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MD DNR To Hold Public Hearing on Swallow Falls Bridge Replacement

Garrett County, with the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration, is proposing to replace Bridge No. G-0020 on Swallow Falls Road over the Youghiogheny River; a State designated Scenic and Wild River.

The proposed bridge will be designed to meet Federal Highway Administration standards and will include two 10’ wide travel lanes, two 5’ wide bicycle lanes, and a 5’ wide sidewalk for a total width of approximately 35’.

This project involves impacts to the Scenic and Wild River Corridor; therefore, the Department of Natural Resources must approve an exception to the protective regulations to allow construction to move forward.

As part of the exception process, the Department is conducting a public hearing on Monday, July 10, 2023, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM in Room 111 of the GEIC Building (Garrett Information and Enterprise Center) at Garrett County Community College, 687 Mosser Road, McHenry, MD 21541.

A copy of the Garrett County application can be reviewed here:  https://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Documents/Swallow-Falls/Scenic-and-Wild-Rivers-Development-Application-signed.pdf

The Environmental Assessment can be reviewed here: https://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Documents/Swallow-Falls/Swallow-Falls-Scenic-and-Wild-River-Environmental-Assessment-Final-06-16-23.pdf

Written and oral testimony will be accepted by Maryland Department of Natural Resources at the public hearing and via email (swallowfallsbridge.dnr@maryland.gov) or U.S. mail (Maryland Park Service – Planning, 580 Taylor Avenue, E-3, Annapolis, MD 21401).

​If you have questions regarding the application or arrangements for the public hearing, please call (410) 260-8161.

Little Yough Summer Music Festival

The Town of Oakland, MD is excited to announce the much-anticipated return of the Little Yough Summer Music Festival (LYSMF) concert series. Celebrating its 26th year, this beloved summer event showcases talented local and regional singers, songwriters, and performers. Held at the picturesque Mountain Fresh Pavilion in the heart of Oakland’s Arts & Entertainment District, the LYSMF offers free, family-friendly concerts that are sure to delight music enthusiasts of all ages. In this article, we’ll explore the details of this year’s concert series and highlight the talented artists scheduled to perform.

The Little Yough Summer Music Festival will take place every Friday evening from July 7 to September 1 at the Mountain Fresh Pavilion, located in the Oakland Town Parking Lot. The concert series offers a break in the schedule on Friday, August 4. The festivities kick off with food vendor D’s Eats opening at 6:00 PM, allowing attendees to grab a bite before the performances begin at 7:00 PM. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor to the area, this event promises an enjoyable evening filled with fantastic music in a vibrant community atmosphere.

The 2023 Lineup: This year’s concert series features a diverse lineup of talented performers who will showcase their musical prowess and entertain the audience with their unique styles. Here are the artists scheduled to take the stage at the Little Yough Summer Music Festival:

  1. July 7 – The Jenny Wilson Trio
  2. July 14 – The Steve Smith Band
  3. July 21 – The Terah Crawford Band
  4. July 28 – The Wally Gingers Orchestra
  5. August 11 – To be announced (TBD)
  6. August 18 – Smoke Wagon
  7. August 25 – Crandall Creek
  8. September 1 – The Remedy

With a diverse range of musical genres, including jazz, country, rock, and more, this year’s lineup promises to cater to a variety of musical tastes. Each performance offers an opportunity to discover new talent and enjoy the vibrant music scene thriving in the Oakland c

Fire on the Mountain: Celebrating the 4th of July at Deep Creek Lake

Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, comes alive with excitement and patriotic fervor each year on the 4th of July. As fireworks burst in the night sky, illuminating the surrounding mountains, the annual “Fire on the Mountain” celebration creates a magical atmosphere that draws visitors and locals alike. Join us as we explore the festivities, traditions, and unforgettable experiences of Independence Day at Deep Creek Lake. The display is set to begin around 9:30 pm and is set off from the tubing hill at the Mountain Park. 

Finding the perfect spot to watch the Fire on the Mountain fireworks at Deep Creek Lake can enhance your experience and provide the best views. Here are some recommended locations to enjoy the fireworks display:

  • Scenic overlook along Rt. 219
  • Wisp Resort
  • Lawn at Garrett College
  • Boat on Deep Creek Lake, particularly McHenry Cove
  • Local Businesses in McHenry

Wisp Resort hosts a free Stage Wisp concert before the Fireworks display. Enjoy FREE live music from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm under the saddle tent on the front lawn at Wisp – don’t forget your blanket and lawn chairs! Hot eats and cool drinks will be available for purchase on the outdoor deck.

Garrett County Gran Fondo set for Saturday, June 17

MCHENRY — Cyclists are getting 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 fundraiser is scheduled for Saturday, June 17, and is presented by Garrett Trails Non-Profit.

“Everyone from casual cyclists to experienced athletes will participate in a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with ride lengths varying from 25-125 miles,” said Josh Spiker, Executive Director of Garrett Trails. “From the stunning views of the mountains to the small-town culture at each stop, riders will get to experience all that Garrett County has to offer.”

The participation of hundreds of cyclists supports local trail initiatives led by Garrett Trails, including advocating for more trails that serve people of all abilities, equal access to public land and connecting communities with hiking and biking paths.

Spiker noted that these challenging routes will take riders through some of the most picturesque spots in the county. Along the way, riders will experience crossing the Youghiogheny River twice, full-service aid stations located in small towns from Friendsville to Barton, and seven timed climbs that will challenge even the most fit athletes.

The timed climbs include some familiar to local residents, including Bowman Hill, Dry Run Road from Savage River Reservoir and Michaels Road climbing for over four miles from Barton.

“We are excited to offer this unique opportunity for cyclists to explore and experience what makes Garrett County so special,” Spiker said. “The Gran Fondo is not only an intense physical challenge but also a great way to explore our beautiful home.”

Riders are reminded that the fundraiser is not an overall race, and to observe all traffic laws.

“We’re grateful for the many people that chose to support us by registering for the GCGF,” Spiker said. “We want everyone to have a great ride and get home safe, and we have all the routes posted at www.garrettcountygranfondo.org. It’s a good resource for drivers to see where they may encounter groups of cyclists this Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.”

for more information Garrett County Gran Fondo set for Saturday, June 17 | Garrett News | wvnews.com

Deep Creek Lake Lions Club 10th Annual Boat Parade, July 1st

The Deep Creek Lions Club 10th Annual Boat Parade will start from the boat launching ramp at Silvertree Marine in McHenry cove and will proceed in single file past a number of judging stations along the route to Dutch’s Restaurant at Silvertree. Spectators at the judging stations will vote for their favorite boats. Entrants in the parade will need to pay a MINIMUM $50 registration fee, and the number of entries are limited, so be sure to pre-register to ensure your spot. Prizes this year are limited to the custom flag and trophy. All the funds raised benefit our Blind Skier and Camper Programs and our McHenry Community Park. Non-profit organizations can enter a boat for FREE and can keep all the money they raise! You can start fundraising for your boat right away! Enter your boat here: Entry Form Online Then have your supporters “vote” for your boat number with donations to the club! Here’s how to vote below:

How to VOTE:

Vote with CASH: On shore or on the docks: Our Lions Club robo-boat will follow the parade, and we can collect your donations dockside! OR Vote Online: Venmo, Credit Card, Paypal and the Mailing address for checks

**Be sure to put in the payment notes the boat number you are voting for!

for more information Boat Parade – Deep Creek Lake Lions Club (deepcreeklions.org)

Deep Creek Village Team Tour

The May 23, 2023, Team Tour Tuesday took us to Deep Creek Village. As your local real estate team, we pride ourselves on our in-depth knowledge of the area, but this experience allowed us to deepen our understanding even further. Expanding our knowledge of the community means we can offer even more valuable insights and personalized guidance to clients.

Here are just a few things we love about Deep Creek Village.

Our agents noted many of the nuances and unique features that make this neighborhood truly special:

  • We were in luck as the vibrant purple rhododendrons surrounding the townhomes were in full bloom! Well-maintained, mature landscaping is just one of the many highlights.
  • Proximity to Wisp Resort is ideal for enjoying winter recreation, mountain park activities, golf at Fantasy Valley, the summer concert series, and beautiful sunsets over the mountain.
  • Everything in McHenry is within easy reach. Deep Creek Village is the epitome of a convenient location making it ideal for second homeowners and vacation rental guests.
  • As we toured one of the active listings, we noted the newly stained decks and freshly painted exteriors on many of the buildings.
  • The terraced stairs to the kayak rack and dock were in great shape and made it easy to get to the water.
  • With docks in a no wake zone, the cove is peaceful and a great place for birdwatching.
  • One of our photographers noted the vibrant fall foliage in the cove and beautiful reflections.

Commissioners Public Meeting Scheduled in Bloomington

Continuing efforts to offer an accessible and transparent local government, the Garrett County Commissioners are planning a series of public meetings off-site and throughout Garrett County.

This approach showcases the Commissioners’ steadfast commitment to actively engage with residents and ensure that every voice is heard regardless of geographical location.

The first 2023 off-site public meeting is scheduled for June 20 at the Bloomington Volunteer Fire Department located at 77 N Branch Ave, Bloomington, MD 21523.

“We want to continue to think a little outside of the box, so to speak, so we can reach and interact with as many constituents as possible,” said Commissioner Ryan Savage. “We’re looking forward to our next meeting to be held off-site in Bloomington as well as scheduled for a little later in the evening to invite increased participation. Taking our public meetings off-site and county-wide allows us to meet residents where they are, listen to their perspectives, and work together to build a thriving community.”

By holding meetings in the community, and beyond the Courthouse, the Commissioners seek to provide opportunities for individuals throughout Garrett County to actively participate in discussions that shape their shared future.

In addition to this geographical expansion, the commissioners have embraced technological advancements to enhance public viewership of these meetings. Each public meeting is streamed on Facebook to communicate with residents who may face constraints in attending public meetings in person.

To view the June 20 public meeting agenda, please visit this link. Note, to schedule an in issue to be presented to the Board of Garrett County Commissioners, please contact Carol A. Riley–Alexander at 301-334-8970 or via email at criley@garrettcounty.org.

Little Yough Family Flick events in Oakland

Oakland’s Little Yough Family Flicks summer movie series in the Oakland A&E District will return on June 15th with the 2022 film, “Thor: Love and Thunder”, sponsored by Healy Insurance Group, Inc.
The Little Yough Family Flicks is a rebranding of the formerly known Oakland Pocket Park Movies. The name has changed but the fun, family evenings will remain the same. Guests are welcome to bring chairs, blankets, food, and non-alcoholic beverages and enjoy the flicks on the big 24’ screen.
The family-friendly, free movies are held at the Mountain Fresh Pavilion in the Oakland Town Parking Lot every Thursday evening from June 15th to August 17th, except for Thursday July 6th and Thursday, August 3rd, 2023. There is a change to the start time of the movies this year. The movies will begin at 7pm and are shown rain or shine. This year’s movie schedule is packed with blockbuster hits

Garrett County History- Loch Lynn Hotel

Loch Lynn Hotel at Mountain Lake Park, Oakland, Maryland. Built in 1894, opened in June, 1895. Features of the hotel: Maple flooring, elegant ballroom, billiard room, rotundas, parlors, dining rooms–all these on the first floor. Laundry engine at the back of the hotel forced water from the well into a large reservoir fifty feet high for the hotel and surrounding cottages. Occupied an elevated site giving a fine view of Mountain Lake Park. 100 chambers plus apartments for a modern first class hotel. The lake supplies ice for the hotel and town. A large ice house was built to store the ice for home use and for sale.
On September 19, 1918 a fire totally destroyed the hotel. Fortunately, there was no loss of life. Only the hotel owner and her daughter were there and escaped unharmed. The hotel had just finished it’s summer season and was empty of guests. 

photo and more information via Facebook

Deep Creek Day Trip: Thomas WV

Thomas, WV, beckons visitors with its natural beauty, artistic flair, and rich history. If you’re planning a day trip to this charming town, get ready to embark on a memorable adventure. From outdoor escapades to cultural experiences, Thomas has something to offer everyone. Let’s explore the exciting things to do in this vibrant destination.

  1. Blackwater Falls State Park: Kickstart your day with a visit to Blackwater Falls State Park, a scenic wonderland just a short drive from Thomas. Marvel at the majestic Blackwater Falls, where amber-colored water cascades over ancient rocks. Take a leisurely hike along the park’s well-maintained trails, immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature. For a bird’s-eye view, head to the park’s observation tower and capture breathtaking panoramic vistas.
  2. Thomas City Park: Discover the natural beauty and recreational opportunities at Thomas City Park. This community park offers walking trails, picnic spots, and a playground, making it an ideal spot for a family outing. Take a leisurely stroll, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and enjoy the serene surroundings. The park also hosts events and festivals throughout the year, so check the schedule to see if any exciting activities are taking place during your visit.
  3. Art Galleries: Thomas boasts a vibrant arts scene, and exploring the local galleries is a must. Wander down Front Street, where you’ll find an array of art galleries showcasing the works of talented local artists. Immerse yourself in a world of creativity as you admire unique paintings, sculptures, and crafts that capture the spirit of Tucker County. Don’t forget to support the artists by purchasing a one-of-a-kind piece to take home as a cherished memento.
  4. Purple Fiddle: A trip to Thomas wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the renowned Purple Fiddle. This eclectic music venue and café features live performances by local and regional musicians. Grab a cup of locally roasted coffee, indulge in a tasty treat, and let the soulful melodies enchant you. The cozy atmosphere and intimate setting make for an unforgettable musical experience.
  5. Historical Exploration: Delve into Thomas’ rich history by visiting the Thomas Depot and Heritage Center. Learn about the town’s coal mining heritage through engaging exhibits, artifacts, and personal stories that provide insight into the challenges and triumphs of the local community. Gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s past and the role Thomas played in shaping it.

A day trip to Thomas, WV, in Tucker County is a delightful experience, offering a perfect blend of natural wonders, artistic inspiration, and a glimpse into the town’s history. From the breathtaking Blackwater Falls State Park to the vibrant art scene and immersive historical attractions, Thomas has something to captivate every visitor. So, plan your excursion, embrace the charm of this unique town, and create lasting memories in the heart of Tucker County.