Bearly a Gala Was Really Gala

This past Saturday night, the Western Garrett County State Park Volunteers, organizers of the Garrett County Bear Tour, held their fundraising dinner and auction in the ski lodge at the Wisp Resort. It was successful in that significant dollars were raised for construction of a canopy walk in Deep Creek Lake State Park and a grand time was had by all in attendance.

Twenty carved and painted bears were sold at auction conducted by auctioneer Tom Henline. More than three hundred patrons attended along with participating volunteer artists. Prizes were awarded by drawing to patrons who had successfully completed the bear crawl which required them to visit and be logged in at every sponsoring location in the county.

Headlining the entertainment was noted bluegrass performer and bandleader, John Mackin of Pittsburgh. John was supported here by Thomas Yonke on his banjo along with grandpap Bob. It was fun to be a part of it.