Dec 17, 2020
Looking back to the beginning of this year, nobody could know that all of our New Year’s resolutions should have been to just make it through 2020. The pandemic has put many things into perspective, including what should make it to the top of our New Year’s resolutions.
At the top of everyone’s list should be improving our health. The pandemic has made it clear to many of us that an unhealthy body allows illnesses an unfair advantage. For anyone addicted to nicotine, regardless of whether it is in the form of cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, or vaping, kicking the habit should be high on your health priorities.
Once you decide you want to quit, how can you be successful? There is not one magic method that works for everyone; some people think it is easier to quit all at once, while others prefer to cut back gradually. Whatever way you may decide, here are some tips for quitting. First, make a list of why you want to quit – what’s in it for me? You can use the list for motivation. Second, try to stay away from other smokers as much as you can for a while. Being around other smokers and inhaling the secondhand smoke will only make it harder. Third, find something else to do instead of smoking, like taking a short walk. The urge will pass and walking helps improve your overall health.
Another way to increase your chances of quitting is to join a Quit Now class at the Garrett County Health Department. There are two classes starting in January 2021 and running for 6 weeks each.
- Tuesday, January 6, at 5:30 p.m. at the Garrett County Health Department in Oakland
- Wednesday, January 7, at 5:30 p.m. at Northern Garrett Rescue Squad in Friendsville
“This class is totally free, and designed to help you stop using all types of tobacco, including cigarettes, smokeless, and electronic smoking devices,” said Sharon Custer, Certified Tobacco Treatment Specialist at the Garrett County Health Department. “Throughout the six-weeks of classes, you will receive resources to help you change your habits, including free cessation aids.”
To promote COVID-19 safety, enrollment is limited in the classes, and all participants must wear a mask. The health department also offers individual counseling and virtual counseling to those who are interested in quitting. If you are thinking about quitting, contact Sharon by calling 301-501-8574, or email her at Sharon.custer@maryland.gov. You can also register online at www.KickingTobacco.com.
Dec 17, 2020
Early Care Programs at the Garrett County Health Department has a new case management service designed to help woman who are at risk for substance use disorder or opioid use disorder. Healthy Moms and Babies Case Management is a free service that helps connect clients to valuable resources.
The program is available to mothers and women of child-bearing age who either are at risk for, or have a history of substance use disorder or opioid use disorder. Assistance can extend to the client’s families, children, and caregivers.
“We understand that substance and opioid use can impact anyone regardless of income, education, or health status, so anyone can be at risk,” said Maria Friend, Director of Early Care Programs. “Case management services are free and can connect individuals to valuable resources!”
The case manager will be available to assist in accessing health and other needed services. This may include:
- Working with your providers to coordinate care
- Assisting families to obtain needed medical care, dental care, insurance, counseling, family planning, other treatment, etc.
- Referring families to other needed resources or services such as housing, food resources, employment, etc.
- Providing follow-up
“The case manager can help answer questions and providing education about many things, including health, pregnancy, and children,” Friend said. “And, they can to assist with referring and linking you to needed resources such as health insurance, medical care, dental care, family planning, car seats, housing, food, education, and many more. This service provides individuals someone to reach out when things come up that require extra support!”
The majority of Case Management Services are easily conducted over the phone, but home visits and other in-person encounters can occur as needed.
For more information about Health Moms and Babies Case Management, or to sign up for the program, call Early Care Programs at 301-334-7720, or 301-895-3111.
Dec 17, 2020
The Board of Directors of County United Way unanimously appointed Michele Walker as interim executive director of the organization earlier this week. Walker has been with County United Way since 1997.
“Michele has been with CUW for quite some time and has been fortunate to have worked under the direction of several Executive Directors throughout her career. She has led this community through good and bad times in her current role with County United Way and I only expect to see greater things to come as she assumes this new position”, said Cliff Wendricks, Board president. “If you have ever spoken with Michele, you know that her passion for helping people is to a fault. She leads by example and works tirelessly to ensure people in our community are not going without critical needs having been met. Michele is truly a champion of United Way and the best example of what we should all strive to be in our communities.”
“I am honored to be able to continue to serve our four county region, in my new role and I remain committed to improve the lives of our friends and neighbors through the work County United Way has done for more than 60 years,” said Walker.
Michele is a graduate of Allegany High School. Her community involvement includes the Mountain Health Alliance, Homeless Resource Day Committee, Early Childhood Education Advisory Group, Allegany County Health Coalition, Bridges to Opportunity – Getting Ahead Facilitator and the Imagination Library Steering Committee. She is also a graduate of Leadership Allegany, Class of 2020.
Walker will assume her role effective January 1, 2021. Current executive director, Juli McCoy, recently announced her departure from County United Way to lead the Allegany County Chamber of Commerce.
Dec 17, 2020
The weather today will be cloudy with a slight chance of snow showers; high near 30 and a low around 23. West wind around 8 mph.
Wednesday’s snowstorm left us with a lot of the pretty white snow but, at least in my neck of the woods, we “only” received about 8″ to 10″ of accumulation.
Send us your photos and snow accumulation totals!
Forecasters say the snowfall that has piled up and ended the snow drought in many areas of the Northeast will be in no hurry to melt away as more cold days than not are likely to persist into Christmas Day.
Testing at the Garrett County Community COVID-19 testing site at the MEDCO building at the McHenry Business Park is canceled for Thursday, December 17th due to inclement weather and safety concerns. Persons who are experiencing COVID-like symptoms may call 301-334-7697 to schedule a test at the Garrett County Health Department office in Oakland. The next COVID-19 testing event at the McHenry site will be on Tuesday, December 22nd from 9 am – 12:30 pm. Please visit garretthealth.org for additional testing information.
What’s New Around Town? Elite Appalachian Development is a training service focused on improving the overall performance and athleticism of Youth Athletes. Individual and group training services will be offered at a new centrally-located spot! Message Logan and tell him Deep Creek Times sent you!
The Board of Directors of County United Way unanimously appointed Michele Walker as interim executive director of the organization earlier this week. Walker has been with County United Way since 1997.
A panel discussion will be broadcast on Friday, December 18, 2020, at 9:00 a.m. to answer frequently asked questions on the local response related to COVID-19. The event will be the broadcast of a recorded session on the Garrett County Government’s Facebook page.
Garrett County leads the state in 7-day positive rate with 15.3% compared to the state rate of 7.5%. The county 7-day case rate per 100,000 is 71.4 compared to the state rate of 45.8. The total positives COVID-19 tests for Garrett County residents is 1,292, with 52 news cases being added since the last report on Monday, December 14th. The total county deaths due to COVID-19 or its complications is now 28, an increase of 8. The age range of the 28 local deaths is from 59 to 99.
Dec 16, 2020
We are under a Winter Storm Warning today! We will have snow, mainly after 10:00 am. The snow could be heavy at times. High near 25. East wind 8 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. New snow accumulation of 5 to 9 inches possible. This evening we will have more snow, mainly before 1:00 am. The snow could be heavy at times. Low around 22. East wind 5 to 7 mph becoming calm in the evening. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New snow accumulation of 4 to 8 inches possible.
Early Care Programs at the Garrett County Health Department has a new case management service designed to help woman who are at risk for substance use disorder or opioid use disorder. Healthy Moms and Babies Case Management is a free service that helps connect clients to valuable resources. The program is available to mothers and women of child-bearing age who either are at risk for, or have a history of substance use disorder or opioid use disorder. Assistance can extend to the client’s families, children, and caregivers.
Don’t forget about the 2020 Deep Creek Times December Dash! A little more fun to encourage our readers to stay active, enjoy our natural resources, and stay energized while social distancing through the holiday season! You can get your t-shirt (short or long-sleeve) here! The shirt is $22 and we will again be making a donation from a percentage of the “profits.” This time, we’ll be supporting HART for Animals. We appreciate your ongoing support — please message us if you have any questions!
Don’t forget to check out the Christmas light display this evening at the Armory in downtown Oakland or at Broadford Park. A great way to generate some traditional holiday experiences during these interesting times. Note that the Armory light show is free and the Broadford show costs $10, which goes to help local organizations, including Southern Garrett High School.
An interesting new store is opening-up at the Fort in McHenry on Thursday. Here’s a link to A Mountain Fix, which will offer a mix of gifts, watches and jewelry, etc. Tell them Deep Creek Times sent you!
A panel discussion will be broadcast on Friday, December 18, 2020, at 9:00 am to answer frequently asked questions on the local response related to COVID-19. Leaders from Garrett County Government, Garrett County Health Department, Garrett County Public Schools, Garrett County Sheriff’s Department, Maryland State Police, Garrett County Emergency Management and Garrett Regional Medical Center will respond to frequently asked questions via a pre-recorded session. Leaders will also share their respective organization’s plans for the continued management of the COVID-19 response.
Lebanese Taverna is coming into town again to deliver their wonderful Lebaese cuisine all the way from the Washington DC area. They will be delivering the food outside Taylor-Made this Saturday @ 3:00 pm. Not sure of order deadline but I would get your order in before Friday for sure and we will post any new information when we get it. Here’s a link to their menu and order form. Go there to verify all details.
Dec 15, 2020
New Healthy Moms and Babies Case Management Program Launched
By Diane Lee, Public Information Officer, Garrett County Health Department
Early Care Programs at the Garrett County Health Department has a new case management service designed to help woman who are at risk for substance use disorder or opioid use disorder. Healthy Moms and Babies Case Management is a free service that helps connect clients to valuable resources. The program is available to mothers and women of child-bearing age who either are at risk for, or have a history of substance use disorder or opioid use disorder. Assistance can extend to the client’s families, children, and caregivers.
“We understand that substance and opioid use can impact anyone regardless of income, education, or health status, so anyone can be at risk,” said Maria Friend, Director of Early Care Programs. “Case management services are free and can connect individuals to valuable resources!” The case manager will be available to assist in accessing health and other needed services. This may include:
- Working with your providers to coordinate care
- Assisting families to obtain needed medical care, dental care, insurance, counseling, family planning, other treatment, etc.
- Referring families to other needed resources or services such as housing, food resources, employment, etc.
- Providing follow-up
“The case manager can help answer questions and providing education about many things, including health, pregnancy, and children,” Friend said. “And, they can to assist with referring and linking you to needed resources such as health insurance, medical care, dental care, family planning, car seats, housing, food, education, and many more. This service provides individuals someone to reach out when things come up that require extra support!”
The majority of Case Management Services are easily conducted over the phone, but home visits and other in-person encounters can occur as needed. For more information about Health Moms and Babies Case Management, or to sign up for the program, call Early Care Programs at 301-334-7720, or 301-895-3111. This Healthy Moms and Babies Project is coordinated by the Garrett County Health Department through funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration of the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services.
Dec 15, 2020
Yesterday was a nice, snowy day that created some really beautiful landscapes. Today we can expect it to be partly sunny, with a high near 31 degrees and calm. Tonight will be mostly cloudy, with a low around 19. East wind 3 to 8 mph.
Here’s a photo of my yard yesterday afternoon to give folks not at the lake an idea of the snow.
After the Snow
Winter storm watches and advisories have been issued across the Northeast for what is shaping up to be the most significant winter storm in several years. Even with travel being limited amid the coronavirus pandemic, the storm, which has yet to fully take shape, could potentially become highly impactful and disruptive as the first round of coronavirus vaccines continue to be shipped around the country. Check it out here. Hint: Garrett County is in the “heavy snow” band!
Garrett County’s current total positives for COVID-19 is at 1,240, with the addition of 50 news cases since the Garrett County Health Department’s last report on Friday, December11th. Total county deaths due to COVID-19 or its complications is now 20, an increase of 6. The age range of the local deaths is from 61 to 99.
The current comparison of Garrett County to state COVID-19 numbers is as follows: 7-day positivity rate among Garrett County residents is 15.7% (Maryland rate is 7.5%); 7-day case rate per 100,000 among Garrett County residents is 87.2 (Maryland rate is 46.4)
There has been some uncertainty among members of the public surrounding the news of the vaccine rollout; however, the Maryland State Department of Health is well-aware of our local situation in Garrett County. The Board of Garrett County Commissioners has been working with our local delegation and has reached out directly to the Governor’s office. Here’s the full, updated press release for you.
GLAF just announced a great virtual concert available to all. The Maryland Symphony Orchestra will present a virtual “Home for the Holidays” concert free of charge to the community on December 20th at 3:00 pm. Here’s the scoop and sign-up information. The Maryland Symphony Orchestra always does a great job when they come out to Garrett County, so I expect this will be another great show.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources and Forest Conservancy District Boards invite all Maryland fifth-graders in private and public schools to participate in the annual Arbor Day Poster Contest. The theme for 2021 is: “Trees are Terrific…and Forest Products are Too!” The top three winning artists will receive tree plantings at their schools.
The County Commissioners have announced their next public meeting agenda for the meeting to be on Monday, December 22nd. The agenda includes a section on a COVID-19 update from Health Commissioner Bob Stephens.
Dec 14, 2020
Garrett County Scheduled to Receive COVID-19 Vaccine
By Sarah Myers, Communications Coordinator, Garrett County Government
December 14, 2020, Oakland, MD – The Maryland Governor’s office over the weekend announced the allocation of the first-round of COVID-19 vaccine available, as the first phase, directly to hospitals, nursing homes, and their front-line staff. This vaccine will be the Pfizer formula.
There has been some uncertainty surrounding the news of the vaccine rollout; however, the Maryland State Department of Health is well-aware of our local situation. The Board of Garrett County Commissioners has been working with our local delegation and has reached out directly to the Governor’s office. In response, we were made aware that twenty-four of the largest hospitals will receive the vaccine while 22 of the smaller hospitals will not receive the vaccine this week.
The state has signed up all of the state’s 227 nursing homes and 1,668 assisted living facilities for the federal distribution partnership through CVS and Walgreens. Garrett County has not been left out of the distribution. While it’s not necessarily ideal to have to wait approximately a week for the second-round (the Moderna vaccine) for the hospital, the Board understands the logistics of the first distribution. The Pfizer vaccine needs extreme cold storage and is prepared in packaging that cannot be split.
“We continue to work with the leadership downstate and, rest assured, Garrett County is slated to receive vaccinations. Note, the first few weeks of distribution will be dedicated to healthcare facilities, their front-line responders and nursing homes,” said Paul Edwards, Chair, Board of Garrett County Commissioners. “The general public won’t be eligible for a vaccine for several weeks but our local teams are preparing for the rollout.”
Phase 1 of the state’s vaccination plan will begin when there is limited vaccine availability and will focus on target priority groups to receive the vaccination. These groups will include those at highest risk of exposure to or developing complications from COVID-19, including:
- Healthcare workers, residents and staff of long-term care facilities, first responders
- People at significantly higher risk of severe COVID-19 illness
Phase 2 will include people in critical infrastructure roles, including essential non-healthcare and transportation workers, and people at moderately higher risk of severe COVID-19 illness. Phase 3 will be a wide-scale distribution of the vaccine associated with broad availability to the general population of the state.
“Garrett County is in constant contact with the state through Maryland Department of Health,” said Garrett County Health Officer Bob Stephens. “The successful rollout of the vaccine will take time and we are confident we will get our share in future shipments.” The Board of County Commissioners has been and continues to advocate personal responsibility during this unique public health emergency. The County and the County Health Officer continue to communicate the Governor’s Executive Orders and personal responsibility advice to the public.
For community members with medical questions regarding Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), please utilize the Garrett County Health Department website https://garretthealth.org/coronavirus or telephone hotline at 301-334-7698.
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Dec 14, 2020
Yesterday was overcast and a bit rainy. Today we are under a winter weather advisory and look to have snow, mainly before 1:00 pm with a high near 34 degrees. Light west wind increasing to 9 to 14 mph in the morning with wind gusts as high as 26 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. New snow accumulation of 2 to 4 inches possible. Tonight will be partly cloudy, with a low around 19. Northwest wind 9 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.
Here’s a photo of my front yard this morning:
Morning Snow
According to AccuWeather, we could also be facing a major snow and ice storm later in the week. Details still need to be developed, but here’s the link for the latest scoop.
Had a great meal and overall experience at the lake’s new Firewater Kitchen and Bar the other day. It looks like local super-entrepreneur Brenda McDonnel and her team have another hit to their credit. The decor is great, the food (I had seafood stew) was wonderful and the drinks were fine. Check it out on the water behind Ace’s Run.
Speaking of the hospitality industry, Alpine Lake Resort in nearby Terra Alta, WV – about 15 minutes south of Oakland – is looking for a new General Manager. Alpine Lake is a great place with golf, a restaurant, hiking trails, hotel, lodge, indoor pool and a nice lake. This could be a great opportunity for the right local or not-so-local looking to move to the beauty and serenity of the mountains.
On a negative note, we heard local long-time DJ at WKHJ, Jim Shaffer, has left the station as he continues a long health battle. He is a good fellow and integral part of our community and we wish him the very best.
The Garrett County Department of Solid Waste & Recycling announces that the 2021 Residential Refuse Permits are available for an annual $75 fee. The 2020 permits will expire on December 31, 2020 and the 2021 permits will be valid from the date of purchase through the end of 2021.
The Garrett County Health Department received 60 additional positive COVID-19 results since the last report on Wednesday, December 9th, bringing the current county total positives to 1,190 as of Friday. The current comparison of Garrett County to state numbers is as follows: 7-day positivity rate among Garrett County residents is 17.8% (Maryland rate is 7.5%); 7-day case rate per 100,000 among Garrett County residents is 108.8 (Maryland rate is 48.3).
Remember that the Garrett County Health Department, with the help of local partners and volunteers, is conducting free COVID-19 testing on Tuesdays (9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) and Thursdays (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), at the MEDCO Building in the McHenry Business Park, located off Bumble Bee Road between Hart for Animals and the Garrett County Airport. There is no out-of-pocket cost to get a test at this site, and appointments and doctors’ orders are not required. Be prepared for a possible wait.
Send us your ideas and content! As you know, we publish a new edition of Deep Creek Times every month. With the new edition comes a new Cover Story, which deals with a variety of topics over a given 12 month period, including local attractions, issues, people, locations, or simply musings on topics we deem noteworthy. Well, we want to hear from you on any suggested lake-related topics you would find interesting. We would also consider publishing, as we do from time to time, a guest Cover Story from you or your organization. Think about it and let us know any thoughts at info@deepcreektimes.com . Thanks!
Have a great Monday and week dear readers…
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Dec 13, 2020
The Board of Directors is seeking candidates for General Manager at Alpine Lake Resort in nearby Terra Alta. Here’s a preliminary job description. Please send any inquiries to Board president Dennis Uhler at dennisuhler@alpinelake.com
Preliminary Job Description for General Manager position at Alpine Lake Resort
Alpine Lake Resort
General Manager Job Description
About Us
Alpine Lake Resort is a four-season, multi-amenity resort located just outside Terra Alta in the beautiful
mountains of West Virginia. Encompassing almost 2,000 acres of wooded land and thirty-five miles of
paved roads, the resort offers dozens of natural and man-made amenities, including a variety of lodging
accommodations, restaurant, a 150-acre lake with boat house and beach amenities, an 18-hole golf
course, private homes, a lodge, hiking trails, and other amenities. The resort welcomes and serves
visitors and guests year-round as well as its over 500 full and part-time residents.
Alpine Lake started in the late 1960s as “Mountaintop Vacationland”. It was later renamed Alpine Lake,
and greatly expanded. The Alpine Lake Property Owners Association, through a general manager, now
manages all aspects of the community.
The resort is a well-regarded regional destination that provides a great place for employees to begin or
continue a career in a beautiful, rejuvenating mountain environment just a few hours’ drive from
Pittsburgh, Baltimore and Washington, DC. Alpine Lake Resort is truly a place where members, guests
and employees can come to “Live Their Dreams.”
Position Description
Alpine Lake is seeking a General Manager to oversee its business operations and property owner needs.
The business consists of:
• Restaurant & Lounge
• A 35-room hotel
• 18 Hole Golf Course
• Cabin Rentals
• Special Events/Lake activities
The ideal candidate is a seasoned and highly proficient hospitality professional with outstanding
management skills, and extensive hands-on experience.
The successful candidate is a self-starter who possesses the ability to establish and maintain
collaborative working relationships and communicate effectively with staff, business leadership, and
property owner groups. It’s crucial for the candidate to possess the skills to analyze and resolve
problems, use independent judgment, exhibit strategic vision, and deal successfully with the public.
The candidate must have the necessary skills to perform basic financial analysis, lead the business
operations budgetary process, understand billing, purchasing, and employee relations.
Duties and Responsibilities
The General Manager:
• Oversees and participates in the resort operations of the resort and ensures the operations
quality.
• Establishes a 100% service first attitude among 50+ employees.
• Is accountable for the responsibilities of department heads and holds regular briefings and
meetings with all head of departments.
• Leads all key property activities including capital projects, customer service initiatives,
refurbishment, and maintenance.
• Ensures all staff deliver excellent customer service and takes ownership of all guest complaints.
• Sets budget goals and takes responsibility for the preparation, presentation and subsequent
achievement of the resort’s (including residential components) annual Operating Budget,
existing Marketing & Sales Plan, and Capital Budget.
• Manages on-going profitability of the resort, ensuring revenue and guest satisfaction targets are
exceeded, while implementing cost savings initiatives.
• Ensures all decisions are made in the best interest of the resort and ownership.
• Sets short- and long-term strategic goals for the resort.
• Exhibits a strong understanding of financial statements as well as the ability to react with
impactful strategies to improve profitability and financial results.
• Oversees and takes responsibility for accurate and complete monthly financial reports for the
Treasurer and Board of Directors.
• Supports the procurement of operating supplies and equipment and contracts with third-party
vendors for essential equipment and services.
• Serves as a final decision maker in hiring key staff.
• Manages and develops the Resort Leadership team to ensure career progression and
development.
• Provides effective leadership to resort team members.
• Leads all aspects of business planning.
• Responds to external audits and performs internal audits to ensure continual improvement is
achieved.
• Participates in new Customer and Property Owner acquisition.
• Develops strong sales prospects along with the sales & marketing team, assisting in residential
sales as necessary.
• Supports Property Owners’ events and activities as necessary.
• Ensures common areas, amenities, and roads of the Community are properly maintained.
• Ensures timely billing of Property Owner Assessments
• Facilitates the collections of delinquent Property Owner accounts.
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in business or hospitality management or work equivalent.
Exceptional leadership ability; lead by example and foster a thriving culture for all staff members to
grow in their current and future roles.
Exemplary skills managing homeowner relationships.
A strategic and creative mindset that will foster “outside of the box” thinking and ideas.
Experience with budgets and forecasting; ability to decipher financial reporting. Solid background
managing food & beverage, and event functions.
Skills
Dynamic interpersonal skills
Effective computer skills
Superior skills with MS Office suite including PowerPoint, MS Word, and Excel
Familiarity with QuickBooks is preferred
Benefits
All full-time employees receive two weeks’ vacation per year, health and other insurance benefits. All
employees receive discounts on meals and use of resort amenities for themselves and their household
including the golf course, lake, pool, and fitness room.
Relocation and temporary housing assistance are available for the right candidate
Dec 11, 2020
The weather today will be sunny with a high near 58 and a low around 37. Saturday will be a chance of showers, mainly after 4pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 55 and low around 38. Sunday will be mostly cloudy with a high near 43 and a low around 30. A slight chance of showers before 1pm. West wind 13 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.
AccuWeather meteorologists are alerting snow lovers and those hoping for a white Christmas about the potential for a possible snowstorm in the Northeast around the middle of December. The storm is far from set in stone, but forecasters are recognizing some early signals that a storm could come together and tap enough cold air to produce snow across part of the region during the middle of next week (Wednesday – Thursday).
I know I could use a nice snow… fingers crossed! 🙂
My husband Ken, Mike, and I were able to enjoy a preview of the new Firewater Kitchen & Bar last night! They will be open today at 4pm for reservations. Please email reservations@firewaterkitchen.com and try it out. Note: all mask and social distancing mandates are followed.
The Great Christmas Light Fight premiers on ABC tonight. This season features Allegany County resident, Scott Pennington, and his annual Christmas light display. This year’s display “A Haunted Christmas.” can be visited at 11417 Kreighbaum Road NW, Corriganville, MD 21524.
Two weeks after Thanksgiving, Maryland reported the highest number of COVID-19 deaths at 49.
Locally, the Garrett County Health Department received 86 additional positive COVID-19 results on Wednesday, December 10 bringing the current county total positives to 1,130. The Health Department was also notified of the death of 5 county residents which brings the total county deaths due to COVID-19 or its complications to 14.
The health department reports the updated numbers on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays so we can expect another update after publishing these Daily Notes morning.
The Northern High School Thespian Society will be presenting its second virtual play this year, “Christmas Sprinkles“, on Friday, December 11, 2020, at 7:00 PM. Please email Ms. Jennifer Virts at jennifer.virts@garrettcountyschools.org
Don’t forget to cast your vote in the Festival of Trees virtual tree decorating contest! Visit FOTGC Voting to find out more! Also, the Christmas Light Display and Broadford Park Drive-Thru Lights will put you in the holiday spirit this weekend!
We’re happy to share that we were able to donate nearly $100 for the House of Hope through the sale of our Turkey Day 5k t-shirts! Thank you, thank you, thank you, dear readers!
Also, today, we announce the 2020 DCT December Dash! We encourage our readers to stay active, enjoy our natural resources, and stay energized while social distancing through the holiday season! You can get your t-shirt (short or long-sleeve) here! The shirt is $22 and we will again be making a donation from a percentage of the profits. This time, we’ll be supporting HART for Animals. We appreciate your ongoing support — please message us if you have any questions!
Dec 10, 2020
The weather today will be patchy fog before 11am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy early, then gradual clearing, with a high near 47 and a low around 31. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the morning.
There’s a newly listed poker/game table in our online marketplace. Comes with four chairs. Contact Mark at 301-245-4493 or email mlwhalen1 at verizon.net.
Considering a different holiday getaway? Maybe a road trip on one of Maryland’s Scenic Byways? There are numerous points of interest to customize your own pace, geography, and activities. There are several trips listed here but this one, with Cranesville Swamp, I recommend as something new.
Wisp Resort is elated to announce OPENING DAY! Tomorrow, Wisp will be open for skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing and the mountain coaster. Please note the COVID-19 guidelines in place before your arrival.
We mentioned last week Mountain State Brewery was closed for a week due to COVID-19 concerns — but! they will be back open tomorrow as promised! Have you seen their new igloos?! They look very cool *badum tiss* ha ha no pun intended.
We are sorry to report that, as of December 14th, 2020, Penn Alps Restaurant and Craft Shop will be TEMPORARILY closing due to extremely low customer numbers. There is a 25%-off sale from now until December 13. Try to make it out to Penn Alps and support all of our local small businesses.
Dec 9, 2020
The weather for today will be more of the same. We have a slight chance of snow showers before 1:00 pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 36 degrees and a west wind 13 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%. Tonight, we have a slight chance of snow showers before 1:00 am, mostly cloudy, with a low around 28. West wind 9 to 11 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.
Yesterday I posted a colorful winter sunrise photo submitted by Mark Richards. Here’s another photo from him, this time a “bird’s eye” view of the mountain. Thanks for sharing and nice job Mark. Readers, what “landmarks” can you identify?
Lake-Area Aerial View
Here’s the December issue of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Newsletter. It is filled with all sorts of interesting information including updates on COVID restrictions, arbor day photo contest submissions, mentoring for junior hunters, first weekend hikes and lots more. Definitely check it out.
So you are tired of staying at home during the pandemic. Not much to do. Feeling very isolated. Why not get mariied! We currently have a very nice wedding dress for sale on our Online Marketplace. OK, even if you are already married or do not want to get married, there’s lots of other good stuff for sale on our site. Check the dress and other items out here.
Here’s something interesting and free. Maryland Public Television is offering one of their Freeview Screenings on Friday, December 18th at 7:00 pm. This Freeview is actually a “double feature” that includes a music video and that deals with “food deserts” in the state. Here’s the link to more information and sign-up
The Civic Club of Oakland provides funding for local non-profit organizations every March. This year they were unable to hold their annual Antique and Makers Market, an event that provides the money to fund these worthy causes. To raise money, the club has updated a 1914 cookbook. The “Then and Now” cookbook pairs some of the 1914 recipes with modern recipes provided by club members. It is available for purchase via paypal
https://py.pl/RlKzW or if you are local, email
gfwc.oakland@yahoo.com to arrange payment and delivery. Cost is $15 and the entire amount will be earmarked for non-profit funding in 2021.
Civic Club Cookbook for Sale
The Legacy Business Transition Program, a collaboration between Frostburg State University and Western Maryland Small Business Development Center, was designed as a resource for those looking to sell their businesses due to retirement or for other reasons. The goal of the program is to keep local businesses open and ongoing to provide direct employment and continue to offer goods and services to local communities. The program is free and will assist sellers with generating a business analysis of valuation and selling price, creating a confidential marketing package, listing service and introducing businesses to potential buyers. Buyer services include assisting with due diligence, structuring letters of intent and purchase agreements, financial qualification and post-purchase support. Interested parties can contact Mark Prave at 888-237-9007, ext. 8 or mjprave@frostburg.edu, or visit www.frostburg.edu/legacybusiness for more information.
We just received information about a new report from Outdoorsy looking at the long-term capacity for remote work across the United States. This appears timely in light of the current pandemic, especially as Garrett County is an excellent remote work location. The report found that just over one third of all U.S. jobs could be carried out remotely and ranked states according to the percentage of workers in remote-friendly jobs. In Maryland, 39.6% of all wage and salary workers have a remote-friendly job, defined for the purposes of this analysis as being a job that can be performed entirely remotely. Out of all U.S. states, Maryland has the 2nd highest percentage of workers in remote-friendly jobs.
Dec 8, 2020
We have a slight chance of snow showers before 1:00 pm today. Cloudy, with a high near 30 degrees. West wind 13 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%. Partly cloudy during the early evening, then becoming cloudy, with a low around 22. West wind 8 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph.
Here’s a great sunrise photo submitted by regular reader and photo contributor Mark Richards. Thanks Mark.
Winter Sunrise at the Lake
The Garrett County Health Department received 75 additional positive COVID-19 results since the last report on Friday, bringing the current county total positives to 1,044. The Health Department was also notified of the death of a county resident in their 70s who was a resident of a long-term care facility. This brings the total county deaths due to COVID 19 or its complications to 9. The 7-day positivity rate among Garrett County residents is 17.7% (Maryland rate is 7.9%); The 7-day case rate per 100,000 among Garrett County residents is 122.1 (Maryland rate is 43.9).
The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce has announced Lauren Heilig as the new Membership Development Manager. Lauren holds a BS in Business Administration from Frostburg State University and is a lifelong resident of Garrett County. She has extensive experience in customer service and support, data management, social media and event planning. Lauren has learned a lot about small business from her family and is familiar with the resources and support provided by the Chamber. Welcome Lauren!
The Health Department has scheduled free COVID-19 testing on Tuesdays (9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) and Thursdays (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.), at the MEDCO Building in the McHenry Business Park, located off Bumble Bee Road. There is no out-of-pocket cost to get a test at this site, and appointments and doctors’ orders are not required. All persons waiting to be tested must wear a face covering that fully covers their mouth and nose. When entering the site, follow event signs and watch for traffic personal for directions. Be prepared for a possible wait. For more specifics about the testing events visit garretthealth.org.
Here’s something a little different for a holiday gift. The C&O Canal Trust offers a variety of gift ideas, including a cool calendar, the proceeds of which go to support the canal. Here’s the link to their website.
Here’s an action photo of Marcia Warnick, owner of Cashmere Clothing Company at the Fort in McHenry, wrapping some of the items I purchased for Christmas presents. Nice selection of nice items and at nice prices. There are really some great local options for holiday shopping all around the lake area.
Cashmere & Company
Do you have a vacant commercial building or site in Garrett County? If so, the Garrett County Department of Economic Development is happy to include the property in the ZoomProspector database. Contact Kim Durst at (301) 334-1992 or kdurst@garrettcounty.orgfor additional information.
Dec 7, 2020
Yesterday was overcast and cool – great weather to watch football or read a book. Today, we had another dusting and have a slight chance of snow between 10:00 am and 1:00 pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 31 degrees and a calm wind becoming northwest 5 to 8 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 18 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%. Tonight we have a slight chance of snow showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 21. Northwest wind 7 to 9 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Woke up yesterday to a slight dusting of snow around the lake. Here’s a photo submitted by Ed O’Connor showing the light snow and his pups by water’s edge. It looks like the pups have picked up a scent of a local critter… Thanks Ed.
Dusting at the Lake
As reported previously, Western Maryland has been experiencing a serious surge in COVID-19 cases recently, and the Garrett County and Allegany County Health Departments have sent some additional information out over the weekend. Considering the burden a 14-day quarantine places on individuals, the CDC has published two new options for people who must get back to the essential activities in their lives. Each of the other options increases the chances for further transmission of the virus, and because of this, individuals are still required to use meticulous masking, distancing and sanitizing, etc. for the entire 14-day period.
Quarantine Chart
The Deep Creek Lake Policy and Review Board is holding a virtual meeting on Wednesday December 9th, from 4:00 – 6:00 pm. The online meeting will be held using protocols established by the Office of the Attorney General. This meeting is open to the public, and the public may participate virtually by Google Meet here or by telephone at 917.946.1943 (PIN: 973 175 405#). Please visit the Deep Creek Lake Natural Resource Management Area website for more information on how to participate. A meeting agenda can be viewed here.
The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce is hosting a virtual briefing on December 15th, from 9:00 am – 10:00 am., to discuss what to expect with the upcoming session of the Maryland General Assembly that convenes at noon on January. 13. Chamber lobbyist Dennis Rasmussen of the Rasmussen Group will discuss the new protocols and procedures put into place due to COVID-19, how the chambers and committees will review and vote on legislation, and the priority issues of the legislative leadership. Steve Green, Chair of the Garrett County Chamber’s Legislative Affairs Committee, will review the Chamber’s 2021 Legislative agenda and discuss our priorities. he briefing is free to attend and open to the public but attendees must register to attend. Register on Chamber’s website at visitdeepcreek.com or by contacting Holly Lane at 301.387.6171 by 3:00 p.m. by December 14 to receive the link.
The Ruth Enlow Library is thinking outside the box, or book, to help patrons that may not be able to get to a library during the pandemic. Here’s the scoop: Starting December 15th the library will deliver requested materials and pick-up returns from patrons signed up for the library’s new home delivery service. Patrons can sign up for this free service by calling the Main Library at 301.334.3996 during normal business hours. Patrons may request materials by signing in to their account at www.relib.net or by calling the Library. Materials will be delivered contact-free to their doorstep. There are some limitations, including the inclement weather, so be sure to get the details from the good folks at the library.
Have a great Monday dear readers…
