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Extreme Home Makeover is coming to Maryland! Nominate a Garrett County family!

I can think of many deserving families here in Garrett County that could use the help! Nominate someone that you think could use it and get the word out! Let’s get Extreme Home Makeover to Garrett County, Maryland!

From the website:

ABC’s EXTREME MAKEOVER: HOME EDITION SEARCHING FOR

DESERVING FAMILIES

DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED!!!!

HOLLYWOOD, CA – February 1, 2010

Do you know a family whose home deserves an Extreme Makeover? If so, the producers of ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition want to hear from you. Ty Pennington and his crew have been all across the map and now they want to drive that famous bus to Maryland!

“We are looking for the deserving people and inspiring families that America can really root for,” says Casting Supervisor Rebecca Shumsky.

What does it take to be picked for an Extreme Makeover? “We’re looking for those special people who have amazing strength of character and never give up. Whether it’s keeping their chin up in really tough circumstances or going out of their way to help others. We want to help people whose stories have really affected their community or made a big difference in other people’s lives.” Shumsky added: “There are a lot of people who are heroes to those around them because of the way they inspire others and quietly serve their communities on a daily basis.”

The Extreme Makeover: Home Edition producers are looking for families whose homes desperately need to be rebuilt. “We really want to help families whose homes present major problems for the family, those big issues that affect the family’s quality of life on a daily basis. We want to find deserving people who just don’t have the resources, ability, or time to fix those serious issues without our help.”

To be eligible, a family must own their own single family home and be able to show producers how a makeover will make a huge difference in their lives.

Interested families should e-mail a short description of their family story to:

castmaryland@gmail.com

Nominations may be submitted by the family or by a member of their community. Each nomination must include the names and ages of every member of the household along with a description of the major challenges within the home. Anyone submitting a nomination should be sure to explain why the nominated family is deserving, heroic, and/or a great role model for their community. If possible, include a recent photo of the family. All nominations must include a contact phone number.

The deadline for nominations is April 2, 2010. Don’t delay!

For more information on how to apply please visit our website at:

http://abc.go.com/primetime/xtremehome/index?pn=apply

If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

More Garrett County seniors eligible for property tax break

Commissioners extend 50 percent credit

Megan Miller Cumberland Times-News

Cumberland — OAKLAND — A recent act by the Garrett County Commission could give more residents a tax credit on their county tax bills, starting this tax year.

Currently, county residents who qualify for the state Homeowners’ Property Tax Credit program, are 65 or older, and have lived in Garrett for at least 10 years, can also receive an additional credit of 25 percent of the state credit amount to apply to their county tax bill.

But the income threshold and tax bill guidelines to qualify for the state program left out a portion of Garrett’s low-income seniors who “probably suffer more than anyone else in trying to pay their taxes,” according to County Administrator Monty Pagenhardt.

Now residents who don’t meet the requirements for the state program can qualify for a county credit if they are 65 or older, have lived in Garrett for at least 10 years and have a combined gross household income of $25,000 or less. That extends a county credit to people whose incomes are low, but whose tax bills aren’t high enough to meet the state program guidelines.

“This goes over and above the state’s guidelines,” Pagenhardt said. “It’s not that much money for the county, about $8,300 in lost revenue, but the commissioners felt they wanted to do something to benefit that segment of county residents.”

Those seniors who qualify for the expanded county program will receive a 50 percent credit on their county real estate and landfill taxes, but their state taxes will not be affected.

Pagenhardt said the three commissioners agreed unanimously on the action, which makes about 32 more households eligible for county tax relief.

Wendy Yoder, director of financial services, said residents must still fill out the state application to be eligible for either the county and state credits or the new county credit program.

Applications are due by Sept. 1 for the tax bills that will come out in the summer, she said. The application forms are available online at www.dat.state.md.us, at the State Department of Assessments and Taxation office in the Garrett County Courthouse, or by calling that office at (301) 334-1950 and requesting a form by mail.

For more information contact the county staff at (301) 334-8970.

Contact Megan Miller at mmiller@times-news.com.

Garrett County Chamber of Commerce – Deep Creek Lake

The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce is a vital mechanism here at Deep Creek Lake & Garrett County. They provide a vast amount of resources for local business to thrive & advertise, as well as allow visitors and locals alike to plan new and exciting adventures. The Chamber of Commerce is located at Deep Creek Lake, beside my real estate office at Railey Realty.

Some more info from their website:

Visitor Info
The multitude of activities in Garrett County & the Deep Creek Lake area is as endless as the mountains in which they’re nestled. From extreme adventure to total relaxation, casual nightlife to fine dining, there’s something fun in store for everyone—anytime of the year!

View vistas that inspire renowned photographers; traverse river banks with exciting falls or enjoy the gentle rock of your boat on Deep Creek Lake. Few destinations along the East Coast offer such a variety of seasonal outdoor activities, attractions and accommodations!

Visitor Info Links
Keep Garrett Green!
Getting Here

Did You Know?
Licenses & Boat Registration

Local Weather
Online Brochures
Tourism Link

If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

Deep Creek Do it All – Cleaning Vacation Homes, Business, Residence

From their Facebook page:

Do you need more time for yourself and your family? Do you want to spend the weekend cleaning after working hard all week? Deep Creek Do It All understands that you have a busy schedule and better things to do than clean. When you’re looking for a reliable and efficient cleaning service and only the best will do, call Deep Creek Do It All!

# Reliable cleaning with flexible scheduling to suit your needs
# Customized services tailored to your specifications and budget
# Move in/move out cleans
# Vacation rental cleaning
# Residential homes
# Spring cleans
# Construction cleans
# Professional Office building cleans
# Family operated/owned- not a franchise.
# Serving Deep Creek lake/Oakland/Garrett County areas
# Free Quotes
# Grocery, toiletries and special item stocking available
# Gift certificates for anniversaries, birthdays, Mothers Day and expectant/new mother cleans

Deep Creek Do it All
301-501-0217 – direct
Free Quotes!

If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

Lakeside Club – Deep Creek Lake – Wisp on the water


I had lunch at the Lakeside Club at the end of last summer amd it was awesome. The food was great, the atmosphere was very upscale and I believe it is the home of Deep Creek’s 2nd parking garage (the other being at Will o the Wisp). Great water & ski slope views and lakefront, as well. Check with Wisp Resort for membership info:

http://wisprealestate.com/lakeside.html

From the website:

Enjoy the freedom and activity of the waterfront lifestyle-even if you don’t own a home on the shores of the lake. Opt for a high mountain view homesite, and you can still escape to a private waterfront getaway with a membership to the Lakeside Club, where you and your family can revel in all the fun of lakeside living. Dining and locker rooms will compliment a separate activities center, and you’ll find family activities, cabana, kayaks and other warm weather pleasures. Beautiful areas are designed for outdoor dining and parties, an infinity edge swimming pool, water trampoline and slide, plus you’ll access preferred member privileges at local businesses and marinas.

Welcome to The Lakeside Club at Wisp Resort.

If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

Garrett County Airport @ Deep Creek Lake Expansion Project Finalized

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Seven-Year Long Airport Expansion Project Finalized

Mar. 11, 2010

The Garrett County Airport Runaway Extension Project is officially completed now that all the paperwork has been finalized, airport manager Ed Kelley told the county commissioners on Tuesday.
His announcement was part of a General Services departmental update report presented by director Gary Mullich.

Because of funding issues, the $17.5 million project was conducted in two phases over seven years. Design work and land acquisition began in 2003. Ground was broken in late 2004, and, finally, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the expanded airport last year.

“Construction was completed in 2009, but we were still in the process of completing the paperwork,” Kelley said. He noted that pro-cess took about eight months.

Mullich said the commissioners signed off on the airport layout plan about four weeks ago.

“That was the last piece of paperwork to go, which documents everything we’ve done for the last seven years,” the director said.

The project resulted in the airport length being increased by 2,000 feet. Construction there included a new 50-foot parallel taxiway, 24 airplane T-hangars, terminal and equipment buildings, and water/sewer lines. A new trackless vehicle, an upgraded AWOS (automated weather observing system), a new card reader system, and new security system were also added.

Funding came from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), about 82 percent, or $14.4 million; Garrett County, about 14 percent, or $2.4 million; Maryland Aviation Administration (MAA), about 4 percent, or $691,000; and Federal Emergency Management Agency, about .002 percent, or $37,500.

Kelley said he compiled some before-construction and after-construction statistics, which indicate the expansion costs were a “very good investment” for the county.

In 2004, total sales at the airport amounted to $28,889, compared to $183,476 last year, according to Kelley.

“So, you can see the large jump in total sales,” he told the commissioners.

The average number of flights per day also increased. In ’04, there were 4.55 per day, compared to 7.85 last year when the expansion project was completed.

Kelley also noted there was a “large jump” in jet A fuel and avgas sales. In ’04, there were 8,465 gallons sold for a total income of $22,628. Last year, 24,349 gallons were sold, garnering the county $96,078.

More hangars at the airport also means more income for the county. In ’04, the county had only four hangars and received $3,760 in rent. Last year’s income was $76,806.

Read the rest of the article here.

If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

Deep Creek Lake Level Still Being Lowered; Public Warned Of Dangerous Ice

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Lake Level Still Being Lowered; Public Warned Of Dangerous Ice

Mar. 11, 2010

The Deep Creek Hydroelectric Station issued another press release this week in its continuing effort to alert persons to the potentially dangerous conditions on Deep Creek Lake. The company is working with the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to monitor the snow pack, lake ice thickness, and water level at the lake.
Brookfield Renewable Power, owner of the Deep Creek Hydroelectric Station, in ongoing consultation with the agencies, is making adjustments to the lake level in an effort to minimize serious and potentially damaging high water conditions that will occur as this winter’s record lake ice and snow pack thaw. Recreational users of the lake should use extra caution as changing conditions can be dangerous. Persons should be aware that the water level is dropping, so the ice crust may be unsafe.

Brookfield announced last week that it had consulted with MDE and DNR and been granted a waiver to draw the lake level down to two feet below the March lower limit of its water use permit. The 2-foot drawdown was achieved on Sunday, March 7.

The Deep Creek Hydroelectric Station operates under a Water Appropriation and Use permit from the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). Under the permit conditions, the station uses water to generate hydropower, while keeping lake levels within a defined “rule band” with upper and lower limits. Any waiver from the rule band limits must be approved by MDE.

Representatives of the MDE, DNR, and Brookfield met Monday to review current lake levels, weather forecasts, and the latest measurement of the snow pack and lake ice. At that meeting, it was determined that Brookfield will continue to gradually lower the lake level beyond the original 2-foot waiver.

“Our goal is to get the lake to a level where it can safely accommodate the snow melt, thus avoiding high water and pressure on the dam,” said David Barnhart, general manager for Brookfield’s Mid-America Operations. “We’ve agreed with MDE to do all we can to lower the lake further.”

Barnhart added that public safety is a top priority for all involved. Brookfield, MDE and DNR continue to advise users on or near Deep Creek Lake to be observant for changing conditions.

“With the water level being drawn away under the ice cover, and this week’s spring-like temperatures, we continue to remind users of the surface of Deep Creek Lake to be extremely cautious,” said Carolyn Mathews, manager of the Deep Creek Lake Recreation Area.

She added that unseen hazards “always exist when recreating on naturally-formed ice.”

The officials said that lower water levels and warmer temperatures may present the following dangers:

•Ice that cracks or suddenly shifts as additional weight is applied;

•Ice that shifts, lifts, and/or settles, creating unexpected ridges;

• Ice slabs that break off near the shoreline, creating open water between stable interior ice and the shore.

Because many people are potentially affected by the lowering of the water level, MDE is requiring that public notice be provided to the local media. For more information on the lake’s level, persons may visit www.deepcreekhydro.com.

If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

Melting Snow, Rainfall Could Cause Flooding

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(Jay’s note: I took this pic of the Youghiogheny River yesterday, and Oakland had already started placing ‘High Water’ signs at certain points that were starting to flood. I think it’s important enough to read these flood warnings just in case)

Melting Snow, Rainfall Could Cause Flooding

Mar. 11, 2010

Because of the unusually high amount of snow that has fallen this winter, flooding is expected in the area in the days ahead.
“Residents should prepare now for possible future floods,” said Director Brad Frantz, Garrett County Department of Public Safety and Emergency Management.

Garrett County government, Public Safety, and public roads officials, in conjunction with Allegany County and Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA), have been taking appropriate steps to minimize the effects of flooding. That includes organizing damage assessment teams ready to be deployed to assess public infrastructure and individual residential and business damages; preparing shelters for evacuation areas, clearing drainage areas, pre-staging swift-water rescue teams; and declaring a local state of emergency in order to acquire outside resources.

Frantz offered the following steps that residents can take in advance to prepare for floods:

•Make sure your insurance policy covers flooding. Even renters are eligible for flood insurance. For more information, you can contact a local insurance agent.

•Move furniture and valuables to higher floors as floodwaters rise.

•Keep your car’s gas tank filled in case you need to evacuate.

Follow the instructions given by emergency officials. If told to evacuate, do so.

Listen to radio or television for information, and have a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio with a warning alarm tone and battery-back-up to receive warnings. You may also receive telephone messages from Garrett County’s reverse 9-1-1 system, which will give you specific instructions.

A flash flood or flood watch means that flash flooding or flooding is possible within the designated watch area. Citizens are advised to be alert.

A flash flood or flood warning means that flash flooding or flooding has been reported or is imminent and citizens are advised to take necessary precautions at once.

An urban and small stream advisory means that flooding of small streams, streets and low-lying areas such as railroad underpasses and urban storm drains is occurring.

If you receive a flash flood warning, you may have only seconds to take the following actions:

•Get out of the area subject to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, canyons, and washes.

•Avoid already flooded and high or rapidly flowing areas. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams.

•If driving, be aware that the road bed may not be intact under flood waters. Turn around and go another way; never drive through flooded roadways.

•If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground. Rapidly rising water may engulf the vehicle and its occupants and sweep them away. Remember, it is better to be wet than dead.

•Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

•Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening weather conditions.

•If you come to a flowing stream where water is above your ankles. Stop, turn around, and go another way.

•To report damage from flooding, you may call the Garrett County Public Safety 24-hr. hotline at 301-334-4444.

For more information about flooding, a joint publication of the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the American Red Cross is available. For a free copy of “Repairing Your Flooded Home,” you can write FEMA Publications, P.O. Box 70274, Washington, D.C., 20024, or call 1-800-480-2520.

Additional information can be found on MEMA’s web site at mema.state.md.-us/MEMA/content_page.-jsp?TOPICID=floods or at www.floodsmart.gov.

If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

Brutus Scheffel Wins 4th Straight State Championship


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There was no prouder grandfather in the state of Maryland on Saturday than George Scheffel Sr. of Oakland, who is pictured congratulating his grandson George III – also known as Brutus – after the Southern High School senior won his fourth straight Maryland high school wrestling championship, a feat that had been accomplished by only three other wrestlers in the history of the state tournament. The icing on the cake for George Sr. was that Jakob “Bubba” Scheffel, younger brother of Brutus, claimed his second state title, as did teammates Lex Ozias and Davey Stewart. The four individual titles, plus a runner-up win by Ryan Bennett, gave the Rams their second consecutive team state championship.

If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350

Mountainside at Deep Creek Lake – community profile


Mountainside memories will be yours forever in this lovely wooded lake access community at Deep Creek Lake. Spectacular views are afforded on many lots while others offer that tucked away privacy you are looking for. This exquisite neighborhood offers a great location plus on-site amenities including a lakeside clubhouse, tennis and basketball courts with pavilion, hiking trails and boat dock privileges. Make Mountainside your home away from home!


Special Features

Lake and mountain views.

Close to all lake activities, including Deep Creek Lake State Park & Wisp Ski & Golf Resort.

Lakeside clubhouse located next to one of Deep Creek Lake’s best attractions- the Lakeside Creamery.

Common areas in the community featuring tennis courts, basketball courts, a covered pavilion, a mountaintop deck showcasing the views of Deep Creek Lake & surrounding mountains, and hiking trails.


Amenities

– Basketball Court
– Hiking Paths
– Lakeside Deck
– Mountain Views
– Pavilion
– Multiple Dockslips- Common
– Tennis Court
– Water Access
– Water Views


More links:

www.DCLinfo.com/Mountainside – search all Deep Creek Lake communities

Here is a link to local news & information about Mountainside.

Search Railey Realty properties for sale at Mountainside subdivision.

Railey Realty Blog – Mountainside Info

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s1rIGLJTkUc&hl=en_US&fs=1&]

Buying or selling real estate at Mountainside? Call Jay Ferguson!
877-563-5350 toll free

If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Garrett County or Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, call Jay Ferguson of Railey Realty for all of your real estate needs! 877-563-5350