Garrett County Airport @ Deep Creek Lake Expansion Project Finalized
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Seven-Year Long Airport Expansion Project Finalized
Mar. 11, 2010
The Garrett County Airport Runaway Extension Project is officially completed now that all the paperwork has been finalized, airport manager Ed Kelley told the county commissioners on Tuesday.
His announcement was part of a General Services departmental update report presented by director Gary Mullich.
Because of funding issues, the $17.5 million project was conducted in two phases over seven years. Design work and land acquisition began in 2003. Ground was broken in late 2004, and, finally, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the expanded airport last year.
“Construction was completed in 2009, but we were still in the process of completing the paperwork,” Kelley said. He noted that pro-cess took about eight months.
Mullich said the commissioners signed off on the airport layout plan about four weeks ago.
“That was the last piece of paperwork to go, which documents everything we’ve done for the last seven years,” the director said.
The project resulted in the airport length being increased by 2,000 feet. Construction there included a new 50-foot parallel taxiway, 24 airplane T-hangars, terminal and equipment buildings, and water/sewer lines. A new trackless vehicle, an upgraded AWOS (automated weather observing system), a new card reader system, and new security system were also added.
Funding came from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), about 82 percent, or $14.4 million; Garrett County, about 14 percent, or $2.4 million; Maryland Aviation Administration (MAA), about 4 percent, or $691,000; and Federal Emergency Management Agency, about .002 percent, or $37,500.
Kelley said he compiled some before-construction and after-construction statistics, which indicate the expansion costs were a “very good investment” for the county.
In 2004, total sales at the airport amounted to $28,889, compared to $183,476 last year, according to Kelley.
“So, you can see the large jump in total sales,” he told the commissioners.
The average number of flights per day also increased. In ’04, there were 4.55 per day, compared to 7.85 last year when the expansion project was completed.
Kelley also noted there was a “large jump” in jet A fuel and avgas sales. In ’04, there were 8,465 gallons sold for a total income of $22,628. Last year, 24,349 gallons were sold, garnering the county $96,078.
More hangars at the airport also means more income for the county. In ’04, the county had only four hangars and received $3,760 in rent. Last year’s income was $76,806.
Read the rest of the article here.
If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350
Deep Creek Lake Level Still Being Lowered; Public Warned Of Dangerous Ice
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Lake Level Still Being Lowered; Public Warned Of Dangerous Ice
Mar. 11, 2010
The Deep Creek Hydroelectric Station issued another press release this week in its continuing effort to alert persons to the potentially dangerous conditions on Deep Creek Lake. The company is working with the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to monitor the snow pack, lake ice thickness, and water level at the lake.
Brookfield Renewable Power, owner of the Deep Creek Hydroelectric Station, in ongoing consultation with the agencies, is making adjustments to the lake level in an effort to minimize serious and potentially damaging high water conditions that will occur as this winter’s record lake ice and snow pack thaw. Recreational users of the lake should use extra caution as changing conditions can be dangerous. Persons should be aware that the water level is dropping, so the ice crust may be unsafe.
Brookfield announced last week that it had consulted with MDE and DNR and been granted a waiver to draw the lake level down to two feet below the March lower limit of its water use permit. The 2-foot drawdown was achieved on Sunday, March 7.
The Deep Creek Hydroelectric Station operates under a Water Appropriation and Use permit from the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). Under the permit conditions, the station uses water to generate hydropower, while keeping lake levels within a defined “rule band” with upper and lower limits. Any waiver from the rule band limits must be approved by MDE.
Representatives of the MDE, DNR, and Brookfield met Monday to review current lake levels, weather forecasts, and the latest measurement of the snow pack and lake ice. At that meeting, it was determined that Brookfield will continue to gradually lower the lake level beyond the original 2-foot waiver.
“Our goal is to get the lake to a level where it can safely accommodate the snow melt, thus avoiding high water and pressure on the dam,” said David Barnhart, general manager for Brookfield’s Mid-America Operations. “We’ve agreed with MDE to do all we can to lower the lake further.”
Barnhart added that public safety is a top priority for all involved. Brookfield, MDE and DNR continue to advise users on or near Deep Creek Lake to be observant for changing conditions.
“With the water level being drawn away under the ice cover, and this week’s spring-like temperatures, we continue to remind users of the surface of Deep Creek Lake to be extremely cautious,” said Carolyn Mathews, manager of the Deep Creek Lake Recreation Area.
She added that unseen hazards “always exist when recreating on naturally-formed ice.”
The officials said that lower water levels and warmer temperatures may present the following dangers:
•Ice that cracks or suddenly shifts as additional weight is applied;
•Ice that shifts, lifts, and/or settles, creating unexpected ridges;
• Ice slabs that break off near the shoreline, creating open water between stable interior ice and the shore.
Because many people are potentially affected by the lowering of the water level, MDE is requiring that public notice be provided to the local media. For more information on the lake’s level, persons may visit www.deepcreekhydro.com.
If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350
Melting Snow, Rainfall Could Cause Flooding
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(Jay’s note: I took this pic of the Youghiogheny River yesterday, and Oakland had already started placing ‘High Water’ signs at certain points that were starting to flood. I think it’s important enough to read these flood warnings just in case)
Melting Snow, Rainfall Could Cause Flooding
Mar. 11, 2010
Because of the unusually high amount of snow that has fallen this winter, flooding is expected in the area in the days ahead.
“Residents should prepare now for possible future floods,” said Director Brad Frantz, Garrett County Department of Public Safety and Emergency Management.
Garrett County government, Public Safety, and public roads officials, in conjunction with Allegany County and Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), have been taking appropriate steps to minimize the effects of flooding. That includes organizing damage assessment teams ready to be deployed to assess public infrastructure and individual residential and business damages; preparing shelters for evacuation areas, clearing drainage areas, pre-staging swift-water rescue teams; and declaring a local state of emergency in order to acquire outside resources.
Frantz offered the following steps that residents can take in advance to prepare for floods:
•Make sure your insurance policy covers flooding. Even renters are eligible for flood insurance. For more information, you can contact a local insurance agent.
•Move furniture and valuables to higher floors as floodwaters rise.
•Keep your car’s gas tank filled in case you need to evacuate.
Follow the instructions given by emergency officials. If told to evacuate, do so.
Listen to radio or television for information, and have a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio with a warning alarm tone and battery-back-up to receive warnings. You may also receive telephone messages from Garrett County’s reverse 9-1-1 system, which will give you specific instructions.
A flash flood or flood watch means that flash flooding or flooding is possible within the designated watch area. Citizens are advised to be alert.
A flash flood or flood warning means that flash flooding or flooding has been reported or is imminent and citizens are advised to take necessary precautions at once.
An urban and small stream advisory means that flooding of small streams, streets and low-lying areas such as railroad underpasses and urban storm drains is occurring.
If you receive a flash flood warning, you may have only seconds to take the following actions:
•Get out of the area subject to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, canyons, and washes.
•Avoid already flooded and high or rapidly flowing areas. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams.
•If driving, be aware that the road bed may not be intact under flood waters. Turn around and go another way; never drive through flooded roadways.
•If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground. Rapidly rising water may engulf the vehicle and its occupants and sweep them away. Remember, it is better to be wet than dead.
•Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
•Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening weather conditions.
•If you come to a flowing stream where water is above your ankles. Stop, turn around, and go another way.
•To report damage from flooding, you may call the Garrett County Public Safety 24-hr. hotline at 301-334-4444.
For more information about flooding, a joint publication of the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the American Red Cross is available. For a free copy of “Repairing Your Flooded Home,” you can write FEMA Publications, P.O. Box 70274, Washington, D.C., 20024, or call 1-800-480-2520.
Additional information can be found on MEMA’s web site at mema.state.md.-us/MEMA/content_page.-jsp?TOPICID=floods or at www.floodsmart.gov.
If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350
Brutus Scheffel Wins 4th Straight State Championship
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There was no prouder grandfather in the state of Maryland on Saturday than George Scheffel Sr. of Oakland, who is pictured congratulating his grandson George III – also known as Brutus – after the Southern High School senior won his fourth straight Maryland high school wrestling championship, a feat that had been accomplished by only three other wrestlers in the history of the state tournament. The icing on the cake for George Sr. was that Jakob “Bubba” Scheffel, younger brother of Brutus, claimed his second state title, as did teammates Lex Ozias and Davey Stewart. The four individual titles, plus a runner-up win by Ryan Bennett, gave the Rams their second consecutive team state championship.
If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350
Mountainside at Deep Creek Lake - community profile
Mountainside memories will be yours forever in this lovely wooded lake access community at Deep Creek Lake. Spectacular views are afforded on many lots while others offer that tucked away privacy you are looking for. This exquisite neighborhood offers a great location plus on-site amenities including a lakeside clubhouse, tennis and basketball courts with pavilion, hiking trails and boat dock privileges. Make Mountainside your home away from home!
Special Features
Lake and mountain views.
Close to all lake activities, including Deep Creek Lake State Park & Wisp Ski & Golf Resort.
Lakeside clubhouse located next to one of Deep Creek Lake’s best attractions- the Lakeside Creamery.
Common areas in the community featuring tennis courts, basketball courts, a covered pavilion, a mountaintop deck showcasing the views of Deep Creek Lake & surrounding mountains, and hiking trails.
Amenities
– Basketball Court
– Hiking Paths
– Lakeside Deck
– Mountain Views
– Pavilion
– Multiple Dockslips- Common
– Tennis Court
– Water Access
– Water Views
More links:
www.DCLinfo.com/Mountainside – search all Deep Creek Lake communities
Here is a link to local news & information about Mountainside.
Search Railey Realty properties for sale at Mountainside subdivision.
Railey Realty Blog – Mountainside Info
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s1rIGLJTkUc&hl=en_US&fs=1&]
Buying or selling real estate at Mountainside? Call Jay Ferguson!
877-563-5350 toll free
If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350
Sharp-shinned hawk photo - Republican Newspaper
From the Republican Newspaper: A sharp-shinned hawk paid a visit to an Oakland back yard recently, and was photographically captured by Lisa Rook, advertising manager of this newspaper. A variety of critters have had difficulty this winter just trying to find enough food to survive because of the deep blanket of snow, …and this guy was eying fellow – much smaller – fowls on Lisa’s birdfeeder. SUPPORT THE REPUBLICAN! Buy an online membership for $9.95/YEAR!
If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350
House Committee To Review Beitzel's Wind Turbine Bills
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House Committee To Review Beitzel’s Wind Turbine Bills
Mar. 11, 2010
The House Economic Matters Committee will hear three separate proposals sponsored by Del. Wendell Beitzel next Tuesday, March 16 – House Bills 390, 791, and 1013.
HB 390 would give the Garrett County commissioners the authority to enact ordinances regarding commercial grade wind turbines. Specifically, the measure would authorize the commissioners to enact ordinances regarding setbacks and the decommissioning of wind turbines.
This bill has been supported by the Garrett County commissioners and the Garrett County Board of Realtors, Beitzel noted.
“This measure was brought to Sen. George Edwards and me as a request from the Garrett County commissioners during a pre-legislative meeting to set minimal standards for wind turbine development in Garrett County,” Beitzel said.
HB 791 and 1013 would be statewide in scope. HB 791 would require the Public Service Commission and the Department of Natural Resources to jointly develop performance standards regarding wind-powered electric generating turbines erected in the state.
HB 1013 would require a surcharge, bond, or other security for the removal of wind-powered electric generating facilities in the event that they outlive their usefulness.
“These measures provide some much needed regulatory controls for wind turbine projects with capacity of less than 70 megawatts that have been exempted from the need to obtain a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity since the passage of Senate Bill 566 in 2007,” Beitzel added.
Read the rest of the article here.
If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350
Legislation To Help GC Doctors Fails House, Senate Committees
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Legislation To Help GC Doctors Fails House, Senate Committees
Mar. 11, 2010
Legislation offered by both Del. Wendell R. Beitzel and Sen. George C. Edwards failed to receive approval of the House Judiciary Committee and the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committees this week. The legislation proposed to include Garrett County doctors performing obstetrical services under the classification of state employee over the next five years.
“This legislation did not increase state spending,” said Beitzel. “All it sought to do was provide much needed medical liability insurance assistance for family doctors who provide obstetrical service for the women and children of Garrett County.”
The family practitioners were receiving a subsidy as a result of a 2007 legislation presented by Beitzel and Edwards that was subsequently signed into law by Gov. O’Malley. The legislation provided more than $750,000 over three year, but had a sunset provision that ended the subsidy on Dec. 31, 2009.
Money for the physicians’ medical malpractice insurance subsidy was provided from the Rate Stabilization Fund. Subsequent efforts to continue the subsidy by legislation introduced by both Beitzel and Edwards failed in 2009 after receiving considerable opposition by the O’Malley administration, which earlier had diverted the proceeds from the Rate Stabilization Fund for other uses.
“Garrett County is unique,” Beitzel told the House Judiciary Committee. “There is no other county in the state that is in the same position that we are in. Because the next best hospital is at least 45 minutes to an hour away, this is a women’s health issue.”
Garrett County is Maryland’s sole jurisdiction without a practicing obstetrician. The county relies on the high quality obstetrical care provided by four family practitioners and has some of the state’s best birth outcome indicators, Beitzel noted.
Read the rest of the article here.
If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350
Suites at Silver Tree - Deep Creek Lake Condominiums
Community Profile: Silver Tree Suites at Deep Creek Lake via DCLinfo.com
Search for real estate for sale at Silver Tree Suites
Located on one of the last open parcels of lakeshore on Deep Creek Lake, Silver Tree Suites boasts unobstructed views of the lake and shoreline as well as a variety of impeccably kept outdoor spaces including outdoor fireplaces, fire-pit, beautiful decks and patios, all within easy walking distance to the Silver Tree Marina, and the historic Silver Tree Inn.
The historical precedent set by the Silver Tree Inn (independent restaurant connected to Silver Tree Suites) forms the cornerstone of the architectural design. The Inn, dating to just after World War II, was originally used as a lodge and later purchased and operated by the Lascaris family for over 27 years as one of the finest restaurants in the area.
Silver Tree Suites draws on many architectural icons from the historic Inn including use of heavy timber, and indigenous stone The lobby areas also incorporate dramatic use of timber trusses and opposing fireplaces similar to the original Inns dining room, attempting to reinterpret the original lodge feeling.
Special Features
2 buildings comprised of 50 total units – (Building A = 40 and Building B = 10)
Studio Hotel Suites
One Bedroom Hotel Suites
Studio Hotel Suites with Loft
One Bedroom Hotel Suites with Loft
Lake Views or Standard Units.
Most units each have an exterior deck. All units each have a gas fireplace & living room.
Located next door to Silver Tree Inn Restaurant & Silver Tree Marina.
Close proximity to virtually all Deep Creek Lake activities & Deep Creek Lake State Park.
A fitness center will have a Sauna and equipment to keep you trim and fit while on vacation.
The exterior deck will feature views of Deep Creek Lake State Park and Adirondack chairs to saok up the sun. A sun deck, covered porch and outdoor fireplace complete the picture.
A coffee shop with a sundries shop is
located lakeside right by the lakeside fireplace area.
The reading loft offers a great place to curl up with your favorite book
whether it be a day when snowflakes gently fall from the skies, or when
the leaves turn their golden colors in the fall. Designed to be a quiet
recluse for owners and guests enjoyment.
Located on one of the most prime lakefront on Deep Creek Lake, Silver Tree Suites boasts of unobstructed views of the lake, shoreline and surrounding Maryland mountains.
Level grounds, a luxury in lakefront properties, is inherent to this parcel.
Contact
567 Glendale Road
Oakland, MD 21550
(301) 387-0650
*information is believed to be accurate but is not guaranteed.
If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350
Garrett Petminders - Deep Creek Lake & Garrett County
Jay Clark: 301.334.2950
Kathleen Gibbs: 301.334.0674
*We request that this interview take place at least 48 hours before first pet-sitting visit.*
Daily Pet Sitting: $25.00 UP TO 2 PETS. Includes up to 4 visits per day of at least ½ hour duration. $5.00 per pet for each additional pet per day. Pet visitations include water change & feeding as directed, plus play and/or walking. For cats and small mammals, we clean cages & litter boxes and other areas as specified, change water & food, play or companion if desired. Visits may be arranged according to the owner’s desires. Earliest daily visit not earlier than 7AM – last visit at night not later than 10 PM.
Medication – $5.00 per day – any/all oral meds per pet
Pet Taxi during Sitting – $10.00 per trip + mileage
* Emergency Visitation (less than 24 hr. notice): $10.00 over reg. charge
Holiday Visits: Christmas Eve/Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve/New Years Day, Easter Sunday, Memorial Day, July 4, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and all other Federal Holidays:+ $10 over reg. charge
Other Services:
Pet Taxi (to Vet, Groomer or other): $30.00/hr.
Includes any portion thereof
(plus mileage if applicable)
Dog Walking: $20.00 per first ½ hour
$10.00 each add’l. ½ hr.
*Also included: light pet grooming/brushing, light house sitting (change lights, get mail, take out trash, water plants, other light chores as agreed). Clients north of Accident, MD or out of state agree to pay a mileage charge of $0.45/mi. We keep a journal for each pet each time we visit. This is your record of your pet’s activities during your absence and should be kept for re-use the next time we visit your pet(s)!
If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350
