Elk River Living | Volume 06 | Issue 05

Glamping Out!

What happens when you combine camping out with a dash of glamorous? You find yourself in a new style of camping, complete with comfy amenities and resortstyle services.

2024 Total Solar Eclipse in Neil Armstrong’s Hometown p. 20

"...sharing that moment with thousands of others who came together to witness the event was extraordinary."

--Lauren Campbell p. 16

FEATURE STORY

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• Home Improvements

• College Costs

• Debt Consolidation

• Emergency Expenses

• Wedding Expenses

• Business Expenses

With great rates, friendly service, and decisions that are made locally, we can help your dreams become reality.

Hello & Welcome Back!

There is something so unique about spring. As I’m writing this, I am watching our lilac bush sway gently in the wind, full of gorgeous blooms that smell heavenly. Ken mowed the lawn and it looks so green and nice. Our apple trees and early bushes are blooming. We spent the day pulling out some weeds and cleaning up the patio. It feels so good to be able to be outside working and watch everything come to life.

I was remembering how I would go next door with two freezie-pops and sit on the bench under the pink flowering dogwood tree with my neighbor Jan as soon as the weather started warming up. It was our time to visit and discuss everything that was going on in the world--freezie pops are a great snack when you are problem solving--at least Jan and I thought so. She’s not here nearby this spring for me to bop over and visit with and I miss our talks. I miss her words of wisdom. I just miss her.

You never know when your life is going to change. Something you take for granted every day, just normal events with family and friends, can reshape themselves in an instance. This year I am reminded that even though the seasons are recycling as normal and spring has arrived, it is different for me.

All of us experience changes in our lives, whether it is our kids or grandkids graduating, getting married, the arrival of new babies, or losing someone we love, just to name a few. What remains in our hearts, however, are treasured memories. They are always here to wrap their arms around us and offer comfort.

Spring is an awakening of season and soul. It’s a reminder to soak up each moment with those we love. Take time for the little things; in the end, it’s what you miss the most.

Hugs and love (and freezie pops) to you all,

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

cyndi@elkriverliving.com

304.546.9243

Editor In Chief / Ken Tawney

Cyndi Tawney

Operations Director / Josh Tawney Creative Director / Printer / The Printing Press Charleston, WV

Layout & Design / Katheryne E. Popp

Little Secret Design Co.

Photographer / Scott Abbott

Scott Abbott Photo

ON THE COVER

Glamping domes at the GlampOut Resort in Sutton, WV.

Elk River Living is published monthly by CJT Publishing, LLC, Elkview, West Virginia 25071. All rights are reserved. All contents are copyrighted by CJT Publishing, LLC; reproduction in whole or part without written permission from CJT Publishing, LLC is epxressly forbidden and punishable by law. Elk River Living is not responsible for unsolicited materials. All opinions expressed within Elk River Living belong to the feature’s author and are not necessarily the opinions of the publishers of CJT Publishing, LLC employees. Elk River Living and CJT Publishing, LLC reserve the right to refuse any idea, material or subject matter. Throughout this issue, trademarked names are used. Rather than denoting a trademark symbol in every occurrence of a trademarked name, Elk River Living uses the names in an editorial fashion, with no infringement. All trademarked names are still fully protected, and anyone who uses them without permission will be prosecuted.

This magazine depends on our advertising partners! Production, printing and mailing costs are offset by the participation of our valued local businesses. It is how we provide this service at no charge to you. Please take the time to review our Sponsors Page, and if you are in need of a product or service they provide, we ask that you give them a shot at earning your business. And let them know you saw their ad in Elk River Living!

Our 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

Photo by Aaron Sligar

Aubrie Abbott

Tim Cunningham

Scott Abbott

Janet Six Jill Moles Mullins

J. Craig Allison

ABSOLUTE ASPHALT

304.548.7707

#WV-061163

ADVANTAGE VALLEY

304.352.1165

1045 Bridge Rd., Charleston advantagevalley.com

AFFILIATED FINANCIAL GROUP

304.935.2230

4950 Elk River Road, S. Elkview

AIS AFFILIATED INSURANCE SOLUTIONS

304.881.7818

4950 Elk River Rd., S., Ste. C, 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 Ave., Charleston (Mink Shoals Exit 1)

BRANNON'S AUTO

304.935.2335

4039 Pennsylvania Ave. Chas

CANTRELL’S FLORIST

304.548.7700

7484 Elk River Rd, Clendenin

CENTRAL WV AGING SERVICES

304.965.9081

Local Charleston Office

OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES

CHAMBERS REPAIR & TOWING

24-Hour Towing and Lockout

304.965.5634

648 Shady Lane, Elkview

CLENDENIN MEMORIAL PARK

304.768.6331 or 304.541.3101

236 North Point Drive, Clendenin

CLENDENIN PHARMACY

304.548.5451

Bill Ore & Linsay Matuszkiewicz

CREDE TRACTOR

304.965.1666

contact William Crede

DEAN JEFFRIES, STATE FARM

304.965.7024

85 Credes Landing, Elkview

DOOR DECOR & MOORE

304.965.2447

4952 Elk River Rd.,Elkview

EDENS BODY WORKS, INC.

304.965.5900

102 Neville Rd, Elkview

ELK HILLS MEMORIAL PARK

304.965.5721

4705 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston (Big Chimney)

ELK FAMILY DENTISTRY

304.965.6661

contact Joey Adkins, DDS

ELK RIVER AUTOMOTIVE

304.965.7501

contact Gary W. Pauley II

ELK RIVER BAKING COMPANY

304.548.7474

12 Main St., Clendenin

ELK RIVER BOUTIQUE

304.549.8778

14 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 GET A WAY

304.993.0006

16544 N. Elk River Rd., Clendenin (Queen Shoals)

ELK RIVER HOTEL & CAFE

304.402.2121

616 Main Street, Sutton

ELK RIVER PADDLE & YAK

304.314.3880

Kayak Rentals & Shuttle Service

ELK VALLEY ELECTRIC Call 304.913.6001 | Text 304.913.6002

www.elkvalleyelectric.com

ELK VALLEY PET CREMATORIUM

304.965.0148

4705 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston (Inside Elk Hills Memorial Park)

ELK VALLEY PHYSICAL THERAPY

304.965.7979

contact Andi Geary, MPT

E.L. ROBINSON ENGINEERING

304.776.7473

5088 Washington St W, Charleston elrobinsonengineering.com

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

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

HOLSTEIN INSURANCE

304.965.9941

holsteininsuranceagencyinc.com

INDIAN LAKE

304.965.5661

1111 Indian Lake Drive, Elkview

JIFFY J’S INC.

Portable Restrooms

800.256.8657

KEITH'S AUTO PARTS

304.548.7627 | 1-800-RACE-A-VW

VW Specialists

6328 Elk River Rd, N. Clendenin

KEMPS 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 & LACE

304.382.1791 Call or Text

Rebekah Kersey, Seamstress

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

MOUNTAINEER AUCTION

304.548.4056

contact Roger Mullins

MT. PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH

304.965.7062 mpbcwv.org

NALU’S STYLE STUDIO LLC

304.343.2049

2777 Penn. Ave, Charleston

PADDLERS BAR & GRILL

681.230.2061

12 Maywood Ave., W., Clendenin

PATRIOT PRESSURE WASHING

304.840.4833 patriothousewash.com

PAXTON BUSINESS SERVICES

304.343.5666

3324 Pennsylvania Ave Ste. 203 Charleston

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

Bill Rogers

SCOTT’S SERVICE & AUTO REPAIR

681.230.2151

311C Elk River Road, S., Clendenin

SLEEP INN

304.345.5111

2772 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston

SMITH'S FURNITURE, APPLIANCE & MATTRESS

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

THE PRINTING PRESS

304.744.7949

143 Gaylor Lane, Charleston

THE SWINE BARREL

304.885.4691

1009 Main St., Elkview

TUDOR’S BISCUIT WORLD

304.965.7769

1083 Main Street, Elkview

VISION APPALACHIA

Jesse & Debbie Boggs

412.780.7523

WALLY'S SUPERIOR PARTS & SERVICE

304.935.2287

5100 Elk River Rd., N., Elkview

XSPEC POWER

304.746.1139

Contact Emily Canterbury

YAK HOUSE RENTALS

304.941.2229

403 Elk Ave., Clendenin Reservations: yakhouserentals.com

There’s no place like home!

THE LIBRARY

MAY LIBRARY EVENTS CLENDENIN ELKVIEW AT

JANUARY LIBRARY EVENTS

Jan

Jan

MAY

Jan

Jan

Jan

Jan

Jan

Jan

Jan

Jan

Jan

Jan

Jan 2 2pm

Jan 3 10:30am

Jan 3 11am

Jan 9 6pm

Jan 10 10:30am

Jan 10 11am

Jan 11 6pm

Jan 15 2pm

Jan 15 6pm

Jan 16 2pm

Jan 23 6pm

Jan 24 10:30am

Jan 24 11am

Jan 25 6pm

Jan 31 10:30am

STEM Afternoon: Snow and Ice

Jump into Storytime

Playgroup at the Library

Machine Sewing

Teens: Painting & Cocoa!

Not Your Average Book Club

Rubber Ducky Day

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: I Have a Dream crafts

Jump into Storytime Playgroup at the Library

Family Fun: Snow Day!

Kids' Sewing Club

Adult Crafternoon: Boho Leaf Wall hanging

Jump into Storytime

Stay & Play

Adult Craft: Boho Leaf Wall hanging

Jump into Storytime

Stay & Play

Fall STEM Ahead: SNOW Much Fun

Kid’s Paint: Peace, Love and MLK Jr

Teen Time

Elk Valley Book Group

Adult Playgroup, Games and Conversation

Jump into Storytime

Stay & Play

Family Fun: Puzzle Race

Discovery Play: SNOW much fun for the littles

Adults

Children 5 & Under

Children 5 & Under Adults

Children 5 & Under

Children 5 & Under

Families/All Ages

Families/All Ages

Teens

Adults Adults

Children 5 & Under

Children 5 & Under Families/All

*Activities available while supplies last

ELK’S COOKBOOK the

WPAM'S FLUFFY FRUIT DIP

By Gabi Strickland

Walker. Gabi is the creator and editor of Walker Mtn. Eats Facebook group, where she shares her delicious recipes which are tried-and-true tested on her husband, Gar, her girls, and her family, church family, and friends.

hat says summer better than a gorgeous fruit platter and a great fruit dip! This recipe was shared with Gabi by her good friend, Pam. Gabi said, “It’s the perfect amount of sweet and vanilla flavors that complement the fruit. The fluff coats the fruit and you get a perfect bite every time!” Gabi also suggested trying the recipe with different flavors of pudding for a twist.

PAM'S FLUFFY FRUIT DIP

From the Kitchen of Gabi Strickland Walker

INGREDIENTS

• 8 oz. cream cheese - softened

• 1 C powdered sugar

• 1 (3.5 oz) pkg. instant vanilla pudding

• 1 C milk

• 1 (8 oz) container of Cool Whip

DIRECTIONS

STEP 1 In a large mixing bowl, using an electric hand mixer on med/low, combine cream cheese and powdered sugar until smooth.

STEP 2 Add pudding and milk and continue to mix on medium speed until it begins to thicken.

STEP 3 Add the cool whip and fold in by hand with a rubber spatula until well combined.

Cover and keep refrigerated | Serve with cut up fruit

WITNESSING THE 2024 TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE IN NEIL ARMSTRONG’S HOMETOWN

The last time I witnessed an eclipse was in 2017, standing in my front yard in Elkview alongside my dad and grandfather, peering through an appropriate-level welding mask. It was an awe-inspiring moment, watching the moon pass before the sun. However, seeing the breathtaking images captured by NASA and hearing stories from friends who witnessed the total solar eclipse firsthand, I realized I had missed something extraordinary - not traveling to the path of totality. I was determined not to repeat that mistake.

As I tuned into the news about a month before this 2024 eclipse, I learned that Wapakoneta, Ohio, Neil Armstrong’s hometown, was dedicating an entire weekend to the eclipse with a Ring of Fire Music Fest, Solar Eclipse Pickleball Tournament, eclipse-themed menu items at the restaurants downtown, and more. The town’s 1904 movie theater with a colorful neon marquee showed movies all weekend long themed to the weekend’s events as well, including “Apollo 13,” ”First Man,” and “Top Gun: Maverick.” There was not a better, or more themed, town to be in to witness the eclipse. And it was only four hours from Elkview! So my mother and I made the trip.

The town celebrating this momentous event wasn’t surprising, considering their deep connection to space exploration and the Armstrong Air & Space Museum being the biggest attraction in town. Strolling down Auglaize Street in downtown Wapakoneta any time of the year, one is greeted by storefronts adorned with spacesuits, moons, and rockets - a testament to the town’s enduring pride in its famous son – the first man to walk on the moon. The city didn’t need a makeover for the occasion. But the statue of Armstrong and a giant mirrored astronaut helmet statue at the heart of town, reminiscent of Chicago’s Bean, were adorned with protective eclipse glasses.

Watching the event on the Armstrong Air & Space Museum lawn was truly something special. Not only was the total eclipse surreal, but sharing that moment with thousands of others who came together to witness the event was extraordinary. The camaraderie of everyone on the lawn reminded me of festivals in Clendenin, where no one is a stranger, and everyone has something to celebrate. Strangers shared Moon Pies, Sun Chips, and laughter. When the sky went dark, the owls started to hoot, and the sun reflected light around the moon; we all got to share something special.

Experience Glamping in the luxury domes at THE GLAMPOUT RESORT

What happens when you combine camping out with a dash of glamorous? You find yourself in a new style of camping, complete with amenities and resort-style services: GLAMPING! The good news is you have awesome glamping domes nearby in Sutton, WV at the GlampOut Resort beside the Elk River Hotel and Cafe. They offer four luxury domes where you can wake up in nature with breathtaking views of the Elk River.

PHOTOS BY AARON SLIGAR

304.402.2121

www.glampoutresort.com

For our anniversary, Ken and I stayed in The Sycamore glamping dome and had a marvelous weekend. It featured a king-sized bed, private bathroom with shower, wet bar with mini-fridge, individual heating/cooling, and best of all, a panoramic view of the Elk River and beautiful Braxton County.

We arrived at 4 PM on a Friday evening and had plenty of time to relax and enjoy appetizers before dinner in the two comfy chairs facing the Elk River. And if that already sounds heavenly, it only got better when we had a rain storm, complete with thunder and lightning. It was wonderful listening to and watching the raindrops hit the see-through dome and the sun-roof opening above the bed. It was totally hypnotic and luckily we both woke up at 6:45 PM before our dinner reservation at 7!!

We had a short walk to the onsite Elk Hotel and Cafe for dinner. The Cafe serves casual offerings as well as several dinner entrees, and its three dining rooms and front porch are perfect for any size gathering. They offer a great menu featuring glampout pizza, calzones, burgers,

salads, appetizers, pastas, vegan-friendly entrees, dinners, desserts, beer and drinks. They are open Tuesday through Saturday from 4-9 PM. Also, during the week they have specials including their popular Thursday Night Burgers and Brews, featuring local beef and bison and three types of WV Beer or their Pizza and Pasta Mix & Match Wednesdays. Also, don’t forget about their Tuesday Special Pizza Night which includes 2 for $24 with 2 fountain drinks. The large glamping dome hosts one-ofa-kind dome events for large groups of all sizes.

We had caesar salads and the chicken and mushroom fettuccine which were wonderful. The whole evening was just perfect and affordable. Jill and Aaron Sligar are incredible hosts and you definitely feel like you have the luxury of a resort but are still tucked away in your own private paradise.

There is something so special about the night when you are in the country. As we strolled back to our dome after dinner, we loved the night sounds and the soft lights of the town reflecting on the Elk River.

The next morning we treated ourselves to a delicious home-cooked breakfast back at the Hotel and Cafe. The waitress shared some history of the hotel and we chatted about the charming town of Sutton. After breakfast we had a leisurely morning watching the wildlife outside our dome until checkout at 11 AM.

The GlampOut Resort also has three other glamping domes featuring two queen beds: The Chestnut, The Hemlock, and The Walnut. They have plans to add seven new domes to the property, four down closer to the river and three additional domes, so they can offer the community even more glamping accommodations. Each eco-friendly dome comes equipped with all of the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay with access to all other Hotel amenities located on the property. They also have EV and Tesla chargers on site.

Bring the family and enjoy the wrap-around porch and gorgeous Hotel grounds, complete with a Flatwoods Monster Chair. Located only 2 miles off of I-79, and 1 hour northeast of Charleston, WV, the Elk River Hotel is located for easy walking to the Sutton Downtown Historic District where you can enjoy the local architecture, shopping, and restaurants. You won’t want to miss stopping in the Flatwoods Monster Museum and the Bigfoot Museum to learn more about the local legends in Braxton County. Also, outdoor enthusiasts visiting the area will want to check out Sutton Dam and the nearby Sutton Lake Marina that offers boat tours, pontoon boats, double deck boats with double slides, jet skis , paddleboards, kayaks, Craig Cats, and other water activities--even a sand bar for swimming and sunbathing. The Elk River is 172 miles long and offers wonderful recreation activities for guests--from hiking and biking on the Elk River Trail, fishing, fly fishing and kayaking on the Elk River Water Trail, experiencing gorgeous scenic drives, to skiing in the winter months. It is also the perfect location to curl up with a good book and watch the river go by. There is something for everyone.

"It was so nice to just take the time to relax, talk to each other, and breathe. In the warmer months, you can also sit outside on the private deck and take in the view. No matter what time of year you choose, glamping is a marvelous way to experience the beauty of the outdoors, star gaze, river gaze, and unplug from the hustle and bustle of life."

Even though we have a place on the river in Braxton County, we thought we would treat ourselves to a night of glamping just to try it out. We are so glad we did. Plush bedding and cozy furnishings made us feel right at home as we enjoyed an unobstructed view of the great outdoors. We realized we need to take more time for ourselves to enjoy the incredible opportunities right here in our back door.

If you are looking for a unique adventure that you won’t find anywhere else on the Elk River, check out the glamping domes at glampoutresort.com today!! Comfy accommodations and the comforts of home all in a country setting. It is a little slice of West Virginia heaven that you truly need to experience.

20%

for

discount

on duty law enforcement, EMS, Dispatchers and OES Personnel

RAIL BIKES COMING THIS SUMMER TO CLAY COUNTY

The West Virginia Department of Transportation (WVDOT) and Rail Explorers have announced J. G. Bradley Campground in nearby Clay County will soon have a new attraction for visitors. Rentals will be available this summer for pedal-powered rail bikes. These bikes are available for all ages and come equipped with an electric motor to assist riders when they need a break or help from pedaling! The bikes run on the rails of the historic Buffalo Creek & Gauley Railroad line that runs along Buffalo Creek from Dundon to Widen through

beautiful, rural countryside. The railroad was a central feature of the historic, bloody Widen Coal Mine Strike of 1952-53.

This will be the Rail Explorers’ seventh location in six states according to a new release from Cindy Butler, Commissioner of the West Virginia Division of Multimodal Transportation Facilities. There will also be a new parking lot and rail spur built for this project.

INFORMATION AND PHOTOS PROVIDED BY ELK RIVER TRAIL FOUNDATION, SAM KIRK, WBOY AND THE WV DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

KANAWHA COUNTYCLENDENIN GRAVITY BIKE ADVENTURE PARK

Governor Jim Justice was in Clendenin for the announcement and presentation of the check and the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Kanawha County Clendenin Gravity Bike Adventure Park. The event was held on April 17 and an array of State Senators, Delegates, County Commissioners, state and local officials, and other special guests attended the event.

Clendenin Mayor Kay Summers said, “It’s a great opportunity for the Town of Clendenin and will bring in a lot of tourism from different states.” The gravity bike park at West Virginia’s SnowShoe Resort is currently recognized as one of the best in the U.S. with legendary berms, jump drops, and flow. Both the Snowshoe and the Kanawha County Clendenin gravity bike adventure parks will host noteworthy bike races and events.

PHOTO FROM SNOWSHOE BIKE PARK

ELK’S JOURNAL the

LIES, LORE AND GOSSIP

By Anna Lee Robe-Terry

This month ERL features West Virginia author Anna Lee Robe-Terry and her delightful book, Lies, Lore and Gossip. It is a funny, sweet, endearing, lovely account of life in a simpler time with wit and charm. It has short vignettes of a wide variety of subjects about life in the country, plus sayings and words of wisdom liberally tossed in too.

This is your favorite aunt recalling stories and sayings. It is 170 pages full of Lies, Lore and Gossip. Anna Lee had a gift of imparting her wisdom and humor through her honest, captivating writing. Anna Lee wrote these stories as she remembered them—all from the place she grew up and returned to later in life, Bunner Ridge in Marion County, West Virginia.

Anna Lee’s stories are about country life: interesting. You can tell by the titles: The pregnant woman, The burglar and the midwife; Funeral on the highest hill; Hoeing corn and the circus; Headless Horse of Nebo Hill; Panthers and vanishing people; and Snipe hunting and milking. Also, we will have her newest book, Bootstraps and Biscuits: 300 Wild Food Recipes from the Hills of West Virginia, coming up in our Elk’s Journal this summer!

Excerpt from Lies, Lore and Gossip

Lies, Lore and Gossip is also full of wonderful almost-lost knowledge on home remedies, hog-nosed snakes, and how to train a baby. Want to find out about the man who mistook his wife for a horse, or how to take one shot and kill three squirrels? Want to learn about traveling peddlers or adventures to have when fetching the mail? There’s even a story called “Skunk grease and just whatever.” And another, “We have the birds trained to think all those berries belong to them.”

It is all in Lies Lore & Gossip, so get two copies. You won’t be half done reading it before you think of countless people to give that second copy to! Go to wvbookco. com (West Virginia Book Company) and order copies of your favorite books or visit them at 1125 Central Avenue, Charleston, WV. Phone 304.342.1848. 9-5 M-F.

How about the headless horseman that roams about Nebo and Joe Kincaid Hill. He rides a beautiful white horse and at least one family suffered much grief from him. When Mr. Stevens was coming home from a Nebo church singing session,...here came the headless horseman. He could not outrun him so he hand-sprung the fence. It was a split rail fence. He gave a run, hand on top rail, and over he went. He was safe now from the horseman but he landed on a snag of a young tree that had recently been cut. The fall forced it in his leg. The headless horseman continued on down Nebo Hill to White Day Creek leaving the shaking Mr. Stevens to regain his composure and continue on home. He got blood poisoning in his leg from the injury and died. Now his body rests in the cemetery of Mt. Nebo Church of Christ.

Then there is this version of the same story: Willie Haun left the meeting at Mt. Nebo Church of Christ on a moonlit night. He saw a ghost riding a white horse coming down Nebo Hill. He took off through the field. He ran like the wind but could not outrun the horse. Then he ran a snag in his leg and down he went. The horse just continued down to Rocky Hollow. He later died of lockjaw. So it may be lore, a lie, or just gossip, but it was.

SPRING BOUNTY

This month’s Reader Submission comes from Scott Bird of Clendenin, WV. In addition to being an avid outdoorsman, Scott also enjoys finding morel mushrooms in the spring and chanterelles in the summer.

Jamie Harless Manager

Nick Hunter Funeral Attendant

Nick Fitzwater Funeral Director

Steve Teel Funeral Attendant John Hafer axton L.I.C/Owner

Tina R. axton Owner

Mary Hafer Founder

ELK’S STUDENTS the

ELK ELEMENTARY ARCHERY TEAM

Elk Elementary archers made history and added another state bulls-eye championship--a four-peat-and finished their season with an undefeated 3 year record of 129-0. Lillian Roberts, a first year shooter, earned the state’s Elementary female champion with a score of 272.

Caroline Barron shot in 8th place, and Haylee Keeling in 10th. Wyatt Shamblin earned a 3rd place, Isaac Pittman- 8th place and Jackson Blankenship-10th. The Elkhounds now prepare for the Nationals competition in both 3D and bullseye in Louisville, KY in May. They are currently tied for 5th place nationally in 3D and 8th place in bulls-eye.

HHHS TRACK AND FIELD

Roane County CHAMPIONS. The girls team came home with several champions and runners up! High Point Champion: Jenna Brown. Congrats!

EMS ARCHERS

EMS Archery Coach Eddie Gray said, “I am super proud of our Elkview Middle School Archery Team which completed the National Archery In The Schools Program and won the 3D Championship Title at the beginning of March. The archers went on to capture the Bullseye State Championship title with a team score of 3329 on March 30th.” The team also finished second overall for the entire tournament between high, middle, and elementary schools.

Abby Gunnoe won the individual State Championship in the 3D Female Division and Elizabeth Chandler won the individual State Champion in the Bullseye Female Division. The team will travel to Louisville, KY for the National Tournament in May and then on to Daytona Beach, FL in June for the World Open Championship.

HHHS ALL COUNTY CHORUS

Meet this year’s HHHS All County Chorus! Aubrey Abbott, Maggie Allison, Isabella Aplin, Haley Bosley, Gauge Cooper, Lexius Crowder, Jeremiah Eagle, Aaron Engle, Amelia Frame, Meredith Frame, Austin Griffin, Emilee Haddox, Madison Hartline, Kelsea Hoffman, Kate Hull, Kurt Keeling, Jelina Lopez, Hanna Moore, Caidynce Nutter, Sofia Perna, Ashley Prowse, Gavin Ruggieri, Olivia Rupe, Gracie Snyder, David Tweel, Nathan Witt, and Parker Workman.

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY EDDIE GRAY

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY JEFFREY MULLINS

PHOTO SUBMITTED BY KATHY SILBAR

SPRING HAS SPRUNG AT SPENCER'S

Check out the great selection of plants and flowers that just arrived at Spencer’s Hardware!

THANK YOU! BIG CLASS OF 1971 RUMMAGE SALE

The HHHS class of 1971 is happy to announce their rummage sale last month was a big success and they were able to raise funds for another HHHS scholarship. They would like to thank the local businesses, Elkview Supermarket, Dairy Queen, and Krogers for their support along with everyone who donated items or money for the sale.

A special shout out also to Vic Dawson for early storage of the items and to his wife, Kelly Naylor Dawson (class of 1992) who posted signs, priced items, and set up the event. Also, thank you to Meri Hines who brought in a tray of delicious cinnamon rolls and cookies! The sale wouldn’t have been such a huge success without the planning, time, donations, and support from everyone who volunteered!

FRIDAY NIGHT JAM

Doors open at 5pm | Band starts at 7pm

Admission $5 | Kids 12 & Under FREE

Thrift store is open Fri. from 5:30-8:30pm

Concessions available

LEONA'S AT GASSAWAY SERVING UP THE GOOD STUFF AGAIN

Leona’s Restaurant at 517 Elk Street in Gassaway has re-opened for business. You won’t want to miss their daily specials, delicious homemade pies, and amazing dinners and breakfasts! Take a ride on the Elk River Trail and swing by and enjoy a delicious meal before you head back home! They are open Monday-Friday 8 AM-3PM, and on Sunday from 8 AM to 3 PM.

ELK REFLECTS the

MAZIE MULLINS CELEBRATES 100TH BIRTHDAY

Mazie E. (Preast) Mullins was one of the original Rosie the Riveters during WWII and she celebrated her 100th Birthday this year on March 14. She was born March 14, 1924, in Nicholas County, and grew up in the Nicholas/ Fayette County area. Mazie was one of 12 children, 'somewhere in the middle' as she puts it.

When Mazie was 17, she and her family listened to the President on the radio announcing the bombing of Pearl Harbor. He announced the start of WWII. The President was asking the women of America to step out and take jobs in the war factories, because most of the men would be going off to battle. At the age of 17, she and a friend left for Akron OH, where the Goodyear Aircraft Plants were located. They were both able to get jobs in the plants, and Mazie worked in Plant C, riveting the wing sections on the airplanes that were being used in the war. She became, and still is, one of America's first and original Rosie the Riveters.

During this time, she was planning to marry her home state sweetheart, and they had made arrangements to meet and come back to WV to marry. The week before they were to meet and come home to be married, she received a telegram that he had been killed. She said, 'this was one of the saddest times of my life'.

When the war ended, Mazie returned to West Virginia and worked at Fletcher Enamel in Dunbar. During this time, she met the love of her life, Wilbur Mullins. She became a stay-at-home wife and mother, helping with their farm at Queen Shoals in Clay County, gardening and canning. She and Wilbur had six children, 3 boys and 3 girls.

On her 100th Birthday her thoughts were expressed to all, "I have had a good life. God has been so good to me. I credit Him for my long life. I have six children and every one of them have been good to me." She has expressed to anyone who would listen over the years, that she loved her children, she loved God, and that both had been very good to her. She would say, 'God always made a way when I just did not see a way."

Article and photos submitted by Kay Armstrong and Jackie Elmore Egnor

ELK’S GARDEN the

WHAT IS YOUR SOIL TELLING YOU?

By

Laura Boggess Shafer. Laura and her family manage a family farm in the Clendenin area. Keeping Appalachian values and traditions alive, she enjoys sharing her wisdom on gardening, canning, preserving, recipes and more with ERL readers!

As we begin to sow seeds and put plants in the ground this spring, you may want to consider a soil test. Why?

A soil test is important for several reasons. It lets you know if you need to add more nutrients and how much lime and fertilizer may be needed for specific crops; it helps optimize crop production; and test results provide valuable information that may save you money before you add too much of a nutrient that is not needed.

Some things a test result will tell you are:

• pH whether your soil is acidic or alkaline

• soil texture

• organic matter

• macronutrient levels (big three are nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium)

• potential growing constraints

Once you have your results, you will know what you need to add to your soil to grow better vegetables. Old wives’ tales say to add wood ash to neutralize acidic soil; epsom salts for magnesium; coffee grounds for nitrogen; eggshells for calcium, and banana peels for potassium. While not all wives’ tales may be good advice, some ring true. A recent soil test will guide you in the right direction, regardless of what method you prefer to adjust your soil.

If you want to try a soil test with actual factual information rather than playing a guessing game there are several options. You can purchase a pH kit at your local hardware store or co-op center. Many options are available at Lowes, Home Depot, Walmart, etc.

You can also have your soil tested through your local WVU extension office. It’s free--all you have to pay is the postage to mail it in! The extension office requests that you mail them a good handful of dry soil to the address on their soil-testing form. Go to the WVU Extension at https://extension.wvu.edu/natural-resources/soil-water/ soil-testing for more information.

If you can’t download the form, you can also call them at 304.720.9573 or 9889 for assistance. You can also pick up a form at your local extension office for free if you don’t want to go online.

HEALTHY ELK the

CELEBRATE NATIONAL ARTHRITIS MONTH

BY TAKING CHARGE OF YOUR HEALTH AND YOUR LIFE WITH PHYSICAL THERAPY!

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

Arthritis is a common condition that causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints. According to the CDC, arthritis affects more than 54 million adults in the United States. That makes it one of the leading causes of disability.

But there is hope for people with arthritis. Physical therapy (PT) is a proven and effective treatment to manage symptoms, improve function, and enhance quality of life. Physical therapists are licensed professionals who evaluate and treat conditions that limit the body’s ability to move and perform daily activities. They can also teach you how to prevent or reduce the impact of arthritis on your health and wellbeing.

PT for arthritis can help you! Physical therapists can: Ease pain. Use things like massage, joint mobilizations, exercise, and braces or splints to relieve pain and inflammation in the affected joints; Increase range

of motion. Design a personalized exercise program that includes stretching, strengthening, coordination, and balance exercises to improve your flexibility and mobility; Improve movement patterns. Teach you proper posture and body mechanics for common activities, such as getting in and out of chairs, climbing stairs, walking, or working. This can help protect your joints to slow down or prevent progression of your symptoms; Enhance your fitness level. Help you create a home workout routine that matches your goals and abilities. They can also show you how to exercise safely and effectively without aggravating your arthritis symptoms, and Maintain function. Help you maintain or restore your ability to perform everyday tasks like cooking, gardening, shopping, or playing with your grandchildren.

PT treatment for arthritis is tailored to your individual needs and can complement other treatments for arthritis, such as medications, bracing, or topical products. Research has shown that PT can be more effective than steroid injections at reducing pain and disability in people with knee osteoarthritis. It can also have positive effects on fatigue, cardio fitness, cognition, and body composition in people with rheumatoid arthritis.

If you have arthritis or know someone who does, don’t let this month pass by without taking action. Contact your physical therapist for an appointment. You can also visit the websites of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) or the Arthritis Foundation to find a physical therapist near you or learn more about physical therapy for arthritis.