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DEC 2023
4
TABLE OF CONTENTS 06 Welcome 08 Sponsors Elk's Cookbook 12 The Mississippi Sin Quiche Mix 26 Trail Walk the Trail & Elk River Trail Foundation
16
Elk's Journal 28 The Remembering Skip Johnson
Spreading a little Christmas Joy Are you looking for a perfect stocking stuffer, gift for a friend, or eye-catching holiday earrings? Joyful Nest has lovely handmade earrings, ranging from seasonal, holiday, special events, and everyday wear.
Submission 30 Reader Big Buck Hunters
34 The Elk's Students Garden 42 Elk's Mason Jar Gift Ideas Healthy Elk 46 The Don't Freeze Up
22
FEATURE STORY From Grace Acres Farm with Love "I remember my dad saying he always wished he had a farm. Terri and I decided we didn’t want to feel the same way one day, so we sold our home on Stoffel Road and bought our 109- acre farm up Coopers Creek on Kermit Road.” –Doug Hanshew
42
Elk Reflects The old Dalton's Department Store in Clendenin still captures hearts at Christmas .
FROM THE EDITOR
HELLO
& Welcome Back! In December 2018 we published our very first Elk River Living magazine. We knew we wanted to do something positive to recognize our wonderful businesses and people on the Elk. We started with 23 sponsors who helped us fund and publish our first 28-page issue. This month we celebrate the commencement of our sixth year of bringing you our 48-page Elk River Living magazine with over 90 sponsors and, because of your support, we still offer it free, both online and in print. Taking that first leap of faith, believing in our mission statement to uplift our people, businesses and events so others could see what a wonderful community we are, and having your unwavering support has made our dream come true. We thank you for your readership, your ads, and your stories as we kick off another exciting year! Our local businesses have all started with this same premise: they saw a need and willingly stepped up with their expertise to make our community a better place to live. This month we highlight Grace Acres Farms and Joyful Nest, two small-town businesses who are making their mark on the Elk River. They join our thriving, Elk River business community who all offer quality merchandise and services--and excellent Christmas presents by the way. Dare to dream; don’t ever be afraid to step up and step out. One of the best decisions we made was talking with Advantage Valley who helps small businesses take root and grow. They are a wonderful resource if you are considering a new venture for 2024! Shop local, support our businesses and families, and know your hard-earned dollars are making a difference in someone’s life. ERL wishes all of you the very merriest of Christmases as we look forward to 2024, celebrating the Elk River!
Remember, there’s no place like home...on the Elk River. cyndi@elkriverliving.com
304.546.9243
Editor In Chief / Cyndi Tawney Creative Director / Josh Tawney Operations Director / Ken Tawney Printer / The Printing Press
Charleston, WV
Layout & Design / Katheryne E. Popp
Little Secret Design Co.
Photographer / Scott Abbott
Scott Abbott Photo
ON THE COVER Kicking off our sixth year of publication. By Josh Tawney, ERL Creative Director
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.
Our ERL photographer, Scott Abbott and guest photographers who care about our communities and help make this magazine possible: Scott Abbott, Aubrie Abbott, J. Craig Allison, Tim Cunningham, Janet Six, Jill Moles Mullins
Scott Abbott
Aubrie Abbott
J. Craig Allison
Tim Cunningham
Janet Six
Jill Moles Mullins
ELKRIVERLIVING.COM
This magazine depends on our advertising partners! Production, printing and mailing costs are offset by the participation of our valued local businesses. It is how we provide this service at no charge to you. Please take the time to review our Sponsors Page, and if you are in need of a product or service they provide, we ask that you give them a shot at earning your business. And let them know you saw their ad in Elk River Living!
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OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES
ABSOLUTE ASPHALT 304.548.7707 #WV-061163
DEAN JEFFRIES, STATE FARM 304.965.7024 85 Credes Landing, Elkview
ADVANTAGE VALLEY 304.352.1165 1045 Bridge Rd., Charleston advantagevalley.com
DOOR DECOR & MOORE 304.965.2447 4952 Elk River Rd.,Elkview
AFFILIATED FINANCIAL GROUP 304.935.2230 4950 Elk River Road, S. Elkview. ANR CONSTRUCTION 304.741.0377 | 304.546.6510 Randy Young, Jr. & Andrew Young ARMSTRONG LAW, PLLC 304.300.9663 dan@wvlegalhelp.com 624 Elk St., Gassaway BECKY’S PET PARLOR 304.951.9162 Rebecca Briles & Kaitlyn Truman BILL’S USED CARS 304.548.4727 Rt 119 Elk River Road 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
DEC 2023
CLENDENIN PHARMACY 304.548.5451 Bill Ore and Linsay Matuszkiewicz
8
CREDE TRACTOR 304.965.1666 contact William Crede
EDENS BODY WORKS, INC. 304.965.5900 102 Neville Rd, Elkview ELITE ROOFING 304.989.4792 2614 7th Ave., Charleston www.eliteroofingwv.com ELK FAMILY DENTISTRY 304.965.6661 contact Joey Adkins, DDS 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 COMBAT SPORTS 304.940.2480 514 Quick Rd., Elkview ELK RIVER HOTEL & CAFE 304.402.2121 616 Main Street, Sutton ELK VALLEY ELECTRIC Call 304.913.6001 | Text 304.913.6002 www.elkvalleyelectric.com 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
GABBY’S SEWING & MORE 304.935.2360 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 GLO’S BEAUTY BAR 304.553.6603 8 Maywood Ave., W. Clendenin Gloria Treola GOOD FAMILY PHARMACY 304.935.4812 249 Pinch Rd., Elkview GOOD LIFE APOTHECARY 304.345.8600 3212 Penn. Ave., Charleston (Crede) GREENS OF BIG CHIMNEY 304.965.3313 4509 Pennsylvania Ave, Charleston 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 JIFFY J’S INC. Portable Restrooms 800.256.8657 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
GIVE OUR SPONSORS THE OPPORTUNITY TO HAVE YOUR BUSINESS,
they care a great deal about you and the Elk River community!
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 & LACE 304.382.1791 Call or Text Rebekah Kersey, Seamstress LAUREL HILL PHOTOGRAPHY Book Today! Laurelhillphotography.com LIBERTY TAX P: 304.548.4820 | F: 304.548.4570 15 Main Street, Clendenin 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 304.344.4268 www.meadowbrookacres.net MITCH’S 24 HR TOWING 304.965.6646 contact Mitch Young MOSS TREE SERVICE LLC 304.965.8095 www.mosstreeservice.com
NANCY KUHL SEWING & ALTERATIONS 304.965.0747 Text 681.340.0409
STARCHER LAW 304.541.9120 723 Kanawha Blvd., E., Suite 200, Charleston
PADDLERS BAR & GRILL 681.230.2061 12 Maywood Ave., W., Clendenin
THE SWINE BARREL 304.885.4691 1009 Main St., Elkview
PATRIOT PRESSURE WASHING 304.840.4833 patriothousewash.com
THOMPSON LAND MGNT, LLC 743.637.0428 Thompsontree365@gmail.com
PAXTON BUSINESS SERVICES 3324 Pennsylvania Ave Ste. 203 Charleston, WV 25302
TUDOR’S BISCUIT WORLD 304.965.7769 1083 Main Street, Elkview
PEGGY WHITE, REALTOR Old Colony 304.395.0619
WALKER CREEK FARMS & CABINS 304.286.5200 230 Nebo Walker Road, Nebo
POCA VALLEY BANK 304.965.7730 | 1.844.782.2651 pocavalleybank.com
WALLY'S SUPERIOR PARTS & SERVICE 304.935.2287 5100 Elk River Rd., N., Elkview
THE PRINTING PRESS 143 Gaylor Lane, Charleston 304.744.7949
YAK HOUSE RENTALS 304.941.2229 403 Elk Ave., Clendenin Reservations: yakhouserentals.com
PUZZLED PISTOLS BOUTIQUE 4636 Penn. Ave, Ste 2, Charleston www.puzzledpistolsboutique.com ROGERS HARDWARE 304.965.1077 Bill Rogers
XSPEC POWER 304.746.1139 contact Emily Canterbury
RODNEY LOFTIS & SON 304.342.8200 & on Facebook 95 Casdorph Rd., Charleston SCOTT’S SERVICE & AUTO REPAIR 681.230.2151 311C Elk River Road, S., Clendenin SLEEP INN 304.345.5111 2772 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston
MOUNTAINEER AUCTION 304.548.4056 contact Roger Mullins
SMITH'S FURNITURE, APPLIANCE & MATTRESS 304.965.7600 Elk Shopping Plaza, Elkview
MT. PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH 304.965.7062 mpbcwv.org
SOLID ROCK CONTRACTING 304.444.4288 contact Phil Shaffer
NALU’S STYLE STUDIO LLC 304.343.2049 2777 Penn. Ave, Charleston
SPENCER’S HARDWARE 304.548.6995 8290 Elk River Rd. N, Clendenin
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AT T H E L I B R A RY
DECEMBER LIBRARY EVENTS
ELK VALLEY
CLENDENIN
All libraries will be closed Dec 22-25, Dec 31 & Jan 1
DATE
TIME
PROGRAM
AGE
Dec 2-21 Dec 5 Dec 7 Dec 7 Dec 9 Dec 12 Dec 13 Dec 16 Dec 19 Dec 21 Dec 21 Dec 30 Dec 26-30
All Day 6 PM 10:30 AM 11 AM Noon 6 PM 3 PM 1 PM 1 PM 10:30 AM 11 AM 1 PM All Day
Christmas Crafts Brick Builders Club Jump into Storytime Playgroup at the Library Holiday Open House Teens: Eat and Play STEM: Christmas Science Machine Sewing Christmas Fairy House Book Craft Jump into Storytime Playgroup at the Library Hand Sewing New Year's Eve Party in a Bag
Family/All Ages Family/All Ages Children 5 & Under Children 5 & Under Family/All Ages Teens & Tweens 6-12 Years 10 Years & Up Tweens to Seniors Children 5 & Under Children 5 & Under 6 Years & Up Family/All Ages
DATE
TIME
PROGRAM
AGE
Dec 4 Dec 5 Dec 6 Dec 6 Dec 7 Dec 12 Dec 13 Dec 13 Dec 19 Dec 27 Dec 27 Dec 28
6 PM 6 PM 10:30 AM 11 AM 2:30 PM 6 PM 10:30 AM 11 AM 2 PM 10:30 AM 11 AM 2 PM
Teen Time Adult Craft: Straw Himmeli Ornaments Jump into Storytime Stay & Play Family Fun: Paper Bag Gingerbread Houses Jolly Holiday Celebration Jump into Storytime Stay & Play Adult Craft: Straw Himmeli Ornaments Jump into Storytime Stay & Play Family Paint: Gingerbread Pal
Teens Adults Children 5 & Under Children 5 & Under Family/All Ages Family/All Ages Children 5 & Under Children 5 & Under Adults Children 5 & Under Children 5 & Under Family/All Ages
CLENDENIN BRANCH HOURS
ELK VALLEY BRANCH HOURS
MON TUES WED THURS FRI SAT SUN
MON TUES WED THURS FRI SAT SUN
Phone: (304) 548–6370
DEC 2023
(304) 343–4646 • kcpls.org
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CLOSED 10 AM–8 PM NOON–6 PM 10 AM–8 PM CLOSED 10 AM–3 PM CLOSED
Phone: (304) 965–3636
10 AM–8 PM 10 AM–8 PM 10 AM–8 PM 10 AM–8 PM 10 AM–5 PM 10 AM–5 PM CLOSED
• Reclaim Land • Right of Way Clearing • Site Prep
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SERVICE AREA West Virginia, Southern Pennsylvania, Eastern Ohio, Northeastern Kentucky, & Western Virginia
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CONTRACTING
www.kncontract.com • 5146 Elk River Rd. Elkview, WV 25071 11
THE
ELK’S COOKBOOK MISSISSIPPI SIN QUICHE
G
abi Strickland Walker of Walker Mt. Eats on Facebook, shared a perfect recipe for Mississippi Sin Quiche for December. She said this dish is great to serve for brunch while guests are visiting for the holidays. She added that it is also delicious with leftover Christmas ham! “It’s a play on the Mississippi Sin dip flavors and it makes a perfect quiche. Fluffy eggs, plenty of cheese, salty ham, and the green onion, all in a butter pie crust! Next time I’ll need to double the recipe and make two!”
MISSISSIPPI SIN QUICHE
DEC 2023
From the Kitchen of Gabi Strickland Walker
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INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
•
1 cup diced ham
STEP 1 Preheat oven to 350º F. Heat ham in a skillet for 3 to 5 min to
•
2 oz cream cheese
•
½ C shredded cheddar cheese (I used 3/4)
•
2 green onions - chopped
•
½ t hot sauce
•
1 t Worcestershire sauce
•
¼ C sour cream
•
1 C heavy cream
•
3 eggs
•
1 (9-inch) deep dish pie crust
Preheat oven to 350• | Bake 60 Min
remove moisture and slightly crisp/brown. Remove from heat.
STEP 2 Combine ham, cream cheese, hot sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Put ham mixture on bottom of the pie crust. Top with cheddar cheese and green onion.
STEP 3 Whisk together eggs, sour cream and heavy cream. Pour over the ham mixture.
STEP 4 Bake for 60 minutes or until set and golden brown. Let rest 5 minutes before cutting and serving.
*Gabi's Notes: This recipe is easily doubled for two quiches; You can assemble quiche in advance and freeze unbaked for later; To bake quiche after freezing, thaw completely and bake as directed above; You can freeze a baked quiche. To reheat quiche after freezing, thaw and cover with aluminum foil. Reheat at 350º F for 30 to 40 minutes.
(304)965–7600 • Elk Shopping Plaza, Elkview, WV
ELKRIVERLIVING.COM
Mon–Fri: 10am–6pm • Sat: 9am–3pm • New Furniture Selections!
13
23 YEARS IN BUSINESS
Mike Haynes, Manager
SOLIDROCK
CONTRACTING Large assortment of burgers, hand cut fries, hand-dipped corn dogs, the best wings on the River and more! Full service bar with great beer selections. Pool tables, Large TV's for sports viewing, Karaoke and Live Music! Family friendly dining hours.
• General Excavation • Land Clearing • Dump Truck Service • Retaining Walls • Underground Utilities • Demolition WV051264
Phil Shaffer
DEC 2023
304.444.4288
14
12 MAYWOOD AVENUE W, CLENDENIN, WV 25045 681.230.2061 @paddlersbarandgrill
Tim Shaffer
304.382.7606
Solid Rock Contracting Email: solidrockcontractor@hotmail.com
We hope you have
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year
Jeff, Gina & Haley
304-965-2447
STORE HOURS
Mon - Fri: 10am - 5pm Sat: 9am - 3pm
4952 Elk River Road S., Elkview, WV 25071
NEW ONLINE MENU AT GIOVANNISPIZZAPOWER.COM
PS TUNE-UUST A & EXH
TIRES & BRAKES
311C ELK RIVER RD, S. CLENDENIN, WV 25045
235 ELK RIVER ROAD SOUTH CLENDENIN, WV
548.7002
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PIZZA POWER
15
SPREADING A LITTLE CHRISTMAS JOY
L-R Sisters Tammy Samples and Penny Smith with Stephanie Salisbury.
through a pasta machine, and from there she says the possibilities are basically endless. “I love it because I can create anything to match any outfit or occasion. I create assorted sizes, including studs, which work well for children, also.”
A
re you looking for a perfect stocking stuffer, gift for a friend, or eye-catching holiday earrings? Joyful Nest has lovely handmade earrings, ranging from seasonal, holiday, special events, and everyday wear.
DEC 2023
Stephanie Salisbury of Clendenin is the owner of Joyful Nest. She said, “During COVID my husband purchased me a pair of clay earrings and I fell in love with them. I researched, watched you-tube videos, and learned how to create them myself! I released my first pair in 2021!
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Her earrings are handmade from polymer clay. Stephanie said, “When you think of clay, it sounds heavy, but these are incredibly light. Most of my earrings weigh less than a nickel!” She starts with a block of clay, runs it
Right now you can find a lovely display of her holiday earrings at Elk River Boutique located at 3 Main Street, Clendenin. She also has mom-to-be and mom-andnewborn earrings which are a very special gift for baby showers. Recently, she also created earrings featuring Meeko, the new HHHS mascot. She said, “When I posted these on my Facebook, it reached more people than any of my other posts! They have been extremely popular.” Her sisters, Tammy Samples and Penny Smith, travel with her when she attends pop-up markets or vendor events. She said, “They not only help me set up and take down my exhibit, they also encourage me and support me which is invaluable.” Joyful Nest is on Facebook and Stephanie posts all of her selections there and you can contact her via Messenger. She can ship orders or meet you in Clendenin for pickup. You can also visit Elk River Boutique anytime and purchase her earrings there. Stop in and grab your favorites before they are gone! Also, watch for her new Valentine earrings in February!
ELKRIVERLIVING.COM
ELK RIVER LIVING
17
Rental Cabins Fishing Ponds Petting Zoo Barn Hiking & Biking
Paddleboats Private Hot Tubs Hammocks Firepits & Grills
Pets Welcome
Complimentary doggie beds & treats upon request!
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WE OFFER
DEC 2023
FACEBOOK & INSTAGRAM
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304.965.3313
HEATERS, WOOD PELLETS, PROPANE & KEROSENE DEER BLOCKS & FEED CORN CANNING, LAWN & GARDEN SUPPLIES PET & LIVESTOCK FEED & SUPPLIES PAINT, ELECTRICAL & PLUMBING SUPPLIES
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THE PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT!
12 ISSUES FOR $36! ELKRIVERLIVING.COM
CLICK SUBSCRIBE
304.549.8778 • www.elkriverboutique.com 14 Main Street, Clendenin, WV 25045
Beck y’s Pet Parlor
Rebecca L. Briles & Kaitlyn M. Truman
DEC 2023
PROFESSIONAL DOG GROOMERS
20
304 951 9162 166 North Pinch Road Elkview, WV 25071
Debbie Hamm Pharmacy Tech
Jennifer Dye Pharmacist
Phone (304) 345–8600 | Fax (304) 345–8602 goodlifeapothecary@aol.com 3212 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston, WV 25302
Elk Valley Electric Craig White, Owner Phone: 304.913.6001 | Text: 304.923.6002 Website: www.elkvalleyelectric.com Email: Craig@elkvalleyelectric.com
ROAD SERVICE KEY LOCK-OUT SERVICING WEST VIRGINIA
Nalu’s Style Studio LLC HAIR STYLISTS • BARBER • NAIL TECH • AESTHETIC CONSULTANT
Contact us @ 304.343.2049 2777 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston, WV 25302 Find us on Facebook @Nalu’s Style Studio LLC
MITCH YOUNG OWNER
MITCH’S 24 HR TOWING 100 FRAME ROAD ELKVIEW, WV 25071
304.965.6646
CREDE TRACTOR SALES & SERVICE 4731 PENNSYLVANIA AVE., (BIG CHIMNEY) CHARLESTON, WV 25302
WILLIAM CREDE
CREDETRACTORPOWER.COM
ELKRIVERLIVING.COM
304-965-1666
21
FROM GRACE ACRES FARM WITH LOVE
DEC 2023
“DEAR SANTA, ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS TO FILL MY FREEZER WITH BEEF FROM GRACE ACRES FARM!”
22
I
f you would like to have delicious, fresh beef, ERL recommends Grace Acres Farm, owned by Doug and Terri Hanshew, located at 340 Kermit Lane (off of Coopers Creek) in Charleston, WV.
Doug said, “It’s time to start our list with a $300 deposit for freezer beef. Our feeder beefs are looking great and I am hoping that they will be ready in January 2024.” Grace Acres Farm sells their beef as a half or whole at $4.50 per pound hanging weight plus the butcher fee. According to Doug, last year a half of a beef was approximately 1200-1500 lbs. “Counting the hanging weight and butcher fees, it came out to about $6.98 a pound.” When you compare that with today’s meat prices
at the grocery store, Grace Acres Farm is a great deal for quality meat. Grace Acres Farm also has ground beef for sale at the farm and at Doug’s business, Almost Heaven Auto Repair located at 12 Commercial Drive, Charleston, WV 25311. Doug has a freezer at Almost Heaven where he keeps fresh-ground Angus beef in 1 lb. packages or in packages of 3 quarter-pound patties for quick and easy pickup anytime. Also, don’t forget to add a jar of their delicious, homemade apple butter, slowly cooked in old copper kettles. He has pints for $10 and half-pints for $5. Doug and Terri take pride in giving back to their community. This fall at several of the HHHS Football games, they set up a tailgate during pregame and gave away 72 hamburgers, 42 bags of chips and 48 bottles of water. While everyone was getting their free food, they also took donations for the HHHS High Impact Show Choir and were able to give them $400.
ELKRIVERLIVING.COM
Grace Acres Farm is proud to offer quality beef raised on their farm. Their feeder beefs are grain- and hay-fed, and range from 18 months and younger, with most around 14 months old. Doug explained, “Half a beef is perfect for a family. Appalachian Abbattior, a USDA-inspected meat processor and proud partner of Buzz Foods, will cut it to your specifications. It will include a variety of hamburger, tenderloin, ribs, steaks, and roasts, all separated and wrapped and ready to go in your freezer.”
23
DEC 2023
October was a busy month with Hoover tailgating and apple butter making at the farm. Grace Acres Farm was also set up at the farmers market at Coonskin Drive Armory selling some of their beef, apple butter, apple sauce, peach jam and salsa. Sometimes they will announce a sale on Facebook selling 1 lb. packages of hamburger at a reduced price to make more freezer space. You never know where they will turn up with their great products.
24
Doug said they have been raising cattle for about 6 ½ years and have been making apple butter for 2 years. He said, “I remember my dad saying he always wished he had a farm. Terri and I decided we didn’t want to feel the same way one day, so we sold our home on Stoffel Road and bought our 109- acre farm up Coopers Creek on Kermit Road.” He said they have been completely gutting and remodeling the old farm house. This year they added a canning room above the cellar house. New plans hopefully include a high tunnel this winter so that they can raise more vegetables next year and expand their product line.
Grace Acres Farm also sells fresh eggs starting in the spring. “Eggs are more of a spring and summer product,” said Doug. “We have 20 chickens and when the daylight is longer in the spring, the chickens start to lay more eggs. Watch on our Facebook/Grace Acres Farm for their availability.” Now is the time to order beef for you and your loved ones. Who wanted socks for Christmas anyway! Give a gift that you know your family needs and can use for months to come. For more information visit them at graceacresfarmwv.com, Facebook/Grace Acres Farm, or call them 304.539.5228.
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THE ELK RIVER TRAIL FOUNDATION RECEIVES $1,365,000 GRANT FROM APPALACHIAN REGIONAL COMMISSION’S POWER INITIATIVE
News Release from Elk River Trail Foundation and Advantage Valley
Harnessing the Economic Power of the Elk River Trails will allow for business and tourism infrastructure expansion and job creation along the Elk River for coalimpacted communities in Braxton, Clay, and Kanawha Counties in West Virginia.
HIT THE TRAIL ON TUESDAYS AT 4 PM
DEC 2023
The Elk River Walking Club wishes everyone a very merry Christmas! They meet every Tuesday at 4 PM (new time due to daylight savings time) at the north end of the Clendenin Trail Head. Be active and enjoy the camaraderie every week. 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! Remember to dress appropriately for the weather.
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The Elk River Trail Foundation has been awarded $1,365,000 in grant funds by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) for the Harnessing the Economic Power of the Elk River Trails Project, designed to kickstart the implementation of the Elk River Trails plan to intentionally grow business and downtown development alongside the expansion of the Elk River Rail and Water Trails. Specifically, grant funds will be used to better connect the trail systems to the four trail towns of Clendenin, Clay, Sutton, and Gassaway by constructing trailheads, water access points, and pedestrian access. In addition, the grant will support the beautification of the communities by establishing a downtown facade program. A significant effort will also be made to promote outdoor recreation and tourism business development through Advantage Valley’s FASTER WV program which is designed to provide coaching, technical assistance and financing to new and expanding small businesses. The grant will also provide funding for a comprehensive marketing program to promote the four communities and the trail systems. This project addresses priorities outlined in a 2022 ARCfunded Elk River Trail Town Plan that identified the opportunities for business and tourism infrastructure expansion and job creation along the Elk River. The project is expected to create over 40 businesses and leverage significant private investment along the trails and within the communities. This award is part of a recently announced nearly $54 million package supporting 64 projects in 217 coalimpacted counties through ARC’s POWER (Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization) Initiative, which directs federal resources to economic diversification projects in Appalachian
communities affected by job losses in coal mining, coal power plant operations, and coal-related supply chain industries. This is the largest single POWER awards package to date since the initiative launched in 2015.
towns,” says Ken Tawney, President of the Elk River Trails Foundation. “I also want to thank our partners, including Advantage Valley, Braxton County Commission, Braxton County Development Authority, and 25045 – A
“From workforce training and agriculture, to downtown development and broadband expansion, the projects receiving grants in this round of POWER funding show that the future of Appalachia’s coal-impacted communities is economically diverse and innovative,” said ARC Federal Co-Chair Gayle Manchin. “Projects like these are resulting in life-changing transformations, which in turn, not only provides new economic opportunities, but brings a renewed sense of hope and purpose across our Appalachian Region.”
New Clendenin, Inc. We thank ARC for this funding, as well as the Benedum Foundation who also assisted with funding the original trail town study. Finally, I want to recognize the efforts of our board, our trail town committee, and the volunteers who have spent time contributing to this project and who will continue to do so as we move into the implementation stage of this project.”
expand our FASTER WV program to assist new and expanding small businesses with startups and expansions so that we can meet the demand that is projected by increased tourism in these communities,” said Ellis. “I am very excited that this grant enables the Foundation to support and promote economic growth associated with the Elk River Rail and Water Trails. We are already seeing the development of outdoor recreation and tourism-related businesses along the trails, and this grant will help our communities become attractive trail
Advantage Valley, Inc. is a regional economic development organization with a mission to create economic opportunity in the Charleston-Huntington Metro Areas by attracting investment and building collaboration among community stakeholders. CONTACTS: Marjorie Cooke, Advantage Valley Director of Marketing & Communication (304) 541-9657; Terrell Ellis, Advantage Valley President and CEO (304) 546-7323; Ken Tawney, President of Elk River Trail Foundation, Inc. (304) 553-5203.
ELKRIVERLIVING.COM
“We are excited to partner with the Foundation on this initiative. The outdoor recreation economy is growing significantly in West Virginia and this trail system is no different,” said Terrell Ellis, President & CEO of Advantage Valley. “When fully constructed, we project visitations to the Elk River Trails to approach 150,000 annually. Our analysis shows that these visitors will spend an average of $100 per day. Funding from this grant will allow us to
The Elk River Trail Foundation preserves, protects, and enhances the Elk River Trails for public recreation, community health and well-being, conservation, ecology, education, economic development, and cultural enrichment. The Elk River Trail System runs through portions of Kanawha, Clay, and Braxton Counties. Paralleling the Elk River, the Elk River Trail System provides recreation opportunities for anglers, boaters, cyclists, hikers, and equestrians living in or visiting the center of the state.
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THE
ELK’S JOURNAL REMEMBERING SKIP JOHNSON
Local author Skip Johnson passed away a few years ago, but he was greatly admired by many. He lived along the Birch River until shortly before his death in 2011. Bill Clements of WV Book Company said, “Skip wrote a weekly column on hunting and fishing in the Charleston Gazette for years. He retired in 1992 as their outdoor columnist. He wrote a book about the Elk River titled Upper
River: Elk’s Origins and Beyond that explores the renowned trout fishing on the head of the Elk. He published two books that were a collection of his articles for the Gazette (The Braxton Connection and Woods and Waters), and another book on the Birch River (River on the Rocks:The Birch River Story). He was writing a book on mountain lions when he passed away. We had an expert on
the subject from Morgantown finish this last book which is titled WV Mountain Lions.” To order your copy of one of Skip’s books, visit https://wvbookco.com and search for Skip Johnson. You can also follow them on Facebook/West Virginia Book Company or contact them at 304.342.1848, 1125 Central Avenue, Charleston, WV 25302.
Excerpt from Upper River: Elk’s Origins and Beyond The high country that embraces the start of Elk River hadn’t quite relinquished its hold on the winter of 2001-2002 when I made my first trip there in pursuit of inspiration for this book. It was May, but Kennison Mountain and Black Mountain, which I crossed on the way to the Elk drainage, were dusted with snow from the previous night. Appalachian spring had truly arrived a month and a half later when I met Ed Maguire and his yellow lab, Abby, at the Cranberry Visitor Center, a delightful setting of the Highland Scenic Highway, to view the Crooked Fork of Elk Basin. It was there that I fully decided to spend three years of my life writing Upper River.
Excerpt from River on the Rocks: The Birch River Story During the two years I worked on this book, I gained a new appreciation for the beauty of central West Virginia and for its people. I took the advice of history writer Stephen Ambrose, who said: “Never write about a battle until after you’ve visited the battlefield.” With that in mind, I walked much of Birch River, knocked on many doors, and was barked at by most of the dogs in three counties. More than ninety nine percent of the people I met were friendly, and eager to help, and I am grateful to them. In that sense, this book is a community product… In the end, it all came down to the river, and fittingly it got in the last word. It had been very benign during most of the dry May of 2001, but at the moment I was completing this project, heavy thunderstorms erupted and overnight Birch became a raging torrent. Paul Roche, who lives at the Falls, below Herald, had not seen it that high. He woke up the next morning, looked out toward the huge rock that fills his picture window, and had only one word to say: “Wow!”
Excerpt from The Long-Tailed Cat: West Virginia Mountain Lions
DEC 2023
I’ve had many cats over the years, all of the Felis cactus, or domestic variety, that have condescended to live at my home. Through these associations, I have come to like and admire cats, and I think I know in small ways, therefore, what they would be like if they were fifteen times bigger. I refer, of course, to their feline cousins that once roamed virtually all over the New World--the panther, cougar, puma, catamount, painter, or whatever we may want to call the mountain lion, the subject of this book.
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As to mountain lions--they have gained ground in the western United States with their return to the Black Hills of South Dakota, the Badlands of North Dakota, and the Pine Ridge Bluffs of Nebraska. In the process, young male cougars from the Black Hills, the sacred ground of the Sioux Indians for over 200 years, have set records for their wanderings in search of new territory. Their remarkable long-distance travel is discussed in this book.
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OUR ELK RIVER HUNTERS SHARED THEIR PHOTOS FOR THIS MONTH’S READER’S SUBMISSION
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KERMIT TYREE
CHRISTMAS LIGHT SHOW NOV. 24 – JAN. 1
One of our favorite activities is to drive through the enchanting light show at Kermit Tyree’s farm. Their light show begins the day after Thanksgiving and runs through New Year’s Day. Thousands of visitors come each year to drive through their holiday wonderland, which includes an array of Christmas blow-up displays, animated decorations, and nativity pieces. The admission is FREE. “Kermit and Joann Tyree said, “We love sharing the joy of Christmas with our community. We love people and seeing their faces when they view the lights is just the best feeling ever.”
COONSKIN PARK
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS NOV. 24 – DEC. 23
Don’t forget to drive through Coonskin Park and enjoy their Festival of Lights this holiday season. Hours of Operation are 5:30 PM to 9 PM each evening. Admission is FREE and donations are welcome. The Festival of Lights begins the day after Thanksgiving and concludes on December 23rd.
KANAWHA VALLEY RAIL ASSOCIATION
HOLIDAY TRAIN EXHIBIT THROUGH DEC. 23
The Kanawha Valley Railroad Association Museum will be open at the end of Coonskin Park during the Coonskin Festival of Lights. Make plans to see the lights and stop in to see the awesome train exhibits.
FRIDAYS: 6-9 PM | DEC. 1, 8, 15 & 22 SATURDAYS 3-9 PM | DEC. 2, 9, 16, & 23 SUNDAYS 1-6 PM | DEC. 3, 10, & 17
CHRISTMAS AT COONSKIN
DEC 2023
DEC. 1
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Bring the family and the camera and join in the fun at Christmas at Coonskin on Friday evening, December 1, 2023. This year’s event will be held at the Coonskin Clubhouse featuring Santa, hot chocolate, candy canes, vendors, and a train ride through the Festival of Lights. The event is from 5 to 9 PM.
TOWN OF CLENDENIN
CHRISTMAS ON MAIN DEC. 2
The Town of Clendenin is inviting everyone to join them for a special night of celebration and giving on Saturday, December 2. The festivities begin at 6 PM with a lighted Christmas parade starting at the Poca Valley Bank parking lot. The parade is open to all, so decorate your jeep, 4-wheeler, side by side, bicycle, stroller, wagon or your favorite vehicle and join in on the fun. Everyone in the parade is asked to donate a new, unwrapped toy for the Town’s Toy Drive. After the parade the annual Christmas tree lighting will be held at 7 PM at the end of Main Street. There will be hot cocoa, Christmas caroling, and plenty of activities for the whole family.
CLENDENIN & ELKVIEW BRANCH LIBRARIES
CHRISTMAS CELEBRATIONS DEC. 9 & DEC. 12
Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus will be at the Clendenin Branch Library on Saturday, December 9, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM. It’s a perfect time to have the kids’ holiday photos taken, so make plans now to bring the family and enjoy the food and activities. The Elkview Middle School Majorettes will be performing at the Elk Valley Branch Library Jolly Holiday Celebration on Tuesday, December 12, from 6:00 to 7:30 PM. There will be cookies and punch plus holiday crafts for the kids to make and take home.
CHRISTMAS AT THE ELK THEATER IN SUTTON DEC. 9
Bring the family and plan to visit The Elk Theatre located at 192 Main Street in Sutton on Saturday, December 9. All day they will be offering $3.00 classic Christmas movies plus free photos with a special guest! Watch their Facebook/The Elk Theatre to find out who their special holiday guest will be as well as other exciting announcements. For more information, call (304)765.2519 or visit elktheatre.com.
PINCH CHRISTMAS PARADE DEC. 16
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The annual Bill Allen Memorial Pinch Christmas Parade is scheduled for Saturday, December 16 at 7 PM. Everyone is welcome to participate or just come join the fun. Line-up begins at 5:30 PM at the Pinch Elementary and New Beginnings Church parking lots. For additional information, contact Teri Beasley at 304.289.9992. Special Guest will be Santa Claus; therefore, the only rule is: NO additional Santas please. There will be lots of Christmas spirit and festivities, so make plans now to bring the family, walk or drive in the parade if you want, and enjoy the small-town Christmas spirit of Pinch. It is rumored that the Pinch Crawdads may also make an appearance!
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THE
ELK’S STUDENTS
HOOVER MAKES A GRAND SHOWING IN STATE COMPETITION Congratulations to all of the great athletes who competed this fall as well as those who gave it their all in the playoffs and state tournaments.
FOOTBALL The Hoover gridiron again headed to the WVSSAC AA Playoffs this year for their fourth consecutive playoff appearance with Coach Joey Fields! They finished their season with a big 70-20 win over the Logan Wildcats, going into the playoffs ranked 9th. They won their first playoff game with a 28-14 win over East Fairmont. ERL wishes them the best of luck at game two against North Marion! Let’s go Huskies! Photo by Scott Abbott Photo
CHEERLEADING
DEC 2023
The Husky Cheerleaders finished Runner-Up in the AA Region 3 competition! They now advance again to the WV State Cheer Competition on December 9th in Huntington at the Marshall University Cam Henderson Center.
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Also, the HHHS Cheer Team qualified for the 2024 National High School Cheerleading Championship and are raising money to help fund their trip. The Disney Nationals will be held February 9-12, 2024. They need our help! Watch for one of their fundraisers or contact Jamie Hays, Carly Fragale, or any HHHS cheerleader to make a donation. Coach Hays said, “Anything helps and it is much appreciated as we continue to raise money to get these girls to Nationals and States!”
VOLLEYBALL The Hoover volleyball team was the Region 3 Runner-up and headed to the States again for their fourth consecutive year! They continued on to win against Wayne High School in the quarterfinals of the State tournament on November 8. A great crowd of Husky fans cheered them on at the Charleston Coliseum & Convention Center, however, after a strong battle, they lost to Oak Glen in the semifinals. Ashton Henrich was named AA All Tournament. Congrats to Coach King and this remarkable team. Photo by Aubrie Abbott Photography
CROSS COUNTRY The Hoover cross country team was the Region 3 Runner-Up with Jenna Brown placing seventh overall! Coach Luke Teel said, “All of them set a goal, worked hard and made it happen. I’m especially proud of Jenna for finishing seventh in the state. It’s been another great season for the Huskies and our future is bright for running on the River.”
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during WWII and one of the most decorated women in the US military. But ERL would like to introduce a young man, Malachi DeJohn, who made this Veterans Day extra special for the veterans at his church. Malachi, age 11, started piecing together quilt pieces at the beginning of this year with help from his grandmother, Mary Ropp. His mother, Courtney DeJohn, said, “His grandmother has quilted for years and Malachi caught on really fast and he does a really good job at it. It was his idea to make quilts for the veterans.” They did some research and decided to make 50 quilts to present at church this Veterans Day.
DEC 2023
A DAY OF HONOR
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The Elk River community is always proud to honor its veterans. Our local libraries had special activities in November. The Elk Valley Public Library featured an honorary display of medals from Ret. Theresa Curry, their library assistant, who proudly served in the WV Air National Guard. The Clendenin Branch Library and the Ravenswood Board of Parks hosted a program at the Clendenin Community Center portraying Colonel Ruby Bradley, a US Army Nurse Corp officer, a prisoner of war
After piecing them together, they gave all of the quilts to local quilter Pam McClung, who then completed the final quilting on them. Malachi paid Pam using his own money that he earned from mowing grass this summer. Even though Pam did not want him to pay her, Malachi insisted that this was something he wanted to pay for himself. Courtney said, “We have a proud family of veterans; his grandfather Harry (Navy), his dad Ryan (Air Force) and I (Air Force) have all served in the military.” On November 12, Malachi presented his handmade quilts to 50 veterans at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church. Carmen Lynch shared the photo of the quilt that he presented to her grandson who served in the Air Force. She added, “He is an amazing young boy with a big heart.”
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THE
ELK REFLECTS DALTON’S DEPARTMENT STORE STILL CAPTURES HEARTS AT CHRISTMAS
Dalton’s at Christmas in the early 1960’s | Photo by Phil McAlister, 94, who passed away September 14, 2020.
DEC 2023
Clyde and Helen Dalton, owners of Dalton’s Department Store in Clendenin, always delighted the Town with their gorgeous lights and window displays. Even though the building has been home to several businesses since that time, their windows still dazzle during the holidays.
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When Momma Payne’s Diner was located in the building, there was always a Santa to greet the children each year at their special Christmas breakfast event. Last year the Dalton’s building was prominently featured during the Town’s Christmas parade. This year, Elk River Boutique, owned by Lisa Fox, is now located in the building. Lisa has all of the windows alive with Christmas.
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Dr. Stacy Bowen, Dr. Gary Bowen II & Family Now Accepting New Patients of All Ages
Two Locations 139 7TH AVE., SO. CHAS., WV 25303
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CHRISTMAS GIFTS - IN A JAR!
C
hristmas is almost here! Let’s get those homemade jar-gifts ready! Here are some easy gift ideas using canning jars. These homemade gifts are great ideas for teachers, co-workers, neighbors and friends.
Brownie Mix Recipe Jar Use a large-mouth quart jar - completely dry. Layer the ingredients in order as listed below into a jar. Pack each layer in place before adding the next ingredient (you can use your own recipe for this if you prefer.) – 2 1/4 cup sugar – 2/3 cup cocoa (clean inside jar with paper towel after this layer) – 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts – 1 1/4 cup all purpose flour – 1 tsp baking powder – 1 tsp salt
Brownies • 1 jar of Brownie mix • 3/4 cup butter or margarine • 4 eggs, slightly beaten
DEC 2023
Preheat oven to 350•. In a large bowl, cream the butter and eggs. Add the brownie mix and stir until mixture is well blended. Spread batter into a 9x12 inch pan. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes.
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Once the jar is filled, attach the lid and ring, next cut a 9-inch piece of fabric (pinking shears give a pretty edge). Lay the fabric on top of the lid/ring. Use a rubber band to hold it in place. Add ribbon, bow, and attach the recipe card with a ribbon. Write or print the recipe on a recipe card. Punch a hole in the upper corner of the card to thread a ribbon through and attach to the Brownie Mix Recipe Jar.
If you're not crafty but still like these ideas, you can buy many of these already assembled in stores. Whether you make it or purchase it from someone who made it, who doesn’t love a special gifted treat!
Pin Cushion Jar Use any size of jar – Cut a fabric circle ¾-inch larger than the lid – Place a ball of batting on top of the lid and cover with the fabric circle – Wrap tightly and hot glue the material to the bottom of the lid – Fill the jar with thread, pins, needles, etc. – Put the covered lid on top and add the ring – Add stick pins in cushion
Light Collection Jar A half-gallon jar works best for this: – Fill the jar with items that you or your children have collected (sea shells, buttons, rocks, etc.) – Add a light and globe kit The light kit in the picture was bought at Lehman’s in Kidron Ohio; however, you can purchase one at your local hardware store or order online.
Candy or Treat Jar – Fill jars with candy, trail mix, Chex Mix, etc. – Put on the lid and ring – Cut a fabric circle ¾-inch larger than the lid – Place the fabric over the lid/ring and tie with a ribbon to hold it in place.
Potpourri Light Jar I used a 1/2 gallon blue jar for this one, but you can use a quart jar also. – Place some of your favorite potpourri in the bottom of the jar.
– Tape the end of the light cord to the back of the jar. – Add a lace doily on top to serve as the lid. (I ran a ribbon through the lace and tied it on top of the jar) As the lights warm up, the potpourri scent will fill the room and smell so good.
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– Gently work a set of small, clear Christmas lights into the jar as you add more potpourri, filling to the top.
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Doing Vehicle Title Transfers, New Tags and/or Transfer Tags
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THE
HEALTHY ELK DON’T FREEZE! STRETCH!
Submitted by Stephanie Clark, athletic trainer at Elk Valley Physical Therapy and Herbert Hoover High School. She graduated in 2014 with a master's degree in Athletic Training from West Virginia Wesleyan College. In 2017, Stephanie was awarded West Virginia Athletic Trainer of the Year by the West Virginia Athletic Trainers' Association.
Hamstring Stretch
Doorway Stretch
December 11th is National Stretching Day but you can participate every day to increase flexibility and help all of your joints stay ready to get you through the busy holiday season! Due to sedentary lifestyles, growing older or overstressed muscles, people develop excessive resting muscle tone causing everyday movement to be difficult, cumbersome, or painful. Our independence becomes compromised, partially due to a greater inability to move. Daily stretching exercises or getting regularly stretched by a certified practitioner will keep joints moving efficiently as we age. This will keep our body healthy. A few additional key benefits to stretching:
Two simple stretches that you can try at home are for the hamstrings and arms. For the hamstring stretch, sit on a bed or other flat surface with your legs straight out in front of you and reach for your toes by leaning forward. To stretch your arms, find an open doorway and put your hands on the frame at the same height as your head. Step forward with one foot and hold the stretch. Step further forward if you need more of a stretch. Don’t lean into the frame, putting more weight on your arms.
– Relieves stiffness and soreness in your joints.
DEC 2023
– Increases and maintains your active range of motion, circulation, and blood flow.
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– Supports injury prevention, enhances athletic skills and improves your ability to do daily activities. – Helps with stress reduction, calming the mind and decreasing tension headaches. – It makes you feel lighter and younger.
Keep stretches gentle and slow. Don’t bounce. Breathe through your stretches. If you feel pain, you’ve stretched too far. “No pain, no gain” isn’t beneficial when you are stretching. Stretch until you feel a slight pull. Then hold the stretch for about 30 seconds. Repeat the stretch on both sides 2 to 3 times. Aim to stretch 2 to 3 days a week. If you have health conditions, injuries, or even if you are an experienced athlete trying to improve your performance, always talk to a healthcare professional or physical therapist about which stretches are right for you before starting a regular stretching or exercise program.
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