Dreams meet plans.
Hello & Welcome Back!
As we wrap up another year, it’s incredible to reflect on how far we’ve come. Back in December 2018, we launched our first 28-page issue, just testing the waters to see how it would resonate. Now, seven years later, Elk River Living has become a cherished part of this community—a way to celebrate and share the authenticity that thrives along the Elk River. From businesses and organizations to schools and neighbors, this is a place we proudly call home, and we’re honored to tell its story.
This month, we shine the spotlight on The Shop class at Herbert Hoover High School. Instructor Tim Meyer couldn’t have said it better: “This program is so successful because of the kids on the Elk River.” Their exceptional craftsmanship and dedication have built a glowing reputation, one project at a time. Be sure to check out their inspiring story in this issue.
On the business side, Fox Coffee Company LLC is brewing up holiday cheer with a new lineup of specialty holiday drinks. Just the names are enough to spark the holiday spirit! Owner Lisa Fox started Little Fox Fashions in 2006, took a leap of faith in 2022, and opened Elk River Boutique on Main Street in Clendenin. After moving to a larger space, the building revealed its own surprise: a perfect counter space for a coffee shop. Locals asked, and Lisa delivered! Now Fox Coffee Company is spreading joy with every beverage. Read all about this delightful gem and don’t forget to grab a gift certificate—it’s guaranteed to make the “nice list” this year.
No matter how you’re celebrating the season, know that you’re always welcome here in the Elk River community. Pull up a chair, stay a while, and let the warmth and kindness of this special place embrace you. It’s more than a community—it’s home.
From our hearts to yours, Merry Christmas! Take a moment to share extra hugs with neighbors, family, and friends. After all, love and our Elk River connection are the greatest gifts of all.
Editor In Chief /
Creative Director /
Cyndi Tawney
Operations Director / Josh Tawney
Ken Tawney
Printer / The Printing Press
Charleston, WV
Layout & Design / Katheryne E. Popp
Little Secret Design Co.
Photographer / Scott Abbott
Scott Abbott Photo
ON
THE COVER
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
Cover illustration designed by Joshua Tawney, ERL Creative Director
Aubrie Abbott
Tim Cunningham
Scott Abbott
Janet Six Jill Moles Mullins
J. Craig Allison
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
BOXDROP MATTRESS & FURNITURE OUTLET
304.590.6094
2777 Penn. Ave., Charleston
BRANNON'S AUTO
304.935.2335
4039 Penn. Ave., Charleston
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 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
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
GIVE OUR SPONSORS THE OPPORTUNITY TO HAVE YOUR BUSINESS, they care a great deal about you and the Elk River community!
NALU’S STYLE STUDIO LLC
304.343.2049
2777 Penn. Ave., Charleston
PADDLERS BAR & GRILL
681.230.2061
12 Maywood Ave., W. Clendenin
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
ROGERS HARDWARE
304.965.1077
Bill Rogers
RODNEY LOFTIS & SON
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
304.342.8200 & on Facebook 95 Casdorph Rd., Charleston & THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR WONDERFUL SPONSORS & SUPPORTERS!
Merry Christmas
AT THE LIBRARY
LIBRARIES ARE MORE THAN JUST STORES OF BOOKS & KNOWLEDGE. THEY ARE THE CORNERSTONE OF NEIGHBORHOODS & COMMUNITIES.
DECEMBER LIBRARY EVENTS
CLENDENIN
ELKVIEW
DEC 4 3PM
DEC 5 1PM
DEC 5 4PM
DEC 10 5:30PM
DEC 12 All day
DEC 14 Noon
DEC 17 3PM
DEC 31 11AM
DATE TIME TIME PROGRAM
STEM: Christmas Magic
Storytime and Playgroup
Christmas Ornament Workshop
Light Up Tree Paint Along
National Cocoa Day
Holiday Open House
Holiday Slime Time
Noon Year's Eve Party
6-12
Children 0-5
Families/All Ages
Tweens, Teens, Adults & Seniors
Families/All Ages
Families/All Ages
6-12
Families/All Ages
DATE
Dec 2 5:30PM
Dec 4 10:30AM
Dec 4 11AM
Dec 4 1:30PM
Dec 5 2:30PM
Dec 9 6PM
Dec 11 10:30AM
Dec 16 6PM
Dec 18 10:30AM
Dec 19 5:30PM
Dec 30 2PM
Elf Academy
Jump into Storytime
Stay ‘n Play
Memory Café
Family Fun: Crafts, Cookies, and Cocoa
Happy HULA-days HULA-baloo
Extended Stay ‘n Play
Teen Time
Meet Hercules!
Families Paint: Tinsel & Trees
Full STEM Ahead: Mission to Space
December Holiday Closings
DEC 23 - Closes at 5pm DEC 24-25 - Closed DEC 31 - Closes at 5pm JAN 1 - Closed
Families/All Ages
Children 0-5
Children 0-5
Adults & Seniors
Families/All Ages
Families/All Ages
Children 0-5
Teens
Families/All Ages
Families/All Ages
Families/All Ages
ELK’S COOKBOOK
EVA'S SOUR CREAM POUND CAKE
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.
Eva is my husband Gar’s Aunt Pam’s mother--aka Eva the fabulous baker! At Christmas she and Aunt Pam are always busy in the kitchen preparing fabulous sweets. This recipe is one of Gar’s favorites, and Pam also makes it with an additional blueberry cream filling which makes it one of my favorites as well! Those little pops of fresh blueberries just take the whole cake to another level of deliciousness. This cake has a crunchy crust, a dense-perfectly spongy inside, a little tang, and a slight coconut flavor--perfect! Give this a try this holiday season.
EVA’S SOUR CREAM POUND CAKE
From the Kitchen of Gabi Strickland Walker
INGREDIENTS
POUND CAKE
• 1 C Butter flavored Crisco
• 3 C sugar
• 6 eggs
• 1 C sour cream
• 3 C all purpose flour
• ¼ t baking soda
• ½ t salt
• 2 t vanilla
• 2 t coconut flavoring
OPTIONAL FILLING
• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1 C (+/-) confectioners sugar
• 1-2 C blueberries
DIRECTIONS
Preheat & Bake at 325• | 30-45 Min
STEP 1 Mix cream cheese and sugar until creamy and taste to your liking.
STEP 2 Fold in blueberries.
STEP 3 Pour half of the cake batter in the prepared pan. Add filling, spreading evenly around the middle of batter. Top with the remaining half of the cake batter.
STEP 4 Bake 325 for 1hr and 30-45 minutes until done.
Holiday Specialty Drinks
Bring on the YULETIDE SPIRIT
If you’re craving a cozy holiday vibe with your coffee or favorite specialty drink, Fox Coffee Company in Clendenin is ready to bring on the seasonal cheer!
Nestled inside Lisa Fox’s Elk River Boutique at 14 Main Street, this charming spot is the perfect place to shop, sip, and unwind with a delicious specialty drink or coffee (or two) and maybe a fresh muffin or danish to-go.
Elk River Boutique actually started over at 3 Main Street, where Lisa offered a free coffee bar for her guests. “Everyone loved it and kept asking for a full coffee shop,” she says, “but we just didn’t have the space.” Fast forward to 2023, when she found a bigger location, complete with a coffee counter ready for action—and just like that, Fox Coffee Company LLC was born!
Fox Coffee is more than just great coffee. Yes, they have their own Fox Coffee Grind (1-lb. bags in Espresso, House Blend, and Decaf!), but they also serve up an impressive range of specialty drinks, including kid-friendly options, flavored waters, bottled drinks, energizing teas, Lotus Plant-Based Energy Drinks, and plenty of custom coffee choices, both hot and iced. With over 100 flavors and a variety of milk options (think oat, almond, coconut, and regular), they’ve got something for everyone. And if you’re watching your sugar, you’re in luck—30 to 40 of those flavors come sugar-free.
One of the latest holiday treats at Fox Coffee? Drink flights! Choose from the Hot Cocoa Flight, Frappe Flight, or Coffee Flight, each featuring four festive flavors to put you in full
Christmas Tree Donut Frappe
December Specials!
Peppermint Steamers
Iced Dark Chocolate Peppermint Fox with Snowmen
Iced White Chocolate Peppermint Fox
Christmas Tree Cake Frappe
Gingerbread House Frappe
Christmas Cheer Flavored Water with Cold Foam & Sprinkles
Cherry Christmas Energizing Tea
Hot Cocoa Flight
Holiday Frappe Flight
Christmas Coffee Flight
Christmas Tree Donut Frappe
Caramel Fox
Peppermint Mocha
holiday mode. Right now, you’ll find seasonal favorites like Peppermint Mochas and more to warm you up on a chilly day. And starting Monday, December 2, the Twelve Days of Christmas Drinks begins, with a new specialty drink offered each day through December 14—follow Fox Coffee on Facebook for daily updates, and enjoy these festive drinks throughout December.
Loyal patrons will love the Fox Loyalty Program, where your 10th drink is free after buying nine. They also have an easy Fox Coffee Co. online ordering app for easy pickup or curbside pickup with Kyoo. Plus, they’re launching a new line of Fox Coffee merch, from apparel and hats to soaps and body scrubs, making it easy to bring a little Fox Coffee magic home.
So, if you’re looking to relax, catch up with friends, or grab some holiday gifts, make your way to Fox Coffee LLC this December. Lisa’s dream of a cozy, community-oriented space for small businesses and crafters has come to life— and with Fox Coffee Company, she’s created just what the neighborhood was asking for. It’s truly the best of both worlds!
Christmas Tree Cake Frappe
Caramel Fox
Peppermint Steamers
Gingerbread House Frappe
Cherry Christmas Energizing Tea
Peppermint Mocha
TALENTED THE SHOP > AT HHHS
Step into The Shop at Herbert Hoover High School, where the students of the shop program, under the expert guidance of long-time instructor Tim Meyer, are mastering the art of craftsmanship and cabinetry. Every item they create showcases the skills they’re honing each day, turning raw materials into impressive finished pieces.
Visitors to Herbert Hoover High School are greeted by one of their latest projects at the main entrance—a series of painted letters that spell out "HERBERT HOOVER HIGH SCHOOL" above a stunning donor display featuring the watchful eyes of the school’s Huskie mascot.
Continuing down the hall to the commons area, you'll find The Shop’s newest project: a solid cherry pedestal trophy
case. Crafted by shop students Liz Turner, Kenzi Drennen, and James Anderson, this beautiful case is the first of nine that will ultimately showcase state championship trophies from HHHS’s many sports programs. "We wanted to build one case to use as a model for the remaining eight," Meyer explained. Currently, several groups of students are hard at work on the next cases, inspired by an idea sparked about two years ago when Football Coach Joey Fields and the team/staff visited the WVU football stadium. Standing nearby with Principal Mike Kelley, admiring the trophies on display, Meyer recalls, “Mike said, ‘Wouldn’t it be great to have something like this at the new high school?’” After settling into the new building last year, Meyer had the time to revisit that idea, and this year, they were given the green light.
These ambitious students are no strangers to major projects. Just this past August, six shop students completed a boardroom project for the Kanawha County Board of Education, building custom furniture that transformed the room. “Liz Turner, Zach Larch, Austin Taylor, Kell Taylor, Cadyn Holstine, and Max Moore worked tirelessly all summer to make it happen,” Meyer shared. “Their dedication was remarkable—they were ready to go at 7:45 AM each day, cutting, assembling, and never standing idle.” Together, they built a V-shaped conference table, podium, tables for support staff, a table for the assistant superintendent, and even paneled a back wall.
The Shop has handled many substantial projects over the years. Back when classes were held in portable units, they created a massive U-shaped table for the State Board of Education, measuring 25 feet on each side. Later, when the board relocated, they even requested The Shop’s help to disassemble, move, and reassemble the table! The board then asked for new tabletops and wainscoting for a large wall, for which The Shop produced ten 8-foot sections.
Another notable project came from a referral after someone from the Intermediate Court of Appeals saw the students’ work for the State Board of Education. This huge project included: a 17-foot judge’s bench, two lawyer tables with privacy skirts, an L-shaped desk, and a custom podium equipped to house a 50-inch television. They also built and installed the clerk’s window trim, a 35’ cherry bench on the 11th floor of the Judicial Tower, 2 lawyer tabletops, 4 auxiliary tabletops, 1 cherry podium, walnut wainscoting for the judge’s conference room behind the courtroom, and crafted faux courtroom setups for remote and hybrid hearings. Students Josh Stuart (graduated 2023), Lane Ramsey (2023), and Kole Johnson (2024) started and completed many of the main components during the summer of 2022, while other parts of the project were completed by The Shop classes during the following school year.
In each project, The Shop students plan, estimate materials, and submit bids—gaining invaluable realworld experience by managing client interactions and production timelines. Meyer describes it as a “win-win” for everyone involved.
Looking ahead, Meyer is launching a Plaque Division, where students will use Computer Numeric Control (CNC) technology and laser engraving to create custom plaques. "West Virginia-shaped plaques are very popular," Meyer noted. Recently, they crafted a large state cutout with “Clendenin” epoxied onto it as a gift for a retiring county official. "I wasn’t experienced with epoxy,” Meyer said, “but one of our very talented students, Austin Taylor (HHHS Junior), who also started his own woodworking business, AT Woodwork, taught me. It was the student teaching the teacher!”
Some students who have taken on a huge responsibility this year are Andrew Arbogast and Gareth Allen who are leading a group of eight students in the CNC field. Myers said, “Over the last couple years, I have kept really tight reins on the CNC projects and we have done a relatively small amount of CNC work. I expect our work output in this field to increase dramatically under their leadership.”
Also, Kalee Wiseman, Logan Burdette, and Brady Smith are currently working on a mahogany conference table. Meyer added, “It's an extremely difficult project, but Kalee is no stranger to projects like this. Two years ago, she worked on one of the most difficult projects we have done to date - an office wall at the School Building Authority office building that featured 45 panes of 9" x 12" glass built into the painted poplar decorative wall frame.”
The Shop’s portfolio includes, just to name a few, a cedar chest, wine rack cabinet, award plaques, a mahogany conference table, office furniture, a walnut and maple epoxy plaque for Mountaineer Gas, cornhole boards, a red oak storage cabinet, cutting boards, kitchens, and more. Those interested in project bids can contact Tim Meyer via The Shop’s Facebook page.
Up next, The Shop will return to the ICA to build and install 30 feet of bookcases, and the Kanawha County Board of Education has requested interior doors and a desk. “It speaks volumes when past clients reach out again,” Meyer said. The students take pride in their work, and if something doesn’t meet their standards, they aren’t afraid to take it apart and try again.
Reflecting on the program’s success, Meyer shared, “These kids on the Elk River have a tremendous work ethic. When people talk poorly about the younger generation, that’s not what we’re seeing here. If these students are any indication, we’re in for a stronger workforce in the future.” Meyer feels grateful to be part of their journey, finding it “so rewarding and refreshing” to witness their dedication each day.
ELK’S JOURNAL
THE LOST STORY
BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR 2024 EDITOR’S PICK
By Meg Shaffer
Meg Shaffer and her map artist, Andrew Shaffer, will be at Plot Twist Books at 209 D Street in South Charleston on Saturday, December 14 at 1 PM for a reading and book signing with her newest release, The Lost Story. Meg is a part-time creative writing instructor and a full-time MFA candidate in TV and Screenwriting at Stephens College, Columbia, Missouri. Her debut novel, “The Wishing Game,” was released in 2023. The Lost Story is a national best seller, inspired by C.S. Lewis’ The Chronicles of Narnia. Amazon said “this wild and wondrous novel is a fairy tale for grownups who still knock on the back of wardrobes--just in case-from the author of The Wishing Game.”
AMAZON SUMMARY
As boys, best friends Jeremy Cox and Rafe Howell went missing in a vast West Virginia state forest, only to mysteriously reappear six months later with no explanation for where they’d gone or how they’d survived. Fifteen years after their miraculous homecoming, Rafe is a reclusive artist who still bears scars inside and out but has no memory of what happened during those months. Meanwhile, Jeremy has become a famed missing persons’ investigator. With his uncanny abilities, he is the one person who can help vet tech Emilie Wendell find her sister, who vanished in the very same forest as Rafe and Jeremy.
Jeremy alone knows the fantastical truth about the disappearances, for while the rest of the world was searching for them, the two missing boys were in a magical realm filled with impossible beauty and terrible danger. He believes it is there that they will find Emilie’s sister. However, Jeremy has kept Rafe in the dark since their return for his own inscrutable reasons. But the time for burying secrets comes to an end as the quest for Emilie’s sister begins. The former lost boys must confront their shared past, no matter how traumatic the memories.
Alongside the headstrong Emilie, Rafe and Jeremy must return to the enchanted world they called home for six months—for only then can they get back everything and everyone they’ve lost.
Excerpt from The Lost Story
They’d been missing since May, vanished during an endof-school field trip to Red Crow State Forest. They were gone long enough that people had stopped referring to them as “missing,” which implied a temporary state of being, and now simply called them “lost.” You looked for missing children. You mourned the lost ones….
Before leaving the scenic overlook, Tom took pictures with his digital camera…He gave her the camera, and she clicked through the photos….Maggie narrowed her eyes at the display screen. “What?” Tom asked. She showed him the picture on the display screen. The falls behind her. The rocky cliff rising ten feet above her. And something else. That shadow of a man…
Still, when Tom said they should head back, Maggie said she was ready. She bent to pick up her water bottle, and that’s when she saw them coming down the hill. She stood at once and froze in place, hand up to warn Tom not to speak or move. “What’s wrong?” he whispered. She pointed. Under her breath, Maggie said, “It’s them.” And it was them, the lost boys.
ELK RIVER HUSKIES
A & B TEAM CHAMPIONS
Champions! ERL would like to congratulate the A and B football teams of the Elk River Huskies. Both were CHAMPIONS! The A team defeated South Harrison 31-14 and the B team won over Williamstown 24-13! Also, both teams finished their seasons 11-0 UNDEFEATED!
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
CONGRATULATIONS TO THE HHHS VOLLEYBALL TEAM – STATE TOURNAMENT FIRST RUNNER-UP!
A huge shout out to the Hoover Lady Huskies on an incredible run at the WV State Volleyball Tournament, finishing as First Runner-Up! The team claimed the AAA Region 3 Co-Championship after defeating Greenbrier East and entered the tournament as the #2 seed.
In their first match on Wednesday, November 13, the Lady Huskies took down #7 Wayne with a 3-1 victory in the quarterfinals. This win was especially memorable, marking Coach Anita Holbert King’s 400th career win—a milestone achieved on the state tournament stage!
That evening, Hoover kept the momentum going with a hard-fought 3-2 victory over Shady Spring. The next day, they gave it their all in the final game against Bridgeport, earning the First Runner-Up title after an outstanding performance.
The Elk River community couldn’t be prouder of your hard work and dedication—congratulations, Lady Huskies!
HHHS CROSS COUNTRY
Congratulations to Maysen Fletcher for winning the State Cross Country Championship as a FRESHMAN!! Also, a big shout out to Jenna Brown for earning First Team AllState Honors for the second year in a row!
Photo by WV Secondary School Activities Commission
Photo by Essay Media.
What an amazing season, 10-0. Congrats to senior quarterback, Dane Hatfield, for leading the charge! Speaking of leading, check out Dane’s stats--all recordsetting at HHHS: 5,970 Passing--58 TD; 5,459-89TD; 11,449 total yards; 147 total touchdowns; 36-7 overall record; 1 State Championship game, and 1 State Runner Up. Every one of the players have put in the time, the energy, and the grit it takes to be a winning
team! ERL is proud of this year’s great accomplishment. Exciting news: Hoover will host their first playoff game on a campus of Herbert Hoover High School. The Hoover program has had five other opportunities to host a home playoff game (‘94, ‘95, ‘96, ‘05, ‘21) but played the games at Laidley Field. The first playoff game date has yet to be announced.
HHHS BOYS SOCCER
All-State First Team: Donovan Brown. Honorable Mention: Kaleb Shaffer and Bryton Bennett
Region 2: Donovan Brown - Regional Player of the Year; Kaleb Shaffer, Bryton Bennett, Mason Miller, and Ryan Fitzwater. All regional players of the year will be candidates for the State Player of the Year and position.
HHHS GIRLS SOCCER
First Team All-Region and Second Team All-State; Goalkeeper - Payshence Lyons and Defender - Bella Haas. First Team All-Region and Honorable Mention All-State: Midfielder - Jenna Brown and Midfielder - Allison Casto; Second Team All Region: Forward - Emma Hanson.
Photo by Essay Media
2024 HHHS UNDEFEATED HUSKIE FOOTBALL TEAM
CHRISTMAS GIFT BAZAAR
HOSTED
BY THE HHHS CLASS OF 1971
Mark your calendars for Saturday, December 7, 2024!
The Herbert Hoover Class of 1971 invites you to a festive Christmas Gift Bazaar and Bake Sale at Elk Supermarket in Elkview. The event runs from 10 AM to 4 PM and offers a variety of delightful holiday gifts.
Each $20 gift bundle includes a cherished Class of 1971 Cookbook along with other goodies. All proceeds support the Herbert Hoover Trade Scholarship Fund, helping students pursue their dreams in the skilled trades.
Looking ahead, the Class of 1971 is planning a Spring Rummage Sale—stay tuned for details in our upcoming spring issues!
A BIG THANK YOU
The Clendenin Lion’s Club would like to thank everyone who helped with the Fall Festival in October! Spencer’s Hardware, Giovanni’s, Fox Coffee Company, Elk River Boutique, Poca Valley Bank, JSC Enterprises, Tony Matics, Pizza on Main, Blanch’s Family Diner, Penny Pinchers, Paddlers Bar and Grill, Clendenin Pharmacy, Pam Allen, Clendenin Brewing Company, Cantrell’s Florist, Elk River Baking Company and Frost Bite!
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
NEW YEAR'S EVE
Doors open at 7pm
Admission $10.00 per person (Includes Food)
Reservation required
Visit or call the Center at 304-965-3722 for further details and reservation.
SAT., DEC. 7 BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AT BLANCH’S FAMILY DINER
Bring the kids for a magical morning with Santa on Saturday, December 7, from 8 AM to 12 Noon at Blanch’s! Enjoy their delicious breakfast buffet and soak in the holiday cheer.
Diana Chandler, owner of Blanch’s, shares, “This is one of our favorite events of the year. It’s always such a joy to see the kids’ excitement when they meet Santa!” Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture those unforgettable moments with the big man in red.
Saturday, December 7, 2024
4pm–8pm| Main Street, Downtown Clendenin, WV
Come out and enjoy the evening on main street under the lights. Dress warm and bring your singing voice to join in with the carols!
Meter Decorating Contest*
House Decorating Contest*
Business Decorating Contest*
Christmas Parade* @ 6pm Tree Lighting Ceremony on Harper Stage @ 7pm Hot Cocoa, Treats, Music & more!
*Registration Required. Prizes available for 1st, 2nd & 3rd place in all categories!
Participating homes & businesses must be located within town limits
Winners of the Meter & Business Decorating Contests will be announced on Harper Stage on Dec. 7th
Winners of the House Decorating Contest will be announced December 21st
ELK REFLECTS the
DALTON'S DEPT. STORE
This month, we’re featuring a favorite Elk Reflects photograph: Clendenin’s historic Dalton’s Department Store, all decked out and shining brightly on Main Street. For over 30 years, Helen and Clyde Dalton were not only dedicated business owners but also cherished members of the community. They ran Dalton’s Department Stores in both Clendenin and Clay, always making it their mission to stock whatever the community needed—from women’s, men’s, and children’s clothing to a full floor
of housewares and décor. During the holiday season, their store was beautifully decorated, a true landmark of festive spirit.
Helen passed away on July 24, 2017, but her impact on the community lives on. Chris Cummings, a long-time resident, shared a memory that beautifully captures Helen and Clyde’s legacy:
“I always remember Helen and Mr. Dalton with their smiles and friendliness for as long as I’ve been alive. They always knew you, and my parents bought all of our clothes at Dalton’s growing up. She always had an encouraging word and was never seen without a smile. She will be missed by everyone who grew up in Clendenin. She left a lasting memory on so many of us, especially me.”
Helen and Clyde Dalton’s warmth, generosity, and dedication to their community will always be remembered, just as their store will always hold a special place in Clendenin’s heart.
THANK YOU AARP!
Thirteen more benches are now being placed along the Elk River Trail in Braxton and Clay Counties. These benches were purchased by the Elk River Trail Foundation with a $5,000 Community Challenge grant from AARP and are being installed by the WV Department of Natural Resources at locations approximately one mile from each trailhead. The project was inspired by a 90-yearold gentleman who often walked a mile on the trail at the Duck Trailhead. His sons went to find him one day and found him sitting in the middle of the trail. He told them he had to rest before making the trip back. The sons obtained permission from the DNR and built a small bench out of railroad ties so he could sit on it to rest. When the story was told, the Foundation thought what a wonderful thing it would be to put benches near all the trailheads, applied for the grant, and was honored with one of AARP’s major grants.
The Foundation had a celebration on November 16 at the first bench installation between the Gassaway and
Coastal Lumber trailheads. The event was attended by Braxton County Delegate Lori Dittman, Elk River Trail Superintendent Heath Cliver, Foundation board President Ken Tawney, board member and trail committee chairman Matt Lyons, board members Barry Curry and Jeff Skidmore, Gassaway City Council member Rocky ?????????, Gassaway Lions Club President ????, Elk Conservation District member ???? Smith, Braxton County Convention and Visitors Bureau executive director Andrew Smith, and several other community members and trail supporters.
That brings to 18 the total number of benches installed along the trail by the Foundation. Five benches were purchased with a grant from the Kanawha Coalition for Community Health Improvement and installed in Kanawha County by Foundation volunteers.
WOW! CONGRATS TO RAIL
EXPLORERS!
Over 16,000 riders have now visited the new Rail Explorers in Clay since they opened in June, 2024!! Visitors can take an unforgettable journey through historic Buffalo Creek and Gauley Railroad and pass Devil’s Sawmill Waterfall. All explorer vehicles are fitted with the 'REX Propulsion System' - custom built electric motors that make the 12 mile round trip journey truly effortless. This needs to be on your bucket list if you haven’t already been! For more information go to railexplorers.net and choose the Elk River Tour.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14TH | 7PM
Line-up starts at 5:30pm at Pinch Elementary & New Beginnings Church
DEER DECEMBER 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!
Photo by Nathan Stevens
It’s so hard to believe this year is almost over! Everyone is planning for Christmas dinners and parties, but we are still canning deer and preparing for butchering time. There are deer seasons until the end of the year.
Several readers have asked for my canned deer recipe, and I’m happy to share it again. Local Elk River hunter Scott Bird reminded us of another great reason to consider canned venison: “For many in the Elk River community, a power outage can spell disaster for frozen foods, especially treasured wild game. A single blackout could mean the loss of last year's hard-earned deer harvest—a heartbreaking outcome after countless hours of scouting, hunting, and processing. It is also a great way to save freezer space.”
This year we were very proud when our canned deer meat won a blue ribbon at the Black Walnut Festival.
CANNED DEER MEAT
STEP 1 Cut meat into small chunks
STEP 2 Place meat into clean, completely dry jars. Do NOT add water. 1/2 tsp salt per pint jar can be added. Put on lids and rings
STEP 3 Process in a boiling water bath for 3 hours. Make sure you keep boiling water over the top of the jars; Or you can pressure can for 90 minutes at 10 lbs. pressure. Always check your pressure canner directions.
Frank and I recently visited our Amish friends and she gave me another recipe to can deer. She said once you try this recipe, you’ll not cold pack deer again. She said it is much more tender. It is also good for canning beef.
TENDER MEAT CHUNKS TO CAN
- 16 lbs. meat chunks
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup salt
STEP 1 Boil brine and let cool
- 2 teaspoons soda
- 3/4 gallon of water to cover meat
STEP 2 Pour over meat in a stainless steel canner or in a big bowl or pan with lid). Let sit in refrigerator for 4 days
STEP 3 Remove from brine and rinse
STEP 4 Put meat into jars loosely
STEP 5 Add 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1 cup water to each quart. Put on lids and rings. Water bath for 2 1/2 hours. NOTE: She also canned Elk this way but she doesn’t pressure it.
One way she uses canned deer is for Deer & Noodles. She uses 1 pint of deer and 3/4 pint of water; season and bring to a boil. Cook medium wide noodles and then add to meat. Sometimes she adds cheese. She also makes BBQ’s like we do. Drain canned deer; heat in skillet; season with salt and pepper (sometimes I like to add onion flakes), and shred meat with a fork. Add your favorite BBQ sauce; stir and simmer a bit. Enjoy on a bun with fresh cole slaw. Another easy meal with canned deer is to drain deer, roll in flour and brown in oil. Eat with your favorite dipping sauce. This was our son’s favorite and at age 4 he named it Deer Nuggets. Our Amish friends want to try this one.
Deer jerky can be made just like beef jerky. Deer meat has less fat than beef. Our favorite jerky recipe was given to me by a good friend Vanessa Sanders several years ago.
DEER JERKY
- 3 quarts mixing bowl of meat
- 4 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 Tablespoons garlic powder
- 12 to 20 Tablespoons liquid smoke
- 4 Tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 Tablespoons black pepper
- 1/4 cup salt
- 4 cups water
STEP 1 Cut meat into 1/4 inch strips. Mix all other ingredients together.
STEP 2 Soak meat in the mixture overnight, refrigerated and covered.
STEP 3 Put toothpicks through the end of each slice and hang across a rack in the oven.
STEP 4 Bake at 150* for 4 to 7 hours with the oven door slightly ajar. Bake according to how chewy or crispy you like it. Meat can be dried in a dehydrator too (follow the dehydrator instructions).
I hope you and your families have a delicious Christmas dinner with all your canned foods.
HEALTHY ELK
KEEPING UP WITH EXERCISE DURING THE HOLIDAYS IS TOUGH.
FOLLOW THESE TIPS TO MAKE IT EASIER
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.
There are so many things to do this time of year like baking cookies, attending parties, shopping, and traveling. Exercise and Physical Therapy often get put at the bottom of the list. But if you're in physical therapy over the holidays, there’s a reason. It might be pain, a recent surgery, or just not moving the way you’d like. Any of these things will put a damper on your holiday season, so keeping up with your PT or exercise routine is important. Here are some tips to make it easier.
1) Planning. A chaotic schedule is part of what makes the holidays challenging. That’s why planning is extra important right now. Set designated exercise times and schedule your PT appointments well in advance so you’ll already have your appointments in your calendar to plan around.
2) Forgiveness. With the holiday mania about to shake up your routine, your typical exercise time may no longer work. Focus on good weeks instead of strict days and allow yourself to reap the joy of the season. Your mental and emotional well being are just as important as your physical.
3) Move your body when and where you can. You don’t always need a gym or equipment. Body weight exercises like push-ups, squats, planks and lunges can be done anywhere.
4) Find a workout buddy. Exercise is always more enjoyable with a friend.
5) Opt for shorter workouts that move the most muscles. Consider high-intensity interval training (HIIT). These workouts are effective and time efficient allowing you to squeeze in some exercise during a busy day. Even a 10-15 minute workout can have a big impact.
The holidays are a special time of year. Keeping up with your health and your physical therapy can be challenging during this time. But you don’t have to fall behind. With some planning and flexibility, you can stay healthy, survive the holidays and head into next year with good momentum!
