ELK RIVER LIVING
FEATURE STORY
Where Everybody Knows Your Name!
New owners Evan and Becky Harding have made The Clendenin Brewing Company the place you want to be! NEW extended hours and a great lineup of beverages, food, musicians, and events.
A New Roxy with Some Moxie!
25045 - A New Clendenin, Inc. is renovating the Roxy as a premier center for movies, performances, and other community events, adding to the town's revitalization.
Dreams meet plans.
25045 - A New Clendenin, Inc. is renovating the Roxy as a premier center for movies; theater, dance, and musical performances; educational classes; conferences, and other community events!
Boggess Shafer of Clendenin shares some
for a variety of
be a part of
"One big focus point when we got the brewery was to turn this into a place of community… all types of folks, events, and whatever might come. We have faith that we can grow into amazing things. We would
As we usher in October, I have found the cool evenings to be a perfect time to curl up with a book or my Kindle. This month ERL features Strange as this Weather Has Been by awardwinning West Virginia author Ann Pancake. I started reading it and couldn’t put it down. Read the excerpt in our Elk’s Journal and I imagine you’ll feel the same way!
Bringing back the Roxy is one of our featured articles this month. The non-profit group of 25045 - A New Clendenin, Inc. (ANC) was excited and making progress restoring the Roxy in 2015-16, but the Flood of 2016 wiped out their progress and halted their dream. Now that the town of Clendenin has recovered and is flourishing, ANC is picking up the pieces and starting work on the Roxy again! Read more about the new Roxy which will be a state-ofthe-art theater and cultural center on page 16.
Speaking of Clendenin, have you met the new hometown owners of the Clendenin Brewing Company, Becky and Evan Harding? They reopened the brewery doors in June and have since added a new menu, bingo, weekly Bible study, book group, football tailgates, Storytelling Open Mic nights, musicians, and the new Elk-tober Fest on Oct 5th. They have been going full-speed ahead! See their article on page 22.
New recipes, canning and gardening info, health tips, awesome eagle photos, and more are all tucked inside this month’s issue! We love celebrating our community and hope you enjoy reading about the wonderful people and places on the Elk River!
Until next month, stay safe, my friends, and know you are loved!
Creative Director /
Editor In Chief / Ken Tawney
Cyndi Tawney
Operations Director / Josh 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
This month's cover photo features Evan and Becky Harding, proud new owners of the Clendenin Brewing Company.
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 BREWING COMPANY
304.548.9262
2 Main Street, Clendenin
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 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
FOX COFFEE COMPANY
(inside Elk River Boutique)
304.549.8778
14 Main St., Clendenin
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
GREEN'S OF BIG CHIMNEY
304.965.3313
4509 Penn. Ave., Charleston
GREEN'S OUTDOOR CREATIONS
304.533.1440
jerry@greensoutdoorcreations.com
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
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
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
4628 Penn. Ave, 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 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
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
WALLY'S SUPERIOR PARTS & SERVICE
304.935.2287
5100 Elk River Rd., N. Elkview
WEST VIRGINIA DEMOLITION, INC. (WV035021)
304.342.4004 office | 304.543.2338 cell jpickens2010@yahoo.com
XSPEC POWER
304.746.1139
Contact Emily Canterbury
YAK HOUSE RENTALS
304.941.2229
403 Elk Ave., Clendenin Reservations: yakhouserentals.com
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AT THE LIBRARY
LIBRARIES ARE MORE THAN JUST STORES OF BOOKS & KNOWLEDGE. THEY ARE THE CORNERSTONE OF NEIGHBORHOODS & COMMUNITIES.
OCTOBER LIBRARY EVENTS
CLENDENIN
Saturday, October 19 | All Day | FREE Admission
Charleston Convention & Civic Center All Branches Closed this day.
DATE TIME PROGRAM AGE
OCT 2 3PM STEM: Engineering Challenges Ages 6-12
OCT 3 10:30AM Storytime & Playgroup
OCT 8 All Day Treat Bag Decorating
OCT 10 4PM Kids Sew
Children 0-5
Families/All Ages
Ages 6-12
OCT 15 5:30PM Halloween Paint Along* Tweens to Seniors
OCT 17 4PM Harry Potter Book Day
OCT 22 5:30PM Halloween Party
Families/All Ages
Families/All Ages
OCT 26 11AM Machine Sewing Basics & More* Tweens to Seniors
*Registration required
DATE TIME PROGRAM AGE
OCT 1 6PM
Adult Craft Time – Decoupage Wooden Spoons Adults & Seniors
OCT 2 10:30AM Jump into Storytime
OCT 2 11AM Stay ‘n Play
Children 0-5
Children 0-5
OCT 2 1:30PM Memory Café Seniors
OCT 7 5:30PM Full STEM Ahead: Domino Chain Reactions Families/K-12
OCT 8 2PM Adult Craft – Decoupage Wooden Spoons Adults & Seniors
OCT 9 10:30AM Jump into Storytime
OCT 9 11AM Stay ‘n Play
OCT 10 2:30PM Drop-in Ghostly Family Portraits
OCT 15 2PM Elk Valley Book Group
OCT 15 5PM Family Flannel Fall Fest
Children 0-5
Children 0-5
Families/All Ages
Adults & Seniors
Families/All Ages
OCT 21 6PM Teen Time: Halloween Party! Teens
OCT 22 6PM Adult Play Group – Trivia and Games
OCT 23 10:30AM Jump into Storytime
OCT 23 11AM Stay ‘n Play
Adults & Seniors
Children 0-5
Children 0-5
OCT 28 5:30PM Families Paint: Ghostly Ghoul* Families/K-12
OCT 30 10:30AM Littles’ Monster Mash Trick-or-Treat
Children 0-5
*Registration required
ELK’S COOKBOOK
CAST A SPELL CHICKEN
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.
This recipe was one of my first recipes after Gar and I were married. It was in a magazine ad for Kraft Parmesan Cheese (yes, in the plastic container with the green shaker lid), and what can I say except it’s yum!
It’s a great dish for a week-night dinner, dinner parties, or to take to a friend’s home when they need a meal brought in. Everyone always loves it and asks for the recipe. So this Halloween, delight your family with this ghoulish delightful recipe!
CAST A SPELL CHICKEN
From the Kitchen of Gabi Strickland Walker
INGREDIENTS
• 2 lbs b/s chicken breasts (about 4-6 breasts)
• 1 stick butter - melted
• ½ C grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ C Italian bread crumbs
• 1 t dried oregano
• 1 t dried parsley
• 1 t garlic powder
• ¼ t paprika
• ½ t salt
• ¼ t pepper
DIRECTIONS
Preheat & Bake at 400• | 30-45 Min
STEP 1 Preheat the oven to 400. Spray a 9x13 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray
STEP 2 Mix together all dry ingredients and spices on a deep plate or pie pan.
STEP 3 Melt butter in a deep plate or pie pan. Dip each breast in melted butter and then into dry ingredients, making sure to coat well.
STEP 4 Place into a prepared baking dish. Drizzle remaining butter over breasts and sprinkle with any remaining dry ingredients.
STEP 5 Bake for 15 minutes and then flip over each breast. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until golden brown and done.
NOTES For a 9 x 13 crock pot - same directions as above and cook low 4-6 hours until done. It is just as good but doesn’t have a crispy outer crust. It has more of a breading coating; still delicious!
Bringing Back the
25045 - A NEW CLENDENIN, INC. (ANC) is proud to announce that it has received two grants and two generous donations to proceed with the next two phases of restoring the Roxy Theater in Clendenin. The West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture, and History of the West Virginia Commission on the Arts has awarded ANC a grant for $75,000 for the next phase of rebuilding The Roxy Theater, coupled with generous gifts of $100,000 from the Dr. O. M. Harper and Ruth A. Harper Foundation and $10,000 from the Martha Gaines and Russell B. Wehrle Memorial Foundation. A second grant of $13,659 from the State Historic Preservation Office was also awarded to repair the crushed terra cotta sewer line.
These next phases of construction include removing and repairing the crushed terra cotta sewer line, replacing the currently-sloped lobby floor to comply with ADA standards, installing ADA-compliant restrooms, and building the ADA-compliant concession/ticketing/kitchen area.
The grants through the West Virginia agencies require matching funds. The matching funds for the state agency grants were provided by the Harper Foundation and Wehrle Foundation, coupled with additional funds generated by ANC. ANC is now resuming active fundraising to help generate the matching funds necessary to obtain the estimated 1 million dollars needed for the final two renovation phases of this projected 5-year project. The final phases will include ADA-compliant seating, theater and stage renovation, lighting, sound, and production equipment, and interior decoration in the main theater. When completed, the Roxy will be used for a theater and a multi--purpose cultural arts center in Clendenin, serving northern Kanawha, southern Roane, and Clay counties.
Dave Knight, President of ANC, said, “We are committed to increasing and assuring public access to the arts through the new Roxy Theater. We have been collaborating with the Town of Clendenin, River City Youth Ballet Ensemble, local artisans and musicians, Charleston Light Opera
Guild, and other performing art organizations and we are excited to make the restoration of The Roxy an asset to the community, both economically and culturally.” ANC plans to renovate the theater as a premier, multicultural center for movies; theater, dance, and musical performances; educational classes; conferences, and other community events. The Roxy will serve a vital role in promoting cultural events on the Elk River and stimulating increased traffic to benefit the local businesses.
The organization had begun revitalizing the Roxy in 2015. “The roof was falling in and it had a tree growing up through it--the building was in terrible shape when it was donated to us,” ANC Vice President Scott Bird added. Unfortunately, the town was severely affected when I-79 was routed around the town, far from Clendenin’s city limits. The theater eventually closed in 2000 and sat empty until it was eventually gifted to ANC in 2015.
ANC had spent $249,000 and restored the exterior front facade, replaced the roof and repaired the crumbling back wall of the building. They were in the process of restoring the inside of the building when The Flood of 2016 completely wiped out all of the interior progress and some of its utility services. “Our progress on the Roxy, our town, our lives--everything came to a standstill,” said Bird. “Rebuilding our town became the number one priority and the Roxy was put on the back burner.”
Bird, who is also the Chairman of the Roxy Committee, added, “ANC is excited to be back on track. These new
After flood (2016) demolition in the theater seating area.
grants and donations make it possible to resurrect our plans, enhance them, and make Bringing Back the Roxy a reality.”
The historic Roxy was built in the early 1930s and at one time was a popular movie theater in Clendenin with 280 seats. In the early years, many theaters were named Roxy after the famous New York Roxy manager and radio host, Roxy Rothafel. The word Roxy came to be synonymous with the latest and best in showmanship, inspiring many “roxy” theaters across North America (the historic roxy theatre.org).
Today, the Roxy Theater is listed as a historical property in the Clendenin Historic District on the National Register of Historic Places. Its architectural classification includes late 19th and 20th century revival, classical revival, colonial revival, late Gothic revival, commercial style modern movements and art deco.
Many of the buildings in Clendenin are constructed of brick and feature heavy cornices, brick corbelling, and vernacular builders facades. The old Clendenin State Bank and the Farmers and Citizens Bank were located
After flood (2016) demolition in the concession area.
prominently on the town’s major corners. The Roxy was located across the street from the Monarch Hotel which housed many oil, gas, and rail passengers during that era. All of these historical buildings represent Clendenin’s legacy and are on the National Register of Historic Places. (livingplaces.com)
The Roxy needs your help! If you are interested in helping restore the Roxy, please consider making a tax-deductible charitable donation. Scan the QR Code below to make a direct donation via PayPal. You can also mail your donation to P.O.Box 421, Clendenin, WV 25045.
Historic photo of Roxy on Maywood.
NEW OWNERS ON TAP!
Evan and Becky Harding haven’t missed a beat since they bought the Clendenin Brewing Company located on 2 Main Street. They closed the sale and immediately reopened the brewery doors in June in time for Clendenin’s Summerfest. Since that day, the Brewing Company has made significant changes, including extended hours and a full line-up of new beverages, food, and events.
PHOTOS BY SCOTT ABBOTT AND EVAN AND BECKY HARDING
The torch was passed to the Hardings from Elk River locals Matt and Nikki Holbert whose vision offered a rebirth for the old F&C bank building in 2018 as part of the revitalization of the Town of Clendenin.
Evan is originally from Lost Creek, WV, and he and Becky resided in Cincinnati, Ohio for 15 years. He and Becky moved to Clendenin and became part of our Elk River community a year ago. Even though they originally thought they were just looking for some land for maybe a little vacation home, Clendenin captured their hearts. Now they are not only Elk River residents--they are proud Elk River business owners.
Evan said, “When you know, you just know.” The opportunity to purchase the Brewing Company wasn’t by happenstance. He and Becky had both worked side gigs as bartenders in Cincinnati so they had some experience. Evan was also a small craft-beer home brewer. “It was clearly part of God’s big picture for me and Becky, along with a nudge from Mayor Kay Summers and Town Councilman Dave Knight, and we couldn’t be more excited!”
The first thing the Hardings did was build a new 30-foot bar that is now the focal point and gathering spot when you walk in the brewery doors. Its smooth, concrete countertop and rustic wood finish creates a warm, friendly environment which is exactly what the Hardings wanted.
Evan loves the fact that, in Clendenin, everybody knows your name. “Like the TV show, Cheers,” he remarked. “And when people come in and bring their family and friends, they take the time to introduce them to us. If they were a stranger when they walked in, they certainly are not when they walk out.” It’s the culture of the River; they embrace and welcome everyone to the Elk River family.
The next thing the Hardings did was create a new menu offering a variety of delicious paninis. You can choose seasoned grilled cheese, ham and cheese, The Rachel (turkey reuben), Clendenin Cubano, or The Limited Edition–their weekly rotating, panini special. All come with kettle chips, dipping sauce, and petite dill pickles. Also, they have chips and appetizers available. “We wanted something unique for the brewery that wasn’t
featured at the local eateries in town,” said Becky and Evan. “We tell everyone to feel free to eat here or pick up something from The Elk River Baking Company, Paddlers, Giovanni’s, Blanch’s, Frostbite, the new Pizza on Main…anywhere here on the Elk, and just bring it in.” It is their goal to have a place where people can gather, bring their families, relax, and share good conversation. “People have even brought in birthday cakes and we all celebrate with them.”
Behind the bar is now a new lineup of craft beers on tap. When they first opened, they offered 11 craft beers and they have steadily increased their selections and now have 21 on tap! In addition to their own craft beers, new additions include Stone’s Daybreak Belgium Wit and Rhinegeist Franz Oktoberfest, which is one of their favorite Cincinnati brews brought straight to Clendenin. You may also want to check out their Braxton Brewing Company Garage Beer Lime, also from Cincinnati, or the new pickle beer on draft or the Charleston Nano Brewery Skittlez Sour. They just added New Trail Brewing Company’s Crisp Lime Lager on draft as well. Becky added, “If craft beer isn’t your thing, we also offer a variety of domestic beers, ciders, seltzers, wine, and soft drinks. There is something for everyone.”
Another major change at the brewery is its hours of operation. Since the Hardings opened the Brewing Company they have expanded their hours to 4-9 PM on Wednesday and Thursday, 1-10 PM on Friday and Saturday, and 1-9 PM on Sunday.
The new hours make it possible for them to also offer a full lineup of events. On Thursday evenings from 6:30-8:30 PM everyone is invited for BINGO and prizes. Recently, they had over 60 people for Bingo--it was a great time. Another popular, new event is Storytelling Open
"One big focus point when we got the brewery was to turn this into a place of community… all types of folks, events, and whatever might come. We have faith that we can grow into amazing things. We would love to be a part of life’s journey with you, whether it is Bible study, our book club, game nights, live music, or a nice craft brew.
- EVAN HARDING CLENDENIN BREWING CO. OWNER
Mic Night. Watch Facebook for dates and times. Oh the stories you will hear!
Thereare always good football games on the big screens so stop by, grab a beverage, and cheer on your favorite team. And by the way, the Herbert Hoover Huskie football game is on the screen on Friday nights in surround sound so there’s no reason you ever have to miss a game!
A new book club also meets in the taproom, so pick up their monthly book selection and join the fun! They will have a new book every month. On Friday, September 20th, they started with the New York Times Best Seller, The Fury, by Alex Michaelides. There is plenty of time to still join this month’s group.
Becky leads a weekly Bible study group every Wednesday at 6:30 PM in the taproom. She said, “Remember, you don’t have to be a Christian or go to church. You just have to be curious. Every person is welcome.”
Clen-Day Wednesday at 4 PM is also new at the Brewing Company. You get 50% off your first drink or food item with a receipt from that day from any Clendenin business! Shop, play, eat local, and enjoy the discount!
Also, let’s not forget about the entertainment both inside the brewery and outside on Main Street, where the Doc Harper stage is located close to the front door of the Brewing Company. Gage Shultz entertained the crowd in August at the brewery and gave an awesome performance. The Charleston Rogues Irish Jam packed the house at the end of August. Mason Adkins performed on the Doc Harper Stage at the HHHS Project Graduation event in September and he will be back at the Elk-tober Fest on Saturday, October 5. Glenn Shelton Music was a huge
hit at the Chili’N on the Elk Cookoff & Beer/Wine event. The Fender Benders performed on stage on Main Street at the Clendenin Lions Club Annual Fall Festival coupled with the Elk River Boutique Fashion Show, parade, and performances from the University of Charleston Band and the River City Ballet Company.
And don’t miss the new Elk-tober Fest sponsored by the Town of Clendenin on October 5 featuring Mason Adkins, Shane Meade, Josh Pantry & The Boys, and the Mikele Buck Band! It will be a full day of festivities from 1PM–7:30PM. including four live bands, craft beer, food, vendors, contests, crafts, German traditional chicken dance, and a stein-holding contest.
If you’ve been to the Clendenin Brewing Company since Evan and Becky took ownership, you already know they are on their way to realizing their dream come true. The atmosphere truly reflects the good things that are happening in Clendenin! In fact, you can pick up a t-shirt at the brewery that says just that!
Plan to stop by The Clendenin Brewing Company soon and be a part of the town excitement! Also, they are dog friendly. Junior, their pup, is a regular at the tap room, and he “paws-itively approves” of you bringing your dog along!
ELK’S JOURNAL
STRANGE AS THIS WEATHER HAS BEEN
By Ann Pancake
Meet West Virginia author Ann Pancake, recipient of many literary awards including the 25th Appalachian Heritage Writer-in-Residence award at Shepherd University and the 2023 One Book One West Virginia Common Read Author Award. She grew up in Summersville, WV, later moving to Romney where her father worked as a minister. Today, she is teaching at West Virginia University and serving as writer in residence.
In her award-winning novel, Strange as this Weather Has Been, Pancake writes about an intrepid mother determined to take on the secretive world of mountaintop removal and the coal companies that make millions at the expense of West Virginian families.
Amazon Summary
Excerpt
“Set in present day West Virginia, this debut novel tells the story of a coal mining family--a couple with four children-living through the latest mining boom and dealing with the mountaintop removal and strip mining that is ruining their hometown. The novel follows several members of the family, with a particular focus on 15-year-old Bant and her mother, Lace. Bant becomes involved with a young miner while her mother contemplates joining the fight against the mining companies. As domestic conflicts escalate at home, the children are pushed more and more frequently outside among junk from the floods and felled trees in the hollows--the only nature they have ever known. But Bant has other memories and is as curious and strong-willed as her mother, and ultimately comes to discover the very real threat of destruction that looms as much in the landscape as it does at home.”
You can purchase this book in paperback or Kindle format on Amazon or pick up a copy at your favorite local bookstore. Other novellas and stories by Ann Pancake that explore the people of Appalachia include Given Ground and Me and My Daddy Listen to Bob Marley.
When I was eleven, I got in my head I was going to a high school basketball game in Charleston. Mom told me I was not. Said I had no business going to some high school basketball game in Charleston, I wasn’t even in junior high, but I had friends older than me and that’s all they’d been talking about--the first time we’ve made it to regionals since 1962, everybody’s going to be there, we’re making banners, and Paula’s mom’s driving and taking us to Shoney’s beforehand. My mom said she didn’t care who was driving…But then three miracles happened, two for me and one for Mom. First I made it to Route 9 and had my thumb out before a single neighbor saw me. Second, a man in a Lantz truck picked me up and drove me all 75 miles to the Civic Center without a word about my age, my parents, or why I was hitchhiking. And third, and least surprising, given the time and place, the Lantz truck man didn’t do me no harm.
I didn’t get to the game until the last quarter, but I was there. After we lost, Paula’s mom took me home with everybody else, called Mom before we left once she figured out I hadn’t ridden in with them. I was the last one they dropped off, and it wasn’t until we were all the way down to just me and Paula in the van that I started thinking about what was going to happen once I got home. And I sure didn’t feel guilty. Just mad at Mom, it was her fault. If she’d let me go the regular way, I wouldn’t have had to hitchhike. Right here I decided I wouldn't let her get me.
A LAST LOOK AT SUMMER
FROM TONY WAYNE DAVIS & DEBBIE ABEL
These gorgeous butterfly photos were taken on New Hope Road by Tony Wayne Davis. As the Monarchs begin their long migration to points south of the border, these pictures are a remembrance of the bright summer colors before we transition to the fall with glorious golds, bronzes, and yellows.
Also, Debbie Kennedy Abel, HHHS 1971 alumnus who now resides in Morgantown, shared this beautiful photo of her zinnias. She said, “Zinnias are so dependable, even in a drought!”
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
HHHS TEAM PHOTOS
Thank you, Scott Abbott, for capturing our Herbert Hoover team photos. Last month we had football, golf, volleyball, band, and cheerleading. This month we are proud to recognize boys and girls soccer and boys and girls cross country. And a bonus photo--the girls XC took first place at the Irish Classic! Go Hoover!
HHHS Boys XC
HHHS Boys Soccer
HHHS Girls XC
HHHS Champs at the Irish Classic
HHHS Girls Soccer
EVERY ELKHOUND EVERY DAY
By Guest Author Kerrigan Young of Affiliated Financial and Affiliated Insurance Solutions
Elk Elementary Center is excited to announce the launch of a new attendance initiative called "Every Elkhound, Everyday!" This program comes in response to a troubling rise in chronic absenteeism across the district. Last year, 27% of Elk Elementary’s students were chronically absent, meaning they missed 18 or more days of school. These numbers are concerning, and Elk Elementary Center staff is on a mission to significantly reduce this number!
The goal of "Every Elkhound, Everyday!" is to foster a culture of consistent attendance, emphasizing the critical role it plays in academic success. Elk Center is committed to decreasing chronic absenteeism by at least 10% this school year. However, they can't do it alone. Elk Elementary Center is calling on local businesses and community members to partner with them in this vital effort. The success of this initiative depends heavily on the support from the local community, and Elk Center has already experienced incredible generosity from several local businesses. Their contributions will not only serve as incentives for students but also reinforce the message that consistent attendance is a shared community value.
Kami Lucas, Principal, and Melissa Harper, Social Worker, at Elk Elementary are working in connection with area businesses to raise awareness and get the community
involved. Three businesses whose generous donations have already made a significant impact are Affiliated Financial Group, Affiliated Insurance Solutions, and ANR Construction.
Principal Lucas said, “Randy Young, Kerragan Young, Rosemary Deyerle, and Wes Cogar with Affiliated Financial and Affiliated Insurance Solutions have stepped up in a big way, donating 10 wireless headphones, and LED lights. These prizes will serve as powerful motivators for our students to attend school every day.”
Andrew and Randy Young Jr. with ANR Construction commented, “The donations from Affiliated Financial Group, Affiliated Insurance Solutions and ANR demonstrate our commitment to the future of our community, ANR Construction also donated eight bicycles as prizes. Our support underscores the importance of teamwork between the school and local businesses in addressing chronic absenteeism.”
HOW OTHER BUSINESSES CAN GET INVOLVED
Elk Elementary Center is inviting other local businesses to join these three businesses in this important mission. There are several ways to contribute:
1. Donate Prizes: Gifts such as toys, gift cards, and other incentives can make a big difference in encouraging students to improve their attendance.
2. Raise Awareness: Displaying student-created posters or updating marquee signs in your business can help spread the word about the importance of regular attendance.
3. Participate in Events: Attend attendance assemblies at Elk Elementary throughout the year to see firsthand how your contributions are making a difference.
4. Support Health Programs: Contribute to programs that help remove health-related barriers to consistent attendance.
5. Engage with the Community: Talk to families and schoolaged children about the importance of attending school every day.
By working together, we can create a supportive environment that prioritizes education and helps every child at Elk Elementary Center succeed. Principal Lucas said, “Thank you to those who have already contributed, and we look forward to building even more partnerships in the future. Let's make "Every Elkhound, Everyday!" a resounding success!
Sat Oct 5
1pm to 7:30PM
Live Tunes & Brews on Main Street,
Live11am-1pm vendors set up 1 pm opening ceremony FOLLOWED BY TRAD. CHICKEN DANCE & STEIN HOLDING COMPETITION
mason adkins shane meade josh pantry & the boys The Mikele buck band
The first annual Elk-tober Fest is being held on Saturday, October 5, sponsored by the Town of Clendenin. The event will kick off at 1 PM with live bands, craft beer,
Four amazing bands will perform live on the Dr. O.M. and Ruth A. Harper Foundation stage on Main Street: Mason Adkins, Shane Meade, Josh Pantry and The Boys, and the Mikele Buck Band. The bands will start playing at 2 PM and will perform until the festival closes at 7:30 PM.
Main Street will be closed for the festival, so bring the family and lawn chairs and plan to spend the day at this awesome event. Clendenin Brewing Company and Paddlers will be open with your favorite craft beer and domestic beverages. Main Street only will be to-go cup friendly for this occasion.
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
1058 MAIN STREET, ELKVIEW
Clendenin WV
ELK REFLECTS
CLENDENIN HIGH SCHOOL
This awesome photo was shared by Richard Bashlor of the Elk River Communities in Kanawha County Museum. It features Clendenin High School in 1929 and the Big Sandy District School buses. Leslie and Terry Young commented, “We love this photo. We have never seen this picture.” It was definitely a hidden treasure.
You can visit the museum every Thursday, from 10 AM to Noon, then join the seniors for lunch downstairs! It’s a great day for fellowship.
MAJESTIC BALD EAGLES ALONG THE ELK!
PHOTOS BY BYRON YOUNG
Many people love to be on the Elk River Trail and Elk River Water Trail and often share their photos with us. This month we received these stunning bald eagle photos from Byron Young while he was on the Elk River in September. He said these photos were taken in the Mink Shoals area.
CLENDENIN TRAILHEAD UPDATE
Byron Young is a woodturning artist and exhibits his work at Tamarack. He also teaches woodturning classes at Cedar Lakes in Ripley. In his spare time he is an amateur wildlife photographer and captures some amazing photos. He graduated from Sissonville High School and is a retired veteran from the United States Air Force.
More paving has taken place on the Elk River Trail in Clendenin--the trail is paved all the way through town. Mayor Kay Summers said, “Clendenin now has over two miles of paved trail to enjoy. The new paved section extends down Maywood Avenue to the Town limits.”
ELK’S GARDEN
IN A PICKLE
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!
Pickling is a process of using acidic brine to preserve a food. One type of pickling is in a vinegar- based brine. Another type is salt-based. The pickling process typically affects the food’s texture and flavor. The resulting food is called pickled.
When using the vinegar-based brine, always use 5% acidity. I didn’t know there was any other until this year and I have even seen 4% acidity. Some recipes call specifically for white, red, or apple cider vinegar. Always read your recipes first to make sure you have the correct vinegar on hand.
Soaking vegetables in salt water draws out moisture which will actually help your vegetables stay crisp throughout the pickling process. Do NOT use table salt. Use a pickling salt or some recipes may call it coarse salt. I’ve read you can use sea salt but I’ve never tried it.
A basic sweet pickle recipe that was given to me by Frank’s great aunt is a Bread & Butter Pickle recipe. She added alum to make it crisper.
Remember to check the signs of the almanac before making sauerkraut or pickled beans. I have tried a lot of pickle recipes but I still haven’t found a dill pickle recipe that our family really likes. I’d like to find a good dill pickle recipe, like the hamburger dill pickles. If you have one, please share your recipe with me.
These recipes have been handed down to me and I have written them in a recipe book to keep for my children and grandchildren so they will not be lost. It’s a great tradition to start and share with your family, too!
SWEET PICKLES
• 4 qts cucumbers
• 3 cups cauliflower
• 1qt onion
• 3-4 green peppers
• Banana peppers can be added if you like them
• 1/3 cup salt
• 3 Tablespoons alum
• 1 clove garlic
• 5 cup sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
• 3 cups vinegar
• 2 Tablespoons mustard seed
• 1 1/2 teaspoons turmeric
STEP 1 Wash, slice vegetables.
STEP 2 Make enough ice-water solution to cover your vegetables by mixing ice water, 1/3 cup salt and 3 tablespoons of alum.
STEP 3 Let stand for 3 hours. After 3 hours, drain the mixture off of the vegetables and rinse well.
STEP 4 Mix the rest of the ingredients to create a brine solution; heat till sugar dissolves.
STEP 5 Pour over vegetables and stir until vegetables are coated.
STEP 6 Pack in jars well and fill with the brine solution.
STEP 7 Put on lids and rings. Process in a water bath for 15 minutes. We use this recipe for many different vegetables- cauliflower, squash, carrots, cucumbers or what we have in the garden. Our favorite is a mixture of cucumbers and cauliflower without the rest of the vegetables in this recipe. We use them in macaroni salad, chicken salad, tuna fish salad, etc. Pickled squash has become a new favorite this year.
SAUERKRAUT
Salt based pickling method used for sourkraut, pickled beans and pickled corn
(See ERL July article also)
• cabbage
• pickling salt
STEP 1 Wash cabbage, quarter, shed and chop
STEP 2 Place cabbage in crock or stone jar
STEP 3 Mix 1 cup pickling salt to 10 quarts water. Mix enough to cover cabbage. Weight down, cover and stir every day until it’s “pickled” (approximately 2 weeks)
STEP 4 Pack into jars ( not too tight); add salt water. Process 15 minutes
END OF THE GARDEN RELISH
From the Kitchen of Bettie Kee
• 1 head of chopped cabbage
• 4 chopped green peppers
• 5 carrots, sliced
• 2 cups green beans, cut into bite size pieces
• 2 onions chopped
• 4 ears of corn - cut off cob after cooking in boiling water for 10 minutes; drain.
Pickling Solution Ingredients
• 3 cups sugar
• 2 cups vinegar
• 1 1/2 Tablespoons pickling spices
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon celery seed
STEP 1 Put 1/2 cup salt over vegetables and soak overnight; drain and rinse.
STEP 2 Prepare the pickling solution and heat until the sugar has dissolved. Boil for 10 minutes.
STEP 3 Add lids and rings. Process in water bath 15 minutes.
PICKLED BEANS
From the kitchen of Lucy Newhouse, who is 93 years of age. This recipe came from her husband’s grandmother so this is an old treasured recipe.
• 2 bushel beans - string, break and wash
• pickling salt
STEP 1 Cook till tender (when beans mash easily) Do NOT overcook.
STEP 2 Drain & wash beans with cold water ‘til water is clear. Beans should be cold.
STEP 3 Pour 1/2 gallon cold water in crock-stone jar with 1/2 cup course (pickling) salt. Next add 2 gallons of the beans in the crock; Push down firmly with hands. Keep adding 2 gallons of beans and 1/2 cup salt till all beans are used. No more water is needed
STEP 4 Keep beans packed down firmly with your hands. Spread a clean white cloth over the top and down the sides of the crock. Weight down with a heavy plate. Do not let beans come out of water. The beans will be pickled and ready to eat in approximately 7 days (if not, keep checking until they are pickled to your taste).
STEP 5 Pack into jars and process for 20 minutes.
HEALTHY ELK
READY, SET, RUN! COMBAT DEPRESSION WITH REGULAR EXERCISE
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.
Imagine going to the doctor with symptoms of depression and she hands you a new prescription: Do two sets of squats, 15 bicep curls, 10 laps around the track and call me in the morning.
Though this is not (yet) an accurate picture, experts are starting to recognize that regular exercise is not only good for your mood but may help combat depression, too. For patients suffering from depression, it can be stressful and overwhelming to think about incorporating exercise into their lives either for the first time or after a long hiatus. Because the illness’s symptoms often include fatigue and loss of interest in activities, it can be difficult for patients to take that first step, both literally and figuratively.
A Physical Therapist can help! An individualized care plan starts with a thorough assessment and detailed patient history so the PT can capture the limitations and understand the goals the patient would like to achieve. Each custom treatment plan includes some combination of flexibility, strength, coordination and balance
exercises designed to achieve optimal physical function. You don’t have to have depression to reap the benefits of exercise. In fact, this mood-boosting pastime can help anyone who might be temporarily sad or otherwise not themselves. Major life stressors—divorce, loss of a job, or death—are difficult for anyone and regular exercise is a great way to help people through a tough time.
WITH REGULAR EXERCISE, YOU’RE GUARANTEED TO SEE IMPROVEMENTS IN THE FOLLOWING AREAS:
• Strength and flexibility
Sleep
Memory
Self-confidence
Energy
Mood
Even minimal changes in any of these areas could change your outlook on the day and your ability to participate in activities you once enjoyed. So, what are you waiting for? Talk to your local physical therapist and get on track for a happy, healthier YOU!
