May 12, 2020
Yesterday was cool, blustery and we had snow showers much of the day. Today will have widespread frost before 8:00 am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 47 degrees. There will also be areas of frost after 3:00 am. Otherwise, partly cloudy, with a low around 32. West wind 6 to 11 mph becoming light after midnight.
I love this photo from reader Matt Dugan. Great job and many thanks for sharing Matt.
May Moon
The Commissioners are holding their next public meeting a week from today on May 19th at 4:00 pm. The meeting will be Live-Streamed at https://www.facebook.com/garrettcountygovernment/ For more information please click here.
As a few readers pointed out, the message I posted from POA of Deep Creek Lake needed some clarification. Bob Sutton of the POA must have agreed, as they sent out this update yesterday, with input from Commissioner Paul Edwards. Here it is, again verbatim from their latest communication:
In connection with the announcement of the Order, Governor Hogan stated that people traveling into Maryland from anywhere outside of Maryland are required to self-quarantine for 14 days. Interpretive Guidance COVID19-08, which the Office of Legal Counsel issued on March 30, 2020, clarifies that the requirement for travelers into Maryland to self-quarantine does not apply to people who regularly commute into Maryland from an adjacent state or the District of Columbia or vice versa, or to people transiting through Maryland who have only minimal contact with Maryland (i.e., only stopping for fuel, food, or other necessary supplies, not making contact with anyone for more than three minutes at a distance of less than six feet). Commuters must follow federal and state health department guidance regarding self-quarantining (for example, because of recent travel to the New York/Tri-State area) even if not required to self-quarantine under the new Maryland requirement.
A fairly lean news day folks…
May 11, 2020
The weather over the weekend included sun, clounds, snow and rain, with Friday and Saturday having some serious wind gusts at times. Here’s a photo from my front porch Friday afternoon:
Friday Afternoon Snow
After a warmer and sunny Sunday, the weather for today will be cooler and hold a chance of rain and snow showers before 1:00 pm, then a chance of rain showers, with a high near 40 degrees. West wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph. There’s a chance of snow showers in the evening, with a low around 31.
Even with the cooler temperatures and staying pretty much at home the last two months, my wife and I still do carry-out once a week or so. And Saturday, we wanted some great Italian food, and that means Brenda’s Pizzeria. Here’s an “action photo” of the carry-out team (and my order ready to go) as I was ready to take the goodies home for us. We had chicken parm and eggplant parm, which not only tasted great but got us thinking of the simple pleasure of dinner out, hopefully in the near future. Can’t wait to get back to “normal.” Thanks to Brenda, JB, Jeanne and the whole team for offering carry-out during these crazy times!
Saturday Night Carryout at Brenda’s Pizzeria
Don’t forget that us locals (and second homeowners and visitors) need to support our local small businesses. Here’s the link to our shopping and food establishments, many of which are open (and/or online) during the pandemic. Please check out the list and support our community! Thanks.
And, along those lines, here’s a very positive piece on Deep Creek Lake by the NBC affiliate in Washington DC. Looks like Railey, Wisp and a lot of other local enterprises have a good plan and are ready to open. Check it out!
Even as we plan for better times, Maryland officials reported Sunday that the state has confirmed 1,053 new cases of COVID-19, which brings the total for Maryland to 32,587 known cases. Twenty-eight more people died due to complications from the illness since Saturday, bringing the state total up to 1,538 fatalities.
The Chamber is hosting a member webinar on Wednesday, May 13th, at 9:00 am on Understanding the Employee Retention Tax Credit and Work Share Unemployment Programs. While most of the disaster loan and grant programs are close to maxed out, these two programs could provide additional financial assistance for your business. The webinar is free to attend but registration is required. REGISTER HERE to receive the link or contact Holly Lane at 301.387.6171 or holly@garrettchamber.com.
Bob Sutton of the Deep Creek Lake Property Owners Association sent out a reminder and nice summary of the Governor’s order that went into effect last week. I know we have reported on it, but it is important, so here’s the POA’s summary, pretty much verbatim for your reference and review (and see below for a nice photo of the result at the lake):
“As of 7:00 am May 7th, 2020 Governor Hogan lifted the recreational boating ban for Maryland. The following link gives additional information: Click Here. A summary of the current rules are:
BOATING
Recreational boating activities, including motorized and non-motorized vessels and personal watercraft, are permitted, however:
• Boaters must be with immediate family members or people with which they reside. o No more than 10 people can be on a boat at one time, including captain and crew.
• Boats must be distanced from each other by at least 10 feet and are prohibited from rafting up, beaching, or having rendezvous events.
o Boats are prohibited from docking at restaurants or bars. Marinas can reopen to recreational boaters, but must adhere to Maryland Departments of Commerce and Health guidelines.
BEACHES
The state park beach will be opened and outdoor exercise such as walking, jogging, running, swimming, and fishing will be permitted, however:
• Guidance on social distancing must be followed.
• The prohibition on social gatherings must be strictly followed. Chairs, blankets, and picnics will be prohibited.
CAMPING
DNR will begin accepting reservations for overnight tent and RV camping in state forests, parks, and other campgrounds, however:
• Campers must be with immediate family members or people with which they reside.
• Guidance on social distancing must be followed.
• No parties or reservations for more than 10 people will be granted for any one site.
FISHING
Recreational fishing activities, including catch-and-release, are allowed, however:
• When fishing from a boat, one must be with immediate family members or people with which they reside.
o No more than 10 people may be on a boat at one time, including captain and crew.
• When fishing from onshore or at a dock social distancing guidelines must be followed.
• Fishing tournaments remain prohibited at this time.
IMPORTANT—The Maryland stay-at-home order remains in effect. If folks come to Garrett County from elsewhere in the State, they are still expected to self-isolate for 14 days in order to prevent spread of the COVID19 virus.”
Finally, here’s a nice photo as submitted by Tammy Cross, of a happy young fisherman and his catch taking advantage of the restrictions being lifted. Nice photo and nice job young man! Better times and a great summer season are on the way! I feel it coming…
First Catch of the Season!
Have a great Monday folks!
May 8, 2020
The weather today will be rain. High near 47 and low around 22. West wind 11 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph. Tonight rain and snow showers likely before 2am; little or no snow accumulation expected. Saturday will be partly sunny with a high near 37 and a low around 30. West wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Sunday will be mostly sunny with a high near 52 and a low around 36. West wind around 10 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.
“A new coat may be the perfect Mother’s Day gift this year as temperatures in several major cities across the United States will dip lower than those that were recorded on Christmas Day.”
I’d like to start by wishing the best mother in the universe a Happy Mother’s Day! I love you!
Jim Chason sent us this one! Very cool:
Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan vetoed several significant bills that lawmakers passed during an abbreviated legislative session this year. Here’s a quick list of those bills that were vetoed: Kirwan Commission Reforms, HBCUs, New Taxes on Tobacco, Nicotine and Digital Ads, Adding Sales Tax on Digital Downloads, New Baltimore Crime Resources, New Checks on Long guns, Prescription Drug Review Board and Funding for the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra.
A new secure drop box has been installed at the front entrance of the courthouse. The box will easily receive a legal-sized deed (8 ½ x 14) from the attorney/title company offices. Also, any payment or paperwork can be dropped in the box.
Many local voters have already received their ballots for the June 2 primary election (I received mine!). Here’s more info: https://www.garrettcounty.org/news/2020/05/-june-2-2020-primary-election-voting-information.
Governor Hogan has modified a few orders that are relevant to folks in the Deep Creek Lake area for boating, beaches, camping, and fishing. Thanks to the Friends of Deep Creek Lake for sharing the details
IMPORTANT—The Maryland stay-at-home order remains in effect.
If folks come to Garrett County from outside the state, they are expected to self-isolate for 14 days in order to prevent the spread of the COVID19 virus.
EPA Region III (Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and D.C.) has recently received funds to perform Targeted Brownfields Assessments (TBAs), and they are currently seeking candidates.
Enjoy your weekend and say hi to your moms from me! 🙂
May 7, 2020
The weather today will be sunny, with a high near 54 and a low around 37. West wind 10 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph.
Have you read the latest Cover Story? Our Garrett County community is amazing!
Governor Hogan yesterday announced that there were “Permitted Outdoor Activities” such as outdoor exercise activities (walking, hiking, running, biking, or individual and small group sports such as golfing, tennis, and similar activities); outdoor fitness instruction; recreational fishing, hunting, shooting, and archery; recreational boating; horseback riding; and vi. visiting cemeteries.
These activities MUST BE DONE IN COMPLIANCE with the rest of his orders.
It looks like there will be a “new normal” developing here in Garrett County (and the rest of the world) and we will work hard to keep you updated with specifics.
The Town of Friendsville is holding a spring cleanup for all residents:
BlackBear Tavern & Restaurant is holding their weekly photo contest — winner of a $50 gift card will be chosen!
The Manor Steakhouse is kicking off their takeout specials tonight!
* Seafood Lasagna with Garlic Bread -$15.00
* Mini Meatloaf with Mashed Potatoes & Gravy – $12.00
* Grilled Chicken Dinner Salad – $13.00
* New York Strip Steak with Baked Potato & Vegetable Medley – $21.00
* Chicken Parmesan over Angel Hair Pasta – $16.00
May 6, 2020
COVER STORY – Deep Creek Times May, 2020
Garrett County Community Coming Together to Help its Own
Note: This Cover Story is adapted from a press release issued by the Garrett County Joint Information Center Team, as well as photos from and interviews with, local volunteers and others in the community. Edited by Mike Tumbarello.
We have been relatively fortunate to-date as a community. While the disruptions to our lives and our way of life have been significant, and many institutions and individuals are impacted, we are blessed to have only five known COVID-19 cases to-date (as of 5/6/20), with no deaths. That is likely due in part to the swift action of state and local authorities, our mountain geography and also to those that have provided help to our community. This Cover Story is dedicated to those that are volunteering their time and expertise to help their neighbors and our community.
Before I get to our volunteers, I want to give a very big shout-out to all of those workers on the front lines every day, especially those in health care, and including everyone stocking, driving, delivering, cleaning, cooking, cashiering, policing, etc., etc., etc. We thank you all.
At present, the Garrett County Joint Information Center is directing all questions and local offers of donations related to COVID-19 to Garrett County Community Action. The non-profit has been appointed to manage all local contributions related to COVID-19 such as homemade face coverings, food assistance, volunteer sign-ups, and cash donations.
A volunteer portal has been designed by the Health Department to aid Community Action with critical digital infrastructure and work as the “top of a funnel.” The portal collects contact information via short forms and shares the offer with a designated volunteer coordinator who will respond to volunteers individually.
“We launched a survey at the end of March to gauge community needs, especially related to food insecurity, unemployment, and other vulnerabilities as well as how people are helping others,” said Shelley Argabrite, Chief Health Strategist for the Population Health, Innovation & Informatics Unit at the Health Department. “In less than 24 hours we received over 1,000 responses. From the survey data, we built the volunteer portal to address the main concerns. We listened to your feedback and are responding with a streamlined way to organize volunteers.”
Interested persons can reach the volunteer portal at www.garretthealth.org/community and choose from a variety of ways to assist the community. Visit the portal frequently to check for updates. For those who are not online, any offer of support can be initiated by contacting Courtni Helmick, Family Self-Sufficiency Manager at Community Action, by calling 301-334-9431 ext. 6143. Cash donations are encouraged by the county COVID-19 response team and will be graciously accepted.
“The outpouring of support from our community has been truly inspiring,” said Helmick. “Times are certainly a little scary because there is so much unknown, but that has not stopped Garrett County! The portal is a wonderful tool to get the entire community involved and this pandemic has allowed community partners the opportunity to collaborate and create new ideas to best serve our community.”
Community Action is working closely with fire and rescue locations around the county to be convenient drop off sites for food and cleaning supplies. Please check the Portal for contact information, a list of requested food donations, and future donation specifics. Food giveaways are being coordinated by Community Action.
“We deeply appreciate all those who are able and willing to give during this time to those who are struggling to feed their families,” Argabrite said. “Agencies are working together to ensure no one goes hungry. A second COVID-19 survey is available here at bit.ly/surveynumbertwo. Your input drives change and helps us understand the needs of this community. Please consider taking this important survey.”
“The portal has been a wonderful tool to get the entire community involved. I have already received responses from people wanting to donate food and masks, transport essentials to those who need them the most, and help in any way they can. Normally, in a crisis people will shut down, but that is not the case for Garrett County. We have come closer together and more willing than ever to help those who are affected most by COVID-19. It has truly been humbling to see so many people from within and outside our community donate needed resources and or their time to fulfill the needs within Garrett County,” stated Helmick.
From what we have heard here at Deep Creek Times, the portal has indeed been a huge success to-date, with very significant amounts of food procured and thousands of dollars raised for those in need. With the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic and our economic recovery, I am sure they could still use donations so please check out the site link listed above or call Courtni.
Finally, here’s a few “action photos” below of our local volunteers for you. Please feel free to send in your own photos and we will run them in an upcoming Daily Notes. Thanks for reading and thanks for caring and Sarah and I wish all of our readers a safe and healthy future.
Photos:
Donated Food at Southern Rescue Squad
Modeling Masks Made by Oakland Civic Club – Darla and Bill Soles
Southern Rescue Volunteer Trista Aronhalt
Linda Bradley of Oakland Civic Club Making Masks
May 6, 2020
The weather for today will include showers, mainly after 2:00 pm with a high near 42 degrees and a low of about 29. That low will contribute to the chance of snow showers between 1:00 am and 2:00 am this evening.
So, if you thought April was wet and cool, here’s the official numbers as submitted by Glenda at Garrett Regional Medical Center: Average high temperature for the month was 56.7 degrees, average low was 34.8 degrees, with 7.24 inches of rain and 1.3 inches of frozen precipitation for the month. I could use a little more sun and warmth and a little less rain in May.
Here’s some interesting statistics from a new study for your consideration: There are 34 million single-person households in the United States. Since COVID-19 has prompted shelter-in-place orders across the country, those living alone are completely isolated, and job losses are not mitigated by help from roommates. Maryland has 604,272 adults that live alone, which is 13.2% of all adults in the state which is the 9th lowest percentage of adults living alone among all U.S. states. Here’s a link to the full study by Self Financial for your reading pleasure. Please think about reaching-out to someone in our community that is living alone.
And speaking of statistics pertinent during the COVID-19 pandemic, WalletHub just released a report on the best and worst states for nurses in the US. Where did Maryland come-in you ask? Click here to find out!
Closer to home, Garrett County Health Department was notified yesterday of one additional confirmed case of COVID-19 in Garrett County. This new positive case is a person in her 20s who is employed at an Allegany County facility with a known outbreak, and she is isolating at home. A total of 286 COVID-19 tests have been administered in Garrett County, with 249 negative results and 5 positive results for Garrett County residents.
The next Chamber Business After Hours to be held on May 14th from 4:30 – 5:30 pm, will be virtual! This virtual networking event is a fun opportunity for everyone to see each other again and reconnect! This event is free to attend. Register online at visitdeepcreek.com or contact Holly Lane at holly@garrettchamber.com. Upon your registration, you’ll receive an email confirmation with the link to join the event. Please make sure to also register through zoom as well.
The McHenry United Methodist church has land they are willing to let parishoners and even non-parishoners use to cultivate a small garden. Donations are welcome but not mandatory. Anyone can participate by calling Pastor Acord at 301.387.9059. Plot size depends on the individual, as does planting. There is even a pavilion for those working in the garden to take breaks in the shade. That is certainly a nice gesture!
May 5, 2020
Yesterday was a very nice day. A little breezy, but nice and sunny. Today will be cloudy and cooler, with a high of 46 degrees and a low around 36. There is a chance for precipitation during the day and definitely in the evening.
Here’s a close-up photo of the first apple blossom of the season, as photographed by regular reader and contributor Joe Vitek. Thanks Joe!
First Apple Blossom
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is seeking citizen input during the scoping period relative to some potential changes to brook trout fishing regulations. Here’s the link to the page that explains more on the scoping for brook trout and other species that will impact us in Western Maryland.
While the earliest cases of coronavirus in the United States were reported primarily in urban areas, which still remain hardest hit, there is increasing concern about the impact of the pandemic in rural America. Here’s a very inreresting, thought-provoking, short paper on the comparative numbers, trends and potential implications. Check it out!
Here’s a nice letter from Garrett County Health Officer, Bob Stephens, that shows his thoughtfulness and humanity along with his desire to win this war on coronavirus. Thanks Bob!
This Thursday, May 7th, is the National Day of Prayer, as observed annually on the first Thursday in May. This day of observance, designated by the United States Congress, asks people “to turn to God in prayer and meditation.” The modern law formalizing the annual National Day of Prayer observance was enacted in 1952 and each year since, the President of the United States has signed a proclamation, encouraging all Americans to pray on this day.
For you history buffs: Before 1952, there were a few other individual National Days of Prayer in United States history:
- July 20, 1775 – The Continental Congress issued a proclamation recommending “a day of public humiliation, fasting, and prayer” be observed.
- In 1795 – George Washington proclaimed a day of public thanksgiving and prayer.
- May 9, 1798 – John Adams declared this day as “a day of solemn humility, fasting, and prayer.”
- March 1863 – On March 3, Abraham Lincoln signed a Congressional resolution, during the Civil War, which called for April 30, 1863, as a day of fasting and prayer.
May 4, 2020
Saturday was a nice day at the lake. Sunday, less so, with some showers in the afternoon. Today will be mostly sunny, with a high near 53 degrees and a northwest wind of 13 to 17 mph. Monday night will see Increasing clouds, with a low around 36.
Maryland continues to see increases in confirmed cases and deaths from the coronavirus, but Saturday showed a slight decline in hospitalizations, which state officials have said is key to eventually easing restrictions. There were 989 new cases in Maryland reported on Sunday. Hopefully, we will see a positive trend develop in coming days.
Garrett County celebrated and thanked our Healthcare Heroes on Saturday. Here’s a link to some nice photos of many of them. Thanks folks for all you do to keep us safe and our community great!
HART sent this over: #GivingTuesdayNow is a new global day of giving and unity that will take place tomorrow, May 5th – in addition to the regularly scheduled December #GivingTuesday – as an emergency response to the unprecedented need caused by COVID-19. Help HART continue their mission to save the lives of homeless animals. To donate, you can visit their website, or by mail to HART, P.O. Box 623, McHenry, MD 21541, or by calling them at 301.387.7729. Please help the fur-balls if you can!
Here’s a look at HART’s numbers year-to-date through April:
Low-Cost/No-Cost Spays & Neuters: 216
Rescue & Transports: 186
Adoptions: 66
Maryland Humanities has announced a $500,000 CARES Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act Emergency Relief Grants Fund. This is a new funding opportunity for Maryland nonprofits who offer humanities programming as a significant part of their mission. The goal of this new fund is to help sustain Maryland’s infrastructure to ensure that organizations can continue to provide opportunities for public humanities programming and civic learning in Maryland’s diverse communities.
Have a great, productive and healthy Monday folks…
May 1, 2020
Welcome to May!
The weather today. will be cloudy with a high near 51 and a low around 39. Scattered showers, mainly after 10am. Northwest wind 9 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph. Saturday will be mostly sunny, with a high near 61 and a low around 52. Sunday will be mostly cloudy with a high near 64 and a low around 46. West wind around 10 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph. Showers likely, mainly before 2am.
Taylor-Made Deep Creek Vacations and Sales has created a few zoom backgrounds for you to download. We are all wishing we were at the lake, that’s for sure! Also, Taylor-Made is giving away a Deep Creek Vacation! Nominate a first responder to win.
Locally, the Garrett County Health Department is reporting the Roadmap to Recovery Will Be Slow Process.
The Maryland Attorney General has issued an Advisory about stimulus payments — on April 29, 2020, the Governor issued Executive Order 20-04-29-03 prohibiting financial institutions from garnishing this financial assistance, except as related to child support.
St. Peter’s Church has shared with us that there will be a group prayer today, Friday May 1st, at 3pm (EDT).
There’s a free bear-proof container listed in our Online Marketplace. Contact John at 202-812-5393.
Check out the Plant Invaders of Mid-Atlantic Natural Areas for information on common invaders and how to properly remove them.
#GivingTuesdayNow is a new global day of giving and unity that will take place May 5, 2020 as an emergency response to the unprecedented need caused by COVID-19. Keep in mind, locally, we have the portal at www.GarrettHealth.org/community/ to organize donations and generosity of our community. I should also mention on a state-level, there is also the Maryland Unites portal.
The April Where Am I?! winner was Robert Clark. Congrats! Take your guess in the May contest.
The next public meeting will be held Monday, May 4, 2020 at 4pm and will be streamed on Facebook.
AccuWeather is making a prediction for Summer 2020 weather:
May 1, 2020
Garrett County leaders will follow Governor Hogan’s guidance to determine the time to implement his ‘Maryland Strong: Roadmap to Recovery’ plan which he released on
Friday.
“The Governor’s plan isn’t designed to open everything at once,” said Garrett County Health Officer Bob Stephens. “The recovery plan is a series of three stages, first allowing “Low Risk” activities to begin and moving into “High Risk” activities as benchmarks are achieved. This safe, effective, and gradual approach to reopening the state is the only way we can reopen while still combating the COVID-19 pandemic.”
The governor noted that Four Building Blocks need to be firmly in place before the state can consider lifting restrictions. Those include expanding testing capability, increasing hospital surge capacity, acquiring more personal protective equipment, and a robust contact tracing operation.
Maryland is expected to continue to see an increasing number of COVID-19 cases, since the state is increasing the number of tests being completed. Because of this, the main gauge officials will use to determine when the first phase of recovery can begin is the statewide rate of hospitalizations and the number of patients admitted to ICU.
“I want to stress that each of these recovery stages will need to be instituted in a safe, gradual and effective manner,” Governor Hogan said. “If we try to rush this and if we don’t do it in a thoughtful and responsible way, it could cause a rebound of the virus which could deepen the economic crisis, prolong the fiscal problems and slow the economic recovery.”
Stage One: Low Risk activities would begin and the stay-at-home order would be lifted. It would enable some small shops and certain small businesses to open. Elective medical and dental procedures at ambulatory, outpatient and medical offices would be allowed, as would limited attendance at outdoor religious gatherings. Recreational boating, fishing, golf, hiking and hunting also would be permitted.
“As we begin to reopen, it will continue to be important for Marylanders, particularly older and more vulnerable Marylanders, to continue to stay home as much as they can,” said Governor Hogan. “All Marylanders should continue to avoid crowds and gatherings, and they should continue to practice physical distancing and to take precautions to protect themselves, their families, and their fellow Marylanders.”
Stage Two: Medium Risk activities would begin, enabling a large number of businesses and activities to come back online. Businesses that reopen during this period would need to comply with strict physical distancing and appropriate masking requirements. The stage includes numerous steps over many weeks toward recovery. It would include raising the cap on social gatherings and allowing indoor religious gatherings. Restaurants and bars could open with restrictions.
Stage Three: High Risk activities would begin. However, the Governor’s plan notes that there is no realistic timeline yet for achieving this level. It would allow larger social gatherings and reopening high-capacity bars and restaurants, as well as loosening restrictions on visits to nursing homes and hospitals. It would also include reopening entertainment venues and allowing larger religious gatherings.
Maryland’s Roadmap to Recovery lays out a plan to gradually and responsibly reopen Maryland’s economy while protecting the public’s health.