Issuu

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VOLUME 02 | ISSUE 01 | JAN 2020 FREE

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ELK RIVER LIVING 2 2

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Just a Pinch of Gourmet

If youâ€™ve driven through Pinch lately, you have probably noticed a new business, Just a Pinch, LLC Specialty Shop. They carry your favorites plus hard-to-find or organic ingredients.

Friends of Coal Cup and More Soccer teams on the Elk River have much to celebrate. Elk River has seen great growth in their soccer programs, led by good coaches with hard-working players.

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HAPPY NEW YEAR

Pet Grooming with Extra Love

New Affiliated Finance Group

Celebrating 1 Year Anniversary

When it comes to college planning, retirement or estate planning, Randy Young and Jon Matuszkiewicz with Affiliated Finance Group can help!

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CANTERBURY FAMILY KEEPS A DREAM ALIVE Xspec Power has achieved premier status with Generac for the last three years by selling over one million dollars of product plus High Level status with Briggs & Stratton and Kohler.

Beckyâ€™s Pet Parlor specializes in dog grooming, hair cuts, bathing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and actually, a little bit of everything, complete with a bow or a bandana as a finishing touch!

When two Elk River girls team up to start their own business, there is only one word to describe them: successful! Terra Bird and Beth Sizemore opened Seventh Boutique and Beauty Bar.

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JANUARY 2020

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

MAster CrAFters GiFt & PriMitiVes sHoPPe

MAster CrAFters GiFt Country&* PriMitiVes Primitive * FolksHoPPe Art * Victorian

shavonne Hale (304) Shavonne 965-6222 shavonneHale Hale

* Primitive HomeCountry Decor * Unique Gift Giving

Country * Primitive Folk Art * Victorian Folk Art ** Victorian Hours: Mon.-Wed.-Thurs.-Fri. 10am-6pm Home Decor * Unique Gift Giving

Home Tues. 12noon-7pm sat.Decor 10am-4pm

JANUARY 2020

Hours: Mon.-Wed.-Thurs.-Fri. 10am-6pm (304) 965-6222 Unique Giving (304) 965-6222 4802 Chimney Dr., *Big Chimney, WV 25302 Country Primitive * FolkGift Art * sat. Victorian Tues. 12noon-7pm 10am-4pm

Home Decor * Unique N on 119HourS: -Hale by Smiths Carpet One Bldg. ChimneyGift ExitGiving 5WV - I-7925302 shavonne Mon.-Wed.-Thurs.-Fri. 10am-6pm 4802 Chimney Dr., Big- Big Chimney, Hours: Mon.-Wed.-Thurs.-Fri. 10am-6pm Tues. Sat. 10am-4pm N on 119 -12noon-7pm by Smiths Carpet One Bldg. Big Chimney Exit (304) 965-6222 Tues. 12noon-7pm sat. 10am-4pm5 - I-79

4802 Chimney Dr., Big Chimney, WV 25302 N on 119 - by Smiths Carpet One Bldg. - Big Chimney Exit 5 - I-79

TABLE OF CONTENTS 18

Gourmet Shop Opens in Pinch

On the Cover: Carrying on His Legacy

It is a great shop, loaded with assorted, handpackaged containers of pasta, rice, flours, nuts, beans, seeds, spices, dried fruit, teas, coffees, drink powders and more! Even a Slush Puppie Machine and delicious hot coffee at 7 AM.

January 24 will mark three years since Rodney Canterbury passed. His family, along with the Xspec Power work family, is carrying on his legacy and looks forward to serving the Elk River communities for many years to come.

Pamper Yourself

Pet Grooming at Its Best

Celebrating their one-year anniversary, Terra and Beth are happy at how well everything has fallen into place. The boutique has grown even more, now offering lashes, brow, microblading, nails, and skin care services.

Welcome Back to Elk River Living!

Elk River Hero: Keith Mitchell

Our Valued Sponsors

The Elk Reflects

Events In the Valley

Elk River Soccer on the Rise

Jackie's Fried Spaghetti

This Month’s Reader Submission

Affiliated Financial Group is Here to Help

Elk's Journal: Eric Douglas

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

“I have always loved animals, especially dogs,” said Rebecca Briles. She opened Becky’s Pet Parlor in Pinch in 2010 where she and Kaitlyn Truman are both certified pet groomers, dedicated to your pet’s grooming and wellness.

Hello & Welcome Back! Does anyone else feel like you have run a marathon since you took the turkey out to thaw the last week of November? I don’t think I’ve stopped through midnight on December 31. Happy New Year and can I please just lie down and sleep for a week! Regardless of the hectic holiday schedule, there is nothing like having the love of family and friends to remind you what life is really all about. They love you regardless of whether you drop the ball or not. They pick you up and dust you off and tell you to get back out there. Thank Heavens they love you for better or worse. This month ERL is proud to feature three new businesses, A Pinch of This, LLC, Pizza Hut at Elkview’s Crossings Mall, and Affiliated Financial Group; two awesome existing businesses, Becky’s Pet Parlor and Seventh Boutique and Beauty Bar; great triumphs by our talented soccer teams on the Elk River; Clendenin Branch Librarian Tammy Parker and her 25th work anniversary, and the strength and determination of Emily Canterbury at Xspec Power to make her husband’s dream come true. Thank you for reading this month’s ERL. In this crazy world, it’s nice to remember the great people and businesses on the Elk River who never lose faith in each other. I am grateful for your love and care. Until next month, Cyndi Cyndi Tawney Founder & Editor 304.546.9243 cyndi@elkriverliving.com

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

Editor In Chief /

Cyndi Tawney

Creative Director /

Josh Tawney

Operations Director /

Ken Tawney

E L K RIVER

Guest Photographers /

Joe Hoover & Ken Tawney

Printer /

The Printing Press Charleston, WV

LIVING

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 featureâ€™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.

On the cover: The Xspec Power team in front of their business in Elkview. The Canterbury Family continues a legacy left behind by Rodney Canterbury.

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!

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Joe Hoover

This month Joe Hoover is a contributing photographer to Elk River Living Magazine. We are thankful for Joeâ€™s talent and love for the Elk River community. Joe is owner of Photography by Joe Hoover in the Elk Valley.

’s

OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES A CUT ABOVE, HAIR BY KRISTIN 304.389.3357 205 3rd Ave., Elkview AFFILIATED FINANCE GROUP 304.935.2230 4508 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston ACUPUNCTURE & HOLISTIC HEALTH, INC. 304.377.7892 Ripley and Charleston

CHRISTY CONLEY DESTINATION SPECIALIST christina.conley@crusieplanners.com 304.377.0803

ELK RIVER CHIROPRACTIC Dr. Scott Collias 4710 Chimney Dr., Ste. D 304.965.2458

CLENDENIN PHARMACY 304.548.5451 contact Bill or Lindsay Ore Matuszkiewicz ELK VALLEY PHYSICAL THERAPY 304.965.7979 COOP’S CUSTOM T-SHIRTS & DESIGNS contact Andi Geary, MPT 304.552.1020 contact Andrew Cooper

ELITE ROOFING 304.989.4792 www.eliteroofingwv.com

ALL SEASONS SELF STORAGE 304.965.7988 allseasonsselfstoragewv.com

CREDE TRACTOR 304.965.1666 contact William Crede

ALLEN’S LAUNDROMAT 304.548.7100 9 Main St, Clendenin

CROWN CATERING 1 Main Street, Clendenin 304.548.6999

APPALACHIAN AUTO REPAIR 73 Clio Road,Clendenin 304.548.5730

DEAN JEFFRIES, STATE FARM 304.965.6661 85 Credes Landing, Elkview

BECKY’S PET PARLOR 304.951.9162 Rebecca Briles & Kaitlyn Truman

DR. ANGELA B. ARMSTEAD, DDS 3414 Pennsylvania Ave. 304.343.2151

BILL’S USED CARS Rt 119 Elk River Road 304.548.4727

DR. JOHN RICHARDS 4710 Chimney Dr., Ste. H 304.935.2513

BLUE CREEK HEATING & COOLING 304.965.9148 contact Bill Ross or Roy Crist

EDENS BODY WORKS, INC. 102 Neville Rd, Elkview 304.965.5900

BOWEN DENTAL Chas: 304.342.0146 / Clay: 304.587.7495 contact Stacy or Gary Bowen II

ELK FAMILY DENTISTRY 304.965.6661 contact Joey Adkins, DDS

BRIAR PATCH FARM 304.541.4555 Clendenin, WV

ELK RIVER AUTOMOTIVE 304.965.7501 contact Gary W. Pauley II

HAFER FUNERAL HOME & MYER’S CHAPEL 304.965.3331 / 304.965.3341 haferfuneralhome.net

CANTRELL’S FLORIST 304.548.7700 7484 Elk River Rd, Clendenin

ELK RIVER AUTO. SUPPLY 304.965.5312 contact Glenn Pauley

HEADHUNTERS STYLING CO. 304.343.2049 check them out on Facebook

There’s no place like home!

ELKVIEW INSURANCE 304.965.7033 www.whiteinsurance.com FAZIO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 304.344.3071 1008 Bullitt St., Charleston, WV 25301 FORD AND SWEENEY 304.935.4801 51 Crede's Landing, Elkview GABBY’S SEWING & MORE 304.437.3739 gabbyssewingwv.com GINO’S PIZZA & SPAGHETTI HOUSE 304.965-7031 Order online at ginospizza.com GIOVANNI’S - CLENDENIN 304.548.7002 giovannispizzapower.com

Please

GIVE OUR SPONSORS THE OPPORTUNITY TO HAVE YOUR BUSINESS.

They care a great deal about you and the

Elk River Community.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO ADVERTISE WITH ELK RIVER LIVING? PLEASE CONTACT CYNDI@ELKRIVERLIVING.COM OR 304.546.9243 OR VISIT US AT ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

JEFF’S AUTO & TOWING 304.965.7525 22 Quick Rd, Pinch JETT’S AUTO AND TOWING, LLC 681.230.2508 103 Cobb Loop, Clendenin JETT’S CONSTRUCTION, LLC 304.565.7053 Newton, WV JOHN WANNER MOSES AUTO GROUP 304.741.3404 JONES AUTO 304.965.6180 jonesautotruckrepair@gmail.com JONES EXCAVATING 304.965.6180 jonesexcavatingofcharleston.com JULIO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 304.548.4625 12 Main St, Clendenin KAMINSKI LAW, PLLC 304.344.0444 www.kamlawwv.com KNIGHT INSURANCE 304.548.4726 knightinsurance@frontier.com KNIGHTHORST 877.474.7332 www.knighthorst.com MARA BOGGS ELLIS OLD COLONY REALTORS 304.541.7336/304.344.2581 maraellis.com MASTER CRAFTERS GIFT & PRIMITIVES SHOPPE 304.965.6222 Facebook: Master Crafters Gift & Primitive Shoppe

MATICS FUNERAL HOME 304.548.6611 maticsfuneralhome.com MEADOWBROOK ACRES NURSING CENTER 877.474.7332 www.meadowbrookacres.net MICHAEL’S UNIQUE STYLES 304.965.3605 michaelsuniquestyles@gmail.com MITCH’S 24 HR TOWING 304.965.6646 contact Mitch Young MOLLOHAN AUTO BODY 304.437.2195 2026 Waters Edge Dr., Elkview MOMMA PAYNE’S DINER 304.543.9930 14 Main St, Clendenin MOSS TREE SERVICE LLC 304.965.8095 www.mosstreeservice.com MOUNTAINEER AUCTION 304.548.4056 contact Roger Mullins MT. PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH 304.965.7062 mpbcwv.org MURDOCK’S AUTO REPAIR MURDOCK’S PRE-OWNED AUTOS 304.548.3255 murdockspreownedautosales.com

RODNEY LOFTIS & SON 95 Casdorph Rd., Charleston 304.342.8200 and on Facebook ROGERS HARDWARE 304.965.1077 Contact Bill Rogers ROLLIN SMOKE 304.437.2643 www.rollinsmokebbqribs.com SCISSORS HAIR SALON 304.965.5904 Contact Connie Barnhouse SEVENTH BOUTIQUE & BEAUTY BAR 202 7th Ave, South Charleston 304.746.7717 SLEEP INN HARDINGS FAMILY RESTAURANT 800.216.0661 & 304.344.5044 sleepinncharlestonwv.com SMITH’S CARPET ONE SMITH’S FURNITURE & APPLIANCE 304.965.7111 & 304.965.7600 Big Chimney & Elkview, WV SOLID ROCK CONTRACTING 304.444.4288 contact Phil Shaffer SPECIAL OCCASIONS 304.965.5434 specialoccasionflowers.com SPENCER’S HARDWARE 304.548.6995 8290 Elk River Rd. N, Clendenin

PAMALA’S GIFTS & TREASURES 304.548.7100 7 Main St., Clendenin

TAYLOR MADE FARMS 1484 SHELTON RD, BOMONT 304.548.7775

PENNY PINCHERS 304.548.4005 11 Main St., Clendenin

TUDOR’S BISCUIT WORLD 1083 Main Street Elkview Open until 7 PM starting April 1

POCA VALLEY BANK 304.965.7730 pocavalleybank.com

Xspec POWER 304.746.1139 contact Emily Canterbury

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

HOLSTEIN INSURANCE 304.965.9941 holsteininsuranceagencyinc.com

ALLEN'S LAUNDROMAT

7 DAYS A WEEK | 8AM - 8PM 9 MAIN STREET, CLENDENIN

CRE E U

Bill Ross Roy Crist 304.542.4128

HEA

304.548.7100

G & COO

304.541.3892

for all your hvac needs

LICENSE & INSURED WV#055448

304.965.9148

Pamala's Gift & Treasures LLC Pamala Allen, Owner

304.548.7100 7 Main Street Clendenin, WV 25045 mon. - sat. 10am - 6pm FIND US ON FACEBOOK!

CREDE TRACTOR SALES & SERVICE

4731 PENNSYLVANIA AVE BIG CHIMNEY JANUARY 2020

304.965.1666

WILLIAM CREDE

EVENTS

jan. happenings

01 02,16 03 6,13, 20,27 07 08 08,22 09 10 11,25

WINTER READING 20 MINS FOR 20 DAYS All branch libraries. All ages. See your librarian for more information Library CLOSED All Branches CLENDENIN BRANCH LIBRARY Jump Into Storytime, 11 am Playgroup at the Library, 11:30 am FRIDAY NIGHT JAM Elk River Community Center Featuring: NO REGRETS & Bill Wymer Doors Open at 5 PM; Thrift Store 5:30 - 8:00 PM Admission $5.00; Children 12 & under free HOOKS AND NEEDLES Elk Valley Branch Library, 6 pm

cyndi@elkriverliving.com

FAMILY FUN: ALL THINGS SNOW (reservations req.) Elk Valley Branch Library, 5:30 pm

FRIDAY NIGHT JAM Elk River Community Center Featuring: MARK IV & Stephanie Moore Doors Open at 5 PM; Thrift Store 5:30 - 8:00 PM Admission $5.00; Children 12 & under free

FAMILY FUN: DARE TO DREAM Elk Valley Branch Library, 2 pm

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TEEN TIMES: GAMES Clendenin Branch Library, 5:30 pm ELK VALLEY BOOK GROUP Elk Valley Branch Library, Noon

FRIDAY NIGHT JAM Elk River Community Center Featuring: SOUTHERN COOKIN’ & Steve Mullins Doors Open at 5 PM; Thrift Store 5:30 - 8:00 PM Admission $5.00; Children 12 & under free

HOMESCHOOL DAY( REGISTRATION REQ.) Clendenin Branch Library, 12:30 pm

ELK VALLEY BRANCH LIBRARY Jump Into Storytime 10:30 am Playgroup at the Library, 11 am

FAMILY FUN: INDOOR CAMPING (reservations req.) Clendenin Branch Library, 6 pm

FAMILY FUN: GINGERBREAD HOUSE PARTY (registration req.) Elk Valley Branch Library, 6 pm

Adult Crafternoon: Valentine’s Wreath (registration req.) Elk Valley Branch Library, 1:30 pm

TEEN GAME NIGHT Elk Valley Branch Library, 6 pm

FRIDAY NIGHT JAM Elk River Community Center Featuring: DIXIE HIGHWAY & Cindy Bird Doors Open at 5 PM; Thrift Store 5:30 - 8:00 PM Admission $5.00; Children 12 & under free

DISCOVERY PLAY Elk Valley Branch Library, 10:30 am

FAMILY MOVIE Clendenin Branch Library, 1 pm

FAMILY FUN: WINTER CRAFT NIGHT (reservations req.) Elk Valley Branch Library, 6 pm

FRIDAY NIGHT JAM Elk River Community Center Featuring: RUFF CUT COUNTRY & Phil Moles Doors Open at 5 PM; Thrift Store 5:30 - 8:00 PM Admission $5.00; Children 12 & under free

TEEN TIME: FUN PAINT EXTRAVAGANZA Clendenin Branch Library 5:30 pm

MAKE AND TAKE CRAFT DAY Elk Valley Branch Library, All Day

TEEN TIME: MINUTE TO WIN IT! Elk Valley Branch Library, 6 pm

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

02-31

We would love to feature what matters to you, so please submit your upcoming events to:

advertise

with

ERL 304.546.9243 elkriverliving.com

M MATICS JANUARY 2020

Funeral Home

Charles L. “Sonny” Matics, Owner Anthony R. “Tony” Matics, Licensed Dir. 8539 ELK RIVER ROAD NORTH CLENDENIN, WV 25045 maticsfuneralhome@suddenlink.net 304.548.6611

NOW OFFERING 1 YEAR ERL SUBSCRIPTIONS

for

a perfect gift!

$24

CHARLES STRICKER, PRESIDENT

304.543.3825 | SOUFLOWERS@AOL.COM | 304.965.2462 5106 ELK RIVER RD, ELKVIEW

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

CLASSIC STEEL HOT ROD ASSOCIATION

THE

ELK’S COOKBOOK

JACKIE'S FRIED SPAGHETTI

ur mom, Jackie Knight, knew how to feed a crowd, and one of our favorites was her fried spaghetti. It actually isn’t fried, but it is best when it is assembled in a big skillet to let the cheese melt throughout. When any of our family comes home for a visit, they ask sister Tinki to make a big batch. The rest of us make plans to show up as well if we know that is what she is fixing!

1 large onion, sliced 1 green pepper, sliced

01 02

1 red pepper, sliced 2 cloves of garlic 1 pkg. sliced mushrooms (optional)

1 lb (16 oz.) of thin spaghetti, prepared 16 oz. mozzarella cheese, shredded 8 oz. mozzarella cheese, shredded

JANUARY 2020

Parmesan cheese

Heat garlic in some olive oil with a T of butter. Add onions, mushrooms and peppers and cook until slightly tender. While the vegetables are sautéing, boil the spaghetti according to directions and drain. Toss with a little olive oil to keep spaghetti from sticking. Add the drained spaghetti into the vegetable mixture and mix. Add the 16 oz. of mozzarella cheese and toss well. Top with 8 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese and some grated parmesan cheese if desired. Put the lid on the skillet and let the cheese melt well. If desired, you can serve with your favorite pasta sauce on the side. (Some of us add sauce, some of us don’t). Either way, it’s a delicious dinner with some garlic toast and a salad.

CIPE RE

IN G.C OM

Here’s What You’ll Need

Total: 1 hr Active: 45 min

Level: Easy

D US YO SEN UR

DIRECTIONS

IV ELKRIVERL

MUSKIE EXPO SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1ST $5 ADMISSION

FREE FOR WOMEN & CHILDREN UNDER 14

CLENDENIN, WV

M TO 5PM 10A

R IVER K L E

KOONTZ GYM 107 KOONTZ AVE. CLENDENIN, WV

CONTACT: MARK SHAFER 304.681.945.5801

DOOR PRIZES AUCTION

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

CONTACT: DAVE KNIGHT 304.840.1203

U L KIE C •MANY EXHIBITORS •MUSKIE TACKLE VENDOR SPACE AVAILABLE, SET-UP 8AM-10AM

M I C H A E L' S UNIQUE STYLES

JANUARY 2020

saturday

-542-7502

a tuesd

3 04 -

5-3605 / 3 96

Michael Ryan OWNER/STYLIST

4636 PENNSYLVANIA AVE CHARLESTON, WV 25302 michaelsuniquestyles@gmail.com

Surpassing Expectations When we were looking for a printer for our new magazine, Elk River Living, we did a quality and price comparison. The Printing Press not only met, but surpassed our expectations. The added bonus is working with Sandy Underwood and her staff is like working with good friends. They are always there to help us with whatever we need. When people in the community see we use The Printing Press, they immediately reply “Sandy Underwood? We love working her her.” No job is too large or small, and every customer receives excellent attention.

143 Gaylor Lane Charleston, WV 25312

Press printingpressltd.com

304.744.7949

NEW SATURDAY BREAKFAST BUFFET 8-11 AM & SUNDAY BUFFET 11-3PM DELIVERY NOW AVAILABLE! 14 MAIN STREET CLENDENIN, WV 25045

304.543.9930

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Cyndi Tawney Founder and Editor Elk River Living Magazine

GOURMET SHOP OPENS IN PINCH

f you’ve driven through Pinch lately, you have probably noticed a new business, Just a Pinch, LLC Specialty Shop. It is a great shop, loaded with assorted, hand-packaged containers of pasta, rice, flours, nuts, beans, seeds, spices, dried fruit, teas, coffees, drink powders and more! It even has a Slush Puppie Machine and our favorite, delicious hot coffee at 7 AM for your morning commute to drop off the kids at school or on your way to work. When you walk in the door, there are shelves full of perfect-sized containers of spices. “Many times people have to throw away spices because they are old; we thought it would be better to package them in smaller, reusable containers,” said Patty, manager. She and her husband, Darren Tucker, (from Pinch Ridge) opened the shop because they knew something like this was needed in our community. “This way you don’t have to drive to Charleston for hard-to-find or organic ingredients,” she said.

JANUARY 2020

The pasta selections have your traditional favorites, as well as cavatappi and radiator pasta, just to name a few. “If you don’t see what you need, let me know, and I’ll try to get it for you,” said Patty. There is a variety of rice, including Jasmine and Forbidden China Black Rice which was only available to emperors at one time. The flours and grains section includes unusual organic flours and keto-friendly almond and coconut flour. There are also gluten free and organic grains, as well as quinoa, couscous, oats, bulgar wheat, and falafel mix.

The shop carries an assortment of nuts, beans and peas including mung beans which are a sprouting bean for Asian cuisines, as well as pumpkin, sunflower, sesame, chia and flax seeds. There are delicious snacks including wasabi peas

and chocolate espresso beans. Customers can also find a variety of dried fruits and mushrooms at Just a Pinch. Some of the mushroom options include shiitake, forest mushroom, black trumpet, and stir-fry mushroom blend. Customers can also find a variety of drink powders including goat milk powder and nonfat milk powder at the shop. Additionally, there are other powders such as cappuccino, malted, vanilla latte, mocha and hot chocolate. Patty remarked, “The malted powder is awesome to give a special boost to shakes.” There are also packages of delicious loose leaf teas. Just a Pinch has an extensive selection of drink syrups (and sugar-free options) for coffee, lemonade, teas and milkshakes. The toasted marshmallow, salted caramel and butter rum

are a favorite this time of year. For teas there are several syrups such as blood-orange, mango, pomegranate and hibiscus. Also, there are coffee beans and not just your normal coffee beans. “These beans are a higherend bean, roasted outside of WV, and are not the regular coffee beans that you find at the grocery store,” said Patty. You can purchase the beans whole or have them ground at the shop. From breakfast blend to Jamiacan Blue Mountain to Colombian Supreme, customers can choose their favorite mild to extra dark roast. The shop now offers delicious muffins and cookies in easy, grab-and-go bags, perfect with a cup of coffee which is $1.25 for 16 ozs. or $1.50 for 20 ozs. If you need to pick up fresh vegetables or fruits, the shop also has a good variety of apples, oranges, lemons, grapes, onions, tomatoes, potatoes, honeydew, cabbage and fresh ginger root and fresh garlic. Just a Pinch is open from 7 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday, and on Saturday from 9 AM-5 PM. They are located at 261 South Pinch Road. Even though they have 8- and 16-ounce packaging for most products, they can also pack larger sizes to accommodate your needs. They will also prepare special orders of their featured products. What is more perfect than a cup of their delicious coffee and a cranberry-orange or blueberry muffin? Stop by and meet Patty and Darren and welcome them and their new shop to our community. You can also give them a call at 304.965.5557. We guarantee it won’t be your only trip to the store. It is a perfect addition to the Elk River.

- Randy Young and Jon Matuszkiewicz

hen it comes to college planning, retirement or estate planning, most of us have no idea where to begin. Affiliated Financial Group, a new business in Big Chimney, invites you to give them a call or stop by their office to sit down and just talk about where you are, where you want to be, and then let them help you get there.

ELK

“It’s time to think differently about your money.”

ND THE U O

Your Future Can Be in Good Hands

One issue is that people wait too long which affects their five-year outlook. Randy recommends that people plan ahead. “You don’t have to be a millionaire to have the need for estate planning,” he explained. He and Jon do holistic planning where they emphasize ‘accumulation of wealth, protect the wealth, and pass it on in the least taxable way possible.’

JANUARY 2020

“Most people spend more time watching television in one day than they do planning for their financial future.” -Randy Young

Jon has over 10 years of experience and he said, “The economic landscape is always changing. I like to use multi-disciplines of investments, income planning and insurance

Randy Young and John Matuszkiewicz

Randy Young, co-owner, said, “No one strategy fits everyone, which is why every client gets our undivided attention--from planning to execution to follow up.” Randy and Jonathan (Jon) Matuszkiewicz (aka married to Lindsay Ore Matuszkiewicz from Ore’s Pharmacy in Clendenin) are the owners of Affiliated Financial Group. Randy has been in business for 16 years and he said he has seen what happens when people don’t take the time to plan. That is the main reason they started their business. Randy said, “We repeatedly saw many friends and family struggling to find the help they needed to map out their financial future.”

to help our clients achieve their financial goals.” Jon also specializes in estate planning strategies, college savings planning, retirement planning, and 401k defined contribution plans. He said, “We understand the challenges families face. From managing debt to saving for college to retirement, these personal financial challenges can be overwhelming.” A good first step is to check out Affiliated

Financial Groupâ€™s website at www.afingrp.com or their Facebook page. Then call 304.935.2230 for an appointment. Their temporary address is 4508 Pennsylvania Avenue (across from the Smithâ€™s FoodFair at Big Chimney). They will be moving to their newly renovated office space in February/ March at 1260 Greenbrier Street (the old Custom Office Furniture red brick building--look for the green awnings). Affiliated Financial Group also has offices in Portsmouth and Toledo Ohio, and there are plans for four more offices in Morgantown, Parkersburg, and two more in Ohio.

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Let Randy and Jon create financial strategies tailored to your goals. They have the experience and the knowledge to guide you through your many life transitions. They also have Elk River values and will help you protect your family, preserve your assets, and invest wisely to build wealth.

ELK RIVER HEROES In each edition of Elk River Living we feature and celebrate a member from our community. If you would like to submit someone you know, please contact Cyndi Tawney at cyndi@elkriverliving.com.

KEITH MITCHELL “Serving the community is my favorite part of being a fireman. I have always believed in it. It has been a privilege and an honor to help take care of our community.” - Keith Mitchell

eith Mitchell is our Elk River Hero for January. He has volunteered for the Pinch Volunteer Fire Department and has proudly served in the 130th Air Wing (Air National Guard). He has considered it a privilege to serve in both roles. Recently, Keith retired from the Pinch Volunteer Fire Department after 46 years of service. He has served under four different fire chiefs: Harry Willard, Bill Allen, Sonny Wagoner and David

Wagoner. He started as a fireman and was then appointed as assistant chief for 37 years. For the following four years he served as deputy chief and then returned to fireman status until he retired as a lifetime member this past December. Keith graduated from Herbert Hoover High School in 1972. He served in the Air National Guard before he even graduated from high school. After he graduated, he went to basic training and received technical training in supply school in Denver, CO. When he returned home, he worked for a paint manufacturing company in Kanawha City for a year and a half before he was hired full-time with the 130th Air Wing (Air National Guard) in Charleston, WV. While working with the Air National Guard, he worked in supply and then ended his career in aircraft maintenance. He had 40 years in the military with 38 years as an Air Technician.

JANUARY 2020

His parents were Ruby and Renvell Mitchell of Big Chimney and he has a sister, Beth Mitchell Guthrie. He has two daughters, Sarah and Laura Mitchell. Sarah said, “I remember most of the Fire Department showing up at our house when dad was on one of his many tours overseas for the military. Our second family showed up and mowed our yard, checked our vehicles, and made sure we were okay.”

Keith

also

belongs

two

Keith Mitchell with daughters Laura and Sarah Mitchell

motorcycle

organizations. The first is The Patriot Ground Riders (PGR) organization. They honor fallen service members at funerals by establishing a flag line with the riders. They also provide a plaque to family members and a book of condolences. Additionally, the PGR riders establish a flag line for the deployment or the return of troops all over the state of WV. The second organization is the Red Knights Motorcycle Club. They are members of fire departments and emergency medical service providers and promote fire safety. They also provide assistance to families of fallen firefighters. Elk River Living salutes Keith and extends a special thank you for all he has done for our community. As his daughter, Sarah, said: “It’s more than a fire department, it’s a family.”

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CARRYING ON HIS LEGACY “The thing about being brave is it doesn’t come with the absence of fear and hurt. Bravery is the ability to look fear and hurt in the face and say move aside, you are in the way.” - Mellisa Tuming

E JANUARY 2020

mily Canterbury and her family understand looking fear in the face. Her husband, Rodney, had just purchased Xspec Power in April of 2016 and moved the business to Elkview that November. Not only did he buy Xspec Power, which was an established business, he also created and opened Critical Power Management as a new industrial and commercial generator company which he housed in the same office building. It was an exciting time of new beginnings for the Canterbury family. Rodney had worked for Walker Machinery for 18 years and left the company to start his own business. Then, when he was at a Generac conference in Tennessee in January 2017, he suddenly passed away.

Emily found herself and three young children, 9, 10 and 12 years of age, facing an uncertain future. When Rodney’s minority partner exited the business, Emily took a leap of faith, with no experience, and took over the business in January 2018. She learned all of the accounts and payroll and earned her apprentice electrician’s license. She knew she needed to provide for their three children plus she was not willing to

see her husband’s dream of seeing the businesses prosper fail. “He put in a lot of time, money and energy into starting his own business, “ said Emily. She added, “Rodney was a businessman. He had the business finesse and the knowledge. He was the driving force to make certain his business had a good foundation to grow.”

Xspec Power has achieved premier status with Generac for the last three years by selling over one million dollars of product each of those years. The company has also hit High Level status with Briggs & Stratton and Kohler the last two years. In 2019 they brought on a new generator dealer, Cummins. “We’re doing well with it and we have already sold a dozen products. Now we are training to be a full-service dealer for them as well.” Emily stated that sell, install, service and warranty is what they do for all of their dealers and Cummins will be the same. If anyone is interested in a generator, they should contact Xspec for a free, in-home estimate. Emily explained that a project manager will come out to your home to discuss the different brands and warranties and can even offer out-ofhouse financing. They have natural gas, turn-key installation and, if propane gas is needed, they have companies available who can facilitate that installation. Xspec Power carries Briggs and Stratton, Kohler, Generac, and Cummins products. They also provide service to new customers who need maintenance and warranty work on other generator brands. Xspec offers automatic standby generators, portables, pressure washers,

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Xspec Power Team

Two years later, Xspec Power is a prospering business with 14 employees. “They are more than employees, they are family,” said Emily. Xspec Power has brought on new brands of generators and a second installation crew. “We have also grown the business on the inside and are offering benefits to employees to create a stronger business model for all of us,” she added.

maintenance kits and parts. They provide shop work and maintenance on all of these products as well.

“Just because someone carries it well doesn’t mean it isn’t heavy.” Emily is thankful every day for the vision her husband had for growing the business. She said, “Many times my load is heavy and I get down with that, but seeing Rodney’s dream come true is worth it.” She is thankful for the flexibility to be both mom and dad to their three children. “Our kids are amazing. We all talked and agreed that we would help pull the load when I took over the business. They do their laundry and help cook and clean. We all share the demands of our family business.” Emily also stated that Rodney’s brother, David, has been their rock and their go-to. “He helps us so much; he’s more of a brother than a brother-in-law;” she added, “He and his dad, Chuck, have been there for us and we are blessed.” Honesty is Xspec Power’s key ingredient to success. Emily said, “At Xspec Power we are a team; if it’s not honest, we don’t do it.” January 24 will mark three years since Rodney passed. The Canterbury family, along with their work family, is carrying on his legacy and they look forward to serving the Elk River and surrounding areas for many years to come.

JANUARY 2020

Be prepared for power outages. You can visit Xspec Power at 4998A South Elk River Road in Elkview or you can contact them at 304.746.1139.

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Rodney Canterbury

Emily Canterbury

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Let Memories Ring It’s always a great time at the Museum of Elk River Communities in the Elk River Community Center on Thursdays from 10 AM to Noon with the regular history buffs and veterans, as well as guests. Jim Sholes (from Clendenin; married to Ulla Sue Lee Sholes) was in from Murrells Inlet, South Carolina and stopped by to visit with everyone at the Museum. Ray Milton Walker is helping him document his Vietnam story. Jim and Milton both graduated from Herbert Hoover High School in 1967. Carolyn Pirnat, museum volunteer, said, “We lost one of our regulars, Darrell Settle. He will be greatly missed.” There are always great stories exchanged each week. Carolyn and the other Museum volunteers invite veterans and anyone who loves Elk River history to stop by on Thursday morning. Carolyn said, “There is hot coffee and memories for everyone who drops in!”

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

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PAMPER YOURSELF

hen two Elk River girls team up to start their own business, there is only one word to describe them: SUCCESSFUL! Terra Bird and Beth Sizemore opened Seventh Boutique and Beauty Bar a year ago in South Charleston (a couple of doors down from Gorby’s). Terra’s focus is on the boutique and Beth’s is on the beauty bar. As they celebrate their one-year anniversary, Terra and Beth are happy at how well everything has fallen into place. Terra said, “Beth was looking for somewhere to have her spray tanning business and I was looking for somewhere to sell clothes.” Since they opened, the boutique has grown even more, now offering lash services, brows and microblading, nails, and skin care services, along with a full-service hair salon! Terra said she has noticed a big shift between big and small businesses and her customers definitely voice how much they appreciate the customer care and service they receive at the boutique. “We make sure we provide our customers with a convenient and nonjudgmental environment where they can relax,” said Terra. Beth added, “We want to be a one-stop shop! Somewhere you like to come and relax with your beauty treatments and get a great outfit with accessories.” The shop has a full array of services. They have hair stylists who offer cuts, color, perms, keratin treatments, Brazilian blow-outs and hair extensions. They have a full-service nail station with manicures, pedicures, gel and dip polish options. The boutique offers brow waxing and microblading, lash extensions and spray tanning. Their skin care services include dermaplaning and microabrasion, as well as excellent facial packages. Seventh Boutique is magical when you walk in the door. Clothing, candles, and jewelry from local artisans, homemade goods and giftables welcome you. There are bracelets, earrings, WV handmade soaps, t-shirts, dresses, jeans--the list goes on. They offer clothing in women’s and plus-size clothing from brands including Simply Southern, Southernology, and Judy Blue just to name a few.

JANUARY 2020

Terra said plans for the future include a new permanent makeup station that will offer permanent lip and eyeliner. She said, “We have approximately 1000 sq. ft. to expand and offer another premier service.” She and Beth are excited for their boutique to grow and be a convenient location where their clientele can receive top services for the best experience possible.

Make plans to visit their boutique today at 202 7th Avenue, South Charleston or call them at 304.746.7717 for an appointment.

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PET GRO OMING AT ITS BEST “It’s a great feeling when dogs come into our shop and are excited to be back! They come over to the table, sit down, and are ready for their haircut!” -Rebeca Briles

ebecca Briles has always had a love for animals. She took some classes in pet grooming at Carver Career and Technical Center and loved it so much that she pursued additional training at the Ohio Academy of Pets Styling, where she became a certified pet groomer.

Becky’s Pet Parlor specializes in dog grooming, hair cuts, bathing, nail trimming, ear cleaning, and actually, a little bit of everything, complete with a bow or a bandana as a finishing touch! Rebecca and Kaitlyn recommend that pets are generally groomed every 6 to 8 weeks. “It actually depends on the breed,“ said Rebecca; “some people like a neat trim and prefer to come every month.” Kaitlyn said, “Doodles, yorkies, and shih tzus get matted pretty quickly and often need more frequent grooming.” Rebecca added that even though doodles are a very popular dog, they are more high maintenance when it comes to grooming. All breeds are welcome, “from 2 to 200 lbs.,” Becky said with a smile. An appointment usually takes about two hours and most people drop off their pets for grooming and return to pick them up in a few hours. Becky stated that pet owners can also wait at the shop.

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Rebecca Briles and Kaitlyn Truman

“I have always loved animals, especially dogs,” said Rebecca. She worked at Pet Smart for 2 1/2 years and then opened her own shop, Becky’s Pet Parlor, at Pinch in 2010. Kaitlyn Truman is also a certified pet groomer at the shop. She started as a dog bather and then attended Animal Behavior College online and completed her apprenticeship with Rebecca to become a certified groomer. Both of them are dedicated to your pet’s grooming and wellness.

The shop takes walk-ins for nail trims; however, haircuts and bathing services are by appointment only. They are now booking appointments for the first week in February 2020. Rebecca said, “Just call the shop and leave us a message and we will get back with you.” She stated that safety first is their goal, and most of the time they are busy taking care of pets and cannot answer the phone. Kaitlyn added, “Taking care of your pets is our number one concern.” Becky’s Pet Parlor also offers a wide array of dog coats, collars, and leashes. Additionally, they carry hip and joint supplements and flea and tick products including Advantage (Flea), K9 Advantix (Flea and Tick), and Seresto collars for dogs and cats. Customers can stop in the shop to purchase any of these items. The shop is open Tuesday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM and on every other Saturday from 8 AM to 4:30 PM. They are closed on Sundays and Mondays. Holiday hours vary.

JANUARY 2020

Rebecca and Kaitlyn would like to thank everyone for their business and for entrusting them with the care of their pets. They are hoping to expand in the future and are looking for a location with even more space. See their ad in ERL and give them a call at 304.951.9162 to schedule an appointment for your pet.

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THE

ELK REFLECTS I-79 LINK OPENED-1977

his month’s Elk Reflects would like to share with you a special memory from 1977 when a new stretch of I-79 was opened to traffic.

Thank you Richard Bashlor and the Museum of Elk River Communities for sharing these photos! The museum is packed full of Elk River, Herbert Hoover High School, Elkview High School, Clendenin High School, Military, and First Responder photos and memorabilia.

JANUARY 2020

Stop by any Thursday from 10 AM to 12 Noon and talk about Elk River history with the volunteers and other history buffs. The Museum is located on the second floor of the Elk River Community and Education Center (the old Elkview Elementary School behind the Dairy Queen and Tudors at Elkview).

ERL would also like to feature any of your Elk River memories as well. Go to elkriverliving.com and select Reader’s Submission, Elk’s Journal, to submit your story.

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

JANUARY 2020

Welcome Back Pizza Hut

he Pizza Hut at the Crossings Mall at Elkview has reopened! They opened for business on December 19 under new ownership, Sugar Creek Pizza, out of Fairlawn, Ohio. Zack Cooper, the district manager, is excited to be a part of the Elkview community. The store has been closed since The Flood of 2016 which destroyed the bridge access to the Crossings Mall. The store offers carry-out services and there is also seating available in the dining area. The menu includes traditional favorites: lots of pizza, pasta (Meaty Marinara and Chicken Alfredo), Breadsticks, Wings, and Desserts (Cinnabon Mini Cinnamon Rolls, Hershey’s Chocolate Chip Brownie, Hershey’s Chocolate Chip Cookie, and Cinnamon Sticks).

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ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Zack Cooper and Brittany Berry

Their new hours are 11 AM to 10 PM, Sunday through Thursday, and 11 AM to 11 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. Brittany Berry, store manager, said, “You can call ahead and order at 304.935.0445.” She is looking forward to welcoming everyone to the new Pizza Hut!

JANUARY 2020

Celebrating 25 Years

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ELK

wenty five years at the same job may sound like a long time, but to Tammy Parker, it’s a joy to come to work every day. She is the librarian at the Clendenin Branch library. When she first walked into the library 25 years ago, she was just checking to see if they might have a part-time job available. Now it’s hard to imagine going to the Clendenin Branch Library and not seeing her smiling face.

The Clendenin Library Advisory Board celebrated Tammy’s 25th anniversary at their Christmas Open House on December 7. Midge Forwood, Advisory Board President, presented Tammy with a plaque in honor of this milestone. Tammy spoke about the library and some of the changes that have taken place over the years. “I remember a time before public computers;” said Tammy, “now we have our patrons checking out Wi-Fi access and more.”

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Tammy Parker

Clendenin Library Advisory Board

Tammy expressed her gratitude to the library staff, the Advisory Board, and all of the community who have supported both her and the Clendenin Branch Library over the years. Midge said, “Tammy gives so much to the library and the Town of Clendenin. We have been blessed to have her as our librarian.”

ELK RIVER SOCCER ON THE RISE “There are a lot of good athletes coming through and we are excited to see them continue to excel.”

EMS 2019 4th Place County Tournament

- Coach Cabell, Co-author of this article

Elk River Soccer Club U10 Boys

JANUARY 2020

occer teams on the Elk River have much Tournament Championship as well as the Target to celebrate. Over the past few years the United Cup Championship. Elk River has seen great growth in their After their Friends of Coal Cup victory the soccer programs, led by good coaches with Hooligans were invited to the Kanawha County hard-working players and supportive parents. Commissioner’s office on December 5th where The Shawnee Complex had its second annual Commissioners Ben Salango, Hoppy Shores, Friends of Coal Cup on November 15-17. and Kent Carper recognized the team for their Over the last two years, 200 teams from 6 accomplishments. Coach Cabell said, “I was different states competed in 32 divisions. As a lucky to have a talented group of players, players tournament that was built to showcase travel who work hard and really want to learn the teams (players/teams that play year round) from game of soccer, a great Assistant Coach in Scott all over, something different occurred. The Elk Duernberger, and amazing parents that support River Soccer Club U10 Boys capped off their everything the boys do.” third tournament win of the season and had Over the past few seasons the Hooligans are not the honor of being the first recreational soccer the only team from the Elk River to have success. team to win a division at the Friends of Coal Cup Last fall the Boys U12 Dragons, coached by Tim Tournament. The U10 Hooligans, coached by Miller and Scott Duernberger, were finalists in Billy Cabell and Scott Duernberger, also won the the Target United Cup and a finalist in the Old first annual Trace Fork Recreational Preseason

Many of the former U12 Dragons played an integral part in a successful season at Elkview Middle School (EMS) this past fall. The EMS Herd boys’ team, under the direction of Coach Jamie Truman, accomplished a berth in the Kanawha County playoffs for the first time ever with a record of 9-3. At the high school level, Coach Don Mercer, Herbert Hoover High School (HHHS) boys soccer coach, was named 2019 Gazette Mail AllKanawha Valley Coach of the Year. Mercer helped lead Hoover to a Class AA Region 3 Section 1 final where the Huskies fell 2-0 to Charleston Catholic. The HHHS soccer boys finished 16-6-3. Not to be outdone by the boys, many of the Elk River Soccer Club Girls teams have had success over the past few seasons as well. Last fall the U10 Cheetahs, coached by Mark Nary, won the Old Colony Realtor KVSL Tournament and last spring the U12 United team, coached by Jody Brown, won the Old Colony Realtor KVSL Tournament. This season the U12 Lions, coached by Greg Shaffer, won the Target United Cup as

well as Old Colony Realtor KVSL Tournament. The U8 Mermaids, coached by Angela Brown and Josh Summerfield, also won the Target United Cup with this being the first season that the tournament held a competition for the U8 age bracket. Also, last month the U10 Girls, coached by Jody Brown, won the Indoor Gobbler Classic at Quantum Sports. Last fall, the EMS soccer girls team, led by Mike Strickland, made it to the finals of the Kanawha County Championship game and placed second, after a defeat to Charleston Catholic. The HHHS girls’ team has had several winning seasons under the direction of Hunter Burkhead and former coach Brittany Woods. Coach Cabell said, “There are a lot of good athletes coming through and we are excited to see them continue to excel.” He added that “we are looking forward to a bright future for all of the soccer teams on the Elk River.” For more information on the Elk River Soccer Club, see their Facebook page or website http:// www.elkriversoccer.com or contact them at 304.602.ERSC (3772).

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Colony Realtor KVSL Tournament in the Spring.

EMS 2018 2nd Place County Tournament

JANUARY 2020

HHHS Soccer Girls 2019

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Elk River Soccer Club U10 Boys at Kanawha Co. Commissioner's Office

HHHS Soccer Boys 2019

JANUARY 2020

READERâ€™S SUBMISSION

his monthâ€™s Reader Submission was shared with us by Karl Tate. Karl was raised in Clendenin and graduated from Herbert Hoover High School in 1986. He is the son of Joe and the late Linda Tate. He and his companion, Peggy Caldwell, (from Bomont) live in Norfolk, VA. Karl has two children, Karlee and Joey Tate. He owns Kman Photos, where he specializes in scenery, weddings and other special occasions. His photos this month feature a small church in Edray, WV (Pocahontas County) and the sunset at Chesapeake Bay, Norfolk, VA.

If you would like to submit a photo, work of art, short story, poem, knitwork - whatever inspires you - please reach out to us at elkriverliving.com or contact cyndi@elkriverliving.com

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ELK’S JOURNAL REAL THUGS: A CULT OF MURDER! BY ERIC DOUGLAS

uthor Eric Douglas of Pinch, WV, just released a new FBI thriller novel, Real Thugs: A Cult of Murder! His latest novel involves a mysterious murder cult brought to the United States to sow discord and terror. Eric said, “I became interested in this story while I was reading an out-ofprint book by Mark Twain where Twain told the story of the Thuggee, a group of thieves who traveled India killing and stealing. They killed their victims by strangulation using scarves they tied around their waists.” He then read “Confessions of a Thug” by Captain Philip Meadows Taylor. Eric explained, “This book, which was written in the mid-1800’s, purports to be an interview with a Thuggee leader in prison. I knew I wanted to use the Thuggee in my new book.” FBI Special Agent AJ West, a character from his former novel, Water Crisis, stars in Eric’s new novel Real Thugs: A Cult of Murder. Eric said, “I enjoyed her character so much, I decided to spin her off into her own book.” Eric’s first Mike Scott Thriller, Cayman Cowboys, was featured in ERL’s October issue. His new book, Real Thugs, A Cult of Murder, is his 19th book! All of Eric’s books can be purchased on Amazon. com or in softcover wherever books are sold. You can also download his ebook version of “Cayman Cowboys, Reefs Under Pressure” FREE on Eric’s website, booksbyeric.com. Excerpt from Real Thugs: A Cult of Murder:

AJ donned her FBI windbreaker and hung her ID from a lanyard around her neck before approaching the scene. Dwayne knew the drill and followed right behind her. While he knew she could take out anyone there -- his jaw was still sore from their morning workout -- he also realized sometimes having a male presence as backup helped with the locals. They had discussed it many times. Not that he would supersede her authority but having him standing there ready to follow her orders smoothed the way for the others. As soon as the local officers saw AJ and Dwayne approach, they turned to look at the sheriff who stood facing the scene with his back to them. When he realized that his men were looking at him, he turned to see what had their attention.

JANUARY 2020

"Boy, am I glad to see you two," the man said without any preamble.

AJ smiled. That was the other option for this discussion. Sometimes, the locals wanted nothing to do with a scene like this and were only too happy to turn it over to someone else. "We got here as quickly as we could, sir. I'm Special Agent AJ West and this is Special Agent Dwayne

Charles." "I'm Phil Newsome, the sheriff in Prince William County. The park police and rangers called me in. We work with them closely when there is an accident in the park. They don't have the resources to deal with this sort of thing. But I took one look at this mess and knew it was over my head, too." "Why don't you tell me what you've found. Since this is on national park land and considering how close we are to the Marine base at Quantico, this is definitely federal jurisdiction."

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"I didn't know if I should call NCIS or you guys," Newsome said. "I'll alert NCIS if the situation warrants." AJ preferred to keep her comments in situations like this to the basics. It was her basic interrogation technique, not giving away too much information and letting others fill in the gaps. "That sounds good. So, here's what we're looking at." Newsome turned and faced the crime scene. Two men in Tyvek suits were uncovering a hole in the ground and AJ could see at least three bodies. "A hiker found this. At least part of it. An arm was sticking out of the ground where an animal had gotten to it." Eight officers stood around the scene. They were 50 yards away from the road, down an embankment. AJ noted the soil seemed soft where runoff had collected the leaves and sediment from the hills. She could just hear a small stream behind some tall shrubs.

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The local police had strung police tape around a 30foot square covering the shallow graves.

"We just uncovered the third one. When I called FBI headquarters, we only saw two. The third body was buried below the second one.

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"Our report said there were two bodies here. But that looks like three to me."

ELK RIVER LIVING