Elk River Living | Volume 05 | Issue 03

ELK RIVER LIVING

The Holbert's are ROLLIN' SMOKE on the Elk River p.22

New Herbert Hoover High School Sneak Peek p.28

HELLO & Welcome Back!

While Wednesday is often considered hump day for the week, March is the month I consider to be hump month, leaving winter weather behind. I know we may get a surprise snow shower here and there and the temperature ranges sporadically from 25 to 70 degrees, but still, spring is so close I can taste it in the air.

Speaking of Spring, check out our new The Elk’s Garden which debuts in this issue! So many of us are growing a large or at least a small vegetable garden and we can learn valuable tips from our seasoned gardeners. This month focuses on deciding what you want to plant, purchasing your seeds, and getting your containers ready for the tender seeds that will need to be started indoors. We need your input each month to help make The Elk’s Garden a valuable resource for the Elk River. Email or text us photos, canning recipes and advice, recipes using fresh veggies, rings, lids, and jars info, preparing your garden space, weeding…right down to where you store your canned goods. We want you to share it all!! cyndi@elkriver.com or 304.546.9243.

This month Tim Cunningham of Tim’s Takes Photography captured a pictorial tour of the new HHHS for our ERL readers. We have all wanted a glimpse of the inside of the building and to see the progress to date. Thank you, Tim, for the great photos and we will look forward to more photos as the opening date approaches!. Also new at Big Chimney, Matt and Nikki Holbert are the proud owners of Rollin’ Smoke BBQ, an Elk River favorite. They have exciting plans for Rollin’ Smoke BBQ this summer, including a dock, picnic tables and even a playground for the kids.

Take a deep breath and remember to look for the glass half full and not half empty! A positive attitude is contagious and we all are looking forward to a marvelous spring. Bring on the daffodils and crocuses--a splash of color on this brown earth will be a welcoming sight for sure.

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

cyndi@elkriverliving.com 304.546.9243

Cyndi Tawney Editor In Chief / Ken Tawney Operations Director / Josh Tawney Creative Director / Printer / The Printing Press Charleston, WV

Layout & Design / Katheryne E. Popp Little Secret Design Co.

ON THE COVER

Hope springs eternal as the first daffodils emerge from the winter season and begin to bloom, Photo submitted by Laura Boggess Shafer of Clendenin, WV

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.

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!

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

Aubrie Abbott

Tim Cunningham

Scott Abbott

Alycen Swor

J. Craig Allison

Austin Staats

ACUPUNCTURE & HOLISTIC HEALTH, INC.

304.377.7892

The Retreat at Northgate

One Creative PL., Charleston, WV

ADVANTAGE VALLEY

304.352.1165

1045 Bridge Rd., Charleston

advantagevalley.com

AFFILIATED FINANCIAL GROUP

304.935.2230

4508 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston

ANR CONSTRUCTION

304.741.0377 | 304.546.6510

Randy Young, Jr. & Andrew Young

ARMSTRONG LAW, PLLC

304.300.9663

dan@wvlegalhelp.com

624 Elk St., Gassaway

BECKY’S PET PARLOR

304.951.9162

Rebecca Briles & Kaitlyn Truman

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)

CANTRELL’S FLORIST

304.548.7700

7484 Elk River Rd, Clendenin

CENTRAL WV AGING SERVICES

304.965.9081

Local Charleston Office

CLENDENIN PHARMACY

304.548.5451

Bill Ore and Linsay Matuszkiewicz

CREDE TRACTOR

304.965.1666

contact William Crede

DEAN JEFFRIES, STATE FARM

304.965.7024

85 Credes Landing, Elkview

DOOR DECOR & MOORE

304.965.2447

4952 Elk River Rd.,Elkview

DR. JOHN RICHARDS

304.935.2513

4710 Chimney Dr., Ste. H, Charleston

E. JUNE BOUTIQUE

Ejunescustomer@gmail.com

100 Verna Drive, Elkview

EDENS BODY WORKS, INC.

304.965.5900

102 Neville Rd, Elkview

ELK RIVER HOTEL & CAFE

304.402.2121

616 Main Street, Sutton

ELITE ROOFING

304.989.4792

2614 7th Ave., Charleston www.eliteroofingwv.com

ELK FAMILY DENTISTRY

304.965.6661

contact Joey Adkins, DDS

ELK HILLS MEMORIAL PARK

304.965.5721

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 BAKING COMPANY

304.548.7474

12 Main St., Clendenin

ELK RIVER BOUTIQUE

304.549.8778

3 Main Street, Clendenin

ELK RIVER CHIROPRACTIC

304.965.2458 | Dr. Scott Collias

4710 Chimney Dr., Ste. D

ELK VALLEY ELECTRIC

304.419.5337

www.elkvalleyelectric.com

ELK VALLEY PET CREMATORIUM

304.965.0148

Inside Elk Hills Memorial Park

4705 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston

ELK VALLEY PHYSICAL THERAPY

304.965.7979

contact Andi Geary, MPT

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

NEW LOCATION:

4402 Crede Drive at Big Chimney

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

HAFER FUNERAL HOME & MYER’S CHAPEL

304.965.3331 | 304.965.3341

haferfuneralhome.net

HARDING'S FAMILY RESTAURANT

304.344.5044

2772 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston

GIVE OUR SPONSORS THE OPPORTUNITY TO HAVE YOUR BUSINESS, they care a great deal about you and the Elk River community!

HOLSTEIN INSURANCE

304.965.9941 holsteininsuranceagencyinc.com

INDOOR TENNIS CENTER

304.925.4848

3510 Venable Ave., Charleston, WV

Seasonal & Walk On Court Time

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 VEHICLE LICENSING

304.548.4726 knightinsurance@frontier.com

KNIGHTHORST

877.474.7332 www.knighthorst.com

LAUGHTER N LACE

Rebekah Kersey, Seamstress

304.382.1791. Call or text laughternlace@frontier.com

LIBERTY TAX

15 Main St., Clendenin

304.548.5820

LITTLE SECRET DESIGN CO.

304.427.6797

www.littlesecretdesign.co

MATICS FUNERAL HOME

304.548.6611 maticsfuneralhome.com

MAVERICK GYMNASTICS CLUB

304.925-3004 • maverickgym.com

3510 Venable Ave., Charleston

Maverick Gymnastics Club, Inc.

MEADOWBROOK ACRES

NURSING CENTER

877.474.7332

www.meadowbrookacres.net

MITCH’S 24 HR TOWING

304.965.6646

contact Mitch Young

MOSS TREE SERVICE LLC

304.965.8095

www.mosstreeservice.com

MOUNTAINEER AUCTION

304.548.4056 contact Roger Mullins

MT. PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH

304.965.7062 mpbcwv.org

NANCY KUHL

SEWING & ALTERATIONS

304.965.0747

Text 304.807.4861

PADDLERS BAR & GRILL

681.230.2061

12 Maywood Ave., W., Clendenin

PEGGY WHITE, REALTOR

Old Colony 304.395.0619

PENNY PINCHERS, LLC

304.548.4005

11 Main St, Clendenin

POCA VALLEY BANK

304.965.7730 | 1.844.782.2651 pocavalleybank.com

PUZZLED PISTOLS BOUTIQUE

4636 Penn. Ave, Ste 2, Charleston www.puzzledpistolsboutique.com

RODNEY LOFTIS & SON

304.342.8200 & on Facebook

95 Casdorph Rd., Charleston

ROGERS HARDWARE

304.965.1077

Contact Bill Rogers

SCOTT’S SERVICE & AUTO REPAIR

681.230.2151

311C Elk River Road, S., Clendenin

SLEEP INN

304.345.5111

2772 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston

SMITH'S CARPET ONE

304.965.7111

4774 Chimney Dr., Big Chimney

SMITH'S FURNITURE & APPLIANCE

304.965.7600

Elk Shopping Plaza, Elkview

SOLID ROCK CONTRACTING

304.444.4288

contact Phil Shaffer

SPENCER’S HARDWARE

304.548.6995

8290 Elk River Rd. N, Clendenin

TUDOR’S BISCUIT WORLD

304.965.7769

1083 Main Street, Elkview

WALKER CREEK FARMS & CABINS

304.286.5200

230 Nebo Walker Road, Nebo

WALLY'S SUPERIOR PARTS & SERVICE

304.935.2287

5100 Elk River Rd., N., Elkview

XSPEC POWER

304.746.1139

contact Emily Canterbury

THOUSANDS OF EYES

SEE OUR SPONSOR ADS EACH MONTH!

AT THE LIBRARY

CLENDENIN ELK VALLEY

LIBRARIES ARE MORE THAN JUST STORES OF BOOKS & KNOWLEDGE. THEY ARE THE CORNERSTONE OF NEIGHBORHOODS & COMMUNITIES.

MARCH LIBRARY EVENTS

Puzzle Exchange

Family Craft: Cat in the Hat’s Hat

Dr Seuss Day Activities

Jump into Storytime

Playgroup at the Library

STEM Afternoon: Build an Igloo

Children's Sewing Club

Spring Break Staycation

-I Spy Bottle (Mar 14)

-Rainbow on a Stick (Mar 15)

-Shaggy Shamrock (Mar 16)

Secret Storage Box

Jump into Storytime

Playgroup at the Library

Women’s History Month: History Alive with Colonel Ruby Bradley

@Clendenin Community Center, #4 1st Street

Family Fun: Stu ed Animal Sleepover

Children's Sewing Club

Jump into Storytime

Playgroup at the Library

Full STEM Ahead: Kitchen Science for Curious Kids

Co ee Time

Jump into Storytime Playgroup at the Library

Kids’ Paint Night: Lucky Charm Thursday Spring Break Activities: Lifesize Candyland

Elk Valley Book Group Teen Time Tuesday

Play

Family/All Ages

Family/All Ages

Family/All Ages

Children 0 - 5 years

Children 0 - 5 years

Family/All Ages

Children & Tweens

Family/All Ages

Children & Tweens

Children 0 - 5 years

Children 0 - 5 years

Family/All Ages

Family/All Ages

Children & Tweens

Children 0–5 years

Children 0–5 years

Family/All Ages

Adults

Children 0–5 years

Children 0–5 years

Family/All Ages

Family/All Ages

Adults

Teens

Children 0–5 years

Adults

March 29 – Sta Development Day – all branches of the library will be closed

THE ELK’S COOKBOOK

BANANA PUDDING BUNDT CAKE

If you love Banana Wafer Pudding, you will definitely want to try Gabi Strickland Walker’s Banana Pudding Bundt cake. She says, “This cake is another great use for overripe bananas. The cake is moist and delicious.” It could easily be served for breakfast or brunch.

BANANA PUDDING BUNDT CAKE

INGREDIENTS

Cake

• 1 C Bananas - mashed (overripe - about 2 medium bananas)

• 1 Box Cake Mix yellow

• 3.4 oz Jello banana cream instant pudding (just the powder)

• 4 Eggs - lightly beaten

• 1 C Water

• 3 T Sour Cream

• 1/4 C Canola Oil

Frosting

• 4 oz Cream Cheese - Softened

• 1 ½ C Powdered Sugar

• 1/2 t Vanilla

• Dash of Heavy Cream - to consistency

DIRECTIONS

Cake

PREP Preheat the oven to 350 degrees (with the rack on the lower-middle position so the cake isn't too high in the oven.) Grease and flour a bundt pan and set aside.

STEP 1 In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix and instant pudding powder. Whisk to combine. Add eggs, water, sour cream and oil. Whisk just until incorporated.

STEP 2 Using rubber spatula, fold in bananas just until combined; don’t over-mix.

STEP 3 Pour into the prepared bundt pan, lightly shaking to even out the batter. Bake 35-45 minutes, watching for the top to be lightly golden and a toothpick to only have a few crumbs and not have any batter attached.

STEP 4 Cool completely in the pan on a rack. Once cool, use a knife to separate the cake from the pan. Invert and remove cake to a platter.

Frosting

STEP 1 Using a hand mixer and a big bowl, whip the cream cheese until soft.

STEP 2 Add remaining ingredients and mix until smooth. Add heavy cream as needed for correct consistency. Frost cake once it’s completely cooled.

From the Kitchen of Gabi Strickland Walker

ELK RIVER AUTOMOTIVE SUPPLY

304.965.5312

304.965.8173

• New expanded bays with heavy duty lifts

• Exhaust

• Front End Work

• Brakes

• Computer Diagnostic Service

• AC Service

• Major & Minor Engine Repair

• 2 & 4 Wheel Alignments

• Tire Service (we have over 5 different suppliers for any brand, any type of �

• Transmission Service

• State Inspections

• Modified inspections

Mike Haynes, Manager | Cathy Wild, Assistant

We are excited to introduce ERL’s newest segment, The Elk’s Garden. Here we will feature vegetable gardening tips as well as tried and true canning recipes from our Elk River gardeners! This month we will start where it all begins

with the seeds

SO MANY CHOICES

One of the first things you will want to start thinking about is what do you want to grow in your garden. Local gardener Laura Boggess Shafer said, “It’s time to decide and order your seeds. There are seed catalogs everywhere now. During COVID it was hard to even find seeds.” You can google vegetable seed catalogs online and find an array of free 2023 seed companies such as Roher, Berlin, Rare Seeds by Baker Creek, Burpee, Gurney’s, Harris, Seed Savers Exchange and more. It’s easy to request a free catalog to be mailed to you. Also, don’t forget your local co-op, local nurseries, and hardware stores which carry a wide selection of flower, vegetable and herb garden seeds.

NOTE: If you order your seeds now, you can store them in the crisper drawer of your refrigerator until you are ready to start your seedlings or plant them in the ground.

STARTING YOUR SEEDLINGS

Some of your vegetables may need to be started indoors now and transplanted to your garden later. These include tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and several others. The seed package or catalog information will say something like “start seeds indoors 7-8 weeks before the last spring frost.” It will also tell you when you should move your seedlings outdoors, which is usually in the late spring once the sun has had a chance to warm the soil. Other vegetables prefer to be planted directly in soil of at least 65 degrees F. These include cucumbers, beans, squash, corn, carrots, and herbs.

According to the 2023 Frost Dates Calculator (almanac.com) the last spring frost date is April 23 for the Charleston Yeager AP, WV location (30% probability which means there is still a chance of frost occurring after that date). Towns to our north may find this date to be a week later. For most of West Virginia the last frost dates are May 1 to May 15. The first 2023 fall frost is expected around October 21.Always check your local forecast and your local extension office.

CHOOSE YOUR CONTAINERS

You can use a variety of containers for starting seeds as long as you have proper drainage and enough depth for root development. Most seeds need a depth of twice their diameter and very small seeds can just be gently pressed into the soil.

You can purchase plastic trays with clear, fitted dome covers. Many people opt to create their own planting flats. You can use recycled materials such as plastic food containers or recycled newspapers and paper cups. The clear plastic containers act like mini-greenhouses to help germinate your seeds. Egg cartons can also be used if you can afford eggs.

You can cover the container with plastic wrap or place it in a plastic bag to encourage humidity and seed germination. Again, read the back of your seed package. They will list the best temperature for seed germination, which is usually 65-75 degrees

F. Place your flats in a warm location in your home for the germination process. You can then move them to a bright location as they continue to grow.

Laura Shafer also shared a GrowVeg tip where seeds were started in small cups/containers with potting media and then were placed in a plastic tote. “When it is a nice day, remove the lids off of the totes and let them enjoy the warm air and when it is colder, put the lids back on and stack them in a corner. It’s a great way to introduce tomatoes and squash plants to the weather before transplanting them outdoors.” Laura and her grandson, Wade, are going to try some seeds in totes like this. We will check in with them next month and see how the seedlings are growing!

LOTS OF RESOURCES

While it is still cold outdoors, take some time to google vegetable gardening or browse your local library. Pinterest is also a great resource and we like WV Extension programs, both local county offices and online, for an abundance of advice and management techniques. The more you know, the better equipped you can be to be ready for spring gardening.

Share your gardening tips and canning recipes! Your expertise is invaluable to young gardeners! Email cyndi@ elkriverliving.com and please attach any photos as well. You can also text the info to Cyndi at 304.546.9243. We would love to have early photos of tilling the gardens, young seedlings, and anything else you want to share. SHARE WITH US!

PHOTO BY GARDENWEB

THE HOLBERTS ARE AT IT AGAIN

THIS TIME THEY ARE SMOKIN’ ON THE RIVER!

Entrepreneurs Matt and Nikki Holbert are no strangers in the Elk River community. Not only do they own Bricks and Barrels, Axes & Ales, and The Lucky Dill Deli in Charleston, they opened Take Me Home Airbnbs, The Clendenin Brewing Company, and Clendenin Catering in Clendenin.

WAIT, there’s more! They are now the new owners of Rollin’ Smoke BBQ located at 4008 Crede Drive, Charleston, on Route 119 between the Mink Shoals and Big Chimney 1-79 Exits!

The Holberts have a great new menu, and for gettogethers, you can’t beat their party-pack menus and delicious add-ons including wings, buffalo chicken dip, nachos and chips, fruit tray, vegetable tray, charcuterie tray and dessert tray.

Speaking of get-togethers, Super Bowl weekend Rollin’ Smoke BBQ served over 7,500 wings in their famous hot BBQ, Garlic Parmesan, BBQ, and Hot as Hades flavors as part of their Super Bowl Weekend package. Just saying, that’s a lot of chicken on the Elk!

Their regular menu has sandwiches and platters featuring hickory-smoked brisket, chicken, locally-sourced smoked sausage, pork, ribs, and bologna. Also, we love to stop for smoked brisket tacos with cabbage slaw and salsa verde, their cheesy hashbrown casserole or their hickorysmoked salmon when it is available! Our very favorite dessert is Nikki’s homemade bread pudding with caramel sauce. It is heaven on a fork. Their wings and mac & cheese bowls are also local favorites. Delicious sides include your choice of smoked baked beans, red skin potato salad, smoked mac & cheese, southern coleslaw, smoked potato wedges, and smoked collard greens.

There are even more exciting changes coming this summer. Rollin’ Smoke BBQ will be serving your favorite beverages from The Clendenin Brewing Company, both on-tap and in growlers. Matt said, “We are also planning to remodel the dock and picnic areas next to the river, including adding a playground for the kids. Patrons will be able to kayak on the Elk and stop in for food, refreshments, and a good time with friends. We want Rollin’ Smoke BBQ to have the same family welcoming atmosphere as we have at The Clendenin Brewing Company.”

One of the perks of owning several businesses is you never know when one of Nikki’s famous entrees makes a guest appearance at one of their other establishments. Rollin’ Smoke BBQ pulledpork or pulled-chicken sandwiches along with

their buffalo chicken dip and mac and cheese bowl are regulars at The Clendenin Brewing Company and recently their mac & cheese bowl was also at Axes and Ales in Charleston. Pair it with one of The Clendenin Brewing Company beverages or other local drafts for an awesome combo.

Dine in or pick up, the choice is yours. As soon as the weather warms a bit, you will definitely want to enjoy a booth or picnic table overlooking the beautiful Elk River. The view and the food can’t be beat. You can call ahead for pick up at 304.965.0808 or use their NEW online ordering feature located on their Facebook/Rollin Smoke BBQ. They are open Monday through Saturday from 11 AM to 7 PM so whether you are looking for lunch, brunch, dinner or a snack, Rollin’ Smoke BBQ needs to be one of your destinations of choice!

The Elk River economy continues to expand as more pieces are added. Although our businesses are but a fraction of the growth, we are excited and proud to be a part of the rejuvenation.

–Matt & Nikki Holbert

"

TAKE A SNEAK PEEK

AT THE NEW HHHS

Submitted by Guest Author Tim Cunningham & photos by Tim’s Takes Photography

Exterior view & football field

Baseball field Gymnasium

This month ERL features a pictorial tour of the new home of the HHHS Huskies. Photographer

Tim Cunningham of Tim’s Take Photography captured these photos in mid-February so that ERL could share the exciting progress with our Elk River audience.

In mid-January 2023, the staff of Herbert Hoover was afforded the opportunity to do a walk-thru at the new school to get a first-hand look at the progress to date. It was exciting to see hallways and classrooms in a

couple of the wings of the building while other areas were at different completion phases of construction. For example, the gymnasium(s) looked more like a storage warehouse than a gym.

Now, transition to four weeks later, the middle of February, and things look much different. All of the classrooms and hallways are nearing completion. The main gym has been painted, lighting installed, and flooring materials now occupy the room. According to the architect, Ted Shriver, the building

Classroom interior Theater

Hallway with lockers

has been moved from temporary electrical power to permanent power and the HVAC system is due to be up and running in February as well. As for the exterior of the building and the sports fields, work moves along at a rapid pace as weather permits. What makes Herbert Hoover different from other new schools is the level of completion that is required. In the construction field, “substantial completion” is defined as: a project is substantially complete when it can be used for its intended purpose. A construction project need not be absolutely complete; however, any remaining work or defects must be relatively minor and unimportant...

Since the new Herbert Hoover High School is a FEMA replacement project, not only is there a new building,

there are all new furnishings as well. Due to the size of the project, Shriver has divided the job into two parts: the academic and the athletic side.

The substantial completion date for the athletic side is April 28th and the academic side is June 2nd. Shriver and Terry Stilwell, the construction manager of Swope Construction, are confident these are still achievable target dates. The school cannot be turned over for usage until both sides are fully completed and all parties involved sign off on the project.

Remember, “good things come to those that wait”... but it just can’t come soon enough for our students and the Elk River community. As excitement mounts and these dates draw closer, look for more updates here in the Elk River Living magazine.

Football field

Hallway

Fieldhouse

Stairwell

Locker room

elrobinson engineering .com

5088 Washington St. W., Charleston, WV • 304.776.7473

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

WE WALK ON TUESDAYS!

The Elk River Walking Club wore red on Valentine’s Day and for Heart Month. It was a gorgeous day for a walk on the trail at Clendenin. Come and join The Elk River Walking Club every Tuesday at 4PM at the Clendenin North Trailhead through March 7.

Daylight Savings Time begins on March 11, so the meeting time for the Club will change to 6 PM (effective the second Tuesday in March). You can come anytime, walk as far as you want, and as fast

New DNR Boat Launches are ready for you to hit the Elk River Water Trails!

as you want. From beginner to advanced, everyone is welcome. Also, plan to grab something to eat after your walk at one of the delicious eateries in Clendenin! We hope to see you on the trail on Tuesdays!

ELK RIVER WATER TRAIL LAUNCHES

Have you noticed the Division of Natural Resources’ (DNR) new boat launches at Blue Creek and at Big Chimney? They are ready for you, your family, and friends to use to enjoy the beautiful Elk River Water Trails. DNR has public access launch sites on Elk River at (traveling north): Mink Shoals (Coonskin Park), Big Chimney, Blue Creek, Clendenin South, Clendenin North, Queen Shoals, King Shoals, Jack’s Bend, Dorfee, Hartland Bridge, Clay County Courthouse, WVDOH Clay Access, Mary L. Chilton Roadside Park, Ivydale, Duck, Tate Creek, Strange Creek, Frametown, Sutton Lake Bee Run, and Sutton Lake.

Scan the QR code below for information on each site via the WV DNR Interactive Fishing Map. In addition, there are five launch sites along the Elkhurst section of Elk River in the Wallback Wildlife Management area in Clay County that are not improved and have minimal parking, but they are available for public access.

Elk River Trail Foundation is currently mapping other public access sites on the Elk River that are not owned or operated by the DNR, including those on Elkhurst, the old church property at Queen Shoals, Dundon, and Little Italy, and is exploring opportunities for other public access. “Ideally, the Foundation would like to have public access sites with public parking available every five to seven miles” according to Barry Curry, chair of the Foundation’s Water Trail Committee.

The map will be placed on the Foundation’s website. Curry also related that the Water Trail Committee has purchased mileage signs to place along the river’s edge from Sutton to Charleston so that boaters can plan trips and to provide a guidepost for emergency responders.

Anyone willing to help with these projects should contact elkrivertrail@gmail.com

Our floaters, boaters and kayakers should be aware of the DNR’s requirements and prohibitions as you begin using these sites because fines can be levied for violations. According to the DNR website:

• Public boating and fishing access facilities shall be used solely for the purpose of launching and retrieving watercraft fishing from the shore. No other use of access sites is allowed.

• After launching, vehicles shall be parked in available parking spaces.

• Any law enforcement officer acting under proper authority may prohibit an individual from launching a watercraft from any public boating and fishing access sites.

• The following are PROHIBITED at fishing and boating access sites:

• Consumption of alcoholic beverages or possession of an open container of alcoholic beverage.

• Swimming or bathing.

• Camping.

• Open fires.

• Trash disposal except where trash receptacles are provided.

• Discharge of firearms, fireworks and explosives.

• Leaving unattended watercraft.

• Commercial use except as authorized by the Director.

• Parking of any vehicle or the mooring of any watercraft in such a manner as to obstruct any avenue of ingress or egress, except for the purpose of launching.

THE ELK’S JOURNAL

NEW FROM ELK RIVER NATIVE & AUTHOR, STEVE KITTNER

Just released! You can get an introduction to some of the main characters in the “What Lies” Adventure Mystery Series by one of Elk River’s favorite, published authors, Steve Kittner. It's the new "What Lies Along The Banks of The River," and it is a bargain at .99 cents for an eBook or $5.99 for a paperback (Amazon.com).

Travel with Kittner behind the scenes to learn more about the adventurous life along the Elk River. His new novella consists of four short stories where characters Josh and Eddie roam the riverbanks and trails behind their homes in West Virginia. The setting, adventures, and dialogue are a prequel to Kittner’s first book and bestseller, River Rocks. Also, Kittner is currently writing his fifth fulllength novel, "What Lies Down Copperhead Road," which will be another book packed with adventure in an Appalachian setting. ERL will have more on this exciting book when it is released. If you love adventure mystery, treasure hunts, and action, I recommend Kittner’s new novella and ALL of the books in the “What Lies” series.

– Amazon

Reader

Excerpt from "What Lies Along The Banks of The River"

He looked the body over and shook his head. He spoke to the deceased. “Three bullet holes to the chest, “ He shrugged. “I’m not sure why the State of Florida needs me to tell them the cause of death, but I will certainly do it, for a very nice salary.” He smiled at the deceased.

Once reentering the morgue, the attendants did their job of returning the body to drawer 62. Not getting a good hold on it, the bag fell and when it did there was a ping from the contact it made with the epoxy cement floor. …

The M.E. looked at the clear bag lying on the floor and noticed the source of the ping. Lying halfway out of one of the slender side pockets was something shiny…and gold! …

“Well, this should help the next of kin with their grief somewhat, I would say.” He flipped the coin in the air, caught it, and took it directly to his office, to his personal safe. He was an honest man and he would see that the detectives were made aware of it and the victim’s family received the coin.

MITCH DEBOARD

Mitch DeBoard of Clay, WV shared photos of Devil’s Sawmill Waterfall, located on the rails-to-trails section of the Elk River Trail on Buffalo Creek in Clay County. Rocky Nutter, a Braxton County resident, said he believes the waterfall is 90’ in height. The last shot of the creek was taken off of Sand Fork Bridge. This bridge is sometimes confused with the Robinson Fork Bridge, which, by the way, was blown up at the same time, on October 23, 1952, during the Widen Mine War.

Scan to read the article: The Life Cycle of a Coal Town: Widen, West Virginia, 1911-1963

THE ELK’S STUDENTS

HHHS MATH FIELD DAY

HHHS FOOTBALL

HHHS BASKETBALL

Photo by Tim’s Takes Photography

EVCS BASKETBALL

HHHS

By Jenna Stout

Congratulations! Not only did Eli Robertson score his 1,000th point at the HHHS/Midland Trail game, he also set a new all-time leading, scoring record at HHHS at Wayne High School on February 10, 2023!!!!!! The old record of 1186 was set by Jim Hayes in 1969.

Congrats to EVCS Senior Kaitlyn Swor who scored her 1,000 point with a three-point shot at the Morgantown Christian game in the first round of the WVCAT State Tournament!

Congrats to HHHS freshman Jeremiah Eagle who placed second at Math Field Day and is headed to the Regional Math Field Day Competition!

SWIM TEAM

Congrats to Ashton Walker who placed third in 200 IM and 5th in the 100 fly at her first WVSSAC State Swim Championship!

THE ELK REFLECTS

WHAT IS A VICTORY GARDEN?

You may have heard of victory gardens from your parents or grandparents. They have also been referred to as war gardens or liberty gardens.These vegetable gardens were grown during the World War eras with the purpose of producing enough food for our troops and citizens so that the nation did not face the threat of food shortages.

People raised gardens, big and small, anywhere they could--from their front and back yards to parks and playgrounds. According to the US Department of Agriculture, there were more than 20 million victory gardens planted, resulting in 9-10 million tons of vegetables† .

Today, victory gardens are making a comeback but with a different purpose in mind. These gardens are actually being planted by individuals who want to grow healthier, fresh vegetables to help feed their families and to stretch their food budget. The coronavirus pandemic triggered many of the recent shortages at our grocery stores and many people are now planting gardens to ensure their families have adequate food. Laura Shafer of Clendenin said, “We have a full cellar of canned vegetables so our family is less dependent on what is on the grocery shelves, not to mention it is a healthier option for feeding our family.”

In view of the need for gardening expertise, ERL is excited to introduce our new segment, The Elk’s Garden on page 16. Each issue will include tips and techniques from our local Elk River gardeners, beginning with this issue where they encourage you to start thinking about what you and your family enjoy eating. Traditional victory gardens focused on food that were high in nutrition such as tomatoes, watermelon, squash, turnips, leafy greens and beans, but you can grow whatever your family likes to eat!

Save the environment, save money, be proud, create memories, strengthen family bonds, eat healthier, and become an Elk River gardener this summer!

Popular victory gardens in the World War eras.

IMAGE SOURCE: FELIX MANN/GETTY IMAGES

ALL ABOARD!

The 17th Annual Model Train and Craft Show will be at The Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center the weekend of March 11 and 12, 2023.

Mike Reynolds of the Kanawha Valley Railroad Association (KVRA) said, “We expect more than 50 train and craft vendors at this year’s annual event. We have 200 tables which are nearly full and we are predicting a crowd of approximately 1500.”

There will be vendors, clinics and HO layouts! Admission is $5 for adults and children under 12 are free. Hours are Saturday, the 11th, from 10 AM to 6 PM and on Sunday, the 12th, from 10 AM to 4 PM. Bring the family and enjoy a day exploring several model train layouts with different gauges (different sizes of trains) represented. Vendors will be selling both train and craft items.

At the show KVRA will feature their 15 x 25 West Virginia module which includes representative

aspects of a small town in West Virginia with coal mining facilities, power plant, farms, company houses, brick plant, chemical facility, rail yard and more.

This year the KVRA is celebrating their 44th year. The are located at 1750 Coonskin Park Drive in Charleston (at the end of the Park)). They are open every Sunday from 1 PM to 4 PM and on special events. At their Coonskin Park location, there are modeled renditions of Charleston, Thurmond, Hawk’s Nest and Elkview. It is a historic museum for the whole family to enjoy.

JOE HORTER 304.539.6721 RICHARD BOYD 615.319.9654

THE HEALTHY ELK

March is National Athletic Training Month

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

March is National Athletic Training Month and with life-saving strategies used by Athletic Trainers (ATs) and other parts of the medical team in the NFL for Buffalo Bill’s defensive back Damar Hamlin, the profession has recently been in the spotlight. However, many people may not be aware of what an athletic trainer is or what they are responsible for in their work day.

The National Athletic Trainers’ Association defines athletic trainers as “highly qualified, multi-skilled health care professionals who render service or treatment, under the direction of or in collaboration with a physician, in accordance with their education, training and the state’s statutes, rules and regulations.

As a part of the health care team, services provided by athletic trainers include primary care, injury and illness prevention, wellness promotion and education, emergency care, examination and clinical diagnosis, therapeutic intervention and rehabilitation of injuries and medical conditions.” ATs have a large skill set but tend to specialize in orthopedics, emergency situations, and concussion diagnosis and management.

To become an athletic trainer one must graduate from an accredited program and pass a national board of certification exam. More than 70% of ATs have a master’s degree and as of 2022 all new program students are required to receive a master’s degree to sit for the board exam. In West Virginia and most other states, ATs have to be licensed to practice their profession. As a national standard, ATs must also be CPR/AED certified and complete 50 hours of continuing education every two years. Most athletic trainers are found on the sidelines of sporting events but can also be found in the military, performing arts, and industrial settings.

The risk of injury is inherent in sports but the benefits typically outweigh the risks. It is important for young athletes, parents, and community members to understand the risks of sport and take steps to reduce the risk. Athletic trainers play a critical role in providing a safer approach to sports.

Athletic trainers work with their community to make sports as safe as possible and allow youth to reap the many benefits that come with sports. Fortunately, our area athletes have access to an AT either during practice, games, or the free injury screen provided by Elk Valley Physical Therapy. The free screen is provided to any area athlete, K-12, who has not been evaluated.

This can help prevent a long wait at the ER for sprains and strains and has often gotten athletes back in the game sooner and safely. EVPT can perform the screen as soon as possible, usually the same day as the injury occurs, and begin treatment for the injury just as quickly. If you have an athlete who is injured, give Elk Valley Physical Therapy a call!