Discover the heart of home design in Big Chimney with Tim Hogans Design Gallery. This trusted local business provides passion, precision, and a personal touch to every project.
22
Building a Dream, Block by Block
16
“My dad had a vision, and with the help of our incredible friends and family, Eden’s Body Works came to life.”
--Doug Edens, Owner
Welcome to the seventh year of Elk River Living magazine! It’s both an honor and a privilege to celebrate the incredible businesses, people, and events that make Elk River such a special place. Every issue allows us to showcase the charm of our community, and we’re thrilled to kick off another amazing year with you.
In this edition, we’re excited to spotlight the new owner of a former Elk River business. Tim Hogan’s Design Gallery, a trusted name in quality flooring and home design, has expanded with the acquisition and renaming of Smith’s Carpet One, located at 4774 Chimney Drive on Route 119. This newest Tim Hogan’s location joins the family-owned DeWeese business, which now operates two stores—Big Chimney and Kanawha City— committed to enhancing homes across West Virginia with a personal, local touch.
Continuing the theme of family-owned businesses, we’re also highlighting another cornerstone of Elk River’s entrepreneurial spirit. For Doug Edens of Elkview, his journey is defined by vision, friendships, hard work, and gratitude. Eden’s Body Works stands as a shining example of his dedication, built with the support of countless individuals who helped make his dream a reality.
As we welcome 2025, let’s take a moment to honor the individuals whose dedication and hard work have shaped our Elk River family. Recently, our community suffered a great loss with the passing of Jamanda Rollyson Moore. Jamanda was a role model to our children and young athletes, and her unwavering love and leadership will forever inspire us. We extend our heartfelt thanks to her family for sharing such an extraordinary woman with us. May her legacy remind us of the power of selflessness and perseverance.
Stay safe my friends and know you are loved. Until next month…
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
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
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
FORD & SWEENEY
304.935.4801
4402 Crede Drive at Big Chimney
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
GIVE OUR SPONSORS THE OPPORTUNITY TO HAVE YOUR BUSINESS, they care a great deal about you and the Elk River community!
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
PAXTON BUSINESS SERVICES
304.343.5666
4628 Penn. Ave, Charleston
PEGGY WHITE, REALTOR
Old Colony
304.395.0619
PENNY PINCHERS
304.548.4005
11 Main St., Clendenin
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
304.342.8200 & on Facebook 95 Casdorph Rd., Charleston
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
LIBRARIES ARE MORE THAN JUST STORES OF BOOKS & KNOWLEDGE. THEY ARE THE CORNERSTONE OF NEIGHBORHOODS & COMMUNITIES.
DATE TIME PROGRAM AGE
JAN 2 1PM
JAN 2 5:30PM
JAN 8 3PM
JAN 9 5:30PM
JAN 14 3PM
JAN 18 All Day
JAN 21 3PM
JAN 23 5:30PM
Sensory Storytime
Paint a Bookend
STEM: Mystery Box
Book Binding Workshop
Kids Sew: Stuffies
Sewing Machine Demonstrations
Afterschool Fun with Spherobots
Family Brick Builders Club
Children 0-5
All Ages
6-12
Tweens, Teens, Adults & Seniors
6-12
All Ages
6-12
Families/All Ages
DATE TIME PROGRAM AGE
JAN 6 6PM
JAN 7 2PM
JAN 8 10:30AM
JAN 8 11AM
JAN 9 2:30PM
JAN 13 6PM
JAN 14 5:30PM
JAN 20 2PM
JAN 20 6PM
JAN 21 2PM
JAN 21 5:30PM
JAN 22 10:30AM
JAN 22 11:00AM
JAN 29 10:30AM
Elk Valley Advisory Board Meeting
Adult Craft: Faux Tile Mosaic
Jump into Storytime
Stay ‘n Play
Family Fun: Drop-in Board Games
Tweens: New Year, New Vision (Limited to 10 participants)
Adult Craft: Faux Tile Mosaic
You Want Me to Paint with WHAT??
Teen Time
Elk Valley Book Group
Families Paint: Glow in the Dark Neon Night Sky
Jump into Storytime
Stay ‘n Play
Discovery Play
JAN 1 - Closed for New
Adults
Children 0-5
Children 0-5
Families/All Ages
Ages 9-12
Adults
Families/All Ages
Teens
Adults
Families/All Ages
Children 0-5
Children 0-5
Children 0-5
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 of Walker Mt. Eats says this soup will fill you up and warm you up, too! It’s so easy to make and so delicious! Creamy, cheesy, with plenty of broccoli! Serve with your favorite salad and some warm, crusty bread to dip in your soup!
BROCCOLI CHEDDAR SOUP
From the Kitchen of Gabi Strickland Walker
INGREDIENTS
• ¼ C butter
• ½ C sweet onion - diced
• 1 C carrot - grated*
• 12 oz broccoli florets- chopped small*
• 1 ½ C chicken broth
• 1C milk (I used whole)
• 1C heavy whipping cream
• ¼ C All Purpose flour
• 1t salt (or more to taste)
• ½ t pepper
• ½ t Everglades seasoning (or your favorite multi purpose seasoning)
• Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or more as desired
• 2 C shredded cheddar cheese (I used 1 C sharp cheddar & 1 C triple cheddar blend)
DIRECTIONS
STEP 1 In a large pot over medium high heat, melt butter. Add in onions, carrots and broccoli. Cook to soften.
STEP 2 Sprinkle the mixture with the flour and seasonings.
STEP 3 Slowly add in broth, milk, and cream. Continue stirring and heating over medium heat until mixture has thickened. This will take about 10-15 minutes.
STEP 4 Once the soup has thickened, add the cheese(s) and stir until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve immediately.
NOTE: *I used my mini food processor to “grind” my carrots and broccoli so the soup was more smooth.
from a vision, friendships, hard work, & commitment
“What you do today has an impact on tomorrow.”
Alegacy isn’t just about what we build; it’s about the lives we touch along the way. For Doug Edens of Elkview, his legacy is one of vision, friendships, hard work, and unwavering thankfulness. Eden’s Body Works stands as a testament to the countless people who shaped his journey and made his dream a reality. “It all started in 1990,” Doug recalls. “My dad had a vision, and with the incredible help of our friends and family, Eden’s
Body Works came to life.” The shop sits on a piece of land that was once a sprawling pasture on his family’s property. Doug credits his parents, Jimmie and Barbara Edens, for their unconditional love, support, and belief in his dream. “I was just 26 years old, learning all I could while working at other body shops. When it came time to start my own, Mom and Dad’s guidance was invaluable,” Doug says.
The journey began with Doug’s father, Jimmie, breaking ground, leading the excavation with the same determination that had fueled his own ventures. Challenges arose early, such as diverting a creek that ran through the property, but friends stepped in to lend their expertise. Jimmie and Mayford Cox installed a large drainage pipe, and when the time came to pour the footer, Pat Bailey and his crew were ready with the concrete work.
Doug remembers the moment when Ralph Chapman and Jerry Dustin placed the first and the last block, completing the masonry work. “Those were celebratory moments— ones I’ll never forget,” he shares.
As the project progressed, the community spirit never wavered. Bert and Wade Huffman, Dave Smith, Jeff Ashcraft, Chick Moles, Brian Looney, Mike Sams, and others came together to tackle the roofing and carpentry. Billy Jarrell managed the crane work with precision.
When it was time for painting, Kenneth and Kenny Birthisel transformed the building inside and out, while Bill Gilbert ensured everything was illuminated, handling the electrical work.
“All of these incredible people—my dad’s friends, our friends—came together to turn a vision into reality,” Doug says. “They started in February 1990, and by September 1 of the same year, Eden’s Body Works was open for business. Without their kindness, hard work, and unmatched skill, none of this would have been possible.”
Standing in the shop 34 years later, Doug reflects on the journey with a heart full of gratitude. “It’s not about where you're located--it’s what you do,” he shares. “I am deeply humbled and incredibly thankful for the people who gave their time, their talent, and their friendship. They didn’t just build a shop—they built my future,” he says.
Recent back surgery has signaled a new chapter for Doug. Like many of us, he’s come to realize that he can’t do everything he once could. “I’ve always been a doer,” Doug admits. “But now it’s time for me to slow down a bit, to teach, to share what I’ve learned with the next generation, and to have faith in others, just as people had faith in me.”
Doug’s journey began with just $80 of materials on a 30day note—a small start rooted in big faith. “I didn’t have a loan to get started. My dad built his grocery store, Eden’s Grocery, and his excavation business the same way. He taught me that hard work, honesty, and taking care of your neighbors are what truly matter. I’ve carried that with me all my life.”
Doug still treasures his father’s original ledger, a record of a time when businesses trusted their customers, and communities supported one another. “That’s the spirit I’ve tried to carry on in my shop—doing my best to take care of people and providing quality work they can count on.”
As Doug looks back on his career, his sincere indebtedness shines through. “You reap what you sow,” he says with a smile. “I’m proud of what we’ve built here—not just a business, but a community of people who’ve worked hard and supported one another. For that, I am forever thankful. God has greatly blessed.”
We seamlessly blend innovation with expertise, guiding you from inspiration to realization at every stage. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation. We offer financing options and professional installation services for your convenience.
Nestled in the heart of the Elk River community, Tim Hogans Design Gallery is a trusted name for quality flooring and home design. Formerly known as Smith’s Carpet One, the Big Chimney store, located at 4774 Chimney Drive, in Charleston (Big Chimney), carries forward a tradition of excellence, offering premium flooring options paired with personalized, local service.
Since its acquisition and renaming in 2022, alongside the Kanawha City flagship store, this family-owned business now proudly operates two locations. Together, they remain dedicated to transforming homes across West Virginia, combining quality craftsmanship with a genuine personal touch.
At the helm of Tim Hogans Design Gallery are Chris and Tracie Deweese, two lifelong West Virginians with a shared passion for home design. Chris, a CPA from
Chelyan, and Tracie, a graduate of the University of Charleston with a background in Radiologic Science, from Kenna, have been married for 26 years. While neither set out to enter the home improvement industry, they saw an opportunity to bring high-quality design services to their community and seized it.
“We’ve always loved home design and wanted to bring that passion to our community,” Tracie said. “When the opportunity arose to purchase both the Big Chimney and Kanawha City locations, we saw it as a way to grow the Tim Hogan brand while staying true to our West Virginia roots.”
As active members of the community, Chris and Tracie are committed to giving back. Whether it’s organizing recovery efforts after the 2016 floods on the Elk River or supporting local charity events, they are dedicated to helping the areas that have supported them throughout their lives.
The Big Chimney location of Tim Hogans Design Gallery specializes in a wide variety of flooring options, including hardwood, vinyl, LVP, carpet, and rugs, all selected with quality and style in mind. While the showroom doesn’t feature a kitchen and bath design studio like its Kanawha City counterpart, personalized design services are available by appointment.
“We saw an opportunity to offer a range of flooring products that meet the needs of homeowners and businesses alike,” Chris explained. “Whether you need affordable options or something more luxurious, we have choices for every style and budget.”
For customers interested in updating their kitchen or bath, the Kanawha City location is the go-to destination. With two experienced designers on staff, Tim Hogans Design Gallery uses 3D software to help clients visualize their space before committing to a design. The Kanawha City showroom offers everything from custom cabinetry to countertops and vanities, with solutions ranging from builder-grade to high-end custom options.
What sets Tim Hogans apart is the personal touch that Chris and Tracie bring to every project. “Our goal is to create a great experience for every customer,” Tracie said. “Whether you’re selecting flooring or designing a kitchen, we want the process to be easy, enjoyable, and stress-free.”
Unlike chain stores, Tim Hogans is a family-owned business where decisions are made locally. Chris and Tracie’s focus on building lasting relationships ensures that customers receive the best possible service. “We’re not just selling products—we’re helping our neighbors create spaces that feel like home,” Tracie said.
One of the key benefits of working with Tim Hogans is the company’s commitment to quality, both in the products they carry and the services they provide. Whether it’s a flooring installation or a full remodel, the Deweeses ensure every project is executed with care and precision. “We don’t just offer products,” Chris said. “We offer a complete experience. Our team is trained to handle every detail, and if any issues arise during installation, we can resolve them quickly to keep the job on track.”
As Tim Hogans Design Gallery continues to grow, Chris and Tracie remain focused on helping their customers make their homes more beautiful and functional. From innovative flooring options to custom kitchen and bath designs, their goal is to provide high-quality, personalized solutions for every style and budget.
"We’re excited to continue serving the people of the Elk River and Kanawha City. Our business is built on relationships, and we look forward to helping our neighbors create homes they love.
– TRACIE DEWEESE
Whether you’re looking to transform your home with stunning flooring or design the kitchen or bath of your dreams, Tim Hogans Design Gallery is the place to go. Visit the Big Chimney location today and experience the difference of working with a team that understands your needs and treats you like family.
BIG CHIMNEY
4774 Chimney Drive, Charleston, WV 25302 (304) 965-7111 LOCATIONS
KANAWHA CITY
3900 MacCorkle Ave SE, Charleston, WV 25304 (304) 925-0300
Lisa Kwong is the author of Becoming AppalAsian (Glass Lyre Press, 2022) and a member of the Affrilachian Poets.
Born and raised in Radford, Virginia, Kwong identifies as AppalAsian, an Asian from Appalachia.
A first-generation college student, she earned her B.A. in English from Appalachian State University and holds an M.F.A. in poetry from Indiana University (IU). Her poem "Searching For Wonton Soup" was Sundress Publications' 2019 Poetry Broadside Contest Winner, and her work has been nominated for the Weatherford Award in Poetry, Pushcart Prize, and Best of the Net. Her poems have appeared in About Place Journal, Women Speak, Best New Poets, A Literary Field Guide to Southern Appalachia, Pine Mountain Sand & Gravel, Anthology of Appalachian Writers, Still: The Journal, Naugatuck River Review, Appalachian Heritage, Pluck!, The Sleuth, and other publications.
Kwong is also a multidisciplinary educator. She has taught courses in Asian American studies, creative writing, English composition, and student success at IU and Ivy Tech Community College in Bloomington, Indiana.
Excerpt
On the 42nd Anniversary of My Father's Swim From China, 10.17.2015
Suspended between shores, you watch your friends tire, disappear beneath bluish-black waters, never to resurface. When you agreed to swim together, you promised to keep going, even if some could not go on. Someone must reach the shore of freedom. This journey must not be in vain.
You keep swimming, your family's voices echoing from the home you left, your son and daughter's faces etched on clouds. Your limbs grow heavier after the first hour. You keep time by the shifting sky, one arm, one leg, moving after the other, strong strokes slicing cold Tai Pang Bay. Salt slides from yaour eyelashes, the sun is a blinking siren.
Spotting a shark fin in the distance, you quiet your strokes, your eyes still on Hong Kong. Even the fear of being eaten alive cannot
stop you. You want to live to see your babies grow up, to grow old with your wife. You must succeed, as a man,as the head of your family. You keep swimming, believe your blood father is watching, the father you never knew.
You must keep swimming to rewrite history. His early death will not be yours. You will live, even though your legs feel like sacks of rice. You believe there is something stronger than exhaustion. This is why you continue to kick towards freedom. This is why you won't stop until your feet touch shallow ground again.
This is love spanning generations of blood, red legacies that will survive shark bites, the ghosts of family secrets. You must keep swimming to reach the shore where you will be reborn, a tiger emerging.
The Elk River Soccer Club 12U girls soccer team finished with an awesome season. They wrapped up the regular season with an 8-0 record and were seeded number one in their tournament. They played four games in two days and won the championship 4-0 with a season finale record of 12-0.
There are several different teams that compete for the Elk River Soccer Club representing different age groups. The 12U girls team goes by the name Elk River Crew. The coach is Alicia Cunningham and the assistant coach is Jansen Mosier. Coach Cunningham was also named Coach of the Year for the Kanawha/Putnam County League!
Congrats to these amazing athletes for capturing FIRST place at The Bridge Invitational in Bridgeport along with several personal records (PR)! What a way to start the season with two first places! LADIES: Maysen FletcherFR; 200 Free - 20th place - PR; 100 Free - 16th place; Jessa Stout- FR; 200 Free - 4th Place; 100 Back - 2nd place PR; Chloe Foreman - SO; 200 IM - 3rd place; 100 Breast - 5th place; Peyton Greathouse - SO; 100 Free - 2nd place PR; 200 Free - 3rd place; Reese Holbert - JR; 50 Free - 3rd Place; 100 Breast - 4th Place PR; Willa Skiles - JR; 100 Fly - 5th place; 100 Back - 5th place PR; Jenna Stout -
Hoover’s Kendall Tucker has committed to the University of Charleston to pursue her academics and cheerleading for next year! Signed, sealed and GOLDEN. Congrats Kendall!
JR; 50 Free - 5th place PR; 500 Free - 4th place; Ashton Walker - JR; 200 IM - 1st place; 100 Fly - 1st place; Aubrie Abbott - SR 50 Free - 21st place PR; MEN: Michael SmithFR; 200 Free - 15th place - PR; 100 Back - 17th place PR; RELAYS: Girls 200 Medley Relay - 5th Place; Js.Stout/C. Foreman/Jn.Stout/A.Abbott; Girls 200 Free Relay - 2nd Place; R.Holbert/Jn.Stout/M.Fletcher/A.Walker; Girls 200 Free Relay - 3rd Place; Js.Stout/W.Skiles/C.Foreman/P. Greathouse; Girls 400 Free Relay - 1st Place R.Holbert/P. Greathouse/W.Skiles/A.Walker NEW MEET RECORD
Congrats to these Hoover volleyball girls for making the All State Team! Plaques created by The Shop!
Even though the WVSSAC AAA State Championship game on December 14 at Laidley Field ended with a 49-7 loss to Bridgeport, the Hoover Huskies had a perfect 13-0 season--just not with the final chapter we would have liked. This year, prior to the championship game, Senior quarterback Dane Hatfield had passed for 1,727 yards with 16 touchdowns. He had also rushed for 2,093 yards and 37 scores while averaging 20 rushing attempts per game. In the words of Coach Joey Fields, “Hoover has played football for 63 years and we have kids standing here in this locker room who have played for two state championships! Not too many who watch, comment, or critique the game can say that!” Congrats to a great season with amazing players, coaches, parents, and fans!
Photo credit: Tim Cunningham of Tim's Takes Photography
HHHS BASKETBALL
Your HHHS Huskies won their opening game of the season against Buffalo, 47-43. Riley Johnson led the team with 14 points, and Donovan Brown had 12 points and 8 rebounds!
1/3 KNITTING/CROCHETING
GROUP 6:30 PM
1/4 TRIVIA NIGHT
7 PM
1/11 MATTHEW MALINOSKI
6:30 PM
1/17 BOOK CLUB
6:30 PM 1/18 THOMAS DANLEY
6:30 PM
1/25 THE CHARLESTON ROGUES
6:30 PM LIVE MUSIC & EVENTS
Also, don’t forget about their ongoing Bible Study (Wednesdays) and Bingo (Thursdays) at 6:30 PM. Check Facebook/Clendenin Brewing Co. for more details and announcements.
2 MAIN STREET, CLENDENIN CLENDENIN BREWING CO.
FRIDAY NIGHT JAM
DIXIE HIGHWAY
STEPHANIE & THE BAND OF BROTHERS
RUFF CUT COUNTRY
RETRO 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 1058 MAIN STREET, ELKVIEW ELK RIVER COMMUNITY CENTER 1/3 1/10 1/17 1/24 1/31 FENDER BENDERS
There are mysteries in life we may never understand, and perhaps we’re not meant to. What I do know is that the Elk River community lost a beautiful soul last month when we said goodbye to Jamanda Rollyson Moore and her newborn daughter, Emelia. Jamanda was a shining light—a nurturing, kind-hearted woman who radiated positivity and poured her love into everyone around her. She brought boundless energy, strength, and talent to the Herbert Hoover Softball Team and touched countless lives in her time with us.
In my heart, I imagine her in Heaven, gently rocking baby Emelia and caring for all the little ones who left this world too soon. The thought of her tenderly watching over them brings me comfort, knowing someone as loving as Jamanda is there. It gives me peace to picture her holding them in the best hands possible—her own. Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the Rollyson and Moore families during this unimaginably difficult time. May you find solace in the legacy of love and kindness Jamanda leaves behind.
Jamanda Beth Moore, 35, of Elkview, WV passed away December 1, 2024 and was accompanied by her newborn daughter Emelia Jane Moore on their walk with the Lord. Jamanda was the daughter of Janet Rollyson (Anderson) and Jeffrey Rollyson of Clendenin.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents Clarence and Sandra Rollyson, Virgil and Wilda Anderson and brother Jason (Jake) Rollyson.
The light Jamanda left behind in everyone she touched will not easily be dimmed. A true friend and confidante who was a rock for many people. Her guidance and wisdom was truly remarkable. She was a proud Aunt to her nephews and niece who considered them to be her own and she loved them endlessly. Jamanda was a graduate of Herbert Hoover High School where she played softball, basketball, and volleyball.
She returned to Herbert Hoover in 2017 to assist Missy Smith with the girls softball team where they won 5 state championships and changed the lives of many players. She loved her softball girls and cared deeply for all of them.
Jamanda was a long-time employee for Cabin Creek Health Systems where she served as a Pharmacy Financial Administrator. She deeply loved her job and coworkers. Jamanda’s love for God, family and community was admirable and is evident in every person’s life she touched, and her smile can still be felt in memories she left with us.
In addition to her parents, Jamanda is survived by her husband Tyler Moore; Brother, Justin Rollyson; Nephews: Colten, Brayden, and Andrew Rollyson; Niece, Reese Rollyson; Dogs, Zoey and Bo; in-laws and more extended family and friends than could ever be named.
The club received certificates of recognition this year from Celebrating Healthy West Virginia and from The Elk River Trail Foundation. Make sure one of your New Year’s resolutions is to have a happier, healthier 2025! Join them every week at 4 PM and walk at your own pace. During the winter months, they pick the warmest day of the week
to walk! Text Jessica Wright Gamponia at 304.761.4251 if you would like to be added to their group text for meeting details each week.
The Club meets at the trailhead in the upper end of Clendenin. It’s a great time of fellowship and exercise.
By Laura Boggess Shafer. This month while our gardens rest, Laura shares with us a special story about her mom's cookie jars.
Little did my brother Richard know back in 1996 that the cute little frog cookie jar he snagged for Mom at an auction would kick off a collection that’d grow to over 700 cookie jars! My kids always loved scoping them out and counting how many new ones had popped up since their last visit. It was like a treasure hunt every time.
When we were kids, my brother and I spent plenty of Saturdays at the old Marmet Drive-In. Mom and Dad helped start the flea market there. Dad even turned an old school bus into a camper so we could spend the day selling stuff and stick around to watch the movie that night—if it was kid-friendly, that is. Those days are where their love of flea markets really got its roots. Over the years, they traveled all over, from home to Florida, hitting up markets, adding to their collections, and making memories together.
Mom’s cookie jar obsession started with that little frog. Once she had one, it seemed like they started coming from everywhere—flea markets, yard sales, thrift shops, and even brand-new ones sometimes. Family and friends caught wind of it and started bringing her jars, too. Even Dad got in on the fun, hunting down jars he liked. Mom had this sweet habit of tucking notes inside almost every jar, saying where it came from and how much she paid. I remember finding one note that said, “Paid $15. I know I paid too much, but I just really liked it.” Wouldn’t you know, Dad later found the same one in another color—her smile when he gave it to her said it all.
Before we knew it, those cookie jars were everywhere. Mom organized them into themes all around the house. My old bedroom became her holiday room, filled with Santas, snowmen, pumpkins, and bunnies. My brother’s room was all about his favorites—Winnie the Pooh, Disney characters, and jars with bears and bees. The older, fancier jars, like her McCoy ones, went into a special glass cabinet. In their bedroom, she had lighthouses, some of which lit up or made ocean sounds. Dad was especially fond of those.
Even the bathrooms weren’t off-limits! One had beachthemed jars, including a sailboat that said, “Don’t Give up the Chip.” The kids swore there was one that said, “SS Cookie,” but we never could find it. The kitchen? It was full of jars shaped like fruits and veggies—apples, peppers, strawberries, you name it. I’ll never forget when the kids used their Country Crock butter points to get her a cookie jar for Christmas. That was a big deal back then!
Her dining area was overrun with cat jars, and the china cabinet held characters like Sylvester, Tweety, Charlie Brown, and even the Wizard of Oz gang. The living room was for the extra special ones, like the Disney Castle Dad gave her for their 40th anniversary or the McCoy clown and a quirky zebra jar. Downstairs was a Coca-Cola lover’s dream, with Coke bears, bottles, and even a radio-shaped cookie jar.
The recreation room? It looked just like a ‘50s diner. Dad’s favorite jars were in there—ice cream cones that lit up and some that talked when you opened them. He loved showing them off to visitors. Even the laundry room wasn’t safe from the cookie jar takeover!
As Mom got older, she started wondering what she ought to do with all those jars. I told her, “Mom, just enjoy them.” So she did, but she also began giving them away. It made her happy to see others enjoy them. The vet who took care of her dog got a pepper jar, and she picked out jars for her great-grandkids: Wade got a cat, Marshall a green pepper, Kennedy the McDonald’s store, and Lee a cow jumping over the moon. She never got to meet Lee, but she made me promise he’d get his jar someday.
By July 2022, Mom and Dad had been married 60 years. They’d eloped as teenagers, 16 and 17 years old, and stayed side by side through it all. That Christmas, even though Mom wasn’t doing well, Dad made sure the whole family got together one last time. She passed away in February 2023, and Dad followed her on Mother’s Day 2024.
Now, I’m keeping my promise to her, returning jars to the folks who gave them to her if they want them back. My brother and I kept a few, but there was no way to keep them all. I took pictures of every jar and all her little notes, though. Out of 413 jars still in the house, two are waiting to be shipped to Australia.
In the end, it feels right. Mom and Dad’s ashes are buried together in matching house-shaped cookie jars she picked out herself, sitting up on the hill behind their house. It’s a fitting tribute to a couple who shared a lifetime of love, laughter, and a whole lot of cookie jars.
By Andrew Robinson, DPT at Elk Valley Physical Therapy.
He is a graduate of West Virginia Wesleyan College where he played collegiate baseball and earned his Doctorate of PT from Wheeling University in 2015. Andrew is certified as a LSVT clinician to treat Parkinson's Disease and is also certified by Titleist Performance to rehabilitate injuries involving golfers and other athletes.
New Year’s resolutions are often filled with aspirations of weight-loss and a healthier lifestyle. Losing weight, eating healthier, exercising, and quitting smoking/vaping are some of the more common resolutions.
If you are including one of these (or more) in this year’s resolutions, take some time to prepare and plan. Your health plan should include: where you are heading; why you want to get there; what challenges you may face along the way, and how are you going to work through your challenges.
CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL RESOLUTIONS AND A HEALTHIER YOU!
• The recommendations for a healthy weight-loss is a 500 calorie deficit if eating 2,000 calories a day. Just reducing 500 calories from your diet can make a big difference. You may find that substituting healthy choices for snacks can be a great way to start!
• It is often helpful to add exercise to a weight-loss regimen.
Sources: https://www.webmd.com/diet/calorie-deficit; https://www.webmd.com/diet/healthtool-food-calorie-counter (website to look up and track calories); https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise-and-chronic-disease/art-20046049
• Aiming for 1,500 calories is a great starting point! Get rid of foods that won’t help you realize your goal. Keep healthier choices on hand.
• The benefits of exercise include REDUCED RISKS in diabetes, heart disease, dementia, and cancer. An over-sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of developing chronic conditions and can lead to premature death. Talk with your healthcare provider and agree on an appropriate plan and realistic goals for yourself.
• Approach your healthy eating habits as a permanent lifestyle change, NOT A DIET. Try small goals such as changing how many times you eat out per week. Try eliminating one fast-food meal. Over time, your small goals will help you stick to your big goal.
• Use a friend or application to help stay on track! Your friends and family can play a key role! Let them know about your goal. Also, encourage them to eat healthy with you and even take walks with you after meals.
• Remember to start slow and make small changes. This is a lifestyle change, not a FAD. Document your eating habits, exercise, and your weight loss. Setbacks are not failures--they are just little bumps in the road. Remember why you want to make a lifestyle change and hold yourself accountable. You can do this!
