Elk River Living Magazine, February 2021

VOLUME 03 | ISSUE 02 | FEB 2021 FREE

ELK RIVER LIVING Winter Blues Be Gone Elk River Floral LLC offers photography and basketweaving classes. Don't be blue!

Learn something new!

Veteran Gale Brown WWII Veteran Gale Brown, age 95, shared his journey with ERL. His life is truly an inspiration to others.

Something to Crow About The Red Rooster Cafe is now open with an awesome menu plus their All You Can Eat Chicken on Sundays!

THE BLESSINGS BOX Alexa Allen uses her crownwinning platform to give back to her hometown

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

29 Crowing About a

New ER Business The Red Rooster Cafe, owned by sisters Jo Barton and Terry Thomas, joins Elk River businesses with dine-in, pick up, and drive through options.

13

Feature Story Clendenin's Blessings Box Alexa Allen, reigning Miss Infinity 2021 and former Ms. Metro Valley, WVUS 2020, raises awareness to provide much needed items to her hometown of Clendenin. She is a blessing to her community.

Our Proud Sponsors

20

Elk’s Cookbook: A Valentine’s Day Menu

25

Elk Reflects: Clendenin History on Display

30

The Elk’s Hero: Veteran Gale Brown

45

The Elk’s Journal: L. D. McDonnell

38

Hanging Up Her Shears Connie Hamilton Barnhouse retires after 25 years of owning Scissors Salon. "It was hard to leave the shop, but I am so happy The Scissors Salon will continue to serve the ER community."

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

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5

Hello & Welcome Back!

J

ust like that, it is February, commonly aglow with Valentine’s Day hearts and love! I can’t tell you how much I loved talking with our Elk River Hero, veteran Gale Brown, so we could share his story of compassion and strength. His words reminded me that having the fortitude to pick up the pieces, dust yourself off, and move on to better things is something we all need to embrace. Also, it was such a pleasure to talk with Alexa Allen, former Ms. WVUS Metro and reigning Miss Innity 2021, who is dedicated to placing Blessing Boxes in her community to help others. She is a true blessing.

It is important that we recognize and say thank you to those individuals who are there for us during tough times. Life is not always easy and does not always go our way. Sometimes it seems like an uphill battle. I remember my dad’s old saying, “the sun doesn’t shine on the same dog’s butt all the time” (paraphrased for journalistic etiquette) which in my youth, I did not understand. Like everything else in life, you grow up and realize your parents were wise beyond their years.

America could learn a lot from our Elk River community. Our spirit is strong and we celebrate what denes and inspires us. We join arms, support one another, and focus on what we can do both individually and together to make our home a better place. ERL takes great pride in sharing those stories with you each month. I am thankful for being raised here on the River, where without a doubt, we are Elk River proud.

Cyndi Knight Tawney Founder & Editor 304.546.9243 cyndi@elkriverliving.com

FEBRUARY 2021

Remember, there’s no place like home...on the Elk River.

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Editor In Chief /

Cyndi Tawney

Creative Director /

Josh Tawney

Operations Director /

Ken Tawney

E L K RIVER

Guest Photographers /

Joe Hoover, April Curry

Printer /

The Printing Press Charleston, WV

LIVING

Elkk Riv River ver L Livin Living is published monthly by CJT Publishing, LLC, Elkview, West Virginia 25071. rights Alll righ hts a are rreserved. All contents are copyrighted by CJT Publishing, LLC; reproduction in whole wh hole or p part without written permission from CJT Publishing, LLC is epxressly forbidden and an d punishable pu unish hab by law.

Elkk Riv River ver L Living iving is not responsible for unsolicited materials. All opinions expressed within Elk Riv ver L Livin ngg be River Living belong to the feature’s author and are not necessarily the opinions of the publishers of CJT Pub blish Publishing, LLC employees.

River Living Elkk Riv ver L iving and CJT Publishing, LLC reserve the right to refuse any idea, material or subject matter. ma atterr.

Th roug ghou ut this th issue, trademarked names are used. Rather than denoting a trademark symbol Throughout in ever ry oc ccur every occurrence of a trademarked name, Elk River Living uses the names in an editorial fas shion n, with w no n infringement. All trademarked names are still fully protected, and anyone fashion, wh ho us ses tthem without permission will be prosecuted. who uses

On n the e cov cover: ver: The Blessings Box was erected by Alexa Allen, Miss Innity 2021, former Ms. Metro Val lley, WVUS WVU US 2 Valley, 2020. It is located in front of the Clendenin Town Hall. Photo by Alexa Allen.

This month Joe Hoover and April Curry are contributing photographers to Elk River Living Magazine. We are thankful for their talent and love for the Elk River community. Joe is owner of Photography by Joe Hoover, and April Curry, is the owner of Photos by AC.

Joe Hoover

April Curry

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Th This his m maga magazine azine depends on our advertising partners! Production, printing and mailing costs are off ffset sset by thee par participation of our valued local businesses. It is how we provide this service at no charge to yyou. Plea ase ttake the time to review our Sponsors Page, and if you are in need of a product or service Please the ey pr rovid de, w they provide, we ask that you give them a shot at earning your business. And let them know you saw their River Living! the eir ad d in Elk R

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ELK RIVER LIVING

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OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES - CLENDENIN ELKGIOVANNI’S VALLEY PHYSICAL THERAPY 304.548.7002 304.965.7979 giovannispizzapower.com contact Andi Geary, MPT

ANR Construction ALLEN’S LAUNDROMAT Randy Young, Jr. and Andrew Young 304.548.7100 304.741.0377/304.546.6510 9 Main St, Clendenin April Curry, Xyngular ALLISON BURFORD, REALTOR Distributor PROPERTY ELITE 304.552.3965 304.550.8236 oneforthebooksllc@gmail.com BECKY’S PET PARLOR BECKY’S PET PARLOR 304.951.9162 304.951.9162 Rebecca Briles Kaitlyn Truman Rebecca Briles && Kaitlyn Truman

CROWN CATERING DEAN JEFFRIES, STATE FARM 1 Main Street, Clendenin 304.965.7024 304.548.6999 85 Credes Landing, Elkview BODYB.WORKS, INC. DDS DR.EDEN ANGELA ARMSTEAD, 102Pennsylvania Neville Rd, Elkview 3414 Ave. 304.965.5900 304.343.2151

GOOD FAMILY PHARMACY ELITE ROOFING Pinch and Mink Shoals Locations 304.989.4792 304.935.4812/304.345.8600 www.eliteroofingwv.com

ELK FAMILY DENTISTRY EDENS BODY WORKS, INC. 304.965.6661 102 Neville Rd, Elkview contact Joey Adkins, DDS 304.965.5900

FUNERAL HOME E.L.HAFER ROBINSON ENGINEERING 304.965.3331 / 304.965.3341 5088 Washington St W, Charleston haferfuneralhome.net 304.776.7473 elrobinsonengineering.com HEADHUNTERS STYLING CO.

BILL’S USED CARS BIG CHIMNEY BAPTIST CHURCH Rt 119 River 4626 Elk Elk Shore Dr.,Road Charleston 304.548.4727 BILL’S USED CARS CREEK & COOLING RtBLUE 119 Elk RiverHEATING Road 304.548.4727 304.965.9148 contact Bill HEATING Ross or Roy BLUE CREEK & Crist COOLING 304.965.9148 BOWEN DENTAL contact Ross or Roy Crist304.587.7495 Chas: Bill 304.342.0146 / Clay: contact Stacy or Gary Bowen II BOWEN DENTAL Chas: 304.342.0146 / Clay: 304.587.7495 BRICKS AND BARRELS contact Stacy or Gary Bowen II 1214 Smith St., Charleston

ELK RIVER AUTO. SUPPLY Elk Hills Memorial Park 304.965.5312 4705 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston contact Glenn Pauley 304.954.5721

ALL SEASONS SELF STORAGE AFFILIATED FINANCial GROUP 304.965.7988 304.935.2230 allseasonsselfstoragewv.com 4508 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston

Candice A. Hawley, CPA PLLC 681.265.9222 and on Facebook 4628 Pennsylvania Ave, Charleston CANTRELL’S FLORIST 304.965.5101 304.548.7700 CANTRELL’S FLORIST 7484 Elk River Rd, Clendenin 304.548.7700 7484 Elk River Rd, Clendenin CHRISTY CONLEY DESTINATION SPECIALIST CENTRAL WV AGING SERVICES christina.conley@crusieplanners.com Local Charleston Office 304.377.0803 304.965.9081

ELK RIVERDENTISTRY AUTOMOTIVE ELK FAMILY 304.965.7501 304.965.6661 contact Gary W. Pauley contact Joey Adkins, DDSII

ELK RIVER GET-A-WAY Elk River Floral LLC 16544St., ElkClendenin River Rd., Clendenin 9 Main 304.993.0006/304.941.4296 304.548.8998

ELK RIVER AUTOMOTIVE ELK VALLEY PHYSICAL THERAPY 304.965.7979 304.965.7501 contact Andi MPT contact Gary W.Geary, Pauley II ELK RIVER AUTO SUPPLY ELITE ROOFING 304.965.5312 304.989.4792 www.eliteroo ngwv.com contact Glenn Pauley FINGERS 2 TOES Club Elk River Boxing 304.541.6134 5522 Elk River Rd. Elkview contact Jennifer Casto 681.313.6001

ELK RIVER CHIROPRACTIC FORD & SWEENEY Dr.304.935.4801 Scott Collias 4710 Dr., Ste.Elkview D 51Chimney Credes Landing, 304.965.2458

GABBY’S SEWING & MORE Elk Valley Electric CLENDENIN PHARMACY CLENDENIN PHARMACY 304.437.3739 304.419.5337 304.548.5451 304.548.5451 gabbyssewingwv.com contact Bill oror Lindsay Ore Matuszkiewicz contact Bill Lindsay Ore Matuszkiewicz www.elkvalleyelectric.com GINO’S PIZZA & SPAGHETTI HOUSE CREDE TRACTOR Elk304.965-7031 Valley Pet Crematorium CREDE TRACTOR 304.965.1666 Inside Elkonline Hills Memorial Park 304.965.1666 Order at ginospizza.com contact William Crede 4705 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston contact William Crede

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There’s no place like home!

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304.343.2049 Ford and Sweeney check out on Facebook 51 Credesthem Landing, Elkview 304.935.4801 HOLSTEIN INSURANCE

304.965.9941 FROSTBITE DAIRY BAR holsteininsuranceagencyinc.com 1 Cobb Ave., Clendenin 304.548.7413 JEFF’S AUTO & TOWING 304.965.7525 GABBY’S SEWING & MORE 22 Quick 304.437.3739Rd, Pinch gabbyssewingwv.com JETT’S AUTO AND TOWING, LLC

681.230.2508 GINO’S PIZZA & SPAGHETTI HOUSE 103 Cobb Loop, Clendenin 304.965-7031 Order online at ginospizza.com JETT’S CONSTRUCTION, LLC 304.565.7053 GIOVANNI’S - CLENDENIN Newton, WV 304.548.7002 giovannispizzapower.com JONES AUTO

HAFER FUNERAL HOME & 304.965.6180 MYER’S CHAPEL jonesautotruckrepair@gmail.com 304.965.3331 / 304.965.3341 JONES EXCAVATING haferfuneralhome.net 304.965.6180

HARDINGS FAMILY RESTAURANT jonesexcavatingofcharleston.com 304.344.5044 MEXICAN RESTAURANT I-79JULIO’S Exit 1, Mink Shoals 304.548.4625

HOLSTEIN INSURANCE 12 Main St, Clendenin 304.965.9941 KNIGHTHORST holsteininsuranceagencyinc.com 877.474.7332

HPSwww.knighthorst.com Company Inc. 3207 Pennsylvania Avenue, Charleston KNIGHT INSURANCE 304.343.7515 304.548.4726 Ideal Protein knightinsurance@frontier.com Charleston Family Chiropractic 308 Patrick St. Plaza, Charleston 304.344.9077

ERL

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GIVE OUR SPONSORS THE OPPORTUNITY ELK RIVER LIVING would like to thank TO HAVE YOUR BUSINESS.

CLENDENIN PHARMACY Elk River Community.

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for their remarkable of the WOULD YOU LIKE TO ADVERTISE WITHadministration ELK RIVER LIVING? PLEASE CONTACT CYNDI@ELKRIVERLIVING.COM OR 304.546.9243 OR VISIT US AT ELKRIVERLIVING.COM COVID-19 vaccination for the community!

maraellis.com

MOLLOHAN AUTO BODY 304.437.2195 MURDOCK’S AUTO REPAIR 2026 Waters Edge Dr., Elkview

SOLID ROCK CONTRACTING 304.444.4288 SMITH’S CARPET ONE contact Phil Shaffer

SMITH’S FURNITURE & APPLIANCE

JONES AUTO MASTER CRAFTERS GIFT & 304.965.6180 PRIMITIVES SHOPPE jonesautotruckrepair@gmail.com

MURDOCK’S PRE-OWNED MOMMA PAYNE’S DINER AUTOS 304.548.3255 304.543.9930 14murdockspreownedautosales.com Main St, Clendenin

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ONE FOR THE BOOKS MOUNTAINEER AUCTION 304.552.3956 304.548.4056 oneforthebooksllc.com Contact Roger Mullins

SPENCER’S HARDWARE 525 Railroad Ave., Elkview 304.548.6995 304.935.2505 8290 Elk River Rd. N, Clendenin

JULIO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 304.548.6611 304.548.4625 maticsfuneralhome@suddenlink.net 12 Main St, Clendenin

MT. PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH PAMALA’S GIFTS & TREASURES 304.548.7100 304.965.7062 7 Main St. Clendenin mpbcwv.org

The Chop Shop, Kaylee Wehrle 304.444.4288 3202 Penn. Ave. (Elk Hills) contact Phil Shaffer Text or call 304.552.9924

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ONE FOR THE BOOKS POCA VALLEY BANK 304.552.3956 304.965.7730 oneforthebooksllc.com pocavalleybank.com

TUDOR’S BISCUIT WORLD 1005 Bridge Road, Charleston 1083 Main Street Elkview 304.344.9392 Open until 7 PM starting April 1

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Penny Pinchers RODNEY LOFTIS & SON 1195Main St., Clendenin Casdorph Rd., Charleston 304.548.4005 304.342.8200 and on Facebook

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RODNEY & SON ROGERSLOFTIS HARDWARE 95304.965.1077 Casdorph Rd., Charleston 304.342.8200 and on Facebook Contact Bill Rogers

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contactFOODS Mitch Young LEGACY ForMOLLOHAN Delivery Call: AUTO BODY 304.545.0802 304.437.2195

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Logan Taylor Photography 14 Main St, Clendenin CallMOSS or Text 304.941.7622 TREE SERVICE LLC MATICS FUNERAL HOME 304.965.8095 304.548.6611 www.mosstreeservice.com maticsfuneralhome.com MOUNTAINEER AUCTION MEADOWBROOK ACRES 304.548.4056 NURSING CENTER contact Roger Mullins

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ROGERS HARDWARE ROLLIN SMOKE 304.965.1077 304.437.2643 Contact Bill Rogers www.rollinsmokebbqribs.com

SPECIAL OCCASIONS 304.965.7111 & 304.965.7600 304.965.5434 Big Chimney & Elkview, WV Specialoccasionflowers.com

SMITH INSURANCE AGENCY

SOLID ROCK CONTRACTING

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SPENCER’S HARDWARE Xspec POWER 304.548.6995 304.746.1139 8290 Elk RiverCanterbury Rd. N, Clendenin contact Emily

SWOR INSURANCE AGENCY Yak House Rentals 1618 Bigley Ave., Charleston 304.941.2229 8290 Elk River Rd. N, Clendenin Yakhouserentals.com

Scott’s Service and SEVENTH BOUTIQUE & BEAUTY BAR THOMAS HEALTH Auto Repair 202 7th Ave, South Charleston PHYSICIANS PARTNERS 311C Elk River Road, S., Clendenin 304.746.7717 304.414-4THS (484) 681.230.2151 SLEEP INN BARBERSHOP SHAFER’S 800.216.0661 304.654.0726 sleepinncharlestonwv.com Facebook.com/shafersbarbershop SMITH’S ONE CARE SHARI’SCARPET FAMILY HAIR 304.965.7111 304.400.4945 Big Chimney, contact ShariWV Ball SMITH’S FURNITURE & SLEEP INN APPLIANCE HARDINGS FAMILY RESTAURANT 304.965.7600 800.216.0661 & 304.344.5044 Elkview, WV sleepinncharlestonwv.com

contact Mitch Young

3

Thomashealth.org

TUDOR’S BISCUIT WORLD 1083 Main Street Elkview Open until 7 PM starting April 1 Xspec POWER 304.746.1139 contact Emily Canterbury YAK HOUSE 304.941.2229 yakhouserentals.com

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

MARA BOGGS ELLIS Jays Remodeling COLONY REALTORS 315OLD Surface Dr. Charleston 304.541.7336/304.344.2581 304.205.0914

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EVENTS

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

cyndi@elkriverliving.com

304-343-4646 304-343-4646

February of February Schedule Schedule of Virtual Virtual Events Events 304-343-4646

All are For see All events events February are hosted hosted online. online.

For more more details, details, see www.kanawhalibrary.org www.kanawhalibrary.org Schedule of Virtual Events

All events are hosted online. For more details, see www.kanawhalibrary.org

Children Children & & Family: Family:

Adults: Teens: Elk Valley Book Group Discord Minecraft and Gaming Tuesday, Feb. 16, 23,p.m.

Wednesdays, Feb. 10, 17 & 24, 3 p.m.

Everyone invited Zoom discussion of our Join us onisXbox Livetotoa play Minecraft! monthly book. For the title of the book please Discordcontact Minecraft and Gaming the Elk Valley Branch Library. Copies of Teens: Anime Afternoon Online the book will be available checkout at the Elk Wednesdays, Feb. 3, 10, 17 & 24,for 3 p.m.

Thursdays, Feb. 4 & 18, 3:30 p.m.

Valley circulation desk or download from Hoopla Join us on Xbox Live to playserver Minecraft!

Join us onNew our members Discord as we welcome. chat or Libby. are always and watch different anime shows! begins Registration is required.

Registration Teens: Anime JanuaryAfternoon 19. Zoom. Online Discord Thursdays, Feb. 4Game & 18,Night 3:30 p.m.

Fridays, Feb. 5 & 19, 8 p.m. as we chat Join us on our Discord server Teens: Join us on Discord for our game night!

Teens:

and watch different anime shows!

Discord Minecraft and Gaming Teen Virtual Feb. D&D3,Club 10, 17 & 24, 3 p.m.

DiscordWednesdays, Game Night Saturday, Feb. 13,Live Noon Join us on Xbox to play Minecraft!

Join us our8 Discord Fridays, Feb. 5 &on19, p.m. server and roll20.net as we play ourAnime monthly D&Dgame sessionnow online!

Teens: Online Join us on Discord forAfternoon our night!

New players always welcome.

Thursdays, Feb. 4 & 18, 3:30 p.m.

Join us on our Discord server as we chat Teen Virtual D&Ddifferent Club anime shows! and watch

Saturday, Feb. 13, Noon Discord Game Night Join us on our Discord server and roll20.net as we Fridays, Feb. 5 & 19, 8 p.m. play ourJoin monthly D&D sessionnownight! online! us on Discord for our game New playersTeens: alwayssend welcome. your Discord username to

andrew.stanley@kanawhalibrary.org Teen Virtual D&D Club Saturday, Feb. 13, invited Noon to the server. to be Join us on our Discord server and roll20.net as we play our monthly D&D session- now online!

New players always welcome.

FEBRUARY 2021

send your Discord usernametoto Teens: Teens: send your Discord username andrew.stanley@kanawhalibrary.org andrew.stanley@kanawhalibrary.org to be invited to the server. to be invited to the server.

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Virtual Virtual Storytime Storytime Wednesdays, Wednesdays, Feb. Feb. 3, 3, 10, 10, 17 17 & & 24, 24, 10:30 10:30 a.m. a.m.

Enjoy a new story with us on Facebook.

Plus suggestions for other books.

Virtual Storytime

Children & Family:

Wednesdays, Feb. 3, 10, 17 & 24, 10:30 a.m.

5 Word Story Enjoy a new story with usp.m. on Facebook.

Thursdays, Thursdays, Feb. Feb. 4, 4, 11, 11, 18 18 & & 25, 25, 44 p.m.

Plus suggestions books.

What’s happening this picture?

What’s happening in infor thisother picture?

Tell us in 5 words on Facebook!

Tell us in 5 words on Facebook!

5 Word Story 1st Chapter Fridays 1st Chapter Thursdays, Feb. 4, &11, & 25, 4 p.m.

Fridays, Feb. 5,Fridays 12, 19 26,18 3 p.m.

Fridays, Feb. 5, 12, 19 & 26, 3 p.m.

Sneak peek of a varietyinofthis chapter books What’s happening picture?

Sneak peek of a variety of chapter books on Facebook.

TellFacebook. us in 5 words on Facebook! on Family STEM 1st Chapter Fridays Family STEM Saturday, Feb. 20, 2 p.m.

Join the Kanawha Library Saturday, Feb. 20, 2County p.m.

Fridays, Feb. 5, 12, 19 & Public 26, 3 p.m. as wethe explore a science concept!

Join Kanawha County Public Library books Sneak peekbooks of a about variety chapter We willexplore read theoftopic covered as we a science concept! on Facebook. and show science in action.

We will read books about the topic covered and show science in action.

Family FamilyStorytime STEM Saturday, Feb. 27, 2 p.m.

Family Storytime Saturday, Feb. 20, 2 p.m. librarian will read In this storytime, a Children’s Saturday, Feb. 27, 2 p.m.

Join the Countythrough Public Library books andKanawha guide participants In this storytime, a Children’s librarian will read rhymes and activities about a theme that as weand explore aparticipants science concept! books guide through families will enjoy!

We willand read booksabout about the topic rhymes activities a theme that covered and show science in action. families will enjoy!

All Ages:

Family Storytime

Harry Potter Virtual Book Night Saturday,Feb. Feb. 2 p.m.

Thursday, 4, 627, p.m.

In this storytime, a Children’s will read Join us for a magical evening of fun librarian as we celebrate Harry Potter Book Night!

This year we books and guide participants through will be celebrating virtually, with Take and Make crafts rhymes for and activities a theme that available pickup, and a about Zoom trivia contest!

families will enjoy!

Children’s programming sponsored by the BB&T West Virginia Foundation Children’s programming sponsored by the BB&T West Virginia Foundation

Elk River Floral, LLC

Pamala Allen Owner

Patty Rose Manager

Valentine’s Day Specials Available 9 M A I N S T R E E T, C L E N D E N I N

304.548.8998

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Mon.-Fri. 8am-4pm; Weekend Service for funerals.

Wire service available. Free Delivery in town limits.

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FEBRUARY 2021

Clendenin’s Blessings Box

W

“Take what you need. Leave what you can.”

hen Alexa Allen decided to have a Blessings Box in the Town of Clendenin, she wanted to raise awareness plus provide a source for much needed items, including free food and toiletries. She is indeed a blessing to the Town and those who need a little extra help.

Working with the Clendenin Town Council and Mayor Kay Summers, Alexa put up the first Blessings Box at the Town Hall in Clendenin on November 29, 2020. She explained, “A Blessings Box is a small, often homemade structure where people leave donated goods for others to pick up anonymously. Located in a common area, people fill them with items that will help those in need--everything from non-perishable food to toiletries.” Alexa hopes the box will serve a purpose for those who are hungry when the food pantry is closed, for families who are on a low income, and for travelers who forgot their wallet or are a little short on funds.

Janet Rollyson and Crystal Hawkins work at The Clendenin Health Center and they help stock The Blessings Box. Janet said, “ I feel like if you have it to give, it's a good thing. I know everyone has someone in their lives that needs a little help at some point. Everyone has a story and this is a chance to spread a little kindness.” The Clendenin Health Clinic also hung up a sign that said FREE to help it be more visible after Clendenin Town

Alexa Allen, Miss Infinity 2021. Photo by Joe Hoover.

Councilman Tim Huffman told them about The Blessings Box. Alexa was Ms. Metro Valley, West Virginia United States (WVUS) 2020 and she is the reigning Miss Infinity 2021. She said, “I am so pleased to have the support to help bring The Blessings Box to our Town. I have lived in this great town most of my life and I am eager and ready to start continued on page 14

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

“Take what you need. Leave what you can” is posted on The Blessings Box. Alexa said, “Anyone can donate at any point in time. Additionally, volunteers and community organizations can hold fundraisers to replenish items in the box.”

Items most frequently donated and used to stock The Blessings Box include: canned goods with ring pulls, socks, mittens, hand warmers, crackers, toilet paper, non-perishable foods, bottled water, small snacks, and toiletries including hand soap, tooth brushes, toothpaste and baby wipes.

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Clendenin’s Blessings Box, cont. building these beautiful boxes with the help of our community.”

Dave Godbey of Dave’s Garage on Thorofare Road has volunteered to help Alexa build a second Blessings Box for the Town. Alexa said, “If we can have Blessings Boxes at several locations, I believe this would be a great contribution to our community.”

If you are interested in donating items or helping with additional Blessings Boxes, please contact Alexa at ms.metrovalley2020@gmail.com or stop by Liberty Tax Service on Main Street in Clendenin to talk with her. The more blessings, the better!

Photo by Mallory Kay Photography with permission.

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FEBRUARY 2021

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235 ELK RIVER ROAD SOUTH CLENDENIN, WV

548.7002

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

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THE

ELK’S COOKBOOK A VALENTINE’S DINNER TO LOVE

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elcome to ERL’s special menu for Valentine’s Day! With so many of us staying indoors due to COVID worries, why not serve a wonderful Valentine’s Day dinner for your family at home. Gabi Strickland Walker (Walker Mts. Eats on Facebook) presents this month’s menu which includes: Spinach and Artichoke Dip as the appetizer; Asian Salad/Oriental Cole Claw as the salad; Trisha Yearwood’s Crock Pot Pork Loin, and Serena Harerra's Mashed Potato Casserole as the main course; and Italian Love Cake for dessert! Don’t forget the Sparking Punch which is sure to be a hit whether you choose to add sparkling white grape juice or your favorite sparkling wine.

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DIRECTIONS

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SPINACH ARTICHOKE DIP So creamy, cheesy, stringy...warm and gooey. Just what any good dip needs to be!

Ingredients

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3 T Flour

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3 T Butter

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1-1/2 C Whole Milk (more If Needed)

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3 cloves Garlic - Minced

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1 (8oz) Cream Cheese - softened

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1 bag fresh baby Spinach

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1/2 C Crumbled Feta

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Salt/Pepper - to taste

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1/2 C Grated Parmesan

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2 (15oz) cans Artichoke Hearts - Rinsed & Drained

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2 C Grated Pepper Jack Cheese (divided 1C ea)

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1/4 t Cayenne

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3 T Butter (additional)

Step 1 •

Preheat oven 375

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Spray a 2qt baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.

Step 2 •

Melt 3T butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for a couple of minutes. Turn up the heat a bit and add in the spinach. Stir around and cook for a couple of minutes until the spinach wilts. Remove the spinach from the skillet and put it in a small strainer. Squeeze the excess juice back into the skillet. Set the spinach aside.

Step 3 •

Throw in the artichokes and cook over medium high heat for several minutes, until liquid is cooked off and artichokes start to get a little color. Remove the artichokes.

Step 4 •

In a different pot, melt (additional) 3T butter and whisk in 3T of our until it makes a paste. Cook over mediumlow heat for a minute or two, then pour in milk. Stir and cook until slightly thickened; splash in more milk if needed.

Step 5 •

Add cream cheese, feta, Parmesan, 1 C pepper jack, and cayenne and stir until the cheeses are melted and sauce is smooth. Chop artichokes and spinach and add to the sauce. Stir to combine.

•

ke at 375 for 15 minutes, or until Pour into the prepared baking dish. Top with the extra 1C pepper jack and bake the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve with Naan, Pita Wedges, Tortilla Chips, Crackers or raw veggies

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Step 6

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02

ASIAN SALAD/ORIENTAL COLE SLAW Simple, so delicious, and a perfect side for pork.

Ingredients •

Slaw

Dressing

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16 oz. bag Broccoli Cole Slaw or any Cole Slaw Mix

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Mix well:

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1 C olive oil

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5 green onion tops, diced

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⅔ C red wine vinegar (or white vinegar)

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15 oz. can mandarin oranges, drained (optional)

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½ C sugar

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2 Flavor Packets from Ramen Noodles (optional)

Toppings •

1 C sliced almonds

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1 C sunower seeds

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2 pkgs Oriental (or beef) Ramen Noodles uncooked

Step 1 Mix together slaw, diced green onions, and mandarin oranges. Pour dressing over the above ingredients, toss well, cover, and refrigerate several hours or best if overnight.

Step 2 Crush ramen noodles and mix together with other topping ingredients and place in a sealed container or baggie.

Step 3 Right before serving, add toppings and toss well.

(NOTE from Gabi: You can refrigerate any leftovers, but the noodles do get soggy.)

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SPARKLING PUNCH Super easy and looks spectacular. Beautiful served from a punch bowl, large pitcher, or clear drink dispenser.

FEBRUARY 2021

Ingredients

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2 cranberry frozen juice concentrate* (use frozen)

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1-2 (25.4 oz. each) bottles of sparkling white grape juice or your favorite sparkling wine (chilled)

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2 liters of lemon-lime soda (chilled)

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1 large bag fresh whole cranberries, washed and frozen

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1 fresh lime for g garnish

e In a large pitcher or drink dispenser, add frozen juice concentrate* and top with the other liquids. Gently mix ingredients. Add frozen whole cranberries to oat on top. Serve chilled.

(NOTE from Gabi: You can add ice, but I don’t prefer it like that because it waters it down. If your drink dispenser has the center tube for ice, that works great to keep it chilled.) *I can’t always nd frozen cranberry concentrate so a good substitute is frozen wild berry or cran-raspberry or a mix of them is good, too.

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TRISHA YEARWOOD’S CROCK POT PORK LOIN Easy and avorful and the gravy was delicious, especially on our mashed potatoes.

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Ingredients 2 1/2 - 3 lb pork loin (or tenderloin) -trimmed of all visible fat

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1/4t kosher salt

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1T oil

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1t garlic powder

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2C chicken broth

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1/4t ground ginger

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2T lemon juice

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1/2t dried thyme

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2T soy sauce

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1/2t BBQ rub/seasoning blend

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3 tablespoons cornstarch •for gravy•

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1/2t black pepper

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salt and pepper - to taste

•

Step 1 Season the pork loin lightly with salt. In a small bowl combine the garlic powder, ginger, dried thyme, and black pepper. Rub the seasoning over the surface of the pork loin.

Step 2 In a skillet heat the oil and brown the pork loin on all sides.* Transfer the pork to the crock pot.

Step 3 Combine the chicken broth, lemon juice, and soy sauce; pour over the pork loin.

Cover and cook on LOW 8-10 hrs or (HIGH 4-5 hrs) After cooking, transfer the roast to a platter and cover with foil to keep warm.

Pork Loin Gravy Step 1 To make the gravy, pour the liquid from the crock pot into a measuring cup. Skim off the fat.

Step 2 Measure 2C of the liquid (adding water or chicken stock if needed to make 2C) Transfer to a sauce pan reserving 1/2C of the liquid.

Step 3 Stir the cornstarch into the reserved 1/2C liquid, then stir into the liquid in the sauce pan. Heat, stirring frequently, until the gravy is thick and bubbly. Taste and season with salt and pepper, if needed. Serve the roast with the gravy.

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

(*NOTE from Gabi - I totally forgot to thaw my loin so I could brown it rst, and I just placed it in the crockpot frozen e extra browning.) and cooked it on HIGH for 6hrs. There was more fat to skim off, but it was delicious without the

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SERENE HERRERA’S MASHED POTATO CASSEROLE The creamiest, cheesiest mashed potatoes EVER! This easy to make side dish is loaded up with extra melty cheese, crispy bacon, and chives. The best part? You can make this dish ahead of time and then just pop it in the oven to heat back up!

Ingredients •

3 pounds russet potatoes

Topping

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water

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1/4 cup panko

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7 tablespoons butter

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1 tablespoon butter

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3/4 cup sour cream

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2 tablespoons chopped chives

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1/4 cup milk

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5 strips bacon cooked

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1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

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1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

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3/4 teaspoon salt

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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese Step 1 Peel and chop the potatoes. Add to a large pot. Cover with water and heat over high heat, boil the potatoes in the water about 20 minutes or until softened.

Step 2 Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Step 3 Drain the potatoes and add to a large mixing bowl. Add the butter, sour cream, milk, garlic powder, and salt. Mix with a potato masher or for creamier potatoes use a hand or stand mixer.

Step 4 Add the shredded cheddar cheese and stir to combine.

Step 5 Spray a 2 quart baking dish with cooking spray. Spoon the potato mixture into the dish. Smooth the top with the back of a spoon.

Step 6 In a small saucepan add the tablespoon of butter and the panko bread crumbs. Cook over medium heat until just toasted. Sprinkle on top of the potatoes.

Step 7 Top with shredded cheese and bake uncovered for about 15 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Step 8

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FEBRUARY 2021

Top with bacon and chives. Serve warm and enjoy!

IV ELKRIVERL

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ITALIAN LOVE CAKE This cake is magical. The layers of the cake ip as it bakes. It’s like a cheesecake, cake, and chocolate mousse all in one.

IIt’s a showstopper recipe that everyone loves!

Ingredients 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients to make per package directions)

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2 - 15oz ricotta cheese

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3/4C sugar

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4 eggs

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1t vanilla

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1 - 3.4oz box instant chocolate pudding

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1C milk

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1 - 8oz Cool Whip - thawed

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1C mini chocolate chips - optional garnish

Step 1 Preheat oven 350 Spray a 9x13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray and lightly dust bottom and sides with our, set aside.

Step 2 Mix cake mix per package directions and pour into the prepared baking dish.

Step 3 In a separate bowl combine ricotta, eggs, sugar, and vanilla. Mix well.

Step 4 Gently spoon ricotta mixture over top of unbaked cake. Bake for 1 hour and cool completely.

Step 5 Mix pudding with milk and then fold in Cool Whip. Spread pudding mixture over cooled, cooked cake. Garnish with mini chocolate chips. Keep refrigerated and serve chilled.

DAY

HAPPY Valentine's

from E L K R I V E R L I V I N G

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM .COM

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proactive approach to -401k Rollover 304-741-3909 follow-up. We take a -Life Insurance MITCHOWNERYOUNG ROAD SERVICE KEY LOCK-OUT Registered Representative planning to execution to SERVICING WEST VIRGINIA -Estate Planning** Randy Young undividedSOLIDROCK attention—from everyCONTRACTING client gets our -Disability Insurance everyone, which isExcavation why • General MITCH’S 24 HR TOWING •“No Land Clearing one strategy fits 100 FRAME ROAD ELKVIEW, WV 25071 • Dump Truck Service 304.965.6646 • Retaining Walls • Underground Utilities • Demolition

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Charleston, WV 25302

Randy Young Randy Young Registered Representative 304-741-3909 Registered Representative

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Brad McDaniel Agent Brad McDaniel 304-553-2812

Agent 304-553-2812

*Located in Big Chimney across from Little Smiths Grocery Store/Smiths Hardware

Securities offered through J.W. Cole Financial. Inc. (JWC).

Member FINRA/SIPC .Affiliated Financial Group Inc. and JWC are unaffiliated entities. Brad McDaniel is not associated with J.W.Cole Financial, Inc.

*Located in Big Chimney across from Little Smiths Grocery Store/Smiths Hardware

Securities offered through J.W. Cole Financial. Inc. (JWC).

Member FINRA/SIPC .Affiliated Financial Group Inc. and JWC are unaffiliated entities. Brad McDaniel is not associated with J.W.Cole Financial, Inc.

-Disability Insurance -Disability Insurance -Estate Planning** -Estate Planning** -Life Insurance -401k Rollover -Life Insurance -Fixed/Indexed/Variable -401k Rollover Annuities -Fixed/Indexed/Variable -529 College Savings Plan Annuities Planning -Retirement

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**Legal documents prepared by attorney

A Tisket, A Tasket, Let’s Make a Basket Join Elk River Floral LLC on Saturday, February 27, for a special basket-weaving class and make your own basket. The cost of the class is $50 which includes instruction and all materials.

The instructor is artisan Elaine Sinclair who started a basket guild in Harrison County in 2000. As an artisan she has proudly displayed her baskets at The Salem Applebutter Festival for 17 years and at the Forest Festival in Elkins for 14 years. She has taught basket classes of her own in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, and West Virginia. She is also a juried artisan at Tamarack in Beckley, WV and her baskets and penny rugs are for sale there. In 2011 she was chosen as one of the top 15 out of 3000 artisans and was featured in the WV Living Magazine.

Everyone should also bring a bucket and an old towel with them.

The class begins at 9 AM and will be held in the old Jackson building at 13 Main Street in Clendenin. COVID guidelines will be followed. The class will end by 5 PM (or earlier if everyone has completed their baskets). Lunch is on your own. Drinks will be provided.

Elaine’s hang tag on her baskets is: “Never enough baskets or blessings”. Come join Elk River Floral LLC and Elaine for an exciting day of fun and crafting.

Also! Photography Class Coming in March

Have you always wanted to learn how to take good photos? Elk River Floral LLC is PRE-REGISTRATION for the basket-weaving also offering a beginning photography class, class is required by February 10. The class is instructed by award-winning photographer, limited to 12 participants. Call 304.548.8998 Jill Moles Mullins. to reserve and pre-pay for your seat now. The next beginning photography class is a two-part class and will be held on Saturday, March 20 and 27. The fee for the two-part class is $75 and the class is limited to 10.

To register, just go to Elk River Floral LLC on Facebook. If you have any questions, you can send a message via Facebook messenger/ Elk River Floral LLC. The class will meet at the old Jackson building at 13 Main Street in Clendenin at 9 AM.

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

ND THE U O

ELK

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ELK REFLECTS

Momma Payne’s Diner Displays Clendenin History

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f you have stopped by Momma Payne’s Diner in Clendenin lately, you have probably noticed the large cut stone against the wall. This stone was one of two stones recovered from the former Clendenin High School/Clendenin Junior High School property. One stone is now located in the Museum of the Elk River Communities and the second stone was donated to Momma Payne’s Diner so that it’s history could be shared with the local residents.

Richard Bashlor, who volunteers at the Museum of the Elk River Communities, said, “In 1982 we were laying a new sewer line for Clendenin Junior High from the locker rooms toward the old sewage plant.

We found these two large stones that we believe were part of the old foundation which was laid up in stone. These two stones may have been cut out of the foundation to create fire exits which were added at a later date.” He said, “They may have just thrown them over the river bank. We had to have a backhoe to help recover the stones.”

One of the stones was donated to Andrea Underwood, owner of Momma Payne’s Diner, because she has a lot of local history displayed at her restaurant located at 14 Main Street in Clendenin. There

FEBRUARY 2021

L-R Carolyn Pirnat, Richard Bashlor and Harry Lynn

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are numerous old photographs of Clendenin under glass at their counter as well as framed memorabilia on the walls. Andrea said, “We originally wanted to give our restaurant a diner theme featuring vintage cars and vinyl records, but over the years we have also incorporated a lot of Clendenin history. Everyone enjoys seeing the Town’s early photographs.” Carolyn Pirnat, Harry Lynn and Richard Bashlor, volunteers at

They offer Walnut Creek Amish meats and cheeses (sliced anyway you like it), meat trays, and a full array of Walnut Creek jams, jellies, pickles, salsas, breads, snacks and more!

You can order a pan of fresh dinner rolls or pepperoni rolls or one of their delicious pies to take home with you. In the spring, they also carry fresh produce each week.

Momma Payne's and their Walnut Creek display.

Momma Payne’s is a local favorite, not just because of their Clendenin memorabilia.

Their menu specializes in home cooked meals and delicious desserts. They even have two breakfast specials, The Charlie Breakfast (after Charlie Schoolcraft) and the Bob’s Dump Truck Omelet (after Bob Hizer) inspired and named after Town locals. Also, several sandwiches have been named after Diner regulars, including The Duke Dog (after Duke Sloan), the Pipeliner Round Steak (after Phil McAlister), the Darrel Burger (after Darrel Boggs) and the Big Ken Club (after Kenny Payne).

Momma Payne's Vintage Diner Theme.

the Museum of Elk River Communities, visited Momma Payne’s Diner to see the stone at its new location.

With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic last spring, Momma Payne’s started offering togo services for their lunch and dinner menu.

Andrea said, “I am so thankful that we could still get hot meals to so many on the Elk River who were quarantined.”

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Momma Payne’s Diner is open from 8 AM to 7 PM Monday through Friday, and on Saturday from 8 AM to 2 PM, for dine-in, pickup or delivery. Call 304.543.9930 for to-go orders or for delivery to Clendenin, Amma, Queen Shoals, Elkview, Big Chimney and surrounding areas.

Owner Andrea Payne and Nicole Holcomb

Andrea’s giving heart and kindness is a testament to her love for her hometown of Clendenin. Richard Bashlor said, “Donating the stone to her was the right thing to do. We knew she would love displaying it in Momma Payne’s for the community.”

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Elk Valley Electric Craig White, Owner Phone: 304-419-5337 Website: www.elkvalleyelectric.com Email: Craig@elkvalleyelectric.com

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P.O. Box 4537 • Charleston, WV 25364 Phone: (304) 965-5101 • Fax: (304) 965-5102 Email: chawley@candicehawley.com

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Appointments please. Walk-ins limited due to COVID regulations.

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The Red Rooster Cafe is located on 9 Second Avenue in Clendenin (behind the Speedway on Elk River Road) and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Their dining room hours are 7 AM to 3 PM Tuesday through Thursday, and 7 AM to 7 PM on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. They are closed on Mondays. They offer carry-out (pick up at the drive through window or inside) and dine-in options (adhering to COVID guidelines).

The Drive-Thru Window opens at 6AM Tuesday-Sunday and it offers a limited menu for breakfast and lunch. Customers can call ahead to 304.548.6499, however, and order any menu item for pick up.

“Good ole country style cookin’ is our specialty,” said Jo. The breakfast menu ranges from breakfast platters with eggs just the way you like them, omelets, pancakes, waffles, french toast, biscuits, gravy plates, and delicious sides.

Lunch includes hot dogs, burgers, appetizers, soups, salads, sandwiches, and desserts. There are also basket combos featuring your choice of fried clams, chicken tenders, all-beef hot dogs, smoked sausage/sauerkraut, and 4-piece and 10-piece wings. Also, don’t forget to check out their Tuesday through Friday Lunch Specials. continued on page 30

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

I

n case you haven’t heard, there is a new restaurant in Clendenin! The Red Rooster Cafe opened its doors for a soft launch on Tuesday, January 19, 2021 which also featured their famous Taco Tuesday Special (tacos, quesadillas, and enchiladas). Their official grand opening will be in February. Owners and sisters Jo Barten and Terry Thomas moved here from the Okeechobee area of Florida, and they are excited to officially be open to serve the Elk River community.

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NEW ELK RIVER BUSINESS, cont.

FEBRUARY 2021

Their dinner menu boasts delicious open-faced beef or turkey sandwiches, boneless pork chops, fish and chips, salisbury steak, country fried steak, beans/cornbread, and fried shrimp as well as a variety of salads, 15 side dishes, and desserts.

Also, whole pies and cobblers can be pre-ordered and picked up to-go.

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Friday and Saturday Night Specials start after 3 PM and include fried shrimp, frog legs, seafood platter, frogs-fish-shrimp platter, sirloin pork chops, fried turkey, baked steak, and prime rib.

All dinners come with your choice of potato, coleslaw or side salad and one side, plus your choice of rolls, cornbread or garlic bread. There is also a Little Rooster and Chick Menu for children under 8.

Every Sunday from 11 AM to 7 PM is their ALL YOU CAN EAT FRIED CHICKEN served family

style with mashed potatoes/gravy, corn or green beans, coleslaw, dessert, and coffee or iced tea for $10.99. There is no dinner menu or children’s menu available on Sunday except for the ALL YOU CAN EAT FRIED CHICKEN, served with sides, desserts and breads.

They also have CHICKEN TO-GO Tuesday through Sunday which can be ordered by phone and picked up at the Drive-Thru window (call ahead-they need time to prepare it). CHICKEN-TO-GO packages include 4-piece, 8-piece, and 12-piece chicken dinners with an assortment of delicious sides. Extra sides (regular and large) are available for purchase as well.

Jo and Terry are proud to serve delicious, homemade food, made from scratch. “We use real potatoes for our mashed potatoes and potato salad, not premade. The same for our coleslaw

and other sides. Even our country-fried steak is homemade,” said Jo. She added, “When you order a chicken biscuit here you will have a true chicken breast, not a pre-made patty.” Jo does the cooking and makes sure all of their food meets their standard of ‘good ole country style cookin.’

The wonderful staff at The Red Rooster are Jo Barton and Terry Thomas (owners), Ciara Craft, Amana Cool, Brenda Spencer, Kyle Hill, Dustin Richard, and Lexi White. They all welcome you to stop by and meet them and try the delicious food at The Red Rooster!

Jo and Terry are both retired. Jo had a career for more than 20 years in law enforcement and Terry worked in the Florida State Prison system.

Jo said, “We have been visiting here for 16 years.

My daughter and granddaughter live in Youngs Bottom. We knew we wanted to open a restaurant somewhere. We looked in South Carolina, but we decided to come here. We love the people and the Elk River community!” She also added that George and Jim Smith have been a blessing to help them get their restaurant up and going. Jo said, “We are excited to finally be open to serve our customers. Our goal is to make sure everyone leaves with a full belly!”

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

For all carry-out and Chicken To-Go orders, call 304.548.6499 to place your order and then pick it up at the Drive Thru window or inside in the dining room.

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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.

Honoring Gale Brown (Thank you to Gale Brown and his granddaughters, Regina Conley Bethencourt and Jaimie Althage, for their wonderful help with this article)

T

his month ERL would like to salute honorary Veteran Gale Brown. While his journey in life resulted in him losing his eyesight after World War II, he chose to focus on what he could give back to others. At 95 years of age, he continues to exhibit compassion, strength and gratitude.

After graduating from Gauley Bridge High School, Gale went to work as a coal miner in Gamoca Coal Mines. He then discovered that as a coal miner he would be deferred from the active draft list.

FEBRUARY 2021

Gale Brown with Company Commander, Chief Petty Officer Bartosh at Curtis Bay, MD, Jan. 1944.

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Gale Brown yearbook photo from University of Maryland 1952

For many that may have been their desire, but Gale wanted to serve in the military. He went to the draft office and rejected his deferment and he was then drafted into the United States Coast Guard in 1943. He completed his basic training in Curtis Bay, MD where he attended radio technical school. He was among the top 40 who were chosen to attend Capitol Radio Engineering Institute (CREI). After his graduation from CREI, he selected three locations for his next base assignment: Hawaii, Alaska, and Puerto Rico. He laughed and said, “The military chose for me and

I found myself in Norfolk, VA at a radio repair base.”

Gale landed on the Island of Sasebo at the southern tip of Japan which was less than 40 miles away from Nagasaki, Japan, on October 31, 1945, just 83 days after the atomic bomb was dropped.

Gale’s assignment was to salvage electronics from the kamikaze planes that were parked there.

In a feature article in The Catholic University of America Magazine, (Spring 2016) Gale’s granddaughter, Regina Conley Bethencourt, wrote, “It wasn’t until many decades later that experts would change the radius exposure danger to 150 miles from the epicenter of the Nagasaki blast.”

Gale said, “After the bombs were dropped in Japan, the war was virtually over. As a radio technician, I was not eligible for the points system for discharge, so the Navy negotiated with me so that I could be discharged if I would Gale Brown and United States Senator Shelley Moore Capito at the 2004 Golden Delicious Apple Festival in Clay, WV. He was the parade leader, and she was the Grand Marshal.

Gale Brown and Congressman (now Chief Justice) Evan Jenkins, taken at the dedication of the new Greenbrier County Veterans Clinic in May 2017.

serve as electronics technician on the LCI 323 on its journey from San Diego to New Orleans and oversee the removal of the electrical equipment there.” Gale agreed, and was discharged at Lake Pontchartrain on March 29, 1946.

Gale had started classes in electrical engineering at the University of Maryland in September 1946 but was only about three years in when he began to experience problems with his eyesight. He then decided to transfer to Ohio State University to pursue a degree in history. Regina also wrote in her article that later in April 1951, 4 years after he was out of the service, “Doctors at Ohio State University Hospital finally linked Brown’s symptoms to Bechet’s disease, an immunological syndrome associated with low-dose ionizing radiation that destroyed his eyesight and he was declared legally blind.” continued on page 34 Gale Brown received 75 Year continuous membership of the American Legion. Current member of Post #61. Gale Brown is now a 76 year member.

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Gale completed amphibious training while in Norfolk. They were being trained for a ship that was just being built, the LST 1148. “I helped put her in the water at Seneca,” he said. At age 19, he became the Electronics Technician in charge of all of the electronic equipment on his ship during WWII. Today, he is the only living member of the LST 1148 original crew. He also served on the USS Finback submarine in 1946. Gale explained, “This was the same submarine that rescued downed pilot, George H. W. Bush, in 1942. We were on the same submarine, just at different times.” He stated that he also served on the USS Corporal and on the USS Medregal submarines.

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It was shortly after that when his eyesight continued to worsen that he decided to return to the University of Maryland and study sociology.

After graduating with his sociology degree in 1952, he then trained as a teacher of the blind at The Catholic University of America. After graduating, he worked for the Maryland State Board of Education (School for the Blind) for two years. In 1956, his certification from The Catholic University of America made him the first teacher of the blind certified by the state of Maryland. Later he worked in Prince George’s County, Maryland for 14 years as a teacher of the visually handicapped. He placed the first totally blind child in Maryland public schools in 1956; this achievement was also highlighted in Regina’s article in The Catholic University of America Magazine (Spring 2016). Gale then transferred to Clay, WV where he worked as a special education teacher for 20 years.

FEBRUARY 2021

He is an alumni of The Catholic University of America and Capitol Radio Engineering Institute (CREI) of Washington, DC. He is also an honorary member of the USS West Virginia, one of the 24 trident nuclear submarines. He has a Masters Degree from University of Maryland and a Masters Degree plus 30 from College of Graduate Studies (COGS) in West Virginia. He has lifetime teaching certifications in both Maryland and West Virginia. He is also an advanced graduate student in Maryland and West Virginia which comes with many educational perks.

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Gale has been a member of the American Legion and the VFW for 76 years and is a current member of Hoyt E. Newman Clendenin Post 61 of the American Legion in Clendenin. He was awarded a Commemorative 45 Year Perfect Attendance Pin and paid life membership from the Clay Lions Club. He served as their secretary and treasurer for 22 years. The Clay Lions Club also awarded him the Melvin Jones Award and the Leonard Jarrett Award which are the most prestigious honors given to Lions Club members in WV. Gale was born May 10, 1925 in Wyndal, WV and he will celebrate his 96th birthday this year. Gale said he is proud to have had his photograph taken with notable politicians including former President Harry S. Truman, Senator Shelley Moore Capito, and Congressman Evan H. Jenkins. He also has personally met President John F. Kennedy and Helen Keller. His meeting with Heller Keller was featured in the June 2008 issue of the International Association of Lions Clubs magazine.

He has been married to Delores Hintz Brown for over 62 years and they now live in Indore, WV. He has 4 children, 18 grandchildren and 14 great grandchildren. He said, “My granddaughter, Jaimie Althage, her husband, Philip, and their children moved here to help take care of us in our elder years. Our house is filled with joy, laughter and great-grandchildren and we are so thankful.”

The Elk River community is proud to honor Gale Brown as one of our celebrated veterans.

Gale Brown with Keith Townsend, President of American Legion Post #61

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HANGING UP HER SHEARS Connie Hamilton Barnhouse is retiring! She has owned Scissors Hair Salon in Elkview located at 2 Reynolds Avenue, Suite B, since 1996.

After 25 years at the salon, she is hanging up her shears!

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onnie has been a hair stylist since 1983.

She started Scissors Salon on her own in 1996 and has added 5 to 6 stylists over the years. Originally, there were four chairs and she added a fifth so that each stylist had their own chair. She and Tammy Calvert, who formerly had a shop at Youngs Bottom, were the original two stylists in the shop. Tammy said, “Connie called

me one day and said I’m thinking about opening my own shop, what do you think?” I replied, ‘I think you should buy out my shop and I’m coming with you!’ Sure enough, that’s how Scissors came to be.”

Hair Stylist, Wanda Louden from Mink Shoals, joined them shortly after they opened. When you talk about experience, Scissors has it! Connie has 38 years, Tammy has 40 years, and Wanda has 35.

Diana Huffman of Elkview also joined the salon and she has 53 years of styling experience. Stylists Heather Moore (24 years of experience) and Brea Anderson (18 years of experience) of Elk River have been with her for the last 8 years. The salon is indeed a powerhouse of expertise!

Connie said she has had an amazing 25 years at the shop. Her husband, Danny, even created a special business logo for her. She said, “It was hard to leave the shop. That still makes me sad. I love them like family. In fact, I have spent more time with them than my family.” She added, “It’s been an awesome career, but I’m looking forward to spending time at home enjoying life with my husband, and taking care of our dogs.” She told Danny, “I guess I’m just a chameleon. I just blend into whatever are my surroundings.”

Connie Hamilton Barnhouse

Connie is excited that Heather Moore, who has been with her for the last eight years, has bought the business. The new name of the salon is The Scissors Salon. Heather said the paperwork required a different name and they wanted to keep Scissors, so they just decided to call it The Scissors. “We want to offer the same great service and customer care as we did when Connie was here,” said Heather. All of the stylists remarked that they were more like family than coworkers.

L-R Diana Huffman, Tammy Calvert, Wanda Louden, Brea Anderson and Heather Moore in front. Photo by April Curry.

“Connie may be gone but she’s not forgotten. We all love her.” Heather said they were looking to hire another hairdresser or nail technician in the near future.

If you want an appointment at The Scissors Salon, call 304.965.5904. COVID regulations are in effect for the safety of the customers and the staff.

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THE

ELK’S JOURNAL THE AFFAIR A Radio Detective Agency Novel by L. D. McDonnell

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his month ERL is featuring a novel by L. D. (Larry) McDonnell from the Elk River area. Larry is a husband and father of three from Charleston. He said, “My novel, The Affair, A Radio Detective Agency Novel, is about a private investigator from the Charleston area who takes an extramarital affair case. While investigating the case, the PI and his assistant discover a dead body and then end up uncovering a terrorist plot.

In the story the investigator has a love for local food such as Custard Stand, Fazios, and Tudors. He ends up traveling around famous local locations such as Weston’s TransAtlantic Lunatic Asylum and near where the Braxton County Monster was sighted.”

His book is available on Amazon in paperback, large print, and in Kindle format. Amazon stated: “Roger O’Hare had always dreamed about following in his father’s footsteps of being a police officer. Being a dwarf thwarted this dream, but that didn’t stop Roger--who turns the tables and becomes a killer-diller Private Investigator! Roger runs the Radio Detective Agency in Charleston, West Virginia. Even though he detests extramarital affair cases, business is a little slow, so when he is approached by a ritzy European lady with a French accent who wants to know if her husband is having an affair, he reluctantly takes the case. While he and his assistant are investigating, they are ambushed at the client’s house and discover the client’s husband’s dead body. The two soon realize that there is more to this case than meets the eye. As they follow the clues and get closer to the answers needed to solve this mystery, they are forced to use all their moxie… and martial arts skills to fight for their lives after their client is kidnapped! In a twist neither of them see coming, they find that their client has a dark secret. As the case comes closer to being solved, Roger gets assistance from his best friend’s colleagues at the Federal Bureau of Investigation to expose the true identities of the client and her late husband. And the clowns… what’s with the clowns?”

Here is an excerpt from The Affair:

My name is Roger O'Hare, and I am a dwarf, barely three foot and six inches tall. When I say 'dwarf' I am not referring to the ones in Lord of the Rings with the long beards wielding an axe--though I do have an axe. However, it is more like the ones that hang out with Snow White but without all the whistling. Other acceptable terms are 'person of short stature,' a 'little person,' however, under no circumstances is anyone to use the term 'midget'. It is considered being the "M-word".

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Monday, September 24, 2018: It is a brisk fall morning here in Charleston, West Virginia. I am sitting in my chair on Capitol Street listening to John Coltrane's Greatest Hits. Reflecting on the past few months of officially being in business, I look through the last few cases I have completed.

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