Feb 28, 2019
The weather for today will be partly sunny, with a high near 37 and a low around 24. Snow likely, mainly between 1am and 5am. New snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches possible.
Super Secret Tip for Readers: Be sure to keep a look-out in upcoming Daily Notes columns for announcements on some nice giveaways of activities at the Wisp. We have procured some nice vouchers for snow tubing, mountain coaster rides and other attractions. We will be running a simple contest to determine winners. Stay tuned.
Need some tech help for your PC, laptop, tablet or smart phone? The Grantsville branch of the Ruth Enlow Library is offering free help this afternoon from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm. Here’s the scoop!
Did you know that each year the average American household spends $2,279 on real-estate property taxes plus another $440 for residents of the 27 states with vehicle property taxes. Well, now you know. Wonder where Maryland (or another state) falls on the spectrum? Here’s a research report by WalletHub that has the answers for you. Hint: Maryland is neither among the highest nor the lowest…
It’s Team Trivia Night this evening at Mountain State Brewing Company from 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm. Check this link out for more information.
This sounds interesting: Garrett College’s Continuing Education division is offering Local Wild, Edible & Medicinal Plants by the Season on March 5th from 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm at the Northern Outreach center in Grantsville. You will learn how to identify, harvest and prepare local, wild edible and medical plants by focusing on what is available in each season. Common poisonous plants and proper foraging practices will also be discussed. Call 301.387.3069 for more information and to register.
Since this is the last day of February, I thought I would leave you with a few bits of trivia. First, February 1865 was the only month in recorded history without a recorded full moon. I am guessing werewolves were bummed. Second, in 1827 the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad was incorporated. It was the first railroad in America offering commercial transportation of both people and freight. And, Garrett County has our own B&O Railroad Museum right in downtown Oakland.
Feb 28, 2019
For our March cover story, we wanted to highlight Western Maryland’s first and only podcast dedicated to exploring the life, history, and culture of our region. It’s called “Wildfulness,” and while the name may not be one that is easily remembered, or rolls right off the tongue, it expresses what it’s producer/creator calls “the essence of the magic of being in the mountains of Garrett and Allegany counties – the wilderness and natural beauty, the connection to an important part of our nation’s history and heritage, and the state of ‘mindfulness’ that seems to come more easily here than in a lot of other places.”
Lisa Cole began the podcast in July of 2017, and now with 46 episodes on a wide variety of topics, and two mini-grants from the Mountain Maryland Gateway to the West Heritage Area, the effort is really coming into its own. Each episode is painstakingly researched (often with the help of her history-major son), and the sound design features bits of songs, music clips, sounds, and audio clues and cues that help make it an immersive experience. Her favorite episodes include a two-part feature on The Legacy of Coal, a feature-length episode on the B&O Train Station in Oakland, the photography of Leo Beachy, the history of barn quilts, and most recently, the fascination and magic of the Cranesville Swamp, featuring an extensive interview with an environmental ecologist from the Nature Conservancy. She also produces episodes on new businesses in the area, such as the one on the Monkey Business Aerial Adventure Park. Upcoming episodes will feature maple sugaring in Western MD, springtime birding tips and tricks, and the 3-day Chautauqua event in Mountain Lake Park this July.
The recording process is the final step in a long process of planning, info gathering & researching, interviewing, scripting, sound design, etc., followed by extensive post production.
It all started when Lisa purchased a vintage, 1955, 900 sq ft cabin in Deep Creek in October of 2012, one week before Hurricane Sandy hit, and while that was not an experience she says she would like to repeat, the six and one-half year journey since then has been an amazing adventure that has brought a lot of learning, joy, and new relationships. In addition to beefing up her audio engineering skills (she was a music major in college but had some “upgrading” to do), she has become familiar with many of the local sights, sounds, and must-see features of Western Maryland, as she continuously works to share the magic of these mountains with others, through the Wildfulness podcast, “a one-stop vacation station that will connect you to these mountains and their treasures.” Listeners say they enjoy the podcast because they can listen on their earbuds while doing other activities, such as walking, working out, driving, or even house cleaning. (If you haven’t yet caught the podcast bug, here’s a great article from the Huffington Post on why you should!)
To listen to the Wildfulness podcast, subscribe through iTunes, Google Play, or any of the major podcast or music streaming platforms, like Spotify and Alexa. Detailed web-based shownotes include videos, photos and transcriptions of the audio. Lisa welcomes suggestions for episodes (you can leave a voicemail on the shownotes website) and is currently seeking sponsors as well. Currently publishing bi-weekly. Contact her via email at lisamaureencole@gmail.com.
And it all started with a humble, 1955 cabin.
Feb 27, 2019
The Garrett County Steps to Better Health Committee (STEPS) Workforce Scholarship was recently established by the Garrett College Foundation. The purpose of the scholarship is to support students pursuing a workforce related health major at Garrett College.
Pictured seating from left to right are: Cherie Krug, executive director of GC Foundation; Richard Midcap, GC president; Miranda Kessel, marketing coordinator, Garrett Regional Medical Center and treasurer of the Garrett County STEPS to Better Health (Health Fair); Stephen Putnam, director of the Community Aquatic and Recreation Complex. Back row: Julie Yoder, dean of continuing education and workforce development; Bob Stephens, Garrett County Health Officer, Garrett County Health Department and member of the Garrett County STEPS to Better Health (Health Fair).
For more information on making a gift to any fund held by the Garrett College Foundation one may visit www.garrettcollege.edu/foundation or call the Foundation office at 301-387-3131.
Feb 27, 2019
Just in time for Spring visitors traveling to Garrett County and the Deep Creek Lake, Maryland area, the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce is offering a 3-2-1 Lodging & Activity Promotion on their website, visitdeepcreek.com. The promotion runs from March 14, 2019 – May 9, 2019, non-holidays. The promotion is for 3 nights at the price of 2 plus discounted activities.
Six lodging companies – ranging from rental home properties to cabins and a slopeside hotel– are participating in the promotion. And activity offers include discounted amusement center activities, spa pedicures, transportation services, and whitewater rafting.
“The 3-2-1 Promotion is a terrific way to save on your Spring trip to the Deep Creek Lake area and Garrett County,” said Sarah Duck, Vice President of Tourism & Marketing for the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce. “With discounts on both lodging and area activities, visitors will be sure to find a discount offer to suit their vacation.”
The 3-2-1 Promotion includes lodging offers from Carmel Cove inn at Savage River Lodge, Ski Cove #3, Stillwater Haven, LLC, Taylor-Made Deep Creek Vacations & Sales, The Lodges at Sunset Village, and The Lodge at Wisp. Discounted activity offers are available from A Touch of Class Limousines, Fun Unlimited, Lake Salon and Precision Rafting Expeditions.
Garrett County, Maryland’s westernmost county, is less than a three-hour drive from the metropolitan areas of Washington DC and Baltimore, two hours from Pittsburgh, and a 45 minute drive from Morgantown, WV and Cumberland, MD. Garrett County is home to Maryland’s largest freshwater lake, Deep Creek Lake, Wisp Resort, the state’s only ski resort, and the Adventure Sports Center International, one of only two recirculating whitewater courses in the western hemisphere.
To view all of the 3-2-1 offers or more information about Garrett County, log onto visitdeepcreek.com/pages/SpringPromotion or call 888.387.5237.
Feb 27, 2019
The Garrett County Steps to Better Health Committee has announced Saturday, April 13, as the date for the next Garrett County Health Fair and Family Fun Festival. The 2019 event takes place at the CARC (Community Aquatic & Recreation Complex) at Garrett College in McHenry from 8:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.
The Garrett County Health Fair & Family Fun Festival is a free community event designed to increase health awareness and to promote the health-oriented resources for all ages which are available throughout the local community.
“Make sure you get the health fair marked on your calendar because you won’t want to miss it,” said Charles Wilt, Steps Committee Chairman. “There will absolutely be something for everyone.”
The event will include informational booths, some free health screenings, door prizes, and many other giveaways. Like Garrett County Health Fair on Facebook for up-to-date information, or visit garretthealth.org/health-fair.
The Garrett County STEPS Committee is composed of local businesses, public agencies, and private citizens, all with the desire to improve the overall wellness in the community. The fair is free to all participants and supported by generous sponsors, including Gold Sponsors: Garrett Regional Medical Center, Garrett County Health Department, Maryland Physicians Care, Mountain Laurel Medical Center, and Medical Rehabilitation Systems Physical Therapy; and Silver Sponsors: Community Aquatic & Recreation Complex, Early Care Healthy Families Garrett County Program, and Deep Creek Colon and Rectal Surgery.
Feb 27, 2019
Yesterday was cool and nice, but with some cloud cover. When I was at Wisp in the afternoon I saw some folks boarding and skiing on the slopes. Today’s weather will be mostly sunny, with a high near 48 and a low around 24. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph. A chance of rain and snow before 2am, then a chance of freezing rain. Little or no snow accumulation expected.
There are some great lake-area photo opportunities available to us in the winter months. Here’s a photo we received yesterday from Marcia C. showing the frozen lake and mountains on a brisk early morning. Thanks for sharing Marcia. Nice work!
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is now accepting public comment on the proposed 2019-2020 Migratory Game Bird Hunting Seasons. The comment period continues until noon on March 15th. This link has more information including timing for each of the respective seasons.
So, why do you live in Garrett County? Or, why do you have a second home here or visit? You can give your opinions to some questions about what makes Garrett County, Garrett County and what are some of the challenges, at this evening’s Choose Civility session at the Ruth Enlow Library, Oakland branch from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. This event is free and open to all.
There’s Team Trivia at the Greene Turtle this evening from 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm. Fun game with 20 questions for each team, which can be of any size.
Media professionals Dylan Jones and Nikki Forrester, of Highland Outdoors magazine will co-present as part of the Garrett College Adventure Sports colloquium series on Tuesday, March 5th at 6:30 pm. Their presentation will take place in Room 1013 in the Center for Adventure and Outdoor Studies (CAOS) building on the McHenry campus and will focus on the impact Adventure Sports has had on their careers, business and life. This event is open to all. Contact the Garrett College Adventure Sports office at 301.387.3330 for more information.
The Garrett County Steps to Better Health Committee has announced Saturday, April 13th, as the date for the next Garrett County Health Fair and Family Fun Festival. The 2019 event takes place at the CARC (Community Aquatic & Recreation Complex) at Garrett College in McHenry from 8:30 am until 12:30 pm that day.
Speaking of Garrett College, a number of GC students participated in the 21st annual Maryland State Police/Natural Resources Police Deep Creek Dunk this past weekend. The students raised $400 to support the athletes of Special Olympics Maryland. These are good “kids” doing good things so I wanted to recognize them here. In the first row (left to right), presenting the donation to Special Olympics Maryland are: Brandon Jackson, student activities manager at GC; Hannah Lowdermilk, Kendra Friend, Haley Lowdermilk, Sydney Friend, Alyssa Bahner, Katelyn Tasker. Back row: Trevor Byler, Jeff Abel, Special Olympics Maryland; Brian Crowder, Patrick Duggan, Seth Adams. They look cold, but they are all smiling! Thank you to the students and all the “dunkers” this weekend.
Feb 26, 2019
Yesterday was sunny and clear. Today’s weather will be partly sunny, with a high near 33 and a low around 20.
The Chamber’s Strategic Initiatives Task Force (SITF), which began in 2017, recently presented their findings to the Garrett County Commissioners. Their report included recommendations, which you can view here, on long-term vision planning, broadband, housing and even expanding the number of commissioners from three to five. Interesting stuff and appears to make sense, if it can enable effective action.
The Mountain Fresh Farmers Market in Oakland is accepting vendor applications through April 1st for the Mountain Fresh Farmers Market 2019-20 season. The next membership meeting of vendors will be held Tuesday, March 12th, at 7:00 pm at the Extension Office at 1916 Maryland Hwy, Suite A, Mt. Lake Park. Membership packets have already been mailed to those that were members in 2018.
View the new additions to our online marketplace: a dining table and chairs and a jet ski!
It’s Team Trivia Night at MoonShadow this evening from 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm. They hold a few rounds of trivia, with teams of up to six people., competing for prizes and fun. They are also running happy hour during the games with drink specials. Here’s more information.
The Mountain Maryland Tech Network (MMTN) is holding their first meetup of 2019 this evening at the Cushwa Brewery in Williamsport from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm. This Innovation and Brews event is a perfect way for technology entrepreneurs, tech-workers and want-to-be techies to meet other like-minded folks. It is free but you have to register for the event.
Here’s a link to the February Maryland State Department of Education Bulletin. It includes information on a number of initiatives and programs, including college readiness. I include it because so much of our local educational efforts and effectiveness are impacted by state-wide pronouncements and programs.
There were widespread power outages yesterday morning – check out these graphics from Allegheny Mountains Weather Facebook page:
Feb 26, 2019
Garrett Regional Medical Center’s Type 2 Diabetes Prevention Program received Full Recognition by the National Diabetes Prevention Program of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. GRMC is the only healthcare organization in western Maryland to achieve Full Recognition status by the Centers for Disease Control. Specifically, only twelve diabetes prevention programs in Maryland have received this distinction and GRMC is only one of a few fully recognized programs in the state that serves a rural population.
“Meeting all of the requirements to achieve Full Recognition by the CDC reflects our commitment to providing high-quality care in delivering our hospital’s diabetes prevention program,” said Kendra Thayer, Senior Vice President of Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Officer. “We are thrilled to be the leading benchmark for our region’s diabetes prevention programs and this achievement would not be possible without the persistence and hard work of our staff and the program’s participants.”
The national registry of recognized diabetes prevention programs consists of only CDC-recognized organizations that deliver evidence-based type 2 diabetes prevention programs in communities across the United States. These programs must use a CDC-approved curriculum that meets the duration, intensity and reporting requirements described in the Diabetes Prevention Recognition Program. The national registry consists of three categories: participating programs, preliminary recognition and full recognition. More than 1,600 programs are included in the national registry and only 379 have achieved full recognition.
GRMC’s Type 2 prevention program is designed as a structured, lifestyle program and is delivered by Mitzi Wiltison, RN and Certified Diabetes Educator, and Ruth Chisholm, Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist. The year-long program is designed for people who have prediabetes or are at risk for Type 2 diabetes. Specifically, the program’s success is primarily attributed to the supportive atmosphere and camaraderie that is developed within the classes. Participants support one another in their journey to better health by achieving shared incremental goals that include healthy eating, physical activity and weight loss.
“According to the American Diabetes Association, nearly 37 percent of Marylanders have prediabetes, and many are unaware that they have the condition. Many with prediabetes also do not understand that they can prevent or delay the onset of diabetes through education and heathy lifestyle changes,” said Mitzi Wiltison, RN, CDE. “The success of our program over the last five years truly belongs to our participants and the tremendous strides they have each made to create positive lifestyle changes and achieve better health. Looking to the future, we hope to continue to grow the program’s participation outcomes and reach more people from throughout our entire service region.”
To take an online prediabetes risk assessment, you can go to https://doihaveprediabetes.org or you may contact GRMC’s diabetes education department at 301-533-4271 to receive an assessment over the phone or by mail.
An information session for the Prevent Type 2 Program will be held on April 16 from 4:30 p..m. to 5:30 p.m. at the hospital. New classes for GRMC’s Prevent Type 2 classes will begin on Tuesday, April 30 at 4:30 p.m. Interested individuals may call 301-533-4271 to learn more.
Feb 25, 2019
We had winds gusting to over 65mph overnight and the power is out this morning. Apologies for the delay in posting today.
Today’s weather will be sunny, with a high near 29 and a low around 17. Breezy, with a west wind 23 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 45 mph.
Sarah and I have been “blown away” by the many dozens of submissions for our February “Where am I Photo Contest.” Sarah runs that particular effort but I have been peeking at responses and you folks definitely know our county! You can click here if you have not submitted your guess yet and/or if you want to learn an interesting fact about a lake-area town. Check it out even if you don’t want to guess and see if you know the little trivia piece.
It’s Spirit Night at the Oakland Dairy Queen this evening from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm. It’s a fundraiser for the local 4-H club kids. You can grab a bite of dinner, or just dessert, and help out our local children.
There will be plenty of LEGO blocks available today at the LEGO Club at the Oakland branch of the Ruth Enlow Library from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm. LEGO Club is designed for children ages four and older and features free building time with lots of building bricks. Children are encouraged to build a creation based on a new theme each month. My two cents: This is a great way to get our children engaged in creative thinking, get used to “working” with LEGOs and also to give them a leg(o) up on entry into the county’s great Lego/Robotics leagues for STEM education preparation.
If you are looking for an adult and relaxing activity, you can bring your own Needlework project to the Kitzmiller branch of the Ruth Enlow Library from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm this evening to join others engaging in needlework. Whether you enjoy crocheting, knitting, cross stitch, embroidery, or lap quilting you are welcome to join library staff and others for an hour of relaxation and fun.
To celebrate the March 2nd birthday of Dr. Seuss, the Ruth Enlow Library has planned events at several branches featuring story reading and a free Dr. Seuss book for each child. Here’s “the scoop” and please note that date and branch locations vary:
On February 26th, the Accident library will host a Seuss-themed story time at 11:00 am including coloring pages, word puzzles, and more. These activities will also be available during branch hours as a walk-in program lasting until March 8th. In addition to a free book, children will receive Seuss-themed pencils with giant erasers. For more information, contact kcecil@relib.net.
On Saturday March 2nd from 10:30 am to 11:30 am, families are invited to the Oakland library for a Dr. Seuss party. Children ages three to eight will enjoy a special reading by the Cat in the Hat, plus activities and crafts based on books by Dr. Seuss. For more information, contact julie@relib.net.
Also on March 2nd, the Grantsville library will host walk-in Dr. Seuss activities including coloring and games. For more information, contact hannah@relib.net.
The Cat in the Hat will read his story to children at the Kitzmiller branch on Tuesday March 5th at 10:30 am. Children will make a Dr. Seuss bookmark and receive a free hat and pencil as well as their free book. For more information, contact diane@relib.net.
Attention small, minority, women and veteran business owners interested in doing business with Maryland state agencies and also private companies in the Baltimore area: The Governor’s Office of Small, Minority and Women Business Affairs is sponsoring a workshop you may be interested in on February 28th in Baltimore County. Guest speaker will be Lt. Governor Boyd Rutherford. Here’s more information for you.
Here’s what frozen Deep Creek Lake looked like over the weekend thanks to @rnnr318 on Instagram:
Feb 23, 2019
Discount Duo found value in collaborative partnerships and resources
Co-owners of Discount Duo are Brian Bowers and Rob Beckman. Bowers and Beckman were awarded grand prize in the 2018 Power of Possibilities Business Plan Competition for their business concept, Discount Duo.
Five years ago, the Power of Possibilities series emerged as a means to engage entrepreneurs, business owners, and like-minded individuals in the region with a clear goal in mind – to support and enable small business formation and growth.
Over the years, perhaps the most significant result of the series has been the creation of new businesses through the business plan competition. Discount Duo, a retail store in Oakland, is the latest to join the list of up-and-coming businesses that have originated as a result of the competition.
“Our involvement in the Power of Possibilities competition reassured us that we had a good business idea and plan,” stated Brian Bowers, co-owner of Discount Duo. “It gave us the confidence to follow our dream and become entrepreneurs in our start-up venture.”
Even though Bowers, along with joint business partner Rob Beckman, already had a business concept at the time of sign-up, they quickly found the competition itself would provide essential support and added value.
“Guidance and feedback from Jodi McClintock at Garrett College and colleagues from the Garrett County Economic Development office were extremely important as we developed our business plan,” Bowers explained.
Direction would transpire in many ways for the team, including awareness of various resources that are available for aspiring entrepreneurs and future business owners.
“We utilized online tools provided by the Small Business Development Centers (SBDC),” stated Beckman. “The knowledge gained and resources we were provided with aided in the formation of crafting our business plan from start to finish.”
Both co-owners were able to experience first-hand how vital it is to conduct the right research at the right time, devote whatever time is necessary to develop a plan properly, and be conservative with assumptions and projections.
“Research is so imperative in understanding the current state of one’s industry, including the local demographics and economic climate the business will operate in,” explained Bowers. “Identifying opportunities and threats within the industry is just as important as recognizing strengths and weakness of a potential business concept.”
In addition to building a solid foundation for the business plan, Brian and Rob received key support and mentoring throughout the competition which proved to be the most vital asset.
“Even though we entered a competition, all members of the group – both participants and mentors – were very supportive and eager for each business idea to not only become a reality, but also one that would succeed,” said Beckman.
As the end of the competition came to a close, the team walked away with an unforeseen benefit.
“The experience bonded us together with other participants, mentors, and those we met through networking,” noted Bowers. “As a result, friendships developed – we were definitely not expecting this from a competition.”
Offering a variety of new quality merchandise at discount prices, Discount Duo offers brand name items in an assortment of categories, including housewares, family clothing and shoes, sporting goods, lawn and garden, pet and domestic products. Shipments of new merchandise are generally received each week.
Over the past ten months, the owners stated the gross sales for the company are approximately 23 percent above the financial projections indicated in the business plan.
“In January, we introduced snack food, cleaning and paper products, available without a club membership,” said Beckman. “We hope our latest strategic move will continue to boost sales for the first quarter of 2019.”
Registration is currently open for participants for the upcoming Power of Possibilities All In Business Plan and Competition series. For more information on the competition, contact Jodi McClintock, director of business solutions at Garrett College, at 301-387-3084 or jodi.mcclintock@garrettcollege.edu.
Feb 22, 2019
Yesterday was “the great melt!” With temperatures in the 40’s and sunny, a lot of the snow melted, but there is still a nice base at Wisp (there were folks on the tube park and slopes and even a few ice fishing on the lake). This weekend’s weather will be mostly cloudy, with a high near 40 and a low around 30. Saturday is a chance of freezing rain before 10am, then rain likely. Overall, cloudy, with temperatures holding steady near 39. Sunday will be mostly cloudy, with a high near 50 and a low of 23. Winds could gust as high as 55 mph and a slight chance of snow showers before 11pm.
The big story this weekend is the Maryland State Police Deep Creek Dunk for Special Olympics Maryland. today is preregistration and “Goosebumps, Grapes & Growlers” as well as local student dunks and tomorrow (Saturday) is “the main event” when hundreds of folks will take a dip in the (very cold) lake. And it’s all to help the 7,782 Special Olympics Maryland athletes who train and compete year-round.
If you are going to the Dunk, don’t be in a rush and get there in plenty of time. If you are traveling on 219, North or South, near Garrett 8 and Arrowhead, expect delays/congestion, especially on Saturday late morning and most of the afternoon. Above all, please be courteous! Just thought I would remind everyone, as it gets a little hectic every year around this great event.
There is a new wood stove and a set of 8 dining chairs added to the furniture section of our online marketplace – check it out!
While many of us don’t think of February as prime fishing season, there are some opportunities for some nice “hits” even during these colder months, including from some trophy-size fish. Here’s the Maryland Department of Natural Resources’ Fishing Report issued yesterday. Note that they urge caution on the current ice conditions on Deep Creek and elsewhere. There’s lots of open water!
There is a lot going on in the area this weekend, from music to sports, fundraisers and nature education, so I suggest you go to our Upcoming Events section where you will find details on all of the events, including locations, directions and event-specific details. Have fun.
Congratulations to our friend, previous Garrett County resident, and local investor: Dorothy Andreas. Her book Streamline Success: Eliminate Chaos from your Service Business is now available for purchase! Dorothy is a seasoned business leader with great insight — she has started 9 businesses over the course of her career!
It’s almost time for Military March. This is an annual promotion sponsored by Mountain State Brewing and the Chamber that provides discounts to active military members at various entities around the lake and in the county. Here’s the link to the Military March section on the Visit Deep Creek website.
Bats in the belfry? Hopefully not. But, here’s an interesting piece on squirrels in the attic (February is actually the prime season when they head to our attics) and create havoc. This piece and additional links gives some practical insight and tips. Note: Erie Insurance is not an advertiser and we do not get a commission. Just trying to help our readers out during “squirrel season!”
Finally, I thought I would share the legislative priorities of the Community Development Network of Maryland, as they are strong supporters of our Garrett County communities and have some priorities that seem to align with those of the Deep Creek Lake area. Click here for a link to their site.
Have a great weekend folks!
Feb 21, 2019
Well, we received about four inches of snow yesterday, then a few hours of sleet and some freezing rain on top of that. Lots of local organizations closed and cancelled events. Today’s weather will be mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 41 and a low around 26. West wind around 16 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.
Speaking of snow, one of 2018 contest winners, Chuck C., used his Wisp passes to hit the slopes this past weekend! Here’s a photo of him and his “gang” with smiles on their faces. Glad you all had a great time!
Deep Creek Times Contest Winners
Speaking of Skiing, Herrington Manor State Park reports good conditions on their cross county trails, with about four inches of fresh granular snow and sleet down. Rentals are available seven days a week when snow conditions are favorable. On weekdays, when the Lake House is closed, rentals are available at the Ranger Station. Rental hours are 8:30 am to 4:00 pm. For more information and to confirm conditions and if they are open, call them at 301.334.9180.
You want Coffee? Books? Even More? The Accident branch of the Ruth Enlow Library is hosting “Coffee, Books and More” this afternoon from 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm. You will be able to relax with your fellow book lovers as the librarians and others share their latest reads. You just may discover a new favorite author or book.
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) will be holding their February “Cocktails and Convos” event at MoonShadow this evening from 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm. This is as an informal get together for members and guests to meet and chat. They will also be collecting recipes for their cookbook fundraiser, so be sure to bring your favorite recipe on an index card to share and maybe be included.
Sarah and I founded and co-directed the Power of Possibilities (POP) initiative for the county and Jodi McClintock has now taken over and run with it, with continued success. Dozens of small businesses have been formed and helped by the POP effort, that includes mentoring, workshops, business plan competitions and regular conferences among other components, all designed to help build entrepreneurial spirit and success in the county. Here’s a link to an article on Discount Duo, last year’s business plan competition winner. Good stuff.
It’s Team Trivia night this evening at Mountain State Brewing Company from 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm. House prizes are awarded for first, second & third places! Check it out and their great flatbread pizzas as well.
There’s a Women’s Networking Happy Hour coming up on March 7th from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm at Black Bear Tavern in McHenry. The host is Terah Beitzel-Crawford and here is the evite with more information and registration details. It is open to all women. Sorry guys.
Here’s some research that is just a little bit different: With Mardi Gras coming up, the personal-finance website WalletHub was moved to determine the most and least sinful states (based on their criteria) and they released the report yesterday. Well, here’s a shocker, Nevada is most sinful. Wonder where Maryland (or another state) falls in the ranking? Here’s a link to the full report. They certainly utilized some interesting criteria and I will let our readers decide for themselves if they would structure the methodology differently. Happy reading.
Feb 20, 2019
As I write these Notes Tuesday evening, there is no precipitation falling. But according to forecasts, that will be changing.
The weather for today will be snow, freezing rain, and sleet before 10am, then freezing rain and sleet. High near 32. Breezy, with a southeast wind 20 to 24 mph, with gusts as high as 43 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. Total daytime ice accumulation of 0.1 to 0.3 of an inch possible. Total daytime snow and sleet accumulation of 3 to 7 inches possible.
Tonight will be rain, mainly before 2am. Temperature rising to around 43 by 3am. Breezy, with a southeast wind 14 to 20 mph becoming west after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 36 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New precipitation amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
The snow emergency plan went into effect at 0600; Garrett County Public Schools, Garrett College and the Health Department are all closed today.
Don’t forget to check our weather center throughout the day today for a multitude of current data and forecasts. We use multiple sources to provide what we think is the best “mix” of local insight for our area. Here’s the link to our weather page. Our video cams also provide a real-time visual of conditions. I hope you all stay warm and dry!
There was a local meeting held recently regarding a new post office for Bittinger. The United States Postal Service send a representative to the area to conduct a listening session to gain citizen input on potential sites. The Republican had a nice write-up on it.
Here’s a tip on TIPS: If you serve alcohol at events, this class (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) can help you learn more about maintaining a safe and responsible environment at your licensed events. In addition to gaining knowledge about the affects alcohol has on people, you can also keep updated on the legal responsibilities for servers of alcohol. The class will be held this evening at the Bloomington Fire Hall from 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm.
Also this evening at 5:30 is “A Thirst for Art” at MoonShadow, a belated “Galentines” event for ladies and girls that involves fun, painting and Camaraderie. Get more information here. And, bring a friend, sister, mom or daughter.
Garrett College is hosting the upcoming Garrett County Job Fair slated for Wednesday, April 24th from 1:00 pm. to 6:00 pm in the Garrett College CARC Gymnasium. The job fair is open to any employer expecting to hire employees within the next few months as well anyone looking for a full- or part-time position.
Here’s some sobering statistics on population decline in the state of West Virginia, as tabulated by Pew Research and reported by Generation West Virginia. Garrett County has been flat population-wise for a few years, but W.V, appears to be experiencing a downward trend. West Virginia is a beautiful state, but I think they will need a more diversified and invigorated jobs foundation to turn things around. Many don’t realize that Garrett County “has” West Virginia to the west of us, to the south of us and to the east of us, so they are an important (and good) neighbor!
Feb 19, 2019
Yesterday was overcast, cool and windy, with some flurries in the afternoon. The weather for today will be mostly sunny, with a high near 30 and a low around 23. Snow likely before 4am, then snow, possibly mixed with freezing rain and sleet. Little or no ice accumulation expected. New snow and sleet accumulation of 1 to 2 inches possible.
I hope you all had a nice, relaxing President’s Day Weekend. We sure did. The lake and environs were certainly abuzz with visitors and activities and all seemed in good spirits. While many of us look forward to warmer weather, there is still plenty of winter fun to be had around the lake. I am always enthralled when I see the the ice fishing “camps” spring-up on the ice. There has been a large concentration near the Deep Creek Lake State Park on weekends (visible from Glendale Bridge area). If you know anyone fishing (and actually catching fish!) on the ice, tell them to send us a photo and we will share with our readers.
Speaking of the Summer, I thought our readers might enjoy this fun graphic from Blue Ridge Outdoors, a great publication for outdoor enthusiasts in the region. The graphic appeared in an article on the lake about eight years ago. I uncovered it and thought I would share. Yes, that is me skiing down Wisp Mountain. Good eyes!
The Cindy’s Fund sponsored Cancer Support Group meets this evening from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm in the hospital boardroom. It is open to everyone – people with cancer, caregivers, kids, relatives, friends, anyone. They sit and vent and laugh and eat, etc. It’s very informal and comforting and open to all.
The Garrett County Board of Education will hold a Special Work Session on Monday, February 25th, to discuss the FY 2020 Operating Budget. The meeting will be held at Central Office in the Board Room. Public comment will begin at 4:00 pm after which time the Board of Education will meet in executive session until 4:55 pm. The Board of Education will reconvene for the public Special Work Session from 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm. Because this is a Work Session, times are approximate.
The Grantsville and Oakland branches of the Ruth Enlow Library will offer free one-on-one tech help with your laptop, tablet or smartphone on Thursday February 28th. An expert will help you overcome obstacles and get the most out of your device. Half-hour slots will be available at the Grantsville branch from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm and at the Oakland library from 4:00 pm -5:30 pm. Bring your own device or use the library’s computers. Please contact events@relib.net or call 301.334.3996 x0017 to request a 30-minute appointment. Here’s your chance to get some help with your new device.
The Mid-Atlantic Panel on Aquatic Invasive Species (MAPAIS) is offering a small grants competition to encourage interested groups and individuals to submit proposals for possible funding. All proposals are due in by 5:00 pm on March 11th. Here’s a link to all the details.
You can join Maryland Economic Development Association (MEDA) on March 22nd in Columbia for a one-day training session, Primer for Economic Development, that has been created to provide participants with an introduction and overview of how Maryland practices economic development. The course is designed for those who are new to economic development in Maryland and also strategic partners in collaborative industries.
Feb 19, 2019
Environmental Health Services of the Garrett County Health Department reports the first case of laboratory-confirmed rabies in the county for 2019. A raccoon, submitted from the Accident area to the Maryland Department of Health laboratory, was confirmed positive for rabies on February 8, 2019.
Earlier in the week, the property owner witnessed their two dogs with a deceased raccoon at the house. After a quick observation of the dogs, the owner determined that an altercation occurred between the raccoon and at least one of the dogs. Following the proper procedure, the owner did not come in contact with the raccoon nor did they handle the dogs within two hours of the event. Both dogs were currently vaccinated against rabies, so a booster was administered by their veterinarian.
As properly demonstrated in this event, it is important to remember if your pet is exposed to a wild animal, do not handle your pet within two hours after contact. If it is necessary to handle your pet, you need to wear protective gloves and immediately wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. If you have been bitten by a wild animal that cannot be captured or you have been exposed to an animal suspected of having rabies, seek medical treatment immediately.
Pet owners are urged to check the vaccination status of their dogs, cats, and ferrets. All dogs and cats are required, by law, to be vaccinated against rabies by four months of age and can be vaccinated as early as three months. The Garrett County Health Department will hold the first series of low-cost rabies clinics for 2019 in May. All dogs, cats, and ferrets at least three months of age are eligible for vaccination. Persons with questions regarding rabies or rabies clinics should call Environmental Health Services at 301-334-7760 or 301-895-3111 Ext. 7760.