Applause to the official groundbreaking for the Elkins Gold Star Families Memorial Monument, which took place at the All-Veterans Memorial Park Thursday morning. The new monument will honor families who have lost a loved one in the line of service, also known as Gold Star Families. The monument will be located at the Memorial Park, at the intersection of Randolph and Railroad Avenues, joining the All-Veterans Memorial and the soon-to-be erected Rosie the Riveter statue. The Gold Star Families Memorial will be composed of a two-sided black granite monument and three granite benches. One side will bear the words “Gold Star Families Memorial Monument, a tribute to Gold Star Families and Relatives who sacrificed a Loved One for our Freedom.” The other side tells a story through the four granite panels entitled “Homeland, Family, Patriot, and Sacrifice” with graphics that are representative of the area where the monument is located. At the center of this tribute is a silhouette of a saluting service member, which represents the legacy of the loved ones who have paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Together, these features tell each community’s unique story based upon the “Pillars of the Foundation.”

Applause to Elliott James Harper, a member of Boy Scout Troop 88 in Elkins who recently earned the rank of Eagle Scout. Elliott’s community service activities have been focused on ministries such as Scouting for Food, Common Grounds Cafe and the Mountaineer Food Bank. Elliott is the first Eagle Scout in his family. He began his Scouting in first grade as a Cub Scout in Pack 88. He moved through the Cub Program, including attendance at Cub Scout Day Camp — Camp Mahonegon. When Elliott moved on to Troop 88, he began his climb to Eagle Scout. Leadership is an important part of scouting. Elliott went back to Cub Day Camp and served as a Den Chief, helping to lead young Cubs beginning in their scouting experience. In Troop 88, Elliott served as a Patrol Leader and Assistant Senior Patrol Leader.

Applause to the Hooked on Fishing Not on Drugs event returning this year on May 10 at the Phil Gainer Community Center. HOFNOD is a free event, and all activities are focused on promoting outdoor recreation and educating local youth about the dangers of drug use. It was estimated that approximately 1,000 kids participated in HOFNOD in 2024. In 2023, more than 600 kids registered for door prizes, and more than 1,000 people attended HOFNOD. Beginning at 10 a.m. and running until 3 p.m., this year’s HOFNOD will once again be full of activities, displays, entertainment and more for kids of all ages. Any organizations interested in participating with an outdoor recreation or anti-drug message — or any individuals or organizations who would like to support this year’s event as a sponsor — can call 304-642-8680 or email opeet@cityofelkinswv.com.