Elk River Living | Volume 05 | Issue 05

ELK RIVER LIVING ELK RIVER LIVING FEATURE STORY

HELLO & Welcome Back!

May brings such good things to life. Lilacs, azaleas, honeysuckles, trees and flowers are all ablaze in gorgeous spring colors. Mother’s Day, concession stands, summer sports, outdoor grilling, graduations, Memorial Day weekend, the opening of swimming pools, and school is out for the summer! It’s my favorite season!

As you are out and about, remember to stop in and visit our many Elk River restaurants, including The Swine Barrel at Elkview and Leona’s at Gassaway. You can read about these charming businesses in this month’s ERL. From authentic smoked BBQ and delicious food options to home-style cooking and my favorite, a country breakfast on Sunday morning, there is no reason to go home hungry!

Graduation always brings up the question, What next? ERL is proud to feature two of BridgeValley’s premier programs that offer nationally recognized curriculums with a blended model and a flexible, open schedule. These programs focus on careers with strong financial opportunities buoyed by West Virginia’s abundance of fossil fuels and chemical manufacturing.

Elk River native and program coordinator, Preston Fitzwater, wants to make sure Elk River students know about these two programs with excellent financial aid packages and a high percentage of job placements. Learn more about the Process Technology and Chemical Operations and the Instrumentation, Measurement & Control Technology: Natural Gas Measurement programs in this issue!

We hope you enjoy this month’s stories. Don’t forget to check out The Elk’s Garden and show off your green thumb this summer. Also, congratulations to our wonderful Elk River students and their great accomplishments! Amazing things are always happening on the River and ERL is happy to be a part of all of it!

See you next month! Stay safe dear friends!

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

A smokin’ hot menu is available at The Swine Barrel in Elkview. This scrumptious photo (which makes me want to grab a plate and fork) is by Scott Abbott of Scott Abbott Photo.

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 BREWING CO.

304.548.4505

2 Main St., Clendenin

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

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 RIVER GET-A-WAY

304.993.0006

16544 N. Elk River Rd., Clendenin

ELK RIVER PADDLE & YAK

304.314.3880

Kayak Rentals and Shuttle Service

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

FROSTBITE DAIRY BAR

304.548.7413

1 Cobb Ave., Clendenin

GABBY’S SEWING & MORE

304.437.3739

4506 Penn. Ave, Charleston gabbyssewingwv.com

GARNET MOON BOUTIQUE

304.644.9850

229 Main St, Sutton

www.darkroomjeweler695.etsy.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)

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

HOMESTEAD INSPECTION LLC

304.965.4866

Elkview - Mike Criner

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

LEONA’S

304.364.5770

517 Elk St., Gassaway

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

MOUNTAIN LAKES

MARKETPLACE

304.701.2012

33 Skidmore Lane, Sutton

MT. PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH

304.965.7062 mpbcwv.org

NALU’S STYLE STUDIO LLC

304.343.2049

2777 Penn. Ave, Charleston

NANCY KUHL

SEWING & ALTERATIONS

304.965.0747

Text 681.340.0409

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

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

ROLLIN’ SMOKE BBQ

304.965.0808

4008 Penn. Ave, Charleston

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

SUMMERSVILLE

LAKE RENTALS

304.546.6823

120 Oak Grove Cutoff, Summersville summersvillelakerentals.com

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

YAK HOUSE RENTALS

304.941.2229

403 Elk Ave., Clendenin

Reservations: yakhouserentals.com

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.

MAY LIBRARY EVENTS

Family Craft: Mental Health Awareness Month

Jump into Storytime

Playgroup at the Library

Painting with Acrylics

STEM Afternoon

Jump into Storytime

Playgroup at the Library

Kids Sewing Club

Family Fun: Library Treasure Hunt

Adult Crafternoon: Calming Collage

Jump into Storytime

Playgroup at the Library

Kids Paint: Dinosaur Sunset

Adult Craft: Calming Collage Jump into Storytime

Playgroup at the Library

Family Fun: Crafts and Snacks Elk Valley Book Group

Teen Time: Ukrainian Egg Art

Jump into Storytime

Playgroup at the Library

Full STEM Ahead: Her Majesty's Royal Scientist

Adult Play Group: Games, Crafts and Conversation Puppies and Kittens Oh, My!

Family/All Ages

Children 0 - 5 years

Children 0 - 5 years

Tweens, Teens, Adults & Seniors

Family/All Ages

Children 0 - 5 years

Children 0 - 5 years

Children & Tweens

Family/All Ages

Adults

Children 0 - 5 years

Children 0 - 5 years

Family/All Ages

Adults

Children 0 - 5 years

Children 0 - 5 years

Family/All Ages

Adults

Teens

Children 0 - 5 years

Children 0 - 5 years

Family/All Ages

Adults

Family/All Ages

THE ELK’S COOKBOOK

FRIED ICE CREAM DESSERT

We visited Maria’s Mexican in Sutton, WV over Easter weekend with our grandson, Colton Tawney. He had never tried fried ice cream before, and let’s just say, Maria’s did not disappoint! I was so excited to find this easy recipe for Fried Ice Cream in Gabi Strickland Walker’s/Walker Mtn. Eats Facebook Group! It’s easy and delicious and I am thinking Colton can surprise his mom, Amy, on Mother’s Day with his new favorite dessert!

FRIED ICE CREAM DESSERT

INGREDIENTS DIRECTIONS

• ½ C. Butter

• ½ C. Sugar

• 1 T. Honey

• 3 C. Crushed Corn Flakes

• 1.5-2 Qt. Vanilla Ice Cream, softened (not vanilla bean)

• 8 Oz. Extra Creamy Cool Whip

• 1 t. Cinnamon

• 1 T. Honey

• Additional honey for garnish

STEP 1 Spray the bottom of a 9 x 13 baking dish with PAM.

STEP 2 In a large pot over medium heat, melt butter. Stir in sugar until dissolved. Add honey and crushed corn flakes. Allow corn flakes to "fry" in butter sauce for about 3 mins. Press 1/3 of the corn flake mixture in the bottom of the prepared 9x13 pan.

STEP 3 In a large bowl or in the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the softened ice cream and cool whip and mix altogether. Add the cinnamon and honey. Mix again.

STEP 4 Spread the ice cream mixture evenly over the cornflake mixture in the pan. Now top the ice cream layer with the remaining cornflake mixture.

STEP 5 Cover and freeze until set, about 1-2 hours. Serve with a drizzle of honey on each slice.

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

ENJOY A SMOKIN’-HOT MENU AT THE SWINE BARREL!

Who says fairy tales don’t come true? Certainly not new Elk River business owners Justin and Ciara Teel! ERL is definitely a sucker for “happily ever after” stories, and the Teels and The Swine Barrel exemplify our dream-come-true feature article for May. The Teels had a vision and said,“We took what many saw as a dilapidated community eyesore, scrubbed away the 2016 flood mud, and turned it into a place that feels like home.”

Where is The Swine Barrel you may be wondering? Well, remember the little building on the left of the road right before you cross the Elkview Bridge at Smith’s Plaza? You know, the one that used to have cemetery monuments out front with high grass that sat empty waiting for someone to give it new love? Actually, some of us remember it even before as Lapp’s Goody Shop and later as a little jewelry/pawn shop. After hours of cleaning and renovations, it has now been transformed into The Swine Barrel, located at 1009 Main Street in Elkview, featuring authentic BBQ and other delicious food in a charming setting.

Photos by Scott Abbott of Scott Abbott Photo

The eclectic decor of The Swine Barrel clearly reflects the artistic talent of Ciara.You can see her inspiring artwork and heartfelt, welcoming touches on every wall, even in the restroom! She also likes mixing her love of art with home decor and customized t-shirts and merchandise.

What makes The Swine Barrel different? Ciara said, “We cut no corners when it comes to serving our friends, family, and community. We only serve the freshest, homemade goodness that slow smoking and hard work will allow. No store-bought, saucedup food for us!”

Justin built his own smoker with his brother Steve 15 years ago. Together they catered local events serving their delicious smoked bbq, tacos and more. He is happy to now have a storefront location where they can serve friends and family and share Elk River camaraderie plus listen to a few of Justin’s Tall-TeelTales.

Their mouth-watering menu includes appetizers, sides, sandwiches, platters, and amazing gourmet cupcakes for dessert. You can make a meal from the Tidbits (Appetizers) which include smoked deviled

eggs, sausage balls, caprese salad, and smoked queso dip. I’m advocating for a Tidbit Platter! Of course, it would be hard to pass up the side dishes of smoked mac n’ cheese, cornbread salad, macaroni salad, smoked baked beans, and purple or apple cranberry slaw. They have assorted soft drinks and a variety of beverages on tap.

The Swine Barrel offers classic sandwiches/ platters. Choose from their smoked shaved turkey, seasoned to perfection; slow smoked, hand-pulled pork seasoned with their original dry rub; or juicy smoked pork loin covered in Justin’s original, swine dry rub and served with sweet and sassy raspberry dipping sauce. You can also pick up meat-to-go; preorder in advance for large orders.

Whether you dine in or--coming soon--eat outside in their new outdoor seating area, The Swine Barrel will have everyone oohing and ahhhing and wanting more! Also, save room for some scrumptious banana pudding or or one of their maple bacon gourmet cupcakes for dessert.

Justin and Ciara are also going to offer daily specials aside from their regular menu in the near future.

Ciara said, “Sometimes you just want meatloaf and mashed potatoes or other great comfort food, and we are going to offer a variety of home-cooked favorites.” Watch their Facebook/The Swine Barrel, to see what they will be serving up each day!

Friends and family have watched Ciara and Justin through the years emerge as their very own Elk River fairy tale. They started dating when they were at Herbert Hoover High School, fell in love, married, and have two great kids, Paige (senior, HHHS) and Kohen (7th grader, EMS).

Depending on when you visit The Swine Barrel, you are likely to see Paige, Kohen, nephew Quinton, or a host of family members and close friends helping behind the scenes. Both Ciara and Justin have thriving careers now coupled with their new business entrepreneurship. They said, “We couldn’t do it without the wonderful support of our family and friends”.

Ciara said, “We’ve always gravitated toward adventures and dreams and the Elk River is not just where we’re from, but it is who we are.” In fact,

the Teels have partnered with their Hoover alma mater’s woodworking class to create their official sign for The Swine Barrel. Ciara said, “We are Hoover graduates who take pride in giving back to our school and our community.” They even have a Husky Student Special on their menu.

Also, exciting news! This fall at the new Herbert Hoover High School home football games, fans will find BBQs from The Swine Barrel on the concession stand menu!

Without a doubt, the Teels want The Swine Barrel to be “the perfect place to share our love of good food with our great friends and Elk River neighbors!” The hours of operation are: Wednesday-Friday from 3-8 PM, and from 12 Noon-8 PM on Saturday. On Sunday they will also offer a limited menu from 12 Noon-2 PM.

Check out their Facebook, scan the QR code to visit their website, or contact them at 304.885.4691. Ciara and Justin said, “Bring your friends, bring your families, and most of all, bring your appetite!”

BRIDGEVALLEY'S PROGRAMS WITH PURPOSE

With great financial aid, grants and scholarships, BridgeValley provides the education and job placement that leads to great career choices in process technology and natural gas measurement.

Investing in college or continuing education and training is more important now than ever before. Not only is it a driving force for hiring, but it can help you increase your earning potential, opportunities for promotions, and career advancement.

Heading into 2023, two of BridgeValley Community and Technical College’s programs, 1) Process Technology and Chemical Operations and 2) Instrumentation, Measurement & Control Technology: Natural Gas Measurement, focus on careers with strong financial opportunities buoyed by West Virginia’s abundance of fossil fuels and chemical manufacturing.

West Virginia is the nation's fourth-largest producer of marketed natural gas. The state is within the Marcellus & Utica Shale production regions, one of the largest natural gas-producing areas in the United States. West Virginia had more than 32 trillion cubic feet of shale gas reserves at the end of 2020, 10% of the nation's total. West Virginia also has over 3,000 miles of natural gas transmission pipeline in the state.* Natural gas is viewed as a transition fuel to allow further development of low carbon alternatives and will continue to remain a part of the US energy mix. *Statistics are from the Energy Information Administration (EIA) and Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Administration (PHMSA). Process Technicians and Gas Measurement Technicians are always in demand as they are key personnel in any company in the chemical manufacturing and oil and gas businesses.

PROCESS TECHNOLOGY & CHEMICAL OPERATIONS

Elk River native Preston Fitzwater understands the employment opportunities for chemical operators in the Kanawha Valley. As the Program Coordinator/Instructor for BridgeValley’s Process Technology and Chemical Operations, he shares his knowledge and expertise with students who are interested in entering the chemical industry in the Valley. Fitzwater said, ”There will be a high rate of retirement in the plants over the next few years and the companies are eager to hire from

our BridgeValley programs. I want to see more of the workforce come from our talented Elk River community. The aid tied to BridgeValley’s technology programs makes it possible for a student to graduate with near zero debt.” He added, “I want to ensure our program information is getting out to all of our Elk River parents, students, and educational administrators.” BridgeValley’s Process Technology Program offers a one-year certificate in Chemical Operations and a two-

Process Technology Lab

Process Technology Lab

year AAS degree in Process Technology, all with a wide range of financial aid assistance and grants. Students who complete the one-year certificate program also have the option of transferring the credits toward the program’s two-year AAS degree.

”BridgeValley’s Process Technology program uses a nationally recognized curriculum that enables our graduates to get jobs as Chemical Operators anywhere in the country. Several Chemical companies in the valley like Dow, Covestro, Chemours, and others have apprenticeships that draw from our students,” Fitzwater explained. “Our placement rate is near 95% and I am proud to see our graduates secure meaningful employment when or even before they graduate.”

The program develops skills for students to be employed as operators in the process industry. Fitzwater said, “Graduates will use standard test equipment to perform chemical tests and monitor gauges, signals, and recording instruments. They will troubleshoot problems and operate controls to regulate temperatures, pressures, levels, and flows to keep parameters within critical limits.”

The program uses a blended model which allows a portion of the coursework to be done out of class, but students are required to come to campus to work with the instructor for hands-on activities. Students follow a flexible, open schedule that allows them to come to campus morning, afternoon or evenings.

Fitzwater retired from Dow Chemical in 2019 and reached out to BridgeValley because he was interested in teaching a class. At the end of his interview, he was the Program Coordinator! His 7 years in the Navy, his employment at Dupont and Carbide/Dow for 40 years as an operator and trainer, and his 4 years with Dow in Saudi Arabia provided him with a tremendous learning experience. He has lived in Clendenin since the early 80’s and he and his wife were both raised in Clay County. Their two daughters, Amanda Grayam and Amelia Shafer, as well as their two grandsons, Jack and Nick Grayam, all graduated from Herbert Hoover High School.

“I am really encouraged about everything that is going on in Clendenin and on the Elk River,” said

Fitzwater. ”I am excited to help more students in our Elk River community secure meaningful careers in process technology and chemical operations and be the change they want to see in their future.”

INSTRUMENTATION , MEASUREMENT & CONTROL TECHNOLOGY: NATURAL GAS MEASUREMENT

Ken Haynes is the Department Chair at BridgeValley’s Instrumentation, Measurement & Control Technology: Natural Gas Measurement Program. “The area’s leading natural gas companies, including TC Energy, Mountaineer Gas, Diversified Energy, and others, offer apprenticeships and hire from this program as well.” Haynes said, “We have had our program for 5 years with 15 graduates, all of whom are working, and many have had multiple job offers. That 100% placement rate clearly reflects the program’s success.”

Haynes explained, “Our program combines technical theory, use of state-of-the-art equipment, and hands-on experience necessary to work in industrial instrumentation fields across the state and throughout the country, including chemical operations, upstream, midstream, and downstream oil and gas, petrochemical, and power generation industries.” The program uses a blended model which allows students to work from home on a portion of the coursework but they, too, are required to visit campus to work with the instructor for hands-on lab activities. They also have an open schedule so students can come to the campus morning, afternoon, or evenings -whatever best fits their schedule.

Program goals, according to Haynes, “will allow students to develop skills for the installation, calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of systems used specifically in the natural gas industry. Graduates will measure and control the flow, level, temperature and pressure in the drilling, transportation, and processing of natural gas.”

Two of the program’s instructors are Kervin “Buzz” Knapp and Ken Haynes who have had successful

careers in the industry; specifically, people who have been there and have actually done the jobs, including Haynes with 35 years and Knapp with 39 years of experience. Haynes said, “We have numerous contacts in the industry for internships and job placement. Last summer we had one company who worked with us with an internship and already this year we have three companies we are partnering with on internships.” Haynes explained that they have a mix of students who participate. “Sometimes students are actually hired and paid to work as interns for several days a week and then work on their studies the other days. Some are interns who will be hired with that company upon graduation. There are many scenarios and students can choose what is best for them.”

Haynes said the starting pay for a graduate in their program is between $20-$35/hour which is $40,000

to $75,000, averaging $50,000 a year. Additionally, many employers encourage employees to continue their education and the company will reimburse their educational costs. He said they are currently working with Diversified to develop a program for the progression of their Technician I, II, and III skill levels. “They are partnering with us to test for proficiency in skills for their employees’ career development.”

Another program advantage is their financial aid packaging. Haynes said, “After a student’s financial aid and grants have been applied, WV Invest scholarships are available to pick up most of the remaining balance so a student can basically graduate debt free.”

TALK WITH THEM PERSONALLY TO LEARN MORE

If you would like to know more about either of these programs, Fitzwater and Haynes encourage you to give them a call and talk with them personally and arrange for a tour of their departments. Bridge Valley Community and Technical College is located at 2001 Union Carbide Drive, South Charleston, WV. All of their program instructors go the extra mile with their students, offering extra help when needed. With their programs’ flexible online classes, hands-on labs, and availability for oneon-one instructor assistance, these two featured BridgeValley programs are excellent programs with proven success rates.

Gas Measurement Program Lab Gas Measurement Program Lab

LEONA’S RESTAURANT

IS A HIDDEN GEM IN GASSAWAY

Leona Lytle | Owner

If you are in the Gassaway area and are hungry, let us recommend a great place to eat! Leona’s Restaurant has a delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner menu featuring homestyle cooking like we all know and love. Also, don’t miss their big, Sunday morning country-style breakfast which is served until 11 AM, followed by their dinner specials until 3 PM.

The owner, Leona Lytle, is no stranger to the Elk River restaurant industry. Many may also know her from Granny’s Kitchen where she previously

worked for several years. When the former City Diner closed in Gassaway, Leona decided it was a good time to invest in her own restaurant. “We spent a lot of time remodeling the old diner and officially opened for business this past October 2022,” said Lytle. “We also just extended our hours this spring and now we are open Monday-Friday from 8 AM to 4 PM, closed on Saturday and open on Sunday from 8 AM to 3 PM.”

Lytle’s family is great to pitch in where needed. Depending on what day you visit, you can see

Jon, Makayla, Hayley, or Derick helping out in the kitchen or dining area. She said, “I am so blessed to have such a great family because they know the importance of keeping quality intact while maintaining great customer service.”

You can see Leona’s Daily Specials each day on Facebook /Leona’s. Try their Philly Cheesesteak, hamburgers, homemade spaghetti and meatballs, chicken stuffing casserole, baked steak or ham, baby back ribs, pulled pork BBQs, hotdogs, taco salads, and more…there is always something delicious being served each day! Also, don’t forget to add a slice of homemade pie or a delicious brownie deluxe for dessert!

Each month Leona’s hosts a special event at no charge for the kids in the community. One month they featured characters from Disney’s Frozen complete with coloring sheets, activities gift bags, and photos with the children. Their April event even had a surprise visit from the Easter Bunny! For May we hear Bluey will be there dancing and playing with the kids! Watch their Facebook for more information on each month’s event.

exciting to see family and friends visiting and shopping at new and existing businesses. We support one another and it’s a great feeling to see the town alive and flourishing.

- Leona Lytle

Are you looking for a place to gather for a special event? Leona’s also has a second dining room which is available to rent for your events, including showers, birthday and graduation parties. Message Leona on Facebook or call 304.364.5770 for reservations.

Whatever brings you to town, a day of shopping or enjoying the Elk River Trail or Water Trail, remember to stop by Leona’s family-owned and operated restaurant! They offer dine-in, carry out, and local delivery. Visit them soon at 517 Elk Street in Gassaway!

It’s

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.

ONE–YEAR WALKING ANNIVERSARY

The Elk River Walking Club celebrated their oneyear anniversary! This dedicated group meets every Tuesday at 6 PM at the Clendenin North Trailhead. It’s a great time to walk as fast and as much as you want--no rules--just join them and start walking toward a healthier you.

USDA RD Project, Walking Anniversary, Nottingham's Store & More!

ERT SELECTED AS SIGNATURE PROJECT

West Virginia United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development ( USDA RD) is very pleased that the Elk River Trail initiative is a new, signature project of the Rural Partners Network, an all-of-government program to help rural communities find resources to create jobs, build infrastructure, and support long-term economic stability on their own terms. USDA appreciates its partnership with the Appalachian Regional Commission, one of the signature agency partners in the Rural Partners Network.

USDA RD has selected the Elk River Trail as a signature project, as part of USDA’s “Pioneer Trail Town Development & Expansion of Recreation Economies” initiative. The Pioneer Trail initiative will help unleash the potential of recreation economies in Braxton, Clay, and Kanawha Counties and beyond into Lewis, Gilmer, Calhoun, Wirt and Wood counties in WV. USDA seeks to move this partnership forward to leverage efforts by USDA, ARC, U.S. and WV DOT, U.S. EDA, WV DEP, and other agencies to bring as much as $4.75 million in additional resources to Trail Town development in these targeted “Pioneer” areas of central West Virginia.

NOTTINGHAM’S STORE

Hungry and tired after biking, walking or kayaking on the trail or water trail?. Stop by Nottingham’s Store at the Duck Trailhead! Daily Specials, Chicken Wings or Chicken Strips, Fries, Nachos, Cheese Sticks, Egg Rolls, or Fresh Pizza! Also, delicious chocolate, strawberry and vanilla milkshakes and soft serve ice cream! 304.364.8596 11AM to 4PM Mon-Sat. 75 Nottingham Store Rd., Duck, WV.

TRAIL SHOTS

Clendenin Brewing Company, Elk River Nutrition, Elk River Baking Company, and Frostbite Dairy Bar hid eggs along the Elk River Trail between Clendenin and Queen Shoals for a special Easter treat for trail visitors!

The trail has been busy, especially on warm, rain-free days!

Rollerblading on the Elk River Trail in Clendenin! One mile of paved trail through town! Excellent for skateboards and scooters also!

Eagle sighting on Elk River Trail north of Duck Trailhead. Always a thrill. - Ken Tawney

THE ELK’S JOURNAL

TALE OF THE ELK BY W.E.R "BILL" BYRNE

If you haven’t read Tale of the Elk by W.E.R. Byrne, you are missing a great read!

W.E.R. “Bill” Byrne was a lawyer by trade but a fisherman by heart. In his Tale of the Elk, he tells stories of the many friends he made who lived along the Elk River. He also shares many fishing stories of his buddies in West Virginia. In delightful West Virginia folklore, Byrne shares West Virginia history you won’t find anywhere else.

Ken Sullivan, Executive Director of the WV Humanities, writes, “Bill Byrne traveled every inch of the Elk River, gathering friends, fish, and fish tales along the way. The Tale of the Elk is a classic-West Virginia’s answer to Norman MacLean’s A River Runs Through It (distributed by the West Virginia Book Company). Amazon says, “Tale of the Elk captures the physical beauty and political climate of the times, usually with Byrne’s signature sense of humor. Byrne was stricken with pneumonia at this beloved “Camp at the End of the World” on the Elk, and died December 11, 1937 at the age of 75.”

Tale of the Elk is available on Amazon in Kindle, hardcover, and paperback. It is also available at local bookstores, Goodreads, Barnes & Noble, WV Book Company, Google and more.

Excerpt from "Chapter 1: The Headwaters"

A short time ago (1927), my friend G. A (Gus) Bolden, editor and general manager of West Virginia Wild Life Magazine, asked me if it were not true that I had traversed Elk River and had fished all the way from its headspring to the mouth. In an unguarded moment and with no thought of consequences, I admitted the impeachment or distinction,whichever it may be regarded: and was then and there by him commissioned and commanded to proceed to write this Tale or these Tales of the Elk, on the installment plan, for his magazine.

There being no conditions imposed, no rules or regulations prescribed, I propose to tell the story in my own way, make it long or short, as I please, leave the main stream and wander up the creeks, ravines, or mountain sides, whenever the notion strikes me, seek to vitalize in passing, lingering or loitering, the inanimate, and feel free to draw on the imagination when necessary for vitality or embellishment--in fact, using free hand in both warp and woof, for foreground, background, perspective, setting, and color-endeavoring always, however, to keep at least within the watershed of the main stream--and also of the main truth.

JILL MOLES MULLINS PHOTOGRAPHY

Elk River Award Winning Photographer, Jill Moles Mullins, has been making a debut in several new magazines. She was featured in recent editions of Snap’d Magazine with her stunning elk and eagle pictures. Another picture, Star Gazing in the New River Gorge National Park, was featured in Snap’d this month. This photo is on display in the current gallery show at Tamarack Marketplace on high gloss metal.

Additionally, Jill’s beautiful pictures of the Ponce Inlet lighthouse in Florida have been selected as

cover photos for three magazines. Her picture of the moon and the lighthouse made the cover of the April Illuminations magazine and her sunset rays on the lighthouse photo will be on the cover of their July issue. Also, the sunset rays/lighthouse picture is currently featured on the cover of Snap’d magazine. Congrats to our talented Elk River native, Jill!

Jill Moles Mullins Photography Clendenin, WV www.jillmullinsphotography.com

HHHS MAY 2023 PICTORIAL TOUR

By Guest Author and Photographer, Tim Cunningham, of Tim Takes Photography

As promised, here are the latest photos depicting the progress at the new Herbert Hoover High School in Elkview. Interior work still advances at a rapid pace and the substantial completion date has been updated to June 20 which is still ahead of the contractual agreement.

As for the athletic fields, weather delays from this spring’s rain and wind have been an inhibiting factor. Much of the exterior work and the athletic fields need several days in a row of favorable weather and Mother Nature did not cooperate for much of April. The exterior substantial completion date is currently June 13, 2023.

Second Floor Hallway

Science Lab

Football Stands

Cafeteria

Main Gym

Main Entrance

Hallway

Second Floor of Media

Baseball & Softball Fieldhouse

Batting Cages

THE ELK’S STUDENTS

ELKHOUNDS WVDNR CHAMPIONS 2023

WV JR. STATE YOUTH WRESTLING CHAMPIONSHIP

Lead Dog Wrestling had two champions at the WV Jr. State Wrestling Championship. Quest Bostic, age 6, won the 6U 45 lb. first place award, not giving up a point the entire tournament. Nathan Johnson, Jr., age 8, was the champion of the 8U 85 lb. division.

COLLEGE SIGNINGS

The Elk Elementary Center Elkhounds claimed the WVDNR Championship for the third straight year. They finished their season 45-0. Three girls and four boys placed in their respective divisions. The girls are Allie Childress - 5th place, Aubrianuh Eggleston - 4th place, and Kaliauna Meadows - 3rd place. The boys are Jack Cantrell - 10th place, Dylan Oldaker - 9th place, Brayden Mitchell - 7th place, and Evan Woody - 2nd place. Coach Jeff Mullins said,” It is exciting to know that six of the top ten elementary girls came from our Elk River Schools (Bridge and Elk Center)”.

HHHS ALL COUNTY CHORUS

Congrats to the new HHHS 2023 All County Chorus members! Members are: Maggie Allison, Aubri Abbott, Haley Bosley, Chloe Carter, Ruby Coe, Lexius Crowder, William Drake, Aaron Engle, Dameona Forney, Landon George, Faith Good, Emilee Haddox, Madison Hartline,Kelsea Hoffman, Kurt Keeling, Alex Kushner, Jade Longwell, Allison Miller, Hanna Moore, Caidynce Nutter, Sofia Perna, Ashley Prowse, Ryan Pollack, Olivia Rupe, Alexa Sekercak, David Tweel, Colton Woods, Parker Workman, and Robert Young. Director is Kathy Silber.

MU MARCHING THUNDER COLOR GUARD

Jillian Dolin was chosen as a Color Guard for Marshall University! The Marching Thunder Color Guard performs on a variety of equipment including flags, rifles, and sabers.

PRESIDENT & FIRST LADY CANDIDATES

Here are the ten candidates for the 2023 Herbert Hoover High School President and First Lady. Girls L-R: Aly Miller, Sydney Bright, Caroline Dysart, Regan Geary, and Emma Kee; Boys L-R: Kaleb Lipscomb, Eli Robertson, Levi Paxton, Marquise Walker, and Ryne Geary.

Rebecca Stodola and Abby Hanson were selected for the WV State University 1890 full-ride scholarships!

Eli Robertson has committed to continue his basketball career and academics at University of Charleston.

THE ELK REFLECTS

TAKE ME HOME, COUNTRY ROADS

Take Me Home, Country Roads

Almost heaven, West Virginia

Blue Ridge Mountains

Shenandoah River –

Life is old there

Older than the trees

Younger than the mountains

Growin’ like a breeze

Country Roads, take me home

To the place I belong

West Virginia, mountain momma

Take me home, country roads

All my memories gathered round her Miners lady, stranger to blue water

Dark and dusty, painted on the sky

Misty taste of moonshine

Teardrops in my eye

Country Roads, take me home

To the place I belong

West Virginia, mountain momma

Take me home, country roads

I hear her voice

In the mornin’ hour she calls me

The radio reminds me of my home far away

And drivin’ down the road I get a feelin’

That I should have been home yesterday, yesterday

It’s official! The Library of Congress has added Take Me Home, Country Roads by recording artist John Denver, to their National Recording Registry. It was 1 of 25 new song titles added this year.

West Virginia University adopted Take Me Home, Country Roads as part of their pre-football game performance in 1972. Since that time, it has become tradition, and there isn’t an alumni dry-eye in the home crowd when the band plays this song and breaks into the formation of the state of West Virginia. It has also become tradition for the fans to stand and sing Country Roads with WVU athletes at the end of University sporting events.

Country Roads, take me home

To the place I belong

West Virginia, mountain momma

Take me home, country roads

Country Roads, take me home

To the place I belong

West Virginia, mountain momma

Take me home, country roads

Take me home, now country roads

Take me home, now country roads

Words and Music by Bill Danoff, Taffy Nivert and John Denver

John Denver at WVU | featured in The Daily Athenaeum

featured on Fan Buzz | Joe Grobeck | Dec 2021

THE SECRET OF MARIGOLDS

Laura Boggess Shafer is this month’s contributing author

You know it’s Mother’s Day when you see little dixie cups with flowering plants in them, ready to go home to all of the mommies of elementary students! It is a tradition,proudly scurrying home with your homemade Mother’s Day treat (a special shout out to all of the elementary and Sunday School teachers who helped facilitate this memorable activity!).

A good plant for your Mother’s Day cup should be a marigold. Not only are they colorful and sturdy, they can help deter deer from your flower garden. Even though some may call this an old wives’ tale, many gardeners say the deer haven’t bothered their flower beds with marigolds planted in them. Laura Boggess Shafer of Clendenin said, “Our Amish friends,

TIME TO HIT THE DIRT

Plowing is in full swing for gardeners in May. MidMay or Mother’s Day usually signals that the threat of frost is over (fingers crossed) and everyone feels comfortable planting their flower beds and gardens. Laura said her husband, Frank, and her grandson, Jake (age 4 who loves to ride with grandpa), have been plowing their corn field with a riding plow pulled by horses. This is the first time he has plowed with the riding plow and he also used a walking plow behind the horses as well. Tiller, hoe, rake, shovel or whatever you decide to use to plow – it’s time!

Linda, Martha, Verna, and Effie, plant an outer row of marigolds around their smaller gardens near their house.”

If you haven’t planted your lettuce seeds, onions, beets, carrots and potatoes, it is not too late. You need to get them in the ground now though. Also, if you love fresh herbs, now is the time to sow your seeds: like the song says “parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme”…and some dill and oregano, too!

EARLY PREP

Laura said, “One idea for those who like to can is to use canned or frozen juice to make jelly now on these cooler days. She added, “Making jelly is a very warm job.” Several people are making specialty jellies such as purple violet jelly, dandelion jelly, and redbud jelly. You need at least two cups of these early blooms for most recipes.

Another early prep is to prepare for strawberries as they normally will be coming on in May. She said, “Our local strawberry patch is getting ready for picking in May.” Also, Laura suggests now would be a good time to check your spices that you will need for your favorite canning recipes. She said, “When

the time comes to can you may not find the spices you need, so be prepared.” The same holds true for canning lids, rings and jars. Laura said, “Prices are high now and I’m sure they will go even higher as canning season gets closer”. Plow, plant, and prep… the month of May is an important month to have you on your way to this year’s successful garden!

DANDELION JELLY

From the Kitchen of Laura Boggess Shafer

INGREDIENTS

• 4 cups dandelion tea liquid (from preparation)

• 2 T. lemon juice

• 1 box Sure Jel (I used bulk dutch jel from Amish country)

• 4 C. sugar

Notes: Pick clean dandelions (choose a location where there are no animals or where they have not been sprayed with anything). Cut all green off the dandelions.

As a kid I loved eating the skimmings off of the plate when grandma made jelly. Our grandson,Marshall, liked eating the skimings, too!

DIRECTIONS

Preparation

Canning Recipe • Water Bath

Store in a cool dry place

STEP 1 Place 2 cups of flowers in a bowl. Pour 4 cups of boiling water over them.

STEP 2 Once cool, cover and put in the refrigerator for 24 hours.

STEP 3 Strain to make your “dandelion tea” liquid. It is a little dark, but once you have made the jelly, it will be a golden-honey color

Procedure

STEP 1 Bring the tea, lemon juice, and Sure Jel to a full, rolling boil.

STEP 2 Add 4 cups of sugar. Bring back to a full rolling boil. Boil for 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

STEP 3 Stir - then remove skimmings

STEP 4 Ladle into jars. Clean rims, put on lids and rings. Process 10 minutes in a boiling water bath.

THE HEALTHY ELK

What to expect at physical therapy following a total knee replacement

Submitted by Whitney Ferrell, PTA. Whitney joined Elk Valley Physical Therapy during the summer of 2021. She is a graduate of Pierpont Community and Technical College in Fairmont, WV.

Many people will require a total knee replacement in their lifetime. According to Medbridge education, there are over 600,000 total knee replacement surgeries performed annually. Most patients are nervous and do not know what to expect following surgery and in physical therapy.

After surgery, you can typically expect to leave the hospital in 24-48 hours. Before discharge, you will walk with the help of a PT. Your first thought may be to lay in bed and rest; however, movement is key to a successful recovery. Failure to be active can result in excessive stiffness and weakness, making your rehabilitation more difficult. You can expect bruising, swelling, stiffness and pain due to the nature of surgery. Your knee was completely replaced with a new artificial joint! So you can imagine the work that needed to be done. Ice is particularly helpful to control soreness following your exercises or any activity and to control inflammation. It is recommended to ice for 15-20 minutes after exercise and as needed, with a thin barrier such as a pillowcase between your skin and ice pack.

Normally, patients will begin outpatient PT within a week of surgery. Your first visit will be an evaluation

with a licensed Physical Therapist. During this visit measurements will be taken and rehab goals will be established. You will also be given exercises to do at home, in addition to the exercises you will perform in therapy. It is important to begin exercises early and consistently to regain your knee motion and strength. This will also result in your knee being less painful. Therapy sessions following the evaluation are typically an hour, 2-3 times a week. These sessions will focus on pain management and getting your knee back to normal. As your knee improves, you can expect your program to progress and become more challenging so you can return to everyday activities without difficulty.

Patients will then be discharged from therapy to continue exercises at home on their own. It can take 6-12 months to return to more physically demanding activities and for your knee to feel completely “normal” again. Keep in mind every knee is different and everyone will have different experiences. Physical therapists are trained to customize your exercise program to fit your needs and ensure you have a positive outcome.

The rehabilitation of a total knee can be physically and emotionally challenging. However, a joint replacement can improve your quality of life. Many patients find that following surgery and physical therapy, the pain relief is so effective they can resume activities they had once avoided due to knee pain and loss of mobility. Hopefully by knowing what to expect you will have an easier outcome and less stressful experience. If you are considering a total knee replacement or plan to have one, schedule an appointment at Elk Valley Physical Therapy. We would love to help you get back on your feet!