ELKRIVERLIVING.COM
VOLUME 01 | ISSUE 07 | JUN 2019 FREE
ELK RIVER LIVING Water Is Life - and Business Hudson Farms CSA
Pursuing His Passion
Around the Elk
June Elk River Hero
The idea that water means business is not new, but new people are taking advantage of it in new ways. Yak House Rentals is a shining example of new business development.
Team Ace Marches for Babies, new Bobber’s, Bridge-Clendenin Archers are headed to World Competition, EMS captures three championships, and a friendly face is back in town.
Learn how Hudson Farms is providing fresh, local, sustainably produced products to the Kanawha Valley region of West Virginia.
Chili and Slaw to Please Gabi Strickland of Blue Creek shares her delicious hot dog chili and her mother’s slaw recipes which are sure to please a crowd this summer.
There are some exciting changes going on at the chiropractic office of Dr. Peggy Kiser-Crouch. Elk River native, Dr. Jarred Newhouse, has joined the practice.
Elk Valley Christian Alumnus, Sam Hensley, celebrates his 40th anniversary of being cancer free with a donation to Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church who faced flood destruction.
ONE, TWO, THREE IN A ROW!
ELK RIVER LIVING
PROUD SPONSORS OF THE CLENDENIN HOMECOMING AND THE ROYAL PANCAKE BREAKFAST SATURDAY, JUNE 22 CLENDENIN FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH AUDITORIUM 500 VIRGINIA STREET, CLENDENIN, WV COME JOIN US FOR A GREAT TIME AND GREAT PANCAKES! FOR ALL YOUR BANKING NEEDS CALL OR VISIT US AT ONE OF OUR TWO AREA BRANCHES: CLENDENIN
ELKVIEW
545 SPENCER ROAD N 5087 ELK RIVER RD 304-548-7329 304-965-7730
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-542-7502
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M I C H A E L' S UNIQUE STYLES
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Michael Ryan OWNER/STYLIST
4636 PENNSYLVANIA AVE CHARLESTON, WV 25302 michaelsuniquestyles@gmail.com
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TABLE OF CONTENTS 18 Hudson Farms Shares The Goods In addition to the work on his own farm, Terry Hudson is dedicated to teaching and mentoring young farmers and individuals, both young and old, so they can make better food choices.
26 Water Is Life and Business
by Rick Ferris, Contributing Writer Students at UC are working to help our community develop a vision for how we can identify and leverage the resources right here in our community to aid in our comeback.
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Cover Story: One, Two, Three in a Row for Lady Huskies WVSSAC Class AA Softball State Championship captured again by the amazing Lady Huskies.
42 Making a Difference Back Home Dr. Jarred Newhouse, Elkview native, is someone who will treat you as a friend and not just as a patient. 06
Welcome Back to Elk River Living!
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Elk River Hero: Sam Hensley
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Our Valued Sponsors
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The Elk Reflects
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Events In the Valley
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This Month’s Reader Submission
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Chili & Slaw Recipe
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The Elk’s Journal
Hello & Welcome Back! The month of June has always represented several important events in my life. Of course, one is Father’s Day, and the others are my birthday, the end of school, the official first day of summer, pools open, and baseball games are in full swing. After The Flood of June 2016, however, there is an ache deep in my heart that returns in June. I remember helping brother Dave clean out all of the mud that covered his whole downstairs which was our homeplace. I remember being at a loss for words from the devastation everywhere I looked. Most of all,I remember a broken town pulling together to heal. This month I noticed a recurring theme of reaching out and supporting our neighbors in our articles. Contributing Writer Rick Ferris talks about new businesses springing up, investments coming in, enthusiasm being renewed, and Elk River never being more exciting. Terry Hudson of Hudson Farms talks about his passion for teaching others, young or old. The community joined hands despite a hometown tragedy and cheered on the Lady Huskies as they battled through the state Class AA championship games and emerged victorious. Not to mention this month’s Elk River Hero, Sam Hensley, who gave Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church a generous donation to alleviate their financial burden as a result of The Flood. Dad always said, “what doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger.” In honor of Father’s Day, I want to say “Dad, you are so right.” Elk River isn’t content to sit stagnant in the face of adversity. Instead, there is a bond between family and neighbors that is stronger than ever before. Whether it is in sports or in our everyday lives, Elk River pulls together, in good times and in bad. We indeed are Elk River Strong. Much love to all. Remember, there’s no place like home on the Elk River.
Cyndi Tawney Founder & Editor 304.546.9243 cyndi@elkriverliving.com
Editor In Chief /
Cyndi Tawney
Creative Director /
Josh Tawney
Operations Director /
Kenneth Tawney
E L K RIVER
Guest Photographers /
April Curry & Beth Strawn
Printer /
The Printing Press Charleston, WV
LIVING
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. On the cover: Lady Huskies celebrate third consecutive state championship win. photo credit: Beth Strawn
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!
Beth Strawn is featured in this month’s issue with her stunning HHHS Softball photography. Thank you, Beth. Find her at www.catchmeactionshots.com
We are so fortunate to have April Curry, of Photos by AC, as our Guest Photographer. April is an Elk River native and her talent speaks for itself.
ELK RIVER LIVING
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OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES ALL SEASONS SELF STORAGE 304.965.7988 allseasonsselfstoragewv.com
CROWN CATERING 1 Main Street, Clendenin 304.548.6999
GIOVANNI’S - CLENDENIN 304.548.7002 giovannispizzapower.com
ALLEN’S LAUNDROMAT 304.548.7100 9 Main St, Clendenin
EDEN BODY WORKS, INC. 102 Neville Rd, Elkview 304.965.5900
GOOD FAMILY PHARMACY Pinch and Mink Shoals Locations 304.935.4812/304.345.8600
ALLISON BURFORD, REALTOR PROPERTY ELITE 304.550.8236
ELK FAMILY DENTISTRY 304.965.6661 contact Joey Adkins, DDS
HAFER FUNERAL HOME 304.965.3331 / 304.965.3341 haferfuneralhome.net
BECKY’S PET PARLOR 304.951.9162 Rebecca Briles & Kaitlyn Truman
ELK RIVER AUTOMOTIVE 304.965.7501 contact Gary W. Pauley II
HEADHUNTERS STYLING CO. 304.343.2049 check them out on Facebook
BILL’S USED CARS Rt 119 Elk River Road 304.548.4727
ELK RIVER AUTO. SUPPLY 304.965.5312 contact Glenn Pauley
HOLSTEIN INSURANCE 304.965.9941 holsteininsuranceagencyinc.com
BLUE CREEK HEATING & COOLING 304.965.9148 contact Bill Ross or Roy Crist
ELK RIVER GET-A-WAY 16544 Elk River Rd., Clendenin 304.993.0006/304.941.4296
JEFF’S AUTO & TOWING 304.965.7525 22 Quick Rd, Pinch
BOWEN DENTAL Chas: 304.342.0146 / Clay: 304.587.7495 contact Stacy or Gary Bowen II
ELK VALLEY PHYSICAL THERAPY 304.965.7979 contact Andi Geary, MPT
JETT’S AUTO AND TOWING, LLC 681.230.2508 103 Cobb Loop, Clendenin
BRICKS AND BARRELS 1214 Smith St., Charleston 681.265.9222 and on Facebook
ELITE ROOFING 304.989.4792 www.eliteroofingwv.com
JETT’S CONSTRUCTION, LLC 304.565.7053 Newton, WV
CANTRELL’S FLORIST 304.548.7700 7484 Elk River Rd, Clendenin
FINGERS 2 TOES 304.541.6134 contact Jennifer Casto
JONES AUTO 304.965.6180 jonesautotruckrepair@gmail.com
CHRISTY CONLEY DESTINATION SPECIALIST christina.conley@crusieplanners.com 304.377.0803
FORD & SWEENEY 304.935.4801 51 Credes Landing, Elkview
JONES EXCAVATING 304.965.6180 jonesexcavatingofcharleston.com
GABBY’S SEWING & MORE 304.437.3739 gabbyssewingwv.com
JULIO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 304.548.4625 12 Main St, Clendenin
GINO’S PIZZA & SPAGHETTI HOUSE 304.965-7031 Order online at ginospizza.com
KNIGHTHORST 877.474.7332 www.knighthorst.com
CLENDENIN PHARMACY 304.548.5451 contact Bill or Lindsay Ore Matuszkiewicz CREDE TRACTOR 304.965.1666 contact William Crede
There’s no place like home! 8
KNIGHT INSURANCE 304.548.4726 knightinsurance@frontier.com
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Please
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 or visit us at elkriverliving.com MARA BOGGS ELLIS OLD COLONY REALTORS 304.541.7336/304.344.2581 maraellis.com MASTER CRAFTERS GIFT & PRIMITIVES SHOPPE 304.965.6222 Facebook: Master Crafters Gift & Primitive Shoppe MATICS FUNERAL HOME 304.548.6611 maticsfuneralhome@suddenlink.net MEADOWBROOK ACRES NURSING CENTER 877.474.7332 www.meadowbrookacres.net MICHAEL’S UNIQUE STYLES 304.965.3605 michaelsuniquestyles@gmail.com MITCH’S 24 HR TOWING 304.965.6646 contact Mitch Young MOLLOHAN AUTO BODY 304.437.2195 2026 Waters Edge Dr., Elkview MOMMA PAYNE’S DINER 304.543.9930 14 Main St, Clendenin MOSS TREE SERVICE LLC 304.965.8095 www.mosstreeservice.com MOUNTAINEER AUCTION 304.548.4056 contact Roger Mullins MT. PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH 304.965.7062 mpbcwv.org
MURDOCK’S AUTO REPAIR MURDOCK’S PRE-OWNED AUTOS 304.548.3255 murdockspreownedautosales.com
SMITH’S CARPET ONE SMITH’S FURNITURE & APPLIANCE 304.965.7111 & 304.965.7600 Big Chimney & Elkview, WV
ONE FOR THE BOOKS 304.552.3956 oneforthebooksllc.com
SMITH INSURANCE AGENCY 525 Railroad Ave., Elkview 304.935.2505
PAMALA’S GIFTS & TREASURES 304.548.7100 7 Main St. Clendenin POCA VALLEY BANK 304.965.7730 pocavalleybank.com RODNEY LOFTIS & SON 95 Casdorph Rd., Charleston 304.342.8200 and on Facebook ROGERS HARDWARE 304.965.1077 Contact Bill Rogers ROLLIN SMOKE 304.437.2643 www.rollinsmokebbqribs.com
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 SWOR INSURANCE AGENCY 1618 Bigley Ave., Charleston 8290 Elk River Rd. N, Clendenin
SEVENTH BOUTIQUE & BEAUTY BAR THOMAS HEALTH 202 7th Ave, South Charleston PHYSICIANS PARTNERS 304.746.7717 304.414-4THS (484) Thomashealth.org SHAFER’S BARBERSHOP TUDOR’S BISCUIT WORLD 304.654.0726 1083 Main Street Elkview Facebook.com/shafersbarbershop Open until 7 PM starting April 1 SHARI’S FAMILY HAIR CARE Xspec POWER 304.400.4945 304.746.1139 contact Shari Ball contact Emily Canterbury SLEEP INN YAK HOUSE HARDINGS FAMILY RESTAURANT 304.941.2229 800.216.0661 & 304.344.5044 yakhouserentals.com sleepinncharlestonwv.com
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Beck y’s Pet Parlor
Rebecca L. Briles & Kaitlyn M. Truman PROFESSIONAL DOG GROOMERS
304 951 9162 166 North Pinch Road Elkview, WV 25071
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june happenings 07
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EVENTS We would love to feature what matters to you, so please submit your upcoming events to:
FRIDAY NIGHT JAM ELK RIVER COMMUNITY CENTER 1078 MAIN ST. ELKVIEW, WV 25071 Feat. RECYCLE, BILL ROSS 304.965.3722 5PM Admission $5.00 - Children 12 & under free
cyndi@elkriverliving.com
FRIDAY NIGHT JAM ELK RIVER COMMUNITY CENTER 1078 MAIN ST. ELKVIEW, WV 25071 Feat. DIXIE HIGHWAY, CYNDI BIRD 304.965.3722 5PM Admission $5.00 - Children 12 & under free
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CLENDENIN HOMECOMING FESTIVAL 7 AM Elk River Bass Tournament 1 PM Gospel Sing, Main Street
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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 5pm Admission $5.00 - Children 12 & under free
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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 5pm Admission $5.00 - Children 12 & under free
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CLENDENIN HOMECOMING FESTIVAL 4:00 PM Main Street, Opening Ceremonies 6:00 PM Non Friction Band, Main Stage 8:00 PM Adam Calvert Concert 4-10 PM Carnival and Craft and Food Vendors Open 5:00 PM Royal Coronation
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CLENDENIN HOMECOMING FESTIVAL 8-10 AM Royal Pancake Breakfast, CFB Church 8:00 AM 5K Run/Walk8:00 PM Adam Calvert Concert 9 AM-10 PM Vendors 10-11 AM Registration for Cornhole/Horseshoe Tournaments (at Carnival) 10 AM-4 PM Big Homecoming River Float 12:00 Noon Clendenin Homecoming Parade (PVB-Maywood Ave) 1:00 PM Elk River Idol, Main Stage on Main Street 1:00 PM Classic Car Cruise 2-5 PM Horseshoe and Cornhole Tournaments 4PM Great Rubber Ducky Race; Main Street to Clendenin Bridge 4-10 PM Carnival 5 PM Elk River Idol Finals 7 PM The Band Steele and Mikele Buck and the Mikele Buck Band 10 PM Fireworks (over the town and river)
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CREDE TRACTOR SALES & SERVICE
4731 PENNSYLVANIA AVE BIG CHIMNEY
304.965.1666
CRE E U
304.542.4128
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Bill Ross Roy Crist
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WILLIAM CREDE
G & COO
ROAD SERVICE KEY LOCK-OUT SERVICING WEST VIRGINIA
NEW ONLINE MENU AT GIOVANNISPIZZAPOWER.COM
304.541.3892
for all your hvac needs
LICENSE & INSURED WV#055448
304.965.9148 MITCH YOUNG OWNER
MITCH’S 24 HR TOWING 100 FRAME ROAD ELKVIEW, WV 25071
304.965.6646
PIZZA POWER
Pamala's Gift & Treasures LLC Pamala Allen, Owner
235 ELK RIVER ROAD SOUTH CLENDENIN, WV
304.548.7100 7 Main Street Clendenin, WV 25045 mon. - sat. 10am - 6pm FIND US ON FACEBOOK!
548.7002
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GLENN PAULEY
AUTO PLUS PARTS STORE
E SUP P L Y TIV
ELK R I
AUTOM R O VE
5082 ELK RIVER ROAD ELKVIEW, WV 25O71
304.965.5312 • 304.965.8173 13
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SUMMER FAVORITES BY GABI
his month’s delicious recipes were submitted by Gabi Strickland. She and her husband, Gary, live at Blue Creek, WV and have three daughters, Ashton, Paelin and Lowenn. They both are Herbert Hoover alumni (Gabi 1993 and Gary 1992). Gabi has a Facebook page of recipes her family loves-you can follow her at Walker Mtn. Eats and enjoy all of her delicious recipes.
DIRECTIONS
Level: Easy
Total: 40 min Active: 20 min
Here’s What You’ll Need HOT DOG CHILI
MOM'S SLAW (MY VERSION)
1 lb ground chuck - boiled until brown and drained
1/2 of small head of cabbage 1 C mayo
1 sm onion - minced (or 2T dried minced onion)
3 T white vinegar
2 cloves garlic - minced
2 T lemon juice
1/2 C tomato sauce
3-4 T sugar
3/4 C Heinz ketchup
1 t salt
2 T chili powder (more/less depending on desired heat level)
Pepper to taste
1-2 T honey
2-3 t lime juice
1-2T brown sugar
1 t Worcestershire sauce
1 T French's yellow mustard
1 t Laury's Seasoning Salt
2-3 t lime juice
Salt/Pepper - to taste
1 T French's yellow mustard
1 t Worcestershire sauce 1 t Laury's Seasoning Salt Salt/Pepper - to taste
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Crumble ground chuck in a pot and cover with enough water to boil. Boil meat until browned, drain well and return meat to pot. Add all ingredients and allow to cook until onions are soft. Taste and add salt/pepper as needed. Serve on hot dogs. Leftovers may be frozen.
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Remove outer leaves and core from 1/2 of cabbage. Run cabbage pieces in a food processor or mini food processor to make fine bits. Mix other ingredients to make the slaw dressing and taste. Add more ingredients to get the flavor you prefer. Pour dressing over cabbage bits and toss. Keep refrigerated.
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14 MAIN STREET CLENDENIN, WV 25045
304.543.9930
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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 16
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HUDSON FARMS SHARES THE GOODS “The harder we work, the luckier we are,” says Terry Hudson, founder of Hudson Farms, LLC. In addition to working on the farm, Terry’s passion is teaching and mentoring young farmers. He travels extensively in our state, sharing his farming expertise with new farmers, schools, and community organizations.
Photo credit: April Curry
W
hen Terry Hudson bought the late Herb Thaxton, Sr. farm on Four Mile (off Coopers Creek Road) in 1994, he had a vision. Before he could even start, however, he was faced with clearing the property of debris. It took him 3-4 years to clean off the land before he could build his house. He was able to start growing crops in 2000. Hudson Farms has now been growing sustainably for over 19 years, using organic production practices.
Terry works with other area producers which makes this a multi-farm CSA. Bob and Lynnita Gregory of Berea Gardens in Minnora, WV also help provide produce for the CSA program. Members can elect to receive a half share which is four products each week or a full share which is seven products each week. The produce is available to members every Thursday, June through September. Additionally, the members receive farm news and recipes for preparing their fresh produce. Hudson Farms CSA has a great community of members and partners, including Bluegrass Kitchen and Starlings Coffee and Provisions, that help them successfully get their produce from their farm to your table.
Each year Terry has a college intern at the farm for the summer. He said the interns from the previous years all come back each year, even for only a week or whatever they can arrange. Terry credits the interns for many of the new innovations that have been implemented at Hudson Farms.
Photo credit: April Curry
Another year one of the college interns asked Terry about the possibility of installing a commercial kitchen on the farm. Once the kitchen was completed, Hudson Farm was able to offer a variety of classes to the public, including canning, fresh vegetable preparation, etc. Because there was a kitchen on the farm, another year an intern mentioned that Hudson Farms could offer Farm-to-Table dinners. The interns then built
For instance, one intern suggested that Terry start a community supported agriculture (CSA) program. Today, Hudson Farm’s CSA subscription program allows consumers of become members and receive a share of local, organically-produced vegetables in the Charleston area. Even though most of the produce is grown at Hudson Farms,
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One of Terry’s favorite projects was working with Chuck Talbott, West Virginia University Extension Agent in Putnam County. Chuck developed the learning criteria and Terry constructed the raised bed gardens. These gardens have been built at Pleasant Valley Elementary (Calhoun County), Birch River Elementary (Nicholas County), and Winfield Elementary (Putnam County). The children lay out their vegetable beds in square-foot gardens. Each class has a 32 square-foot, raised-bed garden and the children select what plants they want to plant. There are templates with holes in them for each vegetable. For example, if a student wanted to plant a tomato or pepper plant, there would only be one hole as opposed to carrot plants, which would be a 6-9 hole template. The kindergarten children also put pictures of the vegetable on plant sticks as opposed to their names in their garden areas.
Hudson Farms the outdoor deck where Hudson Farms has monthly dinners featuring a variety of local, guest chefs. In 2018 Hudson Farms offered private, RSVP-only dinners to 54 participants. Guests could arrive at the farm early to tour the gardens and dinner began at 5 PM. Hudson Farms also rents space for private events such as weddings, reunions, and birthdays. You can learn more about the CSA program, classes, and farm to table dinners on www. hudsonfarmswv.com and on Facebook/ Hudson Farms.
Terry said his newest project will be constructing a teaching garden in the City of Charleston, behind the park at Laidley Field on Dixie Street. There is a half-acre plot which will house a raised-bed garden. There will be a variety of classes on how to grow a raised bed garden, tree grafting, pollinator gardens, canning, etc. The WV Conservation District and the Capitol Conservation District are collaborating to fund this project.
Terry is currently building a greenhouse; in fact, he currently is working on his 195th greenhouse. He loves to teach so building greenhouses for schools and communities provides him with an opportunity to help kids all around West Virginia learn where their food comes from and how to grow their own food. He has also built greenhouses for individuals. Terry just completed a high tunnel on Rebecca Street on the Charleston West Side in conjunction with WV State University. He is also helping with the construction of a high tunnel with raised beds at Mary Ingles Elementary School on Campbells Creek. There
Hudson Farms’ mission is to educate the communities about what we do and to help consumers make informed choices. They invite the public to call them in advance ((304) 552-6557) and come out and see their farm. Terry said, “Educating individuals, both young and old, about where their food comes from and the nutritional value is my passion.” He says he concludes every one of his classes with “We find the harder we work, the luckier we are!”
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All photo credits: April Curry
Chef Chris Morris at his final Hudson Farms event; Photo credit: April Curry
are future plans to construct a high tunnel at Camp Virgil Tate, which will be funded by Capitol Conservation District where Terry is a Board Member.
Hudson Farms Mother's Day Brunch, featuring Guest Chef Chris Morris.
ELK RIVER LIVING
95 CASDORPH RD, CHARLESTON 304.342.8200
WEST VIRGINIA'S DEMOLITION EXPERTS
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE LADY HUSKIES! 22
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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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This month ERL gratefully honors Sam Hensley, son of Bob and Ann Hensley formerly of Elkview. Sam now lives in Bernardsville, NJ with his wife, Carol. His letter to Pastor Lee Swor of Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church will forever be known as an Elk River miracle.
“As I prepare to celebrate my 40th anniversary of being cured from cancer, I feel a huge debt of gratitude. In honor of those many members of Mt. Pleasant that helped me through my trial and in honor of my father and mother who themselves never quit praying for me, God has laid it on my heart to give back to the church that has blessed me and my family so much.� -Sam Hensley May 6, 2019 Dear Pastor Swor,
SAM AND CAROL HENSLEY
Aside from my Godly parents, the ministries of Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church have had the most significant impact on my Christian life. My introduction to Mt. Pleasant began as a camper at Pleasant Island under the direction of John Dugan, or Uncle John as we called him. When Mt. Pleasant decided to begin a Christian School, I enrolled the very first day it opened. I was so blessed to have teachers like Carolyn White who taught me Algebra and the sciences, most notably Chemistry. While I have attended college and graduate school since graduating from Elk Valley, I still consider Mrs. White as my best and most impactful teacher both on my Christian and professional life as the core principles and love for the educational process she taught me allowed me to excel throughout my academic career. Mrs. Dottie Melton also taught me typing, a skill I use every day. There were many other teachers at Elk Valley that had a
ELK RIVER LIVING
significant impact on my life but those two stand out. My junior high and high school years revolved around the trifecta of Mt. Pleasant-the church, the school and the island. I spent my summers as a counselor at Pleasant Island where Janet Hamrick constantly attended to my laryngitis as the camp nurse. I taught my very first Sunday School class with Johnny Archer Sr. and every Saturday morning Mike Judy would load Denny Payne and me into his car to do bus visitation. I would never really fullyappreciate his dedication and sacrifice until I became an adult and understood how busy life would be trying to catch up on weekends. There were many other members of Mt. Pleasant that served as role models to me like Roger Moles, Rick Perrine, Dale Melton, Jack Suttle, and Bobby Settle who hired me to do some construction work during the summers. Although I enjoyed it, I guess it never quite worked out for me, so I continued to pursue my career in business. I also had close relationships with numerous other members that had an impact on both my life and my parent’s lives including Carl and Ella Lipscomb, Bob and Sue Proctor, Ham and Sue Payne, Charlie and Pauline Stricker, Steve Kerns, Bill and Katie Tolley and Terry Keller who always greeted me with a smile. Without a question though, the most significant impact to my life while at Mt. Pleasant came in December 1979 when I heard those dreaded words from the doctor, I’m sorry but you have cancer and you quite likely have less than six months to live. How the church came together around me and my family is truly remarkable. The church began a 24-hour prayer chain, seven days a week asking God for a miracle in my life. Sada Douglas and Beverly Evans would donate countless hours attending to me in the hospital on their own time as I endured multiple operations and intensive chemotherapy. Charlotte Steed would send me humorous get-well cards every day to try to bring a smile to my face at a time when smiles were very hard to come by. She has no idea the impact those cards had on me. God answered the prayers of the church and my parents who refused to stop believing that God was going to heal me and do something special in my life and I was pronounced cancer free in the summer of 1980. I would continue to take chemotherapy for two years and Cora Ann Meadows would meet me early in the morning on the island in the summers to take my blood for testing, so I didn’t have to leave the camp. We would laugh for years afterwards remembering the one time I stood barefoot in the mud holding an umbrella and a flashlight as she took several vials of blood one early morning in the pouring rain. There were many others from Mt. Pleasant that had an impact on my life like my classmates Eddie and Debbie Johnson, Scott Connor, Cindy Dent and Carol Ising to name a few and I apologize to all the wonderful people I have not mentioned. In short, I believe I owe my life to the church for the prayers and support the membership gave me as I battled cancer. As I prepare to celebrate my 40th anniversary of being cured from cancer, I feel a huge debt of gratitude. Similar to my trial with cancer, Mt. Pleasant went through a trial of its own a few years ago as the church was devastated by a terrible flood. Once again, the church responded and came together to rebuild the tremendous sanctuary you have today but in so doing was forced to incur a substantial debt burden that added to the debt burden you had already incurred to build the new school. In honor of those many members of Mt. Pleasant that helped me through my trial and in honor of my father and mother who themselves never quit praying for me, God has laid it on my heart to give back to the church that has blessed me and my family so much. Today I have wired $1,200,000 to Mt. Pleasant’s account at Poca Valley Bank to pay off all of the outstanding debt of the church in order to free the church up to continue to devote more of its resources to carrying out the ministries to its community and around the world. May God bless you as you continue to impact the lives of others and make a positive difference in this world. Sincerely, Sam Hensley
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WATER IS LIFE - AND BUSINESS By Rick Ferris, Contributing Writer University of Charleston, MBA Program Director, School of Business and Leadership Rick is an outdoorsman, fisherman, and river enthusiast who teaches business management and marketing at a regional university. He enjoys combining his passions and profession by writing about local and regional outdoor economic development.
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or those who live along the Elk River, and those who visit often, the saying “water if life” is something that can easily be related to. Our river has given to us and our river has taken from us. Revitalization efforts are ongoing after the devastating floods of 2016. The idea that water means business is not new, but new people are taking advantage of it in new ways. Businesses continue to reopen and resituate, and some new opportunities are coming to fruition. Yak House Rentals, a new kayak rental business, and soon to be Bed and Breakfast, located at 403 Elk River Ave., West, is one shining example of new business development in Clendenin.
Dave Knight, executive board member of 25045 A New Clendenin, vice president of the Muskie Club, town councilman, businessman, and
entrepreneur has leveraged his enthusiasm for the Elk River and Clendenin into a thriving kayak rental business with more to come. Yak House Rentals opened on July 1st of last year and started renting kayaks to paying customers, most of whom came from out of the area to experience our river. The Yak House rents single user kayaks, tandems, where two boaters ride together, and fishing kayaks to people who want to experience our beautiful river and do not have their own river transportation. When talking about the Yak House Dave said, “Last year was kind of a ‘soft launch’ as we worked out the details of how we were going to deliver our services. This year we anticipate bigger crowds, more rental days, and a bunch more total rentals”. With recent additions to the fleet, Yak House Rentals can accommodate groups up to 25. But Dave isn’t content to just
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For the past year development of the property at 403 Elk River Ave, West has been underway turning a once flooded property into a combination of services designed to meet the needs and interests of those using the Elk River to rest and recreate. The Yak House Bed and Breakfast will serve as a small, bed-andbreakfast-style lodging facility, accommodating up to eight guests, with private bedrooms on the second floor and a small, quick-service food parlor and grab-and-go on the ground floor. Dave said, “We envision serving out-oftown kayakers with a place to stay after a day on the river that provides easy access to the restaurants and the developing nightlife of our beautiful little town.� The ground floor will house a small food business that serves pizza, hotdogs, ice-cream and other snacks for famished river goers and other people in
Hafer
Dave Knight
Rick Ferris
float along! Next up: The Yak House Bed and Breakfast.
Myers Chapel
ELK RIVER LIVING
the area. It will also serve as a general store providing accessories to kayakers who forgot to bring a cooler or dry box to keep their phones from getting wet. The Yak House and other emerging businesses in our area are driving a community renaissance of sorts. After being devastated by the flood, many wondered if we would ever recover. The Clendenin Branch of the Kanawha County Public Library is back, Cabin Creek Health brings more than 3000 people per month to town, and Nikki and Matt Holbert, owners of Bricks and Barrels restaurant in Charleston, purchased the old Farmers and Citizens Bank building and will open the first of eight new Air B and B bedrooms upstairs in the near future.. Also, the Holberts plan to develop a brewery on the first floor and perhaps an interim business. David Gallian has also opened an Air B and B on Maywood Avenue. Momma Payne's Diner, Crown Catering and Sunday Buffet and Giovanni's Pizza are back in full swing, plus new local eateries include Julio's Mexican restaurant, Bobber's, The Cupboard LLC, Savor the Flavor Bakery, and FrostBite Dairy Bar. Tudor's Biscuit World, which was formerly located in Clendenin, has opened a new restaurant in Elkview. Also, the town of Clendenin and the local churches from Elkview to Clendenin, which all were devastated from the floodwaters, are back. Spencer's Hardware has opened in Clendenin and many of the Crossings Mall businesses (both old and new) are again open and thriving, as well as the Elkview Smith's Super Value and other businesses at the Smith's Plaza. Three years later the community shows marked signs of revitalization with businesses springing up and economic partnerships working to fuel our continued comeback. One such partnership is with the University of Charleston’s (UC) MBA program. Students on the experiential learning track are working to assist
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our community in identifying its residential, commercial, and recreational assets and to develop comprehensive community vision concerning who we are, where we are going, and what we want to be. Governor Jim Justice just announced State plans to complete a major rail trail utilizing 72 miles of existing rail lines in Clay and Kanawha counties. These rail lines will either be repurposed for recreational activities involving the existing rail lines or converted into a trail for walking, hiking, biking, and more. Clendenin will serve as a trail head. This will expand and diversify the people visiting the area coming here to play and staying to shop and eat.
Rails to trails is just one example of an asset that has not been used as effectively in our area as it has in others. Clay County has developed its rail project into a major regional attraction. Students at UC are working to help our community develop a vision for how we can identify and leverage the resources right here in our community to aid in our comeback. The Yak House is an anchor business for outdoor recreation that is drawing people into Clendenin. Other outdoor recreational opportunities in the area, like new river access points, and rail trail support services, such as bike rentals, could expand and diversify the people visiting the area. John Finlayson, Professor of Experiential Learning at UC said, “At UC we are working to support these efforts by focusing our students’ intellectual curiosity on these opportunities”. There is a lot of energy along the Elk River. Businesses are springing up, investments are coming in, enthusiasm is being renewed, and Elk River Living has never been more exciting.
ELK RIVER LIVING
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ONE, TWO, THREE IN A ROW! I’m just so proud of them. The things they have been able to accomplish with all the distractions, shows what focused & talented athletes they are... I am always overwhelmed by the amount of community support our program receives. The sea of red & blue at the state tournament, at Roni’s after & lining the parade route always brings a smile to my face. Anywhere we travel, feels like a home game. - Head Coach Missy Anderson Smith
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lk River Girl Power captures the winning spirit of the Herbert Hoover High School Softball Team. This year was their third year in a row returning to the State Championships after capturing the WVSSAC Class AA Regional 2 Sectional and Regional Championship titles. They again played their hearts out and captured their third consecutive State WVSSAC Class AA championship title. This makes the fourth state championship win for the Lady Huskies who also took the state title in 2014.
The Lady Huskies had a grand send-off on Tuesday, May 21, when they left for the state tournament at Jackson Memorial Park in Vienna. The Elk River community lined up along the highway from the Elkview four-way stop to the interstate and waved and honked horns as the bus proceeded toward the entrance ramp. It was truly an Elk River proud moment.
Video Productions of Charleston, an internet broadcast company specializing in streaming live events, broadcasted the games so that family and friends at home could follow the games and cheer on the team. On Wednesday, May 22, The Lady Huskies won their first game in the doubleelimination championship tournament against Independence 1-0 in 9 innings. Caroline Woody scored the winning run on a hit by senior Taylor Carpenter to capture the win. Then the Hoover girls faced Petersburg in the second game and won 3-0. On Thursday, May 23, Delani Buckner and teammates returned to the field and soundly defeated Petersburg 5-1 to clinch the victory and the state championship title. Buckner’s pitching was on target and she struck out 13 batters in the game. Missy Anderson Smith, Head Coach,
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and the Lady Huskies ended the season with a final record of 35-1. They only allowed more than two runs in a game twice this season.
All photo credits: Beth Strawn
The game victories don’t tell the whole story of this year’s championship series. Jamanda Rollyson, the assistant coach, tragically lost her brother that week and was at the funeral on the last game day. The team and the community were all heart broken. One of the community Facebook posts said “Jamanda, this one's for you.” In true Huskie spirit, the Lady Huskies rallied despite their grief and displayed extraordinary strength and focus for the win. Junior pitcher/infielder Delani Buckner was named All-Kanawha Valley co-player of the year along with Hurricane’s Caiti Mathes. Buckner has a .506 batting average and boasts nine doubles plus a pair of home runs this season. Senior Lady Huskies include Rebekah Woody, Megan Seafler, and Taylor Carpenter.
All photo credits: Beth Strawn
ELK RIVER LIVING
All photo credits: Beth Strawn
ELK RIVER LIVING
In Memory of Jason “Jake” Matthew Rollyson Written by Nancy Kennedy
This day will be difficult and the days after even harder for our community. There is no rule book for grief and no two people grieve alike. Grief is an individual journey on one’s own time. When the journey begins, there is no reason to check the weather. Our tears will be the raindrops of emotion that fall from the storm we carry inside. We have been left with a bag of brokenness. We will never leave home without it and some days it will be easier to carry than others. Every once in awhile the sun will shine and with it will come the feeling of hope and resolve. On those days, we may dump our bag of brokenness, only to find, we have no idea what to make of it because the most important part is missing. We will have no choice but to pick up our bag of
brokenness and start again. As time passes, we will think only of that missing piece. It won’t be long and our bag of brokenness will become lighter with the realization of why God makes us in different shapes. Only our friend can fit the shape of the hole in our hearts. Our loss will be our loss forever. We will never be the same as we were before our loss, but we will be ever so much better for having someone so great to lose. We will never know when our grief journey will end, but we will endure. It will feel like a broken foot that doesn’t heal perfectly and we will learn to walk with a limp. Please pray for our community. Jake Rollyson was a different shape to many people, but we all share that enormous hole in our hearts.
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THE
ELK REFLECTS
THE OLD COOPERS CREEK BRIDGE
P
at Copen Carnell of Big Chimney shared these photographs of the old Coopers Creek Bridge (between Smith's Super Value and Hardee's Restaurant in Big Chimney) around 1955-1956. The bridge was hit by a coal truck which caused the bridge to collapse, truck and all, into the water. The driver survived the impact. A temporary bridge had to be be built across the old railroad trestle which paralleled the collapsed bridge while a new bridge was being constructed.
ERL would also like to feature any of your Elk River memories as well. Go to elkriverliving.com and select Reader’s Submission, Elk’s Journal, to submit your story.
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Seated L to R: Asia Means, Aiden Pozzi, Carli Monk, Maci Underwood, Rylee Crouch; Kneeling L to R: Taylor Waychoff, Dana Stewart, Mykell Taylor, Kyleigh Elmore, Sarah Miller, Isaac Harper, Allie Allen, Josiah Rouse; and Standing L to R: Coach Carol Arthur, Ryan Chandler, Austin Randolph, Alexis Swiney, Lilli Slater, Malita Holt, Makayla Clark-Withrow, Hallie Griffith, Damion Romine, Wayne Jack, Ryan Gandee, Coach Lori Monk
THE ARROWS KEEP FLYING!
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he Bridge-Clendenin Archers are on a winning streak! They shot at the National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) Eastern Nationals on May 11th which was held at the Kentucky Fairs and Exposition Center in Louisville, KY. Their goal was to shoot a team score of 3000 or higher and place in the top 25 percent of the nation. Coach Lori Monk said, “We knew with 14,946 archers and 200 elementary teams from 32 different states all taking part in this tournament, that competition was going to be tough! We still came determined and ready to compete.” At the end of the day the archers met and exceeded both of their goals! Their team score was 3023 which put them in 44th place out of 200 elementary teams and in the top 22 percent of the nation. The score was record breaking for BridgeClendenin Elementary as this was the first time they had a team shoot 3000 or above since the program began at Clendenin Elementary back in 2010. Also, Lilli Slater, a fifth grader, shot 2800 and placed 20th out of 1,940 elementary girls. The archers are now heading to the NASP
Championship Tournament (formerly called NASP Worlds) which is being held in Nashville, TN on July 25-27. The team has already set new goals for this tournament and is anxious to show how far they can go. Coach Monk said, “We are hoping that all 23 of our archers who shot at Nationals are able to go with us.” It is a huge expense on the school and parents, but some generous sponsors have helped cover the team’s tournament fees thus far. Donations can be made this summer by contacting Coach Lori Monk at 304-541-0796. Monk explained that they are now trying to help offset the costs to the archers for the trip down and back to Nashville. The coaches, archers, and their parents are thankful for the sponsors who have helped them, including State Equipment, Inc., Central Glass Co., David and Carolyn Hall, Jill Vigliotti, Melissa Huffman, Impact Pix and Graphics, Bettie Kee, April Kearns, Gibson Family Dentistry, Ore's Pharmacy, Poca Valley Bank, Sug and Danny Sams, Gary Bledsoe, and local area churches.
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Recreational Equipment rentals
What we do Equipment Rental & Shuttle Services along Elk River from Clay to Clendenin including King Shoals, Queen Shoals and Clendenin Public River Access Points.
What we offer At Elk River Get-A-Way, we want to help you plan your next adventure! We offer packages designed to get you, your friends and family out on the beautiful scenic Elk River. Our rentals include kayaks, canoes, party barges, inner-tubes & much more! Visit our website or give us a call for rates, package info, discount offers and memberships!
find adventure, call us today! 304.993.0006 -OR304.941.4296
Equipment Rental such as: - Adult & Youth Kayaks - Canoes - Five Seat Paddle Boats w/canopy - Floating Islands, tubes & tandems - Sit-on Kayaks & Fishing Kayaks - VIP access to our Elk River Get-A-Way Activities Park
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The Scenic Waters of the Elk River are Considered a Class I Challenge Many Rest Stops & Small Beaches FREE parking at Restaurant on site Commemorative apparel available by Coop’s Custom T-shirts & Designs, located at the ERG headquarters.
ELK RIVER LIVING
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CONGRATULATIONS TO HHHS SENIORS & THE LADY HUSKIES! from
GLENN SUMMERS, SR. FAMILIES: GLENN & KAY, CARRIE, TREVOR, LAUREN, ELIZABETH & CAROLINE GLENN, SUZANNE, TATUM & HARPER
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Good Food and Good Times at Bobbers If you haven’t tried the menu at the new Bobbers in Clendenin, you are missing a treat! Michelle and Nick Meadows opened their business on 12 Maywood Avenue in March. They serve food until whatever time they close each day, plus they offer to-go orders. Nick previously was a cook at The Greenbrier. Michelle said he always wanted to have his own restaurant. “For Bobbers, he came up with some good dishes with fresh ingredients, including his homemade cheese sauce.” Ever popular are their chicken bobbers, cheeseburger eggrolls, soft pretzels, and hot ham and cheese sandwiches. The crowd favorite is the deep fried oreos. Bobbers has two new, regulation pool tables and they have a pool tournament every Thursday at 6:30 PM. On Saturday evening, Bill Lanham of Dynamite Entertainment has karaoke starting at 9:00 PM. Also, they have an iTunes jukebox where customers can play or download songs from the app. Michelle said, “There is always something good happening at Bobbers!” In addition to their 25 beer selections, including domestic, import, specialty beers and beer cocktails, Bobbers has daily specials advertised on Facebook for dine-in or pick-up. On weekends, they have security to ensure a safe and enjoyable environment.
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T
MAKING A DIFFERENCE BACK HOME
here is an exciting change happening at the chiropractic office of Dr. Peggy Kiser-Crouch. Elk River native, Dr. Jarred Newhouse, has joined the practice. According to Dr. Kiser-Crouch, Dr. Newhouse is not only a great adjuster whose style and personality are very similar to hers, but he is also someone who will treat you as a friend and not just as a patient. He is certified in Active Release Techniques (ART) and Dr. Kiser-Crouch said, “He will care for our patients in the same manner as I always have.”
Jarred Newhouse graduated from Capital High School in 2011. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science with a concentration in Exercise Physiology from Marshall University in 2015. He then earned his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa in February 2019. Following graduation 42
from chiropractic school, he began working as an associate chiropractor with Dr. Peggy Kiser-Crouch located at 308 Patrick Street Plaza, Charleston. Dr. Newhouse had a goal of becoming a chiropractor from a young age. While playing soccer and running track in middle school, he had recurring hip issues. Following his experience with chiropractors, he decided that was what he wanted to do. He is married to Sarah, who is a registered nurse, and they have a son Jaxson. They share their home with three cats and a dog. His parents are Andy (HHHS 1980) and Cyndi Newhouse, and grandfather Hughie Newhouse (Elkview High School graduate). For can on or
more information or an appointment, you call 304-344-9077. You can also “like” them Facebook “Peggy Kiser-Crouch, DC, PLLC” visit their website www.kiser-crouch.com.
Dr. Peggy Kiser-Crouch, Dr. Jarred Newhouse and staff
ELK RIVER LIVING
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ACE Supporters
ELK
AR
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Ace Underwood proudly marched with family and fans on TEAM ACE & FANS in the March of Dimes, March For Babies event on April 28, 2019, at our state Capitol. He was born premature at 31 weeks, weighing 4.1 pounds and spent 21 days in the NICU. Ace is now 3 years old is and is proof that miracles happen. He is the son of Russell and Andrea Underwood and the grandson of Kenny and Linda Payne of Clendenin. The March for Babies raises funds to help moms and babies who are born too soon to have healthier, brighter futures. Andrea and Russ are extremely thankful to everyone who donated to TEAM ACE & FANS to support Ace and all of the premature babies and their families.
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ELK RIVER LIVING
Triple Championship Teams at EMS Three county championship sports this year! Elkview Middle School (EMS) softball, football, and volleyball teams all captured County Champion titles and were recognized at the State Capitol by Delegate Dean Jeffries on May 22, 2019. The EMS Volleyball team finished its regular season and was tournament champion with a final record of 16-0. The EMS softball team finished its season 16-0 and was also tournament champion. The EMS football team had a record of 7-1 and was county co-champions with East Bank, DuPont, and Stonewall Middle Schools. Additionally, both the EMS boys and girls golf teams were county tournament runner ups. Golfer Chloe Painter was third overall in the county for girls and Sam Phillips was county champion for the boys. In EMS boys track, John Duvall set the the school and the county track record in the 3200 meter run (2 mile).
EMS County Co-Champions, 7-1
Congratulations to an amazing group of athletes at Elkview Middle School!
EMS Volleyball Tournament Champions, 16-0
EMS Softball Tournament Champions, 16-0
ELK
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CLASSIC STEEL HOT ROD ASSOCIATION Charles Stricker, President 304.543.3825 304.965.2462 souflowers@aol.com 5106 Elk River Rd Elkview
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ELK RIVER LIVING
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ELK RIVER LIVING
Almost Heaven Weekend Jennifer McLaughlin-Kay and her husband, Joey Kay, were home for a visit at her parent’s house in Pinch. They are travel nurses currently living in Kearney, Nebraska. They came in to visit family and friends. Jennifer is from Pinch and her husband, Joey, is from Rand. Her parents are Larry and Donna McLaughlin of Pinch.
Elk River Grateful, Thankful, and Blessed It is so nice to see this smiling face around Clendenin again! Nancy Kennedy spent eight weeks in the hospital and was on a ventilator for over thirty days. We love this picture, especially in front of a stack of blueberry pancakes from Momma Payne’s Diner. Winning combo!
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READER’S SUBMISSION
Wild Honeysuckle Flowers. Photographs were taken in the Blue Creek area Diana Melton-Davis Elkview, WV
If you would like to submit a photo, work of art, short story, poem, knitwork - whatever inspires you - please reach out to us at elkriverliving.com or contact cyndi@elkriverliving.com
ELK RIVER LIVING
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Happy Hour Daily, 4-7pm $1 off Craft Beer & Wine Food Features
ELK RIVER LIVING
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THE
ELK RIVER LIVING
ELK’S JOURNAL THE DAYS OF OUR LIVES BY JULIET RHODES LYNCH
This month’s submission is from Unique Writings by Juliet Rhodes Lynch. She and her husband, Ralph, live at Pinch, WV and part-time in their home in Lewisburg. Many locals have read and enjoyed her writings, formerly in the Clendenin town newspapers. She shared this writing with ERL in honor of her dad, Raymond D. (Dusty) Rhodes, for Father’s Day.
Look at the ocean and look and see, what will our lives be. The aimless ages of the peoples’ pleas. I took a walk by the ocean and looked back at me. I came to the conclusion I was lost at sea.The sea waves flow with a foamy spray that flows upon the sand, and pulls it, with all rapid decay. Cleanse the harbor of your soul and place the conch shell to your ear—hear the ocean’s waves call you to a place beyond your pleas. Homeward bound in saturated glee, bend down on bended knee. The day that comes and you find yourself walking at your favorite beach with your Dad, and listening to his words. As an older teenager and realizing you are in a place, that years later you will look back on, in your older years, and wish you could remember every word he said. I am 79 years old now. I have lived a very unusual life with many twists and turns and surprises. A life filled with things I wish my Dad could have seen and experienced along with me, and the people in my life that were like the waves of the ocean, in and out for a season! Like the sands of time in an hourglass—slowness, and as it reached closer and closer to the age of his passing, I look back and realize age is not important, but a journey of learning. My father died at the age of 77 and he would be 114 if he were living now.
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ELK RIVER LIVING
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