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Edwards Fund issues $13.2 million in grants for Allegany, Garrett projects

Representatives for the Sen. George C. Edwards Fund announced Tuesday that 13 economic development projects in Allegany County and six in Garrett County have been awarded nearly $13.2 million in grant funding.

The Sen. George C. Edwards Fund was allocated $50 million by the state of Maryland last year to be distributed in Allegany, Garrett and Washington counties over the next five years to create jobs and stimulate the economy in Western Maryland.

Projects selected for funding in Allegany County include $1.5 million for the conversion of the former Memorial Hospital site in South Cumberland to a housing complex. Also included is $1 million each for improvements to Vocke Road and for an expansion of Western Maryland Lemonade located in downtown Cumberland.

Managed by the 11-member Western Maryland Economic Future Investment Board, the Fund received 100 applications. Each board member reviewed all the applications, and the county commissioners from each county ranked the projects within their jurisdictions. The ranked projects were presented to the board, which had the final vote.

“I am very happy to see this fund support so many strong projects, which will have a tremendous impact on our communities,” said Edwards in a press release. “These investments in Western Maryland will create jobs and help attract new businesses, supporting and inspiring economic growth for years to come.”

Other projects selected for funding in Allegany County include 1812 Brewery, $750,000; Rosenbaum Building redevelopment downtown, $500,000; Wills Hotel development, $500,000; former Allegany High School site improvements for future housing, $422,000; Liang Property development near UPMC Western Maryland, $250,000; Pharmacare expansion, $223,000; Queen City Creamery, $200,000; Rainmaker Music expansion downtown, $140,000; Allegany College of Maryland, $100,000; and Reptilian Arts expansion, $15,000.

According to the press release, the total impact value of the funded projects is $178.5 million, which is leveraged by $20 million from the fund. The projects are expected to create over 600 direct, permanent jobs, not including temporary construction jobs or indirect job creation. Grant agreements have been signed with the awardees, and the Tri-County Council for Western Maryland is coordinating the distribution of funds.

In Garrett County, projects selected for funding include $1.5 million for expansion of the Beitzel Corporation’s headquarters in Grantsville, where the company will construct a new field crew and fleet training and maintenance center.

Other projects to receive funds include $1.5 million for Simon Pierce Manufacturing; $1.3 million for improvements at the Corsa Coal North Mine; Garrett County government for $1.2 million for future housing; $600,000 for a MEDCO spec building; and $500,000 for improvements at the Keyser’s Ridge Business Park.

Andrew Sargent, from the Maryland Department of Commerce, said, “The Economic Future Investment Board worked hard to review all the applications and identify the projects that would have the greatest impact on the region. We are excited to see these projects progress and are proud to have played a role in their success.”

Allegany, Garrett and Washington counties received $6.6 million each for projects. Washington County has six projects, including $1.52 million for a new Meritus school of osteopathic medicine.

article by Greg Larry at the Cumberland Times-News. To reach him, call 304-639-4951, email glarry@times-news.com and follow him on Twitter @GregLarryCTN.

Deep Creek Lake could have been part of the C&O canal

Garrett County’s biggest tourist attraction could have looked very different if the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal had continued past Cumberland. Deep Creek Lake was created from building a dam and allowing a dozen creeks and streams, including the creek that gives Deep Creek Lake its name, to fill the valley.

In 1824, as the holdings of George Washington’s Patowmack Company were ceded to the new Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Company, which had yet to break ground. The canal’s route was still in question. The goal was to reach the Ohio River, which would allow canal boats to travel to the Mississippi River.

The largest challenge to this goal were the Allegheny Mountains. To reach Cumberland required raising a canal boat about 800 feet over 185 miles from Georgetown. To reach McHenry from Cumberland would require raising a boat about 1,900 feet over 45 miles, a greater challenge.

In 1824, four years before the C&O Canal broke ground, U.S. Secretary of War John Calhoun and Col. Isaac Roberdeau, who had assisted Charles L’Enfant in laying out Washington D.C., set out to map a route for the canal.

They left Cumberland on August 26, 1824, traveling the National Road and staying in taverns along the way. They wrote of seeing well-timbered land and beautiful farms along the route, but they eventually left the road and headed south, stopping at the farm of the John McHenry at Buffalo Marsh.

“This party is now engaged in surveying the head waters of Deep Creek and other branches of the Youghiogheny, and will proceed down that river to Monongahela, and thence to Pittsburg, which they expect to reach by the first of December,” the Maryland Republican reported on Sept. 9, 1824.

The McHenry family welcomed the surveying part with “that sort of Highland welcome which does a heart good,” according to the Maryland Republican.

Not far from the farm was the summit level of the canal. According to The Glades Star, it was marked on a pier of the old wooden Deep Creek bridge where present-day Route 219 crosses Deep Creek. The summit level indicated “the high water mark of the storage dam to provide water for lifting and lowering the canal boats thru the locks.”

It was proposed that a 21-foot dam on the Little Youghiogheny and a 35-foot dam on the Big Youghiogheny would be needed to provide enough water for a canal to operate through present-day Garrett County.

“And Deep Creek that now moves along unseen and but little known shall become famous as the stream of Washington, for its waters will mingle with those of the Potomac and pass the shades of Mt. Vernon where he who first formed the grand design of uniting the waters of the West and the East… now rests in peace. From this summit level the waters of Deep Creek shall find a sea on either side. Flowing westward it will pass the spot (by way of the Ohio and Mississippi) where Jackson saved his country and gained immortal fame. About two miles from the summit level, the surveying group found,” the Maryland Advocate opined.

The newspaper also noted that it believed Calhoun had been sold on the idea and that it should commence.

Although the C&O Canal did break ground on July 4, 1828, it never reached present-day Deep Creek Lake, stopping at Cumberland.

for original story Looking Back: Deep Creek Lake could have been part of C&O Canal | News | times-news.com

The Best Things to Do in Deep Creek Lake, Maryland

Deep Creek Lake State Park is an idyllic spot to launch a boat. Wisp Resort operates a rental kiosk on the park’s public beach for kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and beach chairs.

Want to take paddling to the next level? Wisp has a 1,700-foot recirculating whitewater course on the top of the mountain, for gentler rapids than some on the nearby Youghiogheny River. Guides help rafts and kayaks maneuver the rock-lined loop. You can ride the ski chairlift to get to the course, taking in mountain and lake views.

Drop the paddle and start a motor at Lake Life Rentals in McHenry. The outfitter issues temporary boating licenses so you can steer pontoons with cushioned seats and a canopy for sun coverage. (Seafaring dogs are allowed.) For an additional fee, rent tubes to strap on the back of the boat.

The placid water makes the lake an ideal spot to learn how to waterski and wakeboard. Book a session with Rouse Water Sports, departing from the Deep Creek Marina Club. Greg Rouse, a waterski instructor with more than 30 years’ experience, uses a training boom—a bar that extends from the boat onto the water—for a beginner-friendly lesson. Start with waterskis, or if you’re more advanced, try barefoot skiing.

Beyond the lake, there are hikes that take you by local waterways. To learn more about the area’s ecology, reserve a spot on a river walk led by All Earth Eco Tours. Stroll along the Youghiogheny River while a guide points out plants and animals. After a mile walk upstream, the tour stops at a swimming hole for downtime in the water.

Stop at Firefly Farms Market to stock up on Maryland-made cheese, cured meats, and crackers. At the cafe, the farm’s cow’s- and goat’s-milk cheeses are folded into cheffy sandwiches. West Virginia’s Mountain State Brewing Company has an outpost in McHenry for pub fare, flatbread pizzas, and cold beers. The back patio often hosts live music in summer. For a sweet treat by the water, grab a cone from Lakeside Creamery or, to customize your confection, pick a glaze and toppings at Deep Creek Donuts.

for more The Best Things to Do in Deep Creek Lake, Maryland (washingtonian.com)

Throwback Thursday- Will O’ The Wisp

Will O’ The Wisp on Rt. 219, on Deep Creek Lake, Oakland, opened in late 1961 or early 1962. Mr. and Mrs. Helmuth Heise were the hosts.

The Four Seasons Dining Room had a grand opening on Saturday, May 26th 1962 at 3pm, at which time a beautiful 5′ by 9′ oil painting “Four Seasons” by artist Mr. Aza Stanton was unveiled. Charles Apostolou was the Chef.

Helmut died at age 82 in August, 2009. His nickname was “Ace.” He started ski area operations in 1955 in the Deep Creek Lake Area. Wisp Ski Resort was located on 3,080 foot Marsh Mountain. It had 23 slopes and trails totaling 14 miles. He sold his financial interest in Wisp Resort in 2001 yet remained as part of the management team. for more information visit (1) Western Maryland Historic | Facebook

Bobcat Academy gives students immersive college experience

Frostburg State University will be hosting students from both Allegany and Garrett Counties in a Dual Enrollment Pilot program next fall. The Bobcat Academy will give students an immersive college experience and an opportunity to earn college credits while completing their senior year of high school. Dr. Kim Green-Kalbaugh, Chief Academic Officer for Allegany County, spoke about the academy at this month’s school board meeting. Garrett County schools will have open house events on May 19th and 30th for students and parents interested in the Bobcat Academy.

for more information Bobcat Academy gives students immersive college experience | WCBC (wcbcradio.com)

Throwback to Deer Park Hotel

One of our most notable landmarks is the historic Deer Park Hotel, which was established in 1889. The hotel was a popular vacation resort and played host to several U.S. presidents and other dignitaries over the years The hotel caught fire in 1944, resulting in significant damage and leaving only a small portion of the building salvageable. This remaining section is now known as The Deer Park Inn and Restaurant while it’s legacy lives on in the Garrett County Historical Society Museums.

As you explore the natural beauty of Garrett County, take a moment to imagine what life was like for the guests who stayed at the Deer Park Hotel over a century ago.

more information Garrett County Mountain Maryland Gateway to the West Heritage Area | McHenry MD | Facebook

Garrett County Celtic Festival

Looking for an inspiring day on the Celtic Way for the entire family? The 35^th Garrett County Celtic Festival welcomes you to the beautiful highlands of Appalachian Maryland. Already filled with living history, clan representation, field exhibits, and Chautauqua style presentations about the Scots, Irish, and Welsh in Western Maryland, the Festival hosts the Highland Games, pipes and drums, 4 stages of musicians and dancers, and features whole family entertainment with all-day activities for all ages. NEW this year are arts workshops for adults: actual weaving along with the history of the Pittsburgh Tartan, Celtic design metal art in copper and silver, wheat weaving and mixed media designs in Celtic traditions, and traditions in quilting. For more information Jun 3 | Garrett County Celtic Festival | Pittsburgh, PA Patch

Garrett County Gran Fondo – Ride Through the Scenic Wonders of Mountain Maryland

Get ready for a wild ride through the scenic wonders of the Deep Creek Lake area and mountain Maryland. The 12th annual Garrett County Gran Fondo is now accepting registrations and is proudly presented by the Garrett Trails Organization

MCHENRY, MD, May 05, 2023 /24-7PressRelease/ — Whether you’re a casual cyclist or an experienced athlete, this challenging ride is guaranteed to offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From the stunning views of the mountains to the vibrant culture at each stop, riders will get to experience all that mountain Maryland has to offer. Not only that, riders can rest assured knowing that their efforts will be put to good use in supporting local trail initiatives led by the Garrett Trails Organization.

Garrett County, Maryland is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and unique outdoor experiences. On Saturday, June 17th, 2023, cyclists from all over the country will have a chance to take in the beauty and majesty of this region with the Garrett County Gran Fondo cycling event.

This challenging ride will take riders on a 25 -125-mile route through some of the most picturesque spots in mountain Maryland. Along the way, riders will get to experience some of Garrett County’s best attractions such as Deep Creek Lake and the scenic Youghiogheny River.

photo via Garrett County Gran Fondo – Ride Through the Scenic Wonders of Mountain Maryland (digitaljournal.com)

About Maryland Homestead Property Tax Credit

The Homestead Property Tax Credit is a statutory limit on the amount an assessment increase may affect a taxpayer’s tax burden. This is important for owner-occupied dwellings as a provision of a property tax credit against large assessment increases that functions much the same as a cap.

In an effort to help reduce the tax burden for full-time Garrett County residents, The Board of Garrett County Commissioners proposes to lower this rate. This could cap the increased taxable assessment at 3% per year.

Any residents with Garrett County declared as a primary residence can submit the Homestead application. Due to the state’s process, the limitation reduction would be applied in Fiscal Year 2025.

Homestead Property Tax Credit applications are found at https://sdathtc.dat.maryland.gov/.

Homestead Property Tax Credit History

Since 1977, State law provided that owner-occupied dwellings were not taxed on annual assessment increases that exceed 15%.

During the 1990 and 1991 Sessions of the General Assembly, significant changes were made to the Homestead Property Tax Credit Program. For the first time, the credit was applied to the State property tax to limit taxable assessment increases for homeowners to 10% annually. Additionally, each county was mandated to adopt a local ordinance or resolution specifying a local percentage of 0% to 10% for purposes of local property taxation.

Homestead Property Tax Credit Implementation

The Homestead Credit percentage selected by each county is expressed as a percentage increase from the prior year’s assessment. If a municipality disagrees with the Homestead Credit Percentage specified by its county, municipal officials may set their own limit between 0% and 10%. If a municipality takes no action, then the county percentage will apply to assessments used to compute municipal taxes.

Local percentages (county and municipal) remain in effect until changed by local action. County governments may, in the future, change their Homestead Credit percentage, but must do so by November 15th preceding the year of the proposed change. Municipalities may change the percentage before November 25th of the preceding year.

If you have questions or comments on the constant yield tax rate, please email gccomments@garrettcounty.org until June 5.

for more information About Maryland Homestead Property Tax Credit – Communications Office – Garrett County Government

May the 4th be with you

The unofficial holiday originated from a catchphrase from George Lucas’ first film of the space franchise, “Star Wars: A New Hope,” which was released in 1977. In the film, General Dodonna utters the phrase to the rebel alliance as they prepare for their assault on the Death Star.

“Then man your ships! And may the Force be with you!” Fans celebrate Star Wars Day on ‘May the 4th’ because it sounds similar to the classic catchphrase, “May the force be with you.”

learn more about the holiday here- star wars day 2023 – Search (bing.com)

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