Elk River Living | Volume 06 | Issue 07

ELK RIVER LIVING

FEATURE STORY

Rail Explorer® offers a unique family-friendly adventure through our majestic West Virginia mountains with views of Devil’s Sawmill Waterfall. p. 22 p. 16

Plan now to bring the family and meet up with all of your friends and neighbors at the Gassaway Days Celebration July 4-6 in Gassaway at the Kenton Meadows Field. See you at Gassaway Days

Dreams meet plans.

Gassaway Days

Bigger & Better Than Ever

This year’s Gassaway Days Celebration 2024 is packed full of events starting on Thursday, July 4, at 5:00 PM and concluding with a fireworks finale on Saturday, July 6 at 10 PM.

"We are excited to bring this event back during the Fourth of July holiday for the Gassaway High School alumni. Everyone is happy with the new date!”

– Sandy Whitsel Simons | Volunteer & Organizer

Ride the Rails!

"I could not be more excited to welcome Rail Explorers to our great state,” said Gov. Jim Justice. “We’ve seen an incredible boost to the area since opening the Elk River Trail, and it’s just fantastic to see that success expand even further with the addition of Rail Explorers to our state’s growing tourism economy."

The Elk's Cookbook Peach Upside Down Cupcakes

Reader Submission Lilacs In Bloom

The Elk Reflects Clendenin's American Legion

The Elk's Garden Pickled Corn Sponsors

The Healthy Elk PT's Know Nutrition is Fuel for Recovery

Elkhound Archers Victorious Again

The Elkhounds shot their way to their bestcombined ranking in Bullseye to place 2nd overall and earned 3rd place in 3D shooting! Also, Jackson Blankenship won the National Tournament Academic All-American Award.

Hello & Welcome Back!

July is always one of my favorite months. I love summer and July checks all the boxes for everything I enjoy. Warm mornings for Ken and me to sit outside and have our coffee, flowers in full bloom creating a gorgeous landscape, fresh garden veggies, fireflies lighting up the night sky, watermelon everything, kids enjoying summer freedom, family get togethers, the joyful chorus of birds echoing across our backyard, the smell of fresh-cut grass, and the fourth of July fireworks. It’s a month to celebrate all of the good things that make me smile.

What makes you smile? July is a good month to reflect on the little things that we don’t normally take the time to do. Even though gardening requires time and effort, is it something you enjoy? Do you love seeing the results of your labor? Do you love sitting outside on the porch with a good book? Do you like watching the river and seeing a ripple from a fish or a momma duck and her babies swim by?

Most importantly, do you take the time to share heart-felt moments with your family and friends? My mom told my brother, Dave, “Remember me in the spring, my favorite time of the year.” He mentions it to me every spring. It’s a moment when we stop and talk about mom, to treasure what she meant to us.

If we don’t share our thoughts, then how will others know what is truly in our hearts? Sometimes listening to other people share their thoughts reminds me of things I have forgotten, things I loved to do as a child. It jumpstarts me to revisit things that were once important. It’s a good thing for all of us to do. Just. stop. and. take. time.

Enjoy your July! We still have a full month of glorious summer! Be safe, my friends. See you next month.

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

Welcome to the new Rail Explorers, located at 874 Buffalo Creek Road in Clay, WV. Photo by Cyndi Tawney, ERL, taken at the ribbon-cutting ceremony on Friday, July 7, 2024.

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

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 Rd., 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 Rd., Clendenin

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 Penn. Ave., Charleston

BRANNON'S AUTO

304.935.2335

4039 Penn. Ave., Charleston

BRIDGEVALLEY COMMUNITY & TECHNICAL COLLEGE

304.205.6700

admissions@bridgevalley.edu

CANTRELL’S FLORIST

304.548.7700

7484 Elk River Rd., Clendenin

CENTRAL WV AGING SERVICES

304.965.9081

Local Charleston Office

CHAMBERS REPAIR & TOWING

24-Hour Towing and Lockout

304.965.5634

648 Shady Ln., Elkview

CLENDENIN MEMORIAL PARK

304.768.6331 or 304.541.3101

236 North Point Dr., 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

EDENS BODY WORKS, INC.

304.965.5900

102 Neville Rd., Elkview

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 St., Clendenin

ELK RIVER CHIROPRACTIC

304.965.2458 | Dr. Scott Collias

4710 Chimney Dr., Ste. D, Charleston

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

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 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

GREENS OF BIG CHIMNEY

304.965.3313

4509 Penn. Ave., Charleston

HAFER FUNERAL HOME & MYER’S CHAPEL

304.965.3331 | 304.965.3341

haferfuneralhome.net

HARDING'S FAMILY RESTAURANT

304.344.5044

2772 Penn. Ave., Charleston

HOLSTEIN INSURANCE

304.965.9941

holsteininsuranceagencyinc.com

INDIAN LAKE

304.965.5661

1111 Indian Lake Dr., Elkview

JIFFY J’S INC.

Portable Restrooms

800.256.8657

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

LITTLE SECRET DESIGN CO.

304.427.6797

www.littlesecretdesign.co

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 Penn. Ave., Ste. 203, Charleston

PEGGY WHITE, REALTOR

Old Colony

304.395.0619

PINCH REUNION COMMITTEE

Facebook @ Pinch Reunion WV www.pinchreunion.com

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 Rd., S. Clendenin

SLEEP INN

304.345.5111

2772 Penn. Ave., Chas

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

STUMP-MATICS FUNERAL HOME

304.548.6611

www.stumpfuneralhomes.com

TAYLOR MADE CAFE

681.230.2020

311A Elk River Rd., S. Clendenin

TIM HOGANS DESIGN GALLERY @ BIG CHIMNEY

304.965.7111

4774 Chimney Dr., Charleston

THE PRINTING PRESS

304.744.7949

143 Gaylor Ln., Chas

TUDOR’S BISCUIT WORLD

304.965.7769

1083 Main St., 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

THOUSANDS OF EYES SEE OUR SPONSOR ADS EACH MONTH!

AT THE LIBRARY

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

JULY LIBRARY EVENTS

DATE TIME PROGRAM AGE

July 2 6PM Mario Kart Tournament

Tweens & Teens

July 3 2PM STEM for 4th of July Families

July 9 3PM

July 11 10:30AM

Camping Adventure Paint Along Tweens, Teens, Adults, Seniors

Jump into Storytime

July 11 11AM Playgroup at the Library

July 11 2PM

Kids Sew Bean Bags

Children 0-5

Children 0-5

Ages 6-12

July 13 11AM Machine Sewing: Open Sewing Tweens, Teens, Adults, Seniors

July 16 2PM

July 16 5:30PM

Children’s Glow Party Ages 3-11

Children’s Glow Party Ages 3-11

July 18 3PM Robot Golf!

Tweens & Teens

July 20 11AM Ice Cream Social All Ages

July 23 2PM

SLC: Animal Adventures Families

July 25 5:30PM Family Building Fun Families

July 27 Noon Foamtastic Fun Party Families

DATE

TIME

July 1 2PM

PROGRAM AGE

Underwater Artifacts Families

July 3 10:30AM Jump into Storytime: Underwater Adventures Children 0-5

July 3 11AM Stay ‘n Play Children 0-5

July 8 2PM DIY Stamped Jewelry Making Adults & Teens

July 8 6PM Teen Time: Jewelry Making Workshop Teens

July 9 2PM Summer Camp Creations: Edible Art Families

July 9 5:30PM Mario Kart Tournament Teens & Tweens

July 10 10:30AM Jump into Storytime: Royal Adventures

July 10 11AM Stay ‘n Play

Children 0-5

Children 0-5

July 11 2PM Families Paint: Stained Glass Window Families

July 15–19 All Day Story Stroll: One Duck Stuck Families

July 15 4PM Robot Golf! Tweens & Teens

July 16 2PM Elk Valley Book Group

Adults

July 18 10:30AM Bookmobile! Storytime at Coonskin Park Children 0-5

July 18 6PM Travel Journaling Adults & Teens

July 22 6PM SLC: Animal Adventures-Zoology Zone Families

July 23 2PM Summer Camp Creations: ROCKin’ Crafts! Families

July 24 10:30AM Jump into Storytime: Jungle Adventures

July 24 11AM Stay ‘n Play

July 25 11AM Safari Science with Arclin Amines

Children 0-5

Children 0-5

Families

July 29 4:30PM SLC Finale: My Library Era: Taylor or Turtles? Families

August 1 5PM Elk Valley Advisory Board Used Book Fundraiser All Ages

August 2 & 3 10AM Elk Valley Advisory Board Used Book Fundraiser All Ages

ELK’S COOKBOOK

PEACH UPSIDE DOWN CUPCAKES

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.

Gabi Strickland Walker says these are so delicious--fresh and just a little more sweet than the fruit--so yummy. Easy to make, easy to eat, and easy to serve, especially with a scoop of ice cream. Next time you have some fresh peaches, give this recipe a try!

PEACH UPSIDE DOWN CUPCAKES

From the Kitchen of Gabi Strickland Walker

INGREDIENTS

TOPPING

• 6 tbsp cold butter - divided

• 12 tsp light brown sugar - divided

CAKE

• 3 fresh peaches - divided

• 1 ½ Cups All Purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking powder

• ½ tsp baking soda

• ¼ tsp salt

• ⅔ Cup sugar

• ⅓ Cup butter - soften

• 1 large egg (room temp)

• 1 tsp vanilla

• ½ Cup buttermilk (room temp)

DIRECTIONS

TOPPING

Preheat & Bake at 350• | 25-30 Min

STEP 1 Spray muffin pan with non-stick cooking spray. Set Aside. Cut 6 T butter into 12 equal parts (half) Place each ½ T butter piece in 12 muffin cups. Sprinkle 1 t of brown sugar into each muffin cup.

STEP 2 Slice 1-2 peaches into thin slices. Arrange about 3 slices into the bottom of each muffin pan. Set aside while you prepare the cake batter.

CAKE BATTER

STEP 1 Cut the remaining peaches into small cubes. You should get about 1 C of cubed peaches. Set aside. In a small bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt.

STEP 2 In a mixing bowl with paddle attachment, beat butter and sugar together until fluffy and creamy, about 2 minutes. Add egg and vanilla extract and beat it for another 2-3 minutes, or until well combined. The mixture should be fluffy (Note: It's totally normal for the mixture to curdle right after adding egg, but keep mixing and it'll turn nice and fluffy!)

STEP 3 Add half of the flour mixture into the batter, beat for 1 minute on low speed. Stir in the buttermilk and beat for another minute. Add the remaining flour mixture and beat just until combined. Don't overmix the batter, or it'll make a tough cake. Fold the cubed peaches into the batter.

STEP 4 Divide the batter into 12 muffin pan cups; a large cookie scoop works well. (You are putting the batter directly over the peaches and topping you prepared in bottom of muffin cups.)

STEP 5 Bake for 25-30 min, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool the cakes in the pan for 5 minutes. Then carefully run a butter knife around the edges to release the cake from the sides. Now, place a wire rack over the muffin pan and carefully turn the pan upside down to remove the cakes.Serve the mini cakes warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a garnish/sprinkle of brown sugar.

BIGGER & BETTER THAN EVER!

SEE YOU AT THE GASSAWAY DAYS CELEBRATION, JULY 4-6!

This year’s Gassaway Days Celebration 2024 is packed full of events starting on Thursday, July 4, at 5:00 PM and concluding with a fireworks finale on Saturday, July 6 at 10 PM. Gassaway Days is a tribute to the Town of Gassaway, once a booming railroad town with a depot, two hotels, a bank, schools, churches, shops, armory, and hospital. Gassaway is still a town rich in tradition and history.

Sandy Whitsel Simons of Gassaway helped organize this year’s celebration. She said, “This year may be the best yet. We have upgraded entertainment including Cody Clayton Eagle, 2019 American Idol Gold Ticket Winner and

Nashville Recording Artist; Josh Oldaker, Country Gospel Music; Hillbilly Biscuits, Old Time Bluegrass & Original Mountain Music; Nate & Rob’s Frat Party, Acoustic Rock, Country, Soul, and Nashville recording artists Morgan White, 2023 Josie Music Awards, Single of the Year; Corey Hager, and Kate Boytek!”

Gassaway Days will also have carnival rides daily from Myers Amusements, Ice Skating at The Rink in Gassaway Park, Mr. Regling Magic Shows, and Cincinnati Circus Stunt Shows. There will also be a parade, car show, cake walks, 50/50 drawing, dog show, superheroes, food trucks, vendors, crafts and more!

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY GASSAWAY DAYS CELEBRATION COMMITTEE

GASSAWAY DAYS CELEBRATION 2024 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

THURSDAY, JULY 4TH

5pm Myers Amusements

5:30pm Opening Ceremony

National Anthem | Kalyn Harris

Flag Presentation | American Legion Post 33 & Boy Scout Troop

Also, how about this fun fact: all of the entertainment at this year’s Gassaway Days are from or live in West Virginia except for the Cincinnati Circus performers who are from our neighboring state, Ohio.

The Gassaway Days volunteers have been working hard raising money for this year's celebration. Some of their fundraisers have been hot dog sales, a Bingo event sponsored by the Sutton Moose Lodge 825, and a basket auction. “This year we wanted Gassaway Days to be all about the kids. We have raised enough money so that all of the events are free for the public except for the carnival rides which require a $25 hand stamp,” said Sandy. “Also, we are excited to bring this event back during the Fourth of July holiday for the Gassaway High School alumni. Everyone is happy with the new date!”

Plan now to bring the family and meet up with all of your friends and neighbors at the Gassaway Days Celebration, July 4-6 in Gassaway, WV at the Kenton Meadows Field. What a great way to create memories and celebrate the Fourth of July!

6pm

Gassaway Baptist Church Choir

Cincinnati Circus Stunt Show

Ice Skating @ The Park

7pm Josh Oldaker | Country Gospel Music

9pm Cincinnati Circus Stunt Show

FEATURE: Cody Clayton Eagle | 2019 American Idol Golden

Ticket Winner & Nashville Recording Artist

FRIDAY, JULY 5TH

1pm

Cincinnati Circus Stunt Show

2pm Ice Skating @ The Park

5pm Myers Amusements

6pm The Pulse Prise Team

Cincinnati Circus Stunt Show

7pm Mr. Regling Magic Show @ Gassaway Community Bldg. Lawn

Nate & Rob’s Frat Party, Acoustic Rock, Country, Soul

8:30pm Mr. Regling Magic Show @ Gassaway Community Bldg. Lawn

9pm

Cincinnati Circus Stunt Show

FEATURE: Morgan White | Nashville Recording Artist

SATURDAY, JULY 6TH

8am Mr. T’s Memorial 5K Run

Breakfast by Shiloh Church @ Gassaway Community Bldg

9am Car Show Registration on River Street

10am The Tiny Sparrow Art Studio Face Painting/Crafts

11am Pet Show @ Gassaway Park

Ice Skating @ Gassaway Park

Noon Rubber Duck Race @ Capt. Billy Jake Smith Bridge

1pm Parade Lineup @ Go-Mart Office

2pm Parade on Elk Street

3pm Cincinnati Circus Stunt Show

Ice Skating @ The Park

Myers Amusements

5pm Hillbilly Biscuits | Old Time Bluegrass & Original Mountain Music

5:30pm Cincinnati Circus Stunt Show

6pm Mr. Regling Magic Show @ Gassaway Community Bldg. Lawn

7pm FEATURE: Cory Hager | Nashville Recording Artist

8pm Mr. Regling Magic Show @ Gassaway Community Bldg. Lawn

8:30pm Cincinnati Circus Stunt Show

9pm FEATURE: Kate Boytek | Nashville Recording Artist

10pm Fireworks Finale

Don’t forget to also visit our crafters on the Kenton Meadows Field and in the Train Depot. Thanks to all those who helped with this year’s Gassaway Days Celebration! Special thanks to Rexroad Supply.

RTHE RAILS!

NEWS RELEASE CLAY, WV PHOTOS PROVIDED BY ASHLEY BRAUER FOR RAIL EXPLORERS & CYNDI TAWNEY FOR ELK RIVER LIVING

ail Explorers – the nation’s leading railbike operator – opened its newest location in the heart of West Virginia on June 8, 2024. Departing from the junction of the Elk River and Buffalo Creek in Clay, the tour offers a unique 12-mile round trip journey along the historic Buffalo Creek & Gauley Railroad, following the twists and turns of the crystal-clear water through the breathtaking forest, past the stunning Devil’s Sawmill Waterfall and over Sand Fork Bridge.

“This unforgettable outdoor adventure combines the tranquility of nature with the thrill of rail biking and magic of the railroad,” said Mary Joy Lu, Rail Explorers CEO. “We are incredibly excited to bring Rail Explorers to Clay, WV. The beauty of this area is unmatched – we are so proud to re-activate this historic railroad that has been a lifeline in the community for over 100 years. This twohour, eco-friendly activity is fully accessible to people of all ages and abilities, making this a perfect activity for families, friends, and solo explorers.”

Rail Explorers founded the railbike industry in America. Its custom-built railbikes are pedal-powered, have hydraulic disc brakes, and feature a custom-built electric motor – the REX Propulsion System. The technology leads the world in safety, design, and ease-of-operation.

The combination creates a truly effortless ride for guests of all ages and abilities – including those who are visually or hearing impaired, or differently abled. Rail Explorers’ commitment to inclusion prompted the custom electricpedal assistance system to overcome the difficulty of pedaling uphill, as well as an all-steel-frame construction that is strong enough to have no rider weight restrictions.

“I could not be more excited to welcome Rail Explorers to our great state,” said Gov. Jim Justice. “We’ve seen an incredible boost to the area since opening the Elk River Trail, and it’s just fantastic to see that success expand even further with the addition of Rail Explorers to our state’s growing tourism economy. Railbikes have been extremely popular in other areas of the country, and it's

great to see them right here in Clay County.”

The Clay location is expected to employ 15 – 20 people, including seasonal guides. In drawing visitors from across the U.S., Rail Explorers also provides a boost to community restaurants and businesses. The West Virginia Department of Tourism reports the tourism impact in Clay County was $5.6 million in 2022.

"I'm thrilled to welcome Rail Explorers to the Mountain State," said West Virginia Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby. "This is such a unique attraction and I'm looking forward to folks coming to try it for themselves. You may even have the opportunity to check off one of the newest waterfalls on the West Virginia Waterfall Trail while riding a rail bike too!"

Devil’s Sawmill Waterfall, on Buffalo Creek, is one of three falls added to the West Virginia Waterfall Trail last week. The waterfall is located about five miles into the railbike tour.

“The Departments of Transportation and Tourism have joined forces to make this anticipation a reality. Our motto at Transportation is ‘ONE DOT.’ With each collaborative project, we are working together for the betterment of our state,” said Sec. Jimmy Wriston, P.E., West Virginia Department of Transportation. “Thanks to our dynamic Governor and his unwavering commitment to expanding the tourism industry within our state, new venues and attractions like Rail Explorers are making their way to WV.”

This latest addition marks Rail Explorers’ seventh division, bringing its custom-built railbikes to another beautiful part of the United States, including Boone, Iowa; The Catskills and Cooperstown, NY; Rhode Island; Amador County, Calif.; and Versailles, KY. The company began operations in 2015 and has hosted more than 650,000 riders.

“We’re excited to see Rail Explorers join our community,” said Mayor Jason Hubbard, Clay. “This is a wonderful

opportunity to showcase Clay County’s stunning landscapes and provide a new attraction for both residents and visitors. We welcome our new neighbors and community partners.”

Tours are open Thursdays through Mondays at 874 Buffalo Creek Road, Clay, WV 25043. Riders can choose a Quad Railbike (up to four riders) for $160 or Tandem Railbike (up to two riders) for $80. Clay County residents are eligible for discounted rides on ‘Locals’ Days.’

Tours are open to the public and pet friendly. Pets ride for free, but are limited to 40 lbs. or less, one pet per bike. Previous pets have included dogs, cats, lizards, parrots, even ducks.

Limited seats are available and reservations are recommended. Visit RailExplorers.net or call 877-8338588 to learn more and reserve tickets. On the website, select tours and then choose Elk River, WV for the Buffalo Creek Cruise.

About Rail Explorers USA The inspiration for Rail Explorers came from a scene in a Korean soap opera. In 2012, company co-founder Mary Joy Lu was watching one of her favorite K-dramas and became intrigued when she saw a strange contraption being pedaled along the railroad tracks. Mary Joy was so excited by this extraordinary looking railbike that within 10 days she was on a plane to South Korea to meet with the designer and manufacturer of the vehicles. Mary Joy, husband and co-founder Alex Catchpoole, and other Rail Explorers employees traveled back to Korea in 2015 to learn more about the unique business. Rail Explorers brought a fleet of explorers to the U.S. and began operations in the Adirondacks in 2015. This was the first time these railbikes had been outside of South Korea.

Rail Explorers is committed to social and environmentally responsible operations and management. The railbikes produce zero emissions and tours have little to no impact on the environment and eco-systems through which they travel. Visit RailExplorers.net for more information.

ELK’S JOURNAL

NIGHT WATCH

By Jayne Anne Phillips

Pulitzer Prize Winner and New Yorker Best Book of the Year, meet Author Jayne Anne Phillips, born and raised in West Virginia.

In her stunning novel, Night Watch, Amazon stated that Jayne Anne Phillips presents a mesmerizing story about a mother and daughter seeking refuge in the chaotic aftermath of the Civil War--and a brilliant portrait of family endurance against all odds. In 1874, in the wake of the War, erasure, trauma, and namelessness haunt civilians and veterans, renegades and wanderers, freedmen and runaways. Twelve-year-old ConaLee, the adult in her family for as long as she can remember, finds herself on a buckboard journey with her mother, Eliza, who hasn’t spoken in more than a year. They arrive at the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum in West Virginia, delivered to the hospital’s entrance by a war veteran who has forced himself into their world. There, far from family, a beloved neighbor, and the mountain home they knew, they try to reclaim their lives.

Copies of this Pulitzer Prize winning Night Watch are in stock now at Plot Twist Books. 209 D Street, in South Charleston. 681.205.2096. Check out this charming store with new and used books and bookish gifts!

and pointed his finger at me until he touched my throat, just at the little notch of bone. Then listen, he said, I am not yer Papa, nor have I ever been. I never laid eyes on you or your mama till I came upon you, and you don’t know my name.

It was true. She had never called him a name. Only at first he bade us call him Papa and she never said different. No woman teched in the head is going to raise three young ones, he said, with no man and no one but you to help. I can’t help her nor stay away from her. I swallowed once and felt his finger press harder. I thought to choke but held my breath.

So don’t be looking for me, he said, or tell anyone where you come from. I only rode here as a kindness. You was walking along the road, and because she is a quality woman in need of refuge, I rode you here. It was on my way.

RECOMMENDATIONS?

ERL believes in sharing the rich written heritage of West Virginia. From published works to personal essays to poetry, we welcome your submissions in adding to the Appalachian canon.

Those lights you see. Not everyone sees lights. Say you need a room near hers, to keep her calm. Across the hall or just beside. Don’t ever argue or make a fuss, or they will separate you. Sir? I said. Times is hard, he said, and flicked the reins. You’ll tell the story. The wagon was moving off and his words drifted back with the dust.”

LILACS IN BLOOM

SHARED BY DIANA R. DAVIS

These gorgeous lilac bushes were photographed in the New Hope Road area of Elkview, WV.

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

ELKHOUND ARCHERS VICTORIOUS AGAIN!

Article and photos by Coach Jeffrey Mullins

The Elk Elementary Elkhounds fared well during the championship series in May and June. First up were the Eastern Nationals, where the Elkhounds finished 6th in Bullseye and 3rd in 3D shooting.

The National Tournament produced the Elkhounds' first ever Academic All-American in Jackson Blankenship.! This prestigious award is given to those archers who excel in the classroom and on the shooting range. Jackson worked hard for his 4.0 GPA in his fifth-grade classroom and his 287/300 and 285/300 3D and Bullseye tournaments! He actually placed 5th in bullseye and 2nd in 3D! On to the NASP (National Archery in the Schools Program) Championship, where the Elkhounds shot their way to their best combined ranking in both tournament series. They shot their 2nd highest score ever (3189) in Bullseye to place 2nd overall and earned a 3rd place finish in 3D shooting. When the Elkhounds won the 3D

ALL-STATE BASEBALL

HHHS Senior infielder Colin Lindsay and sophomore utility standout Tristan Harless have been chosen to represent the Huskies on the first team AA All-State Baseball Team. Lindsay paced Hoover with 34 RBI on the year and 15 extra base hits. Harless was second on the team in hits, while completing a 6-3 record on the mound with a 2.40 ERA.

championship last year, they missed hitting the podium by one spot, finishing 4th.

The championship this past weekend ended the season for bullseye shooting but 3D continues with one last tournament in August for the Outdoor World's 3D Challenge. Coach Mullins said, "I continue to be amazed at the dedication of these archers, parents, coaches, and community members to this archery team! I am so blessed to be a part of it!"

STATE SOFTBALL PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Herbert Hoover’s Laila Varney has been named the 2024 State Softball Player of the Year by the WV Sports Writers Association. The senior pitcher ended her year by going 20-4, striking out 261 batters and pitching an 1.34 ERA in the circle. At the plate she batted .467, hitting four home runs and driving home 32 runners.

AUGUST 1-3

BIG

USED BOOK SALE FUNDRAISER AT EVPL

Support your local libraries! Elk Valley Branch Library is having a big used-book sale starting with their Early Bird Sale on Thursday, August 1, from 5-7 PM. It’s a perfect time to grab your favorites before the sale starts on Friday and Saturday (August 2-3), from 10 AM to 3:00 PM.

Bring a big bag or a box and load up for the summer! They will have a large assortment of books, DVDs/ CDs, magazines, music, and teen/children’s books. This fundraiser is sponsored by the Elk Valley Advisory Board. Location is 313 The Crossings Mall, Elkview.

Donations are $1 for hardbacks, 0.25 for paperbacks,

FRIDAY NIGHT JAM

DIXIE HIGHWAY

STEPHANIE & THE BAND OF BROTHERS

RUFF CUT COUNTRY

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

ELK REFLECTS the

CLENDENIN'S AMERICAN LEGION

This month’s Elk Reflects was shared by Kim Johnson of You Know You’re From Clendenin WV When.

Clendenin's American Legion honor guard stands in front of their meeting hall in this undated photo. The building located at the intersection of Elk Ave. and First St. was torn down years ago in the late 70’s/early 80’s. Photo courtesy of Henry Young. George Y. Kerr said, “Memorial Day ceremonies were big in the 50’s in Clendenin. White crosses were placed in the high school lawn, American Legion had a gun salute, pastors prayed, speakers were heard, and the Clendenin High School band played.”

PICKLED CORN ELK’S GARDEN the

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!

It won’t be long ‘til corn will be ready in your garden or at your local farmers’ markets. One way to work up some of your bounty of corn is to pickle it.

I have discovered that people either love pickled corn or hate it. I had never heard of it until I married Frank. The recipe he was given was to mix salt water until an egg would float. We weren’t sure how high it needed to float! Eventually, we learned it only needed to barely come up off the bottom. Unfortunately, our first couple of batches of pickled corn were way too salty! After trial and error and

thankfully talking with other experienced gardeners, we found the perfect combination: mix one cup of pickling salt to one gallon of water.

Note: We pickle our corn according to the signs of the man in the Almanac. They say not to pickle in the signs of the feet or it will stink. Don’t pickle in the sign of the bowels or it will be foul. We like to pickle in the sign of the head, shoulders, or arms or in the sign of the thighs or legs going down.

STEP ONE

First pick, shuck, and remove the silk from your ears of corn. Cook until the ears are almost done and ready to eat, approximately 5-10 minutes. Let cool.

STEP TWO

Once cooled, we put the ears of corn in a white/light colored pillow case. (Note: mold will form on the water during the pickling process - the pillow case keeps the mold off the corn) Place the corn/pillowcase in a large crock.

STEP THREE

Pour the salt-water mixture (1 cup pickling salt to 1 gallon water) over the corn. Mix enough to completely cover the corn.

STEP FOUR

Weight down the corn. We use smooth round rocks that have been cleaned well. You can also use a heavy dinner plate. Let the corn rest in the crock until pickled, approximately two weeks. Then your corn is ready to eat or can.

You can remove the ears straight out of the crock and eat them or you can also choose to cut the kernels off of the cob and can it. To can, simply cut the corn off the cob, place in prepared jars, add water, and process for 20 minutes in a hot water bath. We also like to cut the corn off the cob and fry it in a little bit of bacon grease. There are lots of options!

Pickled corn will keep in a crock all winter. The photos shown here are of corn that was taken out of the crock in mid-June the following year. Many people keep a crock jar of corn in their cellar and just go down and retrieve an ear whenever they want one. My friend shared a story of her grandmother who proudly took her brother down to the cellar so he could try an ear of her pickled corn. To her surprise (and horror), all that was left in the crock were empty cobs because her kids had sneaked into the cellar and eaten all of the pickled corn off the cobs!

Another good story: My husband Frank and his cousin (as kids) were throwing rocks to get apples off a tree. His cousin’s rock hit and broke their grandmother's crock on the porch which was full of pickled corn. Frank said the

only thing that kept them from being in big trouble was their grandmother had their dads get another crock ready to put the corn in while she quickly fixed more salt water to save the corn. The moral of these stories is don’t mess with people who love their pickled corn--they take it very seriously!

Pickled corn is a great side dish alongside any of your favorite smoked meats. It can also be added to salads or served on summer charcuterie boards or as a relish. Toss in some sweet red onions, some spicy jalapenos and cilantro and you have a great topping for your summer dishes. Mix in with your fresh diced tomatoes, onions, and cucumbers and create a twist on one of your favorite recipes. Let your creativity be your guide!

Pickled corn is an acquired taste. At first I did not like it, but over the years I have grown to really like it. Our kids and two of the grandsons love it, too. If you haven’t tried it, this may be a perfect season to find a crock and make your first batch. My bet is it won’t be your last batch! I hope you are enjoying your fresh garden vegetables this summer!

HEALTHY ELK

PT'S KNOW NUTRITION IS FUEL FOR RECOVERY

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.

Physical therapy and nutrition are often seen as separate, but physical therapists know that they are deeply intertwined. To get the most out of PT, especially after an injury or surgery, successfully integrating both is crucial. During recovery from an injury or surgery, the body is working to heal itself. PT activities and exercises are designed to help it along. Nutrition is literally the fuel that makes the whole process work. Patients who are low on fuel have a slower or incomplete recovery.

Protein is a great example of a recovery fuel. It provides the building blocks for tissue repair and muscle growth. Recovery from an injury increases the body’s protein demand. People who don’t eat enough will heal slower.

The body will also struggle to build new muscle, which will lead to less mobility, range of motion and strength. That means it takes longer to get back to normal activities.

Healing also requires enough micronutrients, like vitamins and minerals. For example, vitamin C is needed to make collagen, which goes into bones, skin, and connective tissue. Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium, which is important for healing fractures, or surgeries involving bones. Iron helps blood cells carry oxygen throughout your body, which is needed for healing in general. Again, being low on any of these micronutrients affects healing.

Poor nutrition can affect people before they end up in the PT clinic. In fact, it can directly contribute to the reasons they are there. Being overweight leads to a higher risk for cardiovascular disease, stroke, osteoarthritis, back pain, diabetes, sleep apnea, and more. All of these are conditions that might lead to the need for PT or that impact healing from injury. Eating a healthy diet is the most effective way to reduce body weight. Combining a healthy diet with exercise is even better.

While PTs are not authorized to provide individual diet plans or medical nutritional advice, they recognize that overall health and well-being involve various factors, including proper nutrition. They encourage patients to adopt healthy lifestyle habits that include a balanced diet alongside regular exercise and proper sleep hygiene. While PT’s are known for being movement experts, they also know that great movement requires the best fuel. They use their knowledge to help patients combine both to get the most out of recovery.

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