Wednesday February 10

Feb 10, 2021

Today we have a slight chance of snow before 9:00 am, then a slight chance of snow and freezing rain between 9:00 am and 10:00 am, then snow likely after 10:00 am. Patchy fog late morning and then after 2:00 pm. Otherwise, cloudy, with a high near 32 degrees. Little or no ice accumulation expected. New snow accumulation of around an inch possible.Tonight we expect snow with patchy fog around 25.  Chance of precipitation is 80% with new snow accumulation of 3 to 5 inches possible.

You can check out the bigger picture of the next storm from AccuWeather here. If you scroll down you can see the Deep Creek Lake area in the purple shading.

Herrington Manor State Park yesterday reported a nice base of 8″ -10″ on their cross country trails, with one inch of “fresh fluff” as of yesterday morning.  Their Red, Blue and Green trails are open and were last groomed on February 3rd.  Due to the pandemic, they are still not offering ski and snowshoe rentals.  You can call them at 301.334.9180 for more information.

Maryland providers have now administered 727,828 COVID-19 vaccines, and 85% of all first doses received from the federal government have been given. The daily average for shots administered increased today to 24,871. I finally found a benefit to being over the age of 65.  I am scheduled to get my COVID vaccine today.  I have never been this excited to get a shot before!

Michele Liston, branch manager of the Friendsville branch of the Ruth Enlow Library, has announced her retirement effective at the end of February.  A 32-year veteran of the Library and fixture of the Friendsville community, she will be greatly missed by many. We wish her the best and thank her for all her years of service to the community.

The Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission (MMCC) announced yestereday that effective February 16th, all licensing and registration forms will be available on the statewide licensing portal Maryland OneStop (onestop.md.gov), including patient and caregiver applications, provider registrations and certifications, clinical director applications, business license and registration applications, and cannabis agent registrations. Please contact onestop.mmcc@maryland.gov with any questions.

The Garrett County Public Schools announced that the annual comprehensive kindergarten registration program will begin on February 16, 2021. This program is for all children entering kindergarten for the first time in August 2021. Children who will be five years old by September 1, 2021, are required to register for kindergartenHere’s some feel-good environmental stories for you, from both fresh and marine environments.

The Garrett County Public Schools also announced that they will be accepting applications for Pre-Kindergarten starting February 16th. To be eligible for this program, a child must be 4 years old by September 1, 2021. Interested persons need to complete a pre-kindergarten application online or at the school within their district.

Despite a challenging 2020, NOAA Habitat continued protecting, restoring, and telling stories about habitat and its value to fisheries and communities. Here are the stories, videos and topics that surfaced as some of their most popular content throughout the year. Some inspirations for us within the Deep Creek Lake watershed I think.

Finally today, the Garrett County Health Department is sponsoring the distribution of Narcan at community sites around the county. Individuals can pick up Narcan and receive education on how to administer it. Narcan is a medication designed to rapidly reverse opioid overdose. It can quickly restore normal breathing to someone who has experienced an opioid overdose. Pickup events will take place from 6:00 – 7:00 pm at the following dates and locations:

• 02/16 – Mountain Lake Park Town Hall
• 02/23 – Deer Park Community Building
• 03/02 – Grantsville Park, Volleyball Court Pavilion #3
• 03/09 – Bloomington Fire Department
• 03/16 – Loch Lynn Town Hall
• 03/23 – Accident Town Hall

Tuesday February 9

Feb 9, 2021

Crisp and clear day yesterday.  Today a little snow is likely, mainly before 1:00 pm. Cloudy, with a high near 36 degrees and a west wind around 9 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New snow accumulation of less than one inch possible. Tonight will be cloudy, with a low around 22.

Don’t forget to vote today if you live in Friendsville.  The Friendsville town elections will be held in their town hall on Chestnut street.  Here’s more information.

I beleive that things are picking up and looking better relative to COVID vaccinations and incidence.  As of yesterday, Maryland providers had administered 699,733 COVID-19 vaccines, and 84.3% of all first doses received from the federal government have been given. Further, 12.30% of the Garrett County population has been vaccinated (first doses). To-date, the County has 1,821 confirmed positives and 57 deaths.

Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) has again been awarded an ‘A’ by the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade a national distinction recognizing Garrett Regional Medical Center’s achievements in protecting patients from harm and providing safe health care. GRMC continues to “rock it” on many levels and we are all very fortunate to have them in our rural community.  Here’s more details on their latest recognition. Way to go Mark and team!

Just heard that State Farm Agent Andy Nelson has opened an office right beside Shentel opposite of the Walmart intersection in Dr. Wolfes old office. Andy is taking over a part of Rob Michael’s previous book of business since Rob has recently retired. Andy plans to work hard to fill the shoes of Rob and continue his legacy of providing excellent customer support and integrity to the community.  Feel free to call Andy at 301.859.4040. We wish Andy and his new team the best.

Join the Ruth Enlow Library today for a 30-minute lesson from the kitchen for healthy ideas on what to do with canned tomatoes with Howard County’s SNAP Ed’s educator, Razan Sahuri. The event starts at 2:00 pm with registration required.  Here’s the scoop

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is seeking public comment on the proposed fiscal year 2022 annual work plans for the following state forests: Chesapeake/Pocomoke, Green Ridge, Potomac-Garrett, and Savage River. The comment period concludes March 5th. Annual work plans help the department identify priorities within the scope of the forests’ long-range management.

And, speaking of the DNR, they have posted the proposed 2021-2022 Migratory Game Bird Seasons for public review and comment through Feb. 26. The department’s website also features a short presentation detailing the remaining steps in the regulatory process, data updates, and the status of the Atlantic Population (migratory) Canada goose population. Citizens can provide input online, by phone at 410.260.8540.

February is National Pet Dental Health Month! Schedule your pet’s appointment for a free oral screening and assessment at the Bredel Clinic at HART on Bumble Bee Road, and receive 15% off any dental work when you schedule your appointment within 30 days after your pet’s dental assessment. Call them at 301.387.7729 for details nd to schedule. Gee, I wonder if this applies to my pet guppy, aka “JAWS?”

Monday February 8

Feb 8, 2021

We had a nice weekend weather-wise, with lots of skiers in town.  The weather for today will be mostly sunny, with a high near 33 degrees. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming light and variable. We have a slight chance of snow showers after 1:00 am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 22. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Don’t forget that the Kitzmiller Lions Club is currently holding a Soup Sale! Order your soup by the quart or by the gallon. Chili, Vegetable Beef, and Chicken Noodle available.  Why not combine your soup pick-up with a trip to the history-rich Kitzmiller area of Garrett County.

And, speaking of local Lions Clubs, the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club is still looking for experienced skiers to serve as sighted guides at Wisp this week and February 16 and 17th.  Contact Joey Simson at 301.616.4586 or at jsimson14@gmail.com for more information.

Garrett County will be famous! Well, it is already pretty famous, but Maryland Public Television (MPT) will be featuring a farm in Garrett County on the next Maryland Farm and Harvest show.  It is scheduled to run this Tuesday at 7:00 pm.  Tune in.

The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Center recently had two electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging stations installed by Potomac Edison, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp. The stations are among the first such units the company has installed in its Maryland service area. Now, I just need a new Tesla!

The Deep Creek Lake Policy Review Board will hold its first meeting for 2021 at 4:00 pm this afternoon. Public Attendance is virtual only. Join on Google Meet: meet.google.com/ebd-cxyi-bte Or by phone: 978-484-0550 (PIN : 465087870).

Here’s a quick factoid for you folks: When Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine recently asked readers if the pandemic had taken a toll on their retirement nest egg, 84% said “no” and that they were on track, and 16% said “yes,” due to lower earnings, dialing back contributions and/or having to take a loan or withdrawal from their retirement account.

Don’t forget that MoonShadow Restaurant is offering an outdoor firepit complete with free s’mores (with the presentation of a Wisp ski pass). Call ahead because seating may be limited! 240.442.5542.

Have a wonderful Monday dear readers…

Friday February 5, Saturday February 6, Sunday February 7

Feb 5, 2021

It seems as though there is “a lot of weather” that will be happening throughout the upcoming weekend:

The weather today will be a chance of snow showers and freezing rain before noon, then a chance of snow showers between noon and 5pm. Patchy fog between 11am and noon. Otherwise, cloudy, with a temperature falling to around 25 by 11am. West wind 15 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 32 mph.

Saturday snow showers are likely, mainly before 7am then partly sunny, with a high near 30 and a low of 19. West wind 8 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 28 mph. New snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.

Sunday will have snow and freezing rain likely before 1pm, then a slight chance of snow between 1pm and 4pm. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a high near 29 and a low around 12.

A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for much of the area until 10 AM this morning. There is a slight winter storm threat late Saturday night into Sunday. If the threat materializes, it may cause travel disruptions.

Heads-up! Tryouts and in-person signups will be held on February 20 and 21 for Oakland Little League for spring 2021 youth baseball and softball teams.

Visit the Maryland DNR website for the latest update regarding Maryland’s opportunities for outdoor recreation to follow guidelines on the safe enjoyment of our natural resources.

There are two new electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging stations in Garrett County. Recently installed by Potomac Edison, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp, the stations are among the first such units the company has installed in its Maryland service area.

A big welcome to David Jochynek as Garrett County’s newest State Farm agent! He is taking over the book of business from the recently retired Rob Michael.

Take your guess in this month’s “Where Am I?” contest! Congratulations to January’s winner Trevor Lewis!

Try out MoonShadow restaurant’s Firepit and Free S’Mores. Call ahead because seating may be limited! (240) 442-5542.

There was a mountain of snow to remove on Turkey Neck Road this week. Thanks, Jerry Jirgl, for sending this photo to us!

Thursday February 4

Feb 4, 2021

The weather today will be mostly sunny with a high near 37 and a low around 31. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the morning. Tonight, snow could be possibly mixed with rain; new snow accumulation of less than one inch possible.

We have verified the last snowstorm left 18.88″ of snow from Sunday early morning through Wednesday morning.

Here’s a photo from yesterday from Dot Sisler:

From the MD DNR “Mid-Winter” Fishing Report: “Everyone wants to know if the ice is safe on Deep Creek Lake … for ice fishing. Anglers have been venturing out on the coves of Deep Creek Lake and finding 5 inches to 7 inches of ice. Those that venture out on the ice do so at their own risk — ice less than 4 inches thick is not advisable for ice fishing, and remember that ice is never 100% safe. The ice is also covered with snow which tends to provide insulation from cold night temperatures and slow down the process of thickening. Ice-fishing anglers are catching yellow perch and walleyes with tip-ups that are baited with minnows and fished close to the bottom. Jigging with small spoons or jigs that are tipped with maggots are a great way to catch crappie and bluegills….”

There is an excellent base for cross-country skiing! Herrington Manor reported a 6-7″ base and has groomed several trails. Note: In accordance with Governor Hogan’s emergency actions … Herrington Manor State Park is not offering ski and snowshoe rentals at this time.

Garrett County Board of Education voted on February 2, 2021, to accept the Superintendent’s plan for the return to in-person learning. February 22: Employees return to buildings. March 1: PK, K, Gr 1, and identified students return full days on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays. Wednesday is an asynchronous day. March 15: Grades 2-12 return full days on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays. Wednesday is an asynchronous day. Here is the list of the “return to school expectations“.

Wednesday February 3

Feb 3, 2021

We are in a winter wonderland for sure after the past few days of snow.  The weather for today includes a chance of snow showers before 1:00 pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 24 degrees, with a west wind around 17 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%. Tonight will be partly cloudy, with a low around 13. West wind 10 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Glenda at Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) just sent us their measurements for temperature and precipitation for the month of January.  The average high temperature for the month was 35.2 and the average low was 20.1 degrees.  They measured rain for January at 1.04 inches and frozen precipitation at 7.2 inches. Thanks for sharing Glenda. I should note that we are looking for some addional measurement sources for these winter months.  More information to follow in the future as we try to provide a broader view of area  conditions.

The MD DNR Forest Service is now accepting reservations for the 2021 Backyard Buffer Program in Garrett and Allegany Counties! Landowners in these counties with a stream, drainage ditch, or other waterway on their property are eligible to receive a packet of 25 tree seedlings for planting on their property. Seedlings will be available for pickup sometime in April. More information will be sent to program applicants once pickup details are finalized. Requests to participate must be received by March 19th (or when the program reaches capacity). Sign up using the Google form here.

The winter months are the time of year that people spend the least amount of time outdoors. This mean that children whose parents or caregivers smoke are most at risk for experiencing the health effects of secondhand smoke. So, the Garrett County Health Department is promoting a campaign to “Go Out for Your Kids.” The “Go Out for Your Kids” campaign recommends that smokers never smoke in their homes or their cars, instead opting to smoke only outdoors. Another option is to quit smoking. The Garrett County Health Department provides ongoing Quit Now classes or phone support at no cost. Nicotine patches, gum, or lozenges are available, as well as Chantix or Zyban. For more information or to register for support, call the health department at 301-501-8574 or the Maryland Quit Line at 1-800-QUIT-NOW or www.kickingtobacco.com.

While housing and tourism seems to be booming around the lake, I know many businesses, especially in the service sector and to varying degrees, have been seriously hurt by the pandemic. Some recently released national statistics support that.  Measured year-over-year, the economy contracted 3.5% in 2020, the largest decline since just after WWII.  The good news is that the national economy grew at a seasonably adjusted 2.5% in the fourth quarter, on top of a strong third quarter.  The bottom line is we are possibly seeing the clouds part and maybe some sunshine of late.  Let’s hope it continues.

First United Bank & Trust appears to always be on the forefront of embracing banking innovation.  Click here for some information on their latest digital banking efforts.

Tuesday February 2

Feb 2, 2021

Well, it snowed just about all day yesterday.  I am guessing we received about 12 inches total the past few days and we are still under a winter storm warning.

Today we have a  chance of snow showers before 10:00 am, then a chance of snow showers, freezing rain, and sleet between 10:00 am and noon, then snow showers likely after noon. Cloudy, with a high near 22 degrees. Northwest wind 9 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. Little or no ice accumulation expected. New snow and sleet accumulation of 1 to 2 inches possible. Tonight, snow showers likely, mainly before 1:00 am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 13. Northwest wind around 14 mph, with gusts as high as 29 mph. New snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches possible.

The Kitzmiller Lions Club is currently holding a Soup Sale! Order your soup by the quart or by the gallon. Chili, Vegetable Beef, and Chicken Noodle available. Quarts are $9, Gallons are $36.  Orders and money due by February 12th. Soup pick up will be at the Coal Bucket Restaurant on February 16th. You can contact the Kitzmiller Club through their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/Kitzmiller-Lions-Club-267611003276677 or email Stephanie at schoch705@gmail.com to order.

The Garrett County Health Department will allow persons age 65 through 74 to begin scheduling appointments as soon as the vaccine is available . These are the only groups that will be eligible to schedule appointments from the Phase 1C group at this time. Links will be available on Garrett County Health Department’s website, garretthealth.org, for COVID-19 vaccine appointments whenever slots are available, and removed whenever the appointments are filled. Announcements will be made on the Health Department’s website, Facebook page, and local news media when a new link is available for registration.

The Maryland Municipal League (MML) invites all eligible Maryland 4^th graders to participate in the “If I were Mayor” essay contest. This year’s theme is Teamwork through flexibility, respect, leadership, and civility. This year, the contest prompts students to answer the following questions: If you were Mayor…1-List an issue you think is a problem in your city/town/community.  2- What would you change to help solve the problem? And 3- While everyone is virtual, how would you bring people together to help. All essay submissions are due by March 30th by midnight. However, digital entry forms must be turned in by noon on March 30 in order to receive the Dropbox link necessary to submit the student’s essays. See the link above for more information and complete contest rules.

Here’s a link to some interesting state statistics relative to the pandemic, COVID cases and vaccinations.  It seems like we are gaining momentum statewide and locally.  I keep hoping that more vaccinations become available locally so we can take care of our community, as the state and nation also recovers.

Governor Hogan’s office reports that hundreds of volunteers from the Maryland Responds Medical Reserve Corps are supporting vaccination clinics across the state. Sign up to volunteer at a vaccination clinic. The State of Maryland has launched a grassroots public outreach and equity campaign to promote vaccine confidence. These vaccines are safe, effective, and authorized for use by our country’s leading medical experts. Join the GoVAX campaign. To receive additional updates, text ‘MdReady’ to 898-211. Marylanders are also encouraged to visit covidlink.maryland.gov to review vaccine safety and efficacy information.

Garrett Regional Medical Center’s recently opened new primary care facility on Wolf Acres Drive, located at the site of Dr. Daniel Miller’s former practice, continues to accept new patients. Garrett Family Medicine provides comprehensive primary care services for people of all ages, from infants and children through those in need of geriatric care. The clinic’s primary care provider, Brooklyn Ayersman, a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP), provides services that include diagnosing conditions, prescribing medication, and dictating patient care.

This is an interesting opportunity for the right entity: The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) is seeking public and private nonprofit organizations to serve free, nutritious meals to children and teens this summer thorough the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) program. The deadline for applications is May 31st. For more information about the SFSP, please visit www.eatsmartmaryland.org. Interested organizations should contact the Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs at 410.767.0199.