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Updated 7/23

Adventure Sports Center International Seeks Homestay Hosts for Visiting Athletes

Adventure Sports Center International (ASCI) seeks hosts for the Homestay Program for visiting athletes.  This program provides athletes an opportunity to stay, at no charge, in a friendly home with a local family while training or competing in ASCI sponsored events.  Housing is needed for the 2008 Whitewater Slalom National Championships August 26 through August 31st and for the Canoe/Kayak World Series – American Open, September 30 through October 5th.  These dates include practice and event days and not all athletes may need all dates.

Hosts are asked to provide a private or shared bedroom and bathroom, linens and towels, and if possible, kitchen privileges for food storage and preparation. Host families are not expected to provide transportation or meals.  “Meal time can however, be a wonderful time for conversation and sharing between athletes and hosts, and is encouraged when convenient for both parties,” reports Homestay Director, Darlene Miller.  She explains that “hosts and athletes complete applications to give us some basic personal characteristics, schedule requirements and preferences. We use that information to match athletes with an available host home.”

Homestay housing is a very different experience than staying in a hotel and requires a different set of expectations. Because this is someone's private home, athletes are expected to abide by the same reasonable rules of behavior that family members follow.  Quiet hours, television use, computer use, and family meal times will vary and should be discussed when hosts and athletes meet.

Hosts are welcomed to be involved in the race events during your athlete’s stay as much or little as you prefer.  At both Nationals and the World Series events there will be a welcome reception for the athletes and their hosts early in the week, and a party after the conclusion of the competition.  Free tickets will be available to hosts for events to complete the relationship that most certainly will develop between the home providers and guests.  Host families are also encouraged to join the ASCI volunteer crew during this and other ASCI events

Homestay hosting is a great opportunity to meet and interact with interesting people from many states and foreign countries. If you know anyone else who would be interested in volunteering their home for a few days for this program, please have them get in touch with Darlene Miller, Homestay Director at ibdarmiller@yahoo.com or 301 387 -0007 or Sue Fowler, ASCI Community Programs Coordinator at sfowler@adventuresportscenter.com or 301 387-3250

Updated 7/10

U.S OLYMPIC TEAM – CANOE/KAYAK TO TRAIN AT ASCI, JULY 14 TO 18

 The 2008 US Olympic Team – Canoe/Kayak will be conducting a training camp at the Adventure Sports Center International (ASCI) during the week of July 14– 18. 

The 2008 US Olympic Team – Canoe/Kayak will include five athletes: Scott Parsons (K1), Benn Fraker (C1), Heather Corrie (K1W), Casey Eichfield and Ricky Powell (C2).  The team’s two coaches are Silvan Poberaj and Cathy Hearn. Casey and Ricky are part-time ASCI employees, and Ricky is enrolled at the Adventure Sports Institute beginning this fall. Scott Parsons is a resident of Bethesda, MD.    

ASCI invites the public to join the excitement and come to ASCI to watch America’s best prepare themselves for Olympic competition in Beijing.  The team will take advantage of exclusive time on ASCI’s whitewater course to practice for the 2008 Olympics in Beijing.  The tentative training schedule is:

  • Monday, July 14, 4:30-6:30 p.m.

  • Tuesday, July 15, 9:00-10:30 a.m.

  • Wednesday, July 16, 8:30-10:00 a.m.

  • Thursday, July 17, 9:00-10:30 a.m.

  • Friday, July 17, 9:00-10:30 a.m.

This year’s team was selected last weekend in Augsburg Germany, at the World Cup #3.  The World Cup was the final Olympic selection race being used for USA Canoe/Kayak (USACK) to select the five athletes that would go on to the Beijing Olympic Games.

In addition to team training during their week at ASCI, press visits and autograph signings will also be conducted. Visit the ASCI website at www.adventuresportscenter.com  or call 301-387-3250 for information on the Olympic Team’s schedule while in Garrett County.

Updated 7/1

Chamber Thanks 2008 Fire on the Mountain Firework Display Sponsors

 The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce would like to recognize and thank all of this year’s sponsors for the July 4th Fire on the Mountain Firework Display Sponsored by Wisp Resort.

 Along with major sponsor, Wisp Resort, additional sponsors of this year’s Fire on the Mountain Display include the Deep Creek Lake Property Owners Association, Bill’s Marine Service, Devlin, Inc., Garrett Container Systems, My Bank First United Bank & Trust, Railey Mountain Lake Vacations, Accident Garage, Lake Pointe Inn, Rush Services, Double GG RV Park, and Garrett Automotive.

 “With the generous donations of local businesses, we are able to provide a spectacular fireworks show each year,” said Charlie Ross, President/CEO of the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce. “The Chamber would like to thank each of these local sponsors for their generosity in supporting the 2008 Independence Day celebration.”

Updated 6/25

RESCUE DEMONSTRATIONS OFFERED AT ADVENTURE SPORTS CENTER INTERNATIONAL

 Where:  Adventure Sports Center International
When:  Saturday, July 5
Who: presented by Walter Augustine

10:30am   Swift Water Rescue Demonstration:

Come see how the professionals train for rescue situations around swift moving water.  Learn proper rescue techniques and procedures if you are first at the scene of a water emergency. You will have a chance to learn the basic use of whitewater rescue equipment including throw ropes, as well as, witness a live rescue simulation conducted by professionals in the whitewater course at Adventure Sports Center International.

1:00 Wilderness Rescue Scenario

Being in the wilderness and facing an emergency situation requires skills when 911 is not an immediate option.  Witness a demonstration of how professional rescuers react and handle injuries in the aftermath of a wilderness accident.  Learn what you can do for self rescue or to help others.  Spectators are welcome to join in as a rescuer or as a ‘victim.’ Caution: for those faint of heart, please be aware that theatrical makeup will be used to create a realistic look on our victims. 

Both demonstrations are open to the public and free of charge. 

Walter Augustine is the Rescue School Coordinator for Adventure Sports Center International. He is an ACA Swift Water Trainer, CPR Instructor, Wilderness Medicine Instructor, Basic Life Support (BLS) Instructor and an instructor of Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS).  Walter served in the Marines in Operation Desert Storm.  He has participated in many search and rescue operations and serves as an EMT with Northern Rescue Squad.  He has a deep passion for rivers and has been rafting for 25 years.

Updated 6/19

2009 FY Budget Approved

The Garrett County Commissioners have approved the fiscal year 2009 operating/capital budget at $85,298,803 which is over $13 million less than the 2008 FY budget.  Revenues are expected to increase $3 million with $1 million allocated to increases in operational expenses.  The other $2 million will be go toward education.  Capital projects have been deferred because of budget constraints.  These projects include the new detention center, the animal control/adoption center, the Wisp Adventure Road and some other roads projects.  The real property tax rate will remain at $1 per $100 of assessable base.  The new budget is available online.

Updated 6/9

Mountain Maryland License Plate Applications Available at the Chamber of Commerce

Applications for Mountain Maryland license plates are now available at the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce.  After several attempts to get legislative support, the PACE committee was finally able to get the Mountain Maryland plates passed with the Motor Vehicle Administration.

The application cost is $25, on top of regular licensing fees. Mountain Maryland license plate applications can be picked up at the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce located at 15 Visitors Center Drive in McHenry. For more information, please

Mt. Fresh McHenry Farmers Market

The Mt. Fresh McHenry Farmers Market will be opening in a new location for the 2008 season on June 19.  The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce Visitor’s Center parking lot will host the market this year.

“We’re excited that the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce is allowing the market to be held in their parking lot,” said Cheryl DeBerry, Agriculture Marketing Specialist for Garrett County Economic Development.  “The location on Visitor’s Center Drive is very visible from Route 219 and should be a prime location for a successful farmers market.”

The 2008 market will also be held on different days and times.  “Having the market on Monday and Thursday evenings will allow people leaving work to stop by the market on their way home,” said Lori Schmuck, vendor at the McHenry Farmers Market.  “They can have the freshest vegetables and baked goods in the county on their dinner table that evening.”

Mountain Fresh McHenry Farmers Markets will be held June 19 through August 28 on Mondays and Thursdays from 4:00 to 6:30 pm at the Garrett County Visitor’s Center parking lot off Rt. 219 in McHenry.  Mountain Fresh Oakland Farmers Markets will be held June 7 through October 29 on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Mt. Fresh pavilion by the Oakland town parking lot off Second Street. 

The Mountain Fresh Producers Association hosts producer-only farmers markets featuring fresh produce, herbs, honey, jams and jellies, baked goods, plants, crafts, and fall decorations from the mountaintop area.  For more information, visit www.MountainFresh.org or call 301-334-6960.

Record Number of Guests Attend Chamber’s Annual Dinner

The annual Garrett County Chamber of Commerce dinner, held Thursday, June 5th, enjoyed a record number of attendees this year at the Lodge at Wisp Resort. With entertainment by the ten-piece local band known as “The Remedy,” the 244 attendees enjoyed dinner and saw the presentation of the Heise Entrepreneurial Spirit Award, the President’s Award and five “Favorite Sons and Daughters” Awards. 

 Brenda McDonnell won the Heise Entrepreneurial Spirit Award. McDonnell owns and operates Brenda’s Pizzeria & Traders Coffeehouse. Winners of the Heise Entrepreneurial Spirit Award must have originated and developed a business from inception, shown a willingness to take risks, shown community involvement, held high ethical standards and demonstrated leadership by overcoming a formidable problem that threatened business’ existence or shown business acumen through embarking on a creative, insightful or overlooked opportunity that will make an important contribution to Garrett County’s business environment through substantive community impact.

 The Heise Entrepreneurial Spirit Award Committee, comprised of previous winners, selects three nominees to be voted on by the general Chamber membership. The winner is announced at the Annual Membership Dinner and Meeting.  Past honorees include Jonathan “Smiley” Kessler, Bill Sisler, Olen Beitzel, Johnny Marple, Barry Rush.  Last year’s recipient, Dave Demaree of Demaree Inflatables, presented the award to Brenda McDonnell.

 Larry Roby from Rent-A-Chef, Haley Farm Bed & Breakfast and the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce will be jointly hosting a private dinner for the present and previous Heise Award Winners on Monday, June 9 at Haley Farm Bed & Breakfast.

 Garrett County Commissioner Denny Glotfelty received the President’s Award from Charlie Ross, President/CEO of the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce. The President’s Award recognizes achievement in building the business community in promoting Garrett County beyond its borders and in creating a dramatic shift that improves the quality of life for Garrett County citizens.

 The five recipients of the annual “Favorite Sons and Daughters” Awards were “those who achieve awards, honors and accomplishments from outside of the County that impact us all and let the world know just how good Garrett County is.” The five recipients were:

 Crellin Elementary School, who has received three prestigious awards this year under the direction of Principal Dana McCauley.  They were awarded the Ernest L. Boyer 2008 Best Practices National Award for Character Education and the National Civic Star Award in recognition of their community partnerships that enrich student knowledge and achievement. The parents of Crellin were also awarded the Comcast Parent Involvement Matters Award for their work in support of Maryland public education.

 Garrett College Lady Lakers Basketball Team, who were the 2008 NJCAA Region XX Champions, earning them a shot at the National Junior College Athletic Association Division II National Championship in Illinois.

 First Team 1629 (the Garrett Coalition) and their robot Meshach 2.0, who were awarded the Engineering Inspiration Award, which celebrates outstanding success in advancing respect and appreciation within a teams school and community.  Team 1629 also won the Delphi "Driving Tomorrow's Technology" Award, this award celebrates an elegant and advantageous machine feature.

 Emily Rosser, ranked 1st in the senior class at Northern High School. Rosser is also a member of the Girl Scouts Trillium council, received the Girl Scout Leadership and Gold Award, which included giving presentations and demonstrations to local schools. Emily was also Student of the Month, inducted into the NHS Math Hall of Fame and also participated in various sport s where she received 3 varsity letters.

 Maria Duff, Swan Meadow student who won the state of Maryland’s sixth grade poetry content in the Young Authors Contest. With this honor, Maria and her family traveled to Baltimore for a reception and were able to sightsee through the city.

Board of Directors’ Chairman Jimmy Flanigan presided over the annual meeting portion of the evening extending congratulations to the Board’s outgoing member, George Jones and welcoming new Board Member, Shane Grady.

Door Prizes for the annual dinner were graciously provided by Chamber members. Deep Creek Sweets provided a basket of chocolates, Husky Power Dogsledding provided a 2-3 hour kennel tour experience and presentation, Radio FX provided 300 hours worth of air time Canaan Valley provided a one day & one night golf package for two, DeBerry Farm provided a jar of salsa and pepper jelly, Simon Pearce provided glassware, the Winner’s Circle provided a $20 gift certificate, and Alpine Lake Resort provided a dinner gift certificate.

 

Updated 5/13

Adventure Sports Center Community Days

Adventure Sports Center announces special pricing for local residents through the 2008 Community Days program.  Throughout the season, Garrett County residents are invited to raft or kayak at deep discounts on these special days.

“ASCI sees it’s role as central to introducing Garrett County residents and visitors to the lifelong benefits of outdoor adventure recreation.  We invite anyone in Garrett County to take advantage of these days.”  says ASCI Executive Director, Matt Taylor.

 Reservations are encouraged as these high demand days sell out quickly. Walk-ins will be taken based on capacity, and non-residents are welcome during Community Days at the regular price.


2008 Community days are:

Friday, May 16th
Wednesday, June 18th
Wednesday, July 16th
Wednesday, August 27th
Friday, September 19th
Sunday, October 12th

The cost is $15 for I hr raft trips and you may book up to two trips back to back.  Kayakers with their own equipment can boat for $5.  Rental comfort wear is available and includes wetsuit, splash jacket, and river booties for $12.  Call 301 387-3250 for reservations.       

DNR Kicks Off The 2008 Maryland Fishing Challenge
Diamond Jim Returns with the Promise of Big Prizes

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is pleased to announce the kick-off of the 2008 Maryland Fishing Challenge featuring Diamond Jim on Saturday, April 12.

“Maryland’s unparalleled fishing opportunities offer anglers and families terrific outdoor experiences in every corner of our state,” said DNR Secretary John Griffin. “We opened the tournament early this year to include Maryland’s premiere trout fishing opportunities.”

In the same manner as last year, any angler who catches a citation award qualifying fish will be eligible to win one of several grand prizes. Beginning in early June, anglers will also have the opportunity to win up to $25,000 in cash for the capture of Diamond Jim — a specially tagged striped bass that will be released — along with a number of imposters — at three major events this summer.

Returning for the fourth year as a sponsor is Boater’s World, which is offering up to $25,000 in cash awards for the capture of Diamond Jim and $500 gift certificates for the capture of imposters. Coming back for a third year are Central Atlantic Toyota and Bass Pro Shops, who are each donating the grand prizes, a Toyota Tundra 4x4 pick-up truck and a Tracker boat, motor and trailer, respectively. Bill’s Outdoor Center in Oakland, a sponsor since 2006, is providing $5,000 worth of various prizes and Smyth Jewelers is offering an extra incentive to catch “Diamond Jim” — a diamond worth $5,000.

“We are inspired by the success of the annual tournament and the excitement it generates across the board, from the most experienced angler to youngsters learning to cast,” said Fisheries Service Director Tom O’Connell. “Fishing in Maryland is for everyone and we hope this contest inspires residents and non-residents alike to get out and enjoy the experience.”

More than 60 species of fish are eligible for the grand prizes, including large and smallmouth bass, trout, walleye, musky and panfish in the freshwaters of Maryland; rockfish (striped bass), bluefish, drum, sea trout and perch in the Chesapeake Bay; and tuna, marlin, flounder, kingfish and sea bass on the oceanside. The contest runs through September 1. Grand prize winners will be randomly selected at a closing ceremony in mid-September. For the rules and tournament information visit www.dnr.maryland.gov/fishingchallenge.