Elk River Living Magazine | Volume 04 | Issue 02 | February 2022

VOLUME 04 | ISSUE 02 | FEB 2022 FREE

ELK RIVER LIVING

FUN IN SNOW

the

The Elk Reflects Remembering two great Elk River coaches.

Rest in Peace and cheer from the Heavens, Coach David Scott “Crow” Hall and Coach Philip Dean “Nip” Anderson.

y a D s ' e n i t Valen Guide g n i p p o h S

al! c o L p Sho

Do What You Love Feature Story:

Brandon Halstead combines his skillset and love of baseball at his Athletic Edge Sports Facility.

The Elk’s Cookbook Gabi Strickland Walker shares her recipe for Marry Me Chicken, a delicious, savory dish that is perfect to serve anytime, but especially on Valentine’s Day.

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ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Take the first step & focus on your health!

3

95 CASDORPH RD, CHARLESTON 304.342.8200

WEST VIRGINIA'S DEMOLITION EXPERTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

16

Winter Wonderland on the Elk Enjoy photos submitted from our reader audience as their kids (and pets) celebrate our first big winter snowfall of 2022.

06

Welcome

08

Our Proud Sponsors

12

The Elk's Cookbook:

30

Reader's Submission

34

Elk Reflects

40

The Elk's Students

22

Marry Me Chicken

FEATURE STORY

Love What You Do and Do What You Love “I am blessed to be in the perfect profession as a sports trainer to give back to the community. I love what I do every day.”

– Brandon Halstead of Athletic Edge Sports Facility

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Valentine Day’s Gift Guide Local Elk River businesses make it easy for you to do your Valentine’s Day gift shopping. Take a look at the “love” they have for you to share!

FROM THE EDITOR

HELLO & Welcome Back!

Our February issue of Elk River Living brings you an eclectic mix of articles that reflect our love on the Elk River. February especially signifies love to Ken and me as we celebrate our 47th wedding anniversary. We laugh and say for every time he wanted to pack my clothes, there were equal times I wanted to pack his. That’s what marriage is all about though, give and take, for better or worse, and to know at the end of the day there is no one else you’d rather have by your side.

February was the perfect month to feature the Athletic Edge Sports Facility, owned by Brandon Halstead. His love for baseball and for our community was the foundation for his business.

He and his wife, Kristen, bought a house in Pinch and Brandon said the camaraderie and support in our schools and our community is one of the reasons why they chose to make Elk River their home.

We hope you enjoy the delightful photos of our community enjoying the first big snowfall we have had in quite a few years. The love on the childrens’ faces warms my heart and I hope it does yours, too. We also included some Valentine gift ideas that are available here in a few of our Elk River businesses. It is so important that we support our local businesses, and if you are like me, a gift from my community means even more.

Our final tribute to love this month is featured in our Elk Reflects as we honor two local coaches on the River. Their passing has left a huge void in our community, but their wisdom, skills, and the endless hours they dedicated to training our youth will echo on the River forever.

It is with heavy hearts that we said good-bye to Nip Anderson and Crow Hall, true Elk River Legends.

Remember to hug the ones you love and I ask that you also remember Andrea Payne Underwood and her family in your prayers. My Valentine’s wish is for healing and to have her back home again soon.

Remember, there’s no place like home...on the Elk River. cyndi@elkriverliving.com

304.546.9243

Editor In Chief / Cyndi Tawney Creative Director / Josh Tawney Operations Director / Ken Tawney Printer / The Printing Press Charleston, WV Layout / Little Secret Design Co.

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: Our adorable cover photo is of Lowenn Giana Markaron Walker, sweet baby girl, age 2, of Gabi and Gary Walker of Blue Creek Road in Elkview. Her big sisters are Paelin Greta Nicholette Walker, age 10, and Ashton Grace Carrie Walker, age 14. Photo by Gabi Strickland Walker.

This cover is dedicated to Papaw Ronnie Strickland. Gabi said, “If only my dad was alive to see this cover! He would have carried this one around and shown the world.”

Our guest photographers this month, who care about our communities and help make this magazine possible: J. Craig Allison, Scott Abbott, Lauren Elizabeth Campbell

J. Craig Allison

Scott Abbott

Lauren Elizabeth Campbell

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

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!

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’s

OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES AFFILIATED FINANCIAL GROUP 304.935.2230 4508 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston

DR. JOHN RICHARDS 304.935.2513 4710 Chimney Dr., Ste. H, Charleston

ANR CONSTRUCTION 304.741.0377 | 304.546.6510 Randy Young, Jr. & Andrew Young

DOOR DECOR & MORE 304.965.2447 4952 Elk River Rd, Elkview

ARMSTRONG LAW, PLLC 304.300.9663 dan@wvlegalhelp.com 624 Elk St., Gassaway

E. JUNE BOUTIQUE Ejunescustomer@gmail.com 100 Verna Drive, Elkview

BECKY’S PET PARLOR 304.951.9162 Rebecca Briles & Kaitlyn Truman BIG CHIMNEY BAPTIST CHURCH 4626 Elk Shore Dr., Charleston Pastor Gary Walker BILL’S USED CARS 304.548.4727 Rt 119 Elk River Road BLUE CREEK HEATING & COOLING 304.965.9148 contact Bill Ross or Roy Crist BOWEN DENTAL Chas: 304.342.0146 Clay: 304.587.7495 contact Stacy or Gary Bowen II CANTRELL’S FLORIST 304.548.7700 7484 Elk River Rd, Clendenin CENTRAL WV AGING SERVICES 304.965.9081 Local Charleston Office CREDE TRACTOR 304.965.1666 contact William Crede DEAN JEFFRIES, STATE FARM 304.965.7024 85 Credes Landing, Elkview

There’s no place like home!

EDENS BODY WORKS, INC. 304.965.5900 102 Neville Rd, Elkview ELK FAMILY DENTISTRY 304.965.6661 contact Joey Adkins, DDS ELK HILLS MEMORIAL PARK 304.954.5721 4705 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston ELK RIVER AUTOMOTIVE 304.965.7501 contact Gary W. Pauley II ELK RIVER AUTO SUPPLY 304.965.5312 contact Glenn Pauley ELK RIVER CHIROPRACTIC 304.965.2458 | Dr. Scott Collias 4710 Chimney Dr., Ste. D

ELITE ROOFING 304.989.4792 5054 A Elk River Rd., S, Elkview www.eliteroofingwv.com E.L. ROBINSON ENGINEERING 304.776.7473 elrobinsonengineering.com 5088 Washington St W, Charleston FIRST SECURITY INC. 304.744.5233 | Steve Booth 512 Chestnut St., S. Charleston FORD & SWEENEY 304.935.4801 51 Credes Landing, Elkview FROSTBITE DAIRY BAR 304.548.7413 1 Cobb Ave., Clendenin GABBY’S SEWING & MORE 304.437.3739 4506 Penn. Ave, Charleston gabbyssewingwv.com GINO’S PIZZA & SPAGHETTI HOUSE 304.965.7031 Order online at ginospizza.com GIOVANNI’S - CLENDENIN 304.548.7002 giovannispizzapower.com

ELK VALLEY ELECTRIC 304.419.5337 www.elkvalleyelectric.com

HAFER FUNERAL HOME & MYER’S CHAPEL 304.965.3331 | 304.965.3341 haferfuneralhome.net

ELK VALLEY PET CREMATORIUM 304.965.0148 Inside Elk Hills Memorial Park 4705 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston

HARDINGS FAMILY RESTAURANT 304.344.5044 2772 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston (Open Wed-Sun 8AM-9M)

ELK VALLEY PHYSICAL THERAPY 304.965.7979 contact Andi Geary, MPT

HOLSTEIN INSURANCE 304.965.9941 holsteininsuranceagencyinc.com IDEAL PROTEIN 304.344.9077 Charleston Family Chiropractic 308 Patrick St. Plaza, Charleston

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 ERL? contact cyndi@elkriverliving.com or 304.546.9243 JONES AUTO & TRUCK REPAIR 304.965.6180 jonesautotruckrepair@gmail.com

MOSS TREE SERVICE LLC 304.965.8095 www.mosstreeservice.com

SMITH'S CARPET ONE 304.965.7111 4774 Chimney Dr., Big Chimney

JONES EXCAVATING 304.965.6180 jonesexcavatingofcharleston.com

MOUNTAINEER AUCTION 304.548.4056 contact Roger Mullins

SMITH'S FURNITURE & APPLIANCE 304.965.7600 Elk Shopping Plaza, Elkview

KEITH'S AUTO PARTS 304.548.7627 | 1-800-RACE-A-VW VW Specialists 6328 Elk River Rd, N. Clendenin

MT. PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH 304.965.7062 mpbcwv.org

SOLID ROCK CONTRACTING 304.444.4288 contact Phil Shaffer

ONE FOR THE BOOKS 304.552.3956 oneforthebooksllc.com

SPECIAL OCCASIONS 304.965.5434 specialoccasionflowers.com

PADDLERS BAR & GRILL 681.230.2061 12 Maywood Avenue W, Clendenin

SPENCER’S HARDWARE 304.548.6995 8290 Elk River Rd. N, Clendenin

PENNY PINCHERS 304.548.4005 11 Main St., Clendenin

TUDOR’S BISCUIT WORLD 304.965.7769 1083 Main Street, Elkview

POCA VALLEY BANK 304.965.7730 | 1.844.782.2651 pocavalleybank.com

WALKER CREEK FARMS & CABINS 304.286.5200 230 Nebo Walker Road, Nebo

PUZZLED PISTOLS BOUTIQUE 4636 Penn. Ave, Ste 2, Charleston www.puzzledpistolsboutique.com

WALLY'S SUPERIOR PARTS & SERVICE 304.935.2287 5100 Elk River Rd., N., Elkview

KNIGHTHORST 877.474.7332 www.knighthorst.com THE LACTATION CONSULTANT NETWORK Jamie Peden, RN, IBCLC 304.314.4052 209 Washington St. W, Ste. 200 LITTLE SECRET DESIGN CO. 304.427.6797 www.littlesecretdesign.co LOGAN TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY Call or Text 304.941.7622 @logantaylorphotagraphy MATICS FUNERAL HOME 304.548.6611 maticsfuneralhome.com MEADOWBROOK ACRES NURSING CENTER 877.474.7332 www.meadowbrookacres.net MITCH’S 24 HR TOWING 304.965.6646 contact Mitch Young MOMMA PAYNE’S DINER 304.543.9930 14 Main St, Clendenin

RODNEY LOFTIS & SON 304.342.8200 & on Facebook 95 Casdorph Rd., Charleston ROGERS HARDWARE 304.965.1077 Contact Bill Rogers

XSPEC POWER 304.746.1139 contact Emily Canterbury

SCOTT’S SERVICE & AUTO REPAIR 681.230.2151 311C Elk River Road, S., Clendenin SLEEP INN 304.345.5111 2772 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

KNIGHT INSURANCE 304.548.4726 knightinsurance@frontier.com

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AT THE LIBRARY

Libraries are more than just stores of books and knowledge. They are the cornerstone of neighborhoods and communities.

FEBRUARY EVENTS Children & Family Virtual Events Virtual Storytime Wednesdays, Feb. 2 & 9 • 10:30 a.m.

Enjoy a new story with us on Facebook, plus suggestions for other books.

Facebook • Children: Birth-36 Months Write a 5 Word Story Thursdays, Feb. 3, 10, 17 & 24 • 4 p.m.

What’s happening in the wacky picture? Tell us in 5 words!

Facebook • Family 1st Chapter Fridays Fridays, Feb. 4, 11, 18 & 25 • 3 p.m.

Sneak peek of a variety of chapter books.

Facebook • Children: 6-11 Years Kindness Club Storytime and Challenge Saturday, Feb. 12 • 2 p.m.

Enjoy a story about kindness on Facebook.

Then participate in the monthly kindness challenge.

Facebook • Children Family STEM Saturday, Feb. 19 • 2 p.m.

Join us as we explore a science concept! We will read books about the topic covered and show science in action.

Facebook • Family Family Storytime Saturday, Feb. 26 • 2 p.m.

In this storytime, a Children’s librarian will read books and guide participants through rhymes and activities!

Facebook • Family

Adult & Senior Virtual Events Elk Valley Book Club Registration opens: Tuesday, Feb. 8 • 7 pm | Event date: Tuesday, Feb. 15 • 2 p.m.

We will be discussing "At the Wolf's Table" by Rosella Postorino this month.

Zoom • Adults and Seniors

FEB 2022

Virtual Events are hosted online. For more details, visit www.kcpls.org

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304.343.4646 • kcpls.org

Clendenin Branch Hours

Elk Valley Branch Hours

Mon. Tues.

Wed. Thurs.

Fri. Sat. Sun.

Mon. Tues.

Wed. Thurs.

Fri. Sat. Sun.

CLOSED 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Noon - 6 p.m.

10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

CLOSED 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

CLOSED

10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

CLOSED

THE

HUMANITIES CORNER

T

he West Virginia University Humanities Center is sponsoring a new Speakers Series event this month on the WVU Humanities Center YouTube channel and you can attend virtually.

Humanistic STEM Workshop

Hungry Town

February 4, 2022 @ 12:00 PM Greenbrier Room at the Mountainlair (WVU Campus) and Via Zoom

February 28, 2022 @ 7:00 PM Milano Room (WVU Campus)

H STEM is a path blending the study of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics with interest in, and concern for, human affairs, welfare, values, or culture. Goals for participants include an understanding of the humanities through the lens of the STEM disciplines that would not exist without the human focus on the progress of society in the areas of rhetoric, literature, history, philosophy, art, religion, and ethics. Recipients of an NSF Grant focused on Humanistic STEM curriculum, the faculty from ERAU will share from their successful H STEM general education and minor courses.

Jason is the author of two books of fiction, North to Lakeville and Hungry Town. He has worked as a college English instructor for nine years and he is currently a lecturer in Leadership Studies. He is the Assistant Director of Captioning and Interpreting at WVU.

with Debra T. Bourdeau & Beverly L. Wood

Zoom-enabled participation.

For online registration to either event, visit: https://humanitiescenter.wvu.edu/ programs-events/speakers-series

A reading with Jason Kapcala

and Via Zoom

“One October night in the depressed steel town of Lodi, Ohio, two police officers respond to a call about trespassers in the derelict Lodi Steel Machine shop. A chase through the crumbling cathedral of steel columns launches a chain of events that will test the officers’ partnership and leave a boy to fend for himself in a decaying Rust Belt neighborhood choked by joblessness, boredom, and addiction.”

– Jason Kapcala Online Co-sponsored with Eberly College’s Leadership Studies program. Zoom-enabled participation.

Graphic Design Services LOGO & BRAND DEV. WEB DESIGN PRINT & DIGITAL ADS STATIONARY DESIGN CUSTOM TEES FLYER/MAILER DESIGN

Let ’s get started

LITTLESECRETDESIGN.CO

BROCHURE DESIGN MARKETING MATERIAL

And so much more!

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

SOCIAL MEDIA MGT.

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THE

ELK’S COOKBOOK MARRY ME CHICKEN

G

abi Strickland Walker shares a perfect recipe for February: Marry Me Chicken. She said, “I totally understand the name…you make this for a boyfriend and he will be putting a ring on it!

Please note, I will be hiding this recipe from my girls until they are about 30!”

Juicy and tender chicken with lots of delicious sauce to serve atop pasta or mashed potatoes. Gabi says it is easy to make and “the sun-dried tomatoes give it a really nice sweet tang along with a hint of heat from the red pepper flakes.”

FEB 2022

GABI STRICKLAND WALKERS' MARRY ME CHICKEN

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INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

•

1 T Olive Oil

Preheat Oven to 400 degrees • Total cook time 40-45 minutes

•

3-4 Large chicken breasts

Step 1:

•

Salt, Pepper to taste

•

2 Cloves of Garlic (minced)

– In a large oven-safe skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat.

Season chicken generously with salt and pepper and sear until golden brown, about 4-5 minutes per side. Transfer chicken to a plate.

•

1 t Dried Thyme

Step 2:

•

1 t Red Pepper Flakes (you can use ¼ t for less spice)

•

¾ Chicken Broth

– Return skillet to medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Stir in thyme, red pepper flakes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring often.

•

½ C Heavy Whipping Cream

•

½ C Ricotta Cheese

•

½ C Sun-dried Tomatoes (chopped)

•

½ C Grated Parmesan Cheese

•

1 T fresh chopped basil

SERVES 2–4

Step 3: – Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, basil, ricotta cheese, and parmesan cheese. Stir until all combined and until the sauce has returned to simmer. Taste sauce for salt/pepper as desired.

Step 4: – Return chicken to skillet and spoon sauce all over the chicken breasts. Bake until chicken is cooked through, about 15-18 minutes depending on size of chicken breasts.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 14

DISCOVER HOPE COME AND WORSHIP WITH US!

WEDNESDAYS | 6:15 PM

11 AM | Sunday Service 10:15 AM | Coffee Station & Fellowship Pastor Gary Walker | email: pastorgarywalker@gmail.com

5054A Elk River Road, South, Elkview, WV 25071

4626 ELK SHORE DRIVE CHARLESTON, WV 25302

Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

(304) 989-4792

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

SPECIAL VALENTINE’S WEEKEND HOURS: Sat & Sun 9am–3pm | Mon 9am–7pm

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Special Occasions Large assortment of burgers, hand cut fries, hand-dipped corn dogs, the best wings on the River and more!

Full service bar with great beer selections. Pool tables, Large TV's for sports viewing, Karaoke and Live Music!

Family friendly dining hours.

Unlimited 304-965-5434

5106 Elk River Road Elkview, WV 25071 WWW.SPECIAL0CCASIONFLOWERS.COM FOLLOW US ON

FEB 2022

12 MAYWOOD AVENUE W, CLENDENIN, WV 25045 681.230.2061 @paddlersbarandgrill

14

Stay home.

Let the LC come to you!

Delivering expert breastfeeding support to you!

• Home visit by an experienced RN, IBCLC.

• Medela Symphony Pump rentals &Tongue-tie referrals.

• Insurance billing options.

• Daytime, evening & weekend consults available.

Jamie Peden, RN, IBCLC 304-314-4052

209 Washington St. W, Suite 200 Charleston, WV 25302

NEW ONLINE MENU AT GIOVANNISPIZZAPOWER.COM

SOLIDROCK

CONTRACTING

235 ELK RIVER ROAD SOUTH CLENDENIN, WV

548.7002

WV051264

Phil Shaffer

304.444.4288

Tim Shaffer

304.382.7606

Solid Rock Contracting Email: solidrockcontractor@hotmail.com

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

PIZZA POWER

• General Excavation • Land Clearing • Dump Truck Service • Retaining Walls • Underground Utilities • Demolition

15

WINTER WONDERLAND ON THE ELK

A

nd what to our wondering eyes did appear?

How about 9-10.5 inches of snow on January 6, 2022! These photos were shared with us from our Elk River Living reader audience! Enjoy!

Journee Morris, great-great niece of Sherry Maynor Buckner

FEB 2022

Lonnie Lane Comer, great granddaughter of Sherry Maynor Buckner

Tori Williams Nardone & Watson

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Olive & baby Oscar, by Maggie & Joshua Crist

Blake, Dillon, & Ashley Buckner Wehrle

Walter by April Curry

Scarlett & Walter the Pup, by April Curry

Walter, Lab Puppy, by April Curry

Gage and Colton Tawney, sons of Nate & Amy Tawney

Low, Pae, and Ash Walker, daughters of Gary & Gabi Walker

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Photo by Logan Taylor

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FEB 2022

Photo by Byron Young

Remi Warden, daughter of Lowell Warden & Julie Tawney Warden

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Josie Ferris & daddy, Joey (Kelly) Ferris

Photo by Julia Williams Given

Herman & Jeannie Harris Thaxton’s new shelter rescue, Winnie, inside by the fireplace.

Photo by Robert Darrell Whitehair

Wendell, son of Margaret & Bren Pomponio

Honey Pie by Margaret Pomponio

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Sylvie, daughter of Margaret & Bren Pomponio

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* Follow us on Facebook for our Healthy Tip of the Day!

* Flexible hours including evening appointments * New evaluations in 24-48 hours * Located at the Crossings Mall beside Pizza Hut in Elkview!

FEB 2022

304-965-7979

20

What’s Your Favorite Bite?

304.548.7413

1 Cobb Ave Clendenin

11am - 8pm Tues - Sat 12pm - 7pm Sun • CLOSED MON

Rental Cabins Fishing Ponds Petting Zoo Barn Hiking & Biking

Paddleboats Private Hot Tubs Hammocks Firepits & Grills

Pets Welcome

Complimentary doggie beds & treats upon request!

230 WALKER ROAD, NEBO, WV

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

WWW.WALKERCREEKFARMS.COM

21

LOVE WHAT YOU DO & DO WHAT YOU LOVE

FEB 2022

BRANDON HALSTEAD

22

Baseball has always been an integral part of Brandon’s life. It started back with his early support system from his parents, Ronnie and Kay Halstead, and his siblings Chad and Susan Halstead. He said, “My dad coached me until high school and my brother, Chad, was always working with me on throwing and batting. My mom and sister never missed a game and they were always there cheering for me, even when I was only 3 ½ years old and started t-ball! They were my biggest fans.”

Speaking of support systems, Brandon graduated from West Virginia State University (WVSU) in 2007 where he said, “I was able to play baseball for the great Calvin L. Bailey.” He added, “I mention his name every day when I am conducting a clinic or

private lesson. Between him and my high school coach, Billy Jo Hicks of Hurricane High School, my dad, and my brother, I learned from the very best!”

During Brandon’s senior year at Hurricane High School, his team won the 2002 State Championship.

He then attended West Virginia University and played baseball for them his freshman year until that following summer when he suffered a tendon injury in his shoulder. He was able to return to play baseball at Surry Junior College during his sophomore year where he was able to recondition his shoulder and arm. Brandon then transferred to WVSU where he was an All American during both his junior and senior years.

When Brandon first met his wife, Kristen, he said, “I hadn’t played baseball since I left college and I was floundering as to what I wanted to do with my life. It was Kristen who suggested that I return to baseball, only in a different capacity. Instead of a player, I would be a training coach.” Brandon said it was the best decision he could have made and it totally turned his life around. “It gave me purpose;

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

I

f you meet Brandon Halstead of the Athletic Edge Sports Facility, you know within minutes of talking with him that he is totally dedicated to helping children of all ages succeed in baseball or softball. He said, “I am blessed to be in the perfect profession as a sports trainer to give back to the community. I love what I do every day.”

23

lessons for all ages during the year and training camps during the summer.

it has allowed me to share my love of baseball and the skills I learned as a player to benefit the youth of my community.”

FEB 2022

Brandon opened the Athletic Edge Sports Facility in 2017 and in the first month he started his training with 15 kids. By the third month, he had 50 kids on the schedule and today he has over 200. “It has been a true blessing that I believe saved my life. I was lost after baseball and on the wrong path of where I needed to be. It’s funny how baseball saved me right back.”

24

The Athletic Edge Sports Facility is located at 4914 Elk River Road, South (under the Dollar General Store) in Big Chimney/Elkview. Brandon offers private lessons to children 5+ years of age through college. “Grade school, middle school, high school, and even college students train during the year and summer break.” He offers clinics and individual

At his summer camps, Brandon emphasizes proper stretching techniques as well as understanding the proper mechanics of baseball. He said, “I like to observe each player as him/herself. I think it is important to allow kids to develop their talents and not try to frame them according to one way. They aren’t robots and each player has natural abilities that we can work to enhance.” He added that “many times parents see other children as bigger or better, etc. but I think it is important to remember that we all grow as ourselves. Be patient. It is important to get them involved in the right area where they can be successful.”

Brandon emphasized that it is important to teach children how to compete. “You compete “within,” he said. “It is an inner drive and oftentimes you have to put yourself in tough situations until you get out of your comfort zone to excel.”

It is not uncommon to see middle and high school athletes in the facility, working at various drill stations. Brandon said he encourages them to work with the younger athletes. He often has them demonstrate skills and then breaks them into small groups and he oversees them working together. “It also helps athletes learn how to be good teachers and, hopefully later in life, good coaches. They learn how to interact and grow as team players and as individuals.”

If you would like more information on hours and services, contact Brandon at the Athletic Edge

Hafer

Training Facility, 304.415.1228. Winter and spring schedules are available now.

Also coming in February 2022 to the Athletic Edge Training Facility is Rapsoda Hitting 2.0, a new analytical system that brings baseball and softball training inside. It measures optimal tracking of exit speed, total spin rate, launch angle, exit direction and distance and it creates player profiles that allow players and coaches to monitor their progress.

Brandon said, “We are super excited to now be offering this program to the Charleston area. Give me a call for more details.”

Myers Chapel

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Even though Brandon has years of training and draws from his player experience, he never hesitates to call on fellow coaches for help. “I am always willing to learn and when you are working with children and helping them grow the right way, it is good to know we have a support system as coaches. Even though I have been working for 5-6 years on my own, it is important to remember I am never really alone.”

Brandon emphasized that thriving on being a better trainer and a better coach keeps them all growing.

25

STARTS JANUARY 2, 2022

FEB 2022

OPENING JANUARY 3–14 | MONDAY – FRIDAY | 9 AM – 5 PM JANUARY 17 – APRIL 15 | MONDAY – SATURDAY | 8 AM – 8 PM

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ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

love flows on the ELK RIVER

FEB 2022

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and it is a perfect time to shop local and pick out gifts for your valentine. ERL found some great items that will make anyone's day special.

28

Cantrell's Florist

Door Decor & Moore Haley's Candles

7484 Elk River Road, Clendenin 304.548.7700

4952 Elk River Road, Elkview 304.965.2447

Gorgeous dozen/half dozen roses or a Valentine floral arrangement with a free balloon and free local delivery!

Also available is a Valentine’s Day Special that includes one rose in a vase, candy, teddy bear and a mylar balloon in a Valentine's Day Bag.

Check out the super-scented, cracklin-wick, glass heart candles, just in time for Valentine’s Day. While you are there, browse their selection of new picture frames and other charming home decor.

Special Occasions

Puzzled P istols Boutique

5106 Elk River Road, Elkview 304.965.5434

4636 Penn. A ve., Ste. 2, Chas.

304.550.5950

Order early for a Sweetheart Discount and surprise your Valentine with their favorite gifts from Special Occasions Unlimited. Choose from lovely Valentine floral arrangements, Sarris Chocolates, adorable stuffed animals and Inspire Me Bracelets.

Fashion abounds, complete with Valentine sweaters, tunics, sweatshirts and trendy accessories at the new Puzzled Pistols Boutique. Also check out their handmade roses, customized with a name or I Love You.

304.548.7100 (Pamala's) 304.548.8998 (Elk River Fl.)

100 Verna Drive, Elkview ejunescustomer@gmail.com

You can find an array of charming fashion accessories, clothing, and home decor at Pamala’s Gifts and Treasures.

Special Valentine flower arrangements will also be available at Pamala’s and at Elk River Floral LLC

From embroidered tees to Simply Southern, you are sure to fall in love this Valentine’s Day at E. June’s Boutique, featuring gifts for your spouse or your kiddos. Also, sneak over to the private ladies-only lingerie group to grab a few things for yourself as well.

Master Crafters Gift & Primitive Shoppe

Main St. Tees & More

4802 Chimney Drive, Charleston 304.965.6222

3 Main Street, Clendenin 681.208.0238

Pick up a special Candleberry(R) Be My Valentine candle this Valentine’s Day at Master Crafters Gift and Primitives Shoppe. Add a charming I Love You dish towel and an adorable Valentine gnome to complete your gift ensemble.

Beautiful engraved key chains, bracelets, metal, customstamped cards and more!

Make this year’s Valentine’s Day the best with a romantic, personalized gift and add a charming Valentine’s Day t-shirt.

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READER SUBMISSION

FEB 2022

Vanessa Vernacchio and Matt Spangler sent us the perfect Reader’s Submission for February. They have lived in their home at Credemont for 10 years but this year’s 10.5 inches of snow in January highlighted, for the first time, quite the surprise in their backyard.

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If you would like to submit a photo, work of art, short story, poem, hobby - whatever inspires you please reach out to us at elkriverliving.com or contact cyndi@elkriverliving.com

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THE

ELK’S JOURNAL

EXCERPTS FROM LIFE IS BUT A DREAM A short story by Moonwolf (John Ditchman, formerly of Clendenin, WV) Am I a man who dreams he is a cricket? Am I a cricket who dreams he is a man? Is there a difference? And the woman I love, is she just a figment of that dream?

Ever since I can remember, I have had vivid dreams of being a cricket. Eventually, I dreamt that, instead of chirping by rubbing my wings together, I “chirped” by playing a violin. I was, I believe, eight years old when I first picked up a violin in my waking life. To everyone’s surprise, except my own, I could play the instrument. Or, rather, music came from the instrument, not screeching and squawking ala Jack Benny.

My parents rushed me into lessons, where I quickly drove my would-be instructors crazy. I held my instrument and bow the wrong way. I could not be taught to read music, or play someone else’s music. I would play only my own music in my way, and no other. I was, to them, a horrible student unworthy of my gift. But, I continued playing in my own way and style, ignorant of the fine points of the art of Music. Perhaps, I would reason, through the centuries, everyone else was wrong? Or, more likely, there just may be more than one way of doing things?...

I’m not sure when, exactly, the woman began showing up in my dreams. Maybe I was in high school? Maybe she had been there all along and it took me getting older to be aware of her? In the dreams, she would hear the cricket playing and come sit by me. I would hop into her lap, or onto her shoulder and serenade her. She would whisper that she and I were the same, and yet unique. Her name is Selene.

One day, I was playing for a small crowd in the park, and there she was. Selene. The long hair, shining like silver, the hypnotic green eyes. My Selene. Our eyes locked and the others ceased to exist. Never stopping my playing, I made my way to her. I played for her, and for her only.

When I finally stopped, breathless; no feeling left in my fingers, I heard her say, though her lips did not move, “I’ve been searching for you.” ...

“We’re not like other people, you know.” “Yes, I know. We were made for each other.” “Yes” “I want you with me all the time.” “We ARE together all the time. Don’t you realize that?”

“I do now.” “We have never been apart.” ... And then I passed into the reality of dreams. In my dreams, I was a cricket, as usual, playing my violin. I looked for Selene, but could not find her.

But, I could hear her calling. As I played, I noticed a beautiful Luna moth, the same green as Selene’s eyes. It flew around me in a familiar, fluttering dance. The cricket played wildly as the moth fluttered, until both were too tired to continue... It was light when I awoke. I didn’t open my eyes, but felt for Selene. She wasn’t there. Her spot on the bed wasn’t even warm. My eyes flew open. No Selene, but on the pillow next to me, a beautiful, green Luna moth...

FEB 2022

“Am I still dreaming?” I asked aloud. The moth stepped up to my face and caressed my temple in answer. I could hear Selene’s voice. “We are both dreaming all the time.” “But we were both people” “Sometimes we are. Sometimes we are both insects. Usually, though, we are opposite each other. Our cycles are different, as our insect nature is. It is our curse.” “No, we are blessed to have each other.” “Yes” “I love you, whatever your true form.” “I love you, whatever your true form.” “Which is the dream, and which is the real?” “Does it matter? Now that we have each other, we can always be together.” “Yes. I will be the crazy violinist who plays for a moth.” “And I am the crazy lady with a chirping cricket in her hair.” “And on special nights, we will be the cricket and moth dancing in the fairy rings. I have seen Selene, the woman, only in my cricket dreams since that one, beautiful day. And yes, I am the crazy man with a moth on my shoulder. I can’t describe how ecstatic I feel to have found her, to be with her always. Yet, my music has become somber, melancholic, because I love that woman so.

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Is Selene a woman who dreams she is a Luna moth? Is Selene a Luna moth who dreams she is a woman? Is there a difference? And the man who can’t live without her, is he just a figment of that dream?

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33

THE

ELK REFLECTS COACHES LIVE ON THROUGH THEIR ATHLETES

This month we are remembering two great coaches from our Elk River community. Their impact on sports and the leadership they displayed for our children will always be remembered. Rest in Peace and cheer from the Heavens, Coach David Scott “Crow” Hall and Coach Philip Dean “Nip” Anderson.

FEB 2022

COACH DAVID SCOTT HALL

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"

Behind every fearless player is a fearless coach who refused to let them be anything but the best they could be. – Coach Matt Isle

Coach David Scott “Crow” Hall of Elkview was a graduate of Herbert Hoover High School and Glenville State College where he also played baseball.

He served as the wrestling coach for Elkview Middle School and HHHS from 1992-2008. He also coached baseball from 1986-1993 and 2000-2006 and taught at Herbert Hoover until he retired in 2018. He was inducted into the Herbert Hoover Athletic Hall of Fame in 2014. Coach Hall passed away on January 6, 2022. Our prayers and love to his wife, Rebecca; daughters, Lindsay Hanson and Kati (Zach) Null; grandchildren, Austin and Abby Hanson, and extended family and friends.

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Missy Smith and her dad, Nip, by Allison Rager

Coach Philip Dean “Nip” Anderson of Elkview was a 1975 graduate of Herbert Hoover High School and coached softball for Elk District and District 3 from 1989-2002. He coached teams to the Big League World Series in Kalamazoo, MI in 1999 and 2001.

Coach “Nip” was an assistant coach for the University of Charleston from 2004-2006, an assistant coach for WV State University from 2007-2020, and head coach in 2021, winning 3 conference titles. He passed away on October 17, 2021. Our prayers and love to his wife, Regina; son, Philip “Andy” Anderson II; daughter, Missy (Jason), and extended family and family.

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FEB 2022

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ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

ELK

ND THE U O

HHHS's Show Choir Wins Grand Champion

AR

By Lauren Elizabeth Campbell, ERL Contributing Author and Editor-in-Chief of Rock & Roamer magazine. and preparing and planning every second of the show to make sure it ran smoothly, and theming the show around characters who have fought against resistance.

“We have James Bond. We have Katniss Everdeen.

We have from the Pirates of the Caribbean, Jack Sparrow, and we have the end like the Avengers. And so the whole show is based upon being a rebel and a renegade and going for everything and not holding back because of fear,” said Silber.

Herbert Hoover High School’s High Impact Show Choir hosted their annual dinner theater Sunday, Jan. 9 and performed their show “Renegades and Rebels.”

The show choir has been performing the show since late 2021, and the spaghetti dinner provided the opportunity to showcase it to the Elk River community.

To pick the show choir's setlist, Silber imagined different rebel characters and chose songs she felt best represented them. “I literally go through and look up a theme and then I find upbeat songs that you could imagine representing that character and theme," said Silber.

“Our show is about renegades and rebels, and what we've done is take some of the biggest movie-themed rebels and build the show around them,” said Kathy Silber, the show choir’s director.

Guests arrived two hours before the show to eat a spaghetti dinner and purchase chances to win various themed baskets, including pet, cooking, and crafting themes. All proceeds went toward the show choir, including helping with expenses for their upcoming competition performances.

Silber, along with her show choir students, spent months planning for this show, choosing songs, finding sheet music, coming up with the choreography,

FEB 2022

Elk Valley Electric 38

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

On Jan. 15, High Impact traveled to Beavercreek, Ohio and won the grand champion trophy to bring back to the river. High Impact member Alex Kushner also took home the trophy for best performer.

“The week after Beavercreek, we will travel to compete at Poca High School and two weeks after that we're competing at Hurricane High School. Then we travel to Homestead, Indiana; Winfield, and then compete at the state competition at Hurricane High School,” said Silber.

To best keep up with High Impact and learn when you can see them perform next, follow their Instagram account @HHHSHighImpact.

ELK RIVER AUTOMOTIVE SUPPLY 304.965.5312 304.965.8173

GLENN PAULEY, OWNER 5082 ELK RIVER ROAD ELKVIEW, WV 25071

AUTO PLUS PARTS STORE

Located in Big Chimney across from Smiths Grocery & Smiths Hardware

4508 Pennsylvania Ave. Charleston, WV 25302 www.afingrp.com 304-935-2230

AFFILIATED FINANCIAL GROUP Retirement | Insurance | Investments

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Brad McDaniel Director of Life Sales bmcdaniel@afingrp.com 304-553-2812

Advisory services offered through Blackridge Asset Management, LLC, a Registered Investment Adviser. Securities are offered through Peak Brokerage Services, LLC, Member FINRA/SIPC. Blackridge Asset Management, LLC and Affiliated Financial Group are separate and independent entities from Peak Brokerage Services, LLC.

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Randy Young, RFC®,LACP Registered Financial Consultant ryoung@afingrp.com 304-741-3909

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THE

ELK’S STUDENTS

BASKETBALL

FEB 2022

It's been a busy season for the girls and boys basketball teams at EVCS also. The EVCS Middle School girls are 3-3 and the Varsity girls are 11-2.

The EVCS Middle School boys are 0-6 and Varsity is 3-10.

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For over 40 years, our landscape architects have shaped the land where we live, work and recreate.

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ON TARGET

L-R: Brooklyn White, Jakob Shinn, Kara Stephens, & Hunter Fields.

The HHHS Archery team was hitting the bullseye at their first competition since 2020! Not only did they capture a second place finish, they also had second and fourth place awards in high school females, and first and sixth place awards in high school males! The competition was held on January 8 at Elkview Middle School. The team has 28 members and they are excited to kick off their season with a strong start. Coaches are Larry Salisbury and Lori Monk and the teacher sponsor is Denise Agee.

HHHS Wrestling Team Photo by Cindy Derringer

MAT ATTACK

The team took second place at the Braxton County Invitational on January 14-15 and first place as a team at the Pat Vance Invitational on January 7-8 at Nitro High School.

On December 28-29, they competed in the Wheeling Park Duals held at the WesBanco Arena. They went 7-2 and finished ninth out of 32 teams from OH, PA, and WV. Also, on January 5, they competed in the Tri: Wirt County & Ripley at Wirt County High School where they triumphed over Ripley 50-25 and over Wirt County 53-30.

Congratulations to Mason Atkinson on hitting his 100th win at the Wheeling Park Duals and he is still climbing. His high school record is now 106-31.

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Congratulations to the Hoover wrestlers for winning 47-32 over Independence, capturing the Region III State Duals Championship, and qualifying for the Double A State Duals Tournament for the third year in a row. Head coach is Richard Harper and assistant coach is Kurt Dennis.

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HOOP ACTION

FEB 2022

The Huskie boys basketball team is 7-3 so far this season. Victories include Clay County, Pikeview, Sissonville, Buffalo, Nicholas County, and Wayne County, and Pikeview High Schools. The Huskie boys are currently ranked 6th in the State in AAA. Also, congratulations to Devin Hatfield for hitting 1,000 points during the Hoover/Pikeview game!

The girls are 6-5 to date with wins over Chapmanville Regional, Poca, Westside, Sissonville and Clay County High Schools. Head coach is John Vencil and his dad, John Vencil, Sr. Boys Team Photo by Aubrie Abbott of senior Trevor Rager blocking future UVA player and current Gatorade WV Player of the Year, Issac McKneely.

Photo of team at Buffalo High School by Scott Abbott Photo. Girls Team Photos by Scott Abott is senior Caroline Woody making a pass against Logan, and seniors Courtney Dunbar and Sasha Sovetova.

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COLLEGE SIGNINGS Excitement again filled the HHHS Commons Area last month as Maddie Bohan signed with Concord University to play volleyball, Ryan Beasley signed with WVSU to play baseball, and Grayson Buckner signed with Lees-McRae College in NC for softball.

Also signing this fall were Caroline Woody at University of Charleston for softball and Kaylee Chandler at WVSU for soccer.

Bohan and Beasley will be graduating with High Honors this spring from HHHS and Bucker, Woody, and Chandler will be graduating with Highest Honors.

Congrats Ryan

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

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43

AutoPlus_ AUTO PARTS

Elk River Automotive Proudly Serving the Community for Over 27 Years Gary W. Pauley, 11, Owner • New expanded bays • • • • • •

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FEB 2022

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ND THE U O

ELK

Canned Pasta Drive Needs Your Donations

AR Clendenin Branch and Elk Valley Branch Libraries are participating in the Elk River Backpack Blessings (ERBB) Hunger Games Canned Pasta Drive, February 1-28. All donations will be used for school bags and library snack bags.

ERBB creates about 600 bags a week that are given out at local schools in the Elk River area and all of the Kanawha County public branch libraries.

Ellie Teaford, Branch Manager at the Elk Valley Branch Library said, “We are excited to support Elk River Backpack Blessings. They are a wonderful group and, in addition to the food bags they deliver each week, they also provide snack bags for the children at our local libraries."

Please try to stop in during the month of February to donate canned pasta meals such as SpaghettiOs, Ravioli, etc. All donations will go to ERBB.

HUNGER GAMES CANNED PASTA DRIVE Drop off February 1 - 28, 2022 at Clendenin or Elk Valley

FEB 2022

Beck y’s Pet Parlor

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WALNUT CREEK MEAT, CHEESE and PRODUCTS DELIVERY NOW AVAILABLE!

14 MAIN STREET CLENDENIN, WV 25045

304.543.9930

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304 951 9162 166 North Pinch Road Elkview, WV 25071

23 YEARS IN BUSINESS

ROAD SERVICE KEY LOCK-OUT

MITCH YOUNG

M MATICS

Funeral Home Charles L. “Sonny” Matics, Owner Anthony R. “Tony” Matics, Licensed Dir. 8539 ELK RIVER ROAD NORTH CLENDENIN, WV 25045 maticsfuneralhome@suddenlink.net 304.548.6611

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ELK RIVER LIVING

You deserve to live free of muscle and joint pain.

Get back to life as usual with professional care from Elk River Chiropractic.

Dr. Anthony “Scott” Collias 4710 Chimney Drive, Suite D Charleston, WV 25302

304.965.2458

Hours: Mon., Wed., Thurs. 8 am -12 noon, and 2 pm - 6 pm COVID Regulations in Effect to Protect Patients and Staff