Elk River Living | Volume 08 | Issue 05

Cardiology Care Close to Home

Heart disease touches countless lives in our community. At Roane General Hospital, we’re dedicated to ensuring that expert cardiology care is within reach for those who need it most. From prevention and education to advanced diagnostics, treatment, and rehabilitation, our experienced team is here to deliver the exceptional care you deserve—close to home.

Winning Team With an Exemplary Coach

The EMS Archery Team won three WV State Championships in 3D, Bullseye and Centershot and their coach, Eddie Gray, received the 2026 NIAAA State Award of Merit for his commitment to educational athletics.

something special about spring on the

River

The days are longer, the hills are greener, and the trail begins to fill with life again—walkers, cyclists, families, and now… maybe even a few cryptids?

Hello & Welcome!

What’s Happening on the Elk This Spring!

You never know where you might spot an Elk River native! This month, Jill Moles Mullins found herself in Florida capturing incredible photos of the second rollout of the Artemis II rocket as it prepares for its journey to the moon. We’re so excited she shared her experience with ERL so all of us can feel like we were part of something truly out of this world!

Closer to home, ERL is proud to spotlight the talented archery team at Elkview Middle School, who recently brought home their third State Championship title. What an accomplishment! Their coach, Eddie Gray, was also honored with the 2026 State Award of Merit from the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association, recognizing his dedication to educational athletics and the students he inspires every day. Before you dig into your garden this season, be sure to check out Laura Shafer’s article on the many varieties of cucumbers. With so many options, you might just find yourself trying something new this year! One of our favorites is the cucamelon which looks like tiny watermelons with a hint of citrus and are perfect for adding to your summer salads.

And don’t forget to mark your calendars! On May 31st, the Elk River Trail Foundation will host the 2026 Elk River Trail Races in Clay County with a 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon, and a fun Bigfoot theme as part of the West Virginia Cryptid Race Series. It’s sure to be a memorable day. You can read more about it in Madison Stone’s Trail Mix article.

Speaking of the trail, spring has the Elk River Trail buzzing with activity. New walking groups from Braxton to Clendenin are gathering regularly, making it a great way to get some exercise, enjoy the fresh air, and connect with others in the community. This May, we invite you to experience the trail in a whole new way!

After a long, cold winter, it feels so good to finally get back outside. Lace up your tennis shoes, grab a friend, and soak up the sunshine. Whether you’re cheering on your favorite team, enjoying a little friendly family-feud competition at Clendenin Brewing Company, playing bingo at TK’s Pizza & Sports Bar, or shopping and having a nice lunch at Blanch’s Diner, Frostbite, The Depot, or Harding’s Family Restaurant: there are so many reasons to be out and about!

Spring really is good for the soul, and there’s no better place to enjoy it than right here along the Elk. Take care my friends! I hope to see you soon!

Creative Director /

Editor In Chief / Ken Tawney

Cyndi Tawney

Operations Director / Josh Tawney

Printer / The Printing Press

Charleston, WV

Layout & Design / Katheryne E. Popp

Little Secret Design Co.

Photographer / Scott Abbott

Scott Abbott Photo

ON THE COVER

Our own Elk River Living guest photographer, Jill Moles Mullins, captured the launch of the Artemis II rocket on March 19 and shared her story and photos in this month’s issue!

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 expressly 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

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Stay connected to the heart of the Elk River with an annual subscription to Elk River Living. Each issue features favorites like The Elk’s Cookbook and The Elk’s Journal, along with uplifting stories that celebrate our neighbors, local traditions, and the shared spirit that strengthens our communities all year long.

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CROCK POT PORK CHOPS AND APPLES

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.

Whether you are looking for comfort food or an easy meal, this recipe for Crock Pot Pork Chops and Apples checks all the boxes! Gabi said, “It’s savory and sweet, the pork cooked perfectly, and a crockpot meal is always a winner!” Give it a try soon!

this recipe & more

CROCK POT PORK CHOPS & APPLES

INGREDIENTS

From the Kitchen of Gabi Strickland Walker

DIRECTIONS

• 2 1/4-2 1/2 lbs - 1/2” thick bone-in pork center loin and rib chops (I actually used thick boneless pork ribeye steaks)

• Seasoning Salt - generous (I used Everglades)

• 1 stick butter - divided

• 1 C chicken broth - divided

• 21 oz can apple pie filling

• 2 T brown sugar

• 6 oz box chicken Stovetop Stuffing

PREP 15-20 MIN | COOKTIME 3-4 HRS

STEP 1 Sprinkle seasoning salt evenly over both sides of the pork chops. In a large skillet, melt 2 T of the butter over medium/high heat. Once the pan is really hot, sear the pork chops about 1 minute per side.

STEP 2 Pour ½ C of the chicken broth into the bottom of the crockpot. Cube 2 T of the butter and disperse in the broth. Place the seared pork chops in the slow cooker.

STEP 3 Spoon the apple pie filling over the top of the pork chops, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle with brown sugar.

STEP 4 In a medium bowl, combine the stuffing mix, remaining ½ C chicken broth, and melted 4 T butter. Spread the mixture evenly over the top of the apple pie filling.

STEP 5 Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hrs or until the pork chops are tender and cooked through. Serve pork chops with a generous helping of the apple and stuffing mixture on top.

A WINNING TEAM WITH AN EXEMPLARY COACH

The Elkview Middle School Archery Team competed in three WV State Championships, sweeping first place awards in 3D, Bullseye and Centershot this year! Also, their coach, Eddie Gray, received the 2026 National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) State Award of Merit for his commitment to educational athletics. EMS hit the bullseye--all the way around!

For decades, Coach Eddie Gray has been a driving force behind student athletics in our Elk River community, and in 2026, that dedication was recognized in a big way. Gray was honored with the prestigious NIAAA State Award of Merit—an award that celebrates excellence in leadership, service, and commitment to educational athletics.

One of the most remarkable chapters of Coach Gray’s story is the archery program he built at Elkview Middle School. Since becoming head archery coach in 2006, he helped launch the school’s National Archery in the Schools (NASP) pilot program and has grown it into one of the top programs in the state. Under his leadership, EMS archers have reached impressive heights, earning

West Virginia State Championships in the Middle School Bullseye Division in 2021, 2024 and 2026, as well as the 3D Division titles in 2024, 2025 and 2026.

His impact extends far beyond his own team. For the past seven years, Coach Gray has organized and directed West Virginia’s largest NASP tournament, welcoming more than 1,400 student archers each year—an incredible contribution that has opened the door for countless young athletes to get involved and compete.

Gray’s leadership also spans more than 27 years in athletic administration. Since 2000, he has served as Athletic Director at Elkview Middle School, where he has championed both competitive success and broad participation. His efforts were recognized in 2018 when he was named West Virginia Middle School Athletic Director of the Year.

And if that wasn’t enough, Coach Gray has also made his mark on the golf course. As Head Golf Coach at Herbert Hoover High School since 2010, he led the Huskies to the Class AA West Virginia State Golf Championship in 2021. That same year, he earned both West Virginia State Golf Coach of the Year and NFHS Section 2 Golf Coach of the Year honors. At the middle school level, he guided EMS teams to Kanawha County Girls Golf Championships in 2023 and 2024.

Beyond coaching and administration, Gray continues to serve the broader athletic community. He is a member of the WVADA Board of Directors, directs the WVADA North/ South Golf Classic, and is a member of the WVSSAC Golf Committee.

The NIAAA State Award of Merit is reserved for individuals who exemplify the highest standards of integrity, service, and dedication—and Coach Gray’s career reflects a steadfast belief in creating meaningful opportunities for student-athletes to grow, compete, and succeed.

In every role he’s taken on, Coach Gray has left a lasting impact—not just on programs, but on the students and community he’s served so faithfully.

NOT ONE, NOT TWO, BUT THREE 2026 STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS

Check out this skilled team of archers, who brought home the gold as team champions at three 2026 State Championships!

2026 WV NASP Middle School

Centershot 3D State Championship Team, First Place

Individual winners are:

FEMALE DIVISION

Brooke Sayre, 1st place State Champion

Rayline Smith, 2nd place

Ally Gunnoe, 3rd place

Caroline Barron, 4th place

Mallory Arbogast, 7th place

Aubrey Moles, 9th place

MALE DIVISION

Wyatt Shamblin, 1st place State Champion

Jacob Chandler, 2nd place

Gavin Hall, 3rd place

Jackson Blankenship, 4th place

Carter Alford, 6th place

Hayden Mullins, 7th place

Kenneth Ayers, 8th place

2026 WV NASP Middle School

Bullseye State Championship Team, First Place (third title: 2021, 2024, 2026)

Individual place winners were:

FEMALE DIVISION:

Brook Sayre, 6th place with a score of 279/300.

Mallory Arbogast, 9th place with a score of 274/300.

MALE DIVISION:

Wyatt Shamblin, 1st place with a score of 287/300.

EMS archers who achieved their personal best at this event: Jacob Chandler, Colton Watts, Caroline Barraon, & Gavin Hall.

2026 WV 3D State Championship, (third year in a row: 2024, 2025, 2026) Team, First Place

Individual place winners were:

FEMALE DIVISION

Brook Sayre, 3rd place

Kyleigh Woody, 4th place

Ally Gunnoe, 9th place

MALE DIVISION

Wyatt Shamblin, 2nd place

Colton Watts, 6th place

Kenneth Ayers, 8th place

Evan Woody, 10th place

WE’RE GOING BACK TO THE

From the Mountain State to Mission Control: West Virginia’s Hidden Role in NASA’s Journey

By ERL Guest Author & Photographer, Jill Moles Mullins

On the evening of March 19th, I had the privilege and honor of being part of something truly amazing. Along with a small group of people, I was able to experience and photograph the second rollout of the beautiful Artemis II rocket, headed for the moon.

The rollout was originally scheduled for 8:00 p.m., but due to high winds, it was delayed. As the evening stretched on and we waited, excitement filled the night air. It felt as though time had stopped, with whispers fluttering through the wind.

Then, at 12:20 a.m. on March 20th, the first movement began. The moment was surreal. As this majestic rocket began its journey to the launch pad, there are simply no words or even photographs that can fully capture the beauty and magnitude of its size. It glowed in a way that can only be described as breathtaking. It was as if the rocket knew the entire world was watching; it looked alive.

For the Artemis II Space Launch System (SLS) rocket to reach its launch pad, it must travel four miles from the Vehicle Assembly Building (VAB), where it resides. Moving at a top speed of less than one mile per hour aboard crawler-transporter 2, the journey takes 10 to 12 hours to complete.

On April 1st at 6:35 p.m., the Artemis II SLS rocket launched from Kennedy Space Center’s Launch Complex 39B, propelling four astronauts into space toward the moon. Watching the rocket roar off the pad, seeing the flames grow as it ascended into the heavens, and feeling the deep rumble of the engines, it was an incredibly powerful and exhilarating moment. What an amazing time to be alive. This historic feat has not occurred since the Apollo 17 mission in 1972. The mission also carries several historical artifacts, including fabric from the original 1903 Wright Flyer.

The purpose of this mission was a 10-day flyby expedition (no landing) designed to orbit the moon. The crew passed over the lunar far side, which is never visible from Earth, and experienced about 40 minutes of radio silence during that time. The mission also provided views of areas rarely seen, such as the Mare Orientale basin in full sunlight.

Its trajectory broke the record for the farthest distance humans have ever traveled in space. The international crew includes NASA astronauts Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover, and Christina Koch, along with Canadian Space Agency astronaut Jeremy Hansen. NASA has also partnered with SpaceX for further lunar exploration as part of the Artemis program. SpaceX is developing the first commercial human lander that will carry astronauts safely to the lunar surface on future missions.

The Artemis II rocket and Orion spacecraft (the capsule where astronauts reside) stand a combined 322 feet tall, roughly the height of a 32-story building. At liftoff, it generates 8.8 million pounds of thrust. The core stage alone stands 212 feet tall and uses four RS-25 engines, supported by two solid rocket boosters, each 177 feet tall. Together, they consume more than 730,000 gallons of cryogenic propellant to lift a total weight of 5.75 million pounds.

The Orion spacecraft traveled in high Earth orbit before performing a translunar injection, following a figureeight trajectory around the moon. Upon return, it reentered Earth’s atmosphere at approximately 25,000 miles per hour and splashed down in the Pacific Ocean, supported by 11 parachutes.

WEST VIRGINIA’S ROLE IN SPACE EXPLORATION

West Virginia has played a long and vital role in NASA’s history. It began with Katherine Johnson of White Sulphur Springs, who later moved to Institute, West Virginia, where she graduated from high school at just 14 years old. She went on to attend West Virginia State College, taking every mathematics course offered, and graduated summa cum laude at age 18 with degrees in mathematics and French.

In 1939, she became the first African American woman to attend graduate school at West Virginia University in Morgantown. Johnson went on to become a pioneering NASA mathematician, calculating critical trajectories, launch windows, and emergency return paths for early U.S. spaceflights, including Alan Shepard’s 1961 mission and John Glenn’s 1962 orbit. Her work was essential to the success of the Apollo moon landing and was later celebrated in the book and film Hidden Figures.

Jon McBride, a Navy captain born in Charleston, became the first West Virginian in space. Selected as an astronaut in 1979, he served as the lead chase pilot for the maiden voyage of Space Shuttle Columbia. On October 5, 1984, he piloted Challenger on the first mission to carry a sevenperson crew.

Andrew Morgan, born in Morgantown, is an Army colonel, physician, and NASA astronaut. He spent 272 days aboard the International Space Station from 2019 to 2020, alongside fellow astronaut Christina Koch, who is now part of the Artemis II mission. Together, they completed multiple spacewalks during their time in orbit.

Emily Calandrelli, an aerospace engineer and author from Morgantown, has also made her mark. Her work has included designing simulations for the Phoenix Mars Lander and researching laser technologies to reduce jet engine emissions. In 2024, she traveled to space aboard Blue Origin’s New Shepard, becoming the first woman from West Virginia in space and the 100th woman overall to reach that milestone.

Homer Hickam Jr., from Coalwood, is a NASA engineer, Vietnam War veteran, and author of Rocket Boys, which inspired the 1999 film October Sky. His passion for rocketry began after witnessing Sputnik cross West Virginia skies in 1957. He later helped train astronauts and worked on the Hubble Space Telescope program.

Chuck Yeager, raised in Hamlin, made aviation history in 1947 as the first pilot confirmed to break the sound barrier. He later led the U.S. Air Force Aerospace Research Pilot School, training future astronauts. Over a 70-year career, he flew more than 360 types of aircraft and remains one of the most celebrated pilots in history.

WEST VIRGINIA INDUSTRY SUPPORTING NASA

West Virginia companies also play a key role in modern space exploration. The Green Bank Observatory, located in Green Bank WV, provided critical, sensitive radio tracking and communications for the Artemis II lunar flight and Mars rover landings. GBO helps test new technologies for deep space research, and provides planetary defense in tracking asteroids. They also provide planetary radar observations to track and image objects in space. GBO has partnered with NASA spanning several decades.

Constellium in Ravenswood produces advanced aluminum-lithium alloys used throughout the SLS rocket and Orion spacecraft. These materials provide the strength and durability required for spaceflight and have supported NASA missions for over a decade.

CFOAM in Triadelphia manufactures carbon foam derived from coal, used for thermal insulation and tooling in aerospace applications.

TMC Technologies in Fairmont develops software and simulation tools for NASA’s Independent Verification and Validation (IV&V) Program, including work on the James Webb Space Telescope. In 2019, NASA honored Katherine Johnson by renaming its Fairmont facility the Katherine Johnson IV&V Facility.

THANK YOU!

This has been a lifelong dream of mine, and I want to thank Amanda G. with NASA, who made this incredible experience possible. I will forever be grateful for the opportunity she gave me to witness and share this historic moment for Elk River Living magazine and the community through my photographs. As people gathered in Titusville and surrounding areas from all over the world to witness history in the making, this Elk River gal was overwhelmed with emotion. I feel truly blessed to have been part of it. There are angels among us who help make dreams come true, and Amanda is mine.

Indian Lake

All children 18 and under fish FREE at Indian Lake and they are loving the lake time! Thank you, Chris Veltri, at Indian Lake for doing this for the kids in our community!

WV AUTHORS: STANDING THE TEST OF TIME

DKathleen M. Jacobs is a West Virginian living in New York City. Her work can be ordered online and from all booksellers, plus is available here in our Elk River community at the local Harding’s Restaurant. She can be reached at www.kathleenmjacobs.com. This month ERL is proud to present Honeysuckle Holiday by Kathleen Jacob.

enise Giardina. Pinckney Benedict. Homer Hickam. Cynthia Rylant. Mary Lee Settle. Breece D’J Pancake. Jayne Anne Phillips. Lee Maynard. Pearl Buck. Julia Keller. John Knowles. Kathleen M. Jacobs. While this list is not an exhaustive one, it is a good place to start. And by adding my own name to the list, I do so with a generous heaping of gratitude to those who showed me the way with such certainty and brilliance—along with an equal measure of humility. I am particularly grateful to Giardina and to Benedict, my early creative writing teachers whose imparted lessons are still firmly in place.

As the spring season and the summer season approach with an unbridled enthusiasm, I’m reminded that the 10th anniversary of the publication of my debut work, Honeysuckle Holiday, is right on its heels. And I’m enthusiastic to acknowledge that the work has stood the test of time, along with The Unquiet Earth, Town Smokes, Rocket Boys, Missing May, The Beulah Quintet, Stories, Night Watch, Crum, The Good Earth, A Killing in the Hills, and A Separate Peace. Each examines the strength and resiliency of the human spirit, and each has stood the test of time, finding new readers and repeat readers every year, meeting the definition of timeless: “not affected by the passage of time or changes in fashion.” I like to think that Honeysuckle Holiday has, at the least, found a way to reach new readers over the past ten years because it too speaks to the human spirit and its most certain invitation to consider our country’s history and how, even if very little, it has managed to evolve into an even more humane society, as we learn—each of us—to live with one another, finding commonality over division. And as writers, it is our responsibility to not only tell a good story but to

leave the reader with a call to reflect, to consider, and to learn and adapt. If we’ve done that, after the last page has been turned, then we have accomplished a bit of what we set out to do. And somehow, that is enough.

Honeysuckle Holiday takes place in the 1960s south, set against the racial tensions of that era. Lucy, its twelveyear-old protagonist, struggles internally as she comes to terms with her parents’ sudden and mysterious divorce. She finds herself thrust—almost overnight—from a world of comfort and privilege into one of near marginality. When her mother hires a Black woman to help her, the situation intensifies. Lucy learns the mystery behind her parents’ divorce—her father’s uncharacteristic, almost unforgivable immersion in the KKK. Lucy comes to shed her unknowing racism, taking her beyond the ideals of youth—her love of books and the trappings of childhood knit closely to her very fiber. She learns to peel back the layers of human frailty (her own included) painful piece by painful piece, while struggling to hold on tight to the comforts of innocence. And isn’t that what we’re all trying to do? And something tells me that, without a doubt, those accomplished WV authors who paved a path for me would welcome me and my work to the table, because that’s what West Virginians do for one another. I too will one day be called on to do the same, and I welcome that moment. We must not forget—for one second—that the bar set by those who came before us is a high one, indeed. And that’s what is part of a timeless work of literature. Kirkus Reviews said, “Jacobs is a talented, descriptive writer who provides particularly lush descriptions...” And author Susan Noe Harmon said, “Honeysuckle Holiday brims with the history of an era that changed generations.” When reviewers commented that the story reminded them of Scout in To Kill a Mockingbird I knew that I had done something right. And it seems, after ten years gathering new readers, I did just that. And yes, it is enough.

THE

SHOP HONORS BASKETBALL ALL CONFERENCE AND ALL STATE

Hoover’s The Shop and Tim Meyer presented homemade plaques to the All Conference and All State Hoover Basketball players (Pictured L-R): Bradley White, Mason Miller, Sam Kee, and Riley Johnson for All-Conference Cardinal Conference 2026; Riley Johnson for Basketball Player of the Year 2026 for the Cardinal Conference; and Riley Johnson for All State AAA 2nd Team Division 2026.

ALL CARDINAL CONFERENCE LADY HUSKIES BASKETBALL

Congrats to Eden Niewierowski, Payshence Lyons, Bella Haas, and Ayva Veltri, as pictured L-R. Photos by Essay Media.

Cambell Lunsford & Lady Huskies Softball Team

MAYSEN FLETCHER, GATORADE

WV GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY PLAYER OF THE YEAR

Mayson Fletcher has donated her Gatorade Player of the Year Community Grant to Special Olympics, WV. Beautiful, talented lady, inside and out!

Collin Flanagan

WHEN YOU KNOW, YOU KNOW!

Collin Flanagan, HHHS sophomore, pitched an amazing baseball game against the Capital High School Cougars with an 8-0 win. Also, Campbell Lunsford, sophomore, scored a home run for the Lady Huskies against Ripley with a 6-3 win. The Hoover teams are looking great this year. Come cheer them on! Photo courtesy of Essay Media.

HOOVER TENNIS TEAM SERVES UP WINS

Coach Ross Murray is excited about the young tennis team at HHHS. “We have 13 girls and 2 boys, and at least 8-9 of them are freshmen. The team has one senior, JuJu Murray,” he said. “It’s a rebuilding year, but at midseason we are 4-4, and we are excited about the upcoming Cardinal Conference match and finishing our season strong.

Photo by Tim’s Takes Photography.

Graysen Taylor

OMITTED, BUT HERE NOW!

Last month in our April issue, two Elkview Middle School wrestlers were omitted from our feature. Even though we caught the error and corrected it online, our printed copies were already distributed. This month we would like to highlight Dillon Wehrle (215 lbs. wt. class) and Graysen Taylor (145 lb. wt. class), who were both runner ups at the 2026 Kanawha County Tournament. Great job to all of the Elk River wrestlers!

ALREADY BREAKING RECORDS!

HHHS Track and Field have already broken school records and it’s still early in the season. The Lady Huskies team won the Black Eagle High School Invitational at Laidley Field on April 9 and set a new school record for the 4 x 200 meter relay (Gia Lopez, Macie Smith, Jade Murray, Emma Cottrell) and the 3200 Meter Run (Maysen Fletcher). The boys team placed as runner-up. Also, at Sissonville on April 12, Brayden Jones broke the 200m school record from 2005 by running 23.3, beating the old record by .08 seconds!

At the second Annual Husky Classic on April 2, the girls team took first place and had 11 team members place! Maysen Fletcher took the Girls High Point Champion and Penny Byrd set a new school record in long jump. The boys team placed third with two first place finishes. All in all, 43 personal bests for our athletes!! Photos courtesy of Essay Media.

MOLLY MOOCHER TIME!

Jadie Pettry Teel, Damien Hall, and Timmy Teel enjoyed some quality time foraging for molly moochers, a true Appalachian morsel. Other common names for this morel are sponge mushroom and waffle mushrooms. These delicacies of the woods appear in early spring and are a delicious dish. Jadie said, “I soak them for at least 24 hours in salt water and rinse them really well. Then I roll them in flour, add my favorite seasoning, and fry them in a little butter or some people prefer oil.”

CLENDENIN BREWING CO.

LIVE MUSIC & EVENTS

KENTUCKY DERBY PARTY

OPEN MIC NIGHT W/ CHET LOWTHER

JOHN RICHARDS

BOOK CLUB

JOE BIRD MUSIC

SCOTT STRAIGHT 5/2 • 2PM 5/9 • 6:30PM 5/9 • 6:30PM 5/15 • 6:30PM 5/16 • 6:30PM

5/20 • 6:30PM 5/23 • 6:30PM 5/30 • 6:30PM

ASK A PASTOR BIBLE STUDY

MCKENNA HOPE

2 MAIN STREET • CLENDENIN

& DON’T FORGET ABOUT ONGOING BIBLE STUDY • WEDNESDAYS @ 6:30 PM BINGO • THURSDAYS @6:30 PM

A LEGACY THAT LIVES ON HONORING BRAYDEN TAYLOR THROUGH FISHING, FAMILY & GIVING BACK

Indian Lake owner Chris Veltri: “Brayden “grew up at Indian Lake,” forming lifelong friendships and countless memories along its banks.”

On May 16, 2026, Indian Lake will once again become a place of remembrance, community, and purpose as it hosts the 3rd Annual Brayden Taylor Memorial Fishing Tournament. Brayden Taylor was just 20 years old when he suffered a massive heart attack caused by a blood clot. Brayden’s family chose to honor his life with the Brayden Taylor Memorial Scholarship Fund to support a Sissonville High School senior who plans to continue their education through an adult vocational or trade program. Brayden was a graduate of Ben Franklin Career Center, where he completed the adult Electrical Technician program and earned his universal HVAC certification. His dedication to learning a skilled trade makes the scholarship a fitting tribute to his journey and ambitions. All proceeds from the tournament go directly to the scholarship fund.

NAYLOR & YOUNG HOME APPLIANCES

Who remembers Naylor and Young Home Appliances at 3414 Pennsylvania Avenue on Elk River Road? It was a popular destination for fine furnishings and appliances. Here is a photo taken of Naylor and Young in 1957-58, shared by Elk River Communities in Kanawha County.

There’s something special about spring on the Elk River Trail. The days are longer, the hills are greener, and the trail begins to fill with life again—walkers, cyclists, families, and now… maybe even a few cryptids?

This May, we’re inviting you to experience the Elk River Trail in a whole new way. On May 31st, the Elk River Trail Foundation is proud to host the 2026 Elk River Trail Races in Clay County, featuring a 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon - this time with a fun and uniquely West Virginia twist. This year’s race will be Bigfoot-themed, celebrating one of the Mountain State’s most legendary creatures as part of the new West Virginia Cryptid Race Series.

The race will kick off at our Dundon Trailhead, which is also the future home of our new Visitors Center (opening date to be announced soon). This location offers runners a scenic, immersive experience along the Elk River Trail, one that highlights both the natural beauty of the region and the exciting progress happening along the trail system.

But this is more than just a race.It’s part of a larger effort to showcase what makes our communities so special. These races celebrate our local legends, our small towns, and the growing opportunities for outdoor recreation in our region.

The Cryptid Race Series will continue later this year with another exciting event on September 13th in Gassaway, featuring the Braxton County Monster. That race, featuring a full marathon, half-marathon and 5K races, will begin at the Gassaway Trailhead, located beside the historic train depot, offering another unique and memorable setting for participants.

Whether you’re a seasoned runner chasing your next finish line or someone just looking for a fun and meaningful way to get outside, there’s a place for you at these events.

CHASING LEGENDS ON THE ELK RIVER TRAIL

Submitted by Madison Stone, Executive Director of the Elk River Trail Foundation

And if running isn’t your thing, you can still be part of the excitement. We are currently seeking volunteers to help make race day a success. From cheering on participants to assisting with handing out water and medals, our volunteers play a huge role in creating an unforgettable experience for everyone involved. It’s a great way to support the trail, connect with your community, and be part of something truly special. If you’re ready to chase Bigfoot (or at least a personal best), we encourage you to sign up today.

We owe a huge debt of gratitude to Ricky Campbell and AP Timing for organizing and handling these races, which have become one of our major fundraisers supporting the Elk River Trail Foundation!

We can’t wait to welcome runners, walkers, volunteers, and spectators to the Elk River Trail this spring and later this fall. Whether you come for the race, the scenery, or the chance to spot something mysterious in the woods, you’re sure to leave with a story to tell.

SCAN THE QR CODES BELOW TO REGISTER

ELK RIVER BIGFOOT

HALF MARATHON/10K/5K

MAY 31, 2026 | DUNDON

ELK RIVER BRAXTON CO. MONSTER

HALF MARATHON/10K/5K

SEPTEMBER 13, 2026 | GASSAWAY

COOL AS A CUCUMBER

Growing Tips & Favorite Varieties from Local Gardens

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!

I asked around to see what varieties folks in our community are loving, and here are a few favorites:

Boston Pickling came highly recommended by Vanessa and Betsy. This heirloom produces plenty of small, 3–4 inch cucumbers that are perfect for dill pickles. And both ladies agree—fresh dill makes all the difference!

them plenty of room to grow, roughly 12 to 18 inches apart. Those vines like to stretch out, and a little extra space helps them soak up the nutrients and sunshine they need.

Water plays a big role, especially early on. Young cucumber plants have shallow roots, so they depend on consistent moisture near the surface. If the soil dries out for too long, growth can suffer. Aim to keep the soil evenly moist. A deep watering a few times a week is better than a light daily sprinkle, as it encourages roots to grow deeper and stay strong during the heat of summer. Try to water at the base of the plant and keep the leaves dry to help prevent disease.

Morning sunshine is a gardener’s best friend. It warms the soil after cool nights and helps dry off any lingering moisture on the leaves, reducing the risk of fungal issues. Good airflow is just as important; when plants have space to breathe, leaves dry faster after rain or watering, helping prevent mildew and other common problems. If you’ve got the space, consider adding a trellis, fence, or even cattle panels (Frank swears by those). Letting cucumbers climb keeps them cleaner and makes picking a whole lot easier. Just be sure to set up your support early because those vines can take off before you know it!

Tasty Green, a favorite of my former Girl Scout Bell, was new to me. This hybrid variety grows long, dark green cucumbers (9–12 inches) that are thin-skinned, crisp, juicy, and just a little sweet. They hold up well in our hot, humid summers and are great for snacking, salads, and even pickling.

White Spine, Teresa’s pick, is a classic heirloom dating back to the 1800s. These medium-green slicing cucumbers grow about 7–8 inches long and are known for their tender crunch. They’re easy to grow and do well in full sun.

Marketmore 76 was mentioned by several gardeners. Developed by Cornell University, this reliable variety produces dark green cucumbers about 8–9 inches long and is known for its strong disease resistance.

National Pickling, introduced in 1924, is another go-to for pickle lovers. These “picklers” stay crisp and soak up brine beautifully, making them ideal for both dill pickles and gherkins.

Of course, there’s always that one family member—my cousin Brad—who says his favorite cucumbers are simply “the green ones.” But did you know there are plenty of other colors to try?

late 1800s, produces striking white cucumbers that are crisp and perfect for fresh eating.

Crystal Apple, originally from Australia, grows small, apple-shaped cucumbers that are mild, sweet, and easy to enjoy right off the vine.

rich in potassium and antioxidants, and they can support everything from weight management to bone health. For the most fiber, enjoy them with the skin on.

And one last thing: I’m on the hunt for a good dill pickle recipe! If you have a favorite (or any garden recipe you love), be sure to share it. We always enjoy featuring local recipes here in Elk River Living.

MOTHERS DAY IS MAY 10TH

RECOGNIZING THE SIGNS OF A STROKE

May is Stroke Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of early stroke detection and the role rehabilitation plays in recovery. Stroke is one of the leading causes of long-term disability, but quick medical care followed by physical therapy can greatly improve a person’s ability to return to daily activities.

Recognizing stroke symptoms early is critical. The easiest way to remember the warning signs is the BE FAST method:

Sudden dizziness, loss of balance or coordination.

Sudden trouble seeing out of one or both eyes.

One side of the face may droop or feel numb. Ask the person to smile and check if the smile is uneven.

One arm may feel weak or numb. Ask the person to raise both arms and see if one drifts downward.

Speech may be slurred, hard to understand, or the person may not be able to speak.

Time to

If any of these signs are present, call emergency services immediately. Quick treatment can save brain function and reduce disability.

Other warning signs may include confusion, severe headache, or numbness on one side of the body. Acting fast allows medical providers to begin treatment as soon as possible, which can greatly affect recovery.

After medical stabilization, physical therapy becomes a key part of stroke rehabilitation. Many stroke survivors experience weakness, difficulty walking, poor balance, and decreased endurance. Physical therapy focuses on improving strength, coordination, mobility, and safety with daily activities. Treatment may include gait training, balance exercises, stretching, and functional tasks such as getting in and out of a chair, climbing stairs, or returning to work and hobbies.

Physical therapy also helps reduce fall risk, improve confidence, and teach patients and family members safe ways to move at home. Recovery after a stroke takes time and consistency. The brain has the ability to adapt through a process called neuroplasticity, which allows new pathways to form with repeated practice. The sooner rehabilitation begins, the better the potential for improvement. Continuing exercises and staying active after therapy ends can help maintain progress and reduce the risk of future strokes.