Jun 30, 2020
Yesterday was very nice and today should be even nicer. There will be patchy fog before 9:00 am. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 78 degrees with a calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. Tonight will be partly cloudy with a low around 59.
Early on Friday morning, a group of workers clad in personal protective equipment took over the lots at the Northern Middle School in Accident, and were ready for the cars of non-symptomatic people desiring COVID-19 testing. In the first hour of operation, nearly 50 tests were administered, and by the time the last car drove away, the total had reached 175. Another testing day is scheduled for Friday, July 17th, in the parking lot between the Garrett County Health Department and the Mountain Laurel Medical Center, from 7:00 am until 1:00 pm. For more information, call 301.334.7770 or 301.895.3111.
COVID-19 Testing in Accident
The next public meeting of the Garrett County Board of Commissioners is scheduled for July 6th at 4:00 pm. The meeting will be Live Streamed at tps://www.facebook.com/garrettcountygovernment/. The agenda includes an update from Garrett County Health Officer Robert Stephens. To comment on agenda items – please send to gccomments@garrettcounty.org.
This is interesting and timely: 2019 Guggenheim Fellow and New York Times bestselling author Ibram X. Kendi will discuss his renowned book “How to Be an Antiracist” on Monday, July 20th at 7:00 p.m. with Dr. Charlene M. Dukes, president of Prince George’s Community College on a webinar co-hosted by Ruth Enlow Library. You can register for this free virtual conversation with Dr. Kendi by visiting www.KendiPGC.eventbrite.com.
In order to determine where Americans’ health is recovering or worsening the most from the COVID-19 pandemic, and thus where reopening efforts can accelerate, WalletHub conducted a study that compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia across 13 key metrics. Those include the COVID-19 death rate, hospitalization rate and the rate at which people test positive. This report focuses on the latest developments in each state rather than which states have been hit the hardest throughout the pandemic. Below, are some key statistics about Maryland:
Maryland’s Health During Coronavirus (1=Most Improved; 25=Avg.):
- 44th – Death Rate This Week
- 32nd – Positive COVID-19 Testing Rate This Week
- 17th – COVID-19 Current Estimated Transmission Number*
- 35th – COVID-19 Hospitalization Rate This Week
*Estimates the average number of people to whom an infected person will transmit COVID-19.
Well, times sure have changed. I thought I would include this throwback photo of the Glendale Bridge courtesy of Taylor-Made archives. Note the limited vegetation. Gets you thinking…
Glendale Bridge Back in the Day
Jun 29, 2020
Nice weekend in between some showers/thunderstorms, but overall nice and lots of boats on the lake. Today we start with some patchy fog before 9:00 am, then we will have sunny skies and a high around 77 degrees, with a low around 58.
Went back to the CARC for the first time in three months Sunday. I had a great swim and it looks like they took some good steps in response to COVID-19. So glad they are back open!
Here’s a link to a message and update from Karen B. Salmon of the State Board of Education. It covers COVID-19-related efforts and has embedded links to other information as well. Check it out if you have kids or grandkids in K-12.
Garrett Regional Medical Center recently welcomed H. John Park, MD to the medical staff. Dr. Park is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who specializes in joint replacement, arthroscopy, cartilage restorations, sports injuries, and trauma. He has practiced for over 35 years in medical centers across the country, most recently at Vaughan Regional Medical Center in Selma, Alabama. Welcome Dr. Park.
Don’t forget that Power of Possibilities (POP) is on for Tuesday morning. Sarah and I were founders of POP and really believe in it. Though we have not been involved with it relative to organization and content for a few years, we try to spread the word because entrepreneurship is so important to our local economy. To find out more or to sign up for this year’s free, virtual event, please contact Cristey Kordyban at cristey.kordyban@garrettcollege.edu .
Also scheduled for Tuesday is the second of four Deep Creek Lake hydrilla herbicide treatments. Treatment is always subject to change due to weather conditions. During the treatment process, boaters are asked to stay clear of the treatment boat while it is underway so that the proper dosage of herbicide can be administered. Once applied, there are no recreational restrictions associated with the herbicide.
We’ve had a few inquiries about the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club annual boat parade. It is a “go” and is planned for this Friday at 7:00 pm. Boats will leave from McHenry cove and will wind-up at Dutch’s. For more information you can go here. FYI, I will be there but you won’t be seeing me, as I am trying out my new submarine. Go LIONS!
Here’s my three wishes for the rest of the season (and year) in the Deep Creek Lake area:
- That locals treat tourists with the respect they deserve and that service providers go out of their way to make tourists feel welcome and “at home” during their stay
- That tourists treat locals, especially our front-line retail and food service workers with respect and appreciation
- That everyone, including business owners, managers, workers, locals and visiitors take personal responsibility for stopping the spread of coronavirus and keeping each other safe and healthy
As news over the weekend turned to renewed intererest in closures and new precautions under consideration or enacted due to the recent “surge” in COVID-19 cases in some areas of the US (I am not talking about Garrett County) I thought I would include this interesting graph that provides a global perspective. I’ll let our readers draw your own conclusions from the data as presented. I thought it was interesting.
Rolling Average of New Coronavirus Cases Globally
Have a great Monday folks!
Jun 26, 2020
The weather today will be mostly sunny with a high near 75 and a low around 64. West wind 8 to 13 mph. A slight chance of showers, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after midnight. Saturday will be partly sunny with a chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 3pm. High near 75 and low around 63. Sunday will be mostly cloudy with showers likely. High near 74 and low around 62.
No cost COVID-19 testing sites have been announced by the Garrett County Health Department. Today the testing will be held at Northern Middle School (371 Pride Parkway in Accident) from 7 am-1 pm. This is asymptomatic testing ONLY.
The link to the latest episode of Wildfulness podcast is live. Thank you, Lisa!
Garrett County has a current census response rate of 48.1% … it’s not too late to respond!
“Simple tactics like slow reeling a nightcrawler, jigging, or a minnow under a slip bobber should do the trick,” according to fisheries biologist Kenny Wampler. “Targeting weedline edges and submerged trees is the key to success for walleyes, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch… ”
Tonight or tomorrow The Manor Steakhouse is offering a special on crab stuffed snapper with an imperial sauce. Wow! Sounds delish! They are now open for outside dining or carryout with an expanded menu. Reservations are recommended! 240-488-1104
The Farmer’s Market is tomorrow from 10am – 1pm in the Mountain Fresh Pavilion in Oakland.
Yay for live music! Black Bear Tavern is having Paul Burger from 7-10pm tomorrow (no cover).
Community Action has announced nonperishable food will be collected at the following additional locations:
• Bloomington Volunteer Fire Department:
June 26th 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Southern Rescue Squad:
June 27th 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
Thanks to Dee Dave for this deer “statue” photo!
Jun 25, 2020
Garrett County Health Department drive-thru COVID-19 testing opportunities:
- Northern Middle School: 371 Pride Parkway, Accident, June 26, 7 am-1 pm
- Garrett County Health Department in the lot located between the Garrett Health Department and Mountain Laurel Medical Center: 1027 Memorial Drive, Oakland, July 17, 7 am-1 pm
Specifics about these events:
- No cost
- No doctor’s order required
- Testing is for non-symptomatic persons
- Testing will be done as persons sit in their car
- Testing will be done with a nasal swab (nasopharyngeal swab or NP) which may detect a current infection
- Testing is not for antibodies to identify a previous infection
- Test results are anticipated to take 3-4 days
- Negative results will be sent to the person’s mailing address
- Persons with positive results will be called directly
- A valid daytime phone number is required
Those who test positive must isolate at home for 10 days, should only leave their home for essential purposes such as medical visits, and must wear face coverings, practice physical distancing, and frequent hand hygiene.
NOTE: If you have any of these COVID-19 symptoms, this testing site is not for you: fever/chills, sore throat, cough, fatigue, muscle aches, shortness of breath, sudden loss of taste or smell, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Contact your doctor to be evaluated and possibly referred to the hospital outpatient laboratory or another clinical laboratory for testing. Also contact your doctor if you want an antibody test; the health department is not performing antibody testing.
For more information, call 301 334-7770 or 301 895-3111.
Jun 25, 2020
Community Action has announced nonperishable food will be collected at the following additional locations:
• Accident Volunteer Fire Department:
June 24th 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM
• Bloomington Volunteer Fire Department:
June 26th 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
• Southern Rescue Squad:
June 27th 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM
A volunteer portal at
www.garretthealth.org/community has been designed by the Health Department to aid Community Action with the critical digital infrastructure to coordinate offers of help as well as the distribution of donations.
The portal has a list of the specific foods requested based on Ready.gov/food recommendations for stocking a three-day supply of non-perishable items such as canned food, dry mixes, and staples not requiring refrigeration.
Also, to learn more about how our community is working together to address food insecurities, Shelley Argabrite, Health Strategist for Garrett County is inviting you to join the discussion this Thursday beginning at 8:00 a.m. by participating in a virtual meeting by phone or computer.
“We each have our own ideas about what it means to be healthy, what we feel the biggest issues are for ourselves, and the community we live in,” Argabrite said. ”Health cannot be adequately discussed without acknowledging that it is fundamentally affected by our income and food insecurities continues to be an issue that demands engaged involvement with dedicated partners. This month during the Health Planning Council we will be hearing from agencies and volunteers that make a direct contribution to addressing food insecurities in Garrett County.”
This interagency coalition is hosted by the Garrett County Health Department and is held on the fourth Thursday of every month. If you miss this one you can check out the details on mygarrettcounty.com by visiting the action group called Health Planning Council.
Join Thursday’s Health Planning Council meeting on June 25, 2020, from 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM via Google meet meet.google.com/gyx-yavi-duq or by phone at 1-321-442-0239 (PIN: 961134551).
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.
Jun 25, 2020
The weather today will be mostly sunny with isolated showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. High near 73 and a low around 57.
There’s a sailboat that has been newly listed in our Online Marketplace! $850 takes this Sunfish home! 🐟
So, what do you call them? Here is a regional representation by Josh Katz.
The 79th Annual Preston County Buckwheat Festival (in neighboring Preston County) has been canceled.
The Garrett Institute of Lifelong Learning (at Garrett College) has made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Annual Membership Picnic and all fall courses.
Garrett County Community Action in partnership with the Garrett County Volunteer Fire Departments, Crossroads Church, and Garrett County Government hosted a huge COVID-19 relief food drive and collected enough food to fill 118 emergency food boxes. This will feed 216 people in need! THANK YOU!
This month during the Health Planning Council we will be hearing from agencies and volunteers that make a direct contribution to addressing food insecurities in Garrett County. Join Thursday’s webinar today from 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM via Google meet meet.google.com/gyx-yavi-duq or by phone at 1-321-442-0239 (PIN: 961134551).
I saw this vintage Deep Creek Lake lapel pin on eBay. I have no connection to the seller but I thought it was neat.
Also, here’s a “Fall Flashback” photo posted to Reddit. This is taken from the overlook over the town of Oakland.
Western Maryland Small Town Charm - Fall Flashback Found While Switching Phones - Oakland, Maryland - Near Deep Creek Lake from maryland
Jun 24, 2020
Yesterday was nice until mid-afternoon, then the promised showers appeared in some parts of the county. Today will be mostly sunny, with a high near 71 degrees and a low of 56.
Don’t forget that the Mountain Fresh Farmers Market will be held today from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm at the pavilion in downtown Oakland. Lots of fresh veggies and other good stuff. And, please remember, they have some COVID-19-related rules in effect (see the link).
I am a judge this year for the business plan competition for Garrett College’s Power of Possibilities. They had a couple of good new-business ideas proposed by a couple of young, local entrepreneurs mentored by Jodi McClintock. This year’s condensed e-conference, where the winner of the competition will be announced, will be held virtually at 9:30 am on June 30th. Here’s the link for more information and to sign-up.
HART for Animals has moved their thrift shop to Sand Flat Road Plaza, with a planned-for re-opening on Thursday, July 2nd. HART’s Pick of the Litter Thrift Shop is behind Shooters Bar & Grill and carries items such as housewares, fashions, home accesories, pet accessiries, baby and kids wear, toys, gifts, furniture and more. They are worth a visit and remember the store helps with fundraising for HART’s noble goals. Here’s a photo – nice job Paula and team:
HART’s new Pick of the Litter Thrift Store
The annual Fireworks Celebration at the Broadford Lake Recreation Area will be held on Friday, July 3rd, with a rain date of July 5th. There is a small admission charge of $3 per person, with $1 for children under eight yers of age.
Fireworks will also light up the sky on July 4th as the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce presents the annual “Fire on the Mountain” Fireworks Display. The display is set to begin at dark with fireworks launched from the top of the Tubing Park at Wisp Resort. Prime viewing locations include the Scenic Overlook on Route 219, Wisp Resort, local businesses in McHenry, and from a boat on the lake, particularly around McHenry Cove.
Now that we are all emerging from various degrees of being cooped-up and with vacation travel taking off, I thought I would post these sobering statistics on speeding in Maryland.
A recent analysis by CoPilot Using data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and NHTSA, found that in Maryland, 26.6% of total traffic deaths involve speeding. Here is a summary of the data for Maryland and please drive safe:
- Traffic fatalities that involve speeding: 26.6% of total
- Speeding-related traffic fatality rate per 100k: 2.24
- Total traffic fatalities that involve speeding (past 5 years): 676
- Total traffic fatalities (past 5 years): 2,543
- Maximum posted speed limit: 70 mph
- Worst county for speeding: Baltimore City
If you see Barry or Mary Ann Krewson around the lake, congratulate them on being chosen as co-directors of the golf course at Alpine Lake Resort for this summer. Both are avid golfers and great people, and Barry is a member of Deep Creek Lake Lions along with yours truly! I’m sure they will do a great job and have lots of fun while doing it. Fore!
Jun 23, 2020
Yesterday was nice, but with some thunderstorms in the area. Today starts with a chance for showers, then showers and thunderstorms likely after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 79 degrees and a low of about 59. There will be a south wind 7 to 10 mph and a chance of precipitation of 60%.
I know things are a bit “off” due the coronavirus and self isolation/working from home, but it seems like the end of June just crept up on me here. I am going to take a breath and smell the wild roses I think!
Somewhere over the fogbow… Here’s a very cool photo taken by Charles Walch yesterday morning. It is a photo of a fogbow, sometimes referred to as a white rainbow. As you would expect from the name, it occurs in foggy weather and is a much rarer phenomena than a rainbow. Thanks Charles and here’s the photo he took:
Fogbow
In addition to the COVID-19 testing scheduled for this Friday, the Garrett County Health Department has announced a second testing opportunity (also for thoe without symptoms) to be held at the Mountain Laurel Medical Center at 1027 Memorial Drive in Oakland on Friday, July 17th from 7:00 am to 1:00 pm. More information will be forthcoming closer to that date.
Yesterday the state of Maryland reported 297 new COVID-19 cases with eight new deaths. I believe that brings totals for the pandemic in Maryland to 64,656 and 3,060 for cases and deaths, respectively. While some parts of the country are seeing large increases, we in Maryland are holding fairly steady, with Garrett County one of the lowest counties in the state.
The 2020 Autumn Glory Royalty Court has been selected for the 53rd Annual Autumn Glory Festival. This year’s King is Jarrett Miller and the Queen is Olivia Warne. Patriot Automotive is the title sponsor of the 53rd Annual Autumn Glory Festival. Both Jarrett and Olivia are very involved and active students and are well deserving of this honor. Congratulations.
This is interesting and a little different as we get ready for July 4th. To determine where Americans have the most red, white and blue pride, WalletHub recently compared the 50 states across 13 key indicators of patriotism. Their data set ranged from the state’s military enlistees and veterans to the share of adults who voted in the 2016 presidential election to AmeriCorps volunteers per capita. Here’s some key facts from the full report, where you can also see an interactive map and find where Maryland and other states ranked overall (we did well):
Patriotism in Maryland (1=Most Patriotic; 25=Avg)
- 26th – Average Number of Military Enlistees per 1,000 Civilian Adults
- 15th – Active-Duty Military Personnel per 100,000 Civilian Adults
- 5th – Peace Corps Volunteers per Capita
- 14th – % of Adults Who Voted in 2016 Presidential Election
- 13th – Volunteer Rate
- 1st – Civics Education Requirement
- 4th – Volunteer Hours per Resident
- 24th – AmeriCorps Volunteers per Capita
Jun 22, 2020
Press Release
Garrett Regional Medical Center celebrates 70th anniversary
OAKLAND, MD
The history of the hospital dates back to 1946, when George W. Loar, a resident of Oakland, left the town $135,000 in his will to be used for the construction of a county hospital. On May 15, 1950, Garrett County Memorial Hospital officially opened its doors. Today, GRMC has grown into an award winning, progressive, Joint Commission accredited acute care facility with 55 inpatient beds and a plethora of outpatient services.
“From our modest beginning as a small county hospital, our commitment to patient care and the community has never changed,” said GRMC President and CEO Mark Boucot. “We’ve worked to create a hospital able to provide the services people need, and the services we’ve provided over the years have reflected the changes and growth in the health care industry. That is certainly the case today. One of the best things that I was able to do when I came to GRMC was to develop the History Hall. Through creating the memorial to the hospital’s history, I learned about the hospital and the people who formed it. I’m grateful to be here and to cherish the unique history we have and the hospital it’s become.”
In 2015, the hospital became clinically affiliated with West Virginia University Medicine, and Garrett County Memorial Hospital officially became Garrett Regional Medical Center. The new affiliation allowed GRMC to greatly expand services, which now include cardiopulmonary, heart and vascular, cancer care, infusion therapy, nephrology, orthopedics, wound care, behavioral health, dermatology, and a host of other outpatient services not typically found in a rural hospital setting.
GRMC has received numerous national recognitions for quality of care, patient outcomes, and patient safety. This year the hospital was awarded a coveted 5-star rating by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, named a Top 100 Rural & Community Hospital by the Chartis Group, and received an ‘A’ grade by the Leapfrog Group for their achievements in providing safe, high quality health care.
“As GRMC reaches the significant milestone of its 70th anniversary, I want to recognize our incredible physicians, providers, and staff for their dedication to our mission to treat every patient like family,” said Boucot. “They live that mission, every day. It’s so humbling to think of all the talented and dedicated people that worked here over the years and those who work here today. I’m honored to be in a leadership role here.”
GRMC is the top-rated hospital in the state of Maryland for reducing hospital-acquired conditions, and has had the lowest readmission rate in the state for the past five years. GRMC’s surgical site infection rate of 0.08% is far below the national average of 1.9%. It is ranked among the top 50 hospitals in the United States for its low readmission rates for both COPD patients and for patients diagnosed with sepsis.
This year the hospital has faced unique challenges as healthcare facilities across the country adapt to a global pandemic. “We are experiencing a watershed moment in healthcare,” said Boucot. “As we face new challenges, the efforts of our staff will be remembered as an important part of our history for years to come. I am very grateful for those who make our hospital a special place. What we have accomplished over the years, even during these challenging times, is truly amazing.”
For more information visit www.grmc-wvumedicine.org.
Jun 22, 2020
NEWS RELEASE
June 22, 2020 – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE –
Drive-thru COVID-19 Testing Opportunities Announced for Persons without Symptoms
By Garrett County Joint Information Center Team
The Garrett County Health Department will be offering two “Drive-Thru” COVID-19 testing opportunutues for persons without symptoms at two locations in the coming weeks.
The first drive-thru testing opportunity will be held at Northern Middle School at 371 Pride Parkway in Accident on Friday, June 26. The hours will be held rain or shine from 7:00 a.m. to 1 p.m. Testing will be done while persons are sitting in their cars. There will be no cost for this nasopharyngeal swab PCR test that may detect a current COVID-19 infection. Persons with positive results will be called directly, while negative results will be sent to the person’s mailing address. Staff anticipates that test results will take 3-4 days. THIS IS NOT AN ANTIBODY TEST THAT MAY IDENTIFY A PREVIOUS INFECTION.
A second testing opportunity will be held at the Mountain Laurel Medical Center at 1027 Memorial Drive in Oakland on Friday, July 17 from 7:00 a.m to 1 p.m. More information will be forthcoming closer to that date.
These clinics are for persons who do not have symptoms. Persons with symptoms of COVID-19 should contact their doctor to be tested at the hospital outpatient laboratory or other clinical laboratory. Persons that are interested in an antibody test for COVID-19 should also contact their health care provider.
For more information, call 301 334-7770 or 301 895-3111.
Jun 22, 2020
Some spotty storms over the weekend, but pretty much a nice weekend. Today we have a chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 4:00 pm and a slight chance after 8:00 pm. The high will be near 78 degrees and the low will be around 63. Looks like the late afternoon is the best time to plan an outdoor activity.
I hope all the dad’s out there had a great day yesterday. I sure did. My own dad passed away in 1983, and was a great guy and wonderful father that I miss to this day. So, here’s a shout-out to all the great dad’s that are important in so many ways to their families and our community.
And, speaking of dads, I erroneously put Bob Boal’s name as author for this month’s Cover Story instead of his son Brian. They are both great fellows and great accountants, but my fault for the screw-up name-wise. You can check out the article, with some important, timely tax advice, here.
Moving on to the moms in our community, here’s a great photo (and video) of one with her four cubs (one is hidden in the photo) taken by Rich Heironimus near Heron Cove off of Paradise Point Road. Thanks for submitting the photo and also a video Rich!
Mama Bear and Her Cubs
Here’s a link to a COVID-19- related communication from the Maryland State Department of Education. It covers the list of 13 things local school systems must do in order to be ready to open in the fall. And, if you scroll down, you will see a piece on two student investment teams at Southern High School that placed first and third in the state of Maryland Stock Market Game Competition. Impressive and congratulations to those students and their advisors!
The Garrett County Health Department is now offering no-cost “Drive-Through” COVID-19 (swab) testing for non-symptomatic persons (not exhibiting synptoms of COVID-19). The first community clinic will be held at Northern Middle School in Accident on June 26th, rain or shine, from 7:00 am – 1:00 pm. Here’s more information for you.
A hearty and well-deserved congratulations to Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) as it celebrates its 70th anniversary! The history of the hospital dates back to 1946, when George W. Loar, a resident of Oakland, left the town $135,000 in his will to be used for the construction of a county hospital. On May 15, 1950, Garrett County Memorial Hospital officially opened its doors. Today, GRMC has grown into an award winning, progressive, Joint Commission accredited acute care facility with 55 inpatient beds and a plethora of outpatient services. CONGRATULATIONS and thanks for all you do for the community!!! Check out this early photo of the hospital:
GRMC 1950
In case you were wondering, today is national chocolate eclair day, national onion rings day, and as my kitties just reminded me, national bring your cat to work day! Meow.
Have a great Monday folks…
Jun 19, 2020
Community Planning Groups across Garrett County are using alternative approaches during June to motivate their communities to increase physical activity. The theme for the overall project is “Every body needs physical exercise.” This physical activity program stresses the benefits of exercising as a family to establish lifelong habits, provide extra motivation and encouragement, and allow for more communication time.
“Although COVID-19 requires social distancing and being apart from each other, that doesn’t mean we need to be cut off from our community,” said Sandy Miller, Prevention Supervisor at the Garrett County Health Department. “These creative initiatives are helping to bring the communities together without taking the chance of sharing the coronavirus.”
Accident Community Planning group is coordinating a physical challenge. Group members send in pictures of their physical activity and log their activity on a shared google document. One family group of 10 did a 10-mile bike ride for one of their activities. As a part of their challenge, each week a name is randomly drawn to receive a prize of a physical activity game. The final prize for the challenge will be a yearly pass to Maryland State Parks.
Crellin Outreach Partnerships is sponsoring a 3-week Physical Activity Challenge, asking participants to record at least one activity they did either alone, or with their family. For each week they record an activity, they earn a chance in a drawing for a yearly Maryland State Park Passport or a Fitbit. Participants may earn a second entry each week for recording 7 miles of walking or running, or 30 minutes of physical activity for at least 5 of the 7 days.
The Friendsville Community Watch is coordinating a Physical Challenge on their Facebook page. The coordinator posts prevention messages and participants are asked to comment and post a picture of the physical activity. Weekly random drawings are done for a gift card to businesses in Friendsville. Participants have engaged in many different activities, including walking, kayaking, bike riding, playing in the river, hiking, swimming, gymnastics, garden planting, slip-n-slide, and kids doing barn work, pogo sticks, and playing in a bouncy house.
The Club 21550 Planning group is coordinating a 5-week walking challenge. Each week participants log their miles. Anyone who walks at least 5 miles for at least 4 of the weeks will earn a Farmer’s Market Certificate. If they walk 10 miles for 4 of 5 weeks they earn a greater value Farmer’s Market Certificate. There are 60 participants doing the walking challenge.
Kitzmiller Empowerment Group is coordinating two different contests at once on their Facebook page. The first activity is a physical challenge activity. Participants are asked do physical activity and complete a Google survey at the end of the week recording their activities to be eligible for a prize drawing. The second contest consists of wellness activities and is designed to help people be more aware of stress and their mental wellness. Wellness activities are posted each Monday and participants are asked to comment when they completed the activity and what they did. Activities have included such things as going outside and doing something to relax, and using a breathing technique to relax. At the end of each week a participant is randomly chosen to receive a prize.
Community Planning Groups are community-based groups comprised of volunteers, both youth and adults, who plan and carry out drug-free activities for youth and their families. For more information about any of the groups, call the Garrett County Health Department at 301-334-7730 or 301-895-3111. Activities of community planning groups are designed to promote healthy living and prevent risky behaviors and are supported by the Garrett County Health Department through funding from the Maryland Department of Health and SAMHSA.
Cutline: Many families throughout Garrett County are participating in physical activities coordinated by Community Planning Groups. Pictured above are Shane and Stephanie Mayle, and their children Emaley, Coy, and Kaelyn on one of their family walks. Stephanie said, “We enjoy walking together at the Friendsville Park because it’s so peaceful with the river running beside you as you walk.” Exercising as a family establishes lifelong habits, provides extra motivation and encouragement, and allows for more communication time.
Jun 19, 2020
The weather today will be partly sunny, with a high near 69 and a low around 58. Scattered showers likely. Saturday will be partly sunny, with a high near 73 and a low around 58. Chance of showers before noon, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between noon and 3pm, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 3pm. Sunday will be mostly sunny with a high near 77 and a low around 63. A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms through the afternoon and the night.
Happy Juneteenth Day. The holiday gets its name from June 19, 1865. That’s the day the Union army arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce that all African-American slaves in the state were free in accordance with President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. The state was the last in the Confederacy to receive word that the Civil War was over and that slavery had been abolished and the last where the federal Army established its authority.
Due to COVID-19 related school closures, children who are eligible for free or reduced-price meals will get up to $370.50 in extra food benefits from the state. These benefits, called Pandemic-EBT, or P-EBT, are intended to help families in Maryland purchase food while schools are closed.
Neighboring WV establishment, Screech Owl Brewing has closed its doors temporarily due to an employee coming into contact with COVID-19. The employee who was exposed to the virus returned to work from vacation Monday. As soon as the business was made aware of the exposure, they had all employees tested as an extra precaution. Owners also explained that no customers had been exposed to the employee.
Despite many closures and cancellations, we’re all adjusting and there are a few events beginning to happen again:
The Graduation Ceremonies of both Northern Garrett and Southern Garrett High Schools will air on June 20th. Northern Garrett High School will air at 10:00am and Southern Garrett High School will air at 2:00pm. Please set a reminder and encourage family and friends to help us celebrate the incredible accomplishments of our graduating seniors!
Get on the water for cheap! The Lion’s Club Boat Auction will be held Saturday, June 20, 9am at 1249 Bumble Bee Rd Accident MD. Over 25 boats will be sold and the proceeds benefit blind skiers and campers.
Shabby Petina is holding a Summer Solstice Market on Saturday from 9am-4pm; Shabby Patina is a charming mix of primitive, shabby chic, upcycled and repurposed items, old and new accents, and home decor!
Also, this weekend is the 25th Annual Walk for Hospice. With a $50.00 and up donation, you will receive an honorary 25th Anniversary Walk for Hospice shirt! Contact Hospice of Garrett County Inc with ANY questions at djbrenneman1@gmail.com or 301.616.3593.
Mark your calendars: Ace’s Run Pasta Night is BACK!
What’s New Around Town?
Community Planning Groups across Garrett County are using alternative approaches during June to motivate their communities to increase physical activity. The theme for the overall project is “Every body needs physical exercise.”
Jun 18, 2020
The weather will be mostly cloudy, showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 2pm. A high will be near 67 and the low will be around 58.
Congratulations to the recipients of the county’s Work Ethic Diploma!
We had reported that the Oakland Pocket Park Movies were canceled for the 2020 season but the town of Oakland is now looking into alternative strategies to safely continue this event. We will keep you posted!
The drive through COVID-19 testing station will be closing at Garrett Regional Medical Center as of June 19th. The testing will be resuming at the hospital Monday through Friday 7am to 7pm and Saturdays 7am to noon. Patients with physicians’ orders to receive a COVID-19 test are asked to check-in through the emergency department for screening and to keep a mask on at all times while inside the hospital.
A COVID-19 outbreak has been reported in neighboring Preston County, WV has been traced to travelers to and from Myrtle Beach. Eight people have tested positive, and all eight recently returned from a trip to Myrtle Beach. Health officials urge residents who have traveled back from Myrtle Beach, or any other crowded vacation destination in the last two weeks to self-quarantine for 14 days.
The Garrett County Economic Development Department has sent out its newsletter summarizing business COVID-19 resources. Mike mentioned the two local grants yesterday but there’s additional information from a few state and federal agencies, too.
The Ruth Enlow Library will be reopening on a limited basis on Monday, June 22. Here are the specific guidelines.
Take a look at our Featured Photo of the Month! Thank you, Betsy!
Jun 17, 2020
The Ruth Enlow Library of Garrett County is pleased to announce that we will be returning to our regular hours and welcoming patrons back into the building as of Monday, June 22, 2020.
It is critical, however, to remember that we are still in the midst of a pandemic. The Library takes the safety precautions we have put in place very seriously, and we ask our patrons to do the same for the health of our staff and our community. The possibility exists that depending on the number of cases in Garrett County, we may be forced to return to curbside service or close once again for an extended period, and we apologize in advance should this become necessary.
What restrictions will be in place?
- Masks are required in the building for both staff and patrons over the age of two.
- All patrons are asked to maintain a social distance of 6’ between one another. We have taken steps to help with this, and as a result, some computers have been taken offline and some seats removed. Additionally, we have marked waiting points for our patrons in line to check out materials to help ensure social distancing.
- Wipes and Saran Wrap will be available for patrons to use in sanitizing and protecting public keyboards.
- Computer assistance from staff may be limited due to the need for social distancing, and we apologize for that in advance.
- Due to the Health Department’s guidelines, only up to 50% of any building’s maximum capacity will be allowed in at any time.
- We ask patrons to please ensure that children with them respect the social space of others.
- Patrons or staff showing the symptoms of COVID-19 are asked not to join us, or may be asked to leave if necessary.
- Coffee will not be available for purchase.
What if I have books to return?
The book return slots have been reopened and we appreciate your returning all materials there. Due to health concerns, we will not be able to accept materials returned by hand.
What’s going on with late fees?
Late fees will be resuming after July 1. Since we will still be quarantining all materials returned for three days, there will be a delay between the time they’re returned and the time they’re checked in – we will ensure that you are not fined for those quarantine days.
Can I request materials from Washington or Allegany County?
We have started to once again receive materials from Washington County, although due to the delivery schedule having to be modified by the pandemic, they may be delayed more than usual. We are currently unable to receive holds from Allegany County at this time.
What about interlibrary loan?
Interlibrary loan will unfortunately remain unavailable for the immediate future.
When will you be opening the buildings more fully and/or withdrawing your social distancing measures?
Any further loosening of restrictions will depend on guidelines from the State and from the Garrett County Health Department.
When will you be holding events again?
Again, that will depend on the guidelines set by the State and the County’s Health Department, as social distancing will have to be loosened further for programs to be viable. At this point, sadly, we do not anticipate holding any Library programs at our facilities through the summer.
What if I have materials to donate?
Unfortunately, we remain unable to accept donations at this time.
How do I know the books are safe?
All materials, once returned, will still be quarantined for 72 hours to ensure that any potential for contamination is removed, following best practices recommended by the State Library Resource Center.