How many times have you crested Hooppole Ridge on US 219 above Little Sandy’s Restaurant and looked to the East to catch a glimpse of Deep Creek Lake and Backbone Mountain in the far distance? I must admit, this view still thrills me today, even after seeing it thousands of times over the past 60+ years.
We all jointly own this view. It is ours. Our eyes naturally seek out Paradise Point jutting out into Deep Creek at left center just past the Sand Flat bottomland of Pawn Run. To the left is the southern most end of Meadow Mountain, silently standing guard over Deep Creek Lake State Park. Rising to the right is Little Snaggy Mountain which hosts Sky Valley on one side and Thousand Acres on the other. Further to the right is another glint of Deep Creek waters leading towards Green Glade and Hazelhurst. This scene, lorded over by the majestic Backbone Mountain in the far distance, contains hundreds of small farms and thousands of homes owned by full time and part time Garrett Countians alike.
For me, this scene embodies who we are. The stalwart mountains and forests represent our strength to face oft times harsh weather conditions. The meadows, glades and valleys reflect our determination to wrestle a productive and joyous life in our remote rural location. The cool and calming waters of our lakes and rivers encourages us to adjust to and embrace changes brought to us by outside influences, while maintaining our local heritage handed down from Garrett Countians who came before.
Look closely at this scene. You will see a stoic figure observing the view and future that lies ahead, while contemplating memories and visions from the past. That figure is us.
As September dawns upon Garrett County, Maryland, it heralds the commencement of the much-awaited hunting season. For avid hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, it’s time to dust off your gear, check your licenses, and get ready for an unforgettable experience amidst the picturesque landscapes of Garrett County and the broader state of Maryland. To ensure you make the most of the upcoming hunting season, let’s delve into the comprehensive information on Deer Hunting, Migratory Game Bird Hunting, Small Game Hunting, and Furbearer Hunting and trapping.
Deer Hunting: A Regionally Defined Adventure
When it comes to deer hunting, Maryland is divided into two distinct Deer Management Regions. These regions, although within the same state, offer diverse hunting experiences due to varying terrain and deer populations. The line of demarcation between these regions is situated in Washington County.
For deer enthusiasts, Maryland provides an assortment of hunting methods and seasons to choose from:
Archery: Archery enthusiasts can draw their bows and aim for a bullseye starting in September, typically ahead of the firearms season. This early season allows for a more challenging and stealthy hunting experience.
Firearms: The firearms season encompasses a broad range of weaponry, including rifles, shotguns, and even air guns. This season usually commences after the archery season, offering hunters a variety of options to pursue their prey.
Muzzleloader: For those who appreciate the historical charm of black powder firearms, the muzzleloader season is an ideal choice. It follows the firearms season and adds another layer of excitement to deer hunting.
Sunday Deer Hunting 2023-2024 at Deep Creek Lake, MD
Deep Creek Lake in Maryland offers a unique opportunity for Sunday deer hunting during the 2023-2024 season. This picturesque location promises a memorable hunting experience amid stunning natural beauty.
Migratory Bird Hunting: A Symphony of Wings
Migratory Game Birds are a diverse group that includes brant, coots, doves, ducks, geese, rails, snipe, and woodcock. Among them, brant, ducks, and geese are commonly referred to as waterfowl. These birds traverse vast distances, making migratory bird hunting an exciting and challenging pursuit.
Hunters participating in migratory bird hunting can expect a season filled with anticipation and the symphony of wings overhead. As the sun rises and sets, the skies over Maryland come alive with the majestic flight of these birds, providing a unique hunting experience for enthusiasts.
Furbearer Hunting & Trapping: A Lesson in Patience and Skill
Furbearers, which include beaver, bobcat, coyote, fisher, gray fox, long-tailed weasel, mink, muskrat, opossum, raccoon, red fox, river otter, and skunk, offer a different kind of hunting and trapping challenge. Pursuing these elusive creatures demands patience, skill, and an understanding of their behavior.
The 2023-24 hunting season in Garrett County and Maryland at large is set to be an exhilarating journey for hunters of all backgrounds and preferences. Whether you are a seasoned hunter or someone looking to embrace the thrill of the hunt for the first time, the diverse opportunities and regulations in place ensure that every hunting enthusiast can partake in this time-honored tradition while contributing to wildlife management and conservation efforts.
As you gear up for the upcoming season, be sure to familiarize yourself with the specific hunting regulations and obtain the necessary licenses to ensure a safe and lawful hunting experience. Garrett County and Maryland await your arrival for what promises to be a memorable hunting season filled with adventure, camaraderie, and the joy of the great outdoors. So, mark your calendars, prepare your gear, and get ready to create lasting memories in the beautiful hunting grounds of Garrett County, Maryland. Happy hunting!
As the autumn breeze ushers in cooler temperatures and the leaves begin to turn, one beloved tradition returns to the scenic Cove area of Accident, Maryland. Cove Run Farms Corn Maze, a staple of the community, is set to open its gates for its 23rd season on Saturday, September 9th. This year, the maze takes on a special theme, focusing on Dementia Awareness, which promises an engaging and enlightening experience for all ages.
Cove Run Farms Corn Maze is located at 596 Griffith Road, Accident. The maze is open from 4-9 p.m. on Fridays (excluding Sept. 8), noon to 9 p.m. on Saturdays, and 2-6 p.m. on Sundays. Special arrangements can be made for groups outside of these hours.
Admission is $8 for ages 11 and up, $4 for ages 3-10, and free for children aged 2 and under. Additionally, pavilions and fire rings are available for rental for various gatherings.
Teachers interested in arranging field trips or anyone looking to make reservations can call 301-616-6111 or use Facebook Messenger for inquiries and bookings. Cove Run Farms Corn Maze also offers delightful baked goods, refreshing drinks, and the chance to witness the thrilling Rubber Duck Races.
In a significant development for education in Maryland’s Sixth District, Congressman David Trone has recently unveiled an infusion of $43,428,936 in federal funding through the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program. This program, a product of the American Rescue Plan backed by Rep. Trone, seeks to bridge the digital divide by addressing the homework gap faced by students lacking reliable broadband and computer access. The funds, allocated during the third application window, will bolster schools and libraries in Montgomery, Frederick, Washington, and Garrett counties, ensuring that students have the resources they need to succeed academically.
Closing the Homework Gap
Congressman Trone’s dedication to his constituents is evident as he emphasizes the importance of equitable access to education. He highlights the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program as a crucial step in breaking down learning barriers that many lower-income students encounter. As the son of a public school teacher, Rep. Trone understands the significance of this funding in providing high-quality education to the nation’s future leaders.
Allocation Breakdown
The latest round of funding, known as “Window 3,” includes the following allocations for schools and libraries in Maryland’s Sixth District:
Frederick County Public School District: $1,165,644
Frederick County Public Libraries: $40,440
Garrett County Public School District: $457,506
Montgomery County Public Libraries: $22,784,400
Montgomery County Public School District: $13,660,946
Washington County Public School District: $5,320,000
Moreover, previous allocations from “Window 1” and “Window 2” have further fortified educational institutions in the district:
Ivymount School in Rockville: $88,223
Frederick County Public School District: $5,022,279
Gaithersburg Community Support Services: $20,890
Garrett County Public School District: $472,745
Head Start of Washington County in Hagerstown: $14,038
Montgomery County Public Libraries: $15,975,170
Washington County Public School District: $391,680
YMCA of Frederick County: $101,034
The Impact of the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program
Launched in 2021, the Emergency Connectivity Fund Program has been instrumental in supporting off-campus learning, including nightly homework and summer online learning programs. This initiative ensures that students have the necessary resources to stay on track with their education.
To date, this funding has made a significant impact by providing support to approximately:
18 million students
11,100 schools
1,050 libraries
120 consortia
The program has also distributed:
Approximately 13 million connected devices
Over 8 million broadband connections across the country
Remarkably, this has resulted in $145,091,619 in federal funding being channeled into the state of Maryland alone, underscoring its immense value in bolstering education and closing the digital divide.
Adam Finzel, a native of Grantsville, is set to make a captivating appearance on the popular Food Network show “Chopped” airing at 8 p.m. on Tuesday, September 5th. The competition offers an enticing prize of $10,000.
Hailing from Northern Garrett High School’s class of 2011, Finzel’s culinary journey led him to Johnson & Wales University in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he pursued his passion for the culinary arts. Graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in food service management, his quest for culinary excellence took him to Paris, France, where he completed his college degree at the prestigious Alain Ducasse study abroad program.
Currently, Finzel has established himself in the vibrant culinary scene of Tampa, Florida, where he holds the position of Senior Sous-Chef at Lilac, one of the three Michelin-starred restaurants in the region.
Speaking about his inspiration for joining “Chopped,” Finzel credits his girlfriend, Jada Vidal, who herself has competed in various culinary shows. Vidal’s encouragement pushed him to take the plunge into the culinary competition world. The audition process was no cakewalk, involving several Zoom calls. Finzel’s excitement peaked when he received the final call confirming his selection for the show.
To prepare for the competition, the couple immersed themselves in the world of “Chopped.” They meticulously studied numerous episodes to gain insights into the show’s challenges, the placement of ingredients, and the use of kitchen equipment.
“Being on the set was surreal, reminiscent of my high school sports competition days,” Finzel remarked, highlighting the welcoming atmosphere created by the Chopped team.
The experience also opened Finzel’s eyes to the vast opportunities in the culinary industry beyond restaurant kitchens. He expressed enthusiasm for the exciting and challenging world of television cooking competitions, which can offer a refreshing change for chefs who may sometimes feel weighed down by the demanding nature of the restaurant business.
When asked about his plans for the $10,000 prize, Finzel revealed his dream to visit Tokyo, where he is eager to explore the vibrant cuisine and immerse himself in a new cultural experience.
Regardless of the outcome on “Chopped,” Finzel remains resolute in his culinary journey. His unwavering goal is continual improvement in his craft, acknowledging the ever-evolving nature of the culinary arts. He aspires to shape his own unique culinary style and make progress with each passing day.
In a heartfelt message, Finzel expressed his pride in representing Garrett County and conveyed his deep appreciation for the overwhelming love and support he has received from his hometown.
In a recent press release issued by the Garrett County Government, it has been announced that the anticipated reopening of Glendale Road is facing delays due to a combination of unfavorable weather conditions and disruptions in the supply chain. While the county had initially planned to reopen the road within a certain timeframe, these unforeseen circumstances have prompted a necessary adjustment of the reopening timeline. As of now, a specific date for the road’s reopening has not been finalized.
With the upcoming first day of the public school year in Garrett County scheduled for September 5th, local authorities have taken proactive steps to ensure a smooth transition for students and families. Two school bus routes have been strategically modified to accommodate the detoured traffic pattern resulting from the ongoing Glendale Road closure. It is reassuring to note that the local Transportation Advisory Council group has carefully evaluated the situation and anticipates only minimal disruptions to school bus operations due to the detour.
Since June 14th, the southern segment of Glendale Road has remained closed to traffic as part of a comprehensive realignment project. This extended closure period has been instrumental in enabling crucial maintenance work, including drainage enhancements and road resurfacing activities. The scope of this project encompasses the road section spanning from Route 219 to the entrance of Zeddock Miller Road.
Upon the eventual reopening of Glendale Road, it is important to be aware that Zeddock Miller Road will experience its own temporary closure for approximately three weeks. This closure is necessary to facilitate essential updates to the tie-in entrance connecting Zeddock Miller Road with Glendale Road.
Community members and commuters are advised to stay informed through official channels such as Garrett County Government communications and local news outlets for any further developments regarding the Glendale Road reopening and associated road closures. The county is committed to ensuring the safety and convenience of all residents during these necessary infrastructure improvements, and your understanding and cooperation are greatly appreciated.
The 19th annual Deep Creek Lake Art & Wine Festival, benefiting HART for Animals and Garrett Lakes Arts Festival (GLAF), features beautifully handcrafted works by local and regional artisans, more than 200 wines to taste from Maryland and national wineries, a lounge to watch college football games and purchase beer on tap, a cigar bar, live entertainment, food, wine store, lodging packages and more, all set in the beautiful mountains of western Maryland.
schedule is as follows-
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2023: 5-8PM: PREMIUM WINE TASTING
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2023: NOON-6PM ART & WINE FESTIVAL
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.
4:10 Garrett County Department of Financial Services – Purchasing Division
Bid Award – Town of Mountain Lake Park Sanitary Sewer System Improvements Phase 4A
The County participated in this cooperative bid with Mountain Lake Park. The County portion of the project was for a waterline replacement (approximately 1,010 LF including meters, valves, and valve boxes) at the request of Garrett County Department of Public Works – Utilities Division. The Town of Mountain Lake Park will manage the project with the assistance of Highland Engineering & Surveying, Inc. The County will reimburse Mountain Lake Park for the cost of water line alternate included in the project.
4:20 Public Commentary
Adjournment of Public Session
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 Monday, September 11, 2023 at the Deer Park Town Hall beginning at 6:00 PM.
