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Kayaking on Deep Creek Lake

Betsy Spiker Holcomb Deep Creek Lakes Favorite Realtor
Betsy Spiker Holcomb Deep Creek Lakes Favorite Realtor

Kayaking on Deep Creek Lake

I’m not afraid to be the broken record here at Deep Creek Lake by yet again bragging about perfect temperatures here at the lake. Seriously! You can’t make this stuff up! Late summer mornings on the lake are ideal for your recreation of choice or just kick off your shoes and take a load off.

Kayaking on Deep Creek Lake
Kayaking on Deep Creek Lake

 

Here’s a thought…Go rent yourself a Kayak, find yourself a nice glassy shoreline and round up your sweetheart to go for a lazy adventure. Come on people, this is a sport that you don’t have to be a triathlon champ or a muscle head to enjoy. Gently dip your paddle in peaceful DCL and get yourself a nice chill glide going.  Take notice of the amazing views that you may have passed before too quickly on a boat. Kayaking is a great way to absorb new things around the lake that you have overlooked before. More importantly it’s a great way to calm your mind while having a delightful experience. Don’t put if off any longer. Come enjoy this special time of the year when the crowds have thinned down and the lake is perfect for this fantastic sport.

Kayaking on Deep Creek Lake
Kayaking on Deep Creek Lake

Deep Creek Lake Moon-Rise Waning Gibbous

Betsy Spiker Holcomb Deep Creek Lakes Favorite Realtor
Betsy Spiker Holcomb Deep Creek Lakes Favorite Realtor

 Deep Creek Lake Moon-Rise Waning Gibbous

For the last couple of nights here at Deep Creek Lake there has been a tremendous glow from the moon over our waters that have led to some spectacular moments to be witnessed by those who are aware. There are a total of eight phases of the Moon and last night it was in the Waning Gibbous stage. In this phase, the Moon is less than fully illuminated, but more than half. Funny though, the intensity of the Moon’s glow reveled that of the Sun. I have been woke up the last two nights at 3 am as the Moon crept over the 219 bridge casting a laser beam of light across the water, and slowly rounded over the treetops directly into my window like a blinding lamplight. I may have been half asleep but I was not dreaming as the room was illuminated in some fluorescent bluish glow stick fog that was very surreal and pleasant.

Deep Creek Lake Moon-Rise Waning Gibbous
Deep Creek Lake Moon-Rise Waning Gibbous

 

Deep Creek Lake Moon-Rise Waning Gibbous
Deep Creek Lake Moon-Rise Waning Gibbous

This beautiful spectacle is rarely witnessed to this magnitude in areas that have the glow on the streetlights and buildings. Here in Deep Creek Lake, it almost transforms a simple Moon-rise into what West Coaster’s hail as there Northern Lights show. Maybe not as brilliant but we do have mystical warm late summer evenings that take us back in time of lying on your back and staring at the billions of stars that serve as the background to the masterpiece Moon.

Deep Creek Lake Moon-Rise Waning Gibbous
Deep Creek Lake Moon-Rise Waning Gibbous

The State of Deep Creek Lake

Betsy Spiker Holcomb Deep Creek Lakes Favorite Realtor
Betsy Spiker Holcomb Deep Creek Lakes Favorite Realtor
The State of Deep Creek Lake
The State of Deep Creek Lake

 I just wanted to post this article that was written by long-time Deep Creek Lake resident Ed King in response to some negative press that has unjustly been bestowed on our healthy waters here in Garett County. Ed is one of the most loved and respected gentlemen here who has had a life long love &  passion for the lake and has devoted large amounts of positive energy looking out for the health and welfare of the area.  Ed speaks passionately against negative press that has been written and spoke by uninformed forces.

The State of

Deep Creek

 Lake

Approximately fourteen short stories have been written by me and published in “The Republican” newspaper under the above-referenced header.  Topics have included among others the Swan boat, early camps & cottages, children & pets, swimming, water skiing and even my parents’ feelings of pride when I bought my lake property “Dunwanderin” in 1965.  Presently, I am about eighty percent along in authoring a book documenting some history about famous boats on Deep Creek Lake.

Deep Creek Lake is a place I truly love.  Every morning is a joy to awake, look out across the water, and see the beautiful mature oaks and hemlocks that frame our view.  I enjoy the four seasons.  In fact, my wife, Jean, coined the phrase that’s incorporated in some of our sales media:  “Deep Creek Lake … a place for every season of your life.”

That place for every season phrase has really been true to my experience from 1933 when my parents camped along Cherry Creek, when they brought me in a baby buggy, up to the present day being the autumn of my life.  A typical summer season finds me bicycling or kayaking each morning followed by a swim.  Yes, a swim in Deep Creek Lake.  Often after a day of work I pour a glass of wine and relax by the water and may take another dip before dinner.

Each season brings with it a variety of aspects of Garrett County and Deep Creek to be enjoyed.  For example, you’ll regularly find me still water skiing and snow skiing.  Or on a winter evening I may be reading a book next to a crackling fire in the living room.  Regardless of one’s age or the time of year, there is always something wonderful about being here.

Deep Creek has matured in the past decade and in positive ways for the most part.  We now have first-run films in an 8-plex theater, several miniature golf courses, the annual arts season including performances by the Pittsburgh Symphony, four major golf courses, a county Visitor Center, the recirculating whitewater course (one of only two in the U.S.A.), and great food services.  In recognition of improvements at Wisp resort, there now is better snowmaking capability, more lifts and slopes, the renovated Wisp Resort Hotel, the mountain coaster and, the newest attraction, the Flying Squirrel zip line.  Deep Creek offers so much more than the beauty of the natural resource itself.  There is a strong infrastructure that has grown up around it.

While I cannot claim having anything to do with the creation of this lake and it’s attractions that I love so much, I have devoted the past thirty years to personally participating in the protection of the natural resource and also in the planning of county and state regulations as they relate to the lake.  I refrain from enumerating the various boards, committees, memberships and associations with which I am and have been involved.  I prefer to keep a low profile and speak out only when I feel it is necessary and then only in a positive frame of reference.

An article in the August 6, 2010, “Baltimore Sun” by Timothy B. Wheeler about Deep Creek Lake is the impetus for my speaking out now.  That article is full of “cry wolf” scare statements to which I feel compelled to set a few things straight.  First, yes, there are concerns and issues that need to be monitored and recorded to insure the long-term health of this resource.  However, to cry wolf when there is no need to do so is not the way to approach those concerns and issues.  The Property Owners’ Association of Deep Creek Lake, Inc., the State of Maryland Department of Natural Resources Policy and Review Board, the Garrett County Board of Realtors, the Chamber of Commerce and other County and State agencies are very concerned about issues such as sewage spills, fish kills, low water levels, and vegetation growing in the lake.

All of the aforementioned associations, organizations, departments and offices are working to address the issues in a responsible and professional manner.  Shame on you, “Baltimore Sun” and Mr. Wheeler, for writing such a one-sided, devastating, negative article that in fewer than two weeks has had a most detrimental impact on the Garrett County economy.  In Mr. Wheeler’s article there is mention of a forum to be held the very next day, August 7, comprised of scientists and government officials, including Mr. John Wilson, Secretary of the D.N.R., to speak on the “State of the Lake.”  To anyone’s knowledge, the “Sun” did not have a reporter attend that forum and write a follow-up article addressing all viewpoints on the issues.  The “Sun” instead chose to publish its sensationalist, attention-grabbing article titled “Residents Concerned About Deep Creek Lake’s Future.”

We who live here are all concerned about the long-term health of Deep Creek Lake.  Basically, however, the “Sun” article is one-sided, most of it negative, and representing only a few inquiries to consider opinions of others.  There were several presentations at the August 7, 2010, Forum.  No information by any presenter at that forum was indicative of an immediate problem or concern with a high level of e-coli or fishing or swimming in the lake.  Secretary John Wilson answered the question “Is the lake healthy?” with a resounding ‘yes.’  He commented further that the DNR is keeping a watchful eye on several matters.

The “Sun” article mentioned canaries in the mine.  The only gas in the mine at Deep Creek Lake is people breathing out unfounded, negative remarks.  If the “Sun” quoted from the “Friends of Deep Creek Lake,” I challenge the statement that “only renters swim in the lake.”  Not true.  Do you wonder if those people are really friends of Deep Creek Lake?  I personally swim once or twice a day and water ski every weekend in the southern lake coves along with numerous other residents.

There is no intention on my part to cover up or ignore any issues.  I love this lake and will not tolerate negativity to drive a campaign to address the issues.  In participation with responsible agencies, well-thought-out approaches are a far

better avenue to reach needed resolutions.

It was reported to me that on Sunday, August 8, a person in a canoe and thought to be Mrs. Beelar was advising renters on the shores of Hickory Ridge not to fish, eat the fish, or swim in the lake.  That was the day after officials speaking at the Forum organized by “Friends of Deep Creek Lake” gave no indication of such alarming precautions.  Are those people really friends of the lake?  I cannot stand silently by while alarmists bad-mouth the lake.

Mrs. Beelar and “Friends of Deep Creek Lake” are all people who obviously care and have done good things for the lake.  Their good deeds should not be negated by their cries-of-wolf tactics.  Rather, we ask them to go forward and continue working on the issues in a positive manner.  I, for one, shall always love Deep Creek Lake and wish for others to enjoy it as well for the long term.

Ed King

August 16, 2010

The State of Deep Creek Lake
betsy Holcomb sunrise rooster deep creek lake

Deep Creek Lake Late Summer

Betsy Spiker Holcomb Deep Creek Lakes Favorite Realtor
Betsy Spiker Holcomb Deep Creek Lakes Favorite Realtor

Deep Creek Lake Late Summer

 Mystical mornings and crystal clear afternoons have dominated the last couple of weeks here at Deep Creek Lake. Here we are in the middle of August, a month where time seems to slow down with some calculated understanding that slowing your mind down helps your senses focus on what a special time it is here on the lake. This morning the lake was blanketed in a cotton ball fog.  From our deck you could see the sun beautifully dissolving the mist revealing another super day here in Garrett County.

 

Deep Creek Lake Late Summer
Deep Creek Lake Late Summer

Lazy, late summers has a cult attraction for some visitors who understand that the traffic on the lake slowly starts to scatter after last week’s Garrett County Agricultural Fair.  Humidity is always low in Garrett County, MD in the summers, but this time of year it seems that it is nonexistent. The clarity and depth of mountain and lake views reigns supreme during the last couple of months before what I hope to be an upcoming Indian summer. Note: Indian summer is an expression given to a period of sunny, warm weather in autumn in the Northern Hemisphere, typically in late October or early November, after the leaves have turned following an onset of frost but before the first snowfall. Source Wikipedia.

Deep Creek Lake Late Summer
Deep Creek Lake Late Summer

I love the soothing lifestyle here on healthy Deep Creek Lake and intend on maximizing every minute away from work enjoying all that it has to offer here in late summer.

Deep Creek Lake Late Summer
Deep Creek Lake Late Summer

Stage Wisp Concerts

Betsy Spiker Holcomb Deep Creek Lakes Favorite Realtor
Betsy Spiker Holcomb Deep Creek Lakes Favorite Realtor

 We have a couple more weeks left to listen to relaxing outdoor music at the Stage Wisp Concerts held on Wednesdays on belly flop ski slope here at Deep Creek Lake. This is a great opportunity to bring your lawn chairs and blankets and sit down with the family and watch some great live music. Wisp has a grill fired up with a yummy picnic menu on the outside patio nearby or go inside and order some sushi (since Wednesday is always sushi night) and bring it back to the fun. You are always guaranteed a peaceful sunset and a friendly crowd to take the edge off off a stressful day and help you celebrate hump day.

Stage Wisp Concerts
Stage Wisp Concerts

 

Stage Wisp Concerts
Stage Wisp Concerts

Deep Creek Lake’s Chili Splash

 

Betsy Spiker Holcomb Deep Creek Lakes Favorite Realtor
Betsy Spiker Holcomb Deep Creek Lakes Favorite Realtor

5th Annual Deep Creek Chili Splash

Wisp Resort will be holding their infamous CHILI COOK-OFF this Saturday August 7th from Noon-5:30 pm. Come taste many different interpretations of this famous San Antonio dish dating back to 1731…yes, that’s right…Texas that is!  I have researched it and there is a misconception that chili is a Mexican dish. The history books will steer you to San Antonio, Texas where early Spanish settlers by order of King Phillips V arrived from the Spanish Canary Islands and made a spicy “Spanish” stew that later became what we now know as chili.

 

Deep Creek Lake's Chili Splash
5th Annual Deep Creek Chili Splash

 

The key ingredient to this world re-known “stew” is hot peppers and in some cases, a lot of them! Some chili enthusiasts pride themselves in preparing a chili that is nuclear hot with the hot pepper being the star. Other cooks like to layer the smokey flavors of cumin, chili powder, onion, beef, and kidney beans, with a hint of spice from the hot pepper. I believe the key to a great chili is a delicious flavor base, and for me that is a bottle of Newcastle beer.  I also like to combine ground beef, ground pork, and ground turkey with the other “regular” ingredients.  If you think you can take the heat, then bring your brave taste pallet over to the hot pepper eating contest.  Size up your hot pepper eating skills against other fire bellies.

General admission is $5 for adults, $3 Children (7-12yrs), 6 and under is free, which includes entrance to the event, Music, Children’s events and 5 tasting kits.

Cooks may contact John McCracken at 301.387.4911  ext. 2211
or email jmccracken@wispresort.com
 for information.

Here is a schedule of events
11 am Lighting of the Stoves
12 pm Gates Open
1 pm Mr. Hot Sauce & Ms. Chili Pepper
1:30 pm Salsa Turn In
2 pm Splash Contest
2:30 pm Chili Verde Turn In
3 pm Pepper Eating Contest
3:30 pm Red Chili Turn In
4 pm Wet T-Shirt Contest
5:30 pm Awards

Deep Creek Lake's Chili Splash
5th Annual Deep Creek Chili Splash

Black Bear Tavern Deep Creek Lake

Betsy Spiker Holcomb Deep Creek Lakes Favorite Realtor
Betsy Spiker Holcomb Deep Creek Lakes Favorite Realtor

Black Bear Tavern Deep Creek Lake

Black Bear Tavern Deep Creek Lake
Black Bear Tavern Deep Creek Lake

Deep Creek Lake has a lot of admired institutions that have earned the respect of patrons from all over the Mid-Atlantic. Black Bear Tavern leads the way in this department with a lively, entertaining, and fun filled atmosphere that will put you face to face socializing with happy people from many different backgrounds and hometowns.  Black Bear hosts the only nightclub here at the lake that gets cranking every weekend and keeps everybody in high spirits with a ever changing musical variety. They cover all the musical bases with rock-n-roll, funk-a-delic-disco, and country. No matter what you choose, you will be dancing on a packed dance floor with friends and strangers who will eventually become your friends.

During the warm summertime, Black Bear Tavern shifts some of the fun out on their huge outdoor patio where you can catch some rays, enjoy good food, drink your favorite beverage, and listen to some great music. There is always a daily lunch special and a huge menu to choose from. I suggest trying the crab cake dinner (The best crab cake on the lake in my opinion) with an icy cold Newcastle to wash it down. The staff will make you feel relaxed and hustle to make your experience there a good one. Take a little time off the lake or the ski slopes on your next visit and go check out Black Bear!!  Go eat, drink, dance, and make merry!!!

Black Bear Tavern Deep Creek Lake
Black Bear Tavern Deep Creek Lake
Black Bear Tavern Deep Creek Lake
Black Bear Tavern Deep Creek Lake

Deep Creek Lake Summer Season

Betsy Spiker Holcomb Deep Creek Lakes Favorite Realtor
Betsy Spiker Holcomb Deep Creek Lakes Favorite Realtor

Deep Creek Lake Summer Season

So it’s already the beginning of August and summer is chuggin’ in full swing here in Deep Creek Lake.  The summer season is progressing at a light speed pace and is teleporting us toward winter, being funneled through some out-of-control vacuum vortex of accelerated time. As we all take in the beautiful summer here in DCL there is an internal alarm clock deep within our brains that quietly starts to pulse, reminding us that summer is slowly inching toward the end of the season.

Deep Creek Lake Summer Season
Deep Creek Lake Summer Season

Deep Creek Lake always boasts a long, exhilarating summer season with special moments that are unique to our individual tastes. In the early hours, when the day is blooming, some soulful dawn patrollers set up on their favorite fishing spots waiting for that legendary hook set, or slalom skiers throwing massive rooster tails on perfect glass, or wake boarders launching huge airs across perfect early morning wake. Whatever it is that makes this lake special to you, remember to enjoy as much of it as you can before the cold weather settles in on us. Don’t panic! We still have a lot of summer left. Just a friendly reminder for you to plan your next trip, in case procrastination or work responsibilities impede on your recreational time.

Deep Creek Lake Summer Season
Dawn patrol rear view mirror.
Deep Creek Lake Summer Season
Deep Creek Lake Summer Season