Health Insurance Partnership Event Slated In McHenry

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Health Insurance Partnership Event Slated In McHenry


Sep. 25, 2008

The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce will host a Health Insurance Partnership session at its McHenry office on Monday, Sept. 29, beginning at 8:30 a.m. Nicole Stallings, chief of government relations and special programs for the Maryland Health Care Commission, will be the presenter.
Small-business owners who have not been able to provide health insurance coverage for their employees may find the Health Insurance Partnership helpful.

"The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce and the Garrett County Health Department feel it is important to bring this message to our small businesses," said Karen Reckner, the chamber's director of business services. "This is the only session scheduled in western Maryland, so we strongly urge the public to attend. Please note that you do not need to be a chamber member to attend this informational session."

Stallings will give an overview of the partnership, including who is eligible and how to enroll for this new program. Garrett County health officer Rodney Glotfelty will also provide information to interested business owners.

The partnership is designed for businesses with two to nine full-time employees, earning an average yearly wage below $50,000, that have not offered health coverage to their employees in the previous 12 months. Businesses that meet these criteria may be eligible to receive a subsidy of up to 50 percent of their insurance premium.

Under the partnership, small businesses may be eligible to receive a subsidy that helps provide health coverage services and rewards participating individuals for efforts to improve their health and/or manage chronic disease.

Eligible businesses may choose from a selection of health coverage plans and establish a payroll deduction. Business owners will work with a local insurance agent or broker to register for the partnership and to find the right health care plan for them.

"This session provides important health care information to area businesses," said Charlie Ross, chamber president/CEO. "With the growing importance of offering health care to employees, we urge area business owners to attend to learn more about how they can take advantage of the Health Insurance Partnership for small businesses."

Seating for the Sept. 29 presentation is limited. Business owners interested in attending the event are ask to RSVP by contacting Reckner at 301-387-4386, ext. 12, or karen@garrett-chamber.com.

More information about the partnership is available online at dhmh.state.md.us.


If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Long & Foster Real Estate for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

Planning Dept. Gives Update Report; DOT Officials To Visit Garrett County

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Planning Dept. Gives Update Report; DOT Officials To Visit Garrett County


Sep. 18, 2008

The Garrett County commissioners heard a departmental update report on Tuesday from Planning and Land Development staff members. Among the topics discussed were the Maryland Department of Transportation (DOT) secretary's annual visit, outdoor signage legislation, the Garrett County Comprehensive Plan draft, and building permits.
Garrett County Planning and Land Development director John Nelson told the commissioners that DOT Secretary John Porcari and State Highway Administration officials would meet with them on Friday, Oct. 3, at 10 a.m. at the courthouse. The event is open to the public.

State officials will discuss local and state projects outlined in the DOT's Consolidated Transportation Program draft for fiscal years 2009 through 2014. Local officials have also compiled a "wish list" of their own concerns, questions, and priorities that they will present at that meeting.

Topping the priorities list once again is the Rt. 219 Oakland Bypass project, although the DOT announced last week that it and numerous other capital projects across the state have been deferred in the Consolidated Transportation Program because of the national economy.

"But it can be modified at any time, in any given year, perhaps after the economy turns," Nelson said about the program.

Several other local projects have also been deferred, but which ones those are will not be known to the general public until the Oct. 3 meeting.

Also on the commissioners' list of concerns/priorities are the Rt. 219 North alignment project, improvements to the Rt. 219 corridor throughout Garrett County, continued upgrades to Rt. 42, and possible upgrades to Rt. 495 in order to alleviate traffic within the Deep Creek Lake area.

Nelson also noted that the local Planning Commission will ask state officials to improve signage/line striping along Rt. 135 at the bottom of Backbone Mountain in Bloomington to delineate the road turning movements. Motorists often have trouble, especially at night, distinguishing between the highway and a NewPage lumber yard.

In addition, Nelson reported that the Recreational Trails Committee for Garrett County is ready to develop a trails network. The Planning Commission, therefore, will encourage DOT officials to fund the Meadow Mountain Trail, which will connect Deep Creek Lake State Park to the Comfort Inn in Grantsville, and the Deep Creek Trail, which will connect Wisp Resort to the Visitors Center in McHenry.

Nelson also reported that the Sign Task Force recently met. This ad hoc committee was formed by the commissioners to access the need for outdoor advertising sign regulations and possible legislation.

At their Aug. 19 meeting, task force members passed a motion to recommend that the commissioners first seek legislation that would merely give them the authority to regulate outdoor signs.

"The task force believes this simple authority would provide the county with the flexibility to develop an appropriate level of control within a local ordinance and that the specific text of the ordinance would not be contained within state law, thereby allowing greater flexibility for change to the standards in the future," task force chair Tony Doerr wrote in a letter to the commissioners.

The task force members offered their services to define and develop the specific content of any future county regulations, Nelson noted.

The director also reported that the Planning Commission will most likely adopt its final draft of the Garrett County Comprehensive Plan at its next meeting. The draft will then be given to the commissioners for their review.

Nelson noted, however, that there is a discrepancy between what the Planning Commission wants in Chapter 7 (Sensitive Areas) and what the commissioners would like to see.

The director indicated he would bring the Planning Commission's final draft, plus a revised page or two of Chapter 7 that reflects the commissioners' viewpoints, to the commissioners' meeting on Oct. 7.

Permits and Inspections chief Jim Torrington reported on permitting activity. He presented the commissioners with a spreadsheet, comparing data from January through August 2008 with the same time frame in 2007, 2006, 2005, and 2004.

Overall, Torrington said, building permits were down nearly 20 percent this year compared to the first eight months of 2007. Housing starts for that same period were down 27 percent.

Torrington noted, however, that commercial/institutional permits were up 30 percent compared to last year. Fifty-two permits were issued in 2008, while 40 were approved the previous year.

He pointed out that this year's commercial projects are primarily small scale, involving renovation work. The total builder declared value of the 52 initiatives is more than $10.4 million. However, the two largest projects – the Oakland Lowe's store and Mountain State Brewing Company along Sang Run Road – account for $6 million of that figure.

The commissioners will not hold a public meeting next week. Their next scheduled meeting date is Tuesday, Sept. 30.




If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Long & Foster Real Estate for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

Autumn Glory Fest Reception Tickets Available

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Autumn Glory Fest Reception Tickets Available


Sep. 18, 2008

The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce is now selling tickets for its 41st annual Autumn Glory Festival Kick-Off Reception, which will be held Wednesday, Oct. 8, at the Lodge at Wisp Resort.
Along with the announcement of the 2008 Honorary Golden Ambassador, the evening will include the coronation of the Autumn Glory King and Queen and their court, and will recognize the festival sponsors.

Musical entertainment will be provided by a local band, Boathouse.

Long & Foster Realtors is the sponsor of the reception, and Clear Mountain Bank is the sponsor of the music by Boathouse.

“This fundraising event provides an elegant, yet lively atmosphere to kick off the Autumn Glory Festivities,” said Charlie Ross, president and CEO of the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce. “Please come out and support this wonderful opportunity to celebrate the beginning of Autumn Glory.”

Each attendee of the reception receives a collectible Autumn Glory pin and Golden Ambassador pass. The pass entitles the holder to priority seating on the bleachers near the reviewing stand for the Grand Feature Parade on Saturday, Oct. 11.

The evening will begin with a 6 p.m. cocktail hour. The sit-down dinner will be served at 7 p.m. The reception ticket includes an open bar, hors d’oeuvres, dinner, and entertainment. Admission to the event is $125 for a single ticket, and $195 for a couple.

The deadline to purchase tickets is Oct. 2. Persons may purchase tickets by telephoning 301-387-4386, ext. 16, or via e-mail at jessica@garrettchamber.com.


If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Long & Foster Real Estate for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

Community Action Receives Housing Preservation Grant

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Community Action Receives Housing Preservation Grant


Sep. 18, 2008

USDA Rural Development has awarded the Garrett County Community Action Committee a $35,377 Housing Preservation Grant to aid low-income homeowners, Senators Benjamin Cardin and Barbara Mikulski announced Tuesday.
"The poor state of our economy has squeezed many homeowners to the brink of their budgets, forcing them to choose between daily expenses and the very upkeep of their homes," Cardin said. "I am proud of grants like this that will make it possible for low-income homeowners to properly repair their homes, maintain their stake in the 'American dream,' and boost the entire community."

The grant will provide low interest or deferred loans to very low and low income homeowners to repair their homes and remove substandard conditions in Garrett County.

The Rural Development program was created to improve the economy and quality of life in rural America. The program helps support essential services and infrastructure improvements, and promotes economic development by supporting loans to businesses through banks and community-managed lending pools.

"I am committed to looking out for the day-to-day needs of Marylanders," said Mikulski. "This grant will mean safer and sturdier homes for more Garrett County residents."

Garrett County has an approximate population of 30,000 residents with a mean household income of $32,238. Additionally, there are 16,761 housing units in the county, Cardin noted.


If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Long & Foster Real Estate for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

Dr. Richter Named Medical Director Of ML Medical Center

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Dr. Richter Named Medical Director Of ML Medical Center


Sep. 18, 2008

Beth Little-Terry, CEO of Mountain Laurel Medical Center (MLMC), has announced that Dr. Donald Richter will join the center later this fall as its medical director. Richter will continue to see patients as usual at his current office along Memorial Drive and then at the new facility for MLMC when it opens in early spring 2009.
The building is currently under construction behind the Garrett County Health Department in Oakland.

"Dr. Richter wants to assure all of his patients that in this new position he will still maintain regular daily office hours, while remaining available to his current patients; and in addition be responsible for the overall quality and provision of medical care at the new facility," Little-Terry said.

Richter said he is excited about this opportunity to combine his own interests in primary medical care (including board certification in family practice and geriatric medicine) with the public health mandate of MLMC.

Because of his lifelong interest in Garrett County, Richter said he feels that it is a great honor to be able to combine his over 23 years of medical practice experience in the Oakland area, with the chance to both provide continued medical care to his patients, and ensure that these services through the MLMC are accessible to everyone in Garrett County regardless of insurance or income status.

In addition, he noted, at MLMC there will be the opportunity to extend his practice's influence and care into new areas to further enhance and promote the quality of life and health in the county.

"Currently, we have a lot of work in the months ahead to transition my practice into the MLMC, while establishing the staff and system to support this growth and synthesis of several practices into one health center, as well as proceed with the new physical facility currently being built," Richter said. "But, I can assure the community that the heart and soul of MLMC is firmly in place already, and as we evolve into our role of expanded service and size in the ensuing months we will strive to maintain the highest levels of skill and caring possible to provide a coordinated health base or home for our patients' medical care."


If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Long & Foster Real Estate for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

Planning Dept. Gives Update Report; DOT Officials To Visit Garrett County

courtesy Republican News


Sep. 18, 2008

The Garrett County commissioners heard a departmental update report on Tuesday from Planning and Land Development staff members. Among the topics discussed were the Maryland Department of Transportation (DOT) secretary's annual visit, outdoor signage legislation, the Garrett County Comprehensive Plan draft, and building permits.
Garrett County Planning and Land Development director John Nelson told the commissioners that DOT Secretary John Porcari and State Highway Administration officials would meet with them on Friday, Oct. 3, at 10 a.m. at the courthouse. The event is open to the public.

State officials will discuss local and state projects outlined in the DOT's Consolidated Transportation Program draft for fiscal years 2009 through 2014. Local officials have also compiled a "wish list" of their own concerns, questions, and priorities that they will present at that meeting.

Topping the priorities list once again is the Rt. 219 Oakland Bypass project, although the DOT announced last week that it and numerous other capital projects across the state have been deferred in the Consolidated Transportation Program because of the national economy.

"But it can be modified at any time, in any given year, perhaps after the economy turns," Nelson said about the program.

Several other local projects have also been deferred, but which ones those are will not be known to the general public until the Oct. 3 meeting.

Also on the commissioners' list of concerns/priorities are the Rt. 219 North alignment project, improvements to the Rt. 219 corridor throughout Garrett County, continued upgrades to Rt. 42, and possible upgrades to Rt. 495 in order to alleviate traffic within the Deep Creek Lake area.

Nelson also noted that the local Planning Commission will ask state officials to improve signage/line striping along Rt. 135 at the bottom of Backbone Mountain in Bloomington to delineate the road turning movements. Motorists often have trouble, especially at night, distinguishing between the highway and a NewPage lumber yard.

In addition, Nelson reported that the Recreational Trails Committee for Garrett County is ready to develop a trails network. The Planning Commission, therefore, will encourage DOT officials to fund the Meadow Mountain Trail, which will connect Deep Creek Lake State Park to the Comfort Inn in Grantsville, and the Deep Creek Trail, which will connect Wisp Resort to the Visitors Center in McHenry.

Nelson also reported that the Sign Task Force recently met. This ad hoc committee was formed by the commissioners to access the need for outdoor advertising sign regulations and possible legislation.

At their Aug. 19 meeting, task force members passed a motion to recommend that the commissioners first seek legislation that would merely give them the authority to regulate outdoor signs.

"The task force believes this simple authority would provide the county with the flexibility to develop an appropriate level of control within a local ordinance and that the specific text of the ordinance would not be contained within state law, thereby allowing greater flexibility for change to the standards in the future," task force chair Tony Doerr wrote in a letter to the commissioners.

The task force members offered their services to define and develop the specific content of any future county regulations, Nelson noted.

The director also reported that the Planning Commission will most likely adopt its final draft of the Garrett County Comprehensive Plan at its next meeting. The draft will then be given to the commissioners for their review.

Nelson noted, however, that there is a discrepancy between what the Planning Commission wants in Chapter 7 (Sensitive Areas) and what the commissioners would like to see.

The director indicated he would bring the Planning Commission's final draft, plus a revised page or two of Chapter 7 that reflects the commissioners' viewpoints, to the commissioners' meeting on Oct. 7.

Permits and Inspections chief Jim Torrington reported on permitting activity. He presented the commissioners with a spreadsheet, comparing data from January through August 2008 with the same time frame in 2007, 2006, 2005, and 2004.

Overall, Torrington said, building permits were down nearly 20 percent this year compared to the first eight months of 2007. Housing starts for that same period were down 27 percent.

Torrington noted, however, that commercial/institutional permits were up 30 percent compared to last year. Fifty-two permits were issued in 2008, while 40 were approved the previous year.

He pointed out that this year's commercial projects are primarily small scale, involving renovation work. The total builder declared value of the 52 initiatives is more than $10.4 million. However, the two largest projects – the Oakland Lowe's store and Mountain State Brewing Company along Sang Run Road – account for $6 million of that figure.

The commissioners will not hold a public meeting next week. Their next scheduled meeting date is Tuesday, Sept. 30.


If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Long & Foster Real Estate for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

Thousand Acres Golf Course Update from Bill Franklin

I received an email update from Bill Franklin on the progress of the new golf course at Thousand Acres:

"The front nine should be completed this fall with a planned opening summer of ’09 with the back nine to follow the next year. Golf holes 3,4,5,6, and 9 have been sodded around the greens, bunkers, and tees. There are a couple pics of the 8 bridges that cross the streams and wetlands in Thousand Acres….as a side note our wetland impacts are zero except for the bridge posts. Fairway and rough seeding is ongoing. As many of you know we have been talking about the golf course for 15 years or so with actual work on the ground the last three years…..clearing and grubbing, moving dirt, installing golf course drainage and irrigation, building roads and stormwater structures, building the irrigation pond and all the other stuff that goes into building a golf course. Three weeks ago the first tractor trailer load of sod arrives and in three hours the ground starts to look like a golf course….remarkable contrast."

Some additional photos:

If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Long & Foster Real Estate for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

New listing at Wispering Views subdivision! GA6867712

I just listed an incredible custom built house in the Wispering Views subdivision of Deep Creek Lake. The seller is also offering a $5,900 buyer credit! Check out the photo gallery:



In addition, these are a few of the features of this home:
Single Family Home
Heat Pump w/ propane backup
R38 ceilings
40,000 BTU gas fireplace insert
40,000 BTU standing gas stove
Surround sound
Multiple phone lines
Communications panel routing all TV & phone lines
Under cabinet lighting in kitchen
Energy star appliances
co2 & smoke detectors
Thermal blinds
Factory stained cement fiber board with 20 warranty/guarantee
Superior walls foundation
Exterior driveway lighting/lamp posts with individual electrical outlets
3 car detached garage with workshop & heated
1 attached garage stall
Lots of storage
Plumbed for wet bar in fully finished lower level
Large 1.12 acre lot
Views of Wisp Ski slopes
Tongue & groove ceilings
Large deck


If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Long & Foster Real Estate for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

The following map search is for McHenry, Md 21541. There are more listings available than what you see on the map - some brokers do not share their listings through this software. Simply call or e-mail me and I will be happy to provide a FULL list if available properties from the MLS!

Oakland Bypass Project Has Been "Deferred" For At Least Six Years

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Oakland Bypass Project Has Been "Deferred" For At Least Six Years


Sep. 11, 2008

Maryland Transportation Secretary John D. Porcari announced yesterday during a press conference in Annapolis that his department has been forced to cut back on transportation projects by $1.1 billion over the next six fiscal years because of national economic conditions.
Among those being cut is the $42 million Oakland/Rt. 219 bypass project. Some of the right-of-way funding and all of the construction money for that initiative has been deferred, said a Maryland Department of Transportation spokesperson this morning.

He stressed that all state projects affected by the cutbacks, including the Oakland bypass, that are currently under way have not been canceled, "just deferred." Once the economy improves, he added, the projects will be re-evaluated.

"We expect funding for all of these projects to be fully restored, but we can't foresee the future," the spokesperson said.

Funding cuts are widespread in the department's six-year spending plan draft, including the mass transit program.

The spokesperson stressed, however, that some areas will not be cut because of safety issues. Such programs as bridges and system preservation (road upkeep) will be fully funded.

Porcari will begin his department's annual state "road show" next Monday in Anne Arundel County. The secretary and other state transportation officials are scheduled to meet with the Garrett County commissioners on Friday, Oct. 3, at 10 a.m. at the courthouse.

The Maryland Department of Transportation's draft six-year spending plan for 2010 – 2015 will be unveiled, and county officials and residents will have a chance to discuss their concerns with Porcari.


If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Long & Foster Real Estate for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

Garrett College Enrollment Hits Record Number

courtesy Republican News


Sep. 11, 2008

Garrett College has begun its fall semester with a record-breaking number of students enrolled. Enrollment numbers will not be official until the cut-off date later this month, but the college's enrollment has risen to 851, which is a 9.5% increase from the fall of 2007.
"This dramatic increase is the result of several factors," said GC president Dr. Paul Dauphinais. "It is in part a result of the Garrett County Scholarship Program, through which the county is making a real and significant investment in the education of its young people."

According to the president, it can also be attributed to "a long standing history of excellent education provided by the faculty at Garrett College." GC graduates who transfer to four-year institution have reportedly earned the highest grade point averages of any Maryland community college. "It is also a result of a concerted effort by our Student Affairs staff to recruit good students, provide excellent services, and create a top notch living and learning environment," added Dauphinais.

College officials state that a major contributing factor for the increase is the experience that GC offers student with its residence halls and student activities. "The college experience is very unique for a two-year college and quite comparable to that of a four-year college."

A large number of students from various parts of Maryland have been enrolling in Garrett College in recent years, as well as students from out of the state. "This year we enrolled students from areas such as D.C., Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York," noted Dean of Students Ed Robinson."What our students are realizing is that we can offer them a true college experience, allowing them to go away to college, stay in our residence halls, and have a slate of activities in which to participate."

The college has seen a major increase in students living on campus this year as well. Since the new residence hall has been completed, which allows the housing of 184 students, the dorms are nearly at capacity.

The school year began with an orientation weekend, a three-day event including food and activities. Residential students were greeted on move-in day by a student welcoming team, pizza, and a movie. Labor also offered a barbecue, Slip 'n Slide, and other outdoor activities.

Several other activities have been planned throughout the school year, including a beach luau, family day, a winter and spring formal, a talent show, and Garrett College Olympics. In addition, the school renovated its loft area over the summer to give students a place to lounge, interact, and relax with one another before, between, and after classes. The loft will also serve as a venue for movie nights, dances, parties, and pool tournaments.

Those seeking additional information may contact Melissa Parker at 301-387-3010 or via e-mail at melissa.parker@garrettcol-lege.edu.


If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Long & Foster Real Estate for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

Dignitaries Gather To Discuss Impact Of Garrett Trails

courtesy Republican News


Sep. 11, 2008

Garrett Trails recently celebrated the importance of recreational trails to the economic development and health/wellness of the county and its residents, as well as announcing the launch of a private nonprofit organization to continue the building of a network of trails.
Some of the dignitaries in attendance included Senator George Edwards; Commissioner Ernie Gregg; Robin Summerfield, a representative from Senator Ben Cardin’s office; Rodney Glotfelty, health officer; Duane Yoder, president of Garrett County Community Action, and Charlie Ross, president of the Chamber of Commerce. Senator Edwards spoke about the economic impact that the Allegheny Highlands Trail has had on small businesses near its route in Allegany County, while Mike Dreisbach, owner of Savage River Lodge, told a specific story about a couple who stayed at their lodge recently while biking the trail and who said they spent $10,000 on their trip.

Commissioner Gregg spoke about his long-term support for a network of trails in the county, the advisors from local and state agencies that the commissioners recently appointed to advise Garrett Trails, and the importance of trails
to local residents. Glotfelty concurred with Gregg, noting that access to inexpensive recreation for county residents was an important part of the Health Department’s Strategic Plan. Tom Carr, member of the Board of Education, picked up the theme of trails and local families, calling trails, "nature’s gymnasium" and encouraging all to use trails for physical activity.

Steve Green, president of Garrett Trails and co-owner of High Mountain Sports, wrapped up the program and thanked the many long time supporters and advocates who were in attendance. He also welcomed the newer volunteers to the recently launched Garrett Trails.

Garrett Trails is a private nonprofit organization that seeks to "develop a well-used network of outstanding quality trails that provide access to Garrett County’s historic, municipal, and environmental treasures and that link to trails outside the county."

The new organization is the evolution of a long-term Commissioner Task Force – The Recreational Trails Task Force – and Chamber of Commerce Committee. The new organization structure is intended to support the expansion of the private resources and volunteers working on trails in the county.

"Nothing that we do in the county will have as positive an impact on as many people for as little money as supporting the development of a network of trails,” noted Green, in an attempt to make the case for more trails and a more connected trail system. "Having recreational trails throughout the county has an economic development impact … and a health impact."

Garrett Trails is an example of public/private partnership and of "the synergy that can be created through passionate people," noted Paige Teegarden, a consultant assisting Garrett Trails. The organization has an advisory committee made up of representatives from many state and local agencies, including DNR, Garrett Roads, local and state planning departments, State Highway Administration, the Health Department, and Economic Development.

Local businesses are engaged with Garrett Trails through the fundraiser, the Taste of Garrett, and local hikers, bikers, skiers, and other business owners are involved as board members or members of the organization’s three committees – Trail Development, Mapping & Public Awareness, and Resource Development.

"Garrett Trails is as interdependent and connected as the network of trails we
seek to create," stated Tee-garden. "With the support of so many in the county we will succeed in creating a trail system the rival of any in the country."

Those seeking more information about Garrett Trails or who wish to volunteer should contact Tee-garden at GarrettTrails@-gmail.com.


If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Long & Foster Real Estate for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

Co-Pilot Cathell Takes Part In Ike Boat Rescue

courtesy Republican News


Sep. 11, 2008

An HH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater, Fla., rescued four people from a 60-foot Bahamian-flagged fishing vessel at about 8 p.m. Sunday, about 40 nautical miles north of Great Inagua, Bahamas, in the vicinity of the Category IV Hurricane Ike. The co-pilot in the helicopter was Lt. Junior Grade Daniel Cathell of Garrett County, son of Kayla and Carl Cathell, Oakland.
The Coast Guard Seventh District Command Center in Miami received notification from Nromberto Velez, the owner of the Midnight Sun, that the vessel was taking on water with four people aboard. The Command Center watchstanders launched a Coast Guard Air Station Miami HU-25 Falcon jet that was deployed to Coast Guard Air Station Borinquen, Puerto Rico, to respond to the distressed boaters.

The Falcon crew arrived on the scene and confirmed that the vessel encountered complete engine failure and was taking on water in 70-knot winds and 30- to 35-foot seas with 40-foot swells. The crew of the vessel requested Coast Guard assistance and agreed to abandon the vessel, according to the report.

The HH-60 Jayhawk rescue helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station Clearwater, who were deployed to Providenciales, Turks, and Caicos Islands, immediately launched to assist the distressed boaters. After battling strong winds and rain, the rescue helicopter crew arrived at about 8 p.m., deployed the rescue swimmer, and hoisted all four people aboard the helicopter.

"It was a pretty wild operation," Cathell said in an e-mail Tuesday. He said they flew along the edge of a band of the storm, and then went directly into it. The storm hit the crew's hangar, Cathell said.

"Our hangar is destroyed and all our food is gone," he said.

In addition to Cathell, the rescue crew members were Lt. Cmdr. Mark Turner, pilot, Petty Officer 3rd Class Jason Menezes, flight mechanic, and Petty Officer 3rd Class Jon Geskus, rescue swimmer.

The men reported that the winds were so strong, the rain was coming down sideways against the helicopter. In the heavy seas, Geskus lost his fins and part of his suit on the first deployment, and said the waves "looked like mountains."

The Coast Guard rescue crew transferred the boaters to Providenciales Airport. No injuries were reported.


If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Long & Foster Real Estate for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

Athletes, Volunteers Gearing Up For Second SavageMan Triathlon Fest

courtesy Republican News


Sep. 11, 2008

The second annual SavageMan Tri-To-Win Triathlon will take place on Sunday, Sept. 21, in Garrett County, and will involve nearly 600 athletes from all over the world. Several local residents will take part in either part or all of the three-sport event, joining registrants from 23 states, Washington, D.C., the Virgin Islands, Canada, Belgium, and Sweden.
"The excitement is growing. The SavageMan is a great attraction for the United States and internationally," said Greg Safko, race director and board member.

A triathlon is an athletic event consisting of swimming, biking, and running. After the success of last year's first SavageMan Triathlon, the local event has now become known as "the world's most beautiful and most savage triathlon," Safko said.

The internationally renowned "Half" distance event is a strenuous race consisting of 1.2 miles of swimming in the open waters of Deep Creek Lake, 56 miles of road bicycling, and 13.1 miles of running.

A second, shorter competition, called the International Race, has been added this year, offering athletes a "more forgiving" event. It consists of a .93-mile swim, 23-mile bike, and 6.2-mile run.

Safko wished to alert all residents to the paths of the races, so that persons may come out to watch and support the athletes, as well as make sure dogs are kept inside for the short duration when runners and bikers will be passing by. Drivers should be aware that racers will be on the roadways as well.

Both events will begin at the Deep Creek Lake State Park on Sept. 21 at 8 a.m. (with registration open that morning at 6:30 a.m.). Athletes will begin their journeys by running into Deep Creek Lake and swimming the allotted distances.

They will then move on to the biking portion of the race, with athletes getting to the road somewhere around 8:30 a.m. They will head out of the state park on Toothpick Road onto Glendale for about 3 miles, and then onto Spring Lick Road for about 5. They will be on Savage River Road for 6 miles, and then go on through smaller roads to Westernport Road for 4.2 miles. There the riders will encounter the Westernport Wall, which is the most challenging portion of the bike race.

A special spectator shuttle will transport supporters from the state park to the Westernport Wall, leaving the park around 8 a.m. and returning after the bikers have conquered the steep incline. Those wishing to ride the shuttle should register at the event web site: www.savagemantri.org. Fans are invited to bring noisemakers, because the athletes "need all the encouragement they can get as they get through Westernport," the web site states.

The bikers will then head back toward Garrett County, along McAndrews Hill and New Germany roads, and then Otto Lane. They will travel along Jennings Road for 1.8 miles, onto Miller Road, Maynardier Ridge Road for about 4 miles, and then on Bittinger to Orendorf roads.

They will be on Beachy Road for a little over a mile, and then on Rock Lodge Road for 5.2 miles. They will then follow State Park Road back to the park.

Bikers are expected to start returning to the state park around 11 a.m. They will then begin the run, which begins on the gravel road next to the lake. They will run the length of the state park and go behind the Discovery Center. Runners will then take a right on State Park Road and left onto Brant Road. After a turnaround on that road, they will circumnavigate the park's campgrounds and return to State Park Road. A 2-mile jaunt on State Park Road will lead to a 1/4 mile climb up Thayerville Fire Tower Road and to a turnaround. Runners will return again to State Park Road and down Meadow Mountain Lane, re-entering the state park and completing the loop.

The International Race participants will share part of this course in their events, although their paths are shorter.

The first athletes in the SavageMan Half are expected to come through the finish line sometime around 12:45 p.m. The International race should start wrapping up about an hour earlier.

The final cut-off for racers is 4:40 p.m. During those hours, all residents, especially those living in that area, are asked to take note of the roadways involved and be aware of the athletes. All are encouraged to come out and cheer for the participants, Safko said.

Some athletes will do one portion of the races, such as just the bike event or just the running. Others are taking on the entire race. The results will be available online at the event web site, and local results will be reported in The Republican when they become available.

All proceeds of the SavageMan "Tri-to-Win...the fight against melanoma" Triathlon Festival benefit the Joanna M. Nicolay Melanoma Foundation's efforts toward medical research leading to a cure for melanoma, opportunities to educate the general public on prevention and the seriousness of melanoma, and the development of resources for patients and the entire melanoma community.

Melanoma is the most serious and lethal form of skin cancer that strikes individuals of all ages, races, and economic levels.

"The foundation is very instrumental as 'the voice for melanoma prevention, detection, care, and cure,'" Safko said.


If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Long & Foster Real Estate for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

Phelps Family Named As AG Grand Marshals

courtesy Republican News


Sep. 11, 2008

The Grand Marshals of Garrett County’s 41st annual Autumn Glory Festival Grand Feature Parade have been announced as Michael Phelps's mother, Debbie Phelps, and his sisters, Hillary and Whitney. The parade is slated for Saturday, Oct. 11.
The family will be featured in the annual parade, which will begin at 1 p.m. in Oakland. Yellowstone at Deep Creek Lake Custom Log Homes is the sponsor of the Grand Marshal position.

During and after the Olympics, Phelps and her daughters have been interviewed by the Today Show, the Associated Press, and Time Magazine. Debbie Phelps has also been interviewed by Good Housekeeping Magazine, US Magazine, NBC News, The New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, and ABC News. Since the games have ended, Phelps has received numerous speaking engagement requests as well as offered multiple movie and book deals.

The Autumn Glory Festival runs Oct. 8–12, and includes a kick-off reception at Wisp Resort, two large parades, concerts, the Oktoberfest celebration, the Maryland State Banjo & Fiddle Championships, art exhibits, the Western Maryland Tournament of Bands, and antique and craft shows.

The festival landed in the international spotlight last fall, when the travel web site msn.com listed it among the top fall festivals in the world, topping Festival d’Automne in Paris and Oktoberfest in Munich.

"Music, parades and awesome colors are at the center of this festival," noted the site, plugging in particular the Grand Feature Parade, the Maryland State Banjo & Fiddle Championships, and the Tournament of Bands.

For more information about Autumn Glory Festival, persons may visit www.autumngloryfestival.-com or call 301-387-4386.




If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Long & Foster Real Estate for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

Garrett County Fair Board Awarded $20,000 State Grant

courtesy Republican News


Sep. 4, 2008

Gov. Martin O'Malley announced Friday that the state has approved a $20,000 grant to help fund a strategic economic development study of the Garrett County Fairgrounds.
"Agriculture is an important part of the county's economy and a big influence with regard to our heritage and culture," said Denny Glotfelty, chairman of the Board of Garrett County Commissioners. "This grant will help sustain and promote interest in agriculture-related activities and businesses throughout the county."

Awarded through the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development (DBED), the grant is being used in conjunction with matching funds from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and $8,600 from Garrett County government and the Fair Board.

The study will help determine if the fairgrounds and its buildings are being fully utilized, while maintaining its main function as an agricultural and community center.

"The board is pleased the study is being funded by DBED, ARC, and Garrett County," said Debra Friend, president of the board of directors of the Garrett County Agriculture Fair Inc. "We recognize that increasing the utilization of the fairground facilities will contribute to the continued viability of the fair itself, as well as make space available to county residents and businesses in which to hold a variety of events."

The five-month study is being conducted by HOK Smith Forkner, Knoxville, Tenn., which has been responsible for the planning and design of over 180 fairgrounds throughout the U.S., including the Maryland State Fair, Montgomery County Agricultural Fair, and the state fair of Virginia.

"This grant represents a continuing commitment to support rural Maryland's agricultural industry by maximizing the opportunities the Garrett County Fairgrounds can offer to residents and businesses," said O'Malley. "We are pleased to leverage state funding with ARC and our local partners for this important study."


If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Long & Foster Real Estate for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

GCSO Responds To Hostage Situation In Pot. State Forest

courtesy Republican News


Sep. 4, 2008

Garrett County sheriff's deputies arrested a Charles County man yesterday after receiving a report of a person in the area of Lost Land Run Road, Potomac State Forest, who had taken multiple persons hostage. The report stated that the suspect had threatened to kill the hostages, while brandishing several pistols and assault-style rifles.
Garrett County Sheriff’s Office deputies received the call at approximately 4:40 p.m. When they arrived near the scene, they learned that the suspect, identified as Christopher Conrad Slough, 38, Indian Head, had fired numerous shots at a vehicle that had fled from the area. Members of the GCSO Special Response Team, in addition to a GCSO hostage negotiator, responded to the immediate scene and located an armed individual threatening himself as well as responding deputies.

Sheriff’s office personnel secured the scene to prevent Potomac State Forest visitors from unknowingly entering the proximity of the armed suspect, as well as to keep the suspect from escaping the area and taking other visitors hostage. The hostage negotiator was able to open an avenue of communications with the suspect, and after nearly two hours of negotiation, the suspect surrendered without further incident.

Deputies recovered a total of 13 weapons and over several hundred rounds of ammunition at the scene. The weapons seized included four semi-automatic assault weapons, one 12-gauge pump-action shotgun, one pump-action rifle, one bolt-action weapon, one large caliber revolver, and five large caliber semi-automatic handguns. A number of these weapons have been identified as having been reported stolen.

Slough was charged with four counts of first degree assault, four counts of reckless endangerment, four counts of second degree assault, and two counts of false imprisonment. The investigation is continuing, and additional charges may be filed.

Southern Garrett County Rescue Squad and Maryland State Police Trooper 3 also responded to the scene.


If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Long & Foster Real Estate for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350