Garrett County Economic Development COVID-19 Information and Resources
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Wednesday June 17
Yesterday was a little on the cool side, but was a nice day nonetheless. Today will be mostly cloudy, with a chance of showers (mainly in the afternoon and evening) with a high near 68 degrees. Showers are likely in the late evening, mainly after 2:00 am, with a low around 58.
Don’t forget it is Wednesday, so the Mountain Fresh Farmers Market is open today at the pavilion by the town parketing lot in downtown Oakland. The market is open from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm.
Just heard that the Garrett County Fair is a “go” for early August. I hope all attendees stay safe.
The late Paul W. Weiler was posthumously awarded the Dr. Jeanne H. Neff Award for Distinguished Service on behalf of the Garrett College Foundation on Friday, June 12th at the GCF Board of Directors meeting that took place remotely over Zoom. I knew Paul and attended that meeting and I can say it is truly deserved. He was a smart, kind and giving individual that was a quiet asset to the college and community.
Two new grants have been made available to local businesses. Formerly known as the Garrett County Kick-Start Grant program, a modified grant for small businesses will now be known as the Garrett County COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant. In addition, a new grant program known as the Garrett County Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) Grant has been developed. These are available as a direct result of the coronavirus pandemic and are offered through Garrett County Economic Development to native Garrett County businesses.
The Mountain Laurel Garden Club is hosting its popular perennial plant sale this Saturday, June 20th, from 10:00 am – 4:00 pm (rain or shine, no pets) in downtown Oakland. The sale will be held in Daley Park, the area outside the Garrett County Historical Society at 107 S. 2nd St. The sale features over 60 varieties of native plants, perennials, shrubs, and herbs that have been grown and potted from members’ gardens in Garrett County. Entrance is free and tickets are not required. Note: In accordance with state and Garrett County Health Department guidelines, all workers and shoppers must wear masks and appropriate social distancing measures will be observed.
The Power of Possibilities Conference will be held on June 30th, starting at 9:30 am. This is a virtual event made possible by the collaboration efforts of Garrett County Economic Development and the college. Power of Possibilities is a business plan competition that is held annually. and that encompasses a focus on emerging industries, business collaboration, and entrepreneurship. To register for this free event, please email cristey.kordyban@
This one is a little weird. The Office of the State Fire Marshal has been made aware of a fictitious online poster circulating on various social media accounts, referencing Independence Day celebrations and Social Distancing. The author would have the reader believe Governor Hogan has issued a directive on a specific way to handle sparklers as well as a limited time celebrating outdoors. This poster is fake and was produced without the authority of the Governor’s Office or the Office of the State Fire Marshal.
Speaking of fireworks, readers can check the Maryland State Fire Marshal website at www.firemarshal.mdsp.org fo
So, now I am thinking about holidays. I bet you didn’t know that today is: National Eat Your Vegetables Day, National Apple Strudel Day and also National Cherry Tart Day in the USA! So please make sure you EAT YOUR VEGETABLES!!! And, then you can have your apple strudel or cherry tart for dessert. Have a great one folks…
Two Business Grants Now Available to Local Small Businesses
Two Local Small Business Grant Programs Now Available
June 16, 2020, Oakland, MD – An existing grant program has been modified and a new grant program has been created to continue to assist Garrett County’s small businesses and their employees through the COVID-19 pandemic. Formerly known as the Garrett County Kick-Start Grant program, the modified grant will now be known as the Garrett County COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant. In addition, a new grant program known as the Garrett County Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) Grant has been developed. Garrett County Economic Development and the Garrett County Development Corporation are proud to offer both programs to meet the specific needs of the local businesses.
“Throughout the COVID-19 situation, we have been monitoring the feedback and the needs of our local small business community. Fortunately, we are able to revisit the initial grant program requirements to allow more businesses to be eligible,” said Michael Hough, Director of Garrett County Economic Development. “We thank the Garrett County Commissioners and the Garrett County Development Corporation for their ongoing contributions and support.”
First, the Garrett County COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant has been reworked to add self-employed individuals as eligible applicants and to remove the requirement that a business must apply for other COVID-19 assistance prior to application. The maximum award is $2,500 for native Garrett County businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Approximately $18,000 remains for the purpose of providing one-time, short-term financial support to small businesses that meet the program’s eligibility requirements. As part of the application process, small businesses must show the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and a plan to remain solvent and in business.
In addition, a second and new grant, the Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) Grant, has been developed with an initial $200,000 fund. Native Garrett County businesses are eligible for a maximum of $1,000 to reimburse or cover the expected costs of purchasing plexiglass, signage, floor stickers, gloves, masks, sanitizer, and other items to keep staff and customers safe. Specifically, this funding is to help small businesses meet the Phase 3 requirements of Governor Hogan’s Roadmap to Recovery plan.
For both grants, the small business must be a for-profit restaurant or other food service business of any size, a for-profit small business with no more than 25 employees (as of March 1, 2020), or a self-employed individual. Home-based businesses, churches or religious institutions, banks and financial institutions, investment/real-estate entities, government agencies, and independent contractors are not eligible to apply.
“The Garrett County Economic Development Corporation is pleased to partner with Garrett County Economic Development to meet the needs of our local economy through these grant programs. As the area begins to reopen, this grant program will aid many local businesses,” said M. Elizabeth Georg, Chair Garrett County Development Corporation. Business recipients of the Garrett County Kick-Start Grant are not eligible to apply for the COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant nor the PPE Grant. Recipients of the PPE grant are not eligible for the COVID-19 Business Assistance Grant.
The grant applications and complete eligibility details for the grants are available online on both the Department of Economic Development’s (www.gcedonline.com) and the Garrett County Development Corporation’s (www.gcdevcorp.com) websites. Also, the application for each of the grants can be found at http://www.gcedonline.com/covid-19/garrett-county-covid-19-grant-programs. Finally, grant funds for both programs will be disbursed on a first-come, first-serve basis until the pool of funds has been depleted.
For more information, please contact Kim Durst, Economic Development Specialist & Business Tax Credit Administrator for Garrett County Department of Economic Development at (301) 334-1992 or kdurst@garrettcounty.org.
Late Paul Weiler Honored by Garrett College Foundation
Late Paul W. Weiler honored with Dr. Jeanne H. Neff Award for Distinguished Service
Weiler recognized for level of commitment, dedication and service
McHenry, MD – The late Paul W. Weiler was posthumously awarded the Dr. Jeanne H. Neff Award for Distinguished Service on behalf of the Garrett College Foundation on Friday, June 12th at the GCF Board of Directors meeting that took place remotely over Zoom. Attending the Zoom meeting to accept the award on his behalf were Weiler’s family members: Judy Casey(daughter), Nick and Elle Casey (grandchildren); David Weiler (son), Leslie Bellas (daughter-in-law); Alex and Katherine Weiler (grandchildren).
As part of the award’s criteria, the award recipient must demonstrate sustained and extraordinary commitment to the Garrett College Foundation Board and to the academic and professional success of Garrett College students, faculty and staff, including Garrett College programming for the benefit of the greater Garrett County community. Recipients must also demonstrate exemplification of the mission and values of Garrett College and the Garrett College Foundation, representing a strong commitment to the students and future of Garrett College.
“This award recognizes Paul’s outstanding board leadership and tireless commitment to our students, their quest for an education, and their future,” stated Susie Crawford, board chair of the Garrett College Foundation.
In 2014, Weiler began his service as a member of the Garrett College Foundation Board. Shortly thereafter, he was elected treasurer of the Foundation and served as a member of the Executive Committee. In the spring of 2018, he stepped down as treasurer as he was preparing to become President of the Property Owners’ Association (POA) of Deep Creek Lake in August 2018, but he remained a member of the Foundation Board. Outside of his involvement with the Garrett College Foundation, he taught quality audit and program management courses as an adjunct professor at the College.
Weiler was very connected and actively engaged in his community, while living in Garrett County. He served as board member for the Garrett Lakes Arts Festival (GLAF) for eight years, in which he also performed the duties as the organization’s treasurer. Additionally, he served on the board of the Deep Creek Watershed Foundation and was the Vice President for Projects. He also was co-editor for the POA of Deep Creek Lake’s newsletter, The Dispatch.
With over 45 years’ experience in program management, quality system assessments, development and integration of complex systems, Weiler was a Certified Federal Program Management Professional for Lockheed Martin, in which he obtained numerous impressive credentials to manage the company’s programs. He served as a System and Software Resource Center (SSRC) instructor as well, in which he was an author and instructor of several classes within his areas of expertise.
Over the years, Weiler held several roles within the Lockheed Martin and IBM organizations, including performing a variety of independent consulting projects in effective quality management systems along with technical and program management.
Tuesday June 16
Yesterday was a nice day, even if a bit cooler and with some clouds. Today will be mostly sunny, with a high near 69 degrees and with a low around 53.
The Allegany Arts Council just announced that the virtual home of the 6th Annual National Photography Competition & Exhibition is up and running! Although the exhibition doesn’t officially open until Saturday, June 27th, you can get a sneak peak at the incredible photography being showcased this year by visiting www.alleganyphotoshow.org. This is always an impressive show and note that the photos are for sale too!
Nicole at the Greater Oakland Business Association (GOBA) has sent over some signage for use during the pandemic as businesses of all types begin to open. The signs are from the State of Maryland and were distributed through the Governor’s office. Here’s a link for you to see the downloadable samples available.
Thought I would post this link to information from the Small Business Administration (SBA) relative to changes to the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for small businesses, including new guidelines for eligibility and also for foregiveness.
Garrett College will reopen the Community Aquatic and Recreation Complex (CARC) on Friday, June 19th at 5 p.m. as permitted by Governor Hogan’s latest executive order. The CARC will operate under its normal hours – 6:00 am to 9:00 pm Monday through Friday; 8:00 am to 8:00 pm on Saturdays, and 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on Sundays – but patrons will notice changes implemented to provide a safer and healthier environment. I am really looking forward to getting back to the swim of things at the CARC!
The County’s Joint Information Team sent us a reminder I am passing on here: Governor Larry Hogan’s Executive Order from June 10th removed many of the restrictions placed on businesses and gatherings. However, the Governor’s Order kept in place the requirement for the use of face coverings in retail, food service, and personal care businesses for both staff and customers.
Check out this month’s Cover Story from Bob Boal at Boal & Associates in Oakland. Sarah and I thought it was timely due to all the tax law changes from the coronavirus pandemic. Thanks Bob for your easy to understand insight that will definitely get folks thinking and also acting.
Two new postings to our Online MarketPlace for boats in the past two days. Go to the Online Marketplace for details, photos and more:
#1. A 2003, 115 HP Mercury fuel injected 4 stroke, 2003 Bass Pro Pontoon Trailer – Duel Axle with brakes. 25 inch pontoons with lifting strakes, under deck wave shield, 5 step stainless ladder, full Sunbrella Mooring Cover, full instruments with dept finder, vinyl floor covering, on-board washing down system, large Bimini Top, ski tow bar, Kover Clamp winter storage system (pictures available), all life preservers and accessories, 370 engine hours – excellent condition. Asking $15,000, if interested call Dave @ 724-693-9769
#2. A 2008 Tahoe 215 I/o Deck Boat – 4.3 L engine. Garmin GPS navigation/fish finder. Bimini Top. Brand new upholstery on all of the cushions. Radio and speakers updated last season. New prop spring of 2019. Also included: table and 2 fishing chairs. Low hours, very clean. Swim ladders on front and back of boat. Comes with custom dual axle trailer. This boat has always had regular annual maintenance, stored in a mine every winter, never exposed to harsh winter elements. Sink and faucet are operational. The only reason we are getting rid of it is we are finally fulfilling my wife’s desire to own a pontoon boat. $19,100 OBO. call John 412-295-5035
JUNE 2020 COVER STORY
JUNE 2020 Deep Creek Times Cover Story
Special June Cover Story from Brian Boal at Boal and Associates
We thought our readers would benefit from this submission and reminder/tips regarding taxes and tax planning from Brian Boal:
“The impact of the coronavirus crisis has brought numerous tax law changes that readers should consider as the changes could have a positive impact on 2020 and future tax liabilities. We expect many more changes to come and will plan to continue to update Deep Creek Times as they are released. Please review these changes carefully as they present some very good “planning opportunities” for 2020 and beyond.
Just to provide a high-level brush over a few of the major ones that came about as a result of the Cares Act recently:
Charitable donations – crisis situations can give us a sense of wanting to be philanthropic. Congress recognized this and created an “above the line” deduction for $300 for charitable donations made in 2020. The 2018 tax law changes made it more challenging for folks to itemize their deductions due to the higher standard deduction, this deduction provides the opportunity for an above the line deduction regardless of whether you can itemize or not. In addition, taxpayers can still utilize the QCD Qualified Charitable Distribution from their RMD, which can be a great tax planning strategy. Congress also suspended the 60% of AGI limitation on 2020 charitable donations.
The Cares Act includes three key retirement plan tax law changes for 2020 that can be very significant in your overall tax and financial planning strategy:
>Required Minimum Distributions (RMD’s) – prior to COVID, the Secure Act recently raised the age for taking RMD’s from IRA’s and other qualified retirement plans from age 70.5 to age 72. With the Cares Act, Congress suspended the requirement for taking an RMD in 2020 to allow for retirement plans to recover in value. If you already took your RMD in February or March, you still have the opportunity to return the funds to your IRA by July 15th with no tax consequences. If you took your RMD in January, it is a little more complicated, but can be possible.
>Premature Distributions – there is typically a 10% penalty on pre-age 59.5 payouts from your retirement accounts. The Cares Act has waived the 10% penalty on distributions to folks under aged 59.5 for up $100,000 of “Coronavirus related payouts”. In addition, these funds taken can be repaid to the account within a three-year period and treated as a tax-free rollover with no tax consequence. If you keep the funds, the tax on your distribution is spread and paid over a three-year period.
>401k Plan Loans – if your 401k plan allows for loans, maximum loans have been increased to the lesser of $100,000 or 100% of the account balance and repayments back on the loan have been delayed for one year. Prior to the Cares Act, the loan maximum was $50,000 with immediate monthly payments.
Roth IRA Conversions for 2020 are something you should consider – if you have room in a lower tax bracket, consider a Roth IRA conversion to maximize that lower tax bracket as well as to benefit from the potential for market growth in a tax-fee Roth setting. As always, please consult with your financial advisor in regards to the above items to make sure it makes good financial sense in your individual situation.
In addition to these changes, several key extensions came about that you should be aware of:
>The April 15th tax return due date was changed to July 15th – this includes individual income tax returns and 2020 1st quarter and 2nd quarter estimated tax payments for federal and most states. This extension was automatic, so no additional filing was necessary.
>The July 15th extension also applies to 2019 IRA contributions and 2019 Health Savings Account contributions – if you haven’t made these contributions you still have time.
>Payments on federal student loans were automatically suspended from March 13 until September. You can keep making your payments if you are able to. It should be noted that the loan is paused, not forgiven, and the 6 months of payments will still be due.
>For businesses and self-employed, employers can defer payment of their 6.2% share of Social Security tax on pages paid March 27 through December 31. Half of the deferred amount is due on 12/31/21 and the remainder on 12/31/22. There is no deferral on the “employees” share of the taxes. If you are self-employed, you can defer 50% of SECA tax. As business changes come out, we will provide another supplement explaining the changes and opportunities.
As always, we recommend that you please consult your tax advisor to discuss any of the above items or strategies to ensure that they are proper for your individual situation. If you have further questions on these items or any others, we are more than happy to answer them – please email us at info@boalcpas.com or call us at 301-334-4007. Thank you, Deep Creek Times for allowing us to disseminate this information to your readers!!”
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Monday June 15
Saturday was really nice, yesterday was rainy. Today we have a chance for showers early morning, then partly sunny, with a high near 66 degrees. Southeast wind 11 to 13 mph. It will be partly cloudy in the evening, with a low around 52.
I am working on this Daily Notes column late Sunday afternoon and when I look outside my window I see a palette of shades of green on the trees, shrubs, flowers and grass. Very peaceful and feeling blessed to be here on the mountain. After seeing the national news lately, I wish all in all locations could know our Deep Creek Lake area peace and happiness. I urge you to take a minute, take a deep breath and enjoy the moment – your moment – here at the lake or wherever you are reading this.
Speaking of peace at the lake, It is the season and lots of folks are in town and that is good for them and our small businesses, and yes, even for us locals on many levels (even with the additional traffic). Please be patient with one another, tourists, service workers and establishments trying to incorprate the “new normal” and the myriad rules associated with the pandemic. Thanks.
June is Great Outdoors Month across America. All the more reason to get out and enjoy the lake area’s environment, both flora and fauna. Here’s a link to a U.S. Census Bureau page with some interesting statistics on participation in various activities and related expenditures.
We get a lot of questions from folks related to some of the big events around the area. It looks like the July 4th “Fire on the Mountain” fireworks display is a “go.” I hear the county agricultural fair is still under discussion as to “if” and in what form. I have heard that Art & Wine will likely not happen in its usual form, and will keep readers informed when we know more. I believe Autumn Glory is still being assessed, along with the myriad other, related events.
For information from the Governor’s office on COVID-19 incidence and related, including statewide testing locations, please click here. They also have some interesting county-level statistics for comparison. It sounds like the Governor is cautiously optimistic, based on recent numbers.
The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce will hold a virtual Business Before Hours, Legislative Wrap-Up, from 8:00 am to 9:30am on Tuesday, June 23rd. District 1 Senator George Edwards and District 1A Delegate Wendell Beitzel will be featured and provide their perspectives on the 2020 session of the Maryland General Assembly. They will discuss legislation that passed, what did not pass and how businesses and Garrett County will be impacted. Cost is $5/person and you can register online at visitdeepcreek.com or contact Holly Lane at holly@garrettchamber.com
HELLLLLOOOO to all the Learning Beyond the Classroom folks out there! It’s BUS WEEK and we are so excited to send you on an adventure this week. We challenge each family to work as a team and complete the family scavenger hunt posted! Each time you complete a task sign the square. If you do not have a printer at your home, feel free to use any piece of paper you can find and make a list of one to nine! We would love to see pictures of you and your family on the scavenger hunt.
On Friday, June 19, Garrett County will be celebrating everyone who completed their Family Scavenger Hunt, by giving you a coupon for a free large pizza from several local businesses. You will need to bring your completed paper to one of the following three locations between 10:00-10:30.
Grantsville Senior Center
125 Durst Ct., Grantsville, MD
Friendville Fire Department
122 Walnut St., Friendsville, MD
Garrett County Community Action:
41 Highview Dr., Oakland, MD
HAPPPPPY SCAVENGER HUNTING!!! Check this video out for more insight into this effort: https://youtu.be/cceF1I9srtM
Have a great Monday folks…
Chamber Announces 43 Recipients of Work Ethic Diploma
The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce and Garrett County Public Schools presented Work Ethic Diplomas to 43 Class of 2020 graduates from Northern and Southern High Schools.
“On behalf of the Garrett County Chamber, congratulations to the 43 students in the Class of 2020 that have earned their Work Ethic Diplomas,” said Nicole Christian, president & CEO of the Garrett County Chamber. “We are very pleased to be recognizing the newest recipients of the Work Ethic Diploma. We are proud of their strong work ethic and know that because of it, they will be successful with their career and/or college endeavors.”
The Class of 2020 recipients of the Work Ethic Diploma are:
Luke Adams
Caid Andrews
Todd Bemiller
Jared Bittinger
Mariah Bolden
Holly Buckley
Katherine Catulle
Cheyenne Chapman
Landon Custer
Tia DeGiovanni
Hailie DeWitt
Rachel Duggan
Ian Eggleston
Madison Embleton
Josilyn Evans
Kaelyn Glotfelty
Alexx Grady
Evan Lewis
Shiann Lynch
Sara Manley
Kristen Massey
Patrick McDonagh
Jacob McRobie
Parker Meyer
Hunter Meyers
Daniel Nickel
John-Paul Ogden
Madison Prudnick
Lauren Quinn
Cheyenne Reckart
Jocelyn Schoch
Bailey Skiles
Carmen Smith
Frederick Stemple
Kimberly Stemple
Jacob Sweitzer
Madison Sweitzer
Ella Warnick
Harleigh Wildesen
Bryson Wilt
Samantha Wilt
Peyton Wilson
Mason Wolf
“Our graduates have learned the value of hard work. This value will open the door of opportunity in the workplace, which will lead to the discovery of their talents and passions,” said Chuck Olsson, Chair of the Work Ethic Diploma program and Vice President & Chief Human Resources Officer for First United Bank & Trust. The employers of Garrett County look forward to supporting their growth as the leaders of our future.”
To be awarded a Work Ethic Diploma, students had to earn a minimum of points in the following criteria: Discipline Standard, Attendance Standard, Absence Standard, Work Experience, Community Service/Internship Project Standard, Overall Grade Point Average Standard, Team Work Standard, Drug-Free (optional), and complete an Exit Interview.
The drug testing component is included in the program to help combat the opioid epidemic ravaging our communities by promoting the fact that being drug free can help in securing a job and earning better wages. Due to the pandemic, students were unable to submit for the optional drug testing this year. Therefore, we replaced the drug testing with an essay on why it is important to be drug free in the workplace. Although students are unable to receive the Drug-Free designation on their Work Ethic Diploma, the essays showed that students understand the benefits of staying drug-free.
“These students demonstrate the abilities and characteristics that employers in our community are seeking,” said Laura Fike, Chair of the Chamber’s Workforce Development Task Force and Executive Director of Garrett Mentors. “With the tighter and more competitive job market, earning a Work Ethic Diploma will give these students a leg up over other job applicants.”
The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce and Garrett County Public Schools launched the Work Ethic Diploma program in the spring of 2018 to address local workforce challenges by creating a pipeline of prospective employees who possess those quality attributes desired by employers. The 43 students from the Class of 2020 are the newest recipients and are guaranteed interviews and higher wages by the participating businesses. Full details on the program can be found at www.visitdeepcreek.com/pages/WorkEthicDiploma.
Thank you to the 37 business partners for their commitment to these students. For businesses interested in learning more about the program, please contact Holly Lane at 301-387-6171 or holly@garrettchamber.com.
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Ace’s Run Restaurant & Pub |
Lake Life Boat Rentals |
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Aquatic Center, Inc. |
Legacy Home Corp. |
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Bear Creek Traders |
McHenry Beverage Shoppe |
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Beitzel Corporation |
Monkey Business Adventure Park |
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Brenda’s Pizzeria |
Mountain Laurel Medical Center |
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Butler Painting & Remodeling, LLC |
Mountain State Brewing Company |
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Byco Enterprises, Inc. |
MSC Management Services, LLC |
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Christmas Chalet |
Naylor’s Ace Hardware |
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Cornucopia Café |
Perkins Restaurant & Bakery |
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DCL Mountain Maids & Home Services |
Pillar Innovations |
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Deep Creek Marina LLC |
Ruth Enlow Library of GC |
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First United Bank & Trust |
Savage River Lodge |
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Garrett College |
Silver Tree Marine, LLC |
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Garrett Container Systems, Inc. |
Splash Island Inflatable Water Park |
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Garrett Regional Medical Center |
The Garrett County Republican |
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Grant’s Mercantile |
The Greene Turtle Sports Bar & Grille |
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Gregg’s Pharmacy |
The Tourist Trap |
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High Mountain Sports |
Trader’s Coffee House |
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Huey’s Ice Cream |
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Ruth Enlow Library Summer Reading Challenge Begins!
The Ruth Enlow Library of Garrett County begins its 2020 Summer Reading Challenge on June 8th! This year the theme “Imagine Your Story” brings to life stories of fairytales, fantasy, and folklore. All participants will receive a free book at their first visit and various prizes for each level of completion. Then, you can visit the library starting in July for take-home activities to go along with all of your literary adventures.
Pick up a physical copy of the log at your local library branch or go to www.relib.net to download your own copy to print at home.
Friday June 12, Saturday June 13, Sunday June 14
The weather today will be sunny with a high near 74 and a low around 48. Saturday will be increasing clouds, a slight chance of showers before noon, with a high near 65 and a low around 49. Sunday, partly sunny, chance of showers with a high near 63 and a low around 51.
Many local restaurants are sort of scrambling to be able to open to a 50%-capacity outdoor dining today, Friday, at 5pm. Please be patient as this is new for everyone!
Also, outdoor amusements businesses such as go-karts and mini-golf are allowed to resume today.
A big DCT welcome to Lawn Coach, LLC – Growing the best lawns in Garrett County! Are you looking for a reliable landscaping professional in the Deep Creek Lake area? Lawn Coach can do landscape installation, weekly lawn mowing, weed control, brush learning, leaf clearing, and projects like walkways and more! Give Jeff a call at (301) 616-8472 and tell him Deep Creek Times sent ya!
Currently, a majority of the county has cable or satellite television programming from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania instead of Maryland because of our geography and FCC markets — the county has looked into this situation and the Commissioners have said they will investigate adding Maryland channels while not removing Pittsburgh channels.
The Chamber is offering a free webinar next Wednesday at 9am to talk PPP updates, loan forgiveness & “what’s next” in Coronavirus legislation. Register with Holly at holly@garrettchamber.com.
There are new construction cabins on the mountainside at The Lodges at Sunset Village – that’s what’s new around town! These cabins will be known as the Grandview cabins and you can sign-up to be the first to know when they available for reservations.
It looks like a GREAT weekend to grill! The State Fire Marshal offers top safety tips for gas and charcoal grills:
- Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders should always be transported in the upright position
- Ensure all connections are tight
- Make sure grease is not allowed to drip onto the hose or gas cylinder
- Store the cylinder (including those attached to barbecues), outdoors in a shaded, cool area
- Read thoroughly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for gas grill use.
- Use only a small amount of charcoal starter fuel
- Once a fire has been started, never add more starter fuel!
- Use great caution in disposing of ashes.
The Farmer’s Market is tomorrow morning from 10am to 1pm in the Mountain Fresh Pavilion in Oakland.
Also, it’s another FREE FISHING DAY all day!
Last but not least, as we reopen around town, we are SO excited to see entertainment is beginning again: Tonight and tomorrow there will be an acoustic duo — LIVE — at 6pm on the Mountain State Brewing Co. DCL patio.
Thursday June 11
The weather today will be mostly sunny with a high near 71 and a low around 53. West wind 8 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 22 mph.
Governor Hogan held a press conference last evening to announce that Maryland is moving forward with additional Stage Two openings as of 5 pm tomorrow (June 12):
- INDOOR DINING. Restaurants can resume indoor operations at 50 percent capacity, with appropriate distancing, and following strict public health requirements consistent with the CDC, FDA, and the National Restaurant Association. Maryland Department of Health directives.
- OUTDOOR AMUSEMENTS. Outdoor amusements and rides, including miniature golf and go-kart tracks, may resume with appropriate health and safety protocols. Capacity restrictions at pools will be increased to 50 percent with strict safety guidelines still in place. Guidelines and best practices.
Reopenings Effective Friday, June 19 at 5pm:
- INDOOR FITNESS ACTIVITIES
- CASINOS, ARCADES, AND MALLS
- CHILD CARE PROVIDERS. All child care providers may begin to reopen, and the number of individuals child care providers can have in one room has been expanded to a maximum of 15.
- OUTDOOR HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS. Outdoor high school sports may begin to resume practice and training activities within the same guidelines that were previously announced for youth sports programs.
While things are opening up at the state level, more local cancellations have been made:
There will be no Oakland Pocket Park movies for the 2020 Season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The members of the Accident Vol Fire Department have canceled the 2020 4th of July Homecoming Celebration. Also, the August Friendsville Days Festival is canceled.
As far as we know, the Fire on the Mountian Deep Creek Lake fireworks display is still ON for July 4.
Parents: The Garrett County Public Schools will be sending out a survey to gain your feedback on school reopening. They are encouraging one survey per public school student. The most-recent GCPS meeting can be found here.
Mt. Lake Independent Baptist church recently met with members of the Oakland City Police Department and the Garrett County Sherriff’s Office to present them with personalized gifts in recognition of their service to the community.
There is a WaterQuest 15.4 canoe newly listed in our Online Marketplace. Includes 3 new Skis life preservers & 2 paddles for $400 cash. Call (301) 387-5374 for information.
Baptist Church Donates to Law Enforcement
Leaders of the Mountain Lake Independent Baptist Church recently met with members of the Oakland City Police Department and the Garrett County Sherriff’s Office to present them with personalized gifts in recognition of their service to the community.
The church donated 40 individual gifts to the officers which included a gift card to local eateries and notes of thanks and encouragement from the church’s youth.
The gift cards were distributed by church representatives, Pastor Dennis Leatherman, Matt Trezise, and Edd Davis. “As Christians, we are instructed in God’s Word, the Bible, to pray and give thanks for, and to honor those in authority serving our communities (1 Timothy 2:1-2; Romans 13:1-4),” said Pastor Leatherman. “We want this to be an expression of our honor for those serving us as Law Enforcement Officers and a small token of our great appreciation for their service. We pray for safety and wisdom for each one.”
“It was very much appreciated,” says Oakland City Police Chief Bill Thomas. “I think I speak for all the police officers when I say we are extremely grateful. Any support we get from the community is amazing, it’s a great feeling.”
Wednesday June 10
Yesterday was another great day around the lake, with temperatures reaching the mid-80s. Today we have a chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly in the afternoon and evening. Mostly sunny, with a high near 83 degrees and a low of about 61, with the wind picking up later in the day.
Just in time for the season, a number of local eateries are now providing outdoor seating options in addition to carry-out. I know Manor Steakhouse is, as is Dutch’s and Greene Turtle, plus Moonshadow and Mountain State. Check out our dining guide and be sure to call in advance to confirm a specific establishment’s availability. And, don’t forget it is summer season, so expect crowds at peak times.
Speaking of food, the Mountain Fresh Farmers Market is open today from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm in downtown Oakland. They always have an array of good local and regional produce and other goodies.
The Baltimore Sun reported 500 new cases of the coronavirus yesterday, while the state’s hospitalizations from COVID-19 remained beneath 1,000. Things continue to look up locally and in the state.
Members of the Town of Oakland’s Clean and Green Team recently cleaned up planters and filled them with flowers so they can be placed throughout the downtown area. This year the flowers were purchased with funds raised by the Clean and Green Team at The Tucker County “Run For it” last September. The Clean and Green Team is one of several revitalization teams formed in 2016 to assist with revitalization projects for Oakland. Keep an eye out for the planters and thanks Clean and Green Team!
Planters in Downtown Oakland
The Board of County Commissioners Public Meeting previously scheduled for June 16th has been cancelled. The next scheduled Public Meeting will be held on Monday, July 6th beginning at 4:00 pm.
Tuesday June 9
Yesterday was another great day. Today will be sunny, with a high near 85 degrees and a low around 67. Get outside and enjoy the great weather!
Here’s a nice photo taken on the lake yesterday by Ed O’Connor. Nice job Ed and we appreciate your sharing. Like I said, we all should try to get outside and enjoy. Note that great blue sky folks!
Great Day on the Lake
Ed also mentioned that he noticed that the channel markers under the 219 bridge are in different locations this season. Anyone have any insight? Let us know at info@deepcreektimes.com and we will share with other readers.
Garrett Regional Medical Center’s Family Health & Wellness Services, through their partnership with Sheppard Pratt Health System, has expanded child and adolescent mental health care in the region with telepsychiatry. GRMC patients will have real-time consultation appointments with Sheppard Pratt psychiatrists and licensed mental health providers. Through video conferencing they will assess a patient’s behavioral health needs and provide counseling, therapy, and comprehensive treatment plans. Well done GRMC!
Speaking of health and young people, The Garrett County Health Department yesterday announced the May winners of the kNOwDRINKING Talk it UP. Lock it UP! Pledge Contest, designed to get parents to store and monitor alcohol responsibly. Emily Nelson and Jennifer Koach were chosen as the gift card winners. Of the 60 Facebookusers that participated in the May pledge:
- 93% pledged to: Not provide alcohol to youth under the age of 21 in my home, on my property, or anywhere else.
- 83% pledged to: Educate youth about underage drinking and be a positive role model.
- 60% pledged to: Not purchase large quantities of alcohol that is not secured, and to monitor alcohol in my home.
- 53% pledged to: Store alcohol in a harder to reach area.
- 45% pledged to: Lock up alcohol in my home.
Nice work folks!
And, keeping-up with our “health theme” today, Garrett County Community Action has announced six separate food drives throughout the month of June. Nonperishable food will be collected, at the following locations on the following dates:
- Pine Grove Church of the Brethren:
June 11th 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
June 15th 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM
June 18th 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
- Bloomington Volunteer Fire Department:
June 19th 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Friendsville Volunteer Fire Department:
June 20th 10:00AM to 12:00 PM
And, finally, here’s a reminder about safety from the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) and being ready for summer storms:
It’s Storm Season!
Monday June 8
We had a great weekend weather-wise. Saturday had a bit of cloudiness, but the sun won out and Sunday was perfect! The weather for today will be sunny, with a high around 76 degrees and a low of around 56. Enjoy!
Took a hike Sunday with Jean on the Meadow Mountain Trail off New Germany. A relatively easy trail of .75 miles out to an observation deck. We were rewarded, in addion to the great view from the deck, of this close-up view of Lady’s Slippers. A little past peak, but special nonetheless:
Meadow Mountain – Lady’s Slippers
Note that a lot of the trees and underbrush have been removed from part of the trail-area. The Forest Service is harvesting timber. See the photo below, but still definitely worth the hike:
Harvesting Timber Adjacent to Meadow Mountain Trail
There are a lot of visitors and locals out and about at the lake these days. I welcome all and remind all to please follow regulations/guidelines, including social distancing and the wearing of masks. I went to a local retail establishment the other day and very few patrons and no employees had on masks. One fellow was even coughing (right in front of the cashier). I was surprised and will not be back, at least for a while. I firmly believe we need to all keep one another safe.
Along those lines, I went into another retail establishment over the weekend. It was a busy place and they (the retailer) definitely had “their act together” on all levels. They did a great job but, some patrons, both locals and visitors, seemed to be challenging or laughing at the “counting of entrants” and the resulting line to get in and distancing on the line. Really? We are all in this together, and in addition to the serious health impact of COVID-19, a second wave will cause great harm to the economy. OK, I feel a little better now.
On the positive side, we heard from Maryaland officials on Sunday that COVID-19 hospitalizations have reached their lowest level in eight weeks. That is surely great news.
The Ruth Enlow Library of Garrett County begins its 2020 Summer Reading Challenge today. This year the theme “Imagine Your Story” brings to life stories of fairytales, fantasy, and folklore. All participants will receive a free book at their first visit and various prizes for each level of completion. Then, they can visit the library starting in July for take-home activities to go along with all of your literary adventures. Pick up a physical copy of the log at your local library branch or go to www.relib.net to download your own copy to print at home. Nice stuff here to keep those young minds engaged and sharp during the summer.
Saying goodbye to Hydrilla! The first of four Deep Creek Lake hydrilla herbicide treatments is scheduled to take place today. 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.
I saw this post on Facebook from a friend and thought I would share. I do not know the author, but it is timely insight from the restaurant and server’s perspective… “IMPORTANT INFO ABOUT EATING OUT…..
Yes! Restaurant patios will be open ! This is a new world though. You’re most likely going to a restaurant that threw together a patio in hopes of making some money. The building was not designed for this. They are trying their best but everything may not be perfect. Eating in the streets is fun but it’s going to be hard on the employees. They have to wear a mask and gloves no matter how hot and go possibly a few hundred feet to get more water. They are going to be hot, sweaty and most likely overwhelmed because these restaurants are not set up for this. Please help your servers in this journey by doing the following
1. Don’t run your server. Try your best to ask for everything you need at once. Remember it’s going to be a long walk from the street into the building for more water or anything else. Help us out by asking all at once
2. No mask jokes or your views on them. The server has to wear it. They have no choice and really your opinion of them while you’re eating not wearing one means nothing to them.
3. The server is wearing the mask to protect you and you have nothing on to protect them. Wash your hands.
4. You eat. You go.
Eat your meal. Have some drinks but please do not sit at a table all night unless you continue to spend money. These restaurants are working with very limited space. They can’t afford for you to order 2 side salads and water and sit there 4 hours. Yes people do do that. All the time.
5. Don’t come out if your sick.
6. Social distancing. Keep your kids at the table. Yes. They’re cute but if they are running around they are getting too close to other people.
7. Cut everyone some slack. Everything may be a bit slow because this is basically a new job for everyone. Be kind.
8. Tip. They are going to be sweating wearing masks all to make a buck. Please treat them right and leave a decent tip. If you can’t afford to tip you can’t afford to go out.
9. Be pleasant. You should be happy. You’re finally out.
10. Realize that the staff is doing their best.
11. Remember you have 3 meals a day every day of your life. This is only one of them. Calm down and enjoy it!
12. Please copy and paste!”
Finally, I want to recognize all of the brave men and women who fought on D-Day (June 6th anniversary was Saturday) and served our country in so many ways in WWII and before and after. We are the land of the free, because of the brave. Times are a bit challenging now in our country on a few fronts, but we are America and will get through this as we always do – together. Be kind, be safe and stay healthy, and have a great week dear readers…