The Deep Creek Blog

FSU To Present "Amahl and the Night Visitors" and Chamber Choir Performance Dec. 12-13

Dec. 13 Concert in Memory of FSU’s “First Lady,” Maggie Guild

Frostburg State University Department of Music will present the Opera Theatre production of “Amahl and the Night Visitors” by Gian Carlo Menotti and the FSU Chamber Choir in concert, on Saturday, Dec. 12, at 8 p.m. and Sunday, Dec. 13 at 3 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center’s Pealer Recital Hall.

The Dec. 13 performance will be the Maggie Guild Memorial Concert, dedicated to the memory of “FSU’s First Lady,” the wife of former president Nelson Guild, who passed away last December.

The FSU Chamber Choir, under the direction of Karen Soderberg and assisted by Betty Jane Phillips on piano, will open the concert with seasonal selections, “Today the Virgin” by John Tavener; “Lo, How a Rose E’er Blooming” by Michael Pretorius and arranged for 12-part choir by Jan Sandström; the mystical “Lux Aurumque” by Eric Whitacre; “Snowflakes” by Lane Johnson; the gentle Portuguese lullaby “Boyo Balu,” arranged by Dale Warland; and the very rhythmic “Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day by John Gardner.” The Chamber Choir’s portion of the concert will conclude with the “Twa Tanbou” by Sidney Guillaume, “Rondes” by Folke Rabe and the nonsensical “Sweater Weather” by Kenneth Jennings.

The performance will continue with the FSU Opera Theatre production of Gian Carlo Menotti’s beloved opera “Amahl and the Night Visitors.”

Admission is $5 for adults, students $3 and children under 16 free. For more information, contact the FSU Department of Music at 301-687-4109.

Situated in the mountains of Allegany County, Frostburg State University is one of the 13 institutions of the University System of Maryland. FSU is a comprehensive, residential regional university and serves as an educational and cultural center for Western Maryland. To learn more, visit www.frostburg.edu.

FSU is committed to making all of its programs, services and activities accessible to persons with disabilities. To request accommodations through the ADA Compliance Office, call 301-687-4102 or use a Voice Relay Operator at 1-800-735-2258.

Constellation Energy Buying Garrett County Wind Project

The AP is reporting today that Constellation Energy will buy and develop the Clipper Windpower project in Garrett County.

OTT Christmas Market on December 5th at St. Peter's Parish Social Hall

On Saturday, December 5th, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Our Town Theatre's 3rd Annual Christmas Market will be held at St. Peter's Catholic Church Parish Social Hall, as part of Oakland, Maryland’s “A Small Town Christmas.” OTT’s Christmas Market will enable shoppers to support Garrett County artists and contribute toward Our Town Theatre's Backstage, which is the new scenery, costume and prop shop on Center Street in Oakland. Market activities include shopping for handmade gifts, a Christmas Cafe with chili and Fair Trade coffee and tea, Bake Sale, Gift Wrap, and Christmas music and readings.

New artists this year include Laura Stutzman, who will autograph and sell books she has illustrated: “B” is for Blue Crab, an alphabet book of Maryland, and The Happy Prince. Ms. Stutzman will give half-hour presentations at her booth at 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. to share her experiences with the process of illustrating books and working with a publisher. Artist Robert Yonke will also be selling his acclaimed watercolors and Christmas cards. Deborah Robinette will sell her unique handmade tables, birdhouses and bird feeders from recycled wood, and Marla Sines, of M-DZINES, will sell her natural handmade soaps, candles, flaxseed pacs, and pampered pet products.

Handmade fine stoneware, nature photography and cards, art glass jewelry, ornaments, bottle stoppers; crocheted, hand-knit and felted gifts, animals, and dolls; wooden puzzles, baskets, cutting boards, handmade rugs, silk Christmas flower arrangements and wreaths; sock animals, Gortner folk art, handmade Christmas cards, Amish cookbooks, Fair Trade coffee, tea, and chocolates; and sign-up for CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) shares are some of the gifts shoppers can choose from at OTT’s Christmas Market on December 5th.

Sherry Remley, Celtic harpist, Rick and Margie Jordan on guitar and violin Marci McClive and Ruth Seib of Marsh Mountain Consort, , and Richard Hill, guitarist and singer, are among the local musicians who will play throughout the day on December 5th. Members of Garrett Reading Council will also read holiday children’s books in the afternoon.

Another new booth this year is Angel Photos. One to three angels at a time will be photographed in 15-minute intervals by photographer Angie Sincell. Reservations must be made by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, December 4th, by calling Our Town Theatre at 301-334-5640. Each digital photograph will be $10. Costumes will be those worn in Our Town Theatre’s recent production of Best Christmas Pageant Ever, so they will best fit children ages 5-12.

50/50 raffle tickets will also be sold, and the drawing will be held Saturday at the Christmas Market. The winner will not need to be present. A door prize, from the 50/50 raffle tickets, will be given away every hour. OTT’s board encourages all to come and support local artists and theatre at OTT's Christmas Market. For more information, call OTT at 301-334-5640.

Happy Thanksgiving!

The Deep Creek Blog wishes you and your family a very happy Thanksgiving. 

If you're in town, check out "A Great Small Town Christmas" kicking off on Black Friday in Oakland.  Also, don't forget to stop by The Festival of Trees.  Sunnyside Wools is once again celebrating Christmas on the Farm and in the Barn on Friday and Saturday.  The Adventure Sports Center International shop is hosting an artist reception at 6pm on November 27th for photographers Reverend Chip Lee and Kathleen Gibbs. 

Dancing Classrooms Comes to Western Maryland

Owner of the Balanced Body Studio and Wellness Center in Deep Creek Lake, MD, Jennifer Christophel, recently returned from New York City where she trained this past week with internationally known celebrity, educator and dancer, Pierre Dulaine, founder of Dancing Classrooms and originator of the Dulaine Teaching Method. 

Jennifer is the Executive Director and Site Director of the newly established, Dancing Classrooms Western Maryland Inc., which she hopes to introduce to the schools of Garrett and Allegany Counties in Maryland and neighboring Preston County in West Virginia. 

Dancing Classrooms is a non-profit arts in education program which serves as a social development program for 5th grade children utilizing the art of ballroom dancing to not only have a positive effect on the lives of the children, but those in support of them. The program applies a curriculum-based teaching approach of the vocabulary of various contemporary social dances in a classroom setting to help students achieve social awareness, collaboration, teamwork, active arts making, self- awareness, confidence, creativity, cooperation, and high self esteem. Dancing Classrooms has experienced tremendous wide spread success with the 2005 release of the documentary, “Mad Hot Ballroom”. This film captured the Dancing Classrooms journey from the classroom experience to the culminating Colors of the Rainbow Team Match.  In 2006 the movie, “Take the Lead” (with Antonio Banderas) was released and depicted Pierre Dulaine's efforts to utilize ballroom dancing to help our youth gain a sense of self-respect.  Both of these movies greatly accelerated national and international interest and in 2006 the program began developing Dancing Classrooms sites throughout the US. 

Mrs. Christophel plans to have the Dancing Classrooms of Western Maryland site up and running in September 2010 and hopes to pilot the program in a Garrett County school in the spring of 2009. The program is made possible through the generosity and sponsorship of individuals and businesses. Mrs. Christophel will be hosting a Community Luncheon and Reception on Tuesday, December 9th, 11:30-1:30 pm for local educators, potential sponsors and community leaders. She and a National Dancing Classrooms representative will be presenting the Dancing Classrooms program, explain what it is and how it could impact our communities. If you are interested in attending, please call 301-387-7585.

FSU's Theatre and Dance Department to Present "A Christmas Carol"

The Department of Theatre and Dance at Frostburg State University will present the holiday classic, “A Christmas Carol,” on Dec. 4, 5, 9, 10, 11 and 12 at 7:30 p.m. Matinee performances will be held on Dec. 5 and 12 at 2 p.m. All performances will take place in the Performing Arts Center’s Drama Theatre.

“A Christmas Carol” tells an enthralling story of the redemption of a human soul. The play follows the ever-powerful Scrooge, a lonely and greedy miser, who, through the intervention of spirits and visions from his past, present and future, finds a second chance to become a caring, generous human being. Adapted by Gerald Freedman, this richly textured play brings the full spirit of Dickens’ London to life through spectacle and song. A delight for the eyes, ears and heart, “A Christmas Carol” is a holiday gift to experience with the whole family.

Tickets are $6 for students and $12 general admission. For reservations and more information, contact the Theatre and Dance box office at 301-687-7462, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. and from 1:30 to 4 p.m.

FSU is committed to making all of its programs, services and activities accessible to persons with disabilities. To request accommodations through the ADA Compliance Office, call 301-687-4102 or use a Voice Relay Operator at 1-800-735-2258.

Garrett County Artist Work at New Hospital

Garrett County artist Fred Peacock has recently sold a collection of four area landscape paintings and sixty-eight small still-lifes to the new Western Maryland Health System hospital in Cumberland.  Much of his inspiration comes from his home close to the wild and scenic Youghiogheny River.

The largely self-taught artist volunteers his time as a board member of the Garrett County Arts Council.  He has had solo shows in Columbia, Maryland, at the Garrett Council’s Gallery Shop in Oakland, at Adventure Sports Center International and at the Garrett College Art Gallery.

The work of local artists was a key design element of the new medical facility which had closely reviewed artists and their work before making purchases for interior spaces.  “I am honored to be among the artists selected to furnish original works, “Peacock said. 

The four large paintings Peacock sold to the hospital depict panoramic views of the Youghiogheny River near his home and represent the artist’s unique method of layering oils to bring out the rich interactions of colors.  “Most of my paintings are composed with ten or more layers of paint, “he said.  “After applying the first few layers to establish the picture’s basic structure, I am engaged in a conversation with the painting.  I step back several feet, ask the painting what it needs next and then, when I see the answer, I step up and respond in paint.”

He strives to create good representative paintings that are rewarding to look at for years-from across a room or from a few inches away.

Although he has taken a few arts courses and workshops, Peacock has excelled as a painter from intense practice and exercises in oil painting.  After a lifetime of dabbling in art and experiencing the light during time spent in Province, France during 2000, he has pursued his art seriously.  He states “The secret of learning to paint is thousands of hours of practice.”

He grew up in Bethesda, Maryland, worked for thirty years as an economist and retired to Garrett County with his wife Erin in 2003.  Much of his works portray his feelings for the majestic beauty of the river and the woods, but he has recently pursued small but meticulous paintings of pears and peaches, to improve what he calls his rendering “of the edge between light and shadow.”  Sixty-eight of these 6”x8” still-life paintings will be displayed in two large groupings in the dining area of the hospital. 

The Garrett County Arts Council oversees The Gallery Shop in Oakland, a retail showcase for artists like Peacock, and coordinates a bevy of activities and workshops to promote the arts through Garrett County.  In addition, it provides more that $40,000 in annual local grants funding for some 20 arts organizations.   It receives funding from Garrett County government, the Maryland State Arts Council, and support from council members.  Visit www.garrettarts.com for more information.

Students Honored with Public Reception

The Garrett County Arts Council in cooperation with Garrett County Solid Waste & Recycling Division is currently hosting an exhibit of recycled art created by local high school students.  A reception for the young artists was held this past Saturday at The Gallery Shop in downtown Oakland.

The fifth annual “Rethink Recycling” sculpture contest was held for Garrett County students, grades 9-12.  The contest encouraged area youth to create sculptures made of materials re-purposed and incorporated into a work of art.  The work was judged on creativity, workmanship and use of materials.  The variety of recycled materials was considered in the judging.  

“The sculpture contest challenges students to innovatively and artistically use recycled materials as a solution to waste reduction” stated Kim Madigan, Recycling Coordinator for Garrett County.  Working with their school art teachers, students use problem-solving skills to create a sculpture made of recycled materials and explore an environmental issue through art.  The project allows students to understand there are many opportunities to reduce waste in our everyday activities while allowing them to express their creativity.  Madigan said “The contest enables us to educate and empower students and the general public to reuse and recycle materials that would have otherwise gone to disposal.  The sculpture contest and judging ceremony is a great opportunity to celebrate the efforts of local student artists and for promoting waste prevention to the general public.”

Four winners from the local contest then traveled to Baltimore to the Maryland Department of the Environment Headquarters to participate in the statewide contest.  After competing in the state contest, the students were given the opportunity to visit the American Visionary Art Museum located at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor.  

The “Rethink Recycling” exhibit is on display now through December 5 at The Gallery Shop, 206 East Alder Street, Oakland.  Funding for the project is made possible through various corporate and civic sponsors.  The primary sponsor is the Garrett County Arts Council.  GCAC provides more than $40,000 in annual local grants funding for some 20 arts organizations. GCAC receives funding from Garrett County government, the Maryland State Arts Council and support from council members. For more information contact 301-334-6580 or visit www.garrettarts.com

Dance Camp!

Garrett Barn Quilts

The Times-News reports on four barns that display quilt squares as part of the Garrett Barn Quilts project.  Information is provided for those interested in taking a self-guided tour at www.garrettbarnquilts.org. 

"American Idol" Stars to Present Holiday Concert at FSU

The Frostburg State University Cultural Event Series will present “American Stars in Concert for the Holidays,” on Sunday, Dec. 13, at 7:30 p.m. in the Alice R. Manicur Assembly Hall in the Lane University Center.

Four of the top 10 finalists from the hit show “American Idol” will perform a selection of holiday favorites in solo, duet and ensemble performances accompanied by a live band. The will be under the direction of Michael Orland, the musical director of “American Idol.” Season eight’s Michael Sarver, a former oil rigger, placed 10th on “American Idol” and is now a professional singer. Alexis Grace finished 11th in season eight and is currently a radio disc jockey. Season seven’s David Hernandez placed 12th on the show and currently is an actor and songwriter. Finishing ninth in season six, Gina Glocksen performs original music across the country.

Tickets are $35 for adults and $25 for those under 17. Special VIP tickets, which are $65 per person, include a front-row seat and a meet-and-greet opportunity with the artists. Group discounts are available. Tickets may be purchased by calling 1-866-849-9237 or 301-687-3137 or online at http://ces.frostburg.edu. 

Tax Increase Debate At Commissioner's Meeting

The Times-News reports on the recent Garrett County Commissioner's meeting where the proposed hotel tax was debated. 

Discovery Center Holiday Open House

Once again this year, enjoy a Holiday Open House at the Deep Creek Lake Discovery Center on Saturday December 12th.  Sponsored by the Western Garrett County State Park Volunteers, Inc, the event includes a visit with Santa, crafts, coffee and homemade cookies.  For more information on this program, call 301-387-7067. 

Get Your GLAF Season Discount

Enjoy a 20% Discount on GLAF Season Subscriptions now until December 31, 2009.  If you buy now, you'll save $30 per adult season subscription and $6.00 per student season subscription.  Buy early for a great holiday gift for family and friends.  Call the GLAF office at 301-387-3082 or order online at www.artsandentertainment.org. 

Regional Resorts Collaborate for Season Pass Holders

Pennsylvania’s Laurel Highlands ski resorts Seven Springs Mountain Resort and Hidden Valley Resort with Maryland’s Wisp Resort are proud to announce an exciting new offering that will provide each resort’s Unlimited Season Passholders more value, more options, and more reason to experience great Mid-Atlantic skiing for the 2009/2010 ski season.

Unlimited Season Passholders at Seven Springs Mountain Resort, Wisp Resort, and Hidden Valley Resort will each receive one (1) complimentary full day lift ticket and a 50% discount on regularly priced lift tickets for any additional visit to either of the other two participating resorts, excluding Saturdays and holiday periods. By simply presenting their valid 2009/2010 Seven Springs, Hidden Valley, or Wisp Unlimited Season Pass at the season pass office of the other resort, season passholders will be able to ski or ride Sundays through Fridays during the 2009/2010 ski season, excluding holiday periods. Additionally, each resort’s Unlimited Season Passholders will receive special lodging rates Sunday through Thursday nights, excluding holiday periods and subject to availability.

The program, which began last season between Hidden Valley Resort and Wisp Resort, has now expanded for the 2009/2010 season to include Seven Springs Mountain Resort.

“We are thrilled to be part of the collaboration with Wisp and Hidden Valley this year. It is consistent with our philosophy of creating a regional destination to help spur growth in the Laurel Highlands and Mid Atlantic region and create value for our customers” commented Eric Mauck, CEO of Seven Springs Mountain Resort.

The three resorts, all located within an hour driving time from each other, make the area a great destination for those wishing to experience more than one resort on an extended winter vacation.

“With the addition of the special lodging rates this year we are able to give our loyal customers a great incentive to take a well deserved trip to another resort without the headache of flying or spending a lot of money” stated Michael Valach, Director of Skier and Rider Services, Wisp Resort.

All three participating resorts are proud to offer this perk to their loyal, dedicated customers and wish to show appreciation in these tough economic times by adding this opportunity to provide a diverse skiing / snowboarding experience.

“The Perks Plus program provides an affordable means for our family season passholders to experience different terrain at the other resorts,” stated Bill Doring, President of Hidden Valley Resort.

The Perks Plus Season Pass Program is available for all customers who may have already purchased a 2009/2010 Unlimited Season Pass from Seven Springs Mountain Resort, Hidden Valley Resort, Wisp Resort, or may wish to purchase one for the coming season.

For further information or to purchase a 2009/2010 Unlimited Season Pass, please contact: Seven Springs Mountain Resort: www.7springs.com, 814-352-7777; Wisp Resort: www.wispresort.com, 301-387-4911; or Hidden Valley Resort: www.hiddenvalleyresort.com, 814-443-8000.