Would you like to host a grand opening, ribbon cutting, or ground breaking ceremony? Contact Membership Development Manager, Nick Sharps: nick@garrettchamber.com or call 301-387-5237 to schedule your event.
Dockside Solutions LLC
The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce partnered with the Garrett County Department of Business Development to hold a ribbon cutting ceremony on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, celebrating the launch of Dockside Solutions, LLC — an innovative new boat shuttle service operating on Deep Creek Lake.
Connor Norman, Business Development Specialist and Chair of the Garrett County Diplomats, led the ceremony. Local dignitaries in attendance include Andrew Sargent, Senior Business Development Representative at the Maryland Department of Commerce; Kim Durst, Business Development Manager with Garrett County Business Development; Garrett County Chamber of Commerce Board member Patty Manown Mash; and Chamber President Nick Sharps.
Sargent presented Dockside Solutions owners Gabe Hidey and Jett Miller with a Secretary’s Citation recognizing the occasion. Garrett County Diplomats Ron Bittinger, Patty Manown Mash, Julie Mead, Connor Norman, and Tom Tanis also participated in the event, presenting owners Hidey and Miller with a First Dollar of Profit Certificate and assisting with the ceremonial ribbon cutting.
“On behalf of the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce I want to congratulate these ambitious young men on charting their own course through entrepreneurial waters,” said Sharps. “Here at the Visitors Center, we’ve received calls and emails requesting these specific services for years and I’m thrilled we now Dockside Solutions to direct people to. Cheers to smooth sailing and a successful first season on the lake.”
With a spacious 15-passenger pontoon boat and a knowledgeable, licensed captain at the helm, Dockside Solutions offers a safe and convenient alternative for residents and visitors alike — especially for those planning to enjoy drinks while out on the water. Whether it’s a dinner reservation, a lakeside bar hop, or simply a scenic ride across the lake, Dockside Solutions is ready to get you there.
“Today marked an exciting milestone for Dockside Solutions with our official ribbon-cutting ceremony,” said Hidey. “We are so grateful for the incredible support from our community, including Bill's Marine Service, as we launch a service dedicated to making Deep Creek Lake safer, more accessible, and more fun for everyone. At Dockside Solutions, we’re proud to offer water shuttle and captaining services — providing designated drivers so you can enjoy your day worry-free. Whether you're planning a sunset cruise, dinner outing, bar hop, or just a relaxing ride, we’re here to help you create the perfect experience on the water. We’re also thrilled to share our passion for wake surfing through DCL Wake Surf, with lessons available for all skill levels. Our mission is simple: Don’t drink and drive — float and ride.”
To book a ride:
• Visit www.docksidesolutionsdcl.com
• Call or text: 443-289-4161
• Email: docksidesolutionsdcl@gmail.com
Dockside Solutions – Ride the Lake, Not the Roads.
Market on 42
On Thursday, May 8, the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce partnered with the Garrett County Department of Business Development to hold a ribbon cutting ceremony for the Market on 42 during a Business After Hours networking event hosted by the Market’s shops.
Connor Norman, Business Development Specialist and Chair of the Garrett County Diplomats, led the ceremony. Local dignitaries attending the event include Commissioners Paul Edwards, Larry Tichnell, and Ryan Savage; Garrett County Chamber of Commerce Board members Steve Stuck, Steve Green, Kristi Newsome, Shawn Bender, Darryl Glotfelty, and Emily Tusing; and Chamber Interim President Nick Sharps. Attendees delivered words of congratulations and reflected on the inspiring revitalization taking place at the plaza.
The transformation of the plaza into the vibrant Market on 42 has been years in the making.
“It began over two years ago during a business visit to Railey Design Center when Mike and Jessie Railey shared their vision of creating a destination-style shopping and dining hub—an eclectic, community-driven space reminiscent of the Thomas Davis era,” said Norman. “At the time, building owner Nancy Railey was looking for ways to offset the costs of maintaining the largely vacant property and bring new energy and tenants into the space.”
Working closely with local entrepreneurs, Garrett County Department of Business Development helped match aspiring business owners with available storefronts in the plaza. Using a creative model, businesses were offered up to two years of free rent in exchange for building out their own spaces. The initiative gave rise to what has become a small business incubator, fostering the launch and growth of six businesses, including Wild Ember Bread, Appalachian Print Studio, OMG Relax, Meadow Mountain Hemp, Secondhand Citizen, and Harvest House.
As tenants landed in the space, the County’s business development team ensured each received continued support, from startup resources to operational guidance—creating a collaborative environment where each new venture could thrive.
“This Market represents what’s possible when you invest in local dreams and believe in renewal,” said Sharps.
Business owners from the Market’s shops spoke at the ribbon cutting ceremony, expressing their appreciation for the support and the opportunity to be part of a growing hub for local commerce.
Garrett County Diplomats Anne Davidson, Julie Mead, Connor Norman, Sarena Rodeheaver, and Kristin Skeweris assisted in the ribbon cutting.
Mountain Lake Park Shop 'n Save
On Thursday, April 10, the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce partnered with the Garrett County Department of Business Development to hold a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of Shop ‘n Save’s new store in Mountain Lake Park.
Connor Norman, Business Development Specialist and Chair of the Garrett County Diplomats, led the ceremony. Local dignitaries in attendance include Commissioners Paul Edwards, Larry Tichnell, and Ryan Savage; County Administrator Kevin Null; Mountain Lake Park Mayor Don Sincell and Accident Mayor Rich Carlson; Garrett County Chamber of Commerce Board members Ben Riegsecker, Jay Quinn, and Emily Tusing; and Chamber Interim President Nick Sharps.
A large crowd of attendees congratulated CEO Craig Phillips and his management team on the grand opening of the new store and thanked them for making such a considerable investment in the community.
“I could tell in just a few minutes talking to people that this store is important to the community members,” said Commissioner Edwards.
Mayor Sincell praised the store’s high-quality staff and remarked on the growth this grand opening represents to the area while Chamber Interim President Sharps spoke about vital role grocery stores play in the health of a community.
“I just want to say thank you for being here. We started this project 5 years ago—it’s been a long time,” said Craig. “Everybody in the state of Maryland has been great to us. All the counties, the communities, Mountain Lake Park, Oakland, any place I went we’ve always been welcome and they’ve always helped us get through whatever we had to get through.”
“We have other people looking to come to the area. We want to use the grocery store as an anchor,” Craig continued. “I hope to have another building started sometime by the end of the summer and gradually grow this.”
Garrett County Diplomats Ron Bittinger, Steve Bortz, Anne Davidson, Crystal Dayton, David Jochynek, Jared Jones, Julie Mead, Beau Neece, Connor Norman, Sarena Rodeheaver, Kristin Skeweris, Josh Slone, Tom Tannis, and Emily Tusing assisted in the ribbon cutting.
The new Shop ‘n Save store is located at 304 Weber Road, across Maryland Highway from the grocery store's original location. With 6000 more square feet and state-of-the-art refrigeration, the new store has expanded space for fresh produce, meats, seafood, and deli foods.
Sunrise Junk Busters
On Thursday, March 6, the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce partnered with the Garrett County Department of Business Development to hold a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the launch of Sunrise Sanitation’s new Junk Busters service.
Connor Norman, Business Development Specialist and Chair of the Garrett County Diplomats, led the ceremony. Local dignitaries in attendance include Commissioners Paul Edwards and Larry Tichnell, Maryland Department of Commerce Senior Business Development Representative Andrew Sargent, Garrett County Chamber of Commerce Board member Brian Schroyer, Town of Oakland Business Coordinator/Main Street Manager Valerie Stemac, and Chamber Interim President Nick Sharps.
Attendees congratulated Sunrise Sanitation’s Business Development Manager Josh Slone and Marketing Manager Kristin Britner on the launch of this valuable new service to the area. Commissioner Edwards also remarked on the recently announced relocation of Sunrise Sanitation from West Virginia and thanked them for their considerable investment in Garrett County.
Garrett County Diplomats Ron Bittinger, Anne Davidson, Julie Mead, Connor Norman, and Kristin Skeweris assisted in the ribbon cutting.
About: At Sunrise Sanitation, we're thrilled to introduce our new Junk Busters service! We make decluttering easy and stress-free by offering various junk removal solutions. Whether you're clearing out unwanted items, tackling heavy lifting projects, or dealing with construction debris, our team is ready to help. We also specialize in storage unit cleanouts, hot tub removals, home and office furniture, appliance removal, and rental property cleanouts. Our goal is to keep as much as we can out of the landfill by recycling, donating, or finding the items a new home, ensuring everything is disposed of responsibly. Let us handle the heavy lifting so you don't have to!
GRMC's Health & Wellness Center
On Friday, January 24, 2025, Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) held an official ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly renovated Health & Wellness Center located at 69 Wolf Acres Drive in Oakland. The GRMC Foundation raised $500,000 towards the behavioral health campaign.
Since opening in 2019, the demand for mental and behavioral health care and treatment at GRMC’s regional behavioral health center continued to climb. In 2023, the GRMC Foundation launched a fundraising campaign dedicated to improving behavioral health services in the Garrett County community and surrounding region.
The Foundation’s campaign sought to increase the availability of mental and behavioral health services through a significant renovation and expansion of the existing facility at Wolf Acres Drive.
“One of our goals was to bring mental and behavioral health resources to the forefront of our community and region,” said Mark Boucot, President & CEO of GRMC and Potomac Valley Hospital. “Our new facility is much better suited to serve the needs of patients in our own community and surrounding region.”
Boucot credited and thanked GRMC’s Health & Wellness team for their contributions and dedication to the redesign of the facility.
“Research shows that in order for a person to heal, they must feel safe, and Mark Boucot allowed us to tailor the details of the renovation to meet the specific needs of the population we treat, from moving walls to minimize interruptions, to creating a space large enough to hold therapy groups and educational community meetings, to choosing a paint color for the walls that would be welcoming and calming,” said Lisa Ryan, Psy.D., clinical psychologist at Health & Wellness.
Ryan added, “the resulting personalized nature of this practice sends a message to our work family and our patients that they are important and valued.”
GRMC Foundation Executive Director Emily Tusing expressed appreciation to the community for supporting the hospital’s investment in mental and behavioral health.
“On behalf of the GRMC Foundation, I want to thank our community for their incredible support and commitment to this campaign,” stated Tusing. “Support from our donors and community made this a successful campaign.”
Providing a variety of comprehensive office-based, outpatient mental health and substance abuse disorder services, GRMC’s Health & Wellness Center is staffed with clinical psychologist Lisa Ryan, Psy.D.; clinical psychiatrist Faye Lari, MD; and licensed social workers, Heather Bosley, LCSW, LCSW-C; Sara Cockerham, LCSW, LCSW-C; and Sabrina Tasker, LCSW, LCSW-C. The clinic serves the behavioral health needs of patients of all ages, from children to senior adults.
For additional information on available services at GRMC’s Health & Wellness Center, contact 301-533-2190.
Timber Rock Village Phase One
On Wednesday, October 23, the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce partnered with the Garrett County Department of Business Development to hold a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of Timber Rock Village Phase One.
Connor Norman, Business Development Specialist and Chair of the Garrett County Diplomats, led the ceremony. Local dignitaries in attendance include Commissioner Paul Edwards, Garret County Chamber of Commerce Board member Jay Quinn, and Chamber President Andrew Fike.
Attendees congratulated owners, Jodi and Joe Refosco. “Nobody’s been more active in Garrett County than Joe and Jodi Refosco over the last 10 years—whether it’s the schools, youth league sports, community events—you’ve always seen their banners, whatever business it is, you’ve always seen them there,” said Paul Edwards. “So, it’s great that we can all be out here to support them in the next endeavor so congratulations, best of luck, and if we can help you in any way let us know.”
Garrett County Diplomats Steve Bortz, Anne Davidson, David Jochynek, Karen Lockhart, Julie Mead, Connor Norman, Kristin Skeweris, and Julie Stuck presented Jodi and Joe with their First Dollar of Profit and assisted in the ribbon cutting.
“We have a long history working with vacation rentals, and we drew from that in order to offer a next-level guest experience,” said Jodi. “By curating every detail of our homes−from mattresses and linens to flooring and appliances−we have a high level of quality control. That means that guests can count on an incredible stay from start to finish.”
Timber Rock Village is a luxury, Deep Creek Lake vacation rental village located on Skipper's Point. Phase one includes nine lakefront and lake access homes with amenities like dock slips, hot tubs, and fire pits. In the future, there are plans to add more homes along with an outdoor pool, walking trails, and a fitness facility.
You can view their member listing in the Business Directory by clicking here.
206 Alder Bistro and Bar 1-Year Anniversary
On Monday, October 7, the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce partnered with the Town of Oakland and the Greater Oakland Business Association to hold a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the 1-Year anniversary of 206 Alder Bistro and Bar.
Nick Sharps, Membership Development Manager for the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce, led the ceremony. Local officials in attendance include Oakland Councilman Fred Gregg, Oakland Business Coordinator/Main Street Manager Valerie Stemac, Emily Tusing with the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, and Chamber President Andrew Fike.
“Congratulations on your first year—every year is hard in business, I think, but the first year is particularly hard so you made it through the hardest part…we’re happy that you’re here,” expressed Councilman Gregg.
“I’ve seen the events and things that you’ve been doing out in the street to benefit the fire department and all of these different things and we appreciate you being part of the community and we appreciate you on Alder Street,” said Valerie Stemac.
“It’s kind of lovely to come down some Friday nights and have a smash burger,” said Chamber President Andrew Fike. “Sincerely thank you for your commitment to downtown, to our town, our community. You’re a real part of the fabric of what we’re doing here.”
Garrett County Diplomats Anne Davidson and Emily Tusing presented owners Helga and Monique Mehring with a Certificate of Congratulations and assisted in the official ribbon cutting. Fred Gregg and Valerie Stemac gifted Helga and Monique a potted plant on behalf of the Town and GOBA.
“We love this town,” said Helga. “We were a little sad when Sipside closed and we decided, you know what, let’s try and figure something out to do…The people have been absolutely amazing in this community…The other night I looked and there were so many locals in here and so many repeat people and it just filled my heart. It was absolutely everything that I think we hoped for. So, thank you for welcoming us into this amazing little community.”
206 Alder Bistro and Bar is a vibrant lunch and happy hour bistro located in the heart of Oakland’s historic district. At 206 Alder, they blend exceptional service, a warm and inviting atmosphere, and mouth-watering food. Join them for lunch, a Scan-and-Go sandwich or salad, or a cocktail!
You can view their member listing in the Business Directory by clicking here.
Reflection House Residential Recovery Home in Oakland
On Wednesday, September 25, the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce partnered with the Garrett County Department of Business Development to hold a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of Reflection House’s residential recovery home in Oakland.
Connor Norman, Business Development Specialist and Chair of the Garrett County Diplomats, led the ceremony. Local officials in attendance include Delegate Jim Hinebaugh; County Commissioners Paul Edwards and Larry Tichnell; Grant Program Director Khalil Cutair with Maryland’s Office of Overdose Response; County Administrator Kevin Null; State’s Attorney Christian Mash; Oakland Mayor Andrew Sauder and Mountain Lake Park Mayor Don Sincell; Oakland Business Coordinator/Main Street Manager Valerie Stemac; and Emily Tusing from the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.
Delegate Jim Hinebaugh, Commissioners Paul Edwards and Larry Tichnell, Mayor Andrew Sauder, and Grant Program Director Khalil Cutair all spoke words of congratulations, gratitude, and encouragement.
“A project many, many years in the making, a lot of different hands involved in making this come to fruition…It’s just great after all the hard work from so many people to see this day actually come,” said Commissioner Paul Edwards.
“It’s a symbol of hope, resilience and opportunity. It’s a safe harbor for our fellow humans doing the hard, hard work of reclaiming their lives,” said Mayor Andrew Sauder. “May this house help build the confidence, independence, and long-term success of each resident whose journey leads them here.”
“My father grew up in this house,” said Suzette Merrick, Vice President of the Reflection House Board of Directors and owner of the property. “I’m sure my grandparents never imagined that little boy would spend his entire adult life in and out of prison, battling addiction. No one imagines that for their children but each person that struggles with this disease, and it is a disease, is someone’s child…This house used to be a party house and now it will be a place to rest and recover and rebuild lives, a place will hope will be restored.”
“This is a story that we all share,” said Reflection House President Jaimie Bell. “This residence stands right now, not when we enter people in, not a year from now, it stands right now as a beacon of hope, healing, and community for those in their recovery journey, for those loving someone in recovery, for the people who work tirelessly, tirelessly, tirelessly, both professionally and personally, to help out this mission…as we cut this ribbon let it symbolize not just the opening of a building but the opening of our hearts and our minds. Let it remind us that recovery is possible and that together we can create a community rooted in compassion and understanding.”
Garrett County Diplomats Connor Norman and Emily Tusing assisted in the official ribbon cutting.
Reflection House, is a new nonprofit organization and the first to establish recovery housing in Garrett County Maryland. As a 12-month, Level 2 residential recovery program, Reflection House provides addiction counseling services, and linkages to health and behavioral health services to women with substance use disorder in Western Maryland. Using a social enterprise model, residents receive training in life and relationship skills, job skills and real-world coping skills to support their sustained recovery.
September is National Recovery Month. National Recovery Month (Recovery Month), which started in 1989, is a national observance held every September to promote and support new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices, the nation’s strong and proud recovery community, and the dedication of service providers and communities who make recovery in all its forms possible.
You can view their member listing in the Business Directory by clicking here.
Labcorp’s New Patient Service Center in Oakland
On Thursday, September 19, the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce partnered with the Garrett County Department of Business Development to hold a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of Labcorp’s first Patience Service Center (PSC) in Oakland.
Connor Norman, Business Development Specialist and Chair of the Garrett County Diplomats, led the ceremony. Local officials in attendance include County Commissioners Paul Edwards and Larry Tichnell, County Administrator Kevin Null, Oakland Mayor Andrew Sauder and Oakland Business Coordinator/Main Street Manager Valerie Stemac.
At the ribbon-cutting, Todd Homan, Vice President and General Manager for Labcorp in Garrett County, said, “The opening of our new patient service center reflects our ongoing commitment to deliver high-quality, cost-effective laboratory testing services to communities across Maryland with the goal of improving the health and lives of those we serve.”
Garrett County Diplomats Crystal Dayton, Julie Mead and Connor Norman assisted in the official ribbon cutting.
“We are thrilled to welcome Labcorp’s new PSC to Oakland. Its presence not only expands healthcare options for our community but also adds to the economic growth of our region," said Nick Sharps, Membership Development Manager for the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce.
Located at 8000 Thayer Center in Oakland, Maryland, this new state-of-the-art facility aims to help address gaps in healthcare in Garrett County, where 29,000 residents live in medically underserved areas. The new center is staffed by skilled phlebotomists and designed to provide convenient access to a wide range of laboratory testing services. The Oakland PSC joins 108 other PSCs across Maryland, expanding Labcorp’s broader efforts to expand healthcare access in the state.
You can view their member listing in the Business Directory by clicking here.
Brewery and the Beast
On Friday, September 6, the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce partnered with the Garrett County Department of Business Development to hold a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of Brewery and the Beast in Accident.
Connor Norman, Business Development Specialist and Chair of the Garrett County Diplomats, led the ceremony. Local dignitaries in attendance include County Commissioners Paul Edwards and Larry Tichnell; Accident Mayor Richard Carlson; Andrew Sargent, the Maryland Department of Commerce’s Senior Business Development Representative for the Western Maryland region; Christy Butler, Regional Public Engagement Officer, Western Maryland for the Comptroller of Maryland; Christine Funk, Business Development Loan Officer with Tri-County Council for Western MD, Inc.; Debbie Owston, administrator of the Garrett County Board of License Commissioners; Garrett County Chamber of Commerce Board members Patty Manown Mash and Emily Tusing; and Chamber President Andrew Fike.
Attendees congratulated co-owners Craig Frazee and Brandy Wilt. Commissioner Edwards mentioned the restaurant filling a specific void and thanked Craig and Brandy for their investment in the county and more particularly in Accident. Chamber President Andrew Fike spoke to how the town’s businesses would benefit from the presence of Brewery and the Beast and vice versa.
Garrett County Diplomats Ron Bittinger, Crystal Dayton, Patty Manown Mash, Julie Mead, Connor Norman, Josh Slone, and Emily Tusing presented the owners with their First Dollar of Profit and assisted in the official ribbon cutting
Craig talked about starting off as a food truck ten years ago, setting up at different breweries and festivals. Three to four years ago they decided they wanted to have a sit-down restaurant and Brandy suggested a brewery so they went to school to learn how to brew beer. Craig mentioned the help they have received from across the county. Brandy spoke about how they saw Accident as a good home for their vision, citing the cidery and the cheese factory and all the crafting going on locally. She said that Xtreme Power Sports has welcomed them into the space and they enjoy being here. Brandy also expressed gratitude for all the people who have helped Brewery and the Beast along the way.
Located at 418 South Main Street in Accident, Maryland, Brewery and the Beast offers an inviting atmosphere where guests can savor the robust flavors of locally brewed beer alongside gourmet BBQ-inspired dishes with a focus on quality, fresh from scratch items featuring smoked meats. Follow Brewery and the Beast on Facebook for updates to the daily menu, visit their website breweryandthebeastmd.com, or call (301) 691-2739 for questions.
You can view their member listing in the Business Directory by clicking here.
Karen Lockhart
On Thursday, August 1, the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce partnered with the Garrett County Department of Business Development to hold a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of Karen Lockhart’s new private studio in Oakland. Connor Norman, Business Development Specialist and Chair of the Garrett County Diplomats, led the ceremony. Local dignitaries in attendance include Oakland Mayor Andrew Sauder and Chamber President Andrew Fike.
Attendees congratulated owner Karen and welcomed her to Garrett County. Karen spoke about her background as a nurse and her current focus on health and wellness, massage therapy and medical massage. She said that she’s comfortable working with post-operative patients and people with medical issues that other massage therapists might not be comfortable working with. She talked about the benefits of clinical hypnotherapy. Karen mentioned that she tries to offer a little bit of everything including electrolysis for permanent hair removal. “I try to make clients feel comfortable and relaxed…I always try to schedule time where clients can relax, they’re not rushed in and rushed out,” said Karen. She was very involved with giving back to the community at her location in Cumberland and encouraged attendees to reach out to her if they know of a non-profit that needs help with fundraising.
Karen Lockhart’s private studio is located at 12 South Third Street, #3, in Oakland. Originally from Northern Virginia and most recently Cumberland, Karen is happy to call Garrett County home. She is a nurse, massage therapist, esthetician, electrologist, and clinical hypnotherapist and her services include therapeutic massage, medical massage, custom facials, microneedling, chemical peels, electrolysis, hypnotherapy, waxing, lash and brow tinting, and skin treatments. Karen sees clients by appointment only. For more information visit karenlockhart.net, call (703) 431-5688, email roundhillmassage@yahoo.com, or go to facebook.com/karenesthetician.
You can view their member listing in the Business Directory by clicking here.
The North Hill Community
McHenry, MD -- On Tuesday, July 30, the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce partnered with the Garrett County Department of Business Development to hold a groundbreaking ceremony for The North Hill Community in Grantsville.
Connor Norman, Business Development Specialist and Chair of the Garrett County Diplomats, led the ceremony. Local dignitaries in attendance include Garrett County Commissioners Paul Edwards and Larry Tichnell; Grantsville Mayor Emily Newman-Edwards; Grantsville Town Council members George Edwards, Cindy Downtown, and Pamela Braskey; Robin Summerfield, field representative for Senator Ben Cardin; Garrett County Director of Planning and Community Development Steve Kelley; Garrett County Chamber of Commerce Board members Brian Schroyer and Emily Tusing; and Chamber President Andrew Fike.
Attendees congratulated owner Brad Maust and project manager Darren Schrock on commencing development. Brad thanked everyone for attending the ceremony and expressed his gratitude for the support and encouragement they have received from the very start from the commissioners and the town. He acknowledged George Edwards and what an asset he has been by providing knowledge and experience. Brad mentioned the help they received from the George C. Edwards Fund in getting the project started and how it mitigated some of the risk. He went on to give a brief overview of their plans for The North Hill Community and spoke toward their desire to use local talent to bring it to fruition. “I love this community, I grew up in this community, and I will always be in this community,” said Brad.
"The North Hill development tackles a very real housing need in our community,” said Connor Norman. “This shows the world that when we face problems in Garrett County, we come together to break ground on solutions."
Garrett County Diplomats Ron Bittinger, Connor Norman, Josh Slone, and Emily Tusing attended the ceremony to show their support. Commemorative The Chamber gifted commemorative groundbreaking jars to a number of the individuals instrumental in making the project a reality.
Nestled in the scenic northern end of Garrett County, The North Hill Community offers a vibrant and active lifestyle for those aged 55 and older. Established in 2024, the new community will feature approximately 50 single-family homes designed for comfort and modern living. House plans have either a 2-bedroom or 3-bedroom layout, walk-in closets, tastefully designed living space for relaxing and entertaining, an attached garage, with front and back walkout porches. Each is designed to ensure comfort and convenience, whether you prefer a cozy or versatile layout. For any inquiries or questions please call (301) 895-8939 or fill out the form on northhillcommunity.com.
“The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce would like to extend a special ‘Welcome and Thank You’ for the commitment being made to develop the new North Hill Community in Grantsville,” said Andrew Fike. “The effort being made by Mayor Emily Newman Edwards and the Town Council of Grantsville is especially gratifying to our business community. Being on site and being able to see the proximity of this development to the town park and local shops and restaurants makes it that much more exciting.”
You can view their member listing in the Business Directory by clicking here.
Cove Creek Lodge
On Thursday, June 27, the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce partnered with the Garrett County Department of Business Development to hold a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of Cove Creek Lodge.
Connor Norman, Business Development Specialist and Chair of the Garrett County Diplomats, led the ceremony. Local dignitaries in attendance include Garrett County Commissioner Ryan Savage; County Administrator Kevin Null; Garrett County Chamber of Commerce Board members Steve Stuck, Patty Manown Mash, and Emily Tusing; Garrett County Manager of Business Development Kim Durst; and Chamber President Andrew Fike.
Attendees congratulated owners Mark Hondru, Nick Hillebrand, Don Dobroski, and Dave Pirain and thanked them for their investment in Garrett County. Mark spoke about his own personal passion for Deep Creek Lake and how excited the owners are for the opportunity to take something so historic and iconic and transform it into a 4-star resort. According to Mark, Cove Creek Lodge’s purpose is “for every guest who comes in here, for every guest who comes to Garrett County to say, ‘Wow, I can’t wait to come back!’” He proceeded to thank a multitude of business partners, including the hotel’s rental management company, Railey Vacations.
Garrett County Diplomats Steve Bortz, Patty Manown Mash, Julie Mead, Connor Norman, Kristin Skeweris, and Emily Tusing presented the owners with their First Dollar of Profit and assisted in the official ribbon cutting
Located in the heart of Deep Creek Lake, Cove Creek Lodge is the area’s first upscale boutique hotel experience nestled in the mountains of Western Maryland. The newly renovated lodge has an ambiance inspired by luxury, nature, and comfort. A curated guest experience defined by unmatched service excellence and unique lodging atmosphere. Inhale the crisp mountain air as you enjoy our outdoor amenities and lakefront views. Let your worries fall by the wayside as you relax by the pool or get cozy by the fire with a handcrafted cocktail from The Black Antler Lounge. Whether you’re looking for a family vacation or intimate romantic getaway, Cove Creek Lodge is perfectly suited for any occasion. For more information visit Cove Creek Lodge’s website covecreekdcl.com, follow them on Facebook and Instagram, or call (301) 387-5534.
You can view their member listing in the Business Directory by clicking here.
Winner's Circle Convenience Store
On Wednesday, June 12, the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce partnered with the Garrett County Department of Business Development to hold a ribbon cutting ceremony for the grand opening of Winner’s Circle Convenience Center under new ownership.
Connor Norman, Business Development Specialist and Chair of the Garrett County Diplomats, led the ceremony. Local dignitaries in attendance include Garrett County Commissioners Paul Edwards, Larry Tichnell, and Ryan Savage; County Administrator Kevin Null; Mayor Don Sincell; Garrett County Chamber of Commerce Board members Emily Tusing; Garrett County Manager of Business Development Kim Durst; and Chamber President Andrew Fike.
Attendees congratulated co-owners Jason and Ashley Hardesty and Kristina Sanders on re-opening the community staple and thanked them for their investment. Ashley discussed their plan to offer the same things Winner’s Circle had always been known for with the addition of some new things like the Hershey’s ice cream. She also spoke about how anxious and excited they were to open Winner’s Circle back up and said they had been working on it since April. Ashley and Jason both said that the store had been packed and things had been pretty crazy since the soft opening a couple of days before the ribbon cutting ceremony.
Garrett County Diplomats Ron Bittinger, Anne Davidson, Crystal Dayton, Tracy Kelley, Connor Norman, Josh Slone, and Emily Tusing presented Jason, Ashley, and Kristina with their First Dollar of Profit and assisted in the official ribbon cutting.
Located at 401 Dave Turney Street in Mountain Lake Park, Winner’s Circle Convenience Center is a one-stop convenience store offering a variety of hot and cold food items including salads, sandwiches, fried foods, candy bars, 12 flavors of hand dipped Hershey’s ice cream, and locally famous breakfast pizza and pepperoni rolls. Beer, wine, and liquor are available for purchase as well as lottery, tobacco products, and live bait. Winner’s Circle invites customers to dine-in or enjoy outdoor seating. The Convenience Center is now open Monday through Saturday from 5:30 am to 10:00 pm and Sunday from 5:30 am to 8:00 pm. For more information follow Winner’s Circle Convenience Center on Facebook or call (240) 488-1034.
You can view their member listing in the Business Directory by clicking here.