Elk River Living Magazine | Volume 04 | Issue 03 | March 2022

VOLUME 04 | ISSUE 03 | MAR 2022 FREE

Elk River

20 22

Celebrating Five Years BoxDrop Mattress and Furniture Outlet is celebrating their Fifth Anniversary and Grand Opening at their new location.

Honoring a Soldier Aedan Abbott and his grandfather, Gary Ross, maintain the grave of Benjamin F. Slack, a Civil War Union soldier.

expo

MUSKIE CLUB

All Aboard!

The Kanawha Valley Railroad Association is sponsoring the 16th Annual Model Train and Craft Show on March 12-13.

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

CONTACT Mike Haynes, Manager | Cathy Wild, Assistant

3

95 CASDORPH RD, CHARLESTON 304.342.8200

WEST VIRGINIA'S DEMOLITION EXPERTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

16

Honoring a Soldier Pinch Elementary Fourth-Grade Student Cares for Civil War Union Soldier's Gravesite "Don't worry, sir. We won't lose you again."

– Aeden Abbott

06

Welcome

08

Our Proud Sponsors

12

The Elk's Cookbook:

30

Reader's Submission

34

Elk Reflects

40

The Elk's Students

22

Baked Steak & Gravy

FEATURE STORY

Muskie Mania The annual Elk River Muskie Club Expo is a great reason to visit the charming town of Clendenin plus check out the latest muskie lures and accessories.

28

Celebrating Five Years on the Elk River BoxDrop Furniture & Mattress Outlet's selection of in-store merchandise and discount prices are reasons to celebrate every day, but especially during their anniversary and grand opening.

FROM THE EDITOR

HELLO & Welcome Back!

As of March 1, I am the first to announce “spring is right around the corner.” True or not, that is what pulls me through any leftover days of winter until the forsythia starts to bud.

This month we are honored to bring you a special article featuring Gary Ross and his 10 yearold grandson, Aedan Abbott. They dedicate their time to be unofficial caretakers of a Civil War Union soldier's gravesite at Blue Creek. When Gary and Aedan cleaned away the brush and debris and located the grave, Aedan’s touching words were: “We found you buddy. We aren’t going to lose you again.”

We are excited to feature BoxDrop Mattress and Furniture Outlet, located at the Mink Shoals Plaza (across from Harding’s Family Restaurant), as they celebrate their Fifth Anniversary and Grand Opening of their new space. Also this month, we bring you highlights from the Elk River Muskie Club 2022 which was hosted at the Koontz Gym in Clendenin. Talk about a success: it had over 500 attendees and 30 vendors!

The Elk River students are all wrapping up their winter sports and it is officially time for spring sports. This month check out the article by Stephanie Clark, Athletic Trainer at Elk Valley Physical Therapy and Herbert Hoover High School, for tips on preventing sport injuries. Practices are already happening and we are excited to be back on the baseball/ softball fields again watching our grandkids. Last summer someone asked me where Ken and I had vacationed because we had such nice suntans to which I laughed and replied, “The bleachers at the ballfields.” We wouldn’t want it any other way.

Also, as the weather begins to warm, it’s time to check the air in your bike tires, dust off your tennis shoes, and get ready to hit the trail. Clendenin is excited to have the newest section of the trail open, from the water plant in the upper end of town to Queen Shoals. Nothing chases away the winter doldrums like getting outside and feeling the early sun on your face.

We made it through another winter even though our hearts have been heavy for many families and friends. Remember to take the time to send an email or card to those who need an extra hug. It’s the little things that let someone know you are thinking about them.

Much love to all,

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: Hand-crafted muskie lures from RiverRunner Baits, LLC (Brian Collins) from Newton, WV, featured at the Elk River Muskie Club Expo 2022.

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!

J. Craig Allison

Scott Abbott

Tim Cunningham

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

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

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’s

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

DEAN JEFFRIES, STATE FARM 304.965.7024 85 Credes Landing, Elkview

ELK VALLEY PHYSICAL THERAPY 304.965.7979 contact Andi Geary, MPT

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

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

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

DOOR DECOR & MORE 304.965.2447 4952 Elk River Rd, Elkview

ELITE ROOFING 304.989.4792 5054 A Elk River Rd., S, Elkview www.eliteroofingwv.com

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 BOXDROP MATTRESS & FURNITURE OUTLET 304.590.6094 2777 Pennsylvania Avenue, Charleston (Mink Shoals Exit 1)

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

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

CANTRELL’S FLORIST 304.548.7700 7484 Elk River Rd, Clendenin

ELK VALLEY ELECTRIC 304.419.5337 www.elkvalleyelectric.com

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

CENTRAL WV AGING SERVICES 304.965.9081 Local Charleston Office

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)

CREDE TRACTOR 304.965.1666 contact William Crede

There’s no place like home!

HOLSTEIN INSURANCE 304.965.9941 holsteininsuranceagencyinc.com

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 MOMMA PAYNE’S DINER 304.543.9930 14 Main St, Clendenin

SLEEP INN 304.345.5111 2772 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston

MOSS TREE SERVICE LLC 304.965.8095 www.mosstreeservice.com

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

MOUNTAINEER AUCTION 304.548.4056 contact Roger Mullins

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

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 Ave., 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

LITTLE SECRET DESIGN CO. 304.427.6797 www.littlesecretdesign.co

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

LOGAN TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY Call or Text 304.941.7622 @logantaylorphotagraphy

RODNEY LOFTIS & SON 304.342.8200 & on Facebook 95 Casdorph Rd., Charleston

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

MATICS FUNERAL HOME 304.548.6611 maticsfuneralhome.com

ROGERS HARDWARE 304.965.1077 Contact Bill Rogers

MEADOWBROOK ACRES NURSING CENTER 877.474.7332 www.meadowbrookacres.net

SCOTT’S SERVICE & AUTO REPAIR 681.230.2151 311C Elk River Road, S., Clendenin

JONES AUTO & TRUCK REPAIR 304.965.6180 jonesautotruckrepair@gmail.com JONES EXCAVATING 304.965.6180 jonesexcavatingofcharleston.com KEITH'S AUTO PARTS 304.548.7627 | 1-800-RACE-A-VW VW Specialists 6328 Elk River Rd, N. Clendenin KNIGHT INSURANCE 304.548.4726 knightinsurance@frontier.com KNIGHTHORST 877.474.7332 www.knighthorst.com THE LACTATION CONSULTANT NETWORK Jamie Peden, RN, IBCLC 304.314.4052 209 Washington St. W, Ste. 200

MITCH’S 24 HR TOWING 304.965.6646 contact Mitch Young

XSPEC POWER 304.746.1139 contact Emily Canterbury

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

IDEAL PROTEIN 304.344.9077 Charleston Family Chiropractic 308 Patrick St. Plaza, Charleston

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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.

MARCH EVENTS Elk Valley Library Children & Family Events Seuss-tastic Silhouettes March 1-5 • Available all day Drop by the Dr. Seuss display to see if you can guess the Seuss characters from their outlines. Grab a coloring sheet or two and a craft kit to-go while you're here!

Tiny Art Kits/Display Kits available March 1 • While supplies last.

It's time to get crafty for Youth Art Month! Pick up a kit with all of the supplies you will need to create a miniature work of art on canvas. Once you've created your masterpiece, bring it back to the library to be added to our display.

Spring Break Grab-n-Go Activities March 7-12 During the week of Spring Break a different grab-n-go activity will be available for you to drop in and pick up.

Monday: Grab-n-Go Games Binder Kit includes durable binder, game pages, page protectors, and dry erase markers, so games are reusable.

Tuesday: STEM DIY: Oobleck Kit Have fun making and experimenting with the mysterious ooey, gooey, yet hard substance of Oobleck.

Wednesday: Simple Quilling Kit Kit will include supplies to make a couple of simple quilling art projects.

Quilling is the art of using rolled, shaped, and glued paper to create art.

Thursday: DIY Balloon Rocket Kit Get psyched for STEM by picking up a kit to make a balloon rocket.

This activity will allow you to explore Newton's Third Law that says "for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction."

Friday: Plant a Seed Kit In honor of Plant a Flower Day on March 12, stop by to pick up a kit that will have all the supplies you will need to plant some flower seeds.

MAR 2022

Spring Celebration: Bird Feeders Available March 21 • While supplies last Stop by to pick up a bird feeder kit. You will use a cardboard tube, vegetable shortening, bird seed, string, and a dowel rod to make a bird feeder to welcome the birds back for Spring.

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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.

Wheeling's Polonia:

Reconstructing Polish Community in a West Virginia Steel Town Author Event With William Hal Gorby Monday, March 7th @ 7:00 PM | Milano Room & via Zoom Wheeling was a center of West Virginia’s labor movement, and Polish immigrants became a crucial element within the city’s active workingclass culture. Arriving at what was also the center of the state’s Roman Catholic Diocese, Poles built religious and fraternal institutions to support new arrivals and to seek solace in times of economic strain and family hardship. The city’s history of crime and organized vice also affected new immigrants, who often lived in neighborhoods targeted for selective enforcement of Prohibition. At once a deeply textured evocation of the city’s ethnic institutions and an engagement with larger questions about belonging, change, and justice, Wheeling’s Polonia is an inspiring account of a diverse working-class culture and the immigrants who built it.

Co-sponsored with WVU’s Eberly College's Department of History.

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

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

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LITTLESECRETDESIGN.CO

BROCHURE DESIGN MARKETING MATERIAL

And so much more!

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

SOCIAL MEDIA MGT.

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THE

ELK’S COOKBOOK

G

BAKED STEAK & GRAVY

abi Strickland Walker of Walker Mt. Eats says baked steak is a major comfort food! There is nothing quite like a delicious beef gravy with tender cubed steak that melts in your mouth. This month we are featuring her delicious baked steak recipe, which can be made in a crock pot or the oven. She says, “What I do in the crockpot is a little different than the baked steak method. Either are delicious. By the way, you can also make the oven version in the crock pot. It is Gary’s favorite! I prefer the crock pot version with the creamier gravy, but you won’t go wrong with either recipe!”

MAR 2022

GABI STRICKLAND WALKERS' BAKED STEAK (CROCK POT RECIPE)

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INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

•

1 packet of au jus gravy mix

Set Crockpot on Low • Total cook time 6-8 hours

•

1 can Cream of Chicken Soup plus 1 can of water (or beef broth)

Step 1:

•

1 can French Onion Soup plus 1 can of water (or beef broth)

•

1 ½ - 2 lbs. cubed (minute) steak

•

1 C flour

•

Salt/Pepper to taste

•

Oil

•

½ C heavy whipping cream

SERVES 2–4

– Dredge cubed steak in flour, seasoned with salt and pepper, and fry in oil in a large skillet over med/high heat until each side is browned, but the steak is not completely cooked. You just want a nice, browned, crispy crust on each piece of steak.

Step 2: – Spray the inside of your crock pot with non-stick cooking spray. Add ingredients and water, stir to mix. Add browned cubed steak to the crock pot and let cook 6-8 hours on low.

(Check about half way through and add more water or beef broth (about ½ C more) if necessary.

Note – Thirty minutes before you are ready to serve, stir in ½ C of heavy whipping cream.

GABI STRICKLAND WALKERS' BAKED STEAK (OVEN RECIPE) INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

•

3 packets of au jus gravy mix

Preheat Oven to 350 degrees • Total cook time 3-4 hours

•

1 packet of brown gravy mix

Step 1:

•

Enough water (or beef stock) per package directions.

•

2 lbs. cubed steak

•

1 C flour

•

Salt/Pepper to taste

•

Mushrooms (Optional)

SERVES 2–4

– Spray a deep 9 x 13 baking dish (it is easier to use a disposable aluminum pan from the grocery store, either the large lasagna pan or the roasting pan) Dredge cubed steak in flour, seasoned with salt and pepper, and fry in oil in a large skillet over med/ high heat until each side is browned, but the steak is not completely cooked. You just want a nice, browned, crispy crust on each piece of steak.

– Add browned steak to the pan. Whisk gravy packets with water or beef stock per package instructions, but DO NOT cook. Pour gravy mixture over steak. Add mushrooms (optional) Step 3: – Cover with aluminum foil and let cook for 3-4 hours, checking about every hour and adding water or beef stock if gravy is getting too thin. Check the steak for tenderness.

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Step 2:

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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.

MAR 2022

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

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MARCH 2 & MARCH 16 AT 5:30 PM

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

HONORING A SOLDIER Pinch Elementary Fourth-Grade Student Cares for Civil War Union Soldier’s Gravesite

By Lauren Elizabeth Campbell, ERL Contributing Author and Editor-in-Chief of Rock & Roamer magazine.

A

edan Abbott, a fourth-grade student at Pinch Elementary, has been taking care of the Civil War gravesite of Benjamin F. Slack - a Civil War Union soldier in the Fourth Infantry, Bo-Z Unit who died at 18 years old in battle.

Reading the "I Survived" Scholastic book series

by Lauren Tarshis, Abbott began to love and appreciate history. The book series follows child characters living through historical events, and "I Survived the Battle of Gettysburg, 1963" details the Civil War from the perspective of a young slave who befriends a Union soldier.

Abbott's grandfather, Gary Ross, who has been helping him take care of Slack's grave, knew of the site because he used to take care of it years ago and took Abbott to see it after reading the "I Survived" book.

"I took care of it when I was a 30-year-old kid… And I told Aedan I knew of a Civil War gravesite, and he couldn't believe it; he said, 'No, you don't,' and I took him here to show him the site and the whole area was overgrown, and Aedan said, 'we need to take care of this site,'" said Ross.

Abbott believes it's essential to take care of the site so people do not forget Slack and why he fought.

MAR 2022

"This site goes all the way back to the 1800s, and I just think it's nice to remember that he served and that he is not forgotten," said Abbott.

16

On Elk River Road North, Slack's gravesite, across the street from the former post office in Blue Creek, is likely located in the backyard of where his parents lived.

"There used to be a bunch of old houses around here. And he died in battle. But this is not where

he actually died, and this is, I'm guessing, where his parents lived, and they buried him in their backyard," said Abbott.

Ross says Slack's story is rare, as most soldiers who died in battle were buried in mass graves.

"A lot of times when the boys went off, their mothers never knew what happened to them. If 10,000 of them were killed, they buried them where they were. So these women went to their graves years later, never knowing what happened to their babies," said Ross.

"We plan to put up a white fence around it, put in a bench, and clear the rest of it out to make it look better," said Abbott.

They plan to place a plaque near the gravesite to advise that it is under Abbott's care, and to provide their contact information for anyone who would like to donate to help maintain the gravesite.

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Abbott and his grandfather spent last summer cutting down the overgrown area and are now thinking of ways to beautify the graveyard.

17

MAR 2022

Hafer

18

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

Myers Chapel

Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

(304) 989-4792

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

“Affiliated with several major companies to help provide the Best solutions”

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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WALNUT CREEK MEAT, CHEESE and PRODUCTS DELIVERY NOW AVAILABLE!

14 MAIN STREET CLENDENIN, WV 25045

304.543.9930

Beck y’s Pet Parlor

Rebecca L. Briles & Kaitlyn M. Truman PROFESSIONAL DOG GROOMERS

304 951 9162

MAR 2022

166 North Pinch Road Elkview, WV 25071

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

MAR 2022

MUSKIE MANIA!

22

More than 30 vendors and over 500 attendees from 6 different states came to browse the different vendor exhibits. Vice President of the Club and Clendenin Town Councilman, Dave Knight, said, “We look forward to hosting this fundraising event every year. Not only is it great for attendees, but it also showcases our wonderful town of Clendenin and benefits the local businesses here.”

Kevin Amey of Grim Reaper Lures in Cochranville, PA, has been a vendor at the Expo for two years.

Their large exhibit features spinner baits and handtied bucktails. Kevin said, “Clendenin is a beautiful area to visit and we love networking with the different vendors and meeting fishermen/women who know our baits or who are just learning about them for the first time at the show.”

Bill and Sharon Crane of Crane Baits from Friendly, WV, Bill Looney of Amma Bamma Lures in Amma, WV, and Lloyd Jones of Jones Baits in Pennsboro, WV are long-time muskie exhibitors. Mark Shafer, President of the Elk River Muskie Club, said, “Bill

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

T

he Koontz Gym in Clendenin was packed with vendors at the annual Elk River Muskie Club Expo. This is the eighth year the Club has hosted the event, which was held on Saturday, February 5, 2022.

23

Crane has been making custom-made fishing lures for many years. Both Crane Baits and Amma Bamma Lures are in the Muskie Hall of Fame and were two of the oldest hand-crafted lure manufacturers at our Expo.”

MAR 2022

Matt Blackburn of Crash’s Landing traveled to the Expo from Cave Run Lakes, KY and some of the other large exhibitors included Widowmaker Muskie Lures, Fat Belly Baits, Boggs Custom Lures, Chubby Chasers Custom Bucktails, and Beauzooka Baits. Some local exhibitors at the Expo were Brian Collins of RiverRunner Baits, LLC, Tim Woodyard of Elk River Lures, and Mark Smith of Smutley Dog Baits.

24

Last year the event was canceled due to COVID. The Elk River Muskie Club has donated to the Department of Natural Resources to help improve Elk River access and has partnered with Rodney Loftis and Son to update the Clendenin and Blue

Creek Public Accesses. They have also donated to the Elk River Cleanup and to the Elk River trout stockings. J. E. White, Secretary/Treasurer of the Club, said, “The Club plans to continue to donate to improve river access, especially with the addition of the newest Elk River Trail trailhead in Clendenin that runs from Clendenin to Queen Shoals, and the Division of Natural Resources (DNR) public boat launches at north Clendenin, south Clendenin, Blue Creek, Bream, and Mink Shoals.”

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

For more information on the Elk River Muskie Club and next year’s Expo, contact Mark Shafer at mshafer1961@gmail.com.

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STARTS JANUARY 2, 2022

MAR 2022

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

26

It’s Time for

DISCOVER HOPE

HERBERT HOOVER HIGH SCHOOL PROM

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SATURDAY, APRIL 30

ORDER EARLY!

Come to Cantrell’s Florist to be fitted for your tuxedo & select your style. We have all of your prom & corsage needs!

304.548.7700 | 7484 ELK RIVER RD, CLENDENIN

WEDNESDAYS | 6:15 PM

11 AM | Sunday Service 10:15 AM | Coffee Station & Fellowship Pastor Gary Walker | email: pastorgarywalker@gmail.com 4626 ELK SHORE DRIVE CHARLESTON, WV 25302

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ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

PROM SPECIAL

Order your tuxedo with Cantrell’s & receive a 10% discount on your flowers.

27

CELEBRATING FIVE YEARS ON THE ELK RIVER!

B

oxDrop Mattress and Furniture Outlet, located at the Mink Shoals Plaza (across from Harding’s Family Restaurant), is celebrating their Fifth Anniversary and Grand Opening of their new space.

MAR 2022

Their selection of in-store merchandise and discount prices are reasons to celebrate every day, but especially during their anniversary and grand opening which will be held the weekend of March 11, 12, and 13. Register now for a drawing for a brand new queen mattress set!

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When you walk in the door of BoxDrop Mattress and Furniture Outlet, you instantly know you are at a family-run business. You are greeted by Mike Haynes, manager, and his assistant, Cathy Wild. Both of them can help you view the merchandise and decide which best fits your needs.

Mike said, “We have carried mattresses for five years, but in November of 2021 we moved into the former

They carry sofas, love seats, recliners, and sectionals in addition to their mattresses. Their mattress selections include all sizes and styles: pillow top, gel hybrid, memory foam, inner spring and adjustable bases. “All of our merchandise is new, sealed in plastic, and comes with a warranty. The best part, however, is the price. We offer prices 40-70% below the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP),” said Mike.

BoxDrop Mattress and Furniture Outlet started out with one store, Charleston Furniture Direct in Nitro,

nine years ago, and now they have stores at four locations: Mink Shoals, Ripley, Parkersburg, and Nitro. They take pride in offering a wide variety of merchandise at prices you can afford.

Their hours of operation are Wednesday through Saturday from 12 Noon to 6 PM and on Sunday from 1-4 PM. Stop by their Mink Shoals location at 2777 Pennsylvania Avenue, Charleston (right off the I-79 Mink Shoals Exit 1) and browse their store and you will see why everyone is talking about BoxDrop Mattress and Furniture Outlet.

You can contact them at 304.590.6094 or see more on their Facebook/Charleston Furniture Direct - Mink Shoals or at https://www.charlestonfurnituredirect. com.

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Gabby’s Sewing location, and now we have room to carry an array of living room furniture as well.” They have in-stock merchandise, ready for pick-up and delivery to your home. They also offer financing as well.

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READER SUBMISSION

MAR 2022

This month’s reader submissions are from Tony Wayne Davis and his wife, Diana Rae Davis. These photos were taken on New Hope Road in Elkview, WV.

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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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ELK’S JOURNAL ERIC DOUGLAS RELEASES 11 TH NOVEL Author Eric Douglas has released the 11th novel in the popular Mike Scott thriller series: Held Hostage: Search for the Juncal.

This story takes place primarily off the coast of Mexico as competing groups search for a Spanish shipwreck sunk nearly 400 years ago. The Nuestra Señora del Juncal is a real treasure ship lost in a storm off the coast of Campeche. The Mexican and Spanish governments are currently searching for it.

Douglas’ Mike Scott character is a photojournalist who travels the world telling stories for a magazine.

All of the Mike Scott thriller novels feature the ocean, scuba diving, exotic locations and the environment.

Eric Douglas has been a journalist and writer his entire professional career. Born and raised in West Virginia, he learned to scuba dive in Summersville Lake before moving to California and North Carolina to work in scuba diving. He became a dive instructor and diver medic along the way and has also written about diving for several magazines, including the ongoing Lessons for Life column with Scuba Diving Magazine.

Held Hostage is Douglas’s 23rd book overall including fiction and nonfiction works. He estimates he has written nearly one million words in the Mike Scott series. The book is now available in softcover and on Kindle.

MAR 2022

“Photojournalist Mike Scott is about to get married to the woman he loves — archeologist Frankie DeMarco — but her kidnapping sets Mike on a collision course with the treasure hunter who took her. The man wants Frankie’s help finding a 400-year-old shipwreck, so Mike sets out to find it first to get her back safely. Word of a secret cargo on board raises the stakes even higher.”

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Find out more at booksbyeric.com

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THE

ELK REFLECTS

“PANT-SUITS OR JEANS: DON’T ABUSE YOUR NEW PRIVILEGE, GIRLS” –THE HHHS HISTORIAN NOVEMBER 6, 1970 Richard Bashlor, volunteer at the historical Museum of The Elk River Communities in Kanawha County, shared

MAR 2022

a great 1970’s review and discussion on girls being able to wear pantsuits to school. These were featured in the HHHS Historian in 1970. #throwbacktotheseventies

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–From the editor

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"This was in my lifetime!"

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MAR 2022

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Softball/Baseball Injuries:

Tips to keep You in the Game

AR MAR 2022

Submitted by Stephanie Clark, athletic trainer at Elk Valley Physical Therapy and Herbert Hoover High School. She graduated in 2014 with a Master's in Athletic Training from West Virginia Wesleyan College. In 2017, Stephanie was awarded West Virginia Athletic Trainer of the Year from the West Virginia Athletic Trainers' Association.

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It’s March and for many young athletes that means baseball/softball season! In fact, over 10 million children and adolescents play baseball/softball each year in the United States. While it is a great way to stay active, injuries can occur. The most common injuries are sprains, strains, cuts, and contusions.

Although it is a non-contact sport, sometimes serious injuries occur due to impact with a ball, bat, or another player. There are also injuries caused by overuse motions.

Even though it is impossible to avoid every single injury in athletics, overuse injuries are preventable.

Some tips from the Andrews Sports Medicine Institute and Elk Valley Physical Therapy to keep you in the game throughout your life include:

Shoulder and elbow overuse injuries are very common in baseball athletes due to the repetitive nature of the sport. Overuse injuries are becoming more common among youth baseball pitchers as games are played year-round and leave little time for rest. The most common overuse injuries are ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) sprains and rotator cuff strains. Overuse and stress related problems can also affect growing parts of bone. A study performed by the University of California in 2018 showed 52% of asymptomatic Little League pitchers had abnormalities on an MRI of their dominant shoulder and the dominant shoulder was 8.5 times more likely to sustain an injury when they began early specialization in baseball.

– Concentrate on age-appropriate pitching.

Currently, more youth pitchers are undergoing Tommy John surgery. Tommy John surgery is performed frequently on major league baseball players, but has never been a normal surgery for athletes in middle or high school. This procedure requires months of rehabilitation after surgery.

– Warm up properly by stretching, running, and easy, gradual throwing.

– Rotate playing other positions besides pitcher.

– Adhere to pitch count guidelines, such as those established by Little League Baseball.

– Avoid pitching on multiple teams with overlapping seasons.

– Don’t pitch with elbow or shoulder pain.

– Don’t pitch on consecutive days.

– Don’t play year-round. Do play different sports or take long breaks.

– Communicate regularly about how your arm is feeling and if there is pain.

– Emphasize control, accuracy, and good mechanics over velocity.

– Master the fastball first and the change-up second, before considering breaking pitches.

– Speak with a sports medicine professional or athletic trainer if you have any concerns about injuries or prevention strategies.

If your athlete finds themselves having a sportsrelated injury or pain, Elk Valley Physical Therapy offers free injury evaluations for area athletes. Skip the long waits at the emergency room or urgent care for non-emergency injuries.

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

Final Signups!

THE CLENDENIN LITTLE LEAGUE IS CONDUCTING THE LAST WEEK OF TBALL, BASEBALL AND SOFTBALL SIGNUPS THE FIRST WEEK OF MARCH!

REGISTRATION LOCATION CLENDENIN LITTLE LEAGUE FIELD

FINAL DATES MARCH 1 & 3 | 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM MARCH 5 | 10 AM - 4 PM

ITEMS TO BRING BIRTH CERTIFICATE PROOF OF ADDRESS DRIVER’S LICENSE *CLENDENIN LITTLE LEAGUE IS NOT AFFILIATED WITH KANAWHA OR ROANE COUNTY SCHOOLS

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR WOULD LIKE MORE INFORMATION

TEXT OR CALL

(304)807-0652

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Athletes will be treated by sports medicine specialists who can help get them back in the game and prevent future injuries. Elk Valley Physical Therapy is conveniently located in the Crossings Mall in Elkview.

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ELK’S STUDENTS

HOOVER GOES RED In honor of “Go Red” Day for the American Heart Association, HHHS students celebrated by wearing red, drinking hot chocolate, and eating healthy snacks. February is American Heart Month. Pictured is Senior Caroline Woody.

HHHS HITS THE BULLSEYE HHHS Archers brought home first place on February 12 at Poca High School with a season high score. Tyler Cummings had the top score for the high school male division and Eli Youell and Jacob Vaughan finished 7th and 8th.

Also, at the Upshur County Homeschool Archery Association (UCHAA) Tournament on Saturday, January 30, the Hoover Archers captured first place. Individual winners were Lauren Mullins (2nd), Kara Stephens (3rd), Tyler Cummings (2nd), Hunter Fields (5th), and Eli Youell (6th).

They also had another first place victory at the Grace Christian School event. Individual winners were Brooklyn White (4th), Kara Stephens (5th), Eli Youell (4th), and Hunter Fields (6th). Also, the team placed second at Riverside High School with individual winners: Kara Stephens (2nd), Lauren Mullins (3rd), Jakob Shinn (8th), and Michael Slack (10th).

MAR 2022

RECOGNIZING DEVIN HATFIELD

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The HHHS Basketball win against Pikeview was double special for senior Devin Hatfield.

Not only did HHHS win 65-56, but Devin scored his 1000th point during the game. Coach Josh Stricker presented Devin with an award recognizing his rare accomplishment at the Hoover versus Chapmanville game on January 19, 2022. (Photo by Tim Cunningham) Also, congratulations to Devin Hatfield for signing with the University of Charleston to further his football career and his education.

ELK RIVER WRESTLERS The Elkview Middle School wrestling team finished fourth in the County Tournament. Individual placers were Bryson Young, 2nd; Kell Taylor, 2nd; Dalton Myers, 2nd; Elijah Franklin, 2nd; Laiken Carter, 3rd; Alex Arbogast, 3rd; Jamil Forney 3rd; Aaron Nash 3rd; Matt Kidd, 4th; Blake Goff, 4th; Tristin Shaffer, 4th, and Preston Rhodes, 4th.

HHHS Wrestler’s are your 2022 AA WV State Dual Championship runner-ups!

Team Photo by Jamie Estep of Impact Pix. Congratulations to Mason Atkinson for receiving the Most Outstanding Wrestler Award at the 2022 AA WV State Dual Championship (Photo by Scott Abbott). Also, congrats to Hoover’s wrestlers Wyatt Baldwin and Dylan Corbin on 100 wins! Wrestling seniors include Jonathan Pauley, Dylan Corbin, Wyatt Baldwin, and Zakarie Bailey.

Last, but certainly not least, congratulations to The Lead Dog Youth Wrestling Team. They are the new Mountain State Conference Champions.

PROMOTING FOOTBALL FUNDAMENTALS WV ALL-STATE CHORUS Congratulations to Jacob Westfall, Alexa Sekercak, Landon George, Allison Miller and Meredith Frame from HHHS for auditioning and being selected for the 2022 WV All-State Chorus.

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Joey Fields is the new president of the Elk River Huskies Youth Football League. He said, “Thanks to Gene George for this continued commitment to the kids of The River for making this possible.” Coach Fields is the football coach at Herbert Hoover High School and is one of the only high school coaches who runs their local youth league. “We hope to continue to grow this league into one of the best, and it will be a springboard for the future of our HHHS program, literally building it from the ground up.”

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THE ELK'S STUDENTS

EVCS RUNNER UP! The Elk Valley Christian Middle School Lady Eagles captured second place at the West Virginia Christian Athletic Tournament ( WVCAT) 2022 Middle School tournament. They were defeated by Calvary 35-26 in the finals. EVCS defeated Wood County 31-25 to advance to the finals. Way to go girls!

MAR 2022

Photos by Alycen Swor

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MAR 2022

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Save the Date!

March 12-13 Model Trains & Crafts Show

By Lauren Elizabeth Campbell, ERL Contributing Author

AR MAR 2022

and Editor-in-Chief of Rock & Roamer magazine.

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All aboard! The Kanawha Valley Railroad Association is sponsoring the 16th Annual Model Train and Craft Show in March! With more than 50 vendors and 200 tables for trains and crafts, it is sure to be a festive, family-fun weekend . This year the show is being held at The Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center, located at 200 Civic Center Drive in Charleston on March 12 and 13, 2022. The hours of the show are Saturday the 12th from 10 AM to 5 PM and Sunday the 13th from 10 AM to 3 PM. Admission is $5 and children under 12 are free.

The members of the Kanawha Valley Railroad Association are model railroading enthusiasts

with a passion for preserving railroad history. At their Coonskin Park location, they have a 30’ x 50’ HO Scale construction in 1998 that operates with a NCE digital command control. They have a smaller 4’ x 12’ N Scale layout with model trains traveling through the mountains of West Virginia. For area train shows, they have a 15’ x 20’ modular layout display.

Make plans now to take the family and see the many train exhibits at the Model Train and Craft Show during the weekend of March 12 and 13! It’s a great time to explore our history through model trains.

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