ELKRIVERLIVING.COM
VOLUME 01 | ISSUE 04 | MAR 2019
ELK RIVER LIVING
™
CAPTURING WV’S BEAUTY WITH JILL MOLES MULLINS
Athlete for the Win
Heartbeat of Elk River
Dream Comes True
Down Memory Lane
Colorful Baked Beans
March’s Elk River Hero
Years of hard work and dedication paid off as HHHS Senior Taylor Bohan was awarded a golf scholarship at Concord University and will be a Mountain Lion Lady Golfer.
There is no better place to remember the good ole’ days than in the newly expanded Museum of the Elk River Communities in Kanawha County.
Elk River Community & Education Center offers an array of activities and events where local residents can eat lunch, shop for bargains, exercise, and enjoy friends.
This family favorite recipe is a new twist on the standard baked beans. Mom Wainwright says baking them in a bean pot makes the difference.
Koontz Gym packs in the crowds in Clendenin, bringing more opportunities for growth and community involvement.
Matt Lyons proudly serves as a Chief Master Sergeant in the Air National Guard and is the captain of the Clendenin Volunteer Fire Department.
ELK RIVER LIVING
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ELK RIVER LIVING
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ELK RIVER LIVING
AUTO: PERSONAL & COMMERCIAL FLOOD 路 CYCLES 路 ATVs BOAT 路 HOME 路 RVs NOW DOING VEHICLE TITLE AND LICENSING CLENDENIN 304.548.4726
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ELK RIVER LIVING
TABLE OF CONTENTS 18 Cover Story: Local Photographer Captures WV Beauty and Awards
24 Sinking the College Putt
Jill Moles Mullins of Clendenin has taken her hobby and transformed it into a successful photography career.
Taylor’s accomplishments are even more remarkable given the adversity she overcame to earn her golf scholarship.
28 Elk River Hub of the Community
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One of Elk River’s best treasures is the Elk River Community and Education Center (formerly the Elkview Elementary School).
Clendenin Gym Packs in the Crowds When 25045--A New Clendenin, Inc. purchased the former Clendenin Middle School gymnasium, their goal was to bring new events to the Town of Clendenin--and it is happening! 06
Welcome Back to Elk River Living!
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Elk River Hero: Matt Lyons
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Our Valued Sponsors
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Treasure Trove of Elk River Memories
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Events In the Valley
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This Month’s Reader Submission
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Mom Wainwright’s Colorful Beans
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The Elk’s Journal
Hello & Welcome Back!
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his month’s magazine focuses on many memories. I had the pleasure of meeting with Carolyn Pirnat and Richard Bashlor and time traveling through the Elk River Communities Museum of Kanawha County located upstairs at the Elk River Community and Education Center. I saw the last Elkview High School letterman jacket and the first Herbert Hoover jacket. I saw majorette and cheerleading uniforms. I saw drums from Hoover that survived the flood. I leafed through the yearbooks. I wandered through the military room and saw uniforms and photos of those no longer with us but who certainly are not forgotten thanks to that room. I looked at the many faces on the posters in the hallway outside the museum...younger versions of us today. Our homecoming queens, our quarterbacks, our wrestlers and basketball stars, our classmates, our teachers, so many wonderful memories. Speaking of memories, it was also wonderful to tour the downstairs of the Elk Community Center which was once Elkview Elementary School. The rooms now have new lives, including a senior lunch room which doubles as a place for Friday Night Jam sessions, a fitness center, a thrift shop, and a billiards and checkers room. Laughter and purpose still fill the building, but in a new light. Life moves on. The last memory this month is of Jill Moles Mullins, our feature story. I knew her when her family lived behind my mom and dad’s home in Clendenin. She was probably four years old at that time. It was so awesome to meet and talk with her again. The little girl with long, straight, dark hair and bangs was now a taller young woman who looks much the same at first glance. Second glance, however, reveals a confident, successful photographer whose love of West Virginia landscapes and wildlife is abundant in her stunning photos. We are pleased to share some of her internationally-recognized work this month, including our cover photo of the stone bridge over the backwaters of the Elk which was taken at Reamer. I truly enjoyed writing every word in our featured stories this month. What an honor it was to revisit the past and to be happy for the many good things that are happening on the Elk River today. Remember, there’s no place like home...on the Elk River.
Cyndi Tawney Founder & Editor 304.546.9243 cyndi@elkriverliving.com
E L K RIVER LIVING Editor In Chief /
Cyndi Tawney
Creative Director /
Josh Tawney
Operations Director
Kenneth Tawney
Guest Photographer /
April Curry & Phil Blackwell
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: At Reamer near Old Elk Refinery Plant, Clendenin, WV by Jill Moles Mullins. This month our guest photographer is Phil Blackwell from Blue Creek. Photography is his hobby and he especially enjoys taking pictures of nature and landscapes on the Elk River. If you are Facebook friends with Phil, you have seen many of his awesome photos. We appreciate him photographing the Elk River Communities Museum and the Elk River Community Center for our stories this month!
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give our sponsors the opportunity to have your business. They care a great deal about you and the Elk River Community. would you like to advertise with Elk River Living? please contact cyndi@elkriverliving.com or 304.546.9243
ALL SEASONS SELF STORAGE 304.965.7988 allseasonsselfstoragewv.com
CLENDENIN PHARMACY 304.548.5451 contact Bill or Lindsay Ore Matuszkiewicz
HAFER FUNERAL HOME 304.965.3331 / 304.965.3341 haferfuneralhome.net
ALLEN’S LAUNDROMAT 304.548.7100 9 Main St, Clendenin
CREDE TRACTOR 304.965.1666 contact William Crede
HEAD HUNTERS 304.343.2049 check them out on Facebook
ANYTIME FITNESS 304.596.5888 contact Jeremy Elswick
ELK FAMILY DENTISTRY 304.965.6661 contact Joey Adkins, DDS
HOLSTEIN INSURANCE 304.965.9941 holsteininsuranceagencyinc.com
BECKY’S PET PARLOR 304.951.9162 Rebecca Briles & Kaitlyn Truman
JEFF’S AUTO & TOWING 304.965.7525 22 Quick Rd, Pinch
BRIAN’S AUTO & TOWING 681.230.2508 brian.stclair@aol.com
ELK RIVER AUTOMOTIVE 304.965.7501 contact Gary W. Pauley II ELK RIVER AUTO. SUPPLY 304.965.5312 contact Glenn Pauley
BLUE CREEK HEATING & COOLING 304.965.9148 contact Bill Ross or Roy Crist
ELK VALLEY PHYSICAL THERAPY 304.965.7979 contact Andi Geary, MPT
JONES AUTO 304.965.6180 jonesautotruckrepair@gmail.com
BOLTON DESIGN BUILD boltondesignbuild@frontier.com 304.389.0149
FINGERS 2 TOES 304.541.6134 contact Jennifer Casto
JULIO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 304.548.4625 12 Main St, Clendenin
BOWEN DENTAL Chas: 304.342.0146 / Clay: 304.587.7495 contact Stacy or Gary Bowen II
FORD & SWEENEY 304.935.4801 51 Credes Landing, Elkview
KNIGHT INSURANCE 304.548.4726 knightinsurance@frontier.com
CANTRELL’S FLORIST 304.548.7700 7484 Elk River Rd, Clendenin
GABBY’S SEWING & MORE 304.437.3739 gabbyssewingwv.com
MASTER CRAFTERS & PRIMITIVE SHOPPE 304.965.6222 contact Shavonne Hale
CHRISTY CONLEY Destination Specialist christina.conley@cruiseplanners.com 304.377.0803
GIOVANNI’S - CLENDENIN 304.548.7002 giovannispizzapower.com
There’s no place like home!
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JONES EXCAVATING 304.965.6180 jonesexcavatingofcharleston.com
MATICS FUNERAL HOME 304.548.6611 maticsfuneralhome@suddenlink.net
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Jeff’s Automotive & Towing Friendly Family Business Excellent Customer Service Full Service Garage Pinch Towing Jeff’s Pre-Owned Auto Sales Auto Maintenance & Repair, Tires and Used Vehicles for Sale
22 Quick Road – Pinch, WV
MICHAEL’S UNIQUE STYLES 304.965.3605 michaelsuniquestyles@gmail.com
ONE FOR THE BOOKS 304.552.3956 oneforthebooksllc.com
MITCH’S 24 HR TOWING 304.965.6646 contact Mitch Young
PAMALA’S GIFTS & TREASURES 304.548.7100 7 Main St. Clendenin
MOLLOHAN AUTO BODY 304.437.2195 2026 Waters Edge Dr, Elkview
PENNY PINCHERS 304.548.4005 www.pennypinchersllc2.com
MOMMA PAYNE’S DINER 304.543.9930 14 Main St, Clendenin
POCA VALLEY BANK 304.965.7730 pocavalleybank.com
MOUNTAINEER AUCTION 304.548.4056 contact Roger Mullins
SHAFER’S BARBERSHOP 304.654.0726 Facebook.com/shafersbarbershop
MT. PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH 304.965.7062 mpbcwv.org
SHARI’S FAMILY HAIR CARE 304.400.4945 contact Shari Ball
MURDOCK’S AUTO REPAIR MURDOCK’S PRE-OWNED AUTOS 304.548.3255 murdockspreownedautosales.com
SLEEP INN HARDINGS FAMILY RESTAURANT 800.216.0661 & 304.344.5044 sleepinncharlestonwv.com
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We Specialize in Subarus
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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 TIM & TONYA DUNNAVANT REAL ESTATE CENTRAL 304.437.3888 / 304.437.2888 Xspec POWER 304.746.1139 contact Emily Canterbury
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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
Beck y’s Pet Parlor
Rebecca L. Briles & Kaitlyn M. Truman PROFESSIONAL DOG GROOMERS
304 951 9162 10
166 North Pinch Road Elkview, WV 25071
CLASSIC STEEL HOT ROD ASSOCIATION
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Charles Stricker, President 304.543.3825 304.965.2462 souflowers@aol.com 5106 Elk River Rd Elkview
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EVENTS
mar. happenings FRIDAY NIGHT JAM ELK RIVER COMMUNITY CENTER 1078 MAIN ST. ELKVIEW, WV Feat. RECYCLE, Bill Ross 304.965.3722 INDOOR YARD SALE CLENDENIN UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 121 KOONTZ AVE., CLENDENIN 9AM-3PM
We would love to feature what matters to you, so please submit your upcoming events to:
cyndi@elkriverliving.com
HHHS mar. sports BOY’S BASEBALL VARSITY / JV
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DESIGNER PURSE BINGO FOR HHHS PROJ. GRAD. ELKVIEW MIDDLE SCHOOL 5090 ELK RIVER RD. N., ELKVIEW STARTS AT 12 NOON CONTACT 304.859.0077 for more info
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LITTLE LEAGUE SIGN-UPS MOMMA PAYNE’S DINER 14 MAIN ST. CLENDENIN 9AM-12 NOON
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SPAGHETTI DINNER & SILENT AUCTION FUNDRAISER FOR DARRELL BOGGS MOMMA PAYNE’S DINER 14 MAIN ST. CLENDENIN, WV 11AM-4PM
A - WINFIELD A - LEWIS COUNTY
7:00PM / 4:30PM 1:00PM / 3:00PM 6:00PM 6:00PM 7:00PM / 4:30PM 7:00PM / 4:30PM 7:00PM 7:00PM / 4:30PM 7:00PM / 4:30PM 5:00PM / 7:00PM
H - NICHOLAS COUNTY H - MINGO COUNTY
5:30PM 3:00PM / 1:00PM
H - BRAXTON COUNTY H - LEWIS COUNTY A - SOUTH CHARLESTON H - CHARLESTON CATHOLIC A - POCA H - SCOTT H - NITRO POWER PARK A - ROANE COUNTY
GIRL’S SOFTBALL
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H - HURRICAN SCRIMMAGE A - CABELL MIDLAND SCRIMMAGE A - BRAXTON COUNTY A - WINFIELD H - CHAPMANVILLE H - INDEPENDENCE A - PA SCHOOL (@ NICHOLAS) A - NICHOLAS COUNTY A - CHAPMANVILLE A - POCA A - EAST FAIRMONT
5:30PM 6:30PM 1:00PM 5:30PM 5:30PM 5:30PM 2:00PM 4:00PM 5:30PM 6:00PM 2:00PM
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NEW 6-WEEK WOMEN’S BIBLE STUDY CLENDENIN FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH 500 VIRGINIA AVE, CLENDENIN Topic: The Easter Experience by Kyle Idleman 10AM Thursday Mornings
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FRIDAY NIGHT JAM ELK RIVER COMMUNITY CENTER 1078 MAIN ST. ELKVIEW, WV 25071 Feat. DIXIE HIGHWAY, CYNDI BIRD 304.965.3722
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FRIDAY NIGHT JAM ELK RIVER COMMUNITY CENTER 1078 MAIN ST. ELKVIEW, WV 25071 Feat. MARK IV, STEPHANIE MOORE 304.965.3722
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FRIDAY NIGHT JAM ELK RIVER COMMUNITY CENTER 1078 MAIN ST. ELKVIEW, WV 25071 Feat. SOUTHERN COOKIN’, STEVE MULLINS 304.965.3722
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SOCK HOP & LIVE AUCTION FUNDRAISER FOR CLENDENIN HOMECOMING FESTIVAL COM. MOMMA PAYNE’S DINER 14 MAIN ST, CLENDENIN 6PM-9PM, ADMISSION $3.00
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FRIDAY NIGHT JAM ELK RIVER COMMUNITY CENTER 1078 MAIN ST. ELKVIEW, WV 25071 Feat. RUF CUT COUNTRY, PHIL MOLES 304.965.3722
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235 ELK RIVER ROAD SOUTH CLENDENIN, WV
304.548.7100 7 Main Street Clendenin, WV 25045 mon. - sat. 10am - 6pm FIND US ON FACEBOOK!
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MOM WAINWRIGHT ’S COLORFUL BAKED BEANS
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Sean and his wife, Lee Ann, lived at Mink Shoals while he was employed with Weatherford. They adopted the Elk River as their second home and often visit here with friends. They have two children, Finley and Lydia,and now reside in Oakdale, PA.
The beautiful colors in this dish makes your moutnh water
ith summer just around the corner (fingers crossed), there’s nothing like a good baked bean recipe, and this month Sean Wainwright shared his mom’s Colorful Baked Bean recipe with us. Sean said it can be baked in the oven or, his favorite, in his smoker. His mother, Barbara Wainwright, lives in Waterford, Ohio, just outside of Marietta. Barbara is a firm believer that the beans taste better when they are baked in a bean pot such as the one in the photos. She says you can find oldfashioned bean pots at most antique stores.
ELK RIVER LIVING
 � � � �
Here’s What You’ll Need
Level: Easy
Total: 150 min Active: 30 min
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Bake or smoke at 275Ëš for 2 hours
1 Can Kidney Beans (drained)
D US YO SEN UR
1 Can of Baked Beans (your choice) 1 Can of Lima Beans (drained)
Yield: 4 servings
S! CIPE RE
RL IVI NG.COM
DIRECTIONS
CY E IV NDI @ELKR
1 Can Butter Beans (drained) 1 Cup Dark Brown Sugar Ÿ Cup Apple Cider Vinegar ½ lb. Bacon, chopped and uncooked 1 Onion, chopped 2 cloves of Garlic, diced Ÿ teaspoon Dry Mustard 1-2 Jalapeno peppers, chopped (optional)
14 MAIN STREET CLENDENIN, WV 25045
304.543.9930
Photo Credits: April Curry, Photos by AC
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304.965.9941 4920 ELK RIVER RD S. ELKVIEW AUTO | HOME | BUSINESS | LIFE GARY HOLSTEIN, AGENT | MGR AGENT@HOLSTEININSURANCEAGENCYINC.COM
WWW.HOLSTEININSURANCEAGENCYINC.COM
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ELK RIVER LIVING
BRIAN’S AUTO & TOWING
BRIAN ST. CLAIR, owner 103 COBB LOOP P.O. BOX 185 CLENDENIN
681.230.2508
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ELK RIVER LIVING
Jill Mullins with her camera
ELK RIVER LIVING
CAPTURING WV’S BEAUTY & WINNING AWARDS Beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, but a great picture is in the eye and the expertise of the photographer. Jill Moles Mullins, a fine arts photographer and workshop instructor based in Clendenin, has loved photography all of her life. She picked up her first camera at age nine. She has taken what once was just a hobby and has transformed it into a successful and thriving photography career.
J
ill summarized her background as selftaught and trial and error. She explained, “You can have an eye for photography and still not know how to use your camera to get the picture.” Jill laughs when people remark that she must have a good camera. “It takes a combination of a good camera, knowing how to use your camera effectively, and lots of patience and practice to capture that perfect shot,” she explained.
She has a love for photographing wildlife. In fact, she was out taking pictures of a huge buck in Canaan Valley when she met Leonard LaRue, a professional photographer who has more than 60 years experience and over 1800 magazine covers to his credit. She said he came over and talked to her and gave her tips for submitting her photographs to magazines. He told her she had to do slides only for magazines. After that meeting in the early 1980s, she had seven pictures featured in a tri-state wildlife magazine. She said that’s when she really got excited about her photography. When Jill's sons were born, she focused her photography on the children and their activities. That took precedence over her traveling and traversing. Now she is back to what she loves which is photographing wildlife, nature, landscapes, waterfalls, sunrises and sunsets. She attended a five-day photography retreat
at South Carolina last year that encompassed many of the surrounding areas, one being Folly Beach State Park, where they met at 2:00 AM to photograph the Milky Way, then the sunrise, gardens and nature during the day, and then back at sunset. She said, “There is nothing like being in the wild, photographing nature at its best.” One of her favorites is taking long exposure shots. It was quite the busy fall for Jill. She spent significant time taking photos in West Virginia state parks. One of her pictures was selected as the photo on the West Virginia Elk Thank You participation card for the first Elk Tours in West Virginia history. Also, this past fall, she participated in the 2018 National Park Service Hidden History Photo Contest which featured the rich heritage of southern West Virginia. Not only did she win seven first-place awards and one second-place award, but her photo titled Tracks of the Past won Best in Show. Her photos were on display at Tamarack during the month of September and then went on tour to various areas through southern WV. The exhibit will be at the Canyon Rim Visitor Center of the New River Gorge National River in Lansing, WV during the month of March. She also took pictures for the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 132 and did a publicity photo shoot of Iheart Radio personalities for their Melbourne, Florida website. In October she began the
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and undiscovered artists. Jill is currently taking pictures to enter in the Surf and Turf competition for Tamarack. The theme is where water meets land. She is excited to take some creative shots. Jill said, “With my pictures I hope that I can inspire and excite others to seek out photography and discover the joys of capturing a moment in time and open up a new world of possibilities to explore.” Jill loves to teach workshops (private, group settings). She offers two- or three-day workshops in selected areas for amateur photographers. She also offers one-day workshops from sunrise to sunset, photographing a lot of different scenery. She said, “I love the excitement on a photographer’s face when it all comes together.” She likes teaching young photographers how to photograph in “raw” so that they capture every minute detail. Jill explained, “Post editing is the secret. When you photograph in raw, all the data for the image is saved; it is essentially a digital negative and offers more flexibility and more forgiveness in post editing. A simple bump of color can bring all the colors out.” Jill also teaches basic editing skills to make pictures pop in her workshops.
Capturing WV’s Beauty
You can see more of Jill’s work on her website at jillmullinsphotography.com and on Facebook. If you are interested in one of her photographs or a workshop, you can email her at jillmullinsphotography@yahoo.com or message her. Jill and her husband, Clinton Mullins, are from Clendenin, WV. They have two sons, Chris and Jacob Smith, and a daughter, Chelsea Mullins, also of Clendenin. Chris is a Veteran and was in Afghanistan during the war in 2011-2012. He was an Army Military Police, and was active for 8 years. Jacob belongs to the Army National Guard as a Combat Engineer in the Sappers unit. Jill’s parents and Clinton’s mother also live in Clendenin.
process to be juried into Tamarack in Beckley, WV, as a Fine Arts photographer, a treasured honor that places her among a very select group of acclaimed photographers. The final step came in December with an in-person interview when she was officially accepted. February is continuing the excitement for Jill as one of her pictures was juried into the Apartment Earth Gallery in Charleston, WV for its upcoming annual gallery show on February 28. Apartment Earth Gallery is a fine arts gallery based in Charleston devoted to presenting exemplary works primarily from emerging
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All photo credits: Jill Mullins
Matt Lyons and family
ELK RIVER HEROES 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.
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ach month Elk River Living features a veteran, an active member of the military, or a first responder. This month we are proud to honor Matt Lyons, who serves in two of those roles! Matt is the Captain at Clendenin Volunteer Fire Department (CVFD) and is also a (E-9) Chief Master Sergeant in the Air National Guard. “There is nothing stronger than the heart of a volunteer. We do it not for the attention or accolades, we do it because we desire to serve and protect those who are strangers to us and possibly going through the worst day of their lives.” --Matt Lyons Matt is no stranger when it comes to being a volunteer; in fact, he has volunteered as a first responder for 27 years. He has served on the Clendenin VFD for the past 15 years (formerly the Assistant Fire Chief), was previously a member of the Pinch VFD for 10 years, and was with the Marmet VFD for 2 years. During that time he was a career Assistant Fire Chief for the 130th Airlift Wing West Virginia Air National Guard Fire Department. Currently, he serves as the Emergency Manager “Fire, Security and Emergency Response” for Chemours Chemical Plant at Belle, WV. Matt is certified as a Fire Officer IV, Fire Instructor III, Fire Inspector III, WMD Hazardous Material Technician and Basic Life Support Instructor. He is affiliated with the West Virginia University Fire Service Extension, Mountain State Educational Service Cooperative (formerly RESA III) and is certified with the WV Board of Education Adult Educator for Fire and EMS curriculum. He says teaching young adults to become firefighters and educating different organizations (little league, church
MATT LYONS
ELK RIVER LIVING
groups, etc), for BLS (CPR) courses are some of his favorite memories. Matt says, “To be inspired is great, to inspire is incredible.” He also said, “Volunteer firefighters, Clendenin specifically, put their lives in jeopardy every day in an effort to keep families within their own communities safe.” Matt lives in Clendenin, WV, and graduated from Herbert Hoover High School in 1991. He entered the United States Army as a Combat Medic for 5 ½ years and then transferred to the Air Force. He is currently a (E-9) Chief Master Sergeant in the 130th Airlift Wing-167th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron at the McLaughlin Air National Guard Base in Charleston, WV. Matt is a National and State of West Virginia Paramedic and was awarded the Distinguished Graduate for Senior Non-Commissioned Officer’s Academy out of 360 SNCO’s in 2012. He has numerous deployments including Oconus- Constant Vigil, Southern Storm, Enduring Freedom (Ramstein, Germany), Iraqi Freedom (Kirkuk, Iraq), and Resolute Support-Brass Dragon-Werewolves Reborn Operations (Bagram, Afghanistan) His most recent deployment was in Afghanistan from May-Oct 2018. Matt said, “I’m proud of all that I have accomplished while serving in the military. I know because of the strong family support system that I have at home, I can continue to serve my community and country when needed.” Matt and his wife, Lea, have been married for 22 years. They have four daughters, Payge (2016 HHHS graduate), Payton (2019 HHHS upcoming graduate), Payslee (Elkview Middle School), and Payshence (Clendenin-Bridge Elementary). His mother is Deanna Lyons from Elkview, WV.
a tuesd
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-3605 / 30 65
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542-7502 4-
30 4 -9
ERL would like to say a special thank you to Matt for all he does for us here on the Elk River and a special salute for all he does for all of us abroad.
satu y rda
M I C H A E L' S UNIQUE STYLES 23
Michael Ryan OWNER/STYLIST
4636 PENNSYLVANIA AVE CHARLESTON, WV 25302 michaelsuniquestyles@gmail.com
SUCCESSFULLY SINKING THE COLLEGE PUTT Taylor Bohan and her dad, Mike, started playing golf together when she was in the fifth grade. Little did they know she was on her way to becoming a collegiate athlete. She signed her letter of intent with Concord University in Athens, WV, and this fall she will be an official Mountain Lion Lady Golfer. Taylor said, “Several colleges in West Virginia have women’s golf teams, but I fell in love with Concord’s campus when I first visited there.”
Taylor at the Greenbrier Tournament for the Pros
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aylor has been a member of the Elkview Middle (EMS) and the Herbert Hoover High School (HHHS) co-ed golf teams under the guidance of Coach Eddie Gray, who was recently recognized as 2018 State Athletic Director of the Year. Coach Gray said, “Over the years through her middle and high school careers, I have seen Taylor grow not only as a golfer, but as a responsible, young lady as well. Her dedication has definitely paid off as evidenced by her golf scholarship at Concord University.” Taylor’s accomplishments are even more remarkable given the adversity she overcame to earn her golf scholarship. During her
freshman year, she had a major back surgery for scoliosis. It was an obstacle to overcome, not just in life, but also in her golf game. The long process started in the fifth grade when she had to wear a brace and was only able to take it off for sports. She wore it until the summer before her freshman year. Her curvature hit the mark of 50 degrees at that point and it was time to have surgery. By the time she had the surgery, her spine curvature was 63 degrees. After a seven-hour surgery she had 30+ screws and two rods in her spine and had gained two inches in height. Her curvature now is only 12-13 degrees. Taylor also has been a member of the HHHS Track Team, but this spring she is going to
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as well. She said, “Continuing to play golf in college will help me strive to keep up my school work. College athletes are many times better academicians because we know the importance of staying focused and dedicated.”
devote her time working with Coach Gray and the EMS co-ed team which consists of 2 girls and 9 boys. Coach Gray said, “Taylor has dedicated countless hours of community service working with the middle school team.” He also stated that in his ten years of coaching golf, she is the first female golfer at HHHS to receive a college golf scholarship.
Taylor is the daughter of Mike and Missy Bohan of Big Chimney. She has one sister, Maddie. Taylor says becoming an official Concord University Mountain Lion Lady Golfer is a dream come true while she pursues a degree in Secondary Education. She would like to thank everyone who has guided her along the way over the years to get where she is today. ”I wouldn’t be who I am without everyone’s help.”
This past fall, West Virginia Secondary Schools Athletics Commission had its first high school Girls’ Golf Invitational. Out of 52 girls, Taylor placed eighth overall. This summer Taylor will again participate in the Callaway Junior Tour which consists of Junior golfers. The tour is co-ed with separate divisions for boys’ and girls’ scoring. It is played all around the state of WV and the championship tournament is held at the end of the season at The Greenbrier. Coach Gray said, “The Callaway Junior Tour is a great way to offer young golfers experience in tournament play, extra practice, and exposure to college coaches.”
Taylor with her dad at Coonskin Golf Course
Taylor believes being a part of the EMS and HHHS golf teams has provided motivation for her to stay on top of her golf game which in turn has transitioned into her academics
Taylor with her mom, dad, and sister Mattie on signing day
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ELK RIVER HUB OF THE COMMUNITY If you haven’t been to the Elk River Community and Education Center (aka the former Elkview Elementary School behind the Elkview Dairy Queen), you are missing one of the community’s best treasures. It offers a great place to get together and socialize, have lunch, shoot billiards, exercise, find great bargains, and enjoy local bands.
The Fitness Room has new exercise equipment; Photo Credit: Phil Blackwell
The ERCC Fitness Center
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f you’ve been wanting to exercise but think you can’t afford a gym, you are in luck! The Elk River Community Fitness Center has new exercise equipment in a clean, friendly, and safe atmosphere. The exercise rooms are open Monday through Friday, 8 am to 12 Noon, Monday through Thursday evenings from 5 pm to 7 pm, and on Saturday from 7am to 9am. The Center asks that you drop a $1.00 donation in their box to help maintain the equipment.There is no standing around waiting for equipment. Grab your sneakers and a bottle of water and come get fit, trim and healthy.
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Elk River seniors enjoy a delicious lunch every day at the ERCC Photo Credit: Phil Blackwell
The ERCC Lunch Room
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10 am to 1 pm so you can have lunch, visit with friends, share stories, and even join in a game of BINGO. Call (304) Kanawha Senior Services at 9653175 for more information. Smith’s Super Value donates a cake for lunch at the end of each month.
anawha Senior Services provides a hot, home-cooked meal every weekday, Monday through Friday at 12 noon in the Elk River Community Center Lunch Room. Karen Edwards, the best and friendliest cook you’ve ever met, has a wonderful menu each week including such delicious entrees as meatloaf (everyone’s favorite lunch), baked chicken, goulash and salad, pinto beans and cornbread, fish sandwiches, sloppy joes, spaghetti, chili, chicken legs, egg and cheese omelettes and biscuits, black bean soup, tuna noodle casserole and more! The menu varies each week.
The ERCC Billiards Room
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There is a required donation based on income, but it is very affordable for everyone. Come early and stay late. The Lunch Room is open from
ow about a relaxing game of pool or checkers? The Elk River Community Center Billiards Room always has someone there ready for a friendly game. There are several pool tables plus a checkers table.
Photo Credit: Phil Blackwell
Jimmy Huffman and Lynn Walker are always on hand to help at the Elk River Community Center
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Jimmy Huffman and BT Casto playing checkers
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Join locals Jack Straight, Josh Jarvis, Gary Estep, Gary Ramsey, Burford Casto and Jack Patton any weekday morning (“as soon as we can get out of the house” was one comment) until 1 pm, Monday through Friday. Beware--many of them are there practicing every day. There is a contribution box for donations to maintain the equipment.
Gary Estep and Gary Ramsey playing billiards; Photo Credit: Phil Blackwell
Photo Credit: Phil Blackwell
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The ERCC Friday Night Jam
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Dixie Highway with Cindy Bird in action
Women in the kitchen at the Friday Night Jam, L - R, Mary Kelley, Sylvia Casto, Audrey Smith, & Rhonda McClanahan
here is no reason to sit home on a Friday night. The Elk River Community Center is packed every Friday Night with their Friday Night Jam, featuring excellent local bands including Recycle and Bill Ross, Dixie Highway and Cindy Bird, Mark IV and Stephanie Moore, and Southern Cookin’ and Steve Mullins. Come listen to the music and two-step the night away! Admission is $5.00 and children 12 years of age and under are free. The doors open at 5:00 pm and delicious concessions are available. Also, the Thrift Store is open from 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm so you can take advantage of the great bargains.
Photo Credit: Phil Blackwell
The ERCC Thrift Shop
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f you are looking for a great bargain, The Elk River Community Thrift Shop has it! Buffy Reed Thomas manages the thrift shop, which is beautifully organized with an array of clothes and shoes, (men, women’s and childrens'), jewelry, purses, children’s items, glassware, and household items. The Thrift Shop is open weekdays from 10 am to 1 pm and on Friday night before the weekly Friday Night Jam from 5:30 pm to 8pm.Buffy welcomes donations of items in good condition. Clean out your closet, bag it up, and drop it off at the Thrift Center. Remember, giving is not just about making a donation - it's about making a difference.
The ERCC Businesses Photo Credit: Phil Blackwell
Photo Credit: Phil Blackwell
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lso located in the Community Center are the Kanawha County Ambulance Authority, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Department,Regional Family Resource Network, and the Disabled American Veterans Department of WV.
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A TREASURE TROVE OF MEMORIES The Museum of Elk River Communities is a wonderful destination that showcases our beautiful heritage.
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conversation often starts with, “remember when,” if you are talking with local residents. There is no better place to remember the good ole’ days on the Elk River than in the newly expanded Museum of Elk River Communities in Kanawha County.
it is a full-time, unpaid job, they are paid in full bringing back wonderful memories to the community. The museum’s roots came from a special group of residents originally known as the Elk River Historical Society which collected old local newspapers, photos, and other memorabilia. Some of the members included Edith and Ed Brewer, Raphael Cavender, Harold Dunbar, Fred Shamblin, Pauline Conners, Henry Young, Harry Lynn, Mary Pauley, Richard Duvall, and several others.
Volunteers Richard Bashlor, Mike Cunningham, Harry Lynn and Carolyn Pirnat help manage and display items in the Museum, located at the Elk Community Center at 1078 Main Street in Elkview, WV (the old Elkview Elementary School). The four volunteers remarked even though
When the Society needed a new location, they met with several other community members. Society member Harry Lynn suggested they form a museum covering all of Elk River. With volunteers and donations from many local residents, schools, and businesses, the Society’s 20-30 items has now expanded into two full rooms and thousands of Elk River treasures housed in what we all know today as the Museum of Elk River Communities.
Richard Bashlor and Carolyn Pirnat volunteering their time at the museum.
Photo Credit: Phil Blackwell
The first room of the museum is a collection of memories from Clendenin to Charleston, consisting of donations from yearbooks, photos, uniforms of Clendenin High and
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Photo Credit: Phil Blackwell
The museum showcases history that covers all the communities along Elk River. Bashlor said originally he and friends wanted to focus on items relating to the schools, but the donations have allowed them to expand to a true Elk River museum. “If you take your time and browse the many museum items, you are submerged in your heritage,” said Bashlor. It is a walk through our lives, our parents', our grandparents', and our great grandparents’ lives.
Elkview High Schools as well as Herbert Hoover High School, program books, and more. “If it is part of an Elk River memory, we love including it in the museum,” said volunteer Bashlor. “We are always looking for donations from local residents to display here,” he added. The newest room added to the museum is the Military Room and consists of uniforms and memorabilia from veterans, POWs, and first responders. The museum volunteers are seeking donations from fire departments, police departments and other first responders for the new room. When you walk in the doors of the museum, it is truly a walk down memory lane. Lately, class reunions have been having events at the Elk Community Center so that alumni can visit the Museum as part of their activities. High School letterman jackets greet you at the door as well as cheerleader uniforms, pom poms, majorette uniforms and Elkview High, Clendenin High, and Herbert Hoover High School yearbooks. It’s an awesome place to kick off class reunions. Bashlor said if anyone has any information on the whereabouts of the old bell from Clendenin and Elkview High Junior High Schools, please contact them at the museum. They would love to have it in the museum.
The Flood of 2016 destroyed so many keepsakes of local residents. The Elk River Museum has made copies of yearbooks and pictures for residents who lost everything. Pirnat, volunteer, said the Museum would like more representation, including more items from Clendenin, the drive-in theater, any yearbooks, and any first responder donations. Residents are encouraged to contact Richard Pirnat at (304) 965-6596 or Carolyn Pirnat at (304) 965-3991. Bashlor explained it’s a way to keep your memories alive rather than stored in the back of a closet. Photo Credit: Phil Blackwell
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If you would like to learn more about the history of the Elk River communities, the original Elk River Historical Society published three books on the history of the Elk River communities. At first they were going to simply write a book on the history of the Pinch area, but they expanded their stories to three volumes and included all of the Elk River communities. Volume One is currently out of print, but volumes two ($10) and three ($30) are available for purchase at the Museum. There are different stories in each of the volumes. The Museum also plans to publish a fourth volume in the near future.
Photo Credit: Phil Blackwell
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Just some of the military memorabilia on exhibit at the museum; Photo Credit: Phil Blackwell
The Museum is open every Thursday from 10 AM to 12 PM or by appointment. Residents are encouraged to visit the museum, help seek donations, and talk about history with the volunteers and other history buffs including Ron Myers, Jerry Morris, Sherry Harper, and DonTaylor.
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THE CLENDENIN KOONTZ GYM PACKS IN THE CROWDS Three recent events at the Koontz Gym (formerly the Clendenin Middle School gymnasium) in Clendenin attracted big crowds to the town. The Koontz Gym is owned and operated by 25045--A New Clendenin, Inc. Kay Summers, president of the organization, is excited to see the gym being used for the residents and for the Clendenin economy. “The goal of 25045--A New Clendenin, Inc. was to bring new opportunities for growth and community involvement,” she said. “It’s our dream come true!” Kay is excited to work with the organization and bring more events to the town of Clendenin in the future.
MMA Boxing Takes the Ring
The Elk River Rumble crowd packs the Koontz Gym
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he Elk River Rumble filled the gymnasium on January 26 for an exciting evening of boxing, kickboxing and MMA (Mixed Martial Arts). Over 500 people attended the event and Mike Sheppard, former professional fighter and event promoter, said they plan to have another event this fall. They are also looking for an outdoor venue for a summer event. Mike has been hosting boxing events for over 12 years and has competed for 25 years as a professional fighter until last year. He said the Elk River Rumble consisted of 16 fights, and most were locals within an hour’s drive of the event. “Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves and exhibited good sportsmanship,” he said. Rob Fletcher, owner and head trainer of Elk River Boxing Club of 5522 Elk River Road, North, at Falling Rock, said 9 of their fighters competed in the event that evening and they went 6 and 3. He said, “The event was a big boost for the Clendenin community. It was the first time an event was held somewhere
out of a big city like Charleston, Parkersburg, Clarksburg, etc., and it was extremely successful.” Rob said there was a lot of local talent and Clendenin has a good size gym and could handle a lot of competitors. He said the event has received a lot of positive feedback. Rob also stated that Elk River Boxing Club has a 20-foot professional ring, weight room and heavy bags to help fighters train. He said, “We have as much equipment as any gym in a big city. We teach boxing basics (footwork, punches, defense), work the heavy bags and do a lot of exercise.” The club offers classes in boxing, kickboxing, and Brazilian jiu jitsu and is open 4:30pm-7:30pm Monday through Thursday. For more information see Elk River Boxing Club on Facebook or visit the gym. Trae Stout won (left) won the DHP Super Middleweight Title. Pictured with Rob Fletcher of ER Boxing Club
Catching Muskie Fever
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ver 400 people from 7 states packed the Koontz Gym on February 2 for the annual Muskie Expo. There were 27 vendors from West Virginia and surrounding states who brought in an array of homemade muskie lures and muskie apparel including rods, reels, nets and clothing. One of the vendors even brought a new innovation which keeps bait from getting caught up in the weeds and debris along the river’s edges. Kathryn Rayne from Ravenswood, WV attended the Muskie Expo for the very first time this year with her boyfriend, Sam Southall, who is an avid Muskie fisherman and she said, “I thoroughly
ELK RIVER LIVING
Catching Muskie Fever, cont’d enjoyed myself! Plus, it is the start of a new adventure for me to learn how to muskie fish.” This is the sixth year the Elk River Muskie Club has hosted the expo. Dave Knight, Vice President of the Club , said, “The expo is a win win; it helps local bait makers be able to attend a oneday event without a lot of overhead costs and it is an awesome venue for the town and muskie fishermen.”
Muskie Expo 2019
The expo is a fundraiser that helps support the Club and also enables them to donate to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) through the Eric Workman Foundation. Eric was a member of the Club and an officer of the WV State Police and was killed in the line of duty in August 2012. The Foundation was created after an outpouring of support from the first memorial muskie fishing tournament held in Eric’s name in 2013. Dave said, “Eric had a passion for hunting and fishing and the Elk River Muskie Club is proud to support DNR river conservation through the Eric Workman Foundation.”
Dueling Dragon Team Capture High Point Plaque
Dueling Dragons Win High-Point Plaque
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he Shoshin Kai Tournament was held in February in the Koontz Gym with 8 teams and over 70 students competing. Dueling Dragon Martial Arts of 5228 Elk River Road, Elkview, WV, was excited to receive the plaque for receiving the most points at the tournament. Dueling Dragons had 24 competitors with 49 medals: 20 gold, 17 silver and 12 bronze. Nancy and Kevin Miller, both fourth-degree black belts, own Dueling Dragons which is a premiere martial arts school associated with Shoskin Kai Martial Arts under Soke Brent Bias. Recently, three students at the Dueling Dragon school were promoted to first-degree black belt, including Gary Bane, Lilly Clendenin, and Hannah Clendenin. The Dueling Dragon offers Karate and Iaido (Japanese Swords) classes. Karate is taught Monday and Thursday from 6:00pm-830pm. Iaido is taught on Tuesdays from 5:30pm-7:00pm. They also offer free self-defense and anti-bullying programs for qualified non-profit groups. Nancy and Kevin said they are excited about an upcoming conference on May 31-June 2, 2019, at Cedar Lakes in Ripley, WV where Coach Tokey Hill of the U. S. Olympic Karate Team will be teaching combat techniques and kata. For more information, see the Dueling Dragons Martial Arts on Facebook or telephone them at 304.548.6237.
Hannah Clendenin, Gary Baine and Lilly Clendenin receive their Black Belts
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ARCHERS ON TARGET Elkview Middle School Archery Team hosted the largest National Archery in The Schools (NASP) archery tournament in the State of West Virginia on February 15-16 at Marshall University’s Chris Cline Athletic Complex. 60 teams and over 1,000 archers from across the State of West Virginia competed for the top prize. The Elk River community was well represented with Bridge/ Clendenin Elementary, Elkview Middle School and Herbert Hoover High School all bringing home team awards. The Elkview Archery event is in its 9th year and has grown tremendously over the years which is why it is now being held at Marshall University. Next year’s 10th Anniversary Tournament looks to be bigger and better as Tournament Director and Elkview Archery Coach / Athletic Director Eddie Gray hopes to bring 1,500 students to the event. Elkview Middle School would like to thank Marshall University Athletic Director Mike Hamrick for his continued generosity and support as well as Marshall University Army ROTC for sponsoring this year’s tournament. If you would like to help sponsor next year’s team, you can email ElkviewArchery@gmail.com.
ND THE U O
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AR Archers compete at EMS Archery Tournament at Marshall University
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LOCAL COLLEGE STUDENTS ROCK GPAs Elk River living would like to recognize the following students who shared with us their honorary Dean’s or President’s list achievements from the Winter 2018 semester. Danielle Nicole Godbey, President’s List at Davis and Elkins College. She is the daughter of John Godbey of Procious and Kim and Bucky Jett of Walton. Katelyn Clendenin, Dean’s List at West Virginia University and a graduate with a BA in English. She is the daughter of Kevin and Tabitha Clendenin and Selina Clendenin of Clendenin. Ashley Hamrick, Dean’s List at Liberty University. Ashley is currently pursuing her Masters in Elementary Special Education. She is the daughter of Cindy and Terry Hamrick, and the granddaughter of Jane and Dale Hamrick of Elkview. Alena Harper, Dean’s List at Fairmont State University. She is the daughter of Melissa and Richard Harper of Elkview. ERL is proud of and welcomes your student’s college achievements. If you would like to share your info with ERL, email me at cyndi@elkriverliving.com.
ALL PLAY & NO WORK Kenny Payne is enjoying the retired life. He and his wife, Linda Burnside Payne, were enjoying Sutton Lake on a warm winter/spring day.
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READER’S SUBMISSION A young Barred Owl photographed along the hillside of New Hope Road, Elkview, WV Submitted by Tony Wayne Davis of Elkview
If you would like to submit a photo, work of art, short story, poem, knitwork - whatever inspires you - please reach out to us on Facebook or contact cyndi@elkriverliving.com
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ELK’S JOURNAL
GOLD AWARD PROJECT FOCUSES ON TRUTH ABOUT HUMAN TRAFFICKING Hello, my name is Cari.I am a local high school student who is in Girl Scout Troop #4847. I am currently working on my Girl Scout Gold Award, which is the highest award a Girl Scout can earn. The issue I have chosen to tackle is human trafficking. My project is titled Project Take Down Trafficking. The project is an awareness and advocacy campaign about human trafficking. So far, I have held an informational session at my school during lunch, and held a movie night and workshop after school. My plan is to continue to do similar events in the community, and hopefully reach even further.
This month’s reader submission is from Cari, a junior at Herbert Hoover High School and a member of Girl Scout Troop #4847, under the leadership of Angela Brown and Elizabeth (Beth) Brandt. Her article below is part of her Gold Award Project.
For starters, I would like to tell you a bit about what human trafficking really is. Human trafficking is a wide spread and often overlooked issue here in the United States, as well as all over the world. In fact, human trafficking is an issue that can impact anyone, even here on the Elk River. Anyone can be a victim of human trafficking, and human trafficking can mean many different things. Runaways are more likely to become a victim, but no matter a person’s age, race, or gender, they can still become a victim. My goal is to spread awareness and eventually advocate for victims. I would consider my project a success if even one person learns the truth about human trafficking. One of my main focuses is bringing to light misconceptions about human trafficking. Are you interested or want more information? #ProjectTakeDownTrafficking ProjectTakeDownTrafficking@gmail.com Also, check out the YouTube and Pinterest accounts for the project.
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