Elk River Living | Volume 07 | Issue 10

Page 1


Haunted West Virginia

Do you dare to walk where spirits linger? Explore the WV Paranormal Trail for an adventure that blends ghost stories, folklore, and spine-chilling fun! p. 20

Faith & Community Traditions

Two local congregations celebrate milestone events together with their church families and neighbors.

Pumpkin Custard Casserole, by Gabi Walker
Pickin', Carvin', Lovin' Pumpkins
God's Pool in Particle Park, by Daniel Boyd

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.

Hello & Welcome Back!

Fall has arrived, and with it comes crisp air, colorful leaves, and a season full of community, traditions, and just a touch of mystery. This month’s issue is packed with all the things that make autumn on the Elk River so special.

Nothing says October quite like the West Virginia Paranormal Trail—21 spooky, legendary sites across the state waiting to be explored. With four right here in the Elk River community, you don’t have to travel far to begin your journey through history, mystery, and the unexplained. Fall also means homecomings and heritage, and we’re proud to feature two local churches marking milestone celebrations. Jordan Light Baptist Church just wrapped up its 30th annual “Old Fashioned Day” in September, complete with jars of homemade apple butter for everyone. Clendenin Advent Christian Church is preparing for its 100th anniversary celebration on October 7—a centennial gathering of worship, fellowship, and gratitude.

And of course, it wouldn’t be fall without pumpkin and spice! This month, Gabi Strickland Walker of Walker Mtn. Eats shares her mouthwatering Pumpkin Custard Casserole recipe, made with cinnamon roll crust and a crunchy pecan topping.

Speaking of pumpkins, before you head out to the patch, check out the Elk’s Garden and see Laura Boggess Shafer’s tips for picking the perfect pumpkin!

So, grab a cup of coffee, snuggle up with a blanket, and enjoy this month’s ERL. We’re here to keep you connected to all the good things happening on the Elk River.

Until next time—stay cozy, stay safe, and remember: you are loved.

Creative Director /

Editor In Chief / Ken Tawney

Cyndi Tawney

Operations Director / Josh Tawney

Printer / The Printing Press

Charleston, WV

Layout & Design / Katheryne E. Popp

Little Secret Design Co.

Photographer / Scott Abbott

Scott Abbott Photo

ON

THE COVER

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

Photo provided by WV Department of Tourism, as part of their WV Paranormal Trail event!
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

BROWNING LOGGING, LLC

304.373.6476

139 Broomfield Lane, Elkview

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

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. & The Town of Clendenin

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

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

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

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

YEAGER DESIGN & INTERIORS

304.760.8914

168 Great Teays Blvd., Scott Depot

Z NATION ROOFING

304.358.6017

znationroofing.com

DATE

OCT 1 10:30AM

OCT 2 5PM

OCT 9 5PM

OCT 15 1PM

OCT 16 5PM

OCT 23 5PM

OCT 25 CLOSED

OCTOBER CLENDENIN

OCT 1 10:30AM

OCT 1 11AM

OCT 6 5:30PM

OCT 9 2:30PM

OCT 8 10:30AM

OCT 8 11AM

OCT 13 1PM

OCT 13 5PM

OCT 16 2PM

OCT 16 2:30PM

OCT 20 2PM

OCT 20 5:30PM

OCT 22 10:30AM

OCT 22 11AM

OCT 23 6PM

OCT 25 CLOSED

OCT 27 6PM

OCT 28 6PM

OCT 29 10:30AM

STORYTIME

JACK O LANTERN CRAFT*

NATURE AT NIGHT

CLENDENIN BOOK GROUP

FAMILY FUN: CREEPY, CRAWLY BUGS!

HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL

WV BOOK FESTIVAL

AGES 0-5

ADULTS & TEENS

FAMILIES

ADULTS

ALL AGES

ALL AGES

ALL AGES

JUMP INTO STORYTIME

STAY ‘N PLAY

PAINT PARTY: MUMMY DEAREST*

CREATORS’ CORNER: BOO & GLUE CRAFTS

JUMP INTO STORYTIME

STAY ‘N PLAY

TRICKED OUT TATERS

TRICKED OUT TATERS

SENSORY-FRIENDLY STORYTIME

SENSORY-FRIENDLY PLAYTIME

ELK VALLEY BOOK GROUP

HALLOWEEN MINUTE CHALLENGES

JUMP INTO STORYTIME

STAY ‘N PLAY

FAMILY PHOTO/RECIPE CARD KEEPSAKE CRAFT

WV BOOK FESTIVAL

TEEN TIME

ADULT PLAYGROUP

TINY TALES & TREATS

AGES 0-5

AGES 0-5

FAMILIES

FAMILIES

AGES 0-5

AGES 0-5

FAMILIES

FAMILIES

AGES 0-5

AGES 0-5

ADULTS

FAMILIES

AGES 0-5

AGES 0-5

ADULTS

ALL AGES

TEENS

ADULTS

ALL AGES

*Registration Required

PUMPKIN CUSTARD CASSEROLE

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.

Hi all you pumpkin obsessed fans! Here’s one for you to whip up this season. It’s an incredibly easy recipe that no one believes can be this easy to make! Some people prefer it cold while others say it is awesome warm with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream. The secret: refrigerated cinnamon rolls for the crust and an awesome crunchy pecan topping! This would also make a great brunch dessert.

PUMPKIN CUSTARD CASSEROLE

From the Kitchen of Gabi Strickland Walker

INGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS

CRUST:

• 2 - 12oz. can refrigerated Cinnamon Rolls with Icing PUMPKIN CUSTARD:

• 1 (15 oz.) can pumpkin puree

• 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk

• 2 large eggs - slightly beaten

• ½ C light brown sugar

• ¼ t salt

• 1 t vanilla

• 1 t pumpkin pie spice

PECAN STREUSEL TOPPING:

• ½ C + 1 T light brown sugar

• ½ C + 1 T all purpose flour

• 4T butter - melted

• ½ C pecans-chopped (reserve a few pecan halves for garnish on top)

STEP 1 Preheat the oven to 350. Grease 9x13 baking dish with non-stick spray.

STEP 2 Topping: in a bowl stir together the flour, sugar and pecans. Then, add melted butter and stir with the fork until all evenly moistened and create pea size crumbs. Set in the fridge until ready to use.

STEP 3 Custard Filling: In a bowl combine all filling ingredients and whisk well until smooth and evenly combined, set aside.

STEP 4 Crust: Open the tubes of refrigerated cinnamon rolls and set aside the icing containers to use later. Separate the rolls on a cutting board, lightly dusted with flour. Cut each roll into bite sized pieces (about 4-6 per roll). Arrange the pieces in a single layer to cover the bottom of the greased 9x13 baking dish.

STEP 5 Pour the prepared custard over the cinnamon roll layer. Sprinkle half of the streusel on top and reserve the remaining streusel mixture for later.

STEP 6 Bake for 25-30 minutes, until it rises and forms a slightly firmed layer on top. Remove from the oven, sprinkle remaining streusel and arrange a few pecan halves on top for garnish. Bake for 10-15 minutes more, until the knife inserted in the center comes out wet but clean.

Do not over bake - total baking should be about 40-45 minutes. Cool for about 20 minutes and then drizzle top with the icing from the cinnamon rolls.

HOMECOMINGS & HERITAGE A SOUTHERN TRADITION

Church homecomings and annual celebrations have always been at the heart of southern tradition—moments that bring people together in fellowship, honor shared history, and strengthen community pride. In this issue, ERL highlights two local congregations as they carry on those legacies and mark milestone events with their church families and neighbors.

CLENDENIN ADVENT CHRISTIAN CHURCH MARKS 100 YEARS OF FAITH AND FELLOWSHIP

This October, the Clendenin Advent Christian Church will celebrate a remarkable milestone—its 100th anniversary as a congregation. The theme for this centennial year is “Celebrating 100 Years of God’s Grace.”

The celebration will take place during the church’s annual Homecoming on Sunday, October 7, at 10:30 AM, with special music provided by the Jay Humphries Trio. Following the morning worship service, everyone is invited to continue the fellowship with a Homecoming dinner in the church’s Fellowship Hall. Friends, family, former pastors, and past members are especially encouraged to attend this joyful occasion.

The story of Clendenin Advent Christian Church began with a revival in 1925, when 17 charter members stepped out in faith to form a congregation. By 1929, the church had grown enough to purchase its first building—a vacant Baptist church—where Elder J.E. Elmore delivered the morning message. The Rev. William Harper became the church’s first recorded pastor, followed by the Rev. A.G. Withrow. In 1943, the congregation moved into the former Woods Memorial Methodist Church, which continues to be their home today.

The church’s charter members—J.W. and Ollie Gandee, Martha Boggs, Ella Cummings, Ben and Ellen Ashley, Effie Morgan, Matt Lynch, Woody and Myrtle Hall, Dottie Westfall, Bertha Young, Virgil and Mrs. Smith, John Lee, and Walter and Mattie Shafer—laid the foundation for a century of ministry and fellowship that continues to thrive.

As the congregation reflects on its past, it also looks forward with gratitude and hope. “We thank the Lord that He has continued to prosper our church,” members share. “As we grow and walk in faith, we recognize those who came before us and made our church a wonderful fellowship throughout the years.”

Everyone is invited to join the church family for this centennial celebration of worship, fellowship, and gratitude. For dinner reservations, please RSVP to Eva June Oliver (304-548-5455) or Kathy Walker (304-5423514), or send a message via Facebook Messenger.

JORDAN LIGHT BAPTIST CHURCH “OLD FASHIONED DAY”

For the past 30 years, Jordan Light Baptist Church on Wills Creek Road in Elkview has been bringing the community together for its beloved tradition—Old Fashioned Day. What began with ladies in long dresses and bonnets and men in overalls and suspenders has grown into a day filled with faith, food, and fellowship that continues to bless the Elkview area.

Church members Edna Strickland and Melvin Chandler first launched the event three decades ago, and it’s been a highlight ever since. While costumes have mostly faded out, the spirit of togetherness remains stronger than ever. As longtime member Carol Holley shared, “It is still a full day of shared fellowship for our church and the community.”

The celebration kicks off at 10 a.m. on the third Saturday of September with a morning sermon, followed by a country-style covered dish dinner at noon. Tables overflow with homemade favorites, many passed down through generations. Afternoon activities keep all ages entertained—corn hole, chalk art, fishing games, and more—while music fills the air during the outdoor gospel sing. This year’s featured group was the Jay Humphreys Trio. And of course, no Old Fashioned Day would be complete without the ever-popular cake walks, with desserts lovingly donated by the women of the church.

One of the most treasured traditions is the making of homemade apple butter, simmered slowly in a kettle over an open fire throughout the day. Visitors are welcome to take a turn stirring, and everyone leaves with a jar to enjoy at home. As Carol laughingly admits, “That was the part I always dreaded doing, but on Old Fashioned Day, it is what everyone wants to do!”

Pastor Bob Jett, who has faithfully served the church for 25 years, also invites the community to participate in other ministries year-round. The church operates a free Clothes Closet on the first and third Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., accepting donations and providing clothing for men, women, and children. They also sponsor a free weeklong summer camp at Camp Shepherd in Roane County for kids ages 6–18, with older youth encouraged to return as helpers.

Mark your calendars now for next September—Jordan Light Baptist Church’s Old Fashioned Day is a wonderful opportunity to gather, celebrate, and share in the joy of community. And what’s even better—you go home with a jar of fresh apple butter!

Explore the Paranormal Side of the Mountain State

ERL WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE WV DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM FOR THE INFORMATION AND PHOTOS FOR THIS ARTICLE | WVTOURISM.COM

Do you dare to walk where spirits linger? This October, West Virginia invites you to explore its statewide Paranormal Trail—a bucket-list adventure that blends ghost stories, folklore, and spinechilling fun. With 21 haunted and legendary sites to discover, the trail is more than a thrill: it’s a journey through history, mystery, and the unexplained.

HOW IT WORKS

Grab your 2025 digital Paranormal Trail Passport by scanning the QR code, or visit wvtourism.com/west-virginia-paranormal-trail

EACH TIME YOU VISIT A SITE, check–in within a 0.25 mile radius to earn exclusive prizes:

3 SITES

Paranormal Trail

Sticker

8 SITES

Paranormal Trail

Keyring

15 SITES

Paranormal Trail

Trucker Hat

ALL 21 SITES

Limited Edition

Paranormal Trail Lantern

Whether you’re a ghost hunter, history buff, or just in it for the goosebumps, the more you explore, the more you win.

Flatwoods Monster Museum (Sutton)

Explore the legend of West Virginia’s most famous cryptid.

West Virginia

Bigfoot Museum (Sutton)

Dive into the state’s largest collection of Bigfoot evidence.

Bigfoot Carved Statue (Elk River Trail, near Ivydale)

A 10.5-foot statue keeping watch over the forest.

The Haunted Haymond House (Sutton)

A chilling haunted attraction full of eerie encounters.

THE 21

PARANORMAL TRAIL STOPS

Hotel Morgan (Morgantown)

A century-old boutique hotel with whispers of paranormal activity.

Shepherdstown Mystery Walks (Shepherdstown)

Step into the shadows of America’s oldest town.

Cryptid Mountain

Miniature Golf (Morgantown)

Putt through monsters, shadows, and Bigfoot sightings.

Trans-Allegheny

Lunatic Asylum (Weston)

Playful spirits and eerie legends fill this former

Seneca Caverns (Riverton)

Underground chambers where echoes tell more than (Lewisburg)

Haunted by footsteps and flickering lights.

Greenbrier Valley (Lewisburg)

A stage where folklore blurs

The Historic Glen Ferris Inn (Glen Ferris) Said to host a Civil War colonel’s ghost.

The Old Hospital on College Hill (Williamson) Paranormal encounters in a former medical center.

Mothman Museum (Point Pleasant)

Home to West Virginia’s most famous winged cryptid.

Lake Shawnee Abandoned Amusement Park (Rock) Silent rides, phantom laughter, and ghostly figures.

West Virginia

Penitentiary (Moundsville) Gothic prison with tours and ghost hunts.

Flinderation Tunnel (Salem)

A haunted railroad tunnel with a tragic past.

Silver Run

Tunnel #19 (Cairo)

Known for sightings of a mysterious woman in white.

Hempfield (Tunnel Green) Tunnel (Wheeling)

Ghostly sounds and fleeting shadows in its dark passageways.

ASEASONOFSPIRITS

From abandoned amusement parks and haunted hospitals to cryptid museums and Civil War inns, each Paranormal Trail stop offers a story you won’t forget. Some visitors come for the folklore, others for the frights—but all leave with goosebumps and memories.

So, mark your calendar, grab your digital passport, and start checking in. Whether you’re hunting Mothman, spotting Bigfoot, or stirring up the ghosts of Appalachia, West Virginia’s Paranormal Trail promises a spooktacular October adventure.

Do you believe in ghosts… or will you after the PARANORMAL TRAIL?

Ghost Tours of Harpers Ferry
Glenn Ferris Inn Lake Shawnee
TransAllegheny Lunatic Asylum

Did You Know?

West Virginia is brimming with folklore that fuels the Paranormal Trail. Here are a few eerie extras you might encounter along the way… if you dare.

Haunting Legends of West Virginia

Braxton County Green Monster

Close kin to the Flatwoods Monster, this eerie being is rumored to stalk the woods, glowing with an otherworldly light.

The Grafton Monster

A hulking, headless creature said to lurk along the Tygart River. Witnesses describe it as a smooth, pale beast towering over seven feet tall.

Ghost Train of Harpers Ferry

Locals claim to see a phantom locomotive barreling through town at night, vanishing without a sound.

Sheepsquatch

Also called “White Thing,” this cryptid blends Bigfoot and ram-like features. Reports of glowing eyes and foul odors make it one of Appalachia’s strangest legends.

Mothman

First Mothman sighting was in the Town of Clendenin on Cemetery Hill before it was then spotted in Point Pleasant.

The Phantom Hitchhiker

Drivers on winding mountain roads tell tales of a lone figure thumbing a ride—only to disappear from the back seat before reaching the next town.

Bigfood Carved Statue near Ivydale
Seneca Caverns
Hempfield Tunnel
Cryptid Mountain Mini Golf
Moundsville Penitentiary
WV Bigfoot Museum
Shepherdstown Mystery Walks
The Haunted Haymond House

GOD’S POOL IN PARTICLE PARK

Meet Danny Boyd

In September, Plot Twist Books and the South Charleston Public Library hosted West Virginia’s own Daniel Boyd and his publisher, Cat Pleska, for a book reading, discussion, and signing. If you are looking for a copy, Plot Twist has copies now and it is also available from Mountain State Press!

Daniel “Danny” Boyd is a local West Virginian, author and acclaimed filmmaker (Chillers, Strangest Dreams, and Paradise Park).

He is a two-time television regional Emmy nominee, a multi-nominated graphic novelist (Chillers I & II, CARBON, SALT) and playwright (Paradise Park the Musical, Space Preachers the Musical, Miss Dirt Turtle’s Garden Club Musical), and Broadway World WV Best Musical 2021.

His muti-award winning children’s books include The Adventures of Wandala, Miss Dirt Turtle’s Garden Club, Tavey’s First Hunt, and WrestleDreamia, all Gold Mom’s Choice Award Winners. Boyd’s first novella, God’s Pool in Particle Park, was just released in 2025. He is a retired media studies professor at WV State University and has also taught around the world including Tanzania as a three-time Fulbright Scholar.

Mountain State Press:

God’s Pool in Particle Park is a book that infuses magical realism into the down-on-its-luck town of Nottus, WV, and its citizens. The town’s librarian, Tate, purchases an old book, Somewhere Behind, a Depression-era tale of refugees Gray and Sarah, who are fleeing the chaos of the nation’s capital. Tate’s reading is interrupted by the appearance of Elsie, who died in 1932 while reading the same book. Elsie

cannot rest her soul until she has completed the book. As she and Tate read together, romance unfurls—one in God’s Pool and one in Somewhere Behind. Ruby, a small little angel of a girl, tries to keep her mother alive while in the background a mysterious scientist is building a particle accelerator to bring a new kind of energy to the world. Or is he? Nottus becomes a place of fantastical magic with a wild cast of characters: Constable 12-Gage, doctors Wonderland and Jackson, river pirates, and grandfatherly Frank, a peddler who may be orchestrating the whole shebang.

BACKYARD BEAUTY

R.

shared a striking photo series taken near New

Road this summer. Her images beautifully follow the transformation of a caterpillar into a butterfly, reminding us of the quiet miracles unfolding in our own backyards.

Diana
Davis of Elkview
Hope

NATIONAL MERIT SEMI-FINALIST

The HHHS Counseling Department announced Jeremiah Eagle has been recognized as a National Merit SemiFinalist, placing him among the top students in the nation!

HHHS FRIDAY NIGHT RIVAL GAME OF THE WEEK

Herbert Hoover vs. Nitro was the September 12 Friday Night Rival Game of the Week, and the Hoover gridmen did not disappoint! HHHS Senior Blake Fisher was named the player of the game presented by Go Mart with 60 carries for 89 yards, a touchdown, 4 receptions for 60 yards, and he had a reception for a touchdown! The final score was 15-14 with a winning field goal by Senior Voss Duernberger made possible with a fumble recovery by Senior Sam Kee.

ELK ELEMENTARY ELKHOUNDS ARCHERY

The 2025 Archery season wrapped up for the Elk Elementary Elkhounds at the 3D Outdoor World Tournament with another double championship. Coach Jeffrey Mullins said, “There are eight possibilities for teams to win a championship during a season, and this team won seven of them! My head is spinning! I hope everyone involved in our success remembers this spectacular season for a lifetime. I know I will!” Congrats to Zoey Galwey for 1st place 3D, 2nd place 3-Star Challenge, and a $250 scholarship; Kyleigh Woody, 2nd place 3D, 3rd in 3-Star Challenge; Hadley Allen 4th place in 3-Star Challenge; and Sadie Harold 5th in 3-Star Challenge.

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

Live Tunes & Brews on Main Street, Clendenin WV Sat Oct 11 noon to 8PM

10 am-noon VENDORS SET UP

2 pm TRAD. CHICKEN DANCE & STEIN HOLDING COMPETITION

The Carpenter Ants Josh Pantry & The Boys

THE YOUNG BROTHERS

In the Elk River community, the Young brothers touched so many of our lives.

The Elk River community remembers!

Joyce Gandee: Dear ole Henry, My 7th grade teacher. He had us learn the multiplication tables forward and backwards. Had contests. To this day I still remember them because of him!

Carolyn Weyant: Henry. Our 7th grade math teacher… had to say multiplication tables backward in 10 seconds.

Suzanne Young Summers: My grandfather was Scott Young, on the left end.

Amelia Dalton: The very best family!

Phyllis Rucker Potter: Lots of memories here. I loved Henry and his lovely wife, Fay.

Aileen Huffman Taylor: Bogo was a good friend to Shine Naylor whom I worked for at Naylor and Young’s.

Marsha Smith Lipscomb: Their mother and dad (Bertha and Scott) were my neighbors when I was growing up. I spent a lot of time with them. She always gave me circus peanuts and scott played the harmonica for me. Wonderful family.

Kathy Domico: My mom shopped at Tater’s Grocery Store every Saturday!

Barbara Lyons: My grandmother would send her order to Tater and he delivered her order to her home. She didn’t drive; he was very kind.

Melissa Boggs: Henry used to tell the best stories. I thought at one time he wrote a book.

Marsha Smith Lipscomb: Yes, I have Henry’s book: Tall Tales.

Pictured L-R, Scott, Herald (Shady), Frank, Byron (Tater), Charles (Bogo), William Clark, and Henry. This photo courtesy of Henry Young and You Know You’ve From Clendenin WV When, Editor Kim Johnson.

WELCOME CONGRESSWOMAN CAROL MILLER

We were honored to welcome Congresswoman Carol Miller to Clay County when she made a special stop at Rail Explorers along the Elk River Trail!

It was a great moment for our partners at Rail Explorers and for our Executive Director, Madison, who had the opportunity to speak with the Congresswoman during her visit. We’re thrilled to see our congressional representative taking interest in the outdoor recreation and economic development happening right here along the Elk River Trail.

Thank you for your support, Congresswoman Miller! We hope to see you again soon at one of our trailheads!

RUNNING THE ELK RIVER Marathon, Half

Marathon & 5K

Sunday, September 14th, was a picture-perfect day along the Elk River as nearly 300 runners from 20 states laced up for the 4th annual Elk River Rail Trail Marathon, Half Marathon, and 5K. Clear skies, cool air, and the scenic riverside trail from Gassaway toward Clay County made for ideal racing conditions.

This was my first year attending the event as Executive Director of the Elk River Trail Foundation, and it was truly unforgettable. Watching runners cross the finish line— some collapsing into hugs with family, others celebrating hard-earned personal victories—was both moving and inspiring.

One especially memorable moment came when I met Jennifer Clark from Mississippi, who completed her 353rd half marathon right here on our trail! Jennifer has raced in every state, and this was her 4th event in West Virginia. She lit up talking about our trail’s beauty and even loved this year’s race shirts and medals, which proudly featured our hometown legend, the Braxton County Flatwoods Monster.

Marathoner Carla Stewart and Half-Marathoner Eric DeBelly traveled all the way from Washington State to compete, laying claim to the furthest-traveled by edging out Heather and Brian VandenBroek from Utah. Brian was the overall marathon winner with a time of 3:15:53.48. Glen Anderson and Karen Murray Anderson

traveled from Roanoke, VA. Glen has run marathons in all 50 states 11 times, placing him 7th on the all-time male list. Karen has posted marathons in all 50 states seven times, placing her second on the all-time female list! The most surprising result was nine-year-old Isla Hughart of Summersville winning the female 5k race with a time of 24:31.22!! Full race results and winners are posted on APTiming.com.

But this race is about more than miles and medals. It’s also an important fundraiser for the Elk River Trail Foundation, with proceeds helping us care for and improve the trail so it remains a welcoming place for everyone.

None of it would be possible without the heart of our community—our volunteers. From cheering at water stations to handling setup and cleanup, their energy and dedication kept the event running smoothly. We’re also grateful to APTiming LLC and our many local supporters who make this race grow year after year.

Looking ahead, we’re already excited for next year and hope to welcome even more runners to discover the beauty—and the spirit—of the Elk River Trail.

Stay connected with us on Facebook or visit our website for updates and details about next year’s race. We can’t wait to see you on the trail!

PICKIN’, CARVIN’, LOVIN’ PUMPKINS

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!

Long before the pilgrims arrived in America, pumpkins were already a staple in the Native American diet. They roasted long strips over open fires, preserved seeds for food and medicine, and passed along this knowledge to early settlers. The pilgrims quickly embraced the pumpkin, adding it to soups, stews, and other hearty dishes.

It’s even believed that the very first pumpkin pie began as a whole pumpkin with its top sliced off, the seeds scooped out, and the cavity filled with milk, spices, and honey. The pumpkin was then baked in the hot ashes of a fire—a far cry from today’s flaky-crusted pies!

WHY ARE PUMPKINS ORANGE?

Pumpkins get their signature orange hue from carotenoids—natural pigments that give them color. While pumpkins start out green thanks to chlorophyll, the pigment fades as summer ends, allowing the orange tones to shine through as the pumpkin ripens.

TIPS FOR PICKING THE PERFECT PUMPKIN

If you’re heading out to the patch, here are a few things to look for:

Color: Deep, uniform orange without streaks of green.

Rind Hardness: A ripe pumpkin has a tough rind that resists your thumbnail.

Sound: Tap it—ripe pumpkins sound hollow, like a drum.

Stem: Look for a hard, dry stem. Green stems mean it’s not quite ready.

Harvest on a dry day, handle carefully, and always leave a few inches of stem to help your pumpkin last longer.

POPULAR PUMPKINS IN OUR AREA

Jack-o’-lantern: The classic big, bright-orange pumpkin for carving.

Sugar/Pie Pumpkin: Smaller and sweeter—perfect for baking.

Atlantic Giant: Grown for size and competition.

Casper & Baby Boo: Unique white varieties that have grown in popularity.

Local grower Makala Elmore knows a thing or two about raising pumpkins. Her vines brighten the roadside each fall along her split rail fence. Her tip? “If you only let one pumpkin grow on each vine, they’ll get bigger—especially the Atlantic Giants. And don’t forget plenty of water!”

FUN PUMPKIN FACTS

• Morton, Illinois, is the pumpkin capital of the world and home to Libby’s.

• The average pumpkin has about 1 cup of seeds inside.

• Pumpkins belong to the gourd family.

• The word “pumpkin” comes from the Greek pepon, meaning “large melon.”

• Pumpkins grow on every continent except Antarctica.

• About half of the world’s pumpkins are grown in the United States.

• The Irish brought pumpkin carving to America— originally, they carved turnips!

• Pumpkins are rich in potassium and vitamin A.

• Pumpkin blossoms are edible.

• Pumpkins are made up of about 90% water.

A SEASONAL FAVORITE

Whether you’re carving jack-o’-lanterns, baking pies, or decorating your porch, pumpkins are one of the sweetest signs of fall. This October, enjoy the colors, flavors, and traditions that make pumpkins a favorite in our community.

Photos of Makala Elmore's pumpkins.
Photos of Makala Elmore's pumpkins.

CELEBRATE NATIONAL PHYSICAL THERAPY MONTH THIS OCTOBER

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.

October is National Physical Therapy Month, a time to recognize the important role physical therapists play in improving health and well-being. This month, we celebrate the invaluable contributions of physical therapists and the many benefits of physical therapy.

Holistic Approach

Physical therapy takes a holistic approach, focusing on the entire body instead of just treating symptoms. Physical therapists assess how various systems work together to improve overall function and mobility, leading to better health outcomes.

Safety First

One of the biggest advantages of physical therapy is its safety. Unlike surgical procedures and medications that can carry side effects and risks, physical therapy is a non-invasive treatment option. It effectively manages pain and improves function without serious risks or sideeffects, making it an ideal choice.

Cost-Effective Care

Physical therapy often proves to be more cost-effective than other medical interventions, like surgeries and long-term medication. By addressing health issues early, patients can minimize future treatment costs and enjoy quicker recovery times.

Enhanced Mobility and Function

Physical therapists are dedicated to helping individuals regain the ability to engage in their favorite activities. Whether recovering from surgery, an injury, or managing a chronic condition, therapists provide personalized plans tailored to each patient’s goals.

Long-Term Health Benefits

The advantages of physical therapy extend beyond immediate relief. By addressing the root causes of pain and dysfunction, patients can achieve lasting improvements in health. Physical therapy also emphasizes the importance of physical activity, helping individuals maintain a healthier lifestyle and reduce the risk of future injuries.

As we celebrate National Physical Therapy Month, we encourage everyone to recognize the numerous benefits physical therapy offers. If you’re considering physical therapy, reach out to Elk Valley Physical Therapy to discover how it can help you lead a more active and fulfilling life. For more information, visit the APTA’s ChoosePT Portal at www.choosept.com.

About The Private Practice Section of the American Physical Therapy Association

Founded in 1956, the Private Practice Section of the American Physical Therapy Association champions the success of physical therapist-owned businesses. Our members are leaders and innovators in the healthcare system. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) represents more than 85,000 physical therapists, physical therapist assistants and students of physical therapy nationwide. For more information, please visit www.ppsapta.org.

Happy National Physical Therapy Month from

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