The Maryland Department of Natural Resources reminds residents that black bears are beginning a period of increased feeding activity in preparation for winter hibernation. As the leaves change and the weather cools, bears become more active as they search for food.
During this time, bears will travel across roads more frequently. They also can become more attracted to human-provided food sources and lose their natural fear of people, which can be dangerous for both people and bears.
Residents and visitors should note that keeping bird feeders, pet food and trash in a place where bears can’t get to them is the best way to avoid problems. Marylanders should also delay filling songbird feeders until the winter months to avoid attracting bears.
Melissa Nash, Forester in Garrett and Allegany counties, reports, “I think we are still on track to peak at the end of this week, but I don’t think it’s going to result in dramatic color this year. We are still seeing more yellow and gold tones as opposed to vibrant oranges and reds. I do anticipate the cool temperatures (lows in the 30s/40s) will help transition some of the trees that are still green.”
A burst of amber fills the sky in Eastern Garrett County’s Finzel area. Photo by Melissa Nash.
Recent wind and rain results in a carpet of fall leaves on the forest floor in eastern Garrett County. Photo by Melissa Nash.
Sean Nolan, Forest Manager, at Savage River State Forest sees progress among the leaves in Northern Garrett County. “We’ve seen quite a change this week,” Nolan said. “The higher elevation areas are nearing peak, but recent rain and wind have brought many leaves down. The sugar and red maples are showing good colors, but the oaks are still very green.”
Gorgeous shades of orange and gold line the Bowman Hill and Keyser’s Ridge areas of Savage River State Forest. Photo by Wyatt Orner, Natural Resources Technician.
“The recent cold temperatures along with the rainy and windy conditions have coaxed a substantial number of leaves from the canopy, especially among red maples and sugar maples, with some trees already devoid of foliage. The black birch, sassafras, and black gum are displaying a wide spectrum of colors on Piney Mountain,” reports Scott Campbell, Forest Manager at Potomac-Garrett State Forest.
The fall transition is moving a little more slowly in Frederick where Bob Study, Park Ranger Supervisor, is seeing “mostly green with hints of gold and crimson just starting to peek through the treetops” at Fort Frederick State Park.
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.
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
4:10 Proclamation: Economic Development Week – October 23 – 27, 2023
4:15 Garrett County Department of Financial Services – Purchasing Division
Bid #23–0928 – Garrett County Airport Terminal Roof Project
4:20 Public Commentary
4:25 PUBLIC HEARING: HUD Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Public Hearing – Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Housing (PRO Housing) Opportunity
ADJOURNMENT
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 Tuesday, November 6, 2023 at the Garrett County Courthouse beginning at 4:00 PM.
Douglas “Doug” McClive passed in peace surrounded by his family on Oct.19, 2023 in Windsor, Calif.
Born on Jan. 8, 1950 in Buffalo, N.Y., Doug took the “quality of life” plunge back in 1974 and moved full time to Garrett County to assume the position as chef at the Four Season’s Restaurant, Will O the Wisp and later at Silver Tree Restaurant.
With 34 years in the restaurant business, Doug, Rebecca McClive, and business partner Debra Savage established McClive’s Restaurant on Deep Creek Drive in 1987. Doug and his family operated the locally celebrated restaurant until 2001.
Doug carried his love of Deep Creek Lake and all of Garrett County forward (2002-2023), along with his professional partner Ed King, to Long & Foster Real Estate, now Taylor-Made Deep Creek Vacations & Sales. He was an Accredited Buyer Representative (ABR) and member of MAR & NAR and was a six-year officer of the Garrett County Board of Realtors. His resort property niche and professional resources placed him among Deep Creek’s top producers every year.
Elected 2009 and 2014 REALTOR® of the Year by the Garrett County Board of REALTORS, he was named Top Producer, and a Long & Foster Gold Team member.
He was active in many local charities, including Deep Creek Lions Club, providing leadership as Membership Chair in 2013-2014 and participating in frequent fundraising events such as Casino Night and the Blind Skiing program at Wisp Resort, offering his world famous “Dougy Dog’s” barbecue at the Soap Box Derby.
The Civic Club is proud to announce its 49th Antique & Makers Market, an annual event that has become a cherished tradition during the Autumn Glory Festival. This unique market offers a delightful blend of antique treasures and handmade creations, making it a standout in the festival’s lineup of attractions. Not only does the market provide visitors with an opportunity to discover exceptional items, but it also serves as a vital fundraiser for local nonprofit organizations. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what makes this event so special and how it positively impacts the community.
A History of Giving Back
For nearly half a century, the Civic Club has been hosting the Antique & Makers Market as a means to support local nonprofit organizations. Jean Tumbarello, the event chair and Club treasurer, expresses the significance of this event, saying, “Every person who comes to the Market is helping to make a difference in the lives of so many people.” While craft shows abound during the Autumn Glory weekend, this market stands out by offering items that boast a history as rich as the Civic Club itself.
The Antique & Makers Market features an impressive array of offerings, including antique and vintage items, as well as crafts from skilled artisans. Visitors can browse through booths showcasing blacksmithing, quilting, basket making, knitting, furniture crafting, and much more. It’s a testament to the diverse talents present within the community.
Beyond the fascinating market, the Civic Club Café provides a culinary experience that is equally memorable. Visitors can savor homemade soups, chili, sloppy joes, and an array of baked goods. What sets this café apart is not just its delicious offerings but also its commitment to community support. Every purchase made at the café contributes to the betterment of the community.
This year, the Civic Club Café introduces Chicken Matzo Ball soup due to popular demand. Additionally, a limited number of quarts of soup will be available. For those with dietary preferences and restrictions, there will be gluten-free and vegetarian options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a satisfying meal.
Mary Alice Simpson, Café Coordinator, emphasizes the importance of teamwork, noting that club members, their husbands, and even visiting family members come together to volunteer their time to make the event a success. It’s a testament to the strong sense of community spirit that permeates the Civic Club.
A highlight of the market is the ‘Winners Choice’ raffle, now in its second year. Raffle ticket holders will have the chance to choose between a $500 cash prize, a basket filled with gift cards and items donated by local businesses, or a beautifully crafted full/queen size quilt. The quilt, known as “Chandelier,” is made from donated fabric scraps and has garnered considerable attention and admiration.
A Heartfelt Thank You to Sponsors
The Civic Club extends its gratitude to the generous sponsors who make this event possible. Their support allows the club to donate a significant portion of the proceeds back to the community. Platinum sponsors include Green Acres Garden Center and Garrett Regional Medical Center, followed by Gold sponsors Land Design LLC and Don Nemith Builders. Silver sponsors are Gary Ruddell & Total Biz Fulfillment and Boal and Associates, while Bronze sponsors include A New Way of Life Coaching, First United Bank, Karen Lauer & Frank Shap. The club also acknowledges its Friends, including Busy Bee Flea Market, Garrett Automotive, and Dave Jochynek of State Farm Insurance. In addition to these sponsors, the club received a mini grant from the Maryland Heritage Area and Western Maryland Gateway to the West for marketing expenses, allowing them to reach a broader audience and enhance their marketing efforts.
Event Details
The Antique & Makers Market will take place on Friday, October 13, and Saturday, October 14, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Oakland Community Center, located at 14 N 8th Street in Oakland. Admission is a $2 donation for individuals aged 12 and above, which covers both days of the event.
The Civic Club’s 49th Antique & Makers Market is a testament to the power of community, history, and giving back. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to discover treasures and support local nonprofit organizations while enjoying a delightful culinary experience. The club’s dedication to making a positive impact on the community and the support of generous sponsors ensures that this event remains a cherished tradition during the Autumn Glory Festival. Don’t miss the chance to be a part of this heartwarming celebration of history and community. For more information, visit the Civic Club website at www.civicclubofoaklandmd.com or email gfwc.oakland@yahoo.com.
Location: Dutch’s on Glendale Road, Deep Creek Lake
The Mountain Laurel Garden Club invites you to join us for an exciting and educational morning as we delve into the world of Garrett County’s black bears. On Tuesday, October 17, 20XX, at 10 a.m., we will gather at Dutch’s, located on Glendale Road, Deep Creek Lake, to explore these magnificent creatures in the company of guest speaker Jonathan Trudeau, Black Bear and Co-Deer project leader with the Maryland Wildlife and Heritage Service.
Garrett County’s Black Bears: A Fascinating Insight
Maryland is home to a robust population of black bears, a treasure shared with the Mid-Atlantic region. While these incredible animals are occasionally spotted throughout the state, they predominantly inhabit the four western counties: Allegany, Frederick, Garrett, and Washington. Our guest speaker, Jonathan Trudeau, will take us on a journey into the lives of Garrett County’s black bears.
What to Expect
During this informative presentation, Trudeau will share insights into various aspects of these fascinating creatures.
Living in Harmony with Black Bears
As human and bear populations continue to coexist in closer proximity, it becomes increasingly crucial to foster peaceful cohabitation. Jonathan Trudeau, drawing from his expertise, will provide valuable tips on how we can ensure that both humans and bears thrive harmoniously. You might be surprised to learn just how manageable this coexistence can be.
About the Speaker
Jonathan Trudeau took up his current position as Black Bear and Co-Deer project leader in 2022. He holds a master’s degree in biology, earned in 2017 from Ball State University. Currently, he is enrolled as a doctoral student at Michigan State University, where he is in the final year of study, specializing in the Boone and Crockett Quantitative Wildlife Center. He resides in Garrett County with his wife and two daughters.
Event Details and Reservations
To attend this captivating presentation and enjoy a delicious luncheon at Dutch’s, the cost is $20 per person. Reservations and payments must be made by 5 p.m. on Thursday, October 12, 20XX. You can easily reserve your spot via the club’s website at mountainlaurelgardenclub.com under the “Program & Events” tab.
Additionally, if you are interested in becoming a member of the Mountain Laurel Garden Club, you can find all the necessary information on the website.
Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn about the magnificent black bears of Garrett County and discover how we can peacefully coexist with these remarkable creatures. Join us on October 17th for a morning of education, conversation, and connection with nature.
Summer may have come to an end, but that doesn’t mean you have to stow away your boat, personal watercraft, or snowmobiles just yet. In fact, there’s a fantastic opportunity to make the most out of your watercraft and help your local community at the same time. The Deep Creek Lake Lions Club, known for its annual boat auction, is on the lookout for generous donations from the public for their next auction scheduled for June 8, 2024.
Why Donate to the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club Boat Auction?
You might be wondering why you should consider donating your boat, personal watercraft, or even boating accessories to this cause. Chris Nichols, the club’s treasurer, provides some excellent reasons: “This is a great way for local or vacation home boat owners to help the local community while gaining a potential tax write-off and saving on storage fees over the winter.”
It’s a win-win situation. You get to support your community, potentially reduce your tax liability, and free up valuable storage space during the colder months.
What Can You Donate?
Club President Mike O’Brien emphasizes that they are open to almost any kind of boat or personal watercraft. “We accept almost any boat or personal watercraft, as we know from past experience there is a great demand in the area for ‘slightly’ and even more-than-slightly-used boats, as we prove every year at our auction.”
And it’s not just about boats. They welcome donations of snowmobiles and any type of boating accessory you might have lying around. Your contribution can make a significant difference in their fundraising efforts.
Where Does the Money Go?
The Deep Creek Lake Lions Club is dedicated to serving the Garrett County area through various community initiatives, such as the annual Blind Skiers and Blind Campers programs. Additionally, they offer financial assistance for vision-related healthcare, eyeglass recycling, and support local and global organizations. They also manage the McHenry Community Park at 1249 Bumble Bee Road, providing a space for the community to come together and enjoy.
How to Get Involved
If you’re interested in donating a boat or boating accessories, you can get in touch with the club at DCLLIONS@gmail.com or call them at 323-325-5466. Your donation can make a significant impact on their community programs.
If you’d like to go a step further and become a member of the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club or participate in their community service initiatives, you can find more information on their website at https://deepcreeklions.org/ or contact Mike Tumbarello, the director of the marketing committee, at 410-707-7725 or tumbarellomike@gmail.com.
Donating your boat, personal watercraft, or boating accessories to the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club’s annual boat auction is a meaningful way to give back to your community, save on storage costs, and potentially benefit from a tax deduction. Join hands with this dedicated group and make a positive impact on Garrett County and its residents.
7 Small Towns In Maryland That Come Alive In The Fall- World Atlas
Oakland
As a small town with an idyllic setting, Oakland is tucked between mountains in Southern Garrett County near the Deep Creek Lake. There are many reasons to believe this town is the perfect fall destination in Maryland; from scenic mountain parks and wildlife adapting to fall leaves, like the Swallow Falls State Park and Bradford Park, to a vibrant art scene in the Oakland arts & entertainment district. Engage in park activities at Deep Creek Lake State Park overlooking the Deep Creek Lake and flanked by fall trees.
Take a walk or bike on the Oakland Heritage Trail or 88 Bridge walking/biking trail to observe the wonders of the changing season, red leaves, and refreshing air. While here, travel through time at the Garrett County Museum of Transportation and Oakland B&O Railroad Museum. Take part in the town’s annual Autumn Glory Festival, celebrating fall foliage with several musical performances and art for visitors.
more towns that were featured:
Thurmont is a small town, 10 miles from the Pennsylvania border, with a picture-perfect view at Catoctin Mountain Park, with space for everyone to explore. You can hike or cycle through the Catoctin Mountains or learn about wildlife, observing about 600 wildlife animals at the Catoctin Wildlife Preserve and Zoo.
Cunningham Falls State Park, which has the largest cascading waterfalls in Maryland, spans nearly 43 acres and is known for its picturesque landscape that shines even better in fall. The lake provides recreational activities, including fishing, hiking, hunting, and camping. Visit one of Thurmont’s orchards, like the Pryors Orchard or the Catoctin Mountain Orchard, which allows visitors to pick fruits while soaking in the classic fall foliage in the small town.
Chesapeake City
Chesapeake City Bridge at sunset, Chesapeake City, Maryland.
This enchanting small town is registered on the National Register of Historic Places for its notable landmarks like the C&D Canal Museum, excellent 19th-century architecture, and historic sites like the Chesapeake City Historic District. The town also rests at the northern end of the Chesapeake Bay, the largest estuary in the United States. It has a working commercial canal and is laden with abundant natural paths that change with the season.
Chesapeake City offers visitors a relaxing walk or drive through the Ben Cardin Recreational Trail or Chesapeake Wine Trails — a taste of fun and wine. You can spend all day wowing about fall foliage or discover arts, antiques, trendy wear, and ornaments in these high-spirited downtown shops like Belle on Bohemia and Old Gray Mare and Chick’s.
