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Deep Creek Lake-Hale Irwin-Lodestone Golf Caddy

Betsy Spiker Holcomb Deep Creek Lakes Favorite Realtor

Deep Creek Lake Lodestone Golf Caddy

Last year around this time I had a great opportunity to caddie for Hale Irwin when he christened the front nine at Lodestone Golf Club. I felt that I nailed it, but after the round Hale half jokingly told me I was the worst caddie he ever had in his career….Ouch!

Deep Creek Lake-Hale Irwin-Lodestone Golf Caddy — Hale and Steve Irwin

Although I have spent 24 years building golf courses, I never really had time to grasp exactly what a caddie does other than carry the bag. It was news to me that each club actually had a specific place in the bag. Go figure. My take on it was the same as when I play and I just stuff the club wherever it fits. It was news to me that I was supposed to bring a wet and dry towel to keep the clubs and golf ball clean. I had to grasp the critical caddy duties that keep the golfer focused on his game. Thankfully for me, this was a practice round and I wasn’t responsible for taking any food off the Irwin family’s table!

This year I made sure I was on my “A” game so that if I was called to duty in the caddying department I wouldn’t be smacked around for my lack of skills! I got back in the gym, got into strong physical shape and studied PGA game films of caddies who worked for the best golfers in the world. Now I felt I was ready to assume the role as super caddy!

This year it was my responsibility to caddy for Steve Irwin, who is Hale’s son. I had a wet towel ready to wipe down clubs and golf balls, and returned clubs to their proper place with scientific precision. Steve actually used a few suggestions about putting lines and shot trajectories into greens. I think Hale even had a chuckle or two about my born-again effort to be a decent golf caddy.

I have hung up my golf course construction boots for good and have happily put on the real estate cap here in Deep Creek Lake, but there will always be this feeling deep down in my heart wondering if my calling all along was to be the best caddie ever on the PGA tour!

Joyce’s Fine Jewelry

If you are a guy that has a beautiful woman that you are madly in love with and want to spend the rest of your life with & marry, you need to buy her that special ring to solidify your love. The wedding ring symbolizes the unbroken circle of eternity. The traditional diamond that sits perched on this meaningful ring dazzles women all over the world, and rightfully so. This elite sparkling gem takes around a billion years to create, give or take a few million years. So, you can understand why we hold these unique gems in such high graces; they are the ultimate romantic token of eternal love.

Now that you know you are going to pop the big question, it’s time go out and find that precious stone that symbolizes your everlasting love for your special lady. I left Deep Creek Lake for Uniontown, PA a bit clueless in the process of finding that perfect stone, and to be honest, expecting to SETTLE for something I didn’t love but hopefully she did. I visited the malls first because even though I had been advised to shop for a ring at a reputable and reliable company (Joyce’s Fine Jewelry to be more specific) I felt I still needed to see what the malls had to offer. After looking through minuscule selections of settings with the companies “premium” diamonds per se, I realized that I had made a mistake. I never really received any helpful advice or got anyone’s input other than “this would look great on her finger”, or “this is our best diamond.” It sounded like a well-rehearsed gig. Looking through the meager inventory, I didn’t see a diamond that dazzled me, and to tell you the truth even their “best” had sort of a yellow hue. But what do I know? I’m not an expert in this department. Is anyone??? The simple answer is ‘yes’.

People, THERE IS A BETTER WAY. I set sail for Joyce’s Fine Jewelry wondering how they could ease the pain of this daunting task. This is supposed to be a special experience, right…? You walk in the door and are greeted by a smiling family business that welcomes you in open arms as part of their family. Joyce and David Katzeff have put 30 years of hard work into building their impeccable reputation in providing honesty, patience, and top-of-the-line jewelry to their customers. April Sabatini sat for hours showing hundreds of amazing settings and even missed her lunch to make sure I was educated on the different styles of rings and how they are made. She had a genuine love for what she was doing and respected the fact that this was a special moment. Never did she rush me or try to “sell” me on something. April provided me her experience and patience in educating me so I was crystal clear in making MY decision.

Ok, the setting is picked and now it’s time to pick THE diamond. My mind instantly flashes back to the malls “premium” diamonds with obvious yellowish color. My mind is set to ease by Brandon Katzeff, who is the son of Joyce and David Katzeff. He sits down with a professional, knowledgeable, family smile and rings the school bell for Diamonds 101. Brandon methodically explains the 4 C’s; Color, Clarity, Cut, and Carat and the ratings associated with them so when the time comes to pick THE special diamond, YOU can pick from a first class selection of diamonds with a better understanding of these sacred gems. Joyce’s Fine Jewelry does not even sell the inferior diamonds that you see at the mall because if they did, they wouldn’t be in business for over a quarter of a century. They pride themselves in quality jewelry and excellent customer service, which leads to repeat business and referrals.

Next, the diamond’s come out and Brandon breaks out the 10x magnification eye piece to SHOW you differences in clarity, color and cut and why and how they are graded and priced the way they are. This was an amazingly fun process. I was educated so much that I mixed up all the diamonds we looked at and actually PICKED the premium diamond of the bunch. The funny thing is that all the diamonds we were given to consider were of the finest quality. The entire process is special because all of the misconceptions and distractions are eliminated, and you have the opportunity to pick with your heart. Being educated beforehand makes this process very special and the staff plays a big role in making this whole process one you will look back on with joy.

It doesn’t matter where you live in this great country, do yourself a favor during that special time in your life and visit Joyce’s Fine Jewelry. They will guide you from start to finish with warmth, experience, and a vast understanding of jewelry and customer service.

The Yummy Yacht Deep Creek Lake

As a child, we have fond memories of hearing the out-of-key chime of the ice cream truck in the vicinity of our neighborhood. I can hear Eddie Murphy now…”ICE CREAM MAN IS COMING!” in his hilarious child-like voice. Then we are off running to find mom to beg for some spare change for a bomb pop and then on our bike’s chasing the wobbly sound blaring out of some tired speaker. I’ll never forget how we would congregate all of our bikes together on those hot summer days and inhale melting ice cream until our faces and hands were covered with as much sticky sugar as our skin could absorb.

Deep Creek Lake now has a new addition to the water that will hopefully bring you and your children fond ice cream-based memories; this floating ice cream stand is known as Deep Creek Marina’s YUMMY YACHT. That’s right folks, we have an ice cream boat to bring you all your favorite flavors whenever you get the urge for something cool and refreshing out on the lake. Julie Spiker is the captain of this freezer-packing vessel and will be happy to bring your favorite treat right to your boat. Keep your keen ears open to that familiar carnival sound of the Yummy Yacht this summer and bring smiles to your children’s faces and the rest of your family while enjoying a sweet treat on a special lake.

Celebrating Independence Day Deep Creek Lake-style!

Celebrating Independence Day Deep Creek Lake-style! Fourth of July weekend brings images of a Boston Butt slow smoking on the grill, corn on the cob, pork and beans, potato salad, sweet ice tea, and of course as the day ends and it gets dark, fireworks! Deep Creek Lake’s McHenry Cove become’s a parking lot full of boats jockeying for the best view of Wisp Resort and the famous fireworks show that they annually put on. The elevated highway, Route 219/Garrett Highway, which sits across from DCL and the Wisp is littered with hundreds of cars filled with excited families who have made this fireworks show a proud tradition for Garrett County residence and folks visiting from out of town. The fireworks start at 9:15 and continue on until 9:45. Save some energy from your busy day barbecuing and pull up a chair or a boat to enjoy an American Independence Day celebration here in Patriotic Deep Creek Lake.

Hale Irwin at Deep Creek Lake

Hale Irwin at Deep Creek Lake. Wisp Resort Development, Inc. has spent a decade nurturing a dream of bringing a championship-caliber golf club to Deep Creek Lake. They upgraded the original design team and brought in Hale Irwin years ago to bring the creative eyes and experience of a 3-time U.S. Open champion. Hale Irwin will be here to play a preview round on the back nine of the new Lodestone Golf Course on July 10, 2010 with Lodestone Club members. This event will not be open to the public so make sure you check out the membership options online and join now so you can experience this fun event with Hale. Lodestone Golf Club is destined to be one of Maryland’s finest courses, not to mention the only mountaintop course in the state.

The Honi Honi Bar Deep Creek Lake

Honi Honi

Fourth of July weekend is on the radar and I can already feel the buzz of Saturday afternoons at The Honi Honi Bar at Deep Creek Lake. For all of you who have not experienced The Honi on a Saturday, put your seatbelt on tightly and get ready to blast off with THE party at Deep Creek Lake. They have a huge dock to handle the large amounts of people that travel by boat and there is also plenty of parking if you decide to travel by car. The music will put you in a trance like the pied piper and seduce you into shaking your tail feathers on the dance floor with happy go lucky locals until your howling at the moon.

This is always a family/kid friendly party with a playground arms length from the music. Kick back and order some good food, have a cool drink, and watch the band and the little ones while tapping your toes to the beat of bliss. There is over 1 plus acres of grass for your kids to run around that gently slopes down to beautiful Deep Creek Lake. Nudge your way into some competitive corn hole games, or lay out a big blanket and soak up some rays. Whatever you do, do not miss the undisputed heavyweight championship party’s happening every Saturday of the summer here at Deep Creek Lake.

Deep Creek Lake Beach Hut

Deep Creek Lake Beach Hut

Wisp Resort has set up shop at Deep Creek Lake State Park with their new Beach Hut. The Deep Creek Beach Hut has a bunch of different recreational equipment to rent while visiting DCL. Take a 1-2 hour course learning the basics about sailing then rent a Hobie Cat. Enjoy renting by the hour or if you really have a knack for sailing, rent one for the week. They also have kayaks, canoes, tubes, and paddleboards for rent. Don’t hassle your family and yourself trying to haul bulky equipment around on your vacation. Just show up with a picnic basket and your favorite cool drinks and relax at the beach and enjoy your favorite lake activity.

They also offer guided paddleboard, kayak tours if you want to explore the lake with trained professionals. The weather is perfect at the moment, so pack up the family and come de-compress here with us at Maryland’s favorite vacation destination.

Wisp Resort’s Flying Squirrel Canopy Tour-Deep Creek Lake

Wisp Resort’s Flying Squirrel Canopy Tour-Deep Creek Lake. The newest adventure activity to hit Deep Creek Lake, Maryland…a Canopy Tour attraction! I had the great opportunity to experience Wisp Resort’s Flying Squirrel Canopy Tour for myself a few weeks ago. It was a blast! There are 5 zips plus a training zip at the beginning of the course. It’s important to pay attention in the practice area and listen to all of the guides instructions, it will make your tour go smoother and safer.

Remember to bring your handheld recording device or camera to bring the experience home with you. It takes approximately 1 1/2 hours to get through the course and they can take up to 8 people and a Guide at a time. The cost is $39/pp. Happy zipping

Paddleboarding Deep Creek Lake

Paddleboarding Deep Creek Lake

Paddleboarding Deep Creek Lake. My passion for surfboard construction tipped me off to paddleboarding many years ago, as builders looked for new ways to experience the soulful glide of surf crafts. Basically, the boards were stretched out a bit longer than their modern longboard cousins and widened by about a foot around center. The curve in the bottom of the board or “rocker” dictates if it’s going to be good for paddling/speed or performance and ability to turn. At my favorite surf break at my second home in the OBX, high performance paddleboards are the norm and have been in the line-up for many years. The surfers there are taking the sport to extreme levels surfing waves in excess of 10 feet. This sport is constantly evolving and being refined by the board builders and wave-riding community.

This year paddleboarding has made its way to Deep Creek Lake. Both Deep Creek Marina and Wisp Resort rent an array of different paddleboards to suit your taste. I had my first attempt at it last night and can tell you that it is a blast. Being very tall does offer a disadvantage for balancing as you can be a little top heavy but it doesn’t take long to master it and be off on your way. I suggest starting off on both of your knees facing the front of the board until you get stabilized, then stand up at about the center of the board. I found it easier to keep your eyes on the horizon as opposed to looking down at the board, to maintain your optimum balance. Start sweeping your paddle through the water gently and you’re on your way to a peaceful glide across beautiful Deep Creek Lake. A word of warning, you are required by law to wear a life vest at all times when on a paddleboard; you can be ticketed and fined for not wearing one. Be safe and have a fun time this summer enjoying DCL’s newest craze.

Deep Creek Lake’s Got Talent

Deep Creeks Got Talent

Last year around this time I was breaking out my Taylor 810 guitar and rehearsing and little bluegrass jam that I have played through the years to get ready for my first stage appearance to support Deep Creeks Lakes one and only talent show. Lodestone Golf Club’s superintendent Scott McMillion, who is a master mandolin player, had the responsibility of painting over top of my simple bass run rhythms with some spontaneous brushstrokes of finger picking heaven

People showed up with acoustic and electric guitars, harmonicas, tap shoes, or just their best stage outfit and voice’s to impress the judges. At the end on the day it is all about raising money for the which ended with a total of $13,000. Not bad for a three hour event. This year they are also going to raise money for the Deep Creek Lake Volunteer Fire Department.

Come join us on Saturday June 19^th from 6pm-9pm for a fun filled exciting event and wonderful cause.

Tag: Deep Creek Lake Realty