Issuu

VOLUME 03 | ISSUE 03 | MAR 2021 FREE

ELK RIVER LIVING Nature-Child Reunion Elk River Author Connie Nelson has released her first children's book, creating and nurturing nature connections to engage, enlighten, entertain and educate.

Elk River Baking Co.

2020

PINCH VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT

presents

HONORARY AWARDS

Debbie Samples, owner, has opened a new bakery on Main Street in Clendenin, offering amazing baked goods plus a delicious breakfast and lunch menu.

Collegiate Gridmen Two HHHS gridmen have signed to play collegiate football. Brayden Rollyson will play for Glenville State College and Trey Chapman will play for WV State University.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 16 Feature Story: Outstanding Leadership and Dedication “Some of our members have done this mentally- and physically-challenging job for longer than many people work a regular job." --PVFD Chief John Thaxton

New Bakery Joins the ER Business Community "I am looking forward to seeing both new and old customers at my new location at 12 Main Street in Clendenin.” --Debbie Samples, Owner

A Cup of Sassafrass Tea Harold Sylvie Proctor of Quick, WV, loved sassafras tea, a popular beverage that is known for its distinct flavor and aroma that resembles root beer.

Family Business Celebrates 50 Years of Service

Welcome Back to Elk River Living!

Say Cheese! with Jill Moles Mullins

Our Proud Sponsors

Field of Dreams: HHHS Athletes

At the Library

Elk Reflects: Remembering Jim Hayes

The Elk's Cookbook

The Elk's Journal

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

HPS Company has provided over 50 years of continual, family-owned and operated, service to the businesses and citizens of West Virginia.

FROM THE EDITOR

HELLO

& Welcome Back!

his month ERL is proud to recognize the Pinch Volunteer Fire Department and the outstanding volunteers who selflessly donate their time and energy to take care of all of us in Pinch and the neighboring communities. Firefighter Austin McCormick shared this month’s cover photo which is one of my favorites.The gorgeous sunset reflecting on Engine 21 says volumes to me. Magnificence, beauty, strength, power, comfort -- all come to mind. It truly symbolizes the heroes who protect us every day. Speaking of dedication, our business spotlight this month is HPS Company which is celebrating 50 years serving our community and our state. It has evolved into a multi-faceted company, owned and operated by the third generation of the Frank Porta family. Exciting news in this issue includes the opening of Elk River Bakery Company in Clendenin. Believe me, it’s worth the drive for a quick breakfast/ lunch and delicious homemade baked goods. Elk River Floral LLC is sponsoring a beginning photography class at the Jackson Building in Clendenin, instructed by our own talented, award-winning, Elk River photographer, Jill Moles Mullins. Liz Wilkes of Flat Hollow Farm LLC shared her story this month depicting the history of her family’s delicious sassafras tea and Elk River author Connie Nelson officially announced the publication of her first children’s book. Also, nothing brings a smile more than honoring two Hoover gridmen, Brayden Rollyson and Trey Chapman, who recently signed contracts to play collegiate football. Good things are happening on the River! More to come next issue! It’s a pleasure to highlight our wonderful community!

Remember, there’s no place like home...on the Elk River. cyndi@elkriverliving.com

304.546.9243

Editor In Chief /

Cyndi Tawney

Creative Director /

Josh Tawney

Operations Director /

Ken Tawney

E L K R IVER

Guest Photographers /

Joe Hoover, April Curry

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 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.

On the cover: “Engine 21 on January 1, 2021,” was taken in Pinch at sunset by PVFD Firefighter Austin McCormick.

This month Joe Hoover and April Curry are contributing photographers to Elk River Living Magazine. We are thankful for their talent and love for the Elk River community. Joe is owner of Photography by Joe Hoover, and April Curry, is the owner of Photos by AC.

Joe Hoover

April Curry

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

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!

’s

OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES AFFILIATED FINANCE GROUP 304.935.2230 4508 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston

DEAN JEFFRIES, STATE FARM 304.965.6661 85 Credes Landing, Elkview

ANR CONSTRUCTION Randy Young, Jr. and Andrew Young 304.741.0377/304.546.6510

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

APRIL CURRY, XYNGULAR DISTRIBUTOR 304.935.2230 oneforthebooksllc@gmail.com

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

BECKY’S PET PARLOR 304.951.9162 Rebecca Briles & Kaitlyn Truman

ELK FAMILY DENTISTRY 304.965.6661 contact Joey Adkins, DDS

BIG CHIMNEY BAPTIST CHURCH 4626 Elk Shore Dr., Charleston

ELK HILL S MEMORIAL PARK 4705 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston 304.954.5721

BILL’S USED CARS Rt 119 Elk River Road 304.548.4727

ELK RIVER FLORAL LLC 9 Main St., Clendenin 304.548.8998

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

ELK RIVER AUTOMOTIVE 304.965.7501 contact Gary W. Pauley II

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

ELK RIVER AUTO. SUPPLY 304.965.5312 contact Glenn Pauley

CANDICE A. HAWLE Y, CPA PLLC 4628 Pennsylvania Ave, Charleston 304.965.5101

ELK RIVER AUTO. SUPPLY 304.965.5312 contact Glenn Pauley

CANTRELL’S FLORIST 304.548.7700 7484 Elk River Rd, Clendenin

ELK RIVER BOXING CLUB 5522 Elk River Rd. Elkview 681.313.6001

CENTRAL WV AGING SERVICES Local Charleston Office 304.965.9081

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

CLENDENIN PHARMACY 304.548.5451 Bill or Lindsay Ore Matuszkiewicz CREDE TRACTOR 304.965.1666 contact William Crede

ELK VALLEY ELECTRIC 304.419.5337 www.elkvalleyelectric.com

There’s no place like home!

ELK VALLEY PET CREMATORIUM Inside Elk Hills Memorial Park 4705 Pennsylvania Ave., Charleston 304.965.0148 ELK VALLEY PHYSICAL THERAPY 304.965.7979 contact Andi Geary, MPT ELITE ROOFING 304.989.4792 www.eliteroofingwv.com E.L. ROBINSON ENGINEERING 5088 Washington St W, Charleston 304.776.7473 elrobinsonengineering.com FLAT HOLLOW FARM LLC Quick, WV 304.965.8008 FORD AND SWEENEY 304.935.4801 51 Crede's Landing, Elkview FROSTBITE DAIRY BAR 1 Cobb Ave., Clendenin 304.548.7413 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 HAFER FUNERAL HOME & MYER’S CHAPEL 304.965.3331 / 304.965.3341 haferfuneralhome.net HARDINGS FAMILY RESTAURANT 304.344.5044 I-79 Exit 1, Mink Shoals

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 ERL? contact cyndi@elkriverliving.com or 304.546.9243

HPS COMPANY INC. 3207 Pennsylvania Avenue, Charleston 304.343.7515 IDEAL PROTEIN Charleston Family Chiropractic 308 Patrick St. Plaza, Charleston 304.344.9077 JAYS REMODELING 315 Surface Dr. Charleston 304.205.0914

MARA ELLIS, OLD COLONY 304.541.7336 1205 Virginia St East, Chas. mellis@oldcolony.com

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MATICS FUNERAL HOME 304.548.6611 maticsfuneralhome.com

SMITH’S CARPET ONE SMITH’S FURNITURE & APPLIANCE 304.965.7111 & 304.965.7600 Big Chimney & Elkview, WV

MEADOWBROOK ACRES NURSING CENTER 877.474.7332 www.meadowbrookacres.net

SMITH’S FURNITURE & APPLIANCE 304.965.7600 Elkview, WV

MITCH’S 24 HR TOWING 304.965.6646 contact Mitch Young

SOLID ROCK CONTRACTING 304.444.4288 contact Phil Shaffer

MOLLOHAN AUTO BODY 304.437.2195 2026 Waters Edge Dr., Elkview

SPECIAL OCCASIONS 304.965.5434 specialoccasionflowers.com

MOMMA PAYNE’S DINER 304.543.9930 14 Main St, Clendenin

SPENCER’S HARDWARE 304.548.6995 8290 Elk River Rd. N, Clendenin

MOUNTAINEER AUCTION 304.548.4056 contact Roger Mullins

THE CHOP SHOP, KAYLEE WEHRLE 3202 Penn. Ave. (Elk Hills) Text or call 304.552.9924

MT. PLEASANT BAPTIST CHURCH 304.965.7062 mpbcwv.org

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

KNIGHT INSURANCE 304.548.4726 knightinsurance@frontier.com

ONE FOR THE BOOKS 304.552.3956 oneforthebooksllc.com

KNIGHTHORST 877.474.7332 www.knighthorst.com

PENNY PINCHERS 304.548.4005 11 Main St., Clendenin

WALLY'S SUPERIOR PARTS & SERVICE 5100 Elk River Rd., N., Elkview 304.935.2287

LEGACY FOODS For Delivery Call: 304.545.0802

RODNEY LOFTIS & SON 95 Casdorph Rd., Charleston 304.342.8200 and on Facebook

LIBERTY TAX SERVICE 15 Main St., Clendenin 304.548.5820

ROGERS HARDWARE 304.965.1077 Contact Bill Rogers

LOGAN TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY Call or Text 304.941.7622 INSTAGRAM: @logantaylorphotagraphy

SCOTT ’S SERVICE & AUTO REPAIR 311C Elk River Road, S., Clendenin 681.230.2151

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 KEITH'S AUTO PARTS VW Specialists 6328 Elk River Rd, N. Clendenin 304.548.7627/1-800-RACE-A-VW

Xspec POWER 304.746.1139 contact Emily Canterbury YAK HOUSE RENTALS 304.941.2229 Yakhouserentals.com

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

HOLSTEIN INSURANCE 304.965.9941 holsteininsuranceagencyinc.com

AT THE LIBRARY

If you have an upcoming event and would like to be featured, please contact us:

cyndi@elkriverliving.com

304-965-3636

March Schedule of Virtual Events

All events are hosted online. For more details, see www.kanawhalibrary.org

Adults:

Children & Family:

Elk Valley Book Group Tuesday, March 16, 2 p.m. Everyone is invited to a Zoom discussion of our monthly book. For the title of the book please contact the Elk Valley Branch Library. Copies of the book will be available for checkout at the Elk Valley circulation desk or download from Hoopla or Libby. New members are always welcome. Registration is required. Registration begins February 16. Zoom.

Virtual Storytime Wednesdays, March 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31, 10:30 a.m. Enjoy a new story with us on Facebook. Plus suggestions for other books.

Teens:

1st Chapter Fridays Fridays, March 5, 12, 19 & 26, 3 p.m. Sneak peek of a variety of chapter books on Facebook.

Teens: Anime Afternoon Online Thursdays, March 4 & 18, 3:30 p.m. Join us on our Discord server as we chat and watch different anime shows! Discord Game Night Fridays, March 5 & 19, 8 p.m. Join us on Discord for our game night! Teen Virtual D&D Club Saturday, March 13, Noon Join us on our Discord server and roll20.net as we play our monthly D&D session- now online! New players always welcome.

MARCH 2021

Teens: send your Discord username to andrew.stanley@kanawhalibrary.org to be invited to the server.

5 Word Story Thursdays, March 4, 11, 18 & 25, 4 p.m. What’s happening in this picture? Tell us in 5 words on Facebook!

Family STEM Saturday, March 20, 2 p.m. Join the Kanawha County Public Library as we explore a science concept! We will read books about the topic covered and show science in action. Family Storytime Saturday, March 27, 2 p.m. In this storytime, a Children’s librarian will read books and guide participants through rhymes and activities about a theme that families will enjoy!

All Ages: Plant a Flower Day Friday, March 12, All Day March 12th is national plant a flower day! Stop by the Elk Valley Branch Library between 11 a.m.- 4 p.m. to pick up your take home flower planting kit. All materials provided.

Children’s programming sponsored by the BB&T West Virginia Foundation

Cantrell’s Florist 304.548.7700

7484 Elk River Rd • Clendenin Mon - Fri 9am-5pm Sat 9am - Noon

MITCH YOUNG OWNER

MITCH’S 24 HR TOWING 100 FRAME ROAD ELKVIEW, WV 25071

304.965.6646

Candice A. Hawley cpa

P.O. Box 4537 • Charleston, WV 25364 Phone: (304) 965-5101 • Fax: (304) 965-5102 Email: chawley@candicehawley.com

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

CII

ROAD SERVICE KEY LOCK-OUT SERVICING WEST VIRGINIA

THE

ELK’S COOKBOOK SHEPHERD'S PIE By Gabi Strickland Walker

or March, let’s be a wee bit Irish in honor of St. Patrick’s Day and try Gabi Strickland Walker’s Shepherd’s Pie. This is a really easy recipe that will wow a family or a crowd. You can make it with ground lamb (as traditional) or ground beef or chicken. The creamy cheesy mashed potatoes are a perfect complement to the meat mixture and gravy underneath.

INGREDIENTS Potato Layer •

2 lbs. Potatoes (we prefer Yukon gold), peeled and cubed

•

5 whole garlic cloves, peeled

•

4 T butter

•

¼ cup sour cream

•

¼ cup milk, warmed

•

4 T cream cheese

•

½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

•

1 t Laury’s Seasoning Salt

•

Salt and Pepper to taste

MARCH 2021

Meat Filling

•

1 lb. ground chuck (or ground lamb or ground chicken)

•

2 T butter

•

2 cloves garlic, minced

•

16 oz. bag peas, carrots and corn medley (the mix I used had green beans, too)

•

2 T flour

•

½ cup beef broth (or vegetable or chicken broth if using lamb or chicken as your meat)

•

1 T tomato paste

Topping

•

1 T Worcestershire sauce

•

1/3 cup panko bread crumbs

•

1 t dried rosemary

•

1/3 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

•

1/2 t dried thyme

•

2 T butter

•

1/2 t dried marjoram

IN G.C OM

IV ELKRIVERL

DIRECTIONS

Step 1 •

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray a 9 x 13 baking dish with nonstick cooking spray. Boil the potatoes and whole garlic cloves in water to cover until fork tender and then drain the water.

Step 2 •

Add the butter, sour cream, warmed milk, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, salt and pepper to taste and mash the potatoes with a hand masher or mixer until you reach your favorite mashed potato consistency. Set aside.

Step 3 •

In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and drain any excess grease. Set aside. Add 2 T butter to the skillet and cook the onions until soft; add the garlic and cook another 1-2 minutes. Return cooked ground beef to the onion and garlic mixture.

Step 4 •

In the same skillet, add the frozen vegetables and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Sprinkle the flour over the meat and veggies and stir to mix.

Step 5 •

Add the tomato paste and stir to mix in. Then add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. Bring to a simmer and then reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 10 minutes. Add additional broth if necessary to prevent the meat from drying out.

Step 6 •

Remove from heat. Spread the meat mixture in an even layer in a prepared 9 x 13 baking dish.

Step 7 •

In a small bowl, combine the Panko bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese. Melt 2 T butter and drizzle over topping, stir to combine. Set aside.

Step 8 •

Top the meat mixture with the mashed potatoes, making an even layer of potatoes. Top the mashed potatoes with the panko mixture.

Step 9 •

Place the dish in the oven and bake for 30 minutes until brown and bubbly. Turn on broiler if needed and brown the topping an additional 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Top the meat mixture with the mashed potatoes, making an even layer of potatoes. Top the mashed potatoes with the panko mixture.

•

(NOTE from Gabi: Optional - instead of panko topping, use an additional 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese. Bake casserole for 30 minutes and then remove from oven, add the cheese, and return to oven until melted)

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

D US YO SEN UR

CIPE RE

MARCH 2021

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OUTSTANDING LEADERSHIP & DEDICATION

PVFD

2020 AWARDS

MARCH 2021

his month ERL would like to recognize some outstanding young men and women with the Pinch Volunteer Fire Department (PVFD). At the annual General Membership Meeting, the PVFD voted on Board of Directors vacancies and presented awards for 2020 Top Runners, Length of Service, Probation to Full Member, and a Special Deputy Sheriff and Paramedics Recognition.

The new PVFD Board of Directors consists of 13 positions, 12 of which are elected and the last position is held by the Fire Chief. These positions are for a 2-year term. New positions elected for this year were Vice President Jon Coleman, Secretary Todd Crowder, and four new members-at-large including Jeff Kessler, Scott Lucas, Corey Carr, and Garrin Hodge. Other members of the Board include Chief John Thaxton, President Chris Avis, Treasurer Charlie Cunningham, and Members-atLarge Steve Teel, Jason Anderson, Phil Shaffer and Justin Teel.

A special thanks to Charlie Cunningham of the Pinch Volunteer Fire Department for sharing photos and information for this article.

TOP RUNNERS At the General Membership Meeting each year, PVFD recognizes their top 10 runners. This year they had a tie for 10th place so 11 members received awards. Also, even though the Chief traditionally abstains from being one of the top 10 runners, the Department recognized Chief John Thaxton who was the Top Runner for 2020. Top Runners were Chris Avis, Charlie Cunningham, Austin McCormick, Scott Lucas, Todd Crowder, Corey Carr, Jon Coleman, Jason Anderson, Cole Weese, Aaron Lilly, and Dave Bentley (not pictured) Cole Weese

Todd Crowder

Aaron Lilly

Austin McCormick

Charlie Cunningham

Chris Avis

Corey Carr

Jason Anderson

Jon Coleman

Scott Lucas

LENGTH OF SERVICE Several members were recognized for Length of Service Awards. Chief Thaxton commented, “Some of our members have done this mentally- and physicallychallenging job for longer than many people work a regular job. This exemplifies the type of dedication exemplified by members of the PVFD.” Awards were presented to Matt McCallister, 5 years; Adam Neal, 15 years, and Doug Douglas, 35 years.

Adam Neel

Doug Douglas

... have done this mentally - and physically challenging job for longer than many people work a regular job."

Matt McCallister

NEW PARAMEDIC RECOGNITION

MARCH 2021

Also, PVFD would like to congratulate Firefighter Joel Parsons for recently passing his National Registry Paramedic Exam. He is the 12th paramedic on the PVFD roster. He also serves as a Firefighter/ EMT for Charleston Fire Department and will be transitioning to a Firefighter/Paramedic since he passed his paramedic exam. His wife, Ashley, is also a firefighter for the PVFD.

Joel and Ashley Parsons

Deputy Sheriff Bryan Crosier

Paramedics Lauren Sparks and Nick Blankenship

DEPUTY SHERIFF AND PARAMEDIC RECOGNITION The PVFD recognized and presented special recognition awards to Kanawha County Deputy Sheriff Bryan Crosier and two Kanawha County Paramedics, Lauren Sparks and Nick Blankenship. Fire Chief John Thaxton said, “This award is for their hard work that made for a much improved outcome and for the great working relationship PVFD has with both departments to provide exceptional service to the citizens of Kanawha County.” Chief Thaxton explained, “On January 3, 2021, PVFD was alerted of a working residential structure fire and prior to our arrival on the scene, Paramedics Lauren Sparks and Nick Blankenship along with Kanawha County Deputy Bryan Crosier arrived first and went above and beyond their normal specified duties. These outstanding individuals successfully rescued several pets and were able to keep the kitchen fire in check with a water hose until the fire units arrived. This minimized the damage to the rest of the structure as well.”

Logan Steenburgh

Michael Hammock

PROBATION TO FULL MEMBERS AWARDS PVFD presented three members with their firefighter helmet shield which signifies these members have completed their probationary period and are now full members of the department: Logan Steenburgh, Michael Hammack, and Hunter Douglas. Doug Douglas, who has been with the PVFD for 35 years, presented the helmet shield to his son, Hunter Douglas.

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Hunter Douglas

oneforthebooksllc@gmail.com

DECEMBER 2020

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NEW BAKERY JOINS THE ELK RIVER BUSINESS COMMUNITY

RL is excited to welcome a new bakery to the town of Clendenin! Elk River Baking Company is located at 12 Main Street and the owner, Debbie Samples, is excited to be a part of the Elk River business community. She also has her amazing baked goods at Small Town Market in Clay. Debbie is looking forward to seeing both new and old customers at her new location in Clendenin. Delicious vanilla cream horns, hot cocoa cupcakes with marshmallow buttercream and peppermint sprinkles, German chocolate cupcakes, fresh baked pies, homemade fudge, delicious cakes and holiday minicakes, and homemade breads are just a few of the items on this month’s shelves. They offer a breakfast menu including homemade bacon and egg biscuits or sausage, egg and cheese, buttermilk biscuits, sausage and gravy, bacon, eggs, and waffles with fruit or syrup. Their daily lunch specials include popular items such as chicken salad, BBQ on a kaiser roll. Also, if you are looking for a customized birthday or event cake, Elk River Baking is your perfect choice. Additional items are available upon request on days when the bakery is closed. Call Debbie at 304.651.6910 for more information or to pre-order items. The Elk River Baking Company is open Thursday and Friday starting at 8 am until 5 PM. Debbie is planning to open another day so watch for updates in the future. You can also follow them and see daily specials on Facebook/ Elk River Baking Company and message them.

304-935-2230 304-935-2230 www.afingrp.com

4508 Pennsylvania Ave. 4508 Pennsylvania Ave. Charleston, WV 25302

www.afingrp.com

objectives, using the most efficient methods available.”

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Brad McDaniel Agent Brad McDaniel 304-553-2812

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*Located in Big Chimney across from Little Smiths Grocery Store/Smiths Hardware

Securities offered through J.W. Cole Financial. Inc. (JWC). Member FINRA/SIPC .Affiliated Financial Group Inc. and JWC are unaffiliated entities. Brad McDaniel is not associated with J.W.Cole Financial, Inc.

*Located in Big Chimney across from Little Smiths Grocery Store/Smiths Hardware

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**Legal documents prepared by attorney

MITCH YOUNG

M MATICS

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

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ave you always wanted to learn how to take good photos? Elk River Floral LLC is offering a beginning photography class, instructed by award-winning photographer, Jill Moles Mullins. Jill is a juried artist at Tamarack--The Best of WV, and has won numerous awards for her outstanding photography. Here is your chance to learn from one of the best! Most recently, two of Jill’s pictures are being featured (and are for sale) in the Tamarack gallery show, Hindsight is 2020: A Distilling of An Unparalleled Time, now through February 21, 2021. Participants in the beginning photography class can learn on their smartphones or any type of camera. Pam Allen, owner of Elk River Floral LLC said, “Whether you want to take pictures of your children, grandchildren, events, pets, wildlife…you name it...you can do it. Jill is an amazing photographer and instructor.”

MARCH 2021

The next beginning photography class is a two-part class and will be held on Saturday, March 20 and 27. The fee for the two-part class is $75 and the class is limited to 10. To register, just go to Elk River Floral LLC on Facebook. If you have any questions, you can send a message via Facebook messenger/Elk River Floral LLC. The class will meet at the old Jackson building at 13 Main Street in Clendenin at 9 AM.

Instructor Jill Moles Mullins said, “This course will teach you basic fundamentals of photography, including exposure, rule of thirds, shutter speed, and manual mode. You will also gain handy photography editing tips. No fancy camera is required; anything from DSLR, Point and Click and even a smartphone is all you need. No prior knowledge of photography is required - this course is geared for beginners. You will learn how to compose photos that are well balanced and pleasing to the eye, Aperture, Shutter Speed, ISO Settings, and basic Post-Production editing. You will walk away from this class with the ability to take stunning photographs that tell stories of your vacations and adventures plus capture memories in the process.”

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A Cup of Sassafras Tea

ND THE OU

ELK

Submitted by Guest Author Liz Wilkes of Flat Hollow Farm, LLC

arold Sylvie Proctor of Quick, WV, loved sassafras tea, a popular beverage that is known for its distinct flavor and aroma that resembles root beer. Born on October 12, 1900, he was a home-remedy person and frequently enjoyed a cup of his homemade sassafras tea. Even though research on the effects of sassafras tea is inconclusive, some people believe there are health benefits to drinking it to reduce inflammation, act as a diuretic, and offer protection against infections such as leishmaniasis (Healthline.com: Sassafras Tea: Health Benefits and Side Effects).

MARCH 2021

Harold had six children, and his son, Major, remembers a story of growing up and harvesting sassafras. As a young boy, Harold would have Major hunt and harvest the roots because his dad believed “there’s no lesson like a learnt lesson”. A comical story about the sassafras tree involved a sassafras limb and a hateful goat named Billy. Major said Billy had big horns and would chase and ram him into the house. He even remembers the goat coming in the house after him! He said he tried to defend himself by holding the goat’s horns and attempting to knock him down. He tried using hickory limbs on the goat but he paid no attention. He will never forget, however, using a sassafras limb to stop Billy. He said, “Sassafras limbs may be light, but when they are dry, they are reliable for defense.”

When it was tea-making time, Harold would place two large handfuls of sassafras roots into a five-quart pot. His son, Major, even had a designated pot for making sassafras tea. Harold would fill the pot almost to the brim with spring water. Next, he would bring it to a boil for approximately 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse and then remove from heat or simmer to keep warm. Finally, he would fill his cup and stir in two tablespoons of sugar or more to taste. This same pot of tea and roots will last for 5-7 days, reheating as many times as desired. The next time you are ready for a cup of tea, fill the pot back up with spring water, bring it to

‘almost’ a boil and then lower to keep warm. The tea will improve with every cup! The flavor is extracted from the roots when heated. The tea can be stored on the stove or counter. Filling up the pot with spring water each time, reheating the tea and enjoying cup after cup can be a week-long affair with just one pot of roots! The tea can be combined with ginger, cinnamon, cloves, all-spice, or aniseed to enhance the flavor if desired. Some people also use the sassafras mixture as a potpourri. For tea, the roots must be harvested at least after the first frost so that the sap goes down into the roots. The roots may be stored in a dry cool place to be enjoyed year round. You can contact Liz Wilkes of Flat Hollow Farm LLC to purchase sassafras roots. They are available for pickup ($17/lb.) or shipping ($25/lb.). For more information call 304.965.8008 or email her at flathollowfarm@ gmail.com.

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New Field of Dreams for Two HHHS Athletes

lk River Living is proud to recognize two outstanding HHHS Huskie football players, Brayden Rollyson and Trey Chapman. These two Hoover gridmen have been an indispensable part of the Hoover Huskies and have now signed to continue their careers in college. Brayden Rollyson signed with Glenville State College and Trey Chapman signed with West Virginia State University (WVSU).

L-R Trey Chapman, Coach Fields, and Brayden Rollyson

Jake Rollyson, Glen Kennedy, and Justin Rollyson

Brayden is the son of Aimee Ore Rollyson and the late Jake Rollyson of Clendenin. He is carrying on the family tradition at Glenville State College. His dad, Jason “Jake”, played lineman at Concord and then transferred to Glenville and played from 1995-1997. While he was there, Glenville recruited Jake’s brother, Justin, and he played safety at Glenville from 1995 -1997. Their mother, Janet Rollyson, said, “They both actually played on the same team. That was when Coach Rodriguez was there and Glenville won several WVIAC Conference Championships.”

MARCH 2021

Both Jake and Justin played at Herbert Hoover High School (HHHS). Justin’s (Jessica Nickoson, mother) son, Colten, graduated from HHHS in 2017 and played spring ball at Glenville. Colten is back at Glenville this year and is going to try out for the team this fall. Janet said, “It would be exciting to watch my two grandsons play for Glenville on the same team just like I watched their dads.”

Brayden comes from a family of Hoover athletes in addition to his dad, Jake, Uncle Justin, and cousin Colten Rollyson. Other family athletes include his brother, Cody Bowen who played football and baseball at Hoover (in 2013 they won the WV AA State Baseball Championship), and his Uncle Jacob Ore, who played baseball and football at Hoover. His little sister, Reese, age 11, plays softball for Clendenin Little League. Brayden has excelled at football, wrestling and baseball at HHHS. This spring he is concentrating on baseball where he is a pitcher and third baseman for the Hoover Varsity. He will continue his weightlifting after baseball season until he reports to Glenville State College this summer.

Trey Chapman is the son of George and Michelle Chapman of Elkview. He excelled at basketball and football at HHHS but decided to play football at WVSU. Trey’s dad, George, said, “When he considered all of the options that were important to him, WVSU was a clear winner.” Trey plans to major in physical therapy, and WVSU has a strong undergraduate program. Additionally, the sports program has an excellent coaching staff. Coach John Pennington and Coach Quincy Wilson both played for West Virginia University and Coach Wilson continued on to play pro ball as well. George said, “When Trey talked with Coach Pennington, we were really impressed with the points he made. First, we want you only if you want to be here as a member of the football team and secondly, we want to explore your skill set on the field and discover where your strengths are and how you can best work with the team. The fact that he cared about Trey and what would work best for him and for the team was reassuring. Also, there is a strong emphasis on success, both on and off the field.” Trey will start lifting and conditioning with the WVSU football team the day after he graduates from Hoover and then will start practicing at the end of July. Until then he will remain active with his academics, HHHS varsity basketball where he is one of the team captains, all of his senior-year activities, church, and the youth open gym program at Elkview Baptist Church.

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Trey Chapman and Claire Oliver

Brayden signing event

Both boys are excited to start a new chapter in their lives. ERL is proud to recognize these two athletes and wishes them continued success.

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THE

ELK REFLECTS

JIM HAYES, HHHS CLASS OF 1965

HIGH SCORER AND ALL-STATE RECOGNITION

his month ERL remembers Herbert Hoover High School (HHHS) 1965 graduate Jim Hayes, who held the scoring record in basketball at Hoover from 1963 to 2020. By the way, in 1963 there were no 3-point shots and he only attended the newly built HHHS during his 11th and 12th grade year which makes this record even more memorable. Jim led the Kanawha Valley Conference in scoring and averaged about 28 points per game for Hoover.

MARCH 2021

Jim attended Morris Harvey College (now University of Charleston) where he was inducted into the Morris Harvey College Basketball of Fame. A news clipping from the Charleston Daily Mail in the Elk River Communities Museum stated that, “Hayes was sought by several big colleges (WVU, Virginia Tech, and North Carolina State University) but chose local Morris Harvey College where he felt he could obtain a good education and play basketball without the pressure of big time basketball.” While there, he played with several other talented young men from Kanawha County, including Roger Hart from former Charleston High School and Jim Fout from Dupont High School.

He graduated from college in 1969 and went to work for Kanawha County Schools in the fall of 1969 at Woodrow Wilson Junior High School. Jim said, “In the fall of 1970 I was back at my alma mater, HHHS, teaching math and coaching, a dream come true! I give credit to Mr. Jim Hamrick for his choice of the math and coaching combination. I was fortunate to have some great mentors in my lifetime.” In the spring of 1978, Jim left HHHS to go to the oil industry as a safety and training manager for an oil and gas drilling company. After two years, he purchased an Exxon service station in Clendenin, which he said, “was another dream come true, to own my own business.” Jim realized he missed teaching and working with kids and in 1984, he sold the station and went to work in the fall of 1985 at Geary School in Roane County where his wife was already teaching. During the summer of 1986 they inquired about teaching in Berkeley County, South Carolina and both were offered jobs. Jim coached and taught at Hanahan High School for 22 years and was an administrator for 5 years at Goose Creek High School before retiring in 2013. Jim said, “I had 37 years of teaching and coaching and I do not regret one day of those years. In fact, I have had a very blessed life.”

ERL would also like to feature any of your Elk River memories. Contact Cyndi Tawney at 304.546.9243, or cyndi@elkriverliving.com, or go to elkriverliving.com

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Jim and his wife now reside in Moncks Corner, South Carolina. He married his junior high school sweetheart, Sharon Dye Hayes and they have been married for 53 years. They have two daughters, Shelley and Jessica (who are also school teachers), and 5 grandchildren. Jim is the son of the late Delmar and Mary Campbell Hayes of Walker Addition (Walker Bottom) in Elkview.

READERS' SUBMISSIONS

his month’s reader submissions depict our beautiful winter season. We received several winterscape photos, so we decided to share them all with you. We haven’t had a winter this lovely in years!

Also, did you know we have other Elk River communities in our country? Elk River Living received this photo from Natalie Layne in Elk River, Minnesota. She said, “My husband and I, along with our four children, moved up to Elk River this past November 2020 from Minneapolis. Upon one of our adventures to get to know the area around us, we decided to check out the William H. Houlton Conservation Area--wow, I am so glad we did! The Conservation Area is absolutely stunning! As a photographer my heart was leaping with joy seeing all the picturesque spots along the walking trail.”

Natalie Layne

MARCH 2021

Thank you, Natalie, for the gorgeous sister-Elk River photos.

Julia Williams Givens

Byron Young

Mary Jane Wheeling

Lydia Beirnes

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

MARCH 2021

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FAMILY BUSINESS CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF SERVICE

t’s not often you find a business that has served the community and our state for 50 years, much less a business that is in its third generation of family operation. HPS Company is the exception!

From Charleston to Huntington, Parkersburg to Morgantown, Philippi to Princeton, and all points in between, HPS Company has provided over 50 years of continual, family-owned and operated, service to the businesses and citizens of West Virginia. From what began as a modest hydraulic hose shop that serviced the mining communities of the Kanawha Valley, HPS Company has evolved into a multi-faceted company that still proudly serves the citizens in and around the greater Charleston area. The story of HPS Company’s origin ultimately begins in a quaint little Italian town called Brienza, Italy. It was there, around 1912, that Giuseppe Lovito – later known as Frank Porta -- decided to leave the Old Country to settle in the United States. In 1925, after settling in West Virginia, landing an American bride and establishing a tailor shop in Charleston, his son Frank L. Porta was born. After a stint in the United States Marine Corps and, upon graduating from Dartmouth College in 1947, the younger Frank began a career at Union Carbide in South Charleston as a senior purchasing agent. It was there that Frank Porta (or “Big Frank” as he was commonly known in the Elk River community) began establishing and cultivating the business relationships that would help him create HPS Company Inc., a staple in the Elk River community since 1971.

MARCH 2021

Currently in its third generation of family operation by the Porta family, Frank L’s son Frank T. Porta, his brother Karl, and Karl’s son Matthew are all still involved in the day-to-day operations of the company. As was the case in 1971, HPS Company still prides itself on quality, personalized customer service, and affordability. Custom hydraulic hoses (for both commercial and residential applications), decades worth of specialized fittings and adapters, a urethane production facility, and a machine/fabrication shop, are all still part of the catalogue of services offered by HPS Company.

HPS Company, located at 3207 Pennsylvania Avenue, is open Monday through Friday 8:00 AM4:30 PM and welcomes walk-in appointments, advance orders, and general inquiries. You can find them on Facebook/HSP Company or give them a call at 304.343.7515. Be sure to tell them you saw their ad in Elk River Living magazine and get 10% off your next order (expires March 31, 2021).

Thank you to the Porta family for submitting the background for this article.

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

All Photo Credits: Joe Hoover

Elk River Nature Educator Sparks a Nature-Child Reunion With Her New Children’s book, “Oakie Dokie’s Happy Roots” - Grow up happy! Press Release Submitted by Constance (Connie) Nelson

“Someone wise once said, if trees had a voice, they could tell us some things about growing up…but trees don’t talk…or do they? Hold on for a big surprise!”

ntroducing the Bark Buddie Band of Trees®! Not your ordinary bashful, backyard trees, no siree, Bark Buddie Trees® are trunk yappin’, root tappin’, leaf clappin’, gettin-twiggy-with-it trees embarking on a mission to ROOT-4-KIDS! The Bark Buddie Band of Trees® gets kids motivated to kick up their roots with musical “ROOT-ines'' like the theme song, “The Root Skootin’ Boogie” while sharing valuable life, and STEAM curriculum lessons found only in nature! So who is the creative spirit behind this “tree-mendously'' fun and timely project?

Bark Buddie plush with Connie Nelson

Meet Connie Nelson, former global radio talk show host, member of the World Branding Hall of Fame, VirNatural Media Creator, Nature Educator, Pianist, Interior Designer and creator of the “Nature-Child Reunion” movement and founder of “Planting Tomorrows”, her former global radio talk show. Connie is all about planting seeds of motivation and inspiration to raise healthy, happy children! Her background in Education, her love for God’s creation, children and the wonders of nature, gave her the “out-spiration” inspiration to write her newly released children’s book, “OAKIE DOKIE’S HAPPY ROOTS – Grow Up Happy”! Through the voice of wise Big Bark Buddie Tree, young green sprout, Oakie Dokie Oak Tree discovers the six roots of character education to help him grow up strong and HAPPY! Connie has created and developed outdoor education programs and workshops for organizations such as the Boy Scouts of America, McDonalds, and numerous school, retail and cultural events. Her trademarked Big Bark Buddie® costumed tree character has appeared all over the country in parades, events and in school programs partnering with Walmart. Her newest project, her children’s book, has now been released for children around the world!

“Stopping by a sparkling stream to stick their roots in the cool water, Big Bark playfully

splashed Oakie, getting his attention, “When you put down strong roots, you will not be so easily talked into doing wrong things. Happy Roots keep you on the right path in life! “All young sprouts,even the people kind, need six strong roots to grow up happy!...Oakie started to perk up.”

Studies have shown that children exposed to the outdoors and nature perform higher academically and are healthier, happier and much more balanced in life. COVID has shown us the negative psychological and physical impact of being cooped up indoors. But outdoors, children are more fully alive, they learn the value of stewardship, time outdoors boosts self- esteem and immunity, enhances problem solving skills, builds mental and physical muscle “Plus, nature spaces stimulate children’s limitless imaginations, ignite their senses and instill a sense of caring for others …in a nutshell, they grow up happier”, Connie passionately says. “Nature-deficit disorder” is a term coined about 20 years ago to describe the growing disconnect of children with nature. Today, kids spend hours a week compared to minutes a week outdoors and the cost is being paid in terms of health and well-being. Connie’s books, workshops, outdoor educational programs and upcoming stage shows with the “Bark Buddie Band of Trees”, a four season band, will guide children to the new “FUN-TIER” – the GREAT OUTDOORS to grow up happier, healthier and smarter! Her Bark Buddie Tree® characters will be the voice of most of her books. “Children need nature like they need oxygen to be healthy.” cont'd on next page

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

Connie’s rural upbringing in the Elk River area and playing outdoors in the hills and creeks along with her father’s love of nature and God, gave her the strong roots to turn her creative talents and energy into her mission of sparking a “Nature-Child Reunion”. “Children are born with an innate sense of wonder for nature…my goal is to tap into that sense of wonder during the most impressionable season of a child’s life and harvest the wonder to educate, engage, enlighten and entertain.”

By partnering with local, regional and national corporations, schools systems and governments, Connie’s mission is growing more awareness about the need for children to balance their time between being indoors plugged into screens, devices and the greatest teacher of all, nature. “Nature is our best teacher, she unfolds her treasures to our search, unseals our eyes, illuminates our minds and purifies our hearts, one of my favorite quotes”, she goes on. Anything Microsoft offers in the virtual digital world cannot hold a candle to logging on to nature – the best playstation of all, no wires or wifi needed and it’s hands-on learning at its’ very best!” It’s crystal clear Connie’s passion for her “NatureChild Reunion” is contagious. Her newly released book is just one of many more in the “NatureChild Reunion” series coming down the road. “Connecting children to nature, connects them to God, naturally”, she emphasizes. “I’m on a mission to reconnect youngsters to the marvelous intelligence of nature by creating and nurturing nature connections across the media landscape, to engage, enlighten, entertain and educate. How can we expect a child to see the value of caring for others if they never see a bird with a broken wing or experience something so much bigger than their own little cocoon?”

MARCH 2021

“OAKIE DOKIE’S HAPPY ROOTS” is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, other retailers or through the publisher at www.westbowpress. com. Connie can be reached for “FUN-TIER Playday” workshops, tree planting events and for outdoor educational consulting projects by email at plantingtomorrows@suddenlink.net or call 304-545-8808. The hardback edition will make a keepsake gift for any child and stay tuned to her Facebook pages “Nature-Child Reunion” and “Bark Buddie Trees” for book signings, tree planting events and other outreach in the next few months.

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ELK’S JOURNAL OAKIE DOKIE'S HAPPY ROOTS

lk River native Constance (Connie) Nelson has released her first children’s book, Oakie Dokie’s Happy Roots: Grow Up Happy. She is the founder of “Planting Tomorrows'' and her mission of sparking a “Nature-Child Reunion”. Connie is also a former global Christian Radio Talk Show Host, Interior Designer, Nature Educator, VirNatural Media Creator, Pianist, Mother and Creator of the Bark Buddies Trees® along with other nature-rooted children’s educational media. She graduated from Herbert Hoover High School in 1973 and resides in Elkview, WV. In the voice of a young Bark Buddie Tree® named Oakie Dokie, and a older wise tree, Big Bark Buddie Tree, children discover the six roots of character education to help them grow up strong and happy.

Excerpt from Oakie Dokie’s Happy Roots:

See that spunky little Oak tree over there by the daisy field, playing with squirrels and a brightred bird perched on his branch? That’s Oakie Dokie, one of the young Bark Buddie TreeⓇ sprouts. Oakie Dokie is a young sprout in the Bark Buddie TreeⓇ family. They’re not your ordinary bashful, backyard trees. They’re trunk yapping’ talking that is, root tappin’ dancing that is, leaf clappin’ trees on a mission to root-for-the-kids like you! They live in a special hidden place, the Secret Valley. One day in early spring, Big Bark Buddie, the friendly guardian tree in the Secret Valley, was looking on as some of the young sprouts were playing a fun game of limbo. He noticed Oakie Dokie was not taking turns.

MARCH 2021

Do you always take turns?

Connie’s new book is available on Amazon in Kindle format, Paperback and Softback. ERL congratulates her on the release of her new book. She said, “There are more books in the works, to Re-Root kids to the new FUN-tier. The Great Outdoors for my Nature-Child Reunion, to help kids grow up happy, healthy and smart!”

ELKRIVERLIVING.COM

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