Deep Creek Lake Lions Club seeks boat donations

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

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.

for full article7 Small Towns In Maryland That Come Alive In The Fall – WorldAtlas

Experience the Best of Autumn Glory Weekend in Garrett County, Maryland

As the leaves change colors and the air turns crisp, it’s the perfect time to immerse yourself in the beauty of autumn. Garrett County, Maryland, is known for its breathtaking fall foliage, and Autumn Glory Weekend is the ideal occasion to enjoy everything this season has to offer. Here are some fantastic things to do during this autumn celebration:

1. Autumn Glory Turkey Dinners – Preorder Deadline

• Location: Mary Browning Community Center, 104 E Center St, Oakland, MD
• Date: Preorder for the weekend feast
• Don’t miss the chance to savor mouthwatering Turkey Dinners from Garrett County Community Action Committee, Inc. Preorder your delectable autumn feast and celebrate the season in style.

2. “Autumn Glory” Market at Deep Creek Lake

• Location: Shabby Patina, 6936 Sang Run Road, McHenry, MD
• Date: October 13 and 14, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Shop for fall and year-round home decor at the “Autumn Glory” Market. Explore unique items that capture the spirit of the season at Shabby Patina, open throughout the weekend.

3. Deep Creek Marina: Autumn Glory Weekend Open House

• Location: Deep Creek Marina Club, 2010 Deep Creek Drive, McHenry, MD
• Date: October 13 and 15, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
• Boating enthusiasts, take note! Deep Creek Marina is hosting an Autumn Glory Weekend Open House with incredible deals on Friday and Sunday. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to score fantastic bargains.

4. Autumn Glory Parade with HART

• Location: Downtown Oakland, Oakland, MD
• Date: October 14, 1:00 PM
• Join HART in the Autumn Glory Parade and be part of the celebration! Bring your friends and enjoy the festivities as the parade winds through downtown Oakland.

5. Deep Creek Farmers Market at the Autumn Glory Weekend

• Location: Garrett College, 687 Mosser Road, McHenry, MD
• Date: October 15, 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• After a successful second season, the Deep Creek Farmers Market returns for a special pop-up market during Autumn Glory Weekend. Explore fresh produce and local artisanal goods.

Autumn Glory Weekend in Garrett County, Maryland, is a time to embrace the beauty of fall, indulge in delicious meals, shop for seasonal decor, and enjoy outdoor activities. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, these events are sure to make your weekend memorable. Come and experience the magic of autumn in Garrett County! 🍁🍂

Fall 2023 Trout Stocking to Begin Across Maryland

Fishing spots to receive trout allotments in October

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources will begin fall trout stocking in early October. Department crews will transport thousands of state hatchery-raised brown, golden, and rainbow trout and release them in select creeks, rivers, lakes, and ponds across the state. 

Due to several variables that can alter schedules, stocking sites and times are not announced in advance, but are available immediately afterward. Anglers are encouraged to sign up for email updates to receive the latest stocking information. 

Starting in October, anglers can call the trout stocking hotline at 800-688-3467 on Fridays for a weekly update on all locations stocked. The department publishes daily stocking updates on its trout stocking webpage and posts them on Facebook and X, formerly known as Twitter. 

As a reminder, regulations are in effect requiring catch-and-release fishing only for brook trout in all put-and-take trout areas and all waters east of Interstate 81. Anglers should take time to properly identify brook trout, which are not stocked by the Department of Natural Resources. Some stocked streams have seasonal restrictions so anglers should consult the current Maryland Guide to Fishing and Crabbing for all regulations and restrictions.

Information on fishing licenses, trout stamps, and other related products are available on the COMPASS online licensing portal or the Department of Natural Resources Licensing and Registration Services website.

TEMPORARY BRIDGE CLOSURE OF SANG RUN ROAD BRIDGE SCHEDULED TUESDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2023

The public is advised that bridge inspection will be taking place on the date of Tuesday, October 3, 2023 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the Sang Run Road Bridge over Youghiogheny River.  During this timeframe, the bridge will be closed to traffic.

Alternate routes of traffic during this temporary closure include Oakland Sang Run to Swallow Falls Road and Cranesville Road to White Rock Road.

The public can address any questions regarding the temporary bridge closure to the Garrett County Department of Public Works – Roads and Engineering Division at 301-334-7488 or Tracy Kelley at 301-334-7482.

GLENDALE ROAD IS EXPECTED TO BE REOPEN TO TRAFFIC FRIDAY, 9/29/23 AND ZEDDOCK MILLER ROAD IS TEMPORARILY CLOSED

The Department of Public Works – Roads Division has been advised that Glendale Road is planned to be re-opened to traffic  on Friday, September 29, 2023.

Zeddock Miller will be temporarily closed for approximately four weeks for the purpose of completing tie in to the Glendale Road realignment. 

Alternate routes of traffic during the closure will include Paradise Point Road and Paradise Heights Road.

56th Annual Autumn Glory Festival

Enjoy the beauty of the fall season in the mountains as Garrett County celebrates the 56th anniversary of the annual Autumn Glory Festival, which features two large parades, live music, band competition, antique and craft shows from Oct. 11-15. Team One GMC is the title sponsor of the festival.

Take in the breathtaking views of the spectacular fall foliage by driving or biking one, or both, of the county’s Autumn Glory Fall Foliage tours. Head to visitdeepcreek.com/autumnglory or the Garrett County Visitors Center in McHenry to pick up the full map and directions.

On Oct. 11, the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce’s annual Autumn Glory Kickoff Dinner, sponsored by UPMC Western Maryland, features networking, dinner and a recognition of the annual Autumn Glory golden ambassador.

Oct. 12 features a fireman’s parade and the week continues with the town of Oakland’s Autumn Glory Carnival, Turkey Trail dinners, royalty court, Autumn Glory sales, corn maze, farmers markets and craft and antique shows.

The Official Maryland State Banjo, Fiddle & Mandolin Championships are slated for Oct. 13 at 6 p.m. at Southern Garrett High School and will feature banjo, fiddle and mandolin contestants of all ages competing for top honors.

On Oct. 14, the town of Oakland’s annual Autumn Glory Grand Feature Parade, sponsored by First United Bank & Trust, begins at 1 p.m. Over 100 entries include floats, clowns, bands, antique vehicles and more. Saturday will also feature the Western Maryland Tournament of Bands at 6 p.m. at Southern Garrett High School with a high school field show competition.

Antique and craft shows continue throughout the county on Oct. 15 along with the Autumn Glory Festival Car Show by Mountain Top Cruisers in downtown Oakland from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For more details, please log onto visitdeepcreek.com/autumnglory or call 301-387-4386.

Oktoberfest comes to the Wisp

Celebrate the autumn season with fall foliage, seasonal beer, harvest festivities, lederhosen, and dirndls. Join us for another Wisp Oktoberfest to enjoy seasonal beer, live music including the Oompah Band, kids’ activities, artisans, authentic German food, and more – PROST!

Oktoberfest Tasting Ticket from $39.00 includes:

• Tasting wristband (for ages 21+, ID required, beer vendors will only pour to guests with wristbands)
• Souvenir Oktoberfest 12oz. Beer Stein (must have beer stein for beer vendors to pour)
• 3 wooden tokens good for: 3- 12 oz. Pours of your choice from over 16+ beer choices

Oktoberfest Schedule

12pm – 6pm: Beer Vendors (while supplies last)Main Stage + McHenry Lodge
12pm – 6pm: Bavarian Food McHenry Lodge
12pm – 3pm: The Remedy Band Main Stage
12pm – 6pm: Artisan Village Lawn + McHenry Lodge
12pm – Kids Krafts (while supplies last) Lawn
1:30pm: Contest Main Stage
3:00pm: Contest Main Stage
3:00pm – 6pm: Oakland Volunteer Fire Dept. Oompah Band Main Stage
4:00pm – Contest Main Stage
5:00pm – Contest Main Stage

Oktoberfest Lodging Package

Starting at $345 pp*

Enjoy a 1 Leaf Peeping Scenic Chairlift Ride, entry into the Oktoberfest event, charcuterie board with Oktoberfest themed finger foods

to go Oktoberfest – Wisp (wispresort.com) to grab tickets!

Maryland's Foliage makes Top 'Hidden Gems' list

Each Fall, images appear online showcasing some of the most stunning examples of foliage. However, many Americans are perhaps unaware of alternative ‘hidden gems’ to see Fall’s foliage.

Mixbook, a #1 rated photo book brand, carried out a survey of 3,000 respondents, asking them which under-the-radar destinations they would most like to visit to see fall foliage this year.

Maryland made the list a whopping three times. Sitting at #20 nationally is MD’s Swallow Falls State Park.

#20 Swallow Falls State Park:

Tucked away from the bustling city, its ancient hemlock and hardwood forests burst into a mesmerizing array of reds, oranges, and yellows during autumn. This off-the-beaten-path sanctuary offers not only stunning waterfalls but also a serene escape to witness the seasonal transformation.

Other locations within the state that were cited were:

#117 Gambrill State Park:

The park’s mix of oak and maple trees burst into a captivating array of red, orange, and gold hues during the autumn months, creating a picturesque contrast against the rolling hills and panoramic vistas. Its relatively undiscovered status ensures a more peaceful and authentic encounter with the changing leaves, making it an ideal destination to relish the stunning colors of fall while hiking its trails.

#150 Green Ridge State Forest:

Its vast expanse of diverse deciduous trees, from maple and oak to hickory and birch, erupts into a symphony of vibrant hues during autumn. A kaleidoscope of colors against the backdrop of the Allegheny Mountains creates an unforgettable and often overlooked seasonal spectacle.

Fork Run Recreation Area Offers New Accessible Trail

At the Fork Run Recreation Area, located in McHenry, recent work funded by Maryland Department of Natural Resources Local Parks and Playground Program has changed the look and feel of the trail system. A milestone for Garrett County is the highly anticipated “Acorn Loop,” a picturesque 0.65-mile or 3,466 ft trail designed to provide an exceptional outdoor experience for hikers and bikers of all skill levels and abilities.

Recognizing the need for accessible options, Garrett County Government is committed to provide outdoor recreation opportunities to Garrett County residents and visitors alike. The new Acorn Loop trail epitomizes this commitment, offering a wide crushed limestone surface that is free of technical roots and rock obstacles and can be hiked in about 20-minutes.

Starting at an ample parking area, the Acorn Loop is thoughtfully marked for easy navigation. Also, it seamlessly connects to our existing network of more technical routes and back-country exploration areas totaling just over 8 miles.

Additionally, note a realigned Yellow Trail provides a more efficient route to the ledges and rock-climbing face and the Silver Trail has rockwork and alignment enhancements. Maps reflecting the changes are at the trailhead parking lot or online at www.GarrettTrails.org. Plans are also in progress to create a connector trail from the Beige Trail to Adventure Way (at the top of Wisp Mountain) estimated to be completed in Spring of 2024.

As Fork Run Recreation Area continues to evolve, we invite you to join us at the trails. Together, let’s create a welcoming and joyful outdoor environment where everyone can find their own path to adventure.

For more information about Fork Run Recreation Area, the Acorn Loop trail, or upcoming events, please visit www.GarrettTrails.org or contact Siera Wigfield at 301-334-7477 or swigfield@garrettcounty.org.