel of age, rust or dirt. His work can be found in galleries around the region, in private collections across the United States, and abroad. You can see more examples of his work in progress by following him on social media. for more information on Gregg Oxleyâ€™s work and purchase information, please visit his website at greggoxley.com

If you would like to submit a photo, work of art, short story, poem, knitwork - whatever inspires you - please reach out to us at elkriverliving.com or contact cyndi@elkriverliving.com

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ELK RIVER LIVING

ELK’S JOURNAL WHAT LIES IN THE HILLS BY STEVE KITTNER Excerpt from What Lies in the Hills (A Josh Baker and Eddie Debord series Book 2)

This month ERL would like to continue showcasing Steve Kittner’s exciting mystery series. We introduced book one, River Rocks, in the July issue. This month we would like to introduce everyone to book two, What Lies in the Hills. Steve says: If you liked “River Rocks”, I think you will love “What Lies in the Hills”. It has many locations and settings all of you will be familiar with and grew up around.

“Gentleman…you are right about many of the things that you have said. We did have a deal. We did collect one hundred thousand dollars of retainer cash. We did run out of fuel due to weather diversions in the Midwest, and we did crash. We crashed hard onto the top of a mountain about three miles away in dense forest. My Captain was killed and I had injuries that left me crawling out of the woods. I had no idea what was in the cargo hold because I had not yet been told. I took ten thousand cash with me and left that airplane, its contents and my previous life behind me. I have no idea what could have happened to the cargo and from what these good boys have told me, it was not on board when they found the plane. The only thing that was left was a broken crate and the remains of Stanley Bradford. That’s it. And that’s the truth.” Josh was impressed with this half-truth but remained silent for round one of negotiations. Mikhail looked at McConnell, expressionless. No one could tell if he had bought the story or not. With his hands behind his back he walked over to McConnell and looked at him. He then side-stepped over to Josh Baker. Mikhail reached down and grabbed Baker by his bound hands and pulled him up. He nodded to the punisher and held up two fingers. Fear filled Josh’s eyes as well as Eddie’s and Brad’s. McConnell pleaded, “No, No…please no!” The punisher took Josh through a door and into the old dank showroom that used to bustle with homeowners doing fix-ups to their homes up and down the river. Today it would be an execution chamber because the Russians didn’t play. They would waste no more time in getting their precious Element 115.” STEVE KITTNER BOOKS are all available on Amazon.com. They are available in Digital EBooks Kindle format and paperback print version.

Steve Kittner is a 1980 HHHS graduate. He is the son of Betty and Charles “Bud” Kittner of Elkview. Steve and his family reside in Davenport, FL. He is a published author of three exciting books that are available on amazon. com. His second book, What Lies in the Hills, also features childhood memories on the Elk River.

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Good news. Rates just got lower. Dean Jeffries, Agent 85 Credes Landing Elkview, WV 25071 Bus: 304-965-7024 www.deanjeffries.net

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