Elk River Living | Volume 05 | Issue 04

ELK RIVER LIVING ELK RIVER LIVING

HELLO & Welcome Back!

Today there was a break in the weather with some sunshine and I took the opportunity to go to Indian Lake in Elkview which is featured this month in our magazine. It was my first visit there but it certainly won’t be my last. As I walked around the lake and visited with several fishermen, I was enchanted by the easy conversation and the peace that came over me. As the wind blew across the water, there were gentle ripples that cascaded across the lake. All thoughts of deadlines and to-do lists faded away as I stood and just took in the beauty of it all.

I now understand how people can spend the whole day fishing. Indian Lake owners Chris and Jennifer Veltri have added a new bait shop and concession area as well. On my next visit, I will take a rod (I certainly can’t supervise multiple rods like Cole Mullins who was there fishing) and it will be a great day of relaxation with or without a catch…well, as long as Ken is there to bait my hook and take off any fish I may catch! I’m thinking I have found a new hobby for this summer!

All of us need to find something that gives us peace and relaxation. The Elk River Walking Club meets every Tuesday to walk along the Elk River Trail in Clendenin. The Braxxie Bicycle Shop is sponsoring a bike ride along the trail in Braxton County, starting with coffee before their ride at the Gassaway Train Depot and ending with lunch afterward. Take the time to even just walk around your yard or street and wave at your neighbors. Getting outdoors, breathing the air, getting some exercise, visiting with friends, clearing our minds…it’s something most of us fall short of but we need to make it a priority in our lives. My head felt clearer and my heart felt lighter. It’s amazing what unplugging from stress for even 30 minutes can do to improve your outlook on life.

Whether you are walking, biking, kayaking, gardening, pulling weeds, cleaning up the yard or playing with the kids, take time to enjoy this spring weather. If you see me out and about, stop and visit. I believe friendship is the best medicine of all.

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

ERL’s cover photo this month features Indian Lake at 1111 Indian Creek Road in Elkview. Thank you to our talented photographer, Scott Abbott of Scott Abbott Photo, for capturing this gorgeous shot for us.

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

ABSOLUTE ASPHALT

#WV-061163

304.548.7707

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

BAD AXE BISTRO

304.402.2111

226 Main St., Sutton

BECKY’S PET PARLOR

304.951.9162

Rebecca Briles & Kaitlyn Truman

BILL’S USED CARS

304.548.4727

Rt 119 Elk River Road

BLANCH’S FAMILY DINER

681.230.2088

9 2nd Ave.,Clendenin

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

EDENS BODY WORKS, INC.

304.965.5900

102 Neville Rd, Elkview

ELK RIVER HOTEL & CAFE

304.402.2121

616 Main Street, Sutton

ELKVIEW INSURANCE

304.965.7033

2 Reynolds Ave., Ste. A, Elkview

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

4402 Crede Drive at Big Chimney

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

GOOD FAMILY PHARMACY

304.935.4812

249 Pinch Rd., Elkview

GOOD LIFE APOTHECARY

304.345.8600

3212 Penn. Ave., Charleston (Crede)

GIVE

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

HOLSTEIN INSURANCE

304.965.9941

holsteininsuranceagencyinc.com

INDIAN LAKE

304.965.5661

1111 Indian Lake Drive, Elkview

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

KEMP’S LAWN ENFORCEMENT

304.421.5486

One-time services & weekly contracts

KN CONTRACTING

304.965.9088

5146 Elk River Rd., Elkview

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

PATRIOT PRESSURE WASHING

304.840.4833 patriothousewash.com

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

TAYLOR MADE FARMS, LLC

304.941.8520

1484 Shelton Rd., Bomont

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

AT THE LIBRARY

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

APRIL LIBRARY EVENTS

Family Craft: Lollipop Bunnies

Spring Birds in a Nest

CLENDENIN ELK VALLEY

Jump into Storytime

Playgroup at the Library

Kids Sewing Club

Paint Night!

STEM Afternoon: Fun with Peeps

Family Fun: Paper Making

Jump into Storytime

Playgroup at the Library

Kids Sewing Club

Family/All Ages

Adults & Seniors

Children 0 - 5 years

Children 0 - 5 years

Children & Tweens

Tweens, Teens, Adults & Seniors

Family/All Ages

Family/All Ages

Children 0 - 5 years

Children 0 - 5 years

Children & Tweens

Wooden Sign Craft workshop

Jump into Storytime

Spring Egg Hunt

5 Wishes Workshop

Mythical Creatures Unite!

PBS Storytime Workshop

Kids Paint: Celebrate Spring!

Elk Valley Book Group Teen Time

Full STEM Ahead: Pop-up Cupcake Shop

National Library Week

Co ee Time

Jump into Storytime

Playgroup at the Library

A Very Happy Unbirthday Party

Adults

Children 0-5

Children 0-5

Adults

Families

Children 0-5

Families

Adults

Teens & Tweens

Families/All Ages

Families/All Ages

Adults

Children 0-5

Children 0-5

Families/All Ages

THE ELK’S COOKBOOK

EASTER EGG BROWNIES

Gabi Strickland Walker of Walker Mtn. Eats has the perfect recipe for April. She said, “You know those chocolate-dipped peanut butter Easter eggs…you know which ones I’m talking about, right? Now imagine that glorious taste…on top of a deliciously gooeychocolatey brownie. The topping on these brownies tastes just like one of those handmade Easter eggs. Pour a big glass of milk and give these a try soon!”

EASTER EGG BROWNIES

From the Kitchen of Gabi Strickland Walker

INGREDIENTS

Brownie Base

• Brownie Mix* & ingredients

Filling

• 1/2 cup butter- softened

• 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• 2 t milk

Topping

• 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

• 1/4 cup butter

*Gabi’s Note: I used 2 packages of Hershey’s Triple Chocolate Fudge brownie mix

DIRECTIONS

Brownie Base

Store/Keep refrigerated

STEP 1 Make a 9x13 brownie mix per package directions (eggs, oil, etc.), bake and allow to COOL completely

Filling

STEP 1 In a medium bowl, beat filling ingredients with an electric mixer until smooth.

STEP 2 Spread evenly over the COOLED brownie base.

Topping

STEP 1 In a small microwaveable bowl, combine topping ingredients and microwave uncovered on HIGH at 30 second intervals, stirring in between until completely melted and smooth.

STEP 2 Let cool for about 10 minutes. Spread evenly over the filling layer.

STEP 3 Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes until completely set. Cut into squares and serve.

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

SHOP LOCAL ON CLENDENIN MAIN STREET

This month ERL is introducing Elk River Nutrition & The Elk River Loft Event Venue in Clendenin!

You will know which business is Elk River Nutrition by the line waiting outside the door. Jonathan Sheets offers delicious meal replacement shakes and energy drinks. Just ask the Pinch Elementary School teachers--they have him on speed dial!

Also, it’s time to start looking for a location for all of your graduation celebrations, wedding showers, birthday parties, receptions, and family gatherings. The Elk River Loft Event Venue offers elegant decorations in a lovely setting, complete with a 120” screen and projector. Lisa Fox said, “There is seating for 54 people and we have large tables for food and gifts. We also offer decorating and catering packages as well. Let us make your event a memorable one!”

ELK RIVER NUTRITION FOR A MORE HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

Jonathan Sheets was originally from just outside Charleston at Eden’s Fork, so when he decided to open a new store, he knew the Elk River area would be a perfect location. “I know a lot of people in this area and I wanted to provide them with a healthier option for meals and energy,” he said. When Jonathan lived in Alabama, he became involved with the business. “I was a customer at a local nutrition club for about a year and I fell in love with the products and decided I wanted to open my own store,” he said. Last year his dream became a reality when he opened his first store, Mayhem Nutrition, in Cross Lanes across from the Cookout restaurant.

Elk River Nutrition held its grand opening at 12 B Main Street in Clendenin on Saturday, September 17. The

Photos provided by Jonathan Sheets & Lisa Fox

newest Elk River business sells meal replacement protein shakes which are low in calories, carbs, and sugar, and high in protein. Jonathan said, “We also sell protein iced coffee and something called loaded teas which are for energy. They have 0 sugar and only 24 calories.” The different flavors of all the drinks and daily featured drinks are listed on their Facebook/Elk River Nutrition.

They are open Monday through Friday from 7 AM to 4 PM and on Saturdays from 9 AM to 2 PM. You can stop in one of their stores to enjoy a shake or energy drink or Jonathan can also order the products for you to make at home. You can also message them from their Facebook/Elk River Nutrition to place an order! Kristen Halstead from Puzzled Pistols

Boutique shared a photo of the Ruby loaded tea and said it was incredible. Tom and Matt from The Clendenin Brewing Company were there to welcome them and try their new peanut butter banana and pecan pie replacement shakes. Leslie Young had the delicious mint chocolate chip which was packed with 24 grams of protein and said it was delicious. Satisfy your sweet tooth in a healthy way!

You will want to stop in soon and sample their drinks. They will have a new featured drink each day. Also, there are drinks for the kids!. Add a gift certificate from Elk River Nutrition and introduce your friends to these awesome drinks! It’s a great addition to our Elk River businesses!

THE ELK RIVER LOFT EVENT VENUE IS THE PERFECT GATHERING PLACE

The top floor of The Elk River Boutique has been transformed into a lovely event venue, the Elk River Loft. If you are looking for the perfect gathering place, this is it, whether you are looking for a location for holiday dinners, parties, showers, office events, receptions or more.

The Elk River Loft offers an array of elegant decorations which are perfect for wedding receptions, showers, or other events. The Loft has the original wooden floors, and the setting is a combination of rustic and intimate. Lisa Fox, owner, said, “We have white and gold decorations accented with greenery which clients are free to use and they can even accent with their own colors or bring their own decorations.” There are gold satin table runners, white tablecloths, black covered chairs with gold chair sashes, ceiling drapes with intimate twinkle lighting, and over 300 feet of sheer curtains. Lisa added, “After your event, if you would like to donate your decorations to the free closet for others to use, you are also welcome to do so.”

One of The Loft’s newest features is a 120” screen with a stand and a projector. Lisa said, “The projector is perfect to display little clips during receptions, dinners or for hosting a movie night or parties. You are able to project images right from your smartphone. The projector and screen are free to use with booking.”

The Elk River Loft currently seats 54. There are large tables available for carry-in food and/or gifts. The Loft also offers catering and decorating packages as well. It is available seven days a week. For more information and the reservation link, visit The Elk River Loft on Facebook or contact Lisa at 304.549.8778 or elkriverlofteventvenue@gmail.com.

IT’S FISH O’CLOCK SOMEWHERE AND

WE KNOW WHERE!

Catfish season is here and Indian Lake is stocked and ready! Chris Veltri and his wife, Jennifer, have made big changes at the Lake this spring. Starting with their new logo and continuing with their new lake house renovations, they are ready to kick off catfish season in April.

“One of our newest changes was to change our logo. We wanted to celebrate our native Elk River-Indian Creek roots and this year has been designated as the year of the Indian,” said Chris. Tournament names have also been changed to reflect their Indian heritage. On Tuesdays they will have the Tepee Tue Tournament with a $10 entry, $5 Big Fish; Fridays will be the Powwow Fri Tournament with a $15 entry, $10 Big Fish, and Saturdays will have the Tomahawk Sat Tournament with a $25 entry, $15 Big Fish.

Chris and Jennifer have been the owners of Indian Lake for seven years. This year their fishermen/ women/children will be able to enjoy a new bait shop and a new kitchen/concessions. They are

also adding new lighting around the lake. “We have been working hard to refresh many of our features at the Lake,” said Chris. “We are also going to be offering a wider selection of live bait. We just want Indian Lake to be a destination of choice for people to come and relax and enjoy a day of fishing.”

The Lake will be stocking catfish weekly. The 2023 price schedule is: $30 (2 poles) 12 hour ticket, includes money boards; $22 (2 poles) 12 hour ticket; and no money boards. Kids: 5 and under FREE with a paying adult; 6-12 years: $10 (1 pole) with a paying adult, no money boards.

Money Boards include: Slots: 4 slots (25, 45, and 55 up) $4; Midnight tags $1; Big Fish of the Week (BFOW) $2; 777 $1; and 40 lb. Club (free entry).

Chris said, “New for 2023, if you hit the 777, you get to pick the new number.” Also, new for 2023 are midnight tags. Chris explained that when the bait shop is closed, you can still win money. “Simply catch a tag, take a picture of the tag number and a picture with you and the fish, release the fish healthy, and win! Text the photos to 304.552.7889 and you will be able to collect your winnings the following day. Simple and easy!”

There is a new 40 lb. Club for 2023. If anyone catches three fish over 40 lbs., they will win a “40

lb. club t-shirt” and either $100 in cash or 5 free passes to Indian Lake. There is no entry fee for the 40 lb. Club.

Another new change for 2023 is the Big Fish Bell. If anyone catches any fish over 25 lbs, they get to ring the bell for Elk River braggin’ rights. (We all know the fish gets bigger each time a fisherman tells the story.)

Indian Lake’s hours of operation are: Monday 8 AM-12 PM Midnight; Tuesday: 8 AM-12 PM (Tournament 7 pm-11 PM); Wednesday and Thursday: CLOSED; GATES LOCKED; NO FISHING Every Wednesday and Thursday is for cleaning and seining bait. Any help will be appreciated

John Barnhouse

on those days. Come and help seine the lake and take all the bait you want for free! Friday: 24 hours (Tournament 8 PM -12 Midnight); Saturday: 24 hours (Tournament 8 PM - 12 Midnight); Sunday: 8 AM- Midnight.

If the bait shop is locked any day other than Wednesday and Thursday, visitors can just use the drop box. You must have the correct change.

Chris said, “We stock weekly when our water is right. Our goal this summer is to provide you with the fish to get 20 or 30 fish tickets. We will stock giants but our objective is numbers; 15-30 lb. Blues will be the goal. Blues, Blues, and more Blues are coming this year.”

Visit Indian Lake’s Facebook page for catfish opening day in April. Until then come and fish rainbow and golden trout--the fish wagon runs and stocks the lake weekly! They are located at 1111 Indian Lake Drive in Elkview. For more information contact them at 304.965.5661 or fishmancjv@yahoo.com. Chris and Jennifer are excited to see your bobbers dropping in the water!

INDIAN LAKE WHOLESALE LIVE HAUL

If you are looking for local fish stocking for streams, ponds, paylakes, fishing clubs or feefishing operations, check out Indian Lake’s sister company, Indian Lake Wholesale Live Haul. Chris said, “It is go-time now for catfish so call or text me at 304.552.7889 to get your name on the list.”

Indian Lake Wholesale Live Haul will service their loyal customers only from 2023 going forward. He said, “We are cutting back on our list a bit to ensure our regular customers get what they need.”

Indian Lake Wholesale Live Haul’s 2023 prices are Bluecats $2.75-$3.50 lb.; Flatheads $3.00-$3.50 lb.; Wild Channels $2.50 lb.; and Farm-Raised Channels $3.50 lb. NOTE: Delivery fee may apply depending on weight. They also offer pick-up prices at their Indian Lake (Elkview) location.

Chris stated that Indian Lake Wholesale Live Haul guarantees live delivery only. “Upon delivery fish must be inspected, paid for, and signed-off on before unloading. Fish may be weighed off the truck if you choose, but you will need to have help to weigh them.”

Indian Lake and Indian Lake Wholesale Live Haul also offer gift certificates, a perfect gift for the fishermen in your life. Give Chris a call or text at 304.552.7889 to have your favorite fishing hole stocked and ready to go or to purchase a gift certificate for tournaments or a day of fishing at the lake.

Chris said, “Indian Lake is a proud supporter of Herbert Hoover Athletics; we take pride in our Elk River community.” He is a 1997 Herbert Hoover alumnus. He and Jennifer live in Elkview and have three daughters who attend Hoover now, Emma (Senior), Maci (Junior) and Ayva (Freshman).

HHHS SNEAK PEEK

APRIL UPDATE

Photos by Tim Cunningham of Tim’s Takes Photography

Photographer Tim Cunningham shared updated photographs of the new Herbert Hoover High School. Tim said, “Everything is still on schedule” and you can see the progress from his new March 13 photos. Thank you, Tim, for the virtual tour!

Entrance at Media Library

Cafeteria

Auxiliary Gym

Media Library

Classrooom

Science Lab Classroom

Main Gym

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.

RIDE THE BIKE TRAIN EVENT-APRIL 8!

There will be a group bike ride on the Elk River Trail, departing from the Historic Gassaway Train Depot and traveling southbound. Riders will depart at 10 AM on Saturday April 8. It doesn’t matter what skill level you are, from beginner to experienced, you are invited to join in the fun. The group plans to bike the trail about one mile and head back for

Elk River's first bicycle repair shop and April walking/ biking events!

lunch. Those who wish to ride further can certainly do so. Coffee will be served before the ride and lunch will be served at 12 noon.The event is rain or shine so hopefully the weather will cooperate. The event is sponsored by Bigfoot Braxxie’s Bikes and if there is good attendance, they are hoping to make it a monthly group ride.

THE ELK RIVER WALKING CLUB

Join the Elk River Walking Club on an Interactive Hike on Saturday, April 22, at the Queen Shoals Trailhead. The Club will meet at 11 AM and will ‘walk and learn’ with expert trail guide, Barry Curry, as they trek back toward Clendenin. Also, the Elk River Walking Club invites everyone to join them every Tuesday at 6 PM. They will start at the Clendenin North Trailhead near the DNRClendenin North Boat Launch at the upper end of town. You can walk as far as you want and as fast as you want. Take the first step and start moving today with the Elk River Walking Club!

BIGFOOT BRAXXIE’S BIKES

Elk River now has its first bicycle repair, rentals, and sale shop! They opened for business in March 2023 at 619 Elk Street in Gassaway. They are offering safety checks, flat fixes, bike tune ups and repairs. They also specialize in keeping old bikes out of the junk yard and into the hands of riders of all ages. Used bikes are also bought and sold at Bigfoot Braxxie’s Bikes.

Until April 15 their hours are Wednesday to Friday, 10 AM to 2 PM or by appointment. Give them a call at 304.853.0002 or visit them on Facebook/Bigfoot Baxxie’s Bikes.

CELEBRATING EARTH DAY & CELEBRATE TRAILS DAY, APRIL 22

April 22, 2023 is both Earth Day and the Rails-toTrails Conservancy’s Celebrate Trails Day. The Town of Clendenin is celebrating Earth Day in town and along the Elk River Trail through Clendenin by having a Clendenin Trail Sale. Vendors will be set up in Main Street in town, along the trail starting at

the gazebo, and at various residences with crafts, home items, apparel and assorted yard sale items.

Mayor Kay Summers said, “The inaugural Town of Clendenin city-wide yard and vendor sale will take place on Saturday, April 22, from the hours of 8 AM to 2 PM.” It’s a perfect time to gather up items you don’t use anymore and declutter your home. Remember the saying: Someone’s junk is someone else’s treasures! Buyers will be able to take a nice walk or a ride on the new paved portion of our Elk River Trail while they search for their newest treasures!

You can get your address/location on the Yard and Vendor Sale Master List by emailing erica.kearns@ clendeninwv.gov. Once the list is completed, it will be available for viewing on the Town of Clendenin’s Facebook page, the Town’s website Clendeninwv. gov, and at Clendenin Town Hall.

UPCOMING EVENTS IN CLENDENIN

CLENDENIN LITTLE LEAGUE

Yard Sale/Vendor Fair/ Hot Dog Sale on April 1 at the Clendenin Little League Field. To reserve your spot text or call Sarah at 304.389.3902 or Brandy at 304.989.4011. The cost is $10 per spot and all proceeds benefit the Clendenin Little League.

EASTER CELEBRATION

Bring your family and plan to spend Saturday, April 8, in Clendenin as they celebrate Easter with games, music, an Easter egg hunt, Easter Bunny Photos, a decorated bicycle, tricycle, wagon and an Easter Bonnet Parade on Main Street and more!

Check out The Town of Clendenin’s Facebook page and website Clendeninwv.gov for more details.

BIRDSEYE VIEW

Wolf Creek Contracting Company, LLC and ZMM Architects & Engineers shared images of the new Clendenin Elementary School under construction!

FEED THE PACK COOKBOOK

Are you looking for a perfect Easter or Mother’s Day gift? The Herbert Hoover High School Class of 1971 has just what you need! Order or pick up a copy of their Feed the Pack cookbook and you will also be contributing to a scholarship for a HHHS graduate who will be attending technical school. Two gifts for the price of one!

The HHHS Class of 1971 wanted to assist a graduate with the expenses of their vocational education. They chose vocational scholarships because of the limited sources of funding available for students pursuing careers in the vocational areas. This May the Class of 1971 will present their first scholarship at the HHHS Senior Assembly.

The Feed the Pack cookbook has 200 recipes from the classmates of 1971, all that are guaranteed to be “tasty, tried, and true,” from appetizers to desserts. You can pick up a cookbook at Ores-Clendenin Pharmacy in Clendenin or at Puzzled Pistols Boutique at Big Chimney. The price is only $19.71. If you would like to order a cookbook, please send $19.71 plus a donation for shipping and handling to Debbie Abel, PO Box 431, Pursglove, WV 26456.

THE ELK’S JOURNAL

CRAIG HALLORAN

Elk River acclaimed author Craig Halloran has just released Book 5, Smoke Ring, on March 31, 2023! This exciting book is the fifth of six books in his Epic Urban Fantasy Adventure: The Supernatural Dragon Hunter Files. Amazon said, “If you are a fan of the Dresden Files, The Blacklist, Supernatural, The X-Files, and all things wild and dragon crazy, grab this book now before the bad guys take it away.” You can follow him at:Facebook: The Darkslayer Report by Craig; Twitter: Craig Halloran and www.craighalloran. com (Website and Blog).

SUMMARY BY AMAZON:

Smoke and Sid’s search for a dragon haven leads them to an inescapable labyrinth of death.

Reinstated by the FBI, Smoke and Sid launch an investigation into the source of the swarming dragons. In abandoned warehouses on the fringe of the city, dragon hounds and draykis lie in wait to trap the heroes.The dragon army from another dimension builds in Washington, DC, in preparation for an apocalypse that will take over the government once and for all.

Running out of time, the heroes must rise or see their nation destroyed.

Excerpt from "Book 5: Smoke Ring"

Well, looks like it’s time to waste some bullets,” John said. He aimed two pistols to his left and fired. Sid aimed right, cracking off several shots at the dragon hounds charging toward her. Blam! Blam! Blam! Blam! Blam! Blam! Blue bullets streaked through the night, punching holes in the slavering beasts’ skulls and chests. Brains burst out of the back of one’s head. The others collapsed. One of them sprang back up again and renewed its charge. She emptied her clip in its face. Blam! Blam! Blam! Blam! Blam! Blam! Click. Sid dropped the empty magazine and loaded another.

All six hounds were dead. None of them had made it within ten feet of her and Smoke. Some of the bodies twitched, so they would be getting up soon. “I think we need to go,” John said. “Lead the way.” …“John, we need to get back to the car!” “I know. That’s where I’m going.” …

The rear tires spun. Rubber smoked and bit into the slick pavement before the Crown Victoria lunged forward. …Sid glanced in the rearview mirror to confirm it. “There must be at least twenty of them.” “More, I’d say.” He met her eyes in the mirror. “Life sure is full of surprises.” His eyes widened. “Sid, watch out!” A giant dragon hound with shoulders higher than the roof of the car blocked the road. She cut the wheel hard. The car fishtailed then flipped and rolled down the road.

Sid blacked out momentarily and moaned. The car was upside down, and she lay on the roof. John’s hand was touching hers. …“John, we have some company.” He rolled over the shattered glass and lay shoulder to shoulder with her. He pointed his gun alongside hers. “I think we can take them.” The throng of dragon hounds was too numerous to count. “Or not.” The dogs howled as one, then the sound rose to a deafening shriek. John cried out and covered his ears. The howling grew even louder. The glass on the ground started to shake. Sid curled up and clamped her hands over her ears too. She couldn’t think or feel. Her head swam. What is this madness? Suddenly, the world turned black.

If you are a fan of the Dresden Files, The Blacklist, Supernatural, The X-Files, and all things wild and dragon crazy, grab this book now before the bad guys take it away.”

– Amazon

"

ELLIOTT CHANDLER

This month ERL’s Reader Submission honors Elliott Chandler, a 2022 Herbert Hoover alumnus who just completed his US Air Force basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, TX. He represents three generations of airmen in the Chandler family.

Elloitt is the son of Fred and Kelli Myers Chandler of Big Chimney (brother Ethan). Proud grandparents are Fred and Debbie Chandler of Elkview; Jean Alford of Cross Lanes; Karen Medley of Elkview; Rick and Lori Myers of Elkview; and great grandmother Joan Medley of Elkview.

Elliott is now an Airman in aerospace propulsion technical school for the next 12 weeks at Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, TX. ERL salutes this fine young man and his achievement!

His grandfather, Fred L. Chandler III, retired from the USAF WVANG 130th Airlift Wing as a Master Sergeant after 29 years and his dad, Fred L. Chandler IV, retired from USAF WVANG 130th Airlift Wing as a Master Sergeant after 21 years. Send us a photo and description featuring your Elk River talents! Quilts, restored automobiles, gardens, photography, woodworking, we would LOVE

MADE AT THE COTTAGE

Check out Made at the Cottage’s new location at 207 Crossings Mall in Elkview. Their new spring restocks and arrivals have arrived and more shipments of adorable dresses, capris, tanks, tops, jeans, shorts, and more are arriving every week.

Made at the Cottage also has beautiful custom items, from metal art, engraved, cut wood, and acrylic. Don’t just pick up a gift, pick up a personalized gift and make it even more special for any occasion!

Also NEW, Bee Box Coffee and Bubble Tea shop inside the store as well as Boba Ice Cream, Snow Cones, Frozen Lemonades, and Hot Cocoa!

THE ELK’S STUDENTS

HHHS BASKETBALL

The HHHS Huskie basketball team defeated Pikeview 79-60 and took the Region 3 Championship as well as previously capturing the Sectional Championship. This was their third straight year qualifying for the State Tournament.

HHHS ARCHERY

Hoover archery is headed to the State Tournament on March 25 at the Charleston Coliseum and Convention Center. They qualified as the 3rd overall high school team (there is no distinction between AAA, AA, A).

D & E BOUND

Aly Miller has signed with Davis and Elkins to continue her education and her career in soccer.

ALDERSON BROADDUS

Braydon Walker has committed to Alderson

University where he will play Sprint Football for the Battlers.

HHHS

Broaddus

WRESTLING

Congrats to HHHS wrestlers who placed 9th at the WVSSAC High School State Wrestling Tournament with Orion Taylor (106) placing 4th and Andrew Rollyson (157) placing 5th in their respective weight classes.

Photo by Aubrie Abbot

TAYLOR MADE FARMS LLC

If you are thinking about a perfect wedding destination, you will want to check out Taylor Made Farms LLC’s Open House on Saturday, April 22 from Noon to 5 PM. There will be bookings at seriously discounted prices every hour, local vendors, food, music, and a live auction at 5 PM for all of the Open House wedding decor. For $1800 you can rent the barn, pavilion, groom and bride cabins, and 100 guest chairs (more chairs can be rented from a private vendor). The beautiful five-bedroom farmhouse (sleeps 10) is also available for $300 per night.

Come prepared to book your epic wedding (deposit required)! Every hour we will offer a new discount on weddings! DJs, photographers, cake decorators, wedding planners, bartenders, caterers, & more will be on-site. At 5 PM there will be a live auction of the Open House wedding decorations!

THE ELK REFLECTS

BRING ON THE HHHS HUSKIES!

In 1965 Herbert Hoover High School was finally able to open their football season on their own HHHS field. Before that the Huskies played their home games at Elkview Middle School due to the lack of a sports facility.

The Fall of 2023 will again be a great year for the Huskies, as they will play their home games at the new Herbert Hoover High School complex located in Elkview.

SCOTT ABBOT PHOTOGRAPHY

READYING THE SOIL

It's soil time! Gardens can be plowed when the soil starts to dry up in late March/early April, depending on the weather.

Local gardener Fred Hays said, “Seasoned gardeners have prepared their soil by having it dressed with manure or compost to enrich the soil over the winter.” Clendenin local Laura Boggess Shafer said, “ My husband, Frank, put manure on our garden and hayfields. If we had gotten any snow, my husband (Frank) even likes to plow the snow under to put nitrogen into the soil. He plans on plowing a large cornfield with the horses when it dries up enough.”

Hays stated that “My potatoes are already in the ground. The trick is to hit the recommended planting times when the soil is dry enough to work.” He recommends all cold weather crops should be planted before March 21 or as close to that date as

possible, again depending on the weather. These include carrots, lettuce, spinach, cabbage (coles) beets, cauliflower, broccoli, brussel sprouts, peas, and turnips.” These plants are known as coldweather crops because they can endure the chilly temperatures and they can be planted directly in the ground. He said, “If you wait and plant these later in the summer, you are likely to fail.” Hays also pointed out that weeds are a big problem also if you wait too long to get your cold-weather crops planted.

“For warm crops like tomatoes, peppers, beans, sweet potatoes, and eggplant, late April to early May is a better choice, except for corn which should be in the ground in early April,” said Hays. He recommends all garden beds should be limed as soon as possible except where potatoes are planted. You can check your soil to see if you need lime, nitrogen, etc., by

Laura Boggess Shafer and Fred Hays are this month’s contributing authors

visiting any WVU extension office (or get a form online by going to the extension website and choose soil testing to download the form). Mail the form with your soil sample to WVU and they will send you your results.

Shafer has started her warm-weather crops inside so they are ready to transplant when the soil is warmer. “I got a clear tote and potting soil today. We are using toilet paper rolls to start them in to recycle, then we just plant them in the garden and they will disintegrate according to what I have read and it says ice cream cones will also.”

CELLAR CHECK-UP

April is also a good time to clean your cellar. Shafer said, “During the winter we just set empty jars in the cellar. Now we go through the jars and check to see if

Canning Tipi

FROM LAURA BOGGESS SHAFER

When your local grocer has chicken at a reduced cost, it’s a good time to purchase and freeze it. Then whenever you have time, cook it, can it, and even can chicken broth. It’s great to make chicken and dumplings, soups, and chicken salad. People don’t think about things on sale to work up later.

we might need additional jars for this year’s crops.” You should also check your lids and purchase any additional lids and rings now. Later in the season they can be hard to find. She said this is a good time to inspect your canned goods to see if any jars are unsealed. “We don’t like it, but sometimes it happens.”

Once you straighten up your shelves you can take inventory of what you may want to plant this season. Shafer said, “If you didn’t use as much of one thing, you know you won’t need to plant as much this year. Likewise, you may want to plant more of something else. That’s kind of how we decide what to plant each spring”. She also suggested that you may want to grow your own dill, garlic, sage, basil. “My dill and sage did really well last year and we have grown garlic for quite a few years.”

WHISKEY WAYS BOUTIQUE

Have you been to the newest mom and me clothing shop in Sutton? Whiskey Ways is located at 166 Main Street in Sutton and they have an adorable selection of clothing and accessories for moms and kids (girls, boys and infants). You can also go to their Facebook/Whiskey Ways or their website and shop online!

Just in time for Easter and Mother’s Day shopping, they have 24 eggs with a gift card inside ranging from $5 to $150. Check out their Facebook for more details! Eggs will be drawn April 8th at 5 PM.

Photo credit: Austi

THE HEALTHY ELK

Common Cycling Injuries and How To Prevent Them

Submitted by Andi Geary, MPT, Cert. MDT, ATC, owner of Elk Valley Physical Therapy. Andi has been the owner of EVPT since 2010. She is a 1996 honors graduate with a Bachelor’s degree in sports medicine from University of Charleston and she graduated from WVU with a Masters in Physical Therapy. She is a proud HHHS alumnus and is very active in Elk River athletics and youth programs.

Neck

Hand

Don’t put too much pressure on the handlebars

Keep your shoulders down & relaxed to avoid tension Hip

Don’t ride too much in high gear

Knee

Don’t position your seat too low or too high

Foot & Ankle

Wear shoes that are the correct fit. Position your feet on your pedals well, not too far forward

Biking can be an enjoyable way to spend time with friends and family, but painful conditions can often arise and prevent continued participation. With some easy modifications, these painful occurrences can be corrected or prevented.

KNEE PAIN

Knee pain is the most common overuse complaint with biking. If your seat is too low, you will have to bend the knee too much, increasing the force over the knee cap and increasing the risk for anterior knee pain. If the seat is too high you will extend (straighten) the knee too much to reach the pedal at the bottom of pedaling, thus increasing the friction on the IT Band as it glides over the epicondyle. Proper height saddle should allow 25-30 degrees of flexion at the knee when the pedal is at the bottom of the cycle.

UROGENITAL PAIN/NUMBNESS

Another common complaint is numbness/pain in the genital or rectal area during and following biking. This is known as pudendal neuropathy and is often caused by the vessels to the genital area being compressed. Using a wide, padded seat is helpful in preventing this unfavorable condition. Some seats have part of the seat removed or you can try changing the tilt of the seat. Padded cycling shorts are also a nice, easy addition for increasing comfort during rides.

NECK PAIN

Several factors can contribute to neck pain.

1) Staying in the same riding position too long will increase the strain on the soft tissue in your neck and result in discomfort. Performing shrugs and neck range of motion exercises will decrease the load on these tissues and help prevent pain.

2) Improper form from handlebars being too low can result in rounding of the mid back and increased strain on the neck.

3) Tight hamstrings or hip flexor muscles lead to arching of the lower back which increases the need to hyperextend the neck and causes increased strain. Maintaining flexibility in your leg muscles will improve your ability to maintain proper form.

FOOT NUMBNESS/TINGLING

The most common cause for foot numbness/ pain is shoes that are too tight or narrow. Opt for a comfortable shoe that allows wiggle room for your toes.

WRIST/FOREARM PAIN OR NUMBNESS

Cyclists often find themselves with pain or numbness in their hands/forearms from maintaining positions too long or not having proper form. Elbows should be slightly bent during cycling to assist with shock absorption. Changing hand position from pressure on the inside to the outside of the palms and not allowing your wrists to drop below the handlebars can reduce pain and numbness in the hands. Padded gloves or changing the grip on the handlebars can also promote happier hands.

HEAD INJURIES

Head injuries, from minor scrapes to concussions, are very common and can often be prevented by wearing a properly fit helmet every time you ride.

With the arrival of spring will come nicer weather and more daylight to allow increased cycling. I hope these tips will allow you to stay on the trails or road and enjoy the great sights our state has to offer – especially on the Elk River Trail!