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April 21 - April 27, 2025 Events- Garrett County Chamber Of Commerce

Garrett County Chamber Of Commerce

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April 21 - April 27, 2025

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May Business After Hours 2025 - Market on 42

The Chamber is pleased to announce that the Market on 42 will be hosting our May Business After Hours on Thursday, May 8th from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm. 

 

The Market on 42 is an outdoor market that houses locally owned shops. These shops include Railey Design, Secondhand Citizen, Appalachian Print Studio, Wild Ember Bakery and OMG Relax

 

Enjoy delicious food and drinks as you mingle with fellow Chamber members and Chamber staff at our monthly networking events. Don't forget your business card to enter to win prizes. 

 

$10.00 in advance for members

$15.00 for members at the door and non-members

To register, click here.

Business Before Hours - Legislative Wrap-Up 2025

The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce has scheduled its next Business Before Hours for Tuesday, May 13, 2025 at the Perfroming Arts Center at Garrett College. The Chamber will welcome back Senator Mike McKay and Delegate Jim Hinebaugh for an informational presentation on the 447th session of the Maryland General Assembly, convened in Annapolis, Maryland January 8 through April 7, 2025. Attendees will hear directly from our elected officials on which bills passed, which did not, how these legislative decisions will impact the county, region, and state, and what the upcoming election cycle holds for future policy issues.  

 

$25 for members

$30 for non-members

To register, click here

 

The event is sponsored by Byco Enterprises, Inc and Garrett Regional Medical Center, a proud partner of WVU Medicine. 

 

 

The Bloodhounds Will Return to Garrett County

The National Police Bloodhound Association (NPBA) will be hosting their annual 40-hour training certification seminar in Garrett County, Maryland Sunday April 27, 2025 to Thursday May 1, 2025. This is one of the NPBA's annual seminars held each year and has held the spring seminar in Garrett County for many years. The seminar happens at a time of the year, between seasons in Garrett County, and for many of the businesses, it contributes to the economy.

Training areas will remain largely the same as in previous years, including Grantsville, Oakland, Friendsville, Accident, Mt. Lake Park/Broadford Area, state parks, the 4-H Complex near Bittinger, and the fairgrounds in McHenry. We expect approximately 40 handlers and hounds to participate this year, with up to 60 total people in attendance. Host lodging will again be provided by WISP Resort, and now that Garrett College has recongnized this course through the Continuing Education Department, Sunday classes will be held in a classroom at the College.

 

The bloodhounds are training, so please be respectful and don't interrupt them or be alarmed.  

Now Accepting Applications for 2025 Autumn Glory Royalty

Please help spread the word that the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce is inviting all those Garrett County students currently in their junior year of high school to submit an Autumn Glory Royalty application for consideration. We will be choosing a King and a Queen to represent the 58th Annual Autumn Glory Festival at a variety of events throughout the summer and fall of 2025. Both the King and Queen will receive an educational contribution. As part of the application, you are required to submit a 300-word essay on why you think you should be selected to be part of the Royalty Court. In an effort to give all qualifying students a chance to become Autumn Glory Royalty we have eliminated the application fee. Interviews will be conducted by appointment in May and we hope to complete the process by June 1Please click here to download the applicationIf you have any questions, please contact Nick Sharps at nick@garrettchamber.com or call (301) 387-8745.

Help Address Your Workforce Issues with the Updated Work Ethic Diploma Program!

After 5 successful years we feel it is time to make some changes to the Work Ethic Diploma (WED) Program to keep the it relevant and take it to the next level. The concept of the program was originally put forward to the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce by employers who felt students were not learning the soft skills necessary to become productive members of the workforce.

 

With the input of area educators, business leaders, and post-secondary representatives, we developed standards to evaluate the work ethic of our students. These standards are not being changed. Based on feedback from employers participating in the program and discussions with our stakeholders we have decided to replace the hourly pay incentive with a more tangible sign-on bonus to be rewarded after a qualifying length of employment. Another exciting change we are implementing is a Worth Ethic Diploma Reception that will recognize and celebrate students receiving the honor and our business partners participating in the program. This will be a great opportunity for you to network and recruit prospects. More details on this event will follow.

 

Whether you are a current WED partner or looking to join the program, we ask that you please review and sign the new form and return it to holly@garrettchamber.com or 15 Visitors Center Drive, McHenry, MD 21541. You can also click here for the criteria and business commitment form updated with changes highlighted for your convenience. We appreciate your participation and look forward to working with you to grow and enhance the Work Ethic Diploma Program to better meet Garrett County’s workforce challenges.

Office Depot - April Monthly Specials

This April, enjoy members-only exclusive specials with discounts of up to 84% off folders, desk accessories, sticky notes, and more. Take advantage of these monthly specials when you shop online for office, school, and home essentials at ODP Business Solutions. Click here to view the April 2025 Monthly Specials. Click here for more information on the program and to register.

 

Member News

 

The Hidden Cost of an Overpolished Portfolio Website

 

Chamber members may submit company announcements (awards, new hires, promotions, events) for inclusion in the Member News. For instruction on submitting Member News, contact: nick@garrettchamber.com or call (301) 387-5237.

New Members

 

Marine Plus DCL

 

Fleur de Montagna - Deep Creeks Only Frank Lloyd Wright Inspired

Prairie Vacation Home

 

Watch this space for new members! Consider reaching out to welcome them to

the Chamber.

Special Promotions

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Garrett County Chamber of Commerce | 15 Visitors Center Drive | McHenry, MD 21541 US

 

K9 Emergency Medical Care Training

K9 Emergency Medical Care Training

On April 12th Garrett County Emergency Services hosted an inter-departmental training and continuing education program lead by the President of the National Association of Veterinary Emergency Medical Services, flight paramedic, and Impact EMS instructor Rick Maricle. 

The topic of the training was operational K9 emergency medical care. This CAPCE accredited course was supplemented by a K9 officer for non-invasive assessment and the latest state-of-the-art high fidelity K9 mannequin for advanced skill demonstration and training. Personnel from Garrett County Emergency Services, Southern Garrett Rescue Company 9Bittinger Volunteer Fire DepartmentDeep Creek Volunteer Fire CompanyMaryland State PoliceMaryland Institute for Emergency Medical Services Systems (MIEMSS) and Maryland Department of Natural Resources - Natural Resources Police came together for this excellent training opportunity.

 

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Free Days Set At Deep Creek Lake State Park

The Garrett County Republican

 

McHENRY — The DCL100 Centennial Committee, in partnership with the Maryland Park Service, has announced that the Deep Creek Lake State Park will have free entrance for one day in each of the months of May, June, July and August.

 

“As we began planning for this 100th birthday celebration for Deep Creek Lake, one of the core goals was to make sure the ‘Lake’ was accessible and affordable for everyone to come and enjoy,” said Karen Myers, Co-Chair of the DCL100 Committee. “There is nothing more affordable than free.”

 

31st-annual Women's Hall of Fame celebration held

The Garrett County Republican

 

DEEP CREEK LAKE — The 31st annual Women’s Hall of Fame celebration was held Saturday morning, April 12, at Ace’s Run Restaurant & Pub, Deep Creek Lake. The event honors Garrett County women who make a difference.

 

Sponsored by the Garrett County Commission for Women, it recognizes new inductees into the Garrett County Women’s Hall of Fame, gives Young Woman of Distinction Awards and presents scholarships.

 

“Today we honor nine deserving women for their significant contributions to the Garrett County Community celebrating their commitment to leadership, community service and pursuit of academic excellence,” said Rhiannon Dodge Chair of the Garrett County Commission for Women.

 

This year’s Hall of Fame inductees are the late Kathryn Bowser, nominated by Kevin Dodge, Audrey Kennedy, nominated by Jaiden Todd, and Emily Newman-Edwards, nominated by Jan Russell.

 

Kathryn Bowser’s son Henry accepted the award on his mother’s behalf.

 

“It is my honor to have nominated and to honor Kathryn Bowser, a wonderful, remarkable woman,” said Kevin Dodge. “Wherever you go, there are people who folks recognize as pillars of their community. These are people who go above and beyond to give their time and their talents in service to their fellow citizens. For over 50 years, Kathryn Bowser was a pillar of the community of Bittinger.”

 

Audrey Kennedy’s nomination letter was read by Pam Trickett on behalf of her employees who nominated her.

 

“We believe that Audrey is the best choice for this honor because of her constant promotion of compassionate care, advocacy and service within the Garrett County community,” the letter stated.

 

Jan Russell spoke about her nominee, Emily Newman-Edwards.

 

 

Inductee Emily Newman-Edwards accepts a citation from Judy Carbone, Maryland Commission for Women commissioner.

 

“It is my honor to be here with Emily and her family,” she said. “We’re so proud of her. She has been my right hand and has been a tremendous help.”

 

She spoke of the help Newman-Edwards gave in growing Savage River Lodge after coming to them as a college student with great enthusiasm and professional skills.

 

“She has contributed to the economic development of Grantsville by helping us with our property,” Russell said.

 

She also spoke of her time on the town council and being elected the first female mayor of Grantsville.

 

Garrett County Commissioner Paul Edwards noted that the commissioners join in honoring the inductees and declared April 12, 2025 as Garrett County Commission for Women Hall of Fame Day in the county.

 

 

He presented a proclamation honoring each of the inductees, noting that their efforts “play a pivotal role is shaping the county’s progress.

 

“The county seeks to highlight and celebrate the achievements of today’s women leaders, while providing visible role models for future generations through the Garrett County Women’s Hall of Fame,” the proclamation read. It was signed by all three commissioners. Larry Tichnell was also in attendance.

 

Del. Jim Hinebaugh offered an official citation for outstanding contributions to Garrett County.

 

 

Robin Summerfield attended on behalf of Senator Chris Van Hollen. He also presented citations “in appreciation for outstanding contributions to the economic, political and cultural life of Garrett County and with gratitude for all that was done to inspire women.”

 

Edena Bradford attended and presented citations on behalf of Congresswoman April McClain Delaney.

 

Maryland Commission for Women Commissioner Judy Carbone made presentations on behalf of Gov. Wes Moore, who sent his greetings.

 

The Young Woman of Distinction Award was given to Kambria Kyle.

 

Young Woman of Distinction Kambria Kyle accepts a citation from Robin Summerfield.

Five $750 Garrett County Commission for Women Scholarships were also presented. Recipients were Aaliyah Rhodes, Hannah Moyer, Leah Brenneman, Linsay Liller and Lizzie Bird.

 

Former Hall of Fame inductees in attendance were Linda Buckel, Heather Hanline, Judy Carbone, Linda Edwards, Charlotte Sebold, Peggy Jamison and Brenda McDonnell.

 

Editor Brenda Ruggiero can be reached at 301-501-8393 or by email at bruggiero@therepublicannews.com.

 

 

County Commissioners Announce Public Meeting Agenda

County Commissioners Announce Public Meeting Agenda

 

PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA

 

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

 

Agenda Session Times are Approximate

 

Meeting will also be Live Streamed at https://www.facebook.com/garrettcountygovernment/

 

The Board of County Commissioners may close a portion of this public meeting and move into Executive Session to comply with a specific constitutional, statutory, or judicial requirement that may prevent public disclosure about a particular proceeding or matter. 

 

             *To comment on agenda items – please send to @garrettcountymd.gov

 

                  3:00        Administrative Session   

 

Board Appointments – Garrett County Civil Service Board                   

Accident Community Housing Corporation – Request for Fiscal Year 2026 County Property Tax Abatement

Declaration of Surplus County Property – Bush Hog Mower 25HP Kohler

Petition for the Opening of a Public Roadway – McHenry Business Park Drive

Mr. Null will review a number of administrative and managerial matters under his authority and jurisdiction with the Board of County Commissioners 

4:00       Call to Order of Public Session, Invocation, and Pledge of Allegiance

 

              County Administrator – Additions/Deletions to Public Meeting Agenda

 

              Approval of Public, Administrative, and Executive Meeting Minutes

 

4:05       Proclamations – National Day of Prayer – May 1, 2025

 

                                        Mental Health Awareness Month – May 2025  

 

                                        Children’s Mental Health Week – May 4–10, 2025

 

4:10        Garrett County Department of Financial Services – Purchasing Division – Bid Recommendations

 

                                            Bid Approval:  Bid # 25 – 0327  Garrett County Health Center Boiler Replacement Project 

 

                                            Bid Rejection:  Bid# 25 – 0320  Community Action Boiler Replacement Project

 

4:25       Public Commentary

 

ADJOURNMENT OF PUBLIC SESSION

 

 

 

4:30       FISCAL YEAR 2026 BUDGET PRESENTATIONS:

 

                      Garrett County Health Department

 

                      Garrett College

 

                      Garrett County Board of Education

 

       Public issues or concerns that are to be presented to the Board of Garrett County Commissioners during any Public Meeting should be scheduled with Carol A. Riley–Alexander, Executive Assistant to the Board of County Commissioners/County Administrator.     

 

The Board of Garrett County Commissioners’ next scheduled Public Meeting will be on Monday, May 5, 2025 at the Garrett County Courthouse beginning at 4:00 PM.   

 

Grants Given To State Parks

April 14th, 2025 by WCBC Radio

 

Friends of Maryland State Parks has awarded 22 grants totaling over $37,000 to state parks across Maryland. Funding through the non-profit’s “Small Grants, Big Impact” program will support projects that enhance cultural history education, protect dunes, expand recreation, and promote conservation. Grants range from $900 to $2,000. Deep Creek Lake State Park received funding to expand a rain garden, and plant native species around the park’s aviary.

What's Happening In Garrett County-Garrett County Chamber Of Commerce

Garrett County Chamber Of Commerce

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April 16 - April 22, 2025

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April 17 | 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm 

Deep Creek Lake-Themed Team Trivia Nights 

Aces Run Restaurant, Oakland, MD.

Test your knowledge of all things Deep Creek Lake with Team Trivia Nights every Thursday evening 6-8pm throughout April at Ace's Run! Food and drink available and there will be prizes, including a cool custom DCL100 award for the winning team each week!

Questions will be drawn from our archive and timeline on the website, so study up!

More info on the Deep Creek Lake Centennial including more events, projects, an interactive timeline and more available at https://dcl100.com/

April 17 | 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm 

Friends and Couples Wine Pairing @ Smoke N Mirrors

114 South 3rd Street, Oakland, MD.

Come join us for another Friends and Couples wine tasting in the Gallery and try five different wine pairings with light fare.  The pairing begins at 6:00 and tickets can be purchased ($30 per person) at the link below or by phone at (304) 277-7700. Seating is limited to 24 people and advanced reservations are required, so reserve early!

 

https://koalendar.com/e/friends-and-couples-April-17

April 17 | 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm 

Team Trivia  

Mountain State Brewing Company, 6690 Sang Run Rd, McHenry, MD.

Team Trivia every Thursday, free to play! Contact information: 301-387-3360. 

April 19 & 20  

Shiitake Inoculation Weekend

Backcbone Farm, 530 Lynndale Rd, Oakland, MD.

Two day Event! Saturday 4/19 10-6 and Sunday 4/20 10-4!

Join us for our annual Backbone Farm Shiitake Inoculation party! We will spend the weekend drilling, stuffing, and waxing 1000 Shiitake mushroom logs to keep our production rolling. We will provide some food and some drink for all participants, so come hang out and eat a little and work a little! 

-This is an outdoor event, with some of the area being under roof, so come dressed for the weather. Rain, shine or snow!

- We will have food and beverages available, but feel free to bring something to share! 

- Please leave your dogs at home, we have plenty to go around.

- Free camping available, contact us for details!

We hope to see you out here to help us celebrate spring and get a big job done in a small amount of time! Free Community Event!

Contact information: katharine@backbonefarm.com

April 19 | 10:00 am - 1:00 pm 

Spring Farmers Markets by Mountain Fresh Producers Association

Mountain Fresh Pavilion, S 1st St., Oakland, MD.

Join us for our spring farmers markets!  Our vendors will have fresh produce, meats, eggs, baked goods, jams & jellies, crafts, and personal care items. 

Want to get updates and product availability lists for the market? Sign up for our weekly email list at mountainfresh.org.

April 20 | 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm 

Team Bingo

Mountain State Brewing Company, 6690 Sang Run Road, McHenry, MD.

Team Bingo every Sunday at 1pm!

Contact information: 301-387-3360. 

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Public Hearing Set For Solar Facility

Wcbc Radio

April 8th, 2025 by WCBC Radio

More than 1,800 acres along Route 36 near Westernport and Barton may be used to build a 300 megawatt solar project. A virtual public hearing on the project is scheduled for April 15 and will include a presentation by Jade Meadow LLC, the applicant for the facility along with statements by the Department of Natural Resources and the Office of the People’s Counsel, the state’s ratepayer advocate. The project also touches a portion of Garrett County. To sign up for the hearing, visit psc.state.md.us.