The Deep Creek Blog

Garrett County Artist Studio Tour Weekend

Artists of Garrett County, in conjunction with the Garrett County Arts Council, invite the public to visit their working studios on Saturday and Sunday, July 28 and 29.  Studios will be open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on Saturday and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm Sunday.  The tour will encompass a broad section of the county and includes 21 artists at 7 separate locations.  Artists will provide demonstrations and artwork for sale, as well as the opportunity to talk with them about their artistic process and the business of art in the region.

The Artist Studio Tour is free.  An array of work will be featured including pottery, jewelry, fused glass, furniture, photography, wood crafts, painting, sculpture, recycled folk art and handmade paper artwork.  This is the fifth annual event.  “This is a chance for the community and our guest to really make contact with the variety of talent we have locally. Some of the locations are not generally open to the public.” said an Arts Council spokesperson.

A brochure of the studios is available at a number of area locations including The Gallery Shop, the Visitors Center in McHenry, Ruth Enlow Libraries, and various businesses throughout the area.  There will also be directional signage along the tour route to guide drivers to the sites. 

For more information, contact the Garrett County Arts Council at 301-334-6580.

 

 

 

 

 

2012 Maryland Bear Lottery

The 2012 Maryland Bear Lottery is underway.

Savage River Watershed Association Welcomes New Executive Director

 The new Executive Director of the Savage River Watershed Association (SRWA), Kathy Bisko, will be introduced at the July 19 bi-monthly SRWA meeting to be held at 7 PM in the classroom of the Appalachian Laboratory in Frostburg, MD. The public is welcome to attend.

Over the past 15 plus years Bisko has worked with a diverse group of communities, organizations, and businesses to help implement local programs and projects. These range from a green building initiative in rural Montana to the construction of a residential subdivision on a reclaimed brownfield site in suburban Philadelphia. Most recently she has been working as program director for a non-profit organization in Somerset County, Pennsylvania to implement community improvement projects based on locally priorities and long-terms goals.

In her new position as Executive Director of SRWA, Kathy looks forward to dedicating her skills and experience to help preserve and enhance this extraordinary natural area. According to Bisko, “Although there are sure to be many challenges along the way, the organization has an impressive record of accomplishments to build on—and I am excited about the potential to do even more good work on behalf of SRWA in the future”.

The SRWA is a group of local landowners and other citizens dedicated to preserving and enhancing the rural nature and natural resources of the Savage River watershed. Members assist interested landowners and public land managers with environmental stewardship efforts and educational outreach. Anyone who is concerned about the Savage River watershed is invited to join. For more information, persons may contact SRWA through email at SRWAdirector@gmail.com or by telephone at 301-689-7156. The SRWA is a non profit charitable organization. Donations may be sent to: Savage River Watershed Association, PO Box 355, Frostburg, MD 21532. For directions or further information, contact us at 301-689-7156.

 

 

New Germany State Park Hosts Blacksmithing Workshop

Local metal sculptor and blacksmith, Kenny Braitman, will be showcasing his talents with hands-on demonstrations and instruction on the unique art of sculpting metal, during a series of three workshops at New Germany State Park. The events are free of charge, and will take place outside the park’s Lake House from 7 to 9 p.m. on July 14, 21 and 28.

Braitman specializes in combining traditional blacksmithing techniques with contemporary design, often merging metals with glass, stone and found objects.

“Together they sometimes make a stronger statement than any of the elements individually,” he said. “Incorporating materials found in nature lends a soothing, comforting feel for me.”

Braitman’s metalwork has been featured in many shows throughout the region and has won Best in Show on multiple occasions. Braitman is the owner of Carey Run Forge in Frostburg.

More information is available by calling the Ranger Station at 301-895-5453 or emailing park-new-germany@dnr.state.md.us.

Local Businesses Challenge Zoning Decision

Local marina owners are filing a petition for judicial review in regard to the  County Commission’s decision to amend the Deep Creek Watershed zoning ordinance to add a new category for boat rentals.

New Germany State Park Happenings This Week

Friday, July 13th:

Spooky Owl Prowl, 9:00 PM

It’s Friday, the 13th… spooky!  During this fascinating program, participants are invited to venture into the forest for a guided hike by light of the moon.  With any luck, participants will hear some of the “spooky” hoots, wails, and shrieks of owls native to the park.  Participants are encouraged to wear appropriate footwear and bring a flashlight for safety when leaving the program.  Meet at the Nature Center, next to the Lake House.

Saturday, July 14th:

Moss Graffiti, 1:00 PM

Participants are invited to join the park naturalist and discover an exciting new, environmentally-friendly form of art.  Meet at the Nature Center, next to the Lake House.

Tree Quest – Any Time

This self-guided activity challenges participants to explore the park on a quest to locate and successfully identify a series of trees, using the materials provided.  The activity is designed for families to enjoy independently, at their own pace.  Activity packets can be obtained at the Nature Center, from 10 AM – 6 PM.  

Dutch Oven Cooking, 5:30 PM

This program will provide participants with all of the ingredients needed to create an outdoor feast, including unique recipes, tips, and demonstrations.  Cost is $5 per person, which will include a free hot dog, all-u-can-eat S’mores, and a variety of sample-food items.  Children 5 & under are FREE.  Participants are encouraged to bring an appetite and meet at the Nature Center.

Campfire Program:  Appalachian Blacksmith Workshop, 7:00 PM

This workshop will feature award-winning metal sculptor and blacksmith, Kenny Braitman.  This will be the first of three workshops, in which Braitman will provide hands-on demonstrations and instruction on the unique art of sculpting metal.  Additional workshops will be held on July 21st and 28th.  Meet at the Nature Center, next to the Lake House.

Sunday, July 15th:

Who Polluted the Potomac? 11:00 AM

This entertaining and interactive program will illustrate how everyone contributes to pollution, and more importantly, how everyone can be part of the solution.  Meet at the Nature Center, next to the Lake House.

Wednesday, July 18th:

Leave No Trace Hike, Games, & Crafts, 10:00 AM

Leave No Trace – Bigfoot’s been doing it for years!  This activity will feature a short hike with the park naturalist, in which participants will learn about Leave No Trace outdoor ethics.  The activity will conclude with Leave No Trace games and crafts.  Participants are encouraged to wear appropriate footwear (close-toed shoes).  Meet at the Nature Center, next to the Lake House.

Garrett County Chamber Hosts Business Before Hours - State of the County on July 17

The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce will hold a State Of The County at the next Business Before Hours on Tuesday, July 17, 2012 at Will o' the Wisp. Join Garrett County Commissioners Jim Raley, Bob Gatto and Gregan Crawford as they discuss the County’s priorities, pending projects, challenges and plans for this fiscal year. The forum begins at 8 am with breakfast and networking, followed by the program from 8:30 am - 9:30 am.

 “We are very pleased to host our County Commissioners to provide our members an overview of how Garrett County is fairing,” said Nicole Christian, Chamber President & CEO. “It’s been a tough few years and it is important that what is happening in the County is communicated with the business community.  These Commissioners have made it a goal to be accessible and transparent and their participation in the State of the County is helping them to achieve that goal.”

The cost for members is $15 in advance or $20 at the door. The cost for non-members is $30. Register online or by calling Charlotte at 301.387.6171 by Friday, July 13 to receive the advanced payment discount for members. Space is limited so early reservations are recommended.

Clear Mountain Bank and Potomac Edison are the sponsors of Business Before Hours – State of the County. Clear Mountain Bank is a locally-owned community bank that offers quality financial services and products with fast, friendly, and convenient service. Potomac Edison provides reliable low-cost electrical service for Western Maryland.

The Business Before Hours breakfast programs are bi-monthly events designed to focus on specific topics with formal presentations. The remaining topics slated for 2012 include Industry Appreciation and Tourism Update. Non-competing sponsorship opportunities are available for each forum. For more information or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Sarah Duck at sarah@garrettchamber.com or 301.387.8746.

Fire on the Mountain Fireworks Display Tonight

Fireworks will light up the sky this July 4^th at the annual “Fire on the Mountain” presented by the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce. Hugh Umbel Companies is the Major Sponsor for the 2012 display.  Hugh Umbel companies include Bear Creek Traders, Deep Creek Shop N’Save Fresh, Legacy Home Corp., McHenry Beverage Shoppe and Perkins Restaurant & Bakery.

The display is set to begin at dark. The fireworks are launched from the top of the Bear Claw Tubing Park at Wisp Resort. Prime viewing locations include the Scenic Overlook on Route 219, Wisp Resort and from a boat on the lake, particularly around McHenry Cove. The Property Owners’ Association of Deep Creek Lake is a Platinum Sponsor, Wisp Resort is an Associate Sponsor, Constellation, An Exelon Company, is a Contributing Sponsor and Special Sponsors are Bill’s Marine Service and Garrett Container Systems. Additional sponsors include: Beitzel Corporation, Clear Mountain Bank, Devlin, Inc., Double G RV Park, Glotfelty Enterprises, the Junior Women’s Civic Club, Lake Pointe Inn, Long & Foster Real Estate & Rentals, My Bank! First United Bank & Trust, Pillar Innovations, Railey Mountain Lake Vacations and Railey Realty.

 “I would like to thank all of our sponsors; we could not put on such a fabulous show without their support,” said Nicole Christian, President/CEO of the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce. “Be sure to take advantage of the Independence Day activities throughout the area! On Tuesday, head to Broadford Park Recreation Area for their Independence Day Celebration. On Wednesday, don’t miss Accident’s Homecoming Celebration including their 11 am Parade and enjoy an Independence Day concert from the Garrett Community Concert Band & the Garrett Choral Society at 7 pm on the lawn at Garrett College before wrapping up your celebration with a big bang at Fire on the Mountain.” Check the online calendar of events at visitdeepcreek.com for full details.

The rain date is July 5. For more information about the 4^th of July Fire on the Mountain Fireworks Display, please stop by www.visitdeepcreek.com or call 301.387.4386.

 

Volunteers Host 13th Annual Art in the Park at Deep Creek Lake State Park

Forty-five plus artists including several new to the festival, display and sell their work at the 13th Annual Art in the Park in one of Western Maryland’s most magnificent settings – Deep Creek Lake State Park, July 14-15th.

Arrive by boat, car or foot – enter through the gate at Deep Creek Lake State Park (service charge applies). The park is located on the east side of the lake – where recreational choices abound.

“Art in the Park is an event for the entire family to enjoy,” said Caroline Blizzard, volunteer coordinator of the Western Garrett County State Park Volunteers, Inc. (WGCSPVI) “Beautiful art work, hands-on activities, delicious food will delight children and parents alike. We are proud to offer such programs that can bring family, fun and education together.”

Co- sponsored by the Western Garrett County State Park Volunteers and the Garrett County Arts Council, Art in the Park provides a great fundraising opportunity for both organizations while presenting a quality festival. All artwork on display is available for purchase. The variety of artistic and handmade pieces at the event include: jewelry, photography, wood turned items, native wildflowers, pottery, fused glass, original artwork, wood painted furniture, handmade wooden furniture, tatting, homemade chocolates, hand-woven baskets, wool rugs, handmade soaps, children’s books w/ the author and much more.

 
Art in the Park will occur on Saturday, July 14th from 10 – 5 and on Sunday, July 15th from 10 – 4, rain or shine. Admission is the usual charge into Deep Creek Lake State Park, $3.00 per person for MD residents and $5.00 per person for out-of-State vehicles. Docking is available for those wishing to come by water. Plan to come for the day and enjoy Art in the Park, along w/the beach area and all that the park has to offer. For more information about this event and other programs offered at the Discovery Center, please call 301.387.7067 or visit www.dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/western/discovery.html