mountains – Page 9 – Jay's Real Estate Blog

U.S. Rep. Trone Announces Over $43 Million in Latest Funding for Schools and Libraries

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.

for more information U.S. Rep. Trone announces over $43 million in latest funding for schools and libraries | Garrett News | wvnews.com

Grantsville native to star on ‘Chopped’ on Tuesday

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.

The 19th annual Deep Creek Lake Art & Wine Festival

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

for more information and ticket purchases Home – Deep Creek Lake Art & Wine Festival (deepcreekwinefest.com)

County Commissioners Announce August 28, 2023 Public Meeting Agenda

PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA
Monday, August 28, 2023
Agenda Session Times are Approximate

Meeting will also be Live Streamed at https://www.facebook.com/garrettcountygovernment/
Agenda Session Times are Approximate

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.

*To comment on agenda items – please send to comments@garrettcounty.org

3:00 Administrative Session

Declaration of Surplus County Property

60” Restaurant Electric Range
Bally Walk–in Freezer
1982 Galion Roller
1987 Mack Truck

Mr. Null will review a number of administrative and managerial matters under his authority and jurisdiction with the Board of County Commissioners

4:00       Call to Order of Public Session, Invocation, and Pledge of Allegiance

               County Administrator – Additions/Deletions to Public Meeting Agenda

               Approval of Public, Administrative, and Executive Meeting Minutes
4:05       Appointments:

Garrett County Commission for Women

        Appointment                   Reappointments
        Heather Hanline              Melita Friend
                                               Amanda Mattingly
                                               Erin-Ruth Natividad
                                               Juliet Sanders
                                               Pam Trickett

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.

for more information County Commissioners Announce August 28, 2023 Public Meeting Agenda – Board of Commissioners – Garrett County Government

Throwback Thursday- Einstein on Deep Creek Lake 1946

Deep Creek Lake had a brief relationship with one of the world’s most incredible minds in September 1946.

Fork Run Recreation Area Temporarily Closed August 17 – 25

A trail enhancement and maintenance project will temporarily close the Fork Run Recreation Area from August 17 through August 25, 2023. This brief interruption is necessary to ensure the safety of all visitors during construction and maintenance activities.

A new beginner loop will be created utilizing sections of the Red and Yellow Trails near the parking area and will expand access to a wider range of outdoor enthusiasts. Also, rock armoring and realignment of the Silver Trail will improve drainage and prevent erosion.

During this temporary closure of Fork Run, the Garrett Trails organization invites visitors to explore other fantastic outdoor destinations in the area:

For hiking, the Meshach Browning Trail System located at 1249 Bumble Bee Rd, Accident, MD 21520 is recommended. The suggested trails are the blue, green, and red trails totaling a distance of 2.5 miles.

For hiking and mountain biking, Deep Creek State Park located at 898 State Park Rd, Swanton, MD 21561 is an alternative trail system. Signed interpretive walks are available from the Discovery Center and on the Brant Mine Trail. Plus, longer, rocky loop trails ascend to the top of Meadow Mountain, providing an excellent bike adventure with a view of Deep Creek Lake.

We apologize for any inconvenience caused by this temporary closure but we look forward to welcoming you back to Fork Run Recreation Area on Saturday, August 26 when the new and updated trails will be ready to explore.

For further updates and information, please contact Siera Wigfield, Senior Planner, at swigfield@garrettcounty.org or 301-334-7477.

for more information visit Fork Run Recreation Area Temporarily Closed August 17 – 25 – Communications Office – Garrett County Government

Glendale Road expected to reopen by September 1st

Glendale Road is estimated to be reopened to traffic by Sept. 1. This schedule is subject to potential weather and equipment delays and updates at any time.

The realignment project has had the southern end of Glendale Road closed to traffic since June 14. The closure has allowed drainage and resurfacing work on the road from Route 219 and the entrance to Zeddock Miller Road.

To access the south end of Glendale Road, motorists should follow the detour signs: Sand Flat Road, to Paradise Point Road, to Zeddock Miller Road. All restaurants and businesses on Glendale Road are accessible with the detour.

Readers can view the detour here https://bit.ly/3OWRke6

Upon the reopening of Glendale Road, Zeddock Miller Road will be closed for approximately three weeks for an update to the tie-in entrance from Glendale Road.

State Highway Administration repaves I-68

August 10, 2023 – In an effort to ensure the safety and quality of Maryland’s transportation infrastructure, the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA) will initiate a significant right lane closure on the westbound stretch of I-68, commonly known as the National Freeway. This lane closure, scheduled to commence on Thursday, August 10, will span from Midlothian Road in Allegany County to MD 546, also known as Finzel Road, in Garrett County.

While the MDOT SHA and its appointed contractors strive to adhere to a stringent schedule, completion dates can be influenced by external factors such as weather conditions. As such, the comprehensive resurfacing project is projected to conclude by December of 2023, provided that weather conditions remain favorable.

for more information visit the MHA on maryland.gov

Big Funky Blues Festival

Nine incredible bands are taking the Outdoor stage of the Garrett County fairgrounds this upcoming weekend. Inside the AG Hall will feature tons of crafters and artisans. Back Outdoors within close proximity to the outdoor stage will include Axe Throwing, Glass Blowing, Blacksmithing, a HUGE kids Zone, and much more!
A wide array of Food, Beverage, and mouthwatering Desserts of all kinds, including Liberated Libations!
Tickets are on sale and available now through MDTix. Tickets can be purchased through the event website below.
This event is brought to you by OMG RELAX and in partnership with Camp Caring of Garrett County. This will benefit school aged children of Garrett County that are cognitively and physically challenged. One very special event not to be missed!
For tickets, Go to www.BigFunkyBluesFest.com
Schedule is as follows
10:50-11:00- Announcements and National Anthem by Kim Sweitzer

11:00-11:45 Tommy Lepson and the Bad Dawgs

12:00-12:45 Don’t Tell Suzie

1:00-1:45- Dave Chappell Band

2:00-2:45-Daryl Davis and Friends

3:00-4:00- Mary Shaver Band

4:15-5:15- Patty Reese Band

5:30-6:30- Eric Scott Band

6:45-7:45- WPG Trio featuring Bryan Fox

8:00-9:00- Nighthawks

for more information go to Big Funky Blues Fest – Garrett County, MD. August 12, 2023.

The Ghost Town of Garrett County

Nestled along the North Branch Potomac River lies the ghost town of Kempton, a historic site that straddles both Garrett County in Maryland and Tucker County in West Virginia. Steeped in history since its inception in 1913, Kempton was born as a company town to serve the thriving coal industry, much like its counterparts on the list of forgotten settlements.

The town thrived in the early years, reaching its peak in the 1930s with a population of around 900 residents, the majority of whom were employed by the Kempton Mine Company. With life bustling in the community, it seemed as though Kempton had secured its place in the annals of industrial prosperity.

However, fate had different plans for Kempton, and a somber chapter began to unfold in the 1950s. The once-vibrant town suffered a devastating blow with the abrupt closure of Mine No. 42, sending shockwaves through the local economy. As the lifeblood of the town ceased to flow, its vitality dwindled, and the decline set in.

In the years that followed, Kempton saw a steady exodus of its inhabitants seeking livelihoods elsewhere. Today, only a handful of residents remain in the area, testament to the resilience of those who chose to cling to their roots despite the adversities.

Visitors to Kempton will be met with a haunting scene of remnants from a bygone era. Among the overgrown landscape, one can find traces of its former glory, such as an aging marker and crumbling brick buildings that stand as stoic witnesses to the passage of time. Particularly poignant is the Buxton and Landstreet company store, a once-thriving establishment now succumbing to the elements.

As nature slowly reclaims the land, Kempton’s allure lies in its poignant charm and the bittersweet nostalgia it evokes. Exploring the ghost town allows one to reflect on the fleeting nature of prosperity and the indomitable spirit of those who forged a life amidst the rugged beauty of the region.

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