Honi Honi Bar at Deep Creek Lake

The Honi Honi bar is likely to be a hot spot this coming holiday week/weekend. It looks like it will be raining a good deal, but I am hopeful that we can get a few sunny days in for boating or fishing. It if is sunny, you can expect some great live bands during the day, and plenty of boating activity around.

Wild Turkeys at Sandy Beach

I was out taking some real estate photos for a buyer client when I happened upon a family of turkeys crossing the road at Sandy Beach. I'm sure there's a good punch line in there somewhere, but I snapped a few photos and went on my way.

If you are in the market to buy or sell real estate at Deep Creek Lake or in Garrett County, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson for all of your real estate needs!

Mountain Fresh McHenry Farmers Markets Today

Make sure to stop by and check out the farmers market going on today (and every Thursday) at the Garrett County Visitor's Center. There is a chart on their website showing what's available each week, based on the time of year. A great place to buy organic foods, homegrown tomatoes, strawberries and more!

A press release from the Chamber of Commerce website:

Mountain Fresh Produce Association Farmers Market
06/19/2008-09/29/2008The Mt. Fresh McHenry Farmers Market will be opening in a new location for the 2008 season on June 19. The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce Visitor’s Center parking lot will host the market this year.

“We’re excited that the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce is allowing the market to be held in their parking lot,” said Cheryl DeBerry, Agriculture Marketing Specialist for Garrett County Economic Development. “The location on Visitor’s Center Drive is very visible from Route 219 and should be a prime location for a successful farmers market.”The 2008 market will also be held on different days and times. “Having the market on Monday and Thursday evenings will allow people leaving work to stop by the market on their way home,” said Lori Schmuck, vendor at the McHenry Farmers Market.

“They can have the freshest vegetables and baked goods in the county on their dinner table that evening.”Mountain Fresh McHenry Farmers Markets will be held June 19 through August 28 on Mondays and Thursdays from 4:00 to 6:30 pm at the Garrett County Visitor’s Center parking lot off Rt. 219 in McHenry. Mountain Fresh Oakland Farmers Markets will be held June 7 through October 29 on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Mt. Fresh pavilion by the Oakland town parking lot off Second Street. The Mountain Fresh Producers Association hosts producer-only farmers markets featuring fresh produce, herbs, honey, jams and jellies, baked goods, plants, crafts, and fall decorations from the mountaintop area. For more information, visit http://www.mountainfresh.org/ or call 301-334-6960.

Dans Mountain State Park near Deep Creek Lake - cool day trip

Dans Mountain State Park is about a 35-40 minute drive from Deep Creek Lake. I had been there once before a long time ago, but hadn't seen the pool area. A friend told us about it, and we decided to go with a few groups of friends to try it out. WOW. It was a really good time. We packed a picnic lunch/dinner, and there were plenty of places to setup shop. We picked a shady pavilion surrounded by some pine trees. I was really impressed with the size of the pool(s). There are 2 large water slides and there were 3 lifeguards on duty. There is a kids wading pool, and there are at least 4 or 5 roped off areas with varying depths of water, 2 1/2 feet up to 9 1/2 feet.

We didn't spend anytime outside of the pool area, but it was obvious that there was plenty of room to roam: secluded picnic tables and benches, walking/hiking paths, BIG mountain views, and a huge playground. There was also a volunteer food stand outside.


Overall, I highly recommend it for a change of pace. Admission was $3/person (state park prices are pretty inexpensive), getting there was easy, though it was somewhat of a long drive to swim for a few hours. We plan on going back sometime to check out the rest of the state park, and to see 'Dan's Rock' in person. An interesting story from the state website about how Dan's Rock got it's name:


"Daniel was known for being adventurous, often hunting with a Delaware Indian named Nemacolin. While pursuing a bear in a tree, Daniel fell and lay unconscious until Nemacolin found him, and dragged Daniel home to safety. Since that event, the mountain has been known as Dan's Mountain."



Some more photos:

Sorellee's at Deep Creek Lake

After a fun day of boating on the lake and swimming at Dan's Mountain today, I took my family to Sorellee's, near the intersection of Sand Flat Road and Garrett Hwy. Sorellee's (means 'sisters'), is locally owned and operated (Gale & Angie Bosley) and has some great Italian food and ice cream. Today, we settled on ice cream. We had a good time, and the kids had their fill. It was a nice ending to a busy summer day.

A neat feature of Sorellee's - they will deliver food and groceries (beer & wine, too!) to just about anywhere for a small delivery fee. I can't think of anyone else who will deliver alcohol, so it will be interesting to see how well that works for them. If we can get the Sunday alcohol sales passed in Garrett County this fall, I will have to try to have beer and pizza delivered for the Redskins v/ Steelers game - my two favorite teams!

Some photos:

It doesn't matter what flavor, Noah just flat out likes ice cream...

Kayleah and her friend Katie enjoying a waffle bowl :)

Update: Bears return to finish the job

Another update from Offlake Rentals: As I mentioned the other day, the bears (mother & cub) who ripped apart a bear proof container in Sky Valley came back to finish the job yesterday:

Bear attacks are rare on a global scale, but there have been bear attacks recently in Garrett County, Maryland. This article from the Washington Post, dated September 6, 2007, is sad proof that bear attacks can happen anywhere at any time. This bear apparently tested positive for rabies, and that undoubtedly affected the situation. Normally, bears are peaceful creatures, and they are just like any other animal you encounter in the wild - curious and hungry.

The bottom line is this - if & when you encounter a bear, raccoon, snake, bobcat, or any other wildlife, use common sense and keep your distance.

Interesting read on black bear safety:

"According to Dr. Steve French, who authored the chapter of bear behavior and attacks in the 5th edition of the textbook Wilderness Medicine, here are the rules for avoiding a bear attack in the wilderness:

1. Do not provoke animals. Do not corner or provoke a bear.
2. Never approach an animal when it is with young.
3. Do not disturb a feeding animal. Do not explore into its feeding territory or disrupt mating patterns.
4. In bear country, hang all food off the ground in trees away from the campsite. Never keep food or captured game inside a tent. Use proper food storage to keep food away from bears. Cook at a site away from the sleeping area. Do not sleep in clothes worn while cooking or eating. 5. Make noise when hiking, particularly on narrow paths or through tall grass. If you confront a brown (grizzly) bear, avoid eye contact and try to slowly back away. If you confront a black bear, shout, yell, throw rocks or sticks, or do whatever you can to frighten off the animal.
6. If attacked by a bear, do not try to outrun it - you can’t. Cover your head and the back of your neck with your arms and curl into a fetal position or lay flat on the ground, face down, in order to protect your abdomen. If you are wearing a backpack, keep it on for additional protection. Use your elbows to cover your face if a bear turns you over. After a bear attack, remain on the ground until you are certain that the bear has left the area. More than one victim has successfully protected himself during the initial attack, only to arise too soon (before the bear has lost interest and left the area) and be mauled during the second attack."

Hike through Deep Creek Highlands

I was walking through Deep Creek Highlands the last week, taking some photos of a new lot listing on Westward Way, and I happened upon a mother and baby deer nibbling on on some fresh landscaping. They looked spooked, because they didn't expect me, and I admit I jumped a little when I saw them move. Regardless, I snapped a few quick photos and they went about their business.

One of the great features of the Deep Creek Highlands community is the walking trails. There is a beautiful path to the lake, surrounded by a mountain stream, blackberry patches and some breathtaking views of Deep Creek Lake. It is lot more enjoyable going down the path than it is coming up the path - it is definitely a challenging hike. But, it's worth it. There a few places to rest along the way, and it meanders through the communities of Waterside at Wisp and Southridge. It ultimately leads to the Lakeside Park on Marsh Hill Road, one of the amenities of ownership to some of the communities of Wisp Resort. I snapped a few photos there, hopped on the boat and was well on my way.

New Listing! 115 Alderson St, Loch Lynn

Great value! Over 7,200 sq ft of potential. The building is in need of remodeling and a little TLC. If rehabbing is your forte, this may be an incredible project for you. Hardwood floors, beautiful stained glass windows, native stone exterior and turn of the century architecture adorn this remodeled Church.

Plenty of room (3,800 sq ft unfinished) to build your own custom living area, while renting out the 3 apartments currently on site. Let the tenants pay the rent. Income is currently $1,400/mth. There is also a possibility of adding up to 4 more apartments and even more income. Or, run your business from the commercial storefront. Get you creative juices flowing!

Structure sits on a 1/4 acre town lot, with public water and sewer. Loch Lynn just installed new sewer lines, as well. Any and all upgrades, of course, will be subject to prior approval from Garrett County zoning and/or the town of Loch Lynn. Owner claims property is grandfathered, but that needs to be confirmed. Commercial tenant is moving out within a week or two.

Here is an exterior photo gallery.

If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson for all of your real estate needs!

Deep Creek's Got Talent!

Don't forget to stop by and check out the talent competition at the Honi-Honi tomorrow. I was asked to post this info, as well:

What: Deep Creek Lake Talent Competition
When: June 21, 2008
Time: 6pm - 9pm
Where: Honi Honi Bar @ Deep Creek Lake

Prizes will be awarded, live judges panel. Come show your stuff!

All Earth Eco Tours

All Earth Eco Tours ™
P.O. Box 35,
Friendsville, MD 21531
Toll Free 1-800-446-7554
301-746-4083
http://www.allearthecotours.com/

I wanted to take a few minutes and promote a local business that has been around for some time - All Earth Eco Tours. They specialize in many different outdoor activities, adventure sports, eco tours, hiking and other fun things to do in the Deep Creek Lake & Garrett County area. I have not participated personally, but I plan on doing so this summer with my family. I'll keep you in the loop and post some photos. The nature photography workshops & the yoga in nature courses sound particularly interesting.

More from the All Earth Eco Tours website:

"Inside our site you'll find information on our adventure eco tours, eco eagle watching kayak tours, guided walks, snowshoeing, cross country skiing, hikes, arts programs, yoga classes, nature photography workshops, custom team building programs like TEAM SURVIVOR, and our popular Bonfire Extravaganza Campfire Program at Deep Creek Lake State Park...Sacred Fire Sacred Drum."

Here is a video from YouTube showing the Bonfire Extravaganza.

So, if you are looking to add some flair to your vacation or if you are want to try a different spin on our local state parks & activities, be sure to check out All Earth Eco Tours!

Travel Journalists Visiting; Being Hosted By Wisp

Jun. 19, 2008
Wisp Resort in McHenry is currently hosting a media tour for national and key regional journalists, who arrived yesterday and will be here through this Sunday.
Through Geiger & Associates, a national destination marketing firm, more than 20 travel journalists representing key regional and national publications, including Timber Home Living, Toledo Blade, Stone Magazine, Destination I Do Magazine, Cleveland Family, Cincinnati Family, US Airways Magazine, AAA Go Carolinas, Family Fun, AAA Home & Away, and others are visiting the area as part of an organized editorial research trip. The tour is designed to promote increased tourism to the area, and is a part of Wisp’s comprehensive marketing efforts.
“We are excited about having a chance to show this caliber of journalists the diversity of our offerings, and what truly makes Western Maryland a four-season destination,” said Karen Myers of Wisp. “Any resulting articles will help promote Garrett County.”
In addition to Wisp Resort, other local tourism industry members, including restaurants, state parks, and attractions, are hosting meals and activities for the media group. Tour activities will include exploring the area’s historic and cultural sites, shopping, family attractions, culinary and agritourism offerings, fishing, kayaking, and more.

Garrett County Health Dept. Reports Another Case Of Rabies

Jun. 19, 2008
Environmental Health Services of the Garrett County Health Department has reported the fifth case of laboratory confirmed rabies in the county for 2008.
A raccoon submitted to the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene laboratory was confirmed positive for rabies last Thursday, June 12. The incident occurred on Monday, June 9, near Chestnut Grove Road when a raccoon approached a chained dog and a fight occurred.
The dog's owner shot the raccoon and placed it in plastic bags, taking precautions not to come in contact with the wild animal or any bodily fluids. The owner also avoided handling the dog for several hours, according to the Health Department.
The currently vaccinated dog will be given a rabies booster shot and will be monitored for 45 days.
"Positive rabies cases have been reported in all areas of the county," said a Health Department spokesperson. "To protect your pets, make sure they are currently vaccinated against rabies."
Dogs, cats, and ferrets 3 months of age and older can be vaccinated. Maryland law requires these animals to be vaccinated by 4 months of age. First shots on dogs and cats are good for one year. Booster vaccinations are good for three years. Ferrets must be vaccinated annually.
Persons with questions about rabies are asked to call the Health Department at 301-334-7760.

Board of Education Announces '08 Personnel Changes

Jun. 19, 2008
Several retirements and resignations and numerous appointments have been made concerning Garrett County School personnel, which were recently announced at the June Board of Education meeting.
From Northern High School teacher Harvey R. Speicher, and from the Central Office, monitoring specialist Sue A. Damon, will both retire effective July 1. Also retiring is teacher Suzanne Ryan from Dennett Road Elementary School, effective Jan. 1, 2009.
Resignations include science teacher Jennifer Roth from Southern Middle School, which was effec-tive June 11, and Tammy Ward, part-time cafeteria/custodian from Bloomington School, effective July 1.
Southern High school has hired four new personnel, including James H. Maddy, secondary principal; Edward S. Wildesen, assistant principal; and Rachel Guynn and Robert H. Sines, both custodian III. Maddy, Guynn, and Sines will start July 1, with Wildesen set to begin Aug. 1.
Accident Elementary School has hired Corrine L. Clark as its behavioral support teacher, effective Aug. 21, and Northern High School has employed John M. Hummel as guidance counselor.
Southern Middle School has appointed P. Jonathan Nazelrod as science teacher, effective Aug. 21, and Willard Skidmore as head custodian, effective July 1.
At Dennett Road Elementary School, Dennis Rodeheaver will start as head custodian July 1; and Route 40 Elementary School will start Kista Wilt as secretary VI/media assistant Aug. 14.
Tracie A. Ward has been hired as a speech therapist, effective Aug. 7.

Commissioners Asked To Look At Safety Issues

Jun. 19, 2008
Safety was the topic of the public commentary portion of last Tuesday's Garrett County commissioners' meeting. Deep Creek Lake Property Owners Association president Scott Johnson asked the officials to continue their efforts to improve traffic safety. Oakland councilman Jay Moyer asked them to review a police issue concerning Broadford Lake Park.
Johnson thanked the commissioners for previous measures they have taken to address road safety issues, but encouraged them to do more, not only for his road, State Park, but for the entire county.
"People who live here want a safe environment; people who come here to relax want a safe environment," he told the commissioners. "And if we have cars speeding up and down roads that aren't well marked, aren't enforced with speed control, we have a potential to ruin our number one industry, tourism, and to put a negative impact on second-home sales."
Johnson said both tourism and home sales "drive" revenue to the county, which is why it is important to improve safety.
"I would like to continue the dialog outside of this forum, and will assist in any way that I can to bring resources to help resolve what I think is an issue of importance," he told the commissioners.
Johnson indicated that such "stakeholders" as the Chamber of Commerce, Department of Natural Resources, Maryland State Police, neighborhoods, and the media could be recruited to help.
Johnson also suggested that the commissioners expand a traffic flow study being conducted on State Park Road, look into establishing benchmarks to promote safety (speed limits, enforcement, etc.), and indentify problem areas.
Two particular problems are on Rt. 219 at Deep Creek Lake near Uno's and Trader's Landing. Both places have pedestrian crosswalks and businesses with heavy traffic going in and out of parking lots. An accident occurred at Trader's Landing as recently as June 7, Johnson noted.
A driver was traveling north on Rt. 219 and was turning his car into a business entrance when it was struck by a truck that was traveling behind him. The truck driver sustained an airbag deployment injury and was taken to Garrett County Memorial Hospital.
"Everybody knows that's a pretty busy place," Johnson said about the Trader's Landing area.
Commissioner Ernie Gregg noted that the State Highway Administration is conducting safety evaluations in the Trader's Landing and Uno's areas, and that private stakeholders are involved in that process.
"Plans are being made and work is being done to upgrade lighting, particularly in the Uno's area," Gregg said, adding that the state is still evaluating signage issues at Trader's Landing.
Gregg said he has suggested using rumble strips on the highway to help make drivers more aware of the crosswalks.
Commissioner Fred Holliday said drivers in other areas of the country know that they must stop for pedestrians in designated crosswalks.
"[But] in Garrett County, we just don't want to do that," he said. "And I don't understand why we can't get that message."
Johnson said that is why he suggested involving stakeholders, to get help in educating the public about road safety issues.
Moyer said he felt that much of the problem stemmed from people concentrating on their cell phones instead of their driving.
He suggested creating no-cell-phone zones in areas with serious pedestrian/vehicular interactions. Moy-er noted, however, that the state may not allow that to be done. Perhaps, Sen. George Edwards could look into the issue, the councilman said.
Moyer was at the commissioners' meeting to address another public safety issue: police enforcement at the Broadford Lake Recreational Area.
The lake is owned by the town of Oakland, but is in the jurisdiction of Mtn. Lake Park, which does not have its own police force. As a result, legal issues concerning police enforcement are complicated.
Currently, an Oakland officer can enforce laws/make arrests only if a county deputy is present or if the sheriff's office has specifically requested that the town handle a case, Moyer explained.
Garrett County sheriff Gary Berkebile also noted that if Oakland officers see a violation occur, Maryland emergency situation laws allow them to act.
Recent vandalism at the lake has prompted Oakland officials to readdress a mutual aid agreement between the town and county and to clarify jurisdictional issues.
"There are some things we need to start enforcing, like trespassing," Moyer said, adding that theft was also increasing. "Just recently, the sound system was taken out."
Gregg said there were all kinds of extenuating circumstances, but if the law allows it, he personally would like to see Oakland Police have the authority to make arrests.
Berkebile indicated that the county is the one that has to decide who has "blanket authority" over the lake. He suggested that the commissioners forward the issue to county attorney Mike Getty to see what the county's involvement is and to see how Mtn. Lake Park enters into the matter.
"Because you may have a conflict of issues," Berkebile said. He added, however, that he had no objection to Oakland having authority at the lake.
The commissioners agreed to have the county's attorney look at the issue.
"We'll try to expedite this," Gregg said.
The commissioners did not hold a public meeting this week. Their next scheduled meeting is Tuesday, June 24.

Hearing Slated On Proposal To Prohibit Turbines

Photo Courtesy of FreePhotoBank.com

Hearing Slated On Proposal To Prohibit Turbines

Jun. 19, 2008
The Garrett County commissioners will hold a public hearing next Tuesday, June 24, at 10:30 a.m. in their meeting room at the courthouse on a proposal to amend the Deep Creek Watershed Zoning Ordinance.
The proposal was submitted by Nancy-Elizabeth Nimmich, Pleasant Valley, and Barbara Boone, Oakland, to establish "performance zoning" throughout all of Garrett County.
Under the amendment, a new Article 12 would be added to the ordinance that would define and prohibit commercial wind turbine structures. It would also define the territorial jurisdiction of the new article to include all lands in Garrett County except incorporated municipalities.
All interested persons may attend the hearing to voice their views on the subject or submit written testimony to the Garrett County commissioners.

Garrett Country Market - Accident, Maryland

I had been to the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce earlier in the week to renew my business membership, and I picked up a flyer for the Garrett Country Market in Accident. I also saw an ad somewhere (the Republican, maybe?) that mentioned the market, and had a nutritional analysis of various meats. Turns out Buffalo (bison) meat was lower in calories and fat than regular beef and even chicken. I was a little leary about trying it, but I decided to do it. We tried it in spaghetti the other night. Wasn't too bad, actually.

One GREAT thing that they carry is dried fruit. The dried strawberries are amazing!

I highly recommend stopping in to check it out sometime. Very fast & friendly service!

Some info about them:

http://www.garrettcountrymarket.com/

418 South Main Street

Accident, MD 21520

P: 301-746-6328 (MEAT)

F: 301-746-6010

Hours of Opperation:

Mon - Thur: 9:00 am - 6:00 pm
Friday: 9:00 am - 7:00 pm

Saturday: CLOSED

Sunday: 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Lowes Construction Well Underway

If you have been on Garrett Highway in Oakland in recent weeks, you have no doubt noticed that Beitzel Co. is laying the ground work for the new Lowes home improvement store. It's really amazing to me to see how quickly the earth was moved and storm water management ponds were built. I, for one, am excited about the prospects of having a home improvement store with this amount of on-site selections available locally. I know it will have an impact on local businesses, and that is part of competition. Theorhetically, it will drive prices down for consumers here, and that is good news in these tough economic times. The gas we save from driving to Morgantown, WV; Uniontown, PA; or Cumberland, MD (which are the closest stores in the chain) will add up very quickly.

One downside of this is the amount of home improvements I have put off over the years. Now it looks like I will be forced to spend that extra gas money on fixing leaky faucets and replacing older fixtures...

Bear proof trash containers?

My good friend Bob Orr, from Offlake Rentals, sent these photos to me the other day. It appears that these 'bear proof' trash containers aren't so bear-proof anymore. This occurred at a vacation rental in Sky Valley, a wooded community on the southeastern shores of Deep Creek Lake. If you look closely, you can make out the claw marks that are cut into the side of the plastic can. Eye witnesses confirmed that this is a very large bear, and had a cub with her. If I can figure out how to upload the video from their cell phone, they caught the bear shortly after the incident 'doing it's business' near the house.

One tip that Bob passed along to me: leave a rag soaked in ammonia inside or on top of the wooden housing for your trash containers - or, leave said rag in the immediate vicinity of your trash. This seems to keep the bears at bay, and they *should* leave you alone.

It also needs to be said, bears are cute and fun to watch, but they are definitely dangerous. If they can rip apart a wooden box, imagine what they can do to you!

Jennings Randolph power plant focus of meetings

Published: June 16, 2008 01:26 pm
Jennings Randolph power plant focus of meetings

From Staff ReportsCumberland Times-News

ELK GARDEN, W.Va. - The power company that has been eyeing possible hydroelectric generation at Jennings Randolph Dam for two years now, will attend a 10 a.m. public meeting Tuesday conducted by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission at The Will O' The Wisp Hotel on U.S. Route 219 at Deep Creek Lake to consider the environmental impacts of such a project.Fairlawn Hydroelectric Co. LLC, a limited liability company from Fairlawn, Ohio, is looking to build a 13.4 megawatt power plant that would generate 50,000 megawatt hours of electricity annually.The project includes an intake structure to be built upstream of the dam, a 720-foot penstock or conduit, a powerhouse measuring 60 feet long, 40 feet wide and 25 feet high and a half-mile long transmission line of 34.5 kilovolts.A similar public meeting was to be held Monday at 6 p.m. at the same location. Earlier Monday, Fairlawn conducted a tour at Jennings Randolph Dam about the proposed project."There has always been an interest to put private hydroelectric generation at the dam," said Bill Donnellan, head ranger at the Army Corps of Engineers project, on Monday. "The companies know that we will continue to make water quality and water supply our missions and that those come first, so they have to determine whether or not it will be profitable to generate electricity under those conditions."Information about the meetings in Garrett County is found in the Federal Register of May 27. Though the meetings are meant to receive public input, the Times-News could find no evidence that any of the federal agencies involved or the power company had issued a press release about them. Considerable time, however, remains for the public to provide written comments.Information about the project is available at www.ferc.gov. Search the elibrary for the project number, which is P-12715.Comments about the environmental assessment will be accepted by FERC through July 17, either via the Web site or by mailing to Kimberly D. Bose, secretary, Federal Energy Regulation Commission, 888 First St., NE, Room 1A, Washington, DC 20426.Fairlawn notes in the Federal Register that it will study water quality, possible nitrogen entrainment in fish, wetlands, threatened or endangered species including the Indiana bat and turbine mortality of fish. The company said it will not study possible impacts on geology, recreation, land use, aesthetics, culture or socio-economics.The FERC contact for this project is Michael Spencer at (202) 502-6093. The Fairlawn contact is Clifford Phillips at (330) 869-8451.A FERC timetable listed in the Federal Register projects states that approval for construction could come as early at 2012.

Fathers Day at Deep Creek Lake 2008

I enjoyed a wonderful Fathers Day at Deep Creek Lake State Park over the weekend. We went for a picnic on Sunday and hung out near the state park beach. My daughter Kayleah played on the rocks and searched for different kinds of bugs and creepy cralwies. My grand parents were with me, as well as my in-laws. It was about 85 degrees and sunny, and the water is almost warm enough that it doesn't take your breath when you jump in...almost.

After the picnic, we went took the boat down to a friends house at Turkey Neck. There was a sailboat race in progress and we decided to do a little bit of fishing from the dock. I personally didn't catch anything, but I did witness my cousin lose a 12" bass as she tried to pull it up out of the water...it was entertaining, to say the least.

We wrapped up a sun filled day with some dinner from Grizzly Grillin & some ice cream from the Creamery (thanks for the Fathers Day FREE scoop, by the way!). Coconut & chocolate butter fudge go together better than you would imagine. I also have it on good authority that Bill Meagher, the owner of the Creamery, is working on beer flavored ice cream...stay tuned!

Third Street Bridge Under Construction

AFTER YEARS OF WAITING, anticipation, and yes, occasional irritation, particularly for Oakland residents who live along Third Street and other parts south of the railroad tracks, construction is now well under way on the new bridge that will span the tracks. Because the project involved the “coming together” of a number of property owners, the railroad, several utility companies, and a variety of government agencies, progress was, not surprisingly, exceedingly slow for several years. While things are moving along well now, the new bridge will likely not be completed and open for traffic until next spring. Photo by John McEwen.

Commissioners Still Evaluating POS Allocations

Commissioners Still Evaluating POS Allocations

Jun. 12, 2008
The Garrett County commissioners last week received Program Open Space (POS) funding requests from nine local groups totaling more than $524,000. But there is only about $234,000, including carry-overs from previous years, available in fiscal year 2009 development project funding.
The commissioners were still reviewing the requests this week, comparing them to previous allocations, in an attempt to decide what projects should receive the limited funds.
More than $99,000 is available for local land acquisition projects for FY '09, but no towns or organizations requested this type of POS money.
Zoning administrator Bill DeVore, Garrett County Department of Planning and Land Development, reviewed the requests for the commissioners.
Oakland, DeVore said, asked for a total of $285,000 for four projects. Town officials would like $120,000 for tennis courts, $87,000 for a Little League restroom/concession facility, and $8,000 to conduct an engineering study for an recreational vehicle park, all for Broadford Park Recreation Area. Oakland also requested $70,000 to install additional lighting along the town's walking trail.
Mountain Lake Park requested $72,829.50 to construct the Crystal Springs Walking Trail. DeVore noted that same amount had been awarded to the town in FY 2007 for its B&O Walking Trail Project. But the town has abandoned that initiative and has requested that the '07 funding be transferred to the Crystal Springs project.
Mtn. Lake Park is forgoing the B&O project for various reasons, but primarily because of the cost. The trail would have been constructed in a flood plain, making it too expensive, DeVore noted.
Loch Lynn Heights asked for $64,000 for an athletic complex/parking area. The money would be used for preliminary planning and design, excavation and tree removal, stormwater management, and an underground conduit.
The Garrett County Board of Education would like $36,900 to upgrade the girls' softball field at Northern High School. The improvements would include paving, fencing, infield resurfacing, and outfield regrading.
The Avilton Community Association requested $20,200 to purchase and install playground equipment at the new Avilton Community Center. If the commissioners grant the association's request, this would be first time that the Avilton community receives POS funding, DeVore noted.
He said the association plans to contribute $16,000 toward the playgroup equipment project.
Crellin softball field officials would like $14,800 for improvements. The work would include grading, ditches, stone, fencing, a home plate, benches, and bleachers.
Grantsville asked for $13,5000 to construct a new gravel parking area at the town park.
The Casselman Valley Soccer Association would like $10,000 to install sidewalks and a patio at its existing stand, to replace grave and topsoil, and to top dress the fields.
Accident requested $5,998.50 for aluminum bleachers and six trash cans for Town Park East.
More than $539,000 was available and allocated in POS funding in FY 2008 for local projects.
Program Open Space is funded by the state and is allotted to counties each year, with the monies appropriated by their fiscal authorities. The funds are to be used to renovate existing Open Space facilities or to buy properties for new Open Space use.
All projects must be for public use. Additionally, development initiatives require a 10 percent local match, but those involving land acquisition do not.

Performing Arts Center Board Asks

Performing Arts Center Board Asks

Jun. 12, 2008
Members of the Garrett Performing Arts Center Inc. (PAC) board of directors asked the county commissioners this week for continued support for the proposed PAC project.
"We understand that funding is tight at this time but sincerely hope that you will support us in the future," said PAC representative Bob Huebner.
In March 2006, a previous board of county commissioners voted to match any state funding for the facility, up to $1 million, provided that the PAC group could get commitments of at least $3 million prior to using county money. Those commissioners who approved the county match were Ernie Gregg and Dave Beard. Fred Holliday opposed.
Incumbent Gregg sound-ed optimistic on Tuesday that a performing arts center could still be built in the county.
"Truly this will happen; if not now, in the future," he told the PAC board.
Gregg was a member of the original PAC committee, which was formed in 2003 by the commissioners to study the center's feasibility, location, design, and funding options. The committee later became a not-for-profit incorporated board.
Incumbent Holliday and new commissioner Denny Glotfelty were cautious Tuesday about making any financial commitments to the PAC board.
"I think it's a good project; I think it will work at some point in time," Holliday told the members. "But I'm not sure that time is right now. I don't want to give you false hope."
Holliday noted that because of state funding cuts, the county is nearing a structural deficit and "taking a look at" its budgetary process. As a result, he said, the county has deferred some of its own projects to later years, including the new detention center.
Holliday indicated that county funding may be available for the PAC project in the future. "But for the next couple years," he said, "I can't see it [hap-pening] because of our financial situation."
"Clearly, it's not going to happen overnight; we all recognize that," said Huebner about the center.
He said it would take the board a couple of years to reach the point where it could actually spend mon-ey. But, Huebner stressed, the board could not wait until it had money in hand for each phase. Because of state and county funding cycle issues, the project could be delayed further if the PAC board waited.
The group has worked on the initiative for several years. In 2005, with funding supplied by the county, the PAC committee hired an architectural firm to prepare a schematic design.
Plans called for a 48,500-square-foot auditorium with 800 seats to be built in conjunction with a proposed exhibit hall/trade center in the Thayerville area. The exhibit hall, however, will now be built at the McHenry fairgrounds. As a result, the PAC board is looking for an alternative location.
Owners of another Thayerville site indicated they would donate property for the PAC. The board hired an architect and an engineer to study the feasibility of that site. They found it was possible to build a center there, but a multi-level structure would have to be built to accommodate parking, Huebner said.
"As soon as a location is pinned down," he said, "we will need to again employ an architectural firm to do a schematic design suitable for the new location so that we can then effectively begin to raise capital funds."
The PAC representative noted that his board has tentative commitments for two large donations: one for $5 million and another for $2 million.
With the support of the county commissioners, Sen. George Edwards and Del. Wendell Beitzel submitted a $1 million bond bill to the 2007 legislative session for architectural and engineering expenses for the center. But because of a state shortfall that year, the board was granted only $50,000 of its request.
The county commissioners did not support a bond bill for the center this year. But they did ask Edwards and Beitzel to introduce a $10 million bond bill to help fund county capital projects.
"Needless to say," Huebner told the commissioners, "we were disappointed when you decided not to support [our] bond bill request for the 2008 legislative session." He said the board would like to submit another bond bill next year.
"I think the commissioners' could voice support for this [project] even though at the present time you're not able to fund it," said local resident Troy Ellington. "I think that would go a long way toward helping to raise private funds as well. If you don't have the voice, support, of the commissioners, I think you'll have a lot of trouble."
Gregg said he had a good point. "We need to bear in mind," Gregg said, "financial commitment from the county is not going to be required anywhere in the near future, and I'm talking maybe something as long as five years."
Commissioner Glotfelty asked if the auditorium had to have 800 seats. He said it would be nice to know if this was more capacity than was needed. It was noted that Frostburg State University's main stage auditorium seats 350.
"Do we need 800 seats here, or do we need 350 or 400?" Glotfelty asked. "I'm not saying one way or another. But I think we need to look at all aspects."
Just because the center can be built, does not mean it can be filled, he said. Glotfelty added that the PAC was a good project, but that it was also important to consider such aspects as maintenance costs.
Huebner said the 800 seating number was needed to draw "top-notch" performers.
Board member Moe Turrentine noted that a recent Pittsburgh Symphony pops concert at Wisp Resort had more than 800 people in attendance. Many others had to be turned away because there were not enough seats. Turrentine added that the symphony wants to make Deep Creek Lake its "summer residence."
Gregg said the original PAC Committee spent much time reviewing the seating capacity issue. Many members thought that 500 was adequate, he said, but professionals in that venue indicated that 800 was the "magic number" needed for operational and efficiency reasons.
The PAC board gave the commissioners a folder containing 13 letters from residents supporting the project, including school superintendent Dr. Wendell Teets, Chamber of Commerce president Charlie Ross, and Director Jim Hinebaugh, Garrett County Department of Economic Development.
"As the letters indicate, such a facility will provide an economic benefit to the county; but even more important, it will provide a place which is sorely needed by the schools and the children of our county," Huebner said.
He asked that the commissioner consider verbally supporting the project, even if they could not support it financially

Mtn. Lake Park Tax Rate Cut For Fiscal ‘09

Mtn. Lake Park Tax Rate Cut For Fiscal ‘09

Jun. 12, 2008
The mayor and town council of Mountain Lake Park adopted a town budget for fiscal year 2009 at their regular monthly meeting last Thursday evening, a budget which features a 10% decrease in the town tax rate.
The tax rate for the current fiscal year is 36.2 cents per $100 of assessed property value, while the new rate for FY 2009 will be 32.6 cents.
Other positive aspects of the budget show a slight decrease in garbage collection fees - from $25.71 per quarter to $25 per quarter - and the sewer rates will remain the same.
Major capital improvement projects that will be funded by the new budget are: $200,000 for street paving; $30,000 for storm drains and culverts; $51,561 for trail amenities; $373,402 for trail construction; $15,000 for maintenance shop improvements; $15,000 for security systems; and $22,166 for a capital projects reserve.
Leo Martin is the mayor and council president. Council members are: council vice president Fred Callis, Patrick Damon, Linda Fike, Fred Learey, and Donald Sincell.
Judy Paugh is the town clerk/treasurer, Jeff Meyers is the town maintenance foreman, and the town attorney is William Rudd.

Awards Given At Chamber's Annual Dinner

Awards Given At Chamber's Annual Dinner

Jun. 12, 2008
The annual Garrett County Chamber of Commerce dinner, held last Thursday at the Lodge at Wisp Resort, saw a record number of attendees this year. With entertainment by the 10-piece local band the Remedy, 244 attendees ate dinner and saw the presentation of the Heise Entrepreneurial Spirit Award, the President's Award, and five Favorite Sons and Daughters awards.
Brenda McDonnell won the Heise Entrepreneurial Spirit Award. McDonnell owns and operates Brenda's Pizzeria and Trader's Coffeehouse at Deep Creek Lake. Winners of the Heise Entrepreneurial Spirit Award must have originated and developed a business from inception, shown a willingness to take risks, shown community involvement, held high ethical standards, and demonstrated leadership by overcoming a formidable problem that threatened the business's existence or shown business acumen through embarking on a creative, insightful or overlooked opportunity that will make an important contribution to Garrett County's business environment through substantive community impact.
The Heise Entrepreneurial Spirit Award committee, comprising previous winners, selects three nominees to be voted on by the general chamber membership. The winner is announced at the annual membership dinner and meeting.
Past honorees include Jonathan "Smiley" Kessler, Bill Sisler, Olen Beitzel, Johnny Marple, and Barry Rush. Last year's recipient, Dave Demaree of Demaree Inflatables, presented the award to McDonnell.
Larry Roby from Rent-A-Chef, Haley Farm Bed & Breakfast, and the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce jointly hosted a private dinner for the present and previous Heise Award winners on Monday at Haley Farm Bed & Breakfast.
Garrett County commissioner Denny Glotfelty received the President's Award from Charlie Ross, president and CEO of the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce. The President's Award recognizes achievement in building the business community in promoting Garrett County beyond its borders and in creating a dramatic shift that improves the quality of life for Garrett County citizens.
"Those who achieve awards, honors, and accomplishments from outside of the county that impact us all and let the world know just how good Garrett County is were the five recipients of the annual Favorite Sons and Daughters awards," according to a chamber spokesperson. The five recipients were the following:
• Crellin Elementary School, which has received three prestigious awards this year under the direction of principal Dana McCauley. It was awarded the Ernest L. Boyer 2008 Best Practices National Award for Character Education and the National Civic Star Award in recognition of its community partnerships that enrich student knowledge and achievement. The parents of Crellin students were also awarded the Comcast Parent Involvement Matters Award for their work in support of Maryland public education.
• The Garrett College Lakers women's basketball team, the 2008 NJCAA Region XX Champion, which earned the team a shot at the National Junior College Athletic Association Division II National Championship in Illinois.
• FIRST Team 1629 (the Garrett Coalition) and its robot Meshach 2.0. Team 1629 was awarded the Engineering Inspiration Award, which celebrates outstanding success in advancing respect and appreciation within a team's school and community. Team 1629 also won the Delphi Driving Tomorrow's Technology Award, which recognizes a team's elegant and advantageous machine features.
• Emily Rosser, an honors graduate at Northern High School and member of the Girl Scouts Trillium Council, received the Girl Scout Leadership and Gold Award. Rosser gave presentations and demonstrations to local schools, was Student of the Month, was inducted into the NHS Math Hall of Fame, and participated in various sports in which she received three varsity letters.
• Maria Duff, Swan Meadow student, who won the state of Maryland's sixth grade poetry content in the Young Authors Contest. With this honor, Duff and her family traveled to Baltimore for a reception and were able to sight see through the city.
Board of directors chairman Jimmy Flanigan presided over the annual meeting portion of the evening and extended congratulations to the board's outgoing member, George Jones, and welcomed new board member Shane Grady.
Door prizes for the annual dinner were provided by chamber members. Deep Creek Sweets provided a basket of chocolates, Husky Power Dogsledding provided a two-to three-hour kennel tour experience and presentation, Radio FX provided 300 hours worth of air time, Canaan Valley provided a one day/one night golf package for two, DeBerry Farm provided a jar of salsa and pepper jelly, Simon Pearce provided glassware, the Winner's Circle provided a $20 gift certificate, and Alpine Lake Resort provided a dinner gift certificate.

CHARMING — AND DANGEROUS

CHARMING — AND DANGEROUS. Seeing wildlife such as this, a mother bear and her cubs, is considered a gift to many, especially those who have chosen to reside in a place where such animals thrive. This photo was taken by Polly English-Ramsay as she watched the mother and cubs investigate her neighbor's garbage Sunday evening, along State Park Road. She said her cat alerted her to the presence of the animals, who all ambled away soon after the picture was taken. As all residents know, a mother bear takes her parental responsibility seriously and can be very dangerous if she feels her cubs are being threatened, so staying at a safe distance is always strongly advised. "I feel blessed to live in an area of such beauty and with such an abundance of wildlife," English-Ramsay said.

Highway safety concerns Garrett County residents

Published: June 11, 2008 10:48 am
Highway safety concerns Garrett County residents

Sarah MosesCumberland Times-News
OAKLAND - An accident on U.S. Route 219 in the Deep Creek Lake area this past weekend brought concerns from residents about the safety for both drivers and pedestrians."I encourage you to do more," Scott Johnson, president of the Deep Creek Lake Property Owner's Association, told the Garrett County commissioners at their Tuesday meeting. "People come here to relax and want a safe environment. There is the potential to ruin the number one industry - tourism, and second - home sales."Johnson said the accident near Unos restaurant was a sign of how congested traffic can get at this time of year.He said State Park Road, in particular, has people driving above the speed limit, putting other drivers and especially pedestrians at risk.Fred Polce, director of the county's Department of Roads, said a study, conducted from June 4 to June 9 showed the average speed of drivers was 28 mph in a 25 mph. He also said that the stretch of that road studied between Toothpick and Glendale roads averaged about 900 vehicles a day.Johnson added there is definite concern in the Thayerville area, particularly at the stoplight for Glendale Road and stretching down to Traders Landing.Denny Glotfelty, commission chairman, said he agreed that it is a problem area. He said most drivers there are trying to observe traffic and the stoplight, and are not always careful of pedestrians crossing Route 219.Ernie Gregg, commissioner, said that there have been ongoing traffic studies around Traders Landing in that area, but the state is still conducting the studies. There are plans, he said, to upgrade the lighting in the Unos area.He said he had suggested the possibility of rumble strips on the roadway in the area to keep drivers aware of the crosswalks."In other places," Commissioner Fred Holliday said, "they know to stop for a crosswalk if a pedestrian is standing there. Why can't we get people to understand that in Garrett County?"Johnson said it might take education to be done by various groups in the community, including local police forces, the county government and the media.He said some of the problems, particularly those along State Park Road could be solved with the addition of more speed signs and getting the sheriff's department on those roads more often to catch those speeding.Jay Moyer, Oakland resident, said he felt a large part of the problem was cell phone usage while driving."Why not make it a no cell phone use area?" Moyer said. "Nine out of 10 times there's a problem, people have their cell phone at their ear."No decisions were made on the suggestions at the meeting.

Contact Sarah Moses at smoses@times-news.com.

Chambers of commerce play big role in tourism, economic development

Chambers of commerce play big role in tourism, economic development

Mona RidderCumberland Times-News
Let’s talk a bit about chambers of commerce and what they do for business.It’s important to note that chambers are made up of businesses and their owner/operators within a given area.So first of all, by their very nature, they are interested in what is good for business and promoting local business interests.One of the biggest roles of the chamber is as a local link in a network of resource information that may also include the local library, college or university, Internet and other business and professional organizations.Chambers work very closely with local economic development agencies, both public and private, such as The Greater Cumberland Committee. If they communicate well, there is no conflict or overlapping of responsibilities but a cohesive effort to achieve short and long term goals that will established a unified vision of the future for the region.The region is fortunate to have chambers of commerce in Hampshire, Mineral, Allegany and Garrett counties. Some chambers, such as Allegany County, publish a monthly newsletter that helps to keep members and others informed as to specific activities.The Allegany County Chamber of Commerce newsletter for each month includes a calendar of committee meetings and other events in which the organization is involved, as well as messages from the chairman and the president of the organization.The newsletter, in addition to being printed and mailed to its 400 members, is also available on the chamber Web site.Each of the other chambers in the region also maintain a Web site.The Garrett County Chamber Web site notes that the organization provides support for small businesses and the tourism industry. It lists area job openings, tourism information and educational material as well as other items.It notes that 850 businesses in the county employ 8,680 workers.Tourism is a focal point for the chamber because of Deep Creek Lake and the Adventure Sports Complex providing ever growing summer and winter leisure activities.In West Virginia, Grant County’s chamber Web site is also focused on tourism to a great extent with its outdoor recreation in hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, rafting and mountain arts and festivals in an intensely rural atmosphere.The Web site for Hampshire County’s chamber notes the group is working toward improving the local business climate by strengthening existing businesses through training and support and encouraging new businesses to choose the county in an effort to create jobs for residents as well as build a greater tax base for improvements to the county’s infrastructure. The latter issue has been a major focus of county officials over the last year because much of the continued development in the Romney area of the county hinges on improved water and sewer.The chamber has organized home shows to showcase member businesses and facilitated cooperative advertising in the state travel guide.Similarly the Mineral County chamber has defined its mission to stimulate and enhance the business environment and quality of life.The chamber does that by being an effective, prominent voice for the business community on issues affecting business vitality and an effective advocate for sound government policies and leadership.The West Virginia chambers work closely with local convention and visitor’s bureaus, in fact, in most instances, helping to establish the bureaus to promote tourism in the county.A steering committee in Hardy County is currently working to establish a chamber there with an eye toward also establishing a visitor’s bureau. Some of the financial support for the bureaus comes from the counties’ hotel/motel tax revenues, supplemented by the chambers and other contributions.In addition to tourism and business generally, issues relating to solid waste and water are more and more becoming regional concerns and the chambers of commerce will continue to play significant roles in communication and participation in developing resolutions.

Contact Mona Ridder at monaridder@verizon.net.

Breakfast with Hale Irwin at Wisp Resort

My thanks go out to Karen Myers, Gary Daum, Steve Richards and the rest of the team collaborating on the new Lodestone Golf course at Wisp Resort. I was lucky enough to be a guest this morning at a breakfast where none other than Hale Irwin, 3 time US Open Champion was the guest of honor. Hale is in town to check in on the progress of his signature course at Deep Creek Lake. He spoke openly and answered questions about the project, as well as entertaining guests with some of his stories about working in the area. I got a chance to chat with him personally, and he currently resides in Arizona. Naturally, that lead me to ask about my favorite basketball team, the Phoenix Suns. He is a fan, by the way. Hale also confirmed to me that he meant what he said about Deep Creek Lake and our resort area in general - "There is truly no better place to have a home, or a 2nd home than here". Based on Hale's accomplished resume and his travels, that really registered with this Garrett County native as quite a compliment!
An interesting tidbit from reading up on Hale: He was inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame in 1992, and ranked in 2000 as the 19th greatest golfer of all time by Golf Digest magazine!

Deep Creek Discovery Center offering programs to please every naturalist

Deep Creek Discovery Center offering programs to please every naturalist

For the Cumberland Times-News
CUMBERLAND - A variety of activities have been scheduled at the Discovery Center at Deep Creek Lake State Park."Let's Go Birding" will be held today at 8 a.m. Participants will discover local breeding birds with one of Garrett County's most avid birders. They will learn how to bird by ear and listen for distinctive songs as they stroll through the park. Those attending should bring binoculars for the 90-minute excusion.Other events include:* Saturday, 11 a.m., "Black Bears and You!" Participants will hike along the Snakeroot Trail while learning all about bears. Those attending should wear proper footwear because the trail is rocky. "Hourly Encounters" with nature center animals runs from noon to 4 p.m., with a campfire at 7 p.m.* Sunday, 11 a.m., nature hike with a naturalist to the Snakeroot Trail, and 1:30 p.m., "Aviary Encounter."* Monday, 10:30 a.m., "Fishing with the Naturalist," offering fishing basics like knot tying and casting. Poles, bait and tackle will be provided. There is a fee.For more schedule, park information, and updates about the Discovery Center go to these Web sites: http://www.deepcreektimes.com/, http://www.deepcreekblog.com/ andwww.dnr.state.md.us/publiclands/western/deepcreeklake.html or call (301) 387-7067.The center is open Monday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.Programs and center hours are subject to change without notice.