Top Adventure Town, that has a nice ring to it and Cumberland, Maryland, earned its rank among some of the country’s very best towns in an online polling process with readers selecting Norton, Virginia, and Lewisburg, West Virginia, to round out the top three.
This is Blue Ridge Outdoors’ seventh annual Top Adventure Town contest sponsored by Blue Mountain Brewery. The contest began with 48 contenders spanning small towns to large cities. There were mountain biking meccas, paddling paradises, hiking nirvanas, and much more. Some are long established while others are quickly growing on the radar of their readers and outdoor enthusiasts everywhere. Previous contest champions were among the contenders, including Chattanooga, Tennessee, Hot Springs, North Carolina, and Franklin, North Carolina. Celebrated outdoor towns like Asheville, North Carolina, Charlottesville, Virginia, and Roanoke, Virginia, also received a hefty share of votes.
In the end, three towns came out on top with Cumberland snagging the 1st runner-up award.
“There is something to be said about the quality of life outdoor recreation brings to this region,” says Ashli Workman, director of tourism for Allegany County, Maryland. “We are honored that Cumberland’s many outdoor amenities are being recognized on a much bigger scale.”
Allegany County boasts 60,000 acres of public wildlands. Rocky Gap State Park and Green Ridge State Forest offer ample opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking/canoeing, fishing, and the ultimate setting for just taking in Mother Nature. The Great Allegheny Passage, which has received press accolades from The Washington Post to The New York Times, continues to rack up awards like Bicycling Magazine’s “Top Rail Trails Every Cyclist Should Ride,” and little local-area traffic, multiple cycling routes, and the C&O Towpath trail connector, make the region highly appealing to cyclists. The Potomac River provides fishing opportunities and day float options, while the region also boasts plenty of camping, cabin rentals and hotel options to promote outdoor recreation getaways.
“It’s exciting to see small Appalachian towns transforming themselves into popular outdoor destinations,” says Will Harlan, editor in chief of Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine. “Adventure towns are showcasing their natural beauty and abundant adventure opportunities, and folks are flocking to explore them. These towns are revolutionizing the entire region.”
The full feature is available in the November 2017 issue of Blue Ridge Outdoors.
On October 24, 2017 the Maryland State Board of Education unanimously voted to adopt proposed amendments to the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) Title 13A State Board of Education Subtitle 04 Chapter 16 Programs in Fine Arts. The revisions are aligned to the following recommendations in The Governor’s P-20 Leadership Council Arts Education in Maryland Schools Members of the State Board of Education Final Report (2014):
Recommendation A: Revise the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) to provide specific direction to local school systems in the consistent implementation of comprehensive fine arts programs in dance, music, theatre, and visual arts for all children at all grade levels.
Recommendation D: Revise the Maryland State Standards for Fine Arts Education.
Included in the regulation are revised Maryland Fine Arts Standards which now align with the National Core Arts Standards that focus on the artistic processes of creating, presenting, responding and connecting.
Notable changes in the regulation are:
1. The inclusion of prekindergarten in fine arts instruction.
2. The delineation of experiences in all art forms for students in prekindergarten – grade 5.
3. The ability for students in grades 6-8 to specialize in one or more art form.
4. The addition of Media Arts as the 5th art form as defined by the National Core Arts Standards.
5. The inclusion and formalization of the Fine Arts Education Advisory Panel to advise MSDE’s Superintendent on issues and best practices relevant to fine arts education.
This is the culmination of the collaboration of over one hundred arts education stakeholders from across the state with representation from all 24 school districts. Representatives from local school systems, arts organizations, higher education, arts administrators, arts educators and professional artists representing each of the fine arts disciplines: dance, media arts, music, theatre and visual art contributed to this outstanding work. All are to be commended for their constant commitment to ensure that 100 percent of Maryland’s students will participate in fine arts programs as part of a world class education that addresses the whole child.
The next phase of the process is the publication COMAR 13A.04.16 Programs in Fine Arts in the Maryland Register on November 13, 2017. It will become effective on November 23, 2017.
The Cumberland/Allegany County Industrial Foundation, Inc. (CACIF) and the Garrett County Development Corporation proudly host PACE. Allegany’s Jeremy Irons and Garrett’s Shawn Bender are co-chairing the 42nd PACE Reception and PACE Breakfast held in Annapolis in January. Senator George C. Edwards is actively involved with PACE every year. All the details for 2018 are posted on the website, https://www.mtmarylandpace.com.
Why PACE?
This cooperative effort of Allegany and Garrett Counties is an excellent way to showcase and advance our counties and communities. PACE strives to educate state legislators and high-ranking officials about Allegany and Garrett Counties and to present the local perspective about important short and long-term issues.
Events
The PACE Reception is Thursday evening, January 25, 2018, followed by the PACE Breakfast the next morning. Both events are held at the Loews Annapolis Hotel, 126 West Street, Annapolis.
Everyone Is Welcome
The success of Mountain Maryland PACE is dependent on the participation and financial support of local businesses, community leaders, and citizens. The general public is welcome and encouraged to attend PACE. The registration fee is all-inclusive and provides entry to both events, the reception and the breakfast, for one individual. The fee is $130. if purchased on or before Wednesday, January 3, 2018 and $150. if purchased on or after Thursday, January 4, 2018. Advance registration is required and on-line registration is available now. Registration is not available at the door.
Display at PACE!
The reception and the breakfast feature approximately 25 displays showcasing businesses, attractions, educational institutions, organizations, and other entities. The number of displays is limited and display opportunities are booking now and are available on a first-come first-serve basis. Two premier display spaces are available at an additional cost to accommodate a larger display. New for PACE 2018, the 2017 PACE sponsors will receive priority in the assignment of display spaces.
A display is a worthwhile way to highlight your entity, its purpose, and any requests or needs you may have. Displayers have the opportunity to meet and network with legislators and officials in a friendly, informal setting. Each display is given ample space and is strategically placed for maximum visibility. The display fee is $750. The display fee also provides entry to both events, the reception and the breakfast, for two individuals.
Sponsor PACE!
Sponsors help to underwrite the event costs and are utilized to host the Governor of Maryland, the members of the Governor’s Executive Council (i.e., cabinet) such as the Secretary of Commerce, the Secretary of Budget and Management, the Secretary of Transportation, and the State Superintendent of Schools, senators and delegates in the Maryland General Assembly, and state and federal officials for the PACE Reception and PACE Breakfast.
Sponsor opportunities are: Gold $1,000, Silver $500, Bronze $250, and Partner $100. All sponsors are recognized at the events, in news releases, and on the website. The gold sponsors also receive entry to both events, the reception and the breakfast, for two individuals. The silver sponsors also receive entry to the reception and the breakfast for one individual.
Contact Information
All PACE questions should be directed to Kati Kenney, T 301.707.3328, F 301.783.4065, mountainmarylandpace@gmail.com. The PACE mailing address is PO Box 3273, LaVale, MD 21504-3273.
Pickleball enthusiasts combine efforts with the Continuing Education and Workforce Development division of Garrett College to offer instruction and playing time of this rapidly growing sport. Pickleball is played at the Oakland Community Center gym (old armory) on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. beginning on November 1. The Garrett College Community Aquatic & Recreation Complex (CARC) will continue to offer play times on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. For playing times at the CARC, contact 301-387-3786 or visit online at www.gccarc.com.
Pickleball combines elements of badminton, tennis, and ping pong and is played with paddles and a plastic ball, similar to a whiffle ball. Equipment, techniques, and rules of the games will be discussed while participants experience a new way to work out and meet new people. Tennis shoes are required but all other equipment will be included.
For additional information or to register, persons may contact Garrett College Continuing Education and Workforce Development at 301-387-3069.
The Maryland Handgun Qualification (HQL) class is being offered through Continuing Education and Workforce Development at Garrett College. The class runs from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 11, at the Southern Outreach Center in Oakland.
Handgun Qualification License (HQL) training is a five-hour block of instruction which includes classroom instruction on state firearm law, home firearm safety, handgun mechanisms and operation, and a component that requires the applicant demonstrate the ability to safely fire a handgun. Unless otherwise exempt, as of October 1, 2013, a Maryland resident must possess a valid Handgun Qualification License before being allowed to purchase, rent, or receive a handgun. The classroom portion of the course will occur at Northern Outreach Center and the operation and handling demonstration will occur at a secure firing range.
These classes are being taught through Boston Hill Training by Rick Sivic who is certified by the Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification (BCI), and an NRA and Maryland State Police HQL Certified Instructor. For additional information or to register for this course, contact Garrett College Continuing Education and Workforce Development at 301-387-3069.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the terrorist attack victims in New York City today. Mike is originally from New York and is glad to be in safe, peaceful Garrett County during these crazy times.
Pickleball play and instruction will be at the Oakland Community Center gym (old armory) on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays in November from 3:00pm to 5:00pm beginning today. The CARC in McHenry will also continue to offer play times on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
Bingo night this evening to benefit HART for Animals from 6:00pm – 9:00pm, at the Mountain State Brewing Company. $5 per game benefits the HART Animal Center’s Adoption Wing. Win prizes PLUS save 30% on all flatbreads! Contact information: call 301-387-3360 or email paula@hartforanimals.org
The County Commissioners have announced the date and time for their next public meeting. It will be held November 6th at the Courthouse in Oakland.
The Maryland Handgun Qualification (HQL) class is being offered through Continuing Education and Workforce Development at Garrett College. The class runs from 9:00am until 2:00pm on Saturday, November 11, at the Southern Outreach Center in Oakland. Call 301.387.3069 for more information.
Take your medicine. Safely. Three Americans a minute call a poison control center because they’ve made a major mistake with their medication dosage or type. Plus, those with addictive “tendencies” can start out taking pain pills too often. We just heard about an innovative solution available at pharmacies all across the nation and thought we would share with our readers.
Play it loud and proud! Northern Garrett marching band placed 15th and Southern Garrett marching band placed 16th at the Atlantic Coast Championships this past Saturday. Northern scored 88.075 and Southern scored 87.450. What an awesome accomplishment for our kids!
Mountain Maryland PACE will be held again at the Loews Annapolis Hotel on January 25 and 26. PACE is an important part of making Maryland’s political leadership aware of the needs and the specific requests of Allegany and Garrett Counties.
A new video was just released sharing more about the Downtown Jubilee event that was held July 2017. This first-year event was focused on celebrating the charm of our small town Oakland, MD. It is planned again for July 6, 2018.
Garrett College in coordination with the University of Maryland Extension is sponsoring a one-session course, Rain Barrel: Build Your Own, at the College’s Northern Outreach Center in Grantsville. The class will be held on Tuesday, November 14, 2-4 p.m.
Rain barrels are great tools in your landscape to help with water conservation. Build a rain barrel and take it home and start saving water today. This course will introduce you to rain barrels and talk about some of the proper uses for water that is saved in a rain barrel.
Two options— 1) build a rain barrel to take home or 2) Help Build and then do it on your own.
The course is being instructed by Ashley Bodkins who received her B.S. degree in Agronomy from WVU and an A.A. degree in Horticulture from Potomac State College. She works for the University of Maryland Extension where she answers home horticulture questions and coordinates the Maryland Master Gardener Program for Garrett County. The University of Maryland Extension programs are open to any person and will not discriminate against anyone because of race, age, sex, color, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, religion, ancestry, national origin, marital status, genetic information, political affiliation, and gender identity or expression. Anyone with a disability that requires special assistance for participation in the program should contact the extension office at 301-334-6960.
To register for the course, contact Garrett College Continuing Education & Workforce Development at 301-387-3069. Course registration fee applies.
Santa’s elves are hard at work preparing for Garrett County’s holiday kick-off event, the Festival of Trees. To be held November 24 and 25, at the Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall on Hwy. 219 in McHenry, general admission is $5 per person, for hours of holiday fun for everyone.
Celebrating its tenth year, this cheerful, affordable family event has become a tradition for hundreds of locals, as well as visitors to the County. Benefitting the Dove Center, Garrett County’s domestic violence and sexual assault services program, the Festival of Trees was developed by their Board and Staff, to serve as the organization’s major fundraiser. Since its inception, it has raised well over $100,000, which has helped the agency to leverage State and Federal Grant funds by acting a match. The event was held at the Oakland Armory. The community’s love for the event prompted rapid growth, and soon necessitated a change in venue to the Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall, where it has been held since. A committee of volunteers with a passion for the event and the Dove Center’s mission, meets tirelessly throughout the year to plan, improve and expand it.
“It thrills me that our major fundraiser is an event that promotes positive, quality, family time, because our ultimate goal is to create happy families. The fact that the Festival offers families a place to go to enjoy safe, healthy activities together, is as gratifying to me as the event’s monetary success.”, stated Heather Hanline, Dove Center Executive Director.
The Festival has evolved to include something for everyone. Adults and children are in awe as they stroll through the forest of decorated trees, wreaths, and centerpieces donated by local designers. Hours of holiday entertainment is available through Frosty’s Funland, where children create keepsake crafts (this year’s theme is Frosty), sand art, and have their faces painted in holiday themes. Mrs. Claus’ Bakery is open both days, where children decorate Christmas cookies, often with the guidance of Mrs. Claus herself! They are then on their way to the Crazy Christmas Hair booth, where they emerge with colorful, creative styles. Several characters will make appearances throughout the day, including Santa, Mrs. Claus, Frosty, and Gingerbread man, as well as Elf and Elsa. Play with interactive Lego robotics with SuGO & Team 1629. Adults and children can get a jump on Christmas shopping, as well. Children can shop and wrap for just $1 per gift in the Elfenheim Mall. Adults can browse for hours through nearly 50 craft and artisan vendors, or purchase from the newly expanded “Buy It Now” area, which includes hundreds of quality items at great prices. They are sure to find the perfect, unique gift for that special someone.
A variety of concessions are available throughout the day, in Mrs. Claus’ kitchen, and the Kona Ice truck will be on-site, offering delicious shaved ice treats! A “Make Your Own Sundae” bar will also be available.
For a truly memorable day, families can begin with Breakfast with Santa, to be served Friday and Saturday morning at 9 am or 10 am. Breakfast with Santa requires a special $10 ticket, which then covers admission for the entire day, a full breakfast, a photo with Santa in his sleigh, and a gift from Santa. Reservations are encouraged for Breakfast with Santa, and can be made by calling 301-746-8117, or emailing sherbrad746@gmail.com. Tickets and reservations can also be made through eventbrite: (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/breakfast-with-santa-fot-2017-tickets-36664622874)
Author of the Piper the Elf series, Colleen Driscoll, will be doing a book signing during Breakfast with Santa on both days this year! She will have copies of her books at the event, but they can also be purchased on Amazon and Headline Books. Colleen grew up on a small farm in New Germany, Pennsylvania. She graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a B.S. in Med ical Technology, where she worked in the clinical laboratory setting. After marrying her husband and raising four children, Colleen began writing stories. Colleen believes that creativity can be expressed in many ways and loves that her writing entertains children and adults of all ages. She especially enjoys meeting her fans andinspiring others to write.
The grand finale of the event is Saturday evening at 6 pm, when the live auction begins. Registered bidders can relax and enjoy light refreshments and a cash bar by Dutch’s at Silver Tree, and bid on a favorite tree, wreath or centerpiece (free Garrett County delivery sponsored by Taylor-Made Deep Creek Vacations and Sales within a 30 mile radius). No buyer premium!
For more information on the event, including sponsorship and designer forms, visit www.fotgc.org. For more information about the Dove Center, visit www.gcdovecenter.org, or call 301-334-9000. Both can also be found on Facebook.
We’re grateful to our wonderful sponsors:
ANGEL: Crossroads Church,
STARS: GCC Technologies, Sorelle’s Pizza Pub, Mt. Top Tree Farm
CANDY CANES: Dutch’s at Silvertree, Taylor-Made, Inn at Deep Creek
SNOWFLAKES: Allegany Hearing and Balance, Spring Creek Outfitters, Deep Creek Marina, West Central Equipment, Nancy Jo Fratz/Railey Realty, CCS Computer Services, Lakeside Creamery, Website Design & Management:David Lantz & Robyn Billings, CCS Computer Services
MISTLETOE: Lake Front/CLS Printing, The Republican News, Deep Creek Times, Little Mountain Distributors, Deer Park Signs
also be purchased on Amazon and Headline Books. Colleen grew up on a small farm in New Germany, Pennsylvania. She graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a B.S. in Med ical Technology, where she worked in the clinical laboratory setting. After marrying her husband and raising four children, Colleen began writing stories. Colleen believes that creativity can be expressed in many ways and loves that her writing entertains children and adults of all ages. She especially enjoys meeting her fans andinspiring others to write.