Betsy's Deep Creek Lake Blog

Flying Scot #7 - Deep Creek Lake

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 09:47:02 -0700

Just off the shore at Hazelhurst - Flying Scot #7 out for a "patriotic" sail. The boat is over 50 years old and still in original condition. #7 participated in the 50th anniversary of the Flying Scot sail boats a couple years ago. Two local sailing clubs sponser races each weekend from Memorial Day thru Labor Day at the southern end of Deep Creek Lake.

Deep Creek Lake Life Perservers Real Estate and 4th of July

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Wed, 30 Jun 2010 15:14:16 -0700

This summer at Deep Creek Lake along with the rest of the state of Maryland, there is a new life preserver law in effect. This law requires that any child younger than 13 is required to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) while aboard a vessel that is underway.

For those of you with boats, the annual tradition of cruising into McHenry Cove is a great way to enjoy the fireworks over Wisp Resort. Take plenty of supplies and take your time getting to your favorite viewing spot because there will be quite a flotilla out there. Don’t forget your camera so you can share the video on our Facebook page below. Tip: It’s always best, after the show is over, to hang around a little while longer letting the boat traffic die down before making your way back to your dock.

For you Apple iPad and iPhone users, don’t forget to check out our new super cool real estate app on the right side of our website. It will work here at the lake and wherever you might be. Location based with very helpful navigation tools.

And, the latest featured listing from the Spiker Team is a charming chalet in a very tranquil setting with access to nearly thirty acres of green space, a boat slip and your very own “Blue Lagoon” swimming area: http://vt.realbiz360.com/Listing-406280.html

See you at the lake,

The Spiker Team - http://deepcreeklakeproperty.com

Concert on the Lawn - 4th of July at Deep Creek Lake

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 12:10:51 -0700

A true taste of Americana can be found on the 4th of July at Deep Creek Lake and Wisp Resort. Under the tent on the Garrett College grounds will be a true celebration of patriotism with a concert from both Garrett Community Concert Band and the Garrett Coral Society. This will be the second year featuring both local groups.

Stick around at the end of the concert - a perfect spot to view the fireworks display at Wisp Resort. Garrett Community Concert Band was formed in May of 2000. An entirely volunteer group under the skillful and patient guidance of Moe Turrentine. Members of the band are from all walks of life including businessmen, teachers, homemakers, retired band directors, high school and college students and even a few Realtors (Yes...Realtors have talent!).

Garrett Choral Society is a community chorus open to all singers. The concert season for the Choral Society includes a holiday concert in December and a Spring Concert. The society's artistic director is Julie Turrentine and the accompanist is Lynn Grimm. This year special recognition will be given to all local fire fighters, EMS personnel and law enforcement officials during the concert.

Deep Creek Lake Area Facts

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Thu, 17 Jun 2010 13:21:45 -0700

Top 10 FAQ's Regarding Deep Creek Lake, MD

1. How large is the lake?
Deep Creek Lake is Maryland's largest freshwater lake encompassing 3,900 acres with 65 miles of shoreline. Its average depth is 26.5 feet and 72 feet at its deepest.

2. What is Garrett County's elevation range?
Garrett County's average elevation is 2,300 feet above sea level. Its highest elevation, on Backbone Mt. (highest point in Maryland) is 3,360. Deep Creek Lake is around 2,455 above sea level.

3. What type of activities go on around the lake?
(Is there enough room here?). Boating, Swimming, Kayaking, Water-skiing, Alpine-skiing, Rock-climbing, Wake-boarding, Dog-sledding, Whitewater-rafting, Golf, Mountain Coaster, Hiking, Biking, X-country skiing, Snowmobiling, Fishing, Ice-skating, etc. Nearly every outdoor activity you can think of.

4. How much snow falls in the Deep Creek Lake area?
Average yearly snowfall---116" - more than Fairbanks, Alaska.

5. What is the average temperature at Deep Creek Lake?
It is consistently 10-15 degrees cooler here than in the Baltimore/Washington Metro area. The average temperature is around 68 degrees in the summer and around 30 degrees in the winter.

6. Does Garrett County have any state parks or forests?
Do we ever! We have 7 state forests and parks. Savage River State Forest is the largest in Maryland. This county has over 90,000 acres of publicly owned lands.

7. How far away is Deep Creek Lake?
Here are some distances from nearby metropolitan areas:
Baltimore-177 miles; Washington, DC.-161 miles; Pittsburgh-96 miles; Cleveland-255 miles; Philadelphia-282 miles; Richmond-224 miles; New York-355 miles.

8. What is Wisp Resort?
You haven't heard about it yet? Wisp Resort is the Mid-Atlantic's premier four-season resort. It is becoming known as "The Little Tahoe of the East." There are too many things happening at Wisp to list here: from a world-class whitewater course to the best snow-making capabilities in the world. Call for a complete update on Wisp Resort.

9. Are there any real estate investment opportunities at Deep Creek Lake?
You must be kidding??? This area is the most exciting area in the region to be looking at real estate. Where else are you going to find stunning scenery, a true four season resort area, a nearly 4000 acre lake at the bottom of an ever expanding ski resort all within 400 miles of 60% of the nation's population.

10. How soon can I get a break from my hectic life and come to Deep Creek Lake, MD?
That one's in your hands.

Float Plane on Deep Creek Lake

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Mon, 03 May 2010 14:47:43 -0700

The vegetation is really greening up here in the Deep Creek Lake area with the recent rain showers that were a welcomed sight. Nearly all of the docks are in the water now and people are taking advantage of the glassy waters before the tourist season.

My partner was able to capture video of a good sized float plane taking off from the lake around lunch time the other day. He was at Bill's rental docks gertting the picture on the fly and wishing he had a better camera, oh well. This sort of thing is normally not allowed on Deep Creek Lake but apparently this pilot had gotten prior clearance from the DNR.

Check it out:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y3f_aUEpqRw

Garrett Community Concert Band Spring Concert

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Mon, 26 Apr 2010 13:40:10 -0700

The Garrett Community Concert Band under the direction of Moe Turrentine will perform its annual spring concert this Saturday, May 1st at the autotorium at Garrett College. Performance begins at 7:30. Oh BTW the "band" is always looking for new members - my partner, Kathy Johnson, would be happy to provide you with information. Whether you are young and in great musical shape or would like to pull your instrument out of the closet and give it a try, you are welcome. She can be reached at 301 616 1226.

And as always, if you are interested in information on real estate at Deep Creek Lake or Wisp Resort, give us a call or visit www.DeepCreekLakeProperty.com

Garrett County Official Google Fiber Network

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 18:28:58 -0700

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LVqjahld-9I&feature=youtube_gdata

A great youtube video that not only makes a great argument for Google Fiber Network coming to Garrett County, but just a great argument for living/vacationing here. A ton of local support for the project! If you get a chance - take a look.

Please remember to take a look at our Deep Creek Lake web site www.DeepCreekLakeProperty.com - We've just finished a history making winter season. Skiing at Wisp Resort will conclude on Easter Sunday.

Deep Creek Lake Safety Warnings - Ice, snowmobiles and the Deep Creek Dunk

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 12:29:22 -0800

Public Safety Warning Issued for Deep Creek Lake

With the upcoming Deep Creek Dunk, the Maryland Park Service has issued the following warnings concerning use of snowmobiles on Deep Creek Lake - Please take a moment and read...Please stay safe. Believe it or not, spring will come and the ice on the lake will melt, although with another foot of snow forcast in the next 24 hours spring seems very far away.

GARRETT COUNTY - 2/16/2010

The Maryland Park Service reminds all snowmobilers of the potential for unseen safety hazards on Deep Creek Lake, particularly at night. Starting on Wednesday, February 20th, an area of ice will be removed near Uno Chicago Grill on Garrett Highway to create open water for the Special Olympics Deep Creek Dunk. This area will remain unsafe for quite some time and will be marked with reflective traffic cones.

Also be aware that lake surface conditions under bridges where road salt and abrasives are plowed from the pavement are often particularly hazardous. Other conditions that may cause unpleasant situations are unseen snowdrifts or pressure ridges that can act as ramps and cause sleds to become airborne leading to a loss of control and accidents.

Deep Creek Lake is a part of the designated ORV trail system permitting use by registered snowmobiles only. Permits are available by mail or at any of the local State Park offices during normal business hours. Snowmobiles may operate at night if equipped with working head and taillights. Access to the lake may be made at Deep Creek Lake State Park or with permission from a private landowner with a permit site adjacent to the lake.

Ice fishermen, hikers and cross-country skiers traveling on the lake should also exercise caution. The wearing of or having readily accessible life preservers could prevent a tragedy. If you encounter people, pets or wildlife that have fallen through the ice, contact either 911 or the toll free DNR Communications number 1-800-628-9944 for assistance.

For further information on ice conditions at Deep Creek Lake, contact a ranger at the Park Headquarters office (301) 387-5563 or the Discovery Center on weekends at (301) 387-7067.

Deep Creek Lake and Lots of Snow

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Tue, 16 Feb 2010 09:43:50 -0800

What an extended weekend we're wrapping up on here at Deep Creek Lake and Wisp Resort! We've had 8 inches of snow since Monday morning and another possible foot today and tonight. The State Highway Administration has our total accumulation this season, as of Monday morning, at 205". Our record seasonal snowfall is 233" which I'm fairly confident we'll blow by this year.

Below is an upcoming crazy fun event at Deep Creek Lake for the whole family and I wanted to let you know about it. It supports a great cause. Our Long and Foster office is a sponsor of "The Dunk" - If you would like to support the Special Olympics of Maryland, please follow this link.http://www.kintera.org/faf/home/default.asp?ievent=320464&lis=1&kntae320464=91D2C3E535C84533A84A6BD9146398A7&login=t

12^th Annual Deep Creek Dunk - February 27^th

Behind Uno's Chicago Grill, Deep Creek Lake. Registration, 12:00 noon; Dunk, 2:00 pm. The Annual Deep Creek Dunk is fun for both the thrill seeker & the spectator. Dunkers take a quick dip in Deep Creek Lake to benefit the athletes of Special Olympics Maryland. Coordinated by the Maryland State Police and Natural Resources Police as well as local law enforcement. $50 minimum donation to dunk. Admission to view is free. Fun for the whole family! www.dunkmd.com

Did you know we have a wonderful brief history of the forming of Deep Creek Lake on our website? Feel free to check it out. http://www.deepcreeklakeproperty.com/deepcreekhistory.asp

Spiker Team announces 2010 Support

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Sun, 17 Jan 2010 13:37:59 -0800

Each year the Spiker Team of Long and Foster Real Estate, Inc. chooses a local organization to support by donating a portion of our income directly to the organization. We are proud and happy to announce the 2010 recipient as Garrett Lakes Arts Festival (GLAF). http://www.artsandentertainment.org

The Garrett Lakes Arts Festival's (GLAF) mission is to enrich our community with high-quality performing arts and arts education. GLAF's primary purpose is to improve the quality and increase the scope of performing arts for local residents and visitors to Garrett County. They consider high-quality performing arts to consist of nationally, regionally or locally recoginized artists in the fields of dance, music and theater. This year GLAF will be celebrating 24 years.

Performances this year include The Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra Pops and Classical concerts in July as well as six time Grammy award nominee John McCutcheon in August. A complete schedule is available on the web site.

Past receipients include

Garrett County Humane Society http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/MD122.html

Garrett Memorial Hospital http://gcmh.com

And rememeber if you are visiting Wisp Resort or Deep Creek Lake, check us out at www.DeepCreekLakeProperty.com

New Years Eve at Deer Park Inn

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 14:10:08 -0800

Well - as promised - attached is the special menu for Deer Park Inn for New Years Eve.

I must admit that I am starting to feel like the "restaurant fairy".

Wishing everyone a great New Year. Hope to see you at Deer Park Inn. 301 334 2308.

New Year's Eve 2009 at the Deer Park Inn

Ginger Consomme with Lobster Ravioli

Chanterelle and Wild Rice soup

Organic Tender Greens with Fallen Cheese Souffle

Baby Spinach Leaves with Curried Dry Fruit Dressing

Salmon Fillet wrapped in Brioche with Saffron Rice and Beurre Blanc or

Petit Filet of Beef with Forest Mushrooms and Merlot Thyme Reduction

Roasted Rack of Lamb with Provencal Crust and Lemon Gremolatta

Spinach and Crabmeat Strudel with Chardonnay Sauce

~ ~

Expresso Tiramisu with Marscapone

Chocolate Creme Brulee

Brioche Pudding with Drunken Raisin and Bourbon Sauce

Champagne Cocktail

$63.50 per person

Bon Appetit and Happy New Year !!!

Christmas at Deer Park Inn

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 15:31:57 -0800

As many of you know, my favorite restaurant is Deer Park Inn (Country French)

Deer Park Inn will be open on Christmas day starting at noon. Their special menu for the day is attached

You can reach them by calling 301 334 2308. Web site is DeerParkInn.com

Deer Park Inn will also be doing a special menu for New Year's Eve starting at 6pm and a New Year's Day Brunch on Fri. Jan. 1st starting at 11am. I will forward that menu when I have it available.

Christmas 2009 at The Deer Park Inn

Appetizers

Curried Pumpkin Bisque with Maple Sabayon

Wild Mushroom Soup with Buttery Croutons

Salads

Organic Mesclun with Candied Walnuts and Caramelized Cranberries

Orange and Beet Salad with Sherry Vinaigrette

Entrees

Roasted Boneless Turkey Breast filled with Spinach and Feta Cheese $ 38.95

Confit of Duck with Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Braised Red Cabbage $ 40.95

Braised Shank of Lamb with Lemon Garlic Jus $ 40.95

Black Sesame Crusted Salmon Tournedo with Citrus Sauce $ 39.95

Spinach Crabmeat Strudel with Chardonnay Sauce $ 38.95

Desserts

Orange Creme Caramel

Cinnamon Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream

Rich Bittersweet Chocolate Pate

Brioche Bread Pudding with Bourbon Sauce

Your Entree Includes a choice From Each of the Appetizers, Salads, and Desserts

Bon Appetit and Merry Christmas !

Trains and the Holidays in Garrett County

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 11:14:37 -0800

Downtown Oakland always has one of the first and nicest signs of the holiday season approaching. Each year, at the corner of Second and Liberty Street (in the window of the First United business offices), Scott Atwill shares his extensive LGB Train (G gauge) collection and layout with the community. I saw him working on it yesterday. Sure to please young and old alike, it is a must see!

I hope you have had time to check out our web site recently www.DeepCreekLakeProperty.com . We are constantly updating and our "Hot Sheet Properties" have some great deals.

If you are interested in the history of Deep Creek Lake, I became aware of a great site on Wikipedia recently. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_Deep_Creek_Lake,_Maryland - Tons of information!!

Oakland Train Station

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 13:01:16 -0800

One of the most photographed areas in Garrett County is the Oakland Train Station. Local photographer, Jim Crabtree, worked his usual photo magic this summer on this particular photograph. A combination of 5 images, it showcases the beautiful brickwork and truly captures the personality of this grand old building. I have a copy hanging in my office. For anyone visiting Deep Creek Lake or the Wisp Ski Area, the train station is just a 20 minute drive away. By the way, prints are available. I would be happy to provide contact information or call Crabtree Photography direct at 301 334 3344. Tell him Kathy sent you.

Autumn Glory at Deep Creek Lake - Arts and Wine Festival

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 14:01:18 -0700

The Garrett County Fair is behind us, kids are back at school and what a beautiful Labor Day weekend we had at Deep Creek Lake. What amazes me is we are less than 4 weeks from our annual Autumn Glory Festival. I am always asked what my favorite time of the year is.....I have no real answer to that question, but fall can take your breath away. For details on this years festival please visit http://www.autumngloryfestival.com

A definite for this weekend at the lake is the Arts and Wine Festival held at the fairgrounds in McHenry. I along with my partners Bob Holcomb and Kathy Johnson will be pouring wine for the event. A great fund raiser for the American Red Cross. http://www.deepcreekwinefest.com I look forward to seeing you there.

Garrett County Fair at Deep Creek Lake

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 14:14:51 -0700

Growing up in Garrett County, the most wonderful time of the summer was mid August and the Garrett County Fair. Bitter sweet in a lot of ways, it was also a sure sign that school was just around the corner. This year the Fair officially starts on Saturday, August 8^th, but Monday night August 10^th thru Saturday August 15^th is the real dates for the public.

#1 at the Fair is the "World Famous Rotary French Fries" A MUST!! The Deep Creek Lions Club does a wonderful chicken barbeque every night as well. Many local organizations have "fair booths" as food vendors - They will really appreciate your support.

I hope you have a chance to visit...it really hasn't changed much in all these years.

http://www.garrettcountyfair.org/Schedule%20of%20Events2.htm

A short history I pulled from the Fair web site:

History of the Garrett County Fair

2009 marks the 53rd consecutive year that the Garrett County Agriculture Fair has provided citizens of Garrett County an opportunity to showcase exhibits, and visitors to the Fair and Garrett County an opportunity experience a relaxed, entertaining and family oriented time together.

The very first Garrett County Fair was held in the Naylor Building in Oakland in 1917. The Fair remained in Oakland through 1931. In the mid 1950's citizens gathered to reorganize the fair. In 1957 the Fair was held on the Charles Bowman property in McHenry, and has remained there for 49 consecutive years. In 1983, the Fair's Board of Directors executed the purchase of the land from Mr. Bowman, and in 2004 added an additional 14 acres to the property. A volunteer Board of Directors comprised of county residents from diverse backgrounds governs the Fair.

Each year the fair draws over 30,000 visitors and displays the work of nearly 1000 exhibitors.

Also please make sure to check out our web site DeepCreekLakeProperty.com.

The 88th Annual Western Maryland Tennis Championship

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 14:53:47 -0700

The 88^th Annual Western Maryland Tennis Championship - Calling all tennis players. Thursday August 6 thru Sunday August 9^th at the red clay courts at Mountain Lake Park is the 88th Annual Western Maryland Tennis Championships. http://www.mlptc.org/

This tournament has been played every year at the clay courts, except two years during WWII. A great tournament for amateurs and experts alike. Tennis in the mountains during the summer is wonderful. If you are not a tennis player but would like to watch some great tennis, come and watch on Saturday and Sunday. This is the oldest sanctioned tournament in the state.

The Deep Creek Lake Summer Luau at the Honi-Honi Bar, Saturday July 25^th 1:00 pm. Enjoy the best of summer with a classic pig roast, drink specials, and a one-of-a-kind "Battle of the Bands" Competition from 12-6 pm featuring Boathouse and Time Flies. www.honi-honi.com, 301.387.9100.

Please visit us at DeepCreekLakeProperty.com

Deep Creek Lake Boating Regulations.

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Fri, 15 May 2009 12:30:44 -0700

It has been a beautiful spring this year and boating season is just around the corner. I am frequently asked about boating regulations at Deep Creek Lake. I am attaching the Maryland DNR Boating regulations to this posting. Looking forward to a wonderful summer at Deep Creek.

Please check out my web site at www.DeepCreekLakeProperty.com

2009 Deep Creek Lake

Boating Fact Sheet

Vessels must be 26 feet or less in length, except pontoon boats, which may be no greater than 30 feet.

Vessels shall not be operated in excess of minimum wake speed within 100 feet of the shoreline, except to begin towing a skier from a pier or shore (vessel must immediately leave the 100 foot area).

Vessels towing a skier must remain 100 feet from all other vessels, shore, bridge, dock, or person in the water. Towlines must be no longer than 75 feet in length. Additionally, an observer at least 12 years of age must be on board the vessel.

Individuals being towed on any device must wear a life jacket. Airborne towable devices are not allowed on the lake at any time.

There must be a USCG approved, wearable life jacket (size/weight classification) for each person on board which is readily accessible.

All children under the age of seven, on a vessel less than 21 feet in length, must WEAR an approved life jacket with a flotation collar and crotch strap while underway.

PERSONAL WATERCRAFT

Personal Watercraft are restricted from use between 11 am and 4 pm on the Saturday, Sunday, and holiday of Memorial Day Weekend, and Saturdays, Sundays, and State holidays from July 1^st through Labor Day.

Personal Watercraft shall not be operated in excess of 6 knots (7.16 mph) within 100 feet of another PWC or vessel, shore, bridge, dock, or person in the water.

Personal Watercraft operators must be at least 16 years of age and possess an approved boating safety certificate.

Personal Watercraft operators and passengers must wear an approved life jacket at all times.

This fact sheet is only a summary of the boating safety laws for Deep Creek Lake.

For more information regarding the State's boating safety requirements, please visit our website at

www.dnr.maryland.gov/boating

or contact the Natural Resources Police at (301) 777-7771.

Thousand Acres At Deep Creek Lake

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 13:07:19 -0700

I would like to introduce you to a spectacular developement and community around Deep Creek Lake.

Thousand Acres at Deep Creek Lake is one of Maryland's most outstanding private residential developments. The 1,120-acre property contains some eight miles of prime lakefront shoreline surrounding gently contoured wooded terrain and spectacular mountaintop views. With the addition of a championship 18-hole golf course Thousand Acres will be one of the region's premier second home and year-round recreational communities.. Located at the southern end of Deep Creek Lake, Thousand Acres is also home to a private sailing club. If "getting away from it all" is what you are looking for, you have found it at Thousand Acres.

You can find additional community information listed on my web site www.DeepCreekLakeProperty.com

Indian Chicken Curry Recipe

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 20:05:37 -0700

I love trying new recipes and I stumbled onto one today and had to try it. It was easy and didn't take long to prepare. I have made a few subtle changes to the original recipe. I served the dish with a salad and it was great. I would appreciate any comments. The basmati rice is a must!

INDIAN CHICKEN CURRY

2 lb. chicken thighs

4 T cooking oil
1 C onions, chopped

1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 t ground cinnamon (a little on the scant side)
1/4 t ground cloves
1/2 t ground ginger
1 t salt
2 T plain yogurt
2 T tomato paste
1 sm. Jar of sliced mushrooms

1/2 t red pepper

Clean and wash the chicken and set aside. In a large, deep pan heat the oil. Add the onions and saute until golden. Add yogurt, tomato paste, garlic powder, cinnamon, cloves, ginger and salt. Let simmer on slow heat for 15 minutes, or until a thick paste has formed. Add chicken pieces and mushrooms. Let cook on medium heat for about 25 to 30 minutes. Just before end of cooking time add ½ t of red pepper (you can add up to 1 t if you like "hot").

Serve with basmati rice. I use 1 C of rice

Serves 4

Deep Creek Lake Sailing School

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 20:04:56 -0700

With summer quickly approaching our thoughts automatically turn to the lake (although it is actively snowing as I type). At the southern end of Deep Creek Lake are two sailing clubs with two fleets, Flying Scots and Lasers. These two clubs sponser several weeks of sailing instruction during June, July and August of each year. Information and schedule are on their web site http://www.saildeepcreek.com/dcss.htm

Mortgage Rate Update at Deep Creek Lake

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 12:18:19 -0700

I am attaching information I recieve routinely from Mary Lou Rohrbaugh. Interest rates still remain historically low and it is a wonderful time to be a buyer. If you, your family or a friend need real estate services, I would appreciate the opportunity to help. You can find listings for Deep Creek Lake, Wisp Resort and Garrett County at www.deepcreekproperty.com

Provided by
Mary Lou Rohrbaugh

Mary Lou Rohrbaugh
Prosperity Mortgage Company
23789 Garrett HIghway
McHenry, MD 21541
Phone: (301)387-0361
Fax: (866)359-6174
Cell Phone: 301-616-8684
E-Mail: marylou.rohrbaugh@prosperitymortgage.com

Market Comment

Mortgage bond prices fell last week applying upward pressure on mortgage interest rates. The bond market continued to come under pressure from significantly stronger stocks. The DOW shot towards the 8,000 mark despite data releases that showed continued economic weakness. Most worrisome were the many reports that indicated people continue to lose jobs. Consumers find it difficult to spend without a job or with the fear their job may be in peril. The weaker than expected consumer sentiment data provided evidence of that fear. For the week, interest rates on government and conventional loans rose by about 3/8's of a discount point.

The bond market closes early Thursday in advance of the market holiday Friday. The shortened trading week may result in mortgage interest rate volatility as traders position themselves ahead of the extended holiday weekend.

LOOKING AHEAD

Economic Indicator	Release Date & Time	Consensus Estimate	Analysis
Consumer Credit	Tuesday, April 7, 2:00 pm, et	Down $1.5 billion	Low importance. A significantly larger than expected increase may lead to lower mortgage interest rates.
Trade Data	Thursday, April 9, 8:30 am, et	$36.5 billion deficit	Important. Affects the value of the dollar. A falling deficit may strengthen the dollar and lead to lower rates.
Good Friday Holiday	Friday, April 10		Important. Shortened trading week may lead to mortgage interest rate volatility.

Credit Demand

Inflation is typically the most important focus for the mortgage interest rate market. Inflation remains a concern as the Federal Government continues to print and spend money in an effort to spur the economy. Unfortunately, mortgage interest rates also continue to be pushed around by gyrating stocks and weak demand as performance uncertainty looms and the Fed has become the primary buyer of mortgage-backed securities. Most of the recent increases in interest rates have come following stronger stocks. The Fed continues to pump billions of dollars into the market to try to keep mortgage interest rates relatively low and steady. Up until this past week they have done a pretty good job of accomplishing that task. Remember, the Fed is not the only player in the game and selling pressure continues.

The level of interest rates reflects the balance between the supply of money from investors and the demand for money by borrowers. Rising inflationary expectations and uncertainty about the performance of the debt cause investors to require higher rates of return on investments to compensate for the erosion of the principal that eventually is returned to them or the risk of non-performance. Regardless of inflation levels, though, rising economic activity can increase the demand for investors' funds, and thereby lead to higher interest rates. Investors pulling money out of bonds and into stocks have recently pressured mortgage rates.

The demand for money diminishes as the economy struggles. The Fed lowers interest rates as an incentive to businesses and consumers to increase their borrowings. The Fed hopes manufacturers will increase their investments in plants, equipment and inventories and that consumers will push housing construction along with consumer spending and with that, consumer debt.

Analysts will monitor this week's consumer credit levels. There is much debate in the financial community about the future. Economists, market analysts, and traders all seem to have a different opinion about the future state of the economy and especially whether or not we have hit the bottom of the economic slide. One thing most market participants agree on is both the bond and stock markets are going to see additional volatility. Now is a great time to take advantage of rates at the still historically favorable levels.

To unsubscribe, please hit "reply" and include unsubscribe in the subject line.

Copyright 2009. All Rights Reserved. Mortgage Market Information Services, Inc. www.ratelink.com The information contained herein is believed to be accurate, however no representation or warranties are written or implied.

MORTGAGE MARKET IN REVIEW

Newsletter-April 6th, 2009

Mary Lou Rohrbaugh
Mortgage Consultant
Prosperity Mortgage Company
23789 Garrett Highway
McHenry, MD 21541
301-387-0361 Tel
866-359-6174 Fax
301-616-8684 Cell
marylou.rohrbaugh@prosperitymortgage.com
www.marylourohrbaugh.com

McHenry Highland Festival at Deep Creek Lake

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 08:41:48 -0700

Each year at Deep Creek Lake on the first weekend in June a wonderful event occurs - McHenry Highland Festival - A weekend festival of Celtic dancing, music, games and a golf tournament.

To me the most exciting part are the concerts by the amazing Scottish Fiddler, Bonnie Rideout. I will have more information in future blogs, but mark you calendar for the June 5th weekend. Additional information is available at www.highlandfest.info

And while you are at Deep Creek Lake, check out our web site for real estate information. www.deepcreekproperty.com

Deep Creek Lake Book Club

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 08:33:12 -0700

Reading is truly my sanity and occasionally I find a book that is worth passing on to family and friends (and it makes me feel like Oprah - just a little). I would like to recommend "THE TIME TRAVELER'S WIFE" by Audrey Niffenegger. I truly had trouble putting the book down. Drop me an email and let me know what you think. betsy@betsyspiker.com

Here at Deep Creek Lake spring is on the way. Beautiful today with temperatures in the 60's

Garrett Community Concert Band Recruiting Members

Betsy Spiker Holcomb (The Spiker Team Deep Creek Lake ) — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 05:19:09 -0700

For those of you that wonder "Who is the band that plays at Garrett College at the 4th of July every year?" we are the Garrett Community Concert Band and we are actively recruiting new members. Totally volunteer, we play for the love of music. We range in age from high school kids to - well let's say we've been playing for quite awhile. The band formed in 2000. Under the direction of Moe Turrentine the band performs at least 3 concerts per year. A member of the Spiker Team, Kathy Johnson, plays with the band. So remember how much fun it used to be playing an insturment, try it again. And the next time you are at Deep Creek Lake on the 4th of July, come up to the college and see them perform. The concert is always followed by fireworks off Wisp Mountain.

For more information visit their the Garrett Community Band website

My partner, Kathy, will be happy to talk to you as well. She can be reached at k.johnson@lnf.com

Moe Turrentine, Conductor