Dreams meet plans.
Cardiology Care Close to Home
Heart disease touches countless lives in our community. At Roane General Hospital, we’re dedicated to ensuring that expert cardiology care is within reach for those who need it most. From prevention and education to advanced diagnostics, treatment, and rehabilitation, our experienced team is here to deliver the exceptional care you deserve—close to home.
Charles H. Moore Memorial Bridge
a Legacy of Courage & Sacrifice
Kim Painter’s journey to honor her great Uncle Charles was fueled by love and a deep sense of gratitude. Today on I-79 near Elkview, the U.S. Army PFC Charles Henry Moore Memorial Bridge honors his courage and sacrifice to illuminate our community and country.
the Elk
surrounding
Hello & Welcome Back!
How can summer already be coming to an end? It’s hard to believe, but it’s time to embrace a new school year filled with excitement and great expectations. ERL is proud to feature the team photos of the 2025-26 Herbert Hoover High School Fall Sports Teams! A heartfelt thank you to Essay Media (Scott and Aubrey Abbott) for sharing these fantastic images with us.
As featured in our Around the Elk, the town of Clendenin is buzzing with energy and pride over the grand opening of the new Save a Lot. It’s been nine years since the Flood of 2016 devastated our beloved town, and this grand opening symbolizes something much greater than a new grocery store. It’s a testament to the resilience of our community and the strength of its wonderful people. I truly believe our town’s motto should be, “You can’t keep a good town down!”
This month, ERL shines a spotlight on two remarkable Elk River families. First is the Hafer family from Elkview, who are celebrating 100 years of dedicated service with Hafer Funeral Home. They are among the most caring and devoted families you’ll ever meet. Looking back at their roots—John Sr. and Zora, John Edward (Ed) Jr. and Mary, Henry and Audrey, and now John Hafer Thaxton and Tina—you can only imagine the countless Elk River families they have comforted through life’s hardest moments.
Our second feature honors the family of Charles H. Moore of Frame. Great-niece Kim Painter Eskew dedicated countless hours to telling her great Uncle Charles’s story. Enlisting at age 21, Uncle Charles served in the army during World War II and tragically lost his life just eight months later. Kim’s heartfelt journey to honor him culminated this March when the WV State Senate proudly dedicated the I-79 Interstate Bridge—locally known as Little Sandy Creek Bridge—in Elkview as the U.S. Army PFC Charles Henry Moore Memorial Bridge. This lasting tribute honors a young man whose courage and sacrifice continue to illuminate our community and country.
There’s no doubt that the Elk River community takes immense pride in its families and its roots. It’s these bonds—woven through love, faith, and compassion—that truly define us. These values lift us up, no matter what challenges we face. I am endlessly grateful to be a daughter, sister, aunt, mother, grandmother, wife, friend, and neighbor of the Elk River. Our roots run deep, and they mean everything to me.
Until next month, stay safe, my friends.
Editor In Chief / Ken Tawney
Cyndi Tawney
Operations Director / Josh Tawney
Creative Director / Printer / The Printing Press Charleston, WV
Layout & Design / Katheryne E. Popp
Little Secret Design Co.
Photographer / Scott Abbott
Scott Abbott Photo
ON THE COVER
A group of talented young people at Clay County High School Career and Technology Education Camp, led by woodworking instructor Allen Hamrick, crafted something truly special this summer: a custom-made chair for Elk River Trail’s beloved Bigfoot sculpture. Photo by Madison Stone, Executive Director of the Elk River Trail Foundation
Elk River Living is published monthly by CJT Publishing, LLC, Elkview, West Virginia 25071. All rights are reserved. All contents are copyrighted by CJT Publishing, LLC; reproduction in whole or part without written permission from CJT Publishing, LLC is epxressly forbidden and punishable by law. Elk River Living is not responsible for unsolicited materials. All opinions expressed within Elk River Living belong to the feature’s author and are not necessarily the opinions of the publishers of CJT Publishing, LLC employees. Elk River Living and CJT Publishing, LLC reserve the right to refuse any idea, material or subject matter. Throughout this issue, trademarked names are used. Rather than denoting a trademark symbol in every occurrence of a trademarked name, Elk River Living uses the names in an editorial fashion, with no infringement. All trademarked names are still fully protected, and anyone who uses them without permission will be prosecuted.
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!
Our ERL photographer, Scott Abbott and guest photographers who care about our communities and help make this magazine possible: Scott Abbott, Aubrie Abbott, J. Craig Allison, Tim Cunningham, Janet Six, Jill Moles Mullins
Aubrie Abbott
Tim Cunningham Scott Abbott
Janet Six Jill Moles Mullins
J. Craig Allison
ABSOLUTE ASPHALT
304. 548.7707
#WV-061163
ADVANTAGE VALLEY
304.352.1165
1045 Bridge Rd, Charleston advantagevalley.com
AFFILIATED FINANCIAL GROUP
304.935.2230
4950 Elk River Rd., S. Elkview
AIS AFFILIATED INSURANCE SOLUTIONS
304.965.6911
4601 Penn., Ave., Charleston
ANR CONSTRUCTION
304.741.0377 | 304.546.6510
Randy Young, Jr. & Andrew Young
BECKY’S PET PARLOR
304.951.9162
Rebecca Briles & Kaitlyn Truman
BILL’S USED CARS
304.548.4727
Rt 119 Elk River Rd., Clendenin
BLANCH’S FAMILY DINER
681.230.2088
9 2nd Ave., Clendenin
BLUE CREEK HEATING & COOLING
304.965.9148
contact Bill Ross or Roy Crist
BOXDROP MATTRESS & FURNITURE OUTLET
304.590.6094
2777 Penn. Ave., Charleston
BRANNON'S AUTO
304.935.2335
4039 Penn. Ave., Charleston
CANTRELL’S FLORIST
304.548.7700
7484 Elk River Rd., Clendenin
CENTRAL WV AGING SERVICES
304.965.9081
Local Charleston Office
CHAMBERS REPAIR & TOWING
24-Hour Towing and Lockout
304.965.5634
648 Shady Ln., Elkview
CHILI’N ON THE ELK
Chili Cook Off Beer/Wine Festival chilinontheelk.com
CLENDENIN BREWING CO.
304.548.9262
2 Main St., Clendenin
CLENDENIN MEMORIAL PARK
304.768.6331 or 304.541.3101
236 North Point Dr., Clendenin
CLENDENIN PHARMACY
304.548.5451
Bill Ore & Linsay Matuszkiewicz
CREDE TRACTOR
304.965.1666
Contact William Crede
DEAN JEFFRIES, STATE FARM
304.965.7024
85 Credes Landing, Elkview
EDENS BODY WORKS, INC.
304.965.5900
102 Neville Rd., Elkview
ELK FAMILY DENTISTRY
304.965.6661
contact Joey Adkins, DDS
ELK RIVER AUTOMOTIVE
304.965.7501
602 Railroad Ave., Elkview
ELK RIVER AUTO SUPPLY
304.965.5312
5082 Elk River Rd., Elkview
ELK RIVER BOUTIQUE
304.549.8778
14 Main St., Clendenin
ELK RIVER
COMMUNITIES MUSEUM
304.965.6596
1078 Main St., 2nd Floor, Elkview
ELKTOBERFEST
The Clendenin Brewing Co. 2 Main St., Clendenin
ELK VALLEY ELECTRIC
Call
304.913.6001
Text 304.913.6002 www.elkvalleyelectric.com
ELK VALLEY PHYSICAL THERAPY
304.965.7979
contact Andi Geary, MPT
E.L. ROBINSON ENGINEERING
304.776.7473
5088 Washington St., W. Charleston elrobinsonengineering.com
FOX COFFEE COMPANY
(inside Elk River Boutique)
304.549.8778
14 Main St., Clendenin
GABBY’S SEWING & MORE
304.935.2360
4506 Penn. Ave, Charleston gabbyssewingwv.com
GINO’S PIZZA & SPAGHETTI HOUSE
304.965.7031
Order online at ginospizza.com
GIOVANNI’S - CLENDENIN
304.548.7002 giovannispizzapower.com
GLO’S BEAUTY BAR
304.553.6603
8 Maywood Ave., W. Clendenin Gloria Treola
GREEN'S OF BIG CHIMNEY
304.965.3313
4509 Penn. Ave., Charleston
HAFER FUNERAL HOME & MYER’S CHAPEL
304.965.3331 | 304.965.3341
haferfuneralhome.net
HARDING'S FAMILY RESTAURANT
304.344.5044
2772 Penn. Ave., Charleston
GIVE OUR SPONSORS THE OPPORTUNITY TO HAVE YOUR
they care a great deal about you and the Elk River community!
HOLSTEIN INSURANCE
304.965.9941
holsteininsuranceagencyinc.com
JIFFY J’S INC.
Portable Restrooms
800.256.8657
KN CONTRACTING
304.965.9088
5146 Elk River Rd., Elkview
KNIGHT VEHICLE LICENSING
304.548.4726
knightinsurance@frontier.com
KNIGHTHORST
877.474.7332
www.knighthorst.com
LITTLE SECRET DESIGN CO.
304.427.6797
www.littlesecretdesign.co
MEADOWBROOK ACRES
NURSING CENTER
304.344.4268
www.meadowbrookacres.net
MITCH’S 24 HR TOWING
304.965.6646
contact Mitch Young
MOUNTAINEER AUCTION
304.548.4056
contact Roger Mullins
NALU’S STYLE STUDIO LLC
304.343.2049
2777 Penn. Ave., Charleston
PADDLERS BAR & GRILL
681.230.2061
12 Maywood Ave., W. Clendenin
PAXTON BUSINESS SERVICES
304.343.5666
4628 Penn. Ave, Charleston
PEGGY WHITE, REALTOR
Old Colony
304.395.0619
POCA VALLEY BANK
304.965.7730 | 1.844.782.2651 pocavalleybank.com
PRESSURE WASH IMPROVEMENTS
Brad Rhodes, Owner
304.859.6867
PUZZLED PISTOLS BOUTIQUE
4636 Penn. Ave., Ste. 2, Charleston www.puzzledpistolsboutique.com
ROANE GENERAL HOSPITAL
304.927.4444
200 Hospital Dr., Spencer
ROGERS HARDWARE
304.965.1077
Bill Rogers
RODNEY LOFTIS & SON
304.342.8200 & on Facebook
95 Casdorph Rd., Charleston
SCOTT’S SERVICE & AUTO REPAIR
681.230.2151
311C Elk River Rd., S. Clendenin
SLEEP INN
304.345.5111
2772 Penn. Ave., Charleston
SMITH'S FURNITURE, APPLIANCE & MATTRESS
304.965.7600
Elk Shopping Plaza, Elkview
SOLID ROCK CONTRACTING
304.444.4288
contact Phil Shaffer
STUMP-MATICS FUNERAL HOME
304.548.6611
www.stumpfuneralhomes.com
TIM HOGANS DESIGN GALLERY @ BIG CHIMNEY
304.965.7111
4774 Chimney Dr., Charleston
THE PRINTING PRESS
304.744.7949
143 Gaylor Ln., Charleston
TUDOR’S BISCUIT WORLD
304.965.7769
1083 Main St., Elkview
WALLY'S SUPERIOR PARTS & SERVICE
304.935.2287
5100 Elk River Rd., N. Elkview
XSPEC POWER
304.746.1139
Contact Emily Canterbury
YAK HOUSE RENTALS
304.941.2229
403 Elk Ave., Clendenin
Reservations: yakhouserentals.com
Z NATION ROOFING
304.358.6017
znationroofing.com
SEPTEMBER LIBRARY EVENTS
CLENDENIN
DATE TIME PROGRAM
SEPT 3 10:30AM
SEPT 3 11AM
SEPT 11 5PM
SEPT 12 10AM
SEPT 17 1PM
SEPT 18 5PM
JUMP INTO STORYTIME PLAYGROUP
TEEN TIME: CRYPTID TRIVIA
CLENDENIN ADVISORY BOARD USED BOOK FUNDRAISER
CLENDENIN BOOK GROUP
STEM NIGHT: LET’S LEARN ABOUT THE OCEAN
Don’t forget about the Clendenin Book Kiosk
DATE TIME PROGRAM
SEPT 10 10:30AM
SEPT 10 11AM
SEPT 11 2:30PM
SEPT 15 6PM
SEPT 16 2PM
SEPT 16 6PM
SEPT 18 2PM
SEPT 18 2:30PM
SEPT 22 5:30PM
SEPT 24 10:30 AM
SEPT 24 11AM
SEPT 22-24 ALL DAY
SEPT 22-27 ALL DAY
SEPT 25-27 ALL DAY
SEPT 29 5:30PM
SEPT 30 6PM
JUMP INTO STORYTIME
STAY ‘N PLAY
FULL STEM AHEAD: THE FIDGET FACTORY
TEEN TIME
ELK VALLEY BOOK GROUP
NO-SEW MOTHMAN PLUSHIE
SENSORY-FRIENDLY STORYTIME
SENSORY PLAYTIME
FULL STEM AHEAD: HIVE & HONEY WITH WVSU EXTENSION
JUMP INTO STORYTIME
STAY ‘N PLAY
CRAFT SWAP DROP-OFF
PLANT SWAP
CRAFT SWAP SHOP
CANINE CAPERS CELEBRATION!
ADULT PLAY GROUP: GAME NIGHT
AGES 0-5
AGES 0-5
TWEENS & TEENS
ALL AGES
ADULTS
ALL AGES
AGES 0-5
AGES 0-5
ALL AGES
TWEENS & TEENS
ADULTS & SENIORS
ALL AGES
AGES 0-5
AGES 0-5
ALL AGES
AGES 0-5
AGES 0-5
ALL AGES
ALL AGES
ALL AGES
ALL AGES
ADULTS & SENIORS
MARRY ME CHICKEN SLOPPY JOES
By Gabi
Strickland
Walker. Gabi is the creator and editor of Walker Mtn. Eats Facebook group, where she shares her delicious recipes which are tried-and-true tested on her husband, Gar, her girls, and her family, church family, and friends.
As the weather changes, it’s a great time to dust off that crock pot and get ready for some easy recipes that simmer all day and are ready to serve when you come home in the evenings! Gabi said, “Dump in the crock pot and let it go!”
Marry Me Chicken Sloppy Joes makes great sandwiches but it would also be great over some pasta or rice, or even some garlic mashed potatoes. Keep this recipe on hand for football nights when you have to dash out of the house and be at practice or a game. Serve with a side salad and voila! Dinner is served!
MARRY ME CHICKEN SLOPPY JOES
From the Kitchen of Gabi Strickland Walker
INGREDIENTS
• 2-3 lbs. boneless chicken breast
• 1t salt
• 1/2t pepper
• 1/2t oregano
• 1/2t thyme
• 1/2t basil
• 1t onion powder
• 1t garlic powder
• 1/4t red pepper flakes
• 2T garlic - minced
• 1/2C sun dried tomatoes - chopped
• 1C chicken broth
• 1C real bacon bits
• 1 (8oz) block of cream cheese
• 1 1/2C shredded mozzarella cheese
• Brioche buns (plus mayo or butter for toasting them)
DIRECTIONS PREP 15-20 MIN • Slow Cook 4-6 Hours
STEP 1 Spray a crockpot with cooking spray and add the chicken. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes.
STEP 2 Add the minced garlic, chopped sun dried tomatoes, and chicken broth. (Be sure to stir the garlic and sun dried tomatoes around. You want the sun dried tomatoes down in the chicken broth so they don’t burn.)
STEP 3 Cook on low for 4-6 hours. Once the chicken is fully cooked, shred the chicken with a fork.
STEP 4 Next add the block of cream cheese, bacon bits, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Keep cooking on low until the cream cheese is melted and stir everything together well.
CHARLES H. MOORE MEMORIAL BRIDGE
Honoring a Legacy of Courage & Sacrifice
Information for this article and photos were generously provided by Kim Painter Eskew
Kim Painter Eskew spent countless hours, often tears streaming down her face, diligently working to tell the powerful story of her Great Uncle, Charles Moore from Frame, WV. Every detail, every memory, was etched with love and reverence as she pieced together his life—his bravery in World War II and his final sacrifice. Charles rests peacefully in the Epinal American Cemetery in France, but today, his legacy is forever honored through the dedication of the U.S. Army PFC Charles Henry Moore Memorial Bridge.
A HERO’S STORY:
In 1942, at just 21 years old, Uncle Charles boldly enlisted in the U.S. Army—leaving behind his wife, Pauline, and the loving Moore family. He sent heartfelt letters, souvenirs, and stories of hope, determined to serve his country. For eight relentless months, he fought not only against enemy forces but to survive. At one point, he fought alongside his brother, Uncle Shirley, but they were later separated—Uncle Shirley returning home safely. That return brought immeasurable gratitude, knowing Uncle Charles had made the ultimate sacrifice.
On September 9, 1944, PFC Charles Henry Moore, a brave combat infantryman, was killed in action in Belgium. The devastating telegram to the Moore family in Frame, WV, announced the heartbreaking news. Charles’s steadfast commitment to freedom—his final goal—was realized in his sacrifice. His belongings, including a wallet, photos, religious articles, and souvenirs, were returned home, a testament to a life dedicated to service. He was awarded the Purple Heart, the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, the WWII Victory Medal, and the Combat Infantryman Badge, among others.
Uncle Charles was just 23 when he was laid to rest at the Epinal American Cemetery in Dinoze, France—a sacred site nestled in the Vosges Mountains, holding the remains of over 5,200 fallen heroes. This eternal resting place honors a man who gave everything for his country and the freedom we cherish today.
REMEMBERING A HERO:
Many family members remember Uncle Charles dearly, including nieces Joan Medley and Billie Jean Painter— some of the few still alive who knew him well. Alongside them, younger generations—children and great-nieces and nephews—look to his memory as a symbol of bravery and sacrifice that will inspire them forever.
Kim’s journey to honor Uncle Charles was fueled by love and a deep sense of gratitude. Thanks to the support of WV Delegate Dean Jeffries, along with Delegates Adam Vance, Erica Moore, and Bill Ridenour, the vision moved forward during the 2025 legislative session. The heartfelt story was shared vividly, especially during the Senate hearing when Delegate Ridenour bravely recounted Uncle Charles’s sacrifice, describing how he was cut down amid fierce resistance in Belgium.
The Senate unanimously approved the bill, and “on this day, March 31, 2025, we [Senate] proudly dedicate the I-79 Interstate Bridge near Elkview, locally known as Little Sandy Creek Bridge 8.48 SB, carrying I-79 over CR 45 and Little Sandy Creek in Kanawha County, as the U.S. Army PFC Charles Henry Moore Memorial Bridge”—a lasting tribute to a young man whose courage and sacrifice continue to illuminate our community and country.
As we unveil this monument of remembrance, we honor the enduring legacy of Charles Moore—a true hero whose story will inspire future generations with the highest ideals of service, sacrifice, and love.
CELEBRATING 100 YEARS
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY JOHN HAFER THAXTON
HOW IT ALL BEGAN
Our story begins with a young man named John Edward Hafer, Sr., who left Wetzel County for the oil fields of Kanawha County in 1912. In 1916, he answered the call of duty by enlisting in the Army, serving honorably until his discharge in 1918. On a train ride home, he crossed paths with Zora Augusta Hudkins from Pleasants County, and a love story began that would shape generations. They married in 1919 and welcomed two sons—John Edward (Ed) Jr. and Henry Beauregard—who carried their father’s spirit of service and dedication.
In 1925, John Sr. attended the Columbus Training School for Embalmers. That same year, with a shared sense of purpose and love, he and Zora—both licensed funeral directors and embalmers—founded Hafer Funeral Home and a local furniture store in Elkview. From humble beginnings, they poured their hearts into caring for families in their time of greatest need, offering comfort during life’s most difficult moments.
THE HAFER BOYS
After serving in the Navy during World War II, both sons, Ed and Henry, followed their father’s path. They studied at the Pittsburgh Institute of Mortuary Science and, in 1950, faithfully took the reins of the family business, with a heartfelt check from John Sr. settling any remaining debts as he passed the torch to the next generation.
Ed and Henry, known in the community as ‘the Hafer boys,’ exemplified dedication that went beyond business. They operated an ambulance service, always ready to serve, always present. Their commitment fostered trust and closeness with the community, turning the funeral home’s garage into a well-known gathering place for teenagers in the area, where many friendships started and memories were made.
But life brought hardship. Henry passed away unexpectedly in 1983, followed by Ed in 1986—both lost to heart attacks. Their wives, Mary J. Hafer and Audrey Hafer Hunt, stepped forward with strength and grace, embodying the resilience and love that define this family and the community they serve.
THE HAFER LEGACY
Today, John Hafer Thaxton, a grandson of Mary and a great nephew of Audrey, is honored to carry this legacy forward. In 2010, John and his wife, Tina R. Thaxton, purchased the funeral home from his grandmother Mary after Audrey passed away at the age of 83 in 2009. Mary continued to work at the funeral home every day, along with her faithful sidekick Shiloh, until she passed in 2017. John proudly stated, “Their enduring presence and tireless dedication have shaped who we are today.”
John and Tina are grateful to own and operate Hafer Funeral Home, dedicated to honoring what his greatgrandparents, John and Zora Hafer, began-- a mission of compassionate service. “I have been around the funeral home business since I was 10 years old, following my grandfather Ed around the funeral home and assisting with services,” John reflects. “I began working at the funeral home full-time after I graduated from high school in 1989.”
Growing up helping his grandfather and great uncle, John learned early what it meant to serve with genuine love—
caring for families as if they were his own, honoring lives with dignity, and offering comfort when it’s needed the most. He shared, “I can feel their presence in every service, inspiring us to do our best every day.”
As John looks back on a century of care, he remembers the sacrifices made by those who came before him. “We think of the family members, friends, and neighbors whose lives have touched ours, inspiring us to uphold their legacy with heartfelt compassion. The guiding values of faith, love, and service continue to shape everything we do.”
This centennial isn’t just about our history—it’s a celebration of enduring love, resilience, and community. John said, “We are forever grateful for the trust placed in us to serve families during their most difficult moments. From all of us at Hafer Funeral Home, thank you for allowing the Hafer family to be part of your lives for a hundred years. We are grateful for the privilege to serve this community – yesterday, today, and tomorrow.”
Jamie Harless Manager
Nick Hunter Funeral Attendant
Nick Fitzwater Funeral Director
Steve Teel Funeral Attendant
John Hafer axton L.I.C/Owner
Tina R. axton Owner
Mary Hafer Founder
Wes Cogar
Sandy Boggess
Nevaeh Young
GETTING PEOPLE OFF THE INTERSTATE
WHAT’S A BUSINESS TO DO?
This month our Elk Journal is sharing an article written by Sasha Strader, the new Business Coach at Advantage Valley, Faster WV. Entrepreneurship News You Can Use! Sasha’s article shares how important it is for businesses to be listed accurately online so they can be readily found. Her last event in Clendenin was teaching businesses about the importance of creating and claiming your listing online. This is one of the lowest cost forms of marketing with the BIGGEST impact.
As a child, I remember sitting in the back of the car and watching for the billboards and interstate attraction signs. Columbus Zoo, 12 mi to Exit 15 • Exit 64 McDonalds, Wendys, Burger King, Cracker Barrel • Visit the Past! Historic Monticello 4 mi to Exit 3.
As my weary father tried to get us to our destination I begged for a stop, enthralled by the promise of fun and treats ahead. “A Dairy Queen!” I’d announce from my seat, pointing over his shoulder at the sign as he sighed deeply and continued on down the road.
Now in the driver’s seat myself, I can relate. Long drives are exhausting and if you’ve got to be somewhere by a specific time you don’t want to stop more than you have to. And heaven forbid the thing you stopped for is closed! Already tired, stiff, and grouchy, the last thing you want is to follow that interstate sign ten minutes off your route and find the doors stubbornly locked.
This frustration has led to a change in how people decide where to stop. Where everyone used to use those handy green interstate signs and hoped for the best, people now have a constantly updated directory in their pocket (or on the dashboard!) Travelers often plan their trips around destinations and then fill in the blanks by searching online for fun things to do or delicious things to eat nearby. They can build themselves a map to be pulled up on their GPS of choice and followed as a customized itinerary, never once glancing at the road signs. And if they want to stop at a less planned place? “Find Coffee Houses Near Me” quickly spoken or typed into
their device will pull up dozens of options complete with how far off the route it will take them.
What’s a business to do?
Well, as the saying goes “If you can’t beat them, join them.” Online listings are free and relatively easy to set up after all. As long as you have a computer or smartphone, you can create and manage a listing to lure travelers off the beaten path.
But there’s more to it than that. Listings can be created on some sites without a business owner even knowing! Those listings are created by people who visited you and wanted to leave a review. The listing created by these customers is often incomplete and can be flat out wrong. And wrong listings cost customers time, but they also cost you reputation. People searching for the business don’t know that you didn’t make that listing. They see the wrong menu, inaccurate hours, or a phone number that doesn’t work and think that the business is too lazy to update information or that they don’t care about their customers.
Creating or claiming your listings is the lowest cost form of marketing with the biggest impact. For just a few minutes of effort, you can pull people off the interstate and into your front door with accurate information while managing your image and sharing with customers both new and old.
FIELD OF DREAMS
ERL’s photographer Scott Abbott (Essay Media) shared this month’s Reader’s Submission. Pictured is a drone shot by Scott, featuring a field full of Elk River football players including the Huskies, the Elk Herd, and the Little Huskies! It was a perfect photo opportunity!!!
Thank you, Scott!
HERBERT HOOVER HUSKIES
As we gear up for an exciting new school year, ERL is proud to introduce the 2025-26 Herbert Hoover Huskies fall sports teams! Get ready to cheer on these talented athletes as they gear up for a season full of teamwork, determination, and school spirit. Photos by Scott Abbott of Essay Media.
Boys Soccer
Girls Soccer | Photo by A.G. Squared Photography
Band
Cross Country
Football
Golf
Volleyball
UPCOMING SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER FESTIVALS & EVENTS
A CELEBRATION OF COMMUNITY, FOOD, MUSIC & FALL FUN
As the summer winds down and a crisp breeze rolls in, it’s time for our community to come alive with a vibrant lineup of festivals that bring us together to celebrate the season. From mouthwatering chili and lively music to colorful parades and family-friendly events, these upcoming festivals in the Elk River area promise memorable moments, good cheer, and the spirit of togetherness. So gather your friends and family—this is the perfect time to enjoy the best our community has to offer and make the most of this beautiful time of year.
Chili’N on the Elk
Chili Cook-Off & Beer/Wine Festival
Saturday, September 6
9AM – 5PM | Clendenin
Beer/Wine Festival | $35 per person
Chili Sampling Tickets | 30 for $20
Kick off September with the irresistible aroma of homemade chili at the Chili’N on the Elk festival. Starting at 9 AM with the Chili Chase Dave Fields memorial 5K Run/Walk, the day is packed with fun — from chili tasting to wine and beer sampling.
Enjoy live music, arts and crafts vendors, a children’s area, and plenty of local flavor. Whether you’re a chili connoisseur or just looking for a fun family day, it’s a celebration you won’t want to miss! For more details, visit www.chilinontheelk.com or Facebook @Chili’N on the Elk Chili Cook-Off & Beer/Wine Festival.
Clay County Golden Delicious Festival
Sept 18-21 | Clay
Grand Parade Saturday
Celebrate all things apple at the Golden Delicious Festival, starting Thursday evening with the Queen’s coronation, opening ceremony and carnival rides. There will be a First Responder Parade at 7 PM and Open Mic Night at 8 PM.
As the weekend unfolds, enjoy performances from bands on Friday and Saturday nights — including the legendary Aaron Tippin on Saturday evening.
A full day of fun includes a car show on Saturday morning, the annual Baking Show and the grand parade in the afternoon. Friday night’s highlight? A tribute to the band Journey with The Journey Show. This festival is a perfect blend of community fun and fall tradition.
The Esquires
Presented by the Town of Clendenin Friday, September 19
6PM–8:30PM | Clendenin
Come join the town of Clendenin for a relaxing evening on Main Street as The Esquires perform on the Doc Harper Stage. Bring a chair, bring a friend, and enjoy the music!
Clendenin Fall Festival
Hosted by the Clendenin Lions Club
Saturday, September 27
9AM – 4PM | Clendenin
Join us on Main Street in Clendenin for the annual Fall Festival, packed with entertainment and activities for all ages.
9AM – Opening Ceremony
9:30AM – The Believers Gospel Group
11AM-Noon – Fashion Show hosted by Elk River Boutique Noon -1PM – Parade
1PM-2PM – Hot Dog Eating Contest/Fundraiser sponsored by Elkview Middle Boys Basketball
Plus, enjoy bounce houses, craft booths, food vendors, door prizes, and plenty of fun for the whole family! If you’re interested in participating, contact Robin at 304548-7700 to secure a booth or be part of the parade.
ELKtoberfest 2025
Presented by Town of Clendenin & Clendenin Brewing Co.
Saturday, October 11
1PM – 8:30PM | Clendenin
Clendenin and Clendenin Brewing Company invite you to celebrate the second annual ELKtoberfest from 1 PM to 8:30 PM. Head to Main Street for lively music, delicious food, and fun competitions — including the return of the Stein Holding Competition!
Kick off the festivities at 2 PM with an exciting lineup of bands: The Carpenter Ants, Golden, Caden Meaks, Logan Truman, and the crowd favorite, Josh Pantry, headlining the event. Don’t forget to warm up for your favorite dancing tradition, the Chicken Dance. This is a true community celebration you won’t want to miss!
SAVE
Prosperity is on the rise in Clendenin—and the latest sign is delicious. On August 27 at 11 a.m., town officials, residents, and guests gathered for the ribbon-cutting of the brand-new Save a Lot Food Store, now open at 8599 Elk River Road South (Route 119) on the former Smith’s Food Fair lot beside Stump-Matics Funeral Home.
For Mayor Kay Summers and the Clendenin Town Council, this day has been years in the making. When the 2016 flood destroyed Smith’s Food Fair, the building sat empty for nearly a decade—a constant reminder of the town’s hardships. But through persistence and partnership, the council secured a new tenant: a larger, upgraded Save a Lot, relocated from outside the city limits.
“This new super Save a Lot checks all the boxes,” said Mayor Summers. “We’re thrilled to have them here to serve our community.”
The store offers expanded selections in every aisle— more fresh produce, a full-service bakery, and a tempting deli featuring their famous fried chicken. With stocked shelves, ready registers, and friendly faces, the only thing missing is you.
While you’re in town, explore everything Clendenin has to offer: the new Elk River Trail’s Clendenin Trailhead, three scenic Elk River Water Trail access points, the popular Doc Harper Stage on Main Street, vibrant festivals, and our charming shops and restaurants. And before you head home, be sure to swing by Save a Lot for that fried chicken—it alone is worth the trip.
FRIDAY NIGHT JAM
Doors open at 5PM | Band starts at 7PM
$5 | Kids 12 & Under FREE
store is open Fri. from 5:30-8:30pm
A 1921 photo of employees at Clendenin Carbide & Carbon Chemicals Corp, commonly known as Clendenin Carbide
HONORING OUR WORKERS
Labor Day celebrates the vital contributions of our workers to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of America. Its roots trace back to post-Civil War efforts advocating for shorter work hours and improved working conditions.
This year, ERL proudly honors our local workforce by highlighting historical photos of Elk River workers, generously shared by Kim Johnson, editor of You Know You’re From Clendenin When. These images serve as a reminder of the hardworking individuals who helped shape our community and our history and we honor these men and their contributions.
Pipeline Construction in the mid-1950s.
Welders at Clendenin Carbide & Carbon Chemicals Corp.
Local oil men. L-R: Hoat Gandee, Jim Sweeney, Chaney Dilworth, Elvin Bird, and others
(1928) John B. Jackson, waiting to deliver a riveted culvert section to a pipeline. John and his brother Paul later established Jackson
HIKING THE ELK RIVER TRAIL NEAR IVYDALE!
By Madison Stone, new Executive Director of the Elk River Trail Foundation
This summer, the Elk River Trail got a fresh dose of creativity and community spirit thanks to a group of talented young people at Clay County High School. During the Career and Technology Education Camp, woodworking instructor Allen Hamrick led students in crafting something truly special: a custom-made chair for the trail’s beloved Bigfoot sculpture. Last year, these same students built the towering 10.5-foot Bigfoot that has been delighting hikers near Ivydale. Over the past year, Bigfoot suffered an unfortunate mishap, losing one of his arms. The students knew they wanted to set things right. Not only did they skillfully rebuild his arm, but they also gave him a brand-new walking stick and then went above and beyond, creating a sturdy, trailside chair fit for a legend.
On July 30, the group installed Bigfoot’s new arm, secured his walking stick, and cemented his chair into place. Now, hikers heading north toward Duck will find a bigger, better, and even more photo-worthy Bigfoot waiting to greet them.
I was able to visit the trail later that same weekend. I can say firsthand that their craftsmanship and dedication shine through. The chair isn’t just a whimsical addition. It’s a testament to what happens when local talent and pride meet the natural beauty of our trails. Landmarks like this give hikers something fun to aim for, spark curiosity, and create memories worth sharing.
If you haven’t been out to see Bigfoot lately, now’s the perfect time to lace up your boots and hit the trail. The Elk River Trail offers not just quirky photo ops, but also a chance to slow down, breathe deep, and be reminded that nature — much like our community — is full of surprises and beauty around every bend.
We would love to see more people exploring the Elk River Trail, which stretches an impressive 73 miles from Sutton to Clendenin. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful walk, a cycling adventure, or a new spot to paddle, there’s something for everyone along the route. For a map of trailheads and points of interest, visit elkrivertrail.org and start planning your own adventure.
MORE ABOUT HERBS: EXPLORING GARLIC & SAGE
By Laura Boggess Shafer. Laura
and her family manage a family farm in the Clendenin area. Keeping Appalachian values and traditions alive, she enjoys sharing her wisdom on gardening, canning, preserving, recipes and more with ERL readers!
This month, I’m diving deeper into the world of homegrown herbs, focusing on two favorites that pack a punch of flavor — garlic and sage. Both herbs have been staples in my garden for years, enriching our meals and adding that special touch to every dish.
GARLIC
When I think of garlic and sage, I immediately picture fall. It’s the season when our gardens come alive with these fragrant herbs. My husband Frank planted our very first elephant garlic bulb back in the late 80s—an unexpected gift from a friend. Over the years, that same bulb kept coming back, thriving in our garden. From that humble start, we’ve built a dedicated garlic bed that continues to grow each season.
Contrary to what many believe, garlic isn’t an herb—it’s a vegetable, a member of the allium family, and typically used as a flavoring rather than a fresh herb. It’s usually planted in the fall (September through November), allowed to grow over winter, then matures in spring and is harvested in summer.
Garlic prefers well-drained soil rich in organic matter.
To plant, break apart garlic bulbs into individual cloves, planting each 2-3 inches deep with the pointed end facing up. Space cloves about 3-4 inches apart, and add a layer of straw or leaves on top to help regulate temperature and suppress weeds. Water consistently, but be careful not to overdo it as the harvest approaches.
In many regions, garlic is ready to harvest by late summer—look for the lower leaves turning yellow as a sign. Carefully loosen the soil around the bulbs with a garden fork, lift them gently, and shake off excess dirt— NO washing as it can cause rot.
Hang or lay the bulbs in a well-ventilated, out-of-sun area to cure for several weeks. Once cured, store in a cool, dark, dry place. I love using our fresh garlic in canning recipes like salsa, dill beans, and spaghetti sauce. It’s amazing how a little garlic can transform these dishes!
SAGE
Sage is a member of the mint family, with woody stems, grayish-green leaves, and charming blue-purple flowers. Its savory, slightly peppery flavor makes it a favorite for poultry, stuffing, and sauces.
To grow sage successfully, choose a spot that gets at least six to eight hours of sun daily. Well-draining, slightly
DON’T KEEP INJURY SECRETS!
Submitted by Andi Geary, MPT, Cert. MDT, ATC at Elk Valley Physical Therapy. Andi is an honor graduate of University of Charleston where she played collegiate softball and volleyball while earning her undergraduate degree in Sports Medicine. She is also an honor graduate of WVU and earned a Master's degree in Physical Therapy in 1998. She is a nationally certified athletic trainer and obtained specialty certification in Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy in 2007. She is a proud HHHS alumnus.
Physical therapists are experts in dealing with injuries, but your PT can’t help if they don’t know about your injury! You might be wondering who would keep an injury secret.
The answer is - lots of people! The first thing that comes to your mind might be an athlete, like a football player, or maybe a baseball pitcher. But athletes aren’t the only ones that keep injury secrets. Performers like dancers keep injury secrets, and so do workers in all types of jobs. Why would anyone want to keep their injury secret instead of getting it treated and letting it heal? Read on…
Stigma: Although there have been big improvements in the culture around sports, performing arts, and worker’s comp, some people still have the old “no pain, no gain” attitude. To some people, reporting an injury is an act of weakness, or a way of letting the team down. There can also be external pressure from coaches, parents, teammates, supervisors, or fans to keep playing or working.
Fear of Loss: Athletes fear coming out of the game. Workers who get hurt on the job fear loss of pay, or loss of their job. Performers who get hurt might fear that their replacement will outshine them on the stage and take their place.
Competitive Advantage: While the first two reasons can apply to athletes, performers, workers and most any other group that might be hiding an injury, this one is limited to athletes. If an opposing team knows a player is injured, and what the injury is, they might be able to take advantage of it. For example, if a football team has a running quarterback that has an ankle injury, it will change how the opposing defense plays. These reasons all make some sense, but they’re also all shortsighted. Finishing a game, dancing tomorrow
night, or working one more shift are never worth your long term health. Hiding a minor injury can turn it into a major one. It’s never weak to report an injury and you’re not letting your teammates or coworkers down.
If you’re not up to your best, you owe it to the people counting on you to let them know. Letting a healthy player, performer, or worker take your place is the right thing to do. If you’re injured, don’t hide it! Let the right people know, then go to the right person for help - your physical therapist!
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oct 2 (Fri)
oct
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nov 6 (Fri) – vs. SPringFieLd – home – 7:00 PM – W, 28-14
nov 13 (Fri) – vs. LAFAyette (VA) – home – 7:00 PM – W, 42-7
BLUE SPRINGS HIGH SCHOOL 2026 Varsity Football Schedule
