The weather will be sunny! Today, will be sunny with a high near 45 and a low around 24. Northeast wind 14 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. Saturday will be sunny with a high near 50 and a low around 28. East wind 3 to 7 mph. Sunday will be sunny with a high near 54 and a low around 30. Calm wind becoming southeast around 6 mph in the afternoon.
AccuWeather National Reporter Dexter Henry asked the National Park Service (NPS) Public Affairs Specialist Michael Litterst when he expects this year’s bloom to reach its peak, given last year’s exceptionally early blossoming. “The historic average day of peak bloom is right around April 3, April 4…” Litterst said. The peak bloom date is the period during which 70 percent of the Yoshino cherry blossoms are open, and it varies each year depending on weather conditions, according to the NPS.
I read this on social media yesterday: The three black lines or “rub rails” on school buses serve a purpose. The bottom line is the floor of the bus. The middle line is the seat line. The top black line is the top of the seats. These lines of the bus reinforce the walls of the bus but they also let firefighters know where to cut in case of an accident.
Maryland will enter Phase 2A of the COVID-19 vaccine distribution plan on March 23, making the vaccine open to people 60 and older. Effective immediately, any Marylander over 60 can pre-register at one of state’s mass vaccination sites by visiting covidvax.maryland.gov or calling 1-855-MD-GOVAX.
On March 30, Phase 2B will start for all Marylanders age 16 and older with underlying medical conditions that increase the risk for severe COVID-19 illness.
On April 13, Phase 2C will start for all Marylanders age 55 and older, as well as essential workers in critical industries (construction, food services, utilities, financial services, IT and other infrastructure).
Phase 3 will start no later than April 27, when eligibility will open to every single Marylander over the age of 16.
Hogan said that just because you become eligible for a vaccine does not mean you can immediately get a vaccine. Supply will be ramping up to meet the demand, but state officials expect demand to continue outpacing supply for at least the next several weeks.
The Knights of Columbus are raffling off a beautiful handmade afghan to raise funds for charities. Tickets are available for $1.00 each in the St. Peter the Apostle Church Parish Office at 208 S. Fourth St., Oakland, MD 21550 or 301-334-2202 or from any Knight. The drawing is Mother’s Day, May 9.
Here is the most recent trout stocking update:
Jennings Randolph Lake: 1,500 golden and rainbow trout
North Branch Potomac River, Gorman: 1,000 golden and rainbow trout
North Branch Potomac River, Kitzmiller: 1,500 golden and rainbow trout
North Branch Potomac River, Westernport: 2,000 golden and rainbow trout
The DCL Property Owners Association sent this message out regarding local contributions:
United Way of Garrett County has helped fund education, food distribution and family needs for decades in our community. It is only through your continued generosity that our friends and neighbors who struggle can have hope for a better future. The POA has supported the United Way of Garrett County for the last 13 years and helped raise well over $100,000. They are the hand-raisers, the game-changers and the problem-solvers in our community. United Way’s local website at CUW.org is undergoing an upgrade this Spring, so please use the following info in making contributions. Mail contributions to United Way of Garrett County, PO Box 394. Oakland MD 21550. To make a credit card payment or arrange a monthly contribution, please call Misty Deal at 240-362-8647.
The weather today will be rain. Patchy fog before 11am. High near 56 and low around 27. Southeast wind 7 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 21 mph. New precipitation amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible. Tonight will be rain before 3am, then rain and snow likely. Patchy fog after 9pm. Northeast wind 6 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New snow accumulation of less than a half-inch possible.
Isolated instances of wind damage and hail from thunderstorms are possible this afternoon and evening, mainly south of US Route 48.
Mike mentioned the other day that, unfortunately, Annie’s Kitchen in Accident will be closing as the owner is retiring. There is a silver lining as Rolling Pin Bakery has announced they will be moving into the space along Main Street. YUM … I’m drooling thinking about their fresh donuts now …
Also, Fast Cash Grantsville will be opening in early April. Located in the Grantsville plaza.
A reminder for those visiting us from outside of Maryland: Our state government has said that masks are required in public settings indoors and recommended when gathering with people outside of your household. For more information, see Masks on Maryland.
Although the Closure 1 and 2 put-and-take trout fishing areas are closed until March 27, the Closure 0 areas continue to be stocked with trout. Most of these trout waters are lakes and ponds and they are getting generous stockings. The ponds offer safe and easy access for our younger anglers, and some are set aside for their exclusive use. Be sure to check the trout stocking website to see the areas stocked this week.
I found this photo of the lake from this time last year. I love it:
The United Way survey we shared yesterday didn’t have a clickable link. Here it is: uwcm.org/COVIDsurvey
Yesterday was mixed: clouds, then a little rain, then the sun came out. Today, expect patchy drizzle and areas of fog before 10:00 am. Otherwise, cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 60 degrees. Tonight we will have showers, mainly after 2:00 am with a low around 44.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day folks. Saint Patrick’s Day is a feast day honoring St. Patrick, patron saint of Ireland. Born in Roman Britain in the late 4th century, he was kidnapped at the age of 16 and taken to Ireland as a slave. He escaped but returned about 432 to convert the Irish to Christianity. Just thought I would share a little history to complement all of the modern revelry. Have a great day!
United Way in Maryland yesterday announced a joint effort to survey families affected by the pandemic throughout the state. The COVID-19 Survey will aim to gather information from residents about how their employment, housing and basic needs have been impacted. This survey is confidential; no private information will be shared. For more information, and to help United Way in Maryland accurately assess the need in their communities, visit uwcm.org/COVIDsurvey.
The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce is collecting information from Chamber members for in-county events running from May 2021 – May 2022, and select events* will be printed free of charge in the upcoming 2021/2022 Activities Guide. To submit your event for the Activities Guide, please send the event name, date and website url or a phone number to sarah@garrettchamber.com close of business today. Just the event name, date and a website url or a phone number are needed and will be printed.
Deep Creek Lake area real estate is hot at present so I thought I would share a new study from Inspection Support Network looking at the U.S. locations with the most, and fewest, homes for sale. At the national level, a combination of strong demand and weak supply resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic has drained inventory and pushed prices to record highs. However, not all real estate markets have been affected to the same degree. In Maryland, there was an average of 11,834 active listings per month in 2020. Altogether, there were 81 active listings per 10,000 owner-occupied homes, compared to the national average of 124. Out of all states, Maryland has the 5th fewest homes for sale. Interesting.
In celebration of Women’s History Month, in collaboration with Morgan State University and University of Maryland Global Campus, Maryland Public Television (MPT) invites you to join them for a special event honoring the legacy of Black women suffragists and their impact on the leaders of today. The virtual event will take place starting at 7:00 pm on March 31st. Sounds interesting. Here’s the link to register.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has sure been busy. Here’s the latest trout stocking efforts in Garrett County as of yesterday:
Yesterday was nice and sunny until the clouds showed-up late afternoon. Today we have a chance of freezing rain before 9:00 am, then a chance of rain. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 48 degrees. Southeast wind around 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 50%. Tonight we have a slight chance of light rain and patchy fog. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a low around 41. East wind around 6 mph becoming light and variable in the evening.
Looking for some really fresh fish? Maryland DNR stocked 4,100 golden and rainbow trout in nearby Allegany County yesterday. Stockings were made at Battie Mixon, Cotton Cove Pond and Evitts Creek. Note that Evitts Creek is closed until March 27th.
So sorry to hear that Annie’s Kitchen in Accident is closing soon due to the retirement of the owner. Annie’s has been a staple for many locals and visitors over the years and serves nice home cooked meals and desserts. Annie’s will be missed.
With the arrival of warm weather in Garrett County, we should expect and be prepared for the reemergence of ticks. Several species of ticks are known to the area and have been waiting out the snow and freezing temperatures to appear. Local species include what is commonly known as the Deer Tick or Black Legged Tick (Ixodes scapularis), the Dog Tick (Dermacenter variabilis), and the Lone Star Tick (Amblyomma americanum). Check your pets and yourself after being outdoors.
Garrett County has seen an increase in COVID-19 cases in the past week. A total of 25 new cases have been reported since March 8th, bringing the new total to 1,873. The case rate for the county is now 12.31 per 100,000 residents, and the positivity rate is 6.3%. At this time masks are still required even if you have been vaccinated. Currently 22.3% of Garrett County residents have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine. Please be careful folks…
For over three decades, the Western Maryland area has come to rely on WFWM our local NPR affiliate in Frostburg for great programming. Their Fund Drive takes place from March 22-27, but you can make your gift NOW by clicking here. They will kick-off their 2021 drive with on-air shout-outs to all of our loyal listeners who gave ahead of time. To hear your name on the air, simply make a gift to WFWM today!
The Garrett County Health Department will be offering two free Quit Now classes to help individuals who would like to kick the nicotine habit. Both classes will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 1, 2021. Class will be held at the Grantsville Town Hall and at the Bloomington Fire Department.
Maryland’s state park rangers are busy preparing for Park Quest 2021. Park Quest will open on May 1 and run through October 31 this year. The 2021 Park Quest theme is Spread Your Wings to Explore Maryland’s State Parks, and many of the quests will help you to learn more about Maryland’s birds! Similar to 2020, most quests will be “Do-It-Yourself” and there is no longer a Park Quest Passport or registration required, so this program is accessible to everyone! Keep an eye on the Park Quest website in April for additional details!
By Diane Lee, Public Information Officer, Garrett County Health Department
The Garrett County Health Department will be offering two free Quit Now classes to help individuals who would like to kick the nicotine habit. Both classes will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 1, 2021.
Class will be held at the Grantsville Town Hall and at the Bloomington Fire Department. COVID-19 safety protocol will be followed for these in-person classes, which means that masks must be worn. Throughout the six weeks of classes, participants will receive many resources to help them change their habits including a notebook with many tools, group support from others who are also trying to quit smoking, and free cessation aids in the form of nicotine patches, nicotine gum or the prescription drugs, Chantix or Zyban.
Participants also have access to the Maryland Tobacco Quitline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW. This Quitline gives tobacco users access to a “Quitting Coach” for help seven days a week. Anyone from the general public can use the hotline as well.
Just twenty minutes after you quit smoking, your body begins a series of healthy changes that continue for years. Your heart rate and blood pressure drop in the first twenty minutes. Within a month of quitting, your circulation improves and your lungs begin to clean out built-up tar and mucus. One year after quitting, your risk of heart disease becomes half that of a smoker’s.
Even with all the positive reasons to quit smoking, it can still be overwhelming. Tobacco becomes a part of the smoker’s life, and change is hard. But change can happen with the right support and tools to guide you.
For more information about the upcoming classes or to register, contact the Garrett County Health Department at 301-334 7730 or 301-895-3111. The classes, cessation aids, and Maryland Tobacco Quitline are funded by the Maryland Cigarette Restitution Fund Program.
Garrett County has seen an increase in COVID-19 cases in the past week. A total of 25 new cases have been reported since March 8th, bringing the new total to 1,873. The case rate for the county is now 12.31 per 100,000 residents, and the positivity rate is 6.3%.
“We are seeing a resurgence of the virus in Garrett County,” said Garrett County Health Officer Bob Stephens. “Our local and state contact tracing efforts have not identified a specific cluster. This is not the time to become complacent. If we can get ahead of this current spike through taking the proper precautions it will save lives. We are making good progress in our vaccination efforts, but we must be responsible as individuals and as a community for a little while longer if we want to keep schools and businesses open.”
Despite the recent easing of certain restrictions in Maryland, the statewide masking order remains in effect. Masks or face coverings are required to be worn in any public indoor facility and also in all public outdoor areas whenever it is not possible to maintain physical distancing. At this time masks are still required even if you have been vaccinated. Currently 22.3% of Garrett County residents have received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine.
With the case count increasing in Garrett County, it is important to get tested if you have symptoms or have been exposed to someone who tests positive. If you have COVID-19 like symptoms, schedule a testing appointment at the Health Department by calling 301-334-7697. Testing is also available (with or without symptoms) on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the MEDCO Building in the McHenry Business Park. Pre-registration is recommended. Visit garretthealth.org for more information.
If you are interested in receiving the COVID-19 vaccine, visit garretthealth.org to fill out the Garrett County COVID-19 Vaccination Interest Form. Although Garrett County is currently only vaccinating residents in Phase 1, the form may be filled out by any Garrett County resident, regardless of their current qualification status. For those unable to access the interest form, call 301-334-7698 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for assistance.
NOTE: Completing the interest form does NOT create an appointment to be vaccinated. It may take several weeks, or longer, until participants are contacted to schedule an appointment because of limited vaccine supply.
For all other COVID-19 related questions, or to report a COVID-19 compliance issue, call the local COVID-19 Hotline number at 301-334-7698.
Warm Spring Weather Brings Out Various Species of Ticks
By Diane Lee, Public Information Officer, Garrett County Health Department
With the arrival of warm weather in Garrett County, we should expect and be prepared for the reemergence of ticks. Several species of ticks are known to the area and have been waiting out the snow and freezing temperatures to appear. Local species include what is commonly known as the Deer Tick or Black Legged Tick (Ixodes scapularis), the Dog Tick (Dermacenter variabilis), and the Lone Star Tick (Amblyomma americanum).
Each of these species can carry one or multiple pathogens that can affect humans and animals. The most common pathogen is the bacteria that causes Lyme’s Disease. Data collected from the Companion Animal Parasite Council shows that in 2012 one out of twenty dogs tested positive for Lyme’s Disease, and in 2020 one out of five dogs tested positive. It is important to treat your household pets with a vet-recommended treatment to prevent ticks from catching a ride into your home and to protect your pets from a painful and life-threatening disease.
Most ticks follow the same general life cycle, progressing from larvae to nymph to adult. Adults are active in the late fall and spring, nymphs emerge in the spring and can be found throughout the summer, and larvae hatch in the summer and are active until fall. Once the snow melts and temperatures rise, be on the lookout for adult and nymph staged ticks on your pets and yourself when spending time outside.
The Office of Environmental Health is performing ongoing tick assessments and surveys to be able to share what risks are associated with ticks in Garrett County. Check in at garretthealth.org/ticks/ for current information as the tick surveillance program develops.
Yesterday was sunny and fairly warm, but very windy. Today will be sunny, with a high near 41 degrees, with an east wind around 7 mph. This evening expect rain, snow, and sleet before 3:00 am, then freezing rain and sleet likely. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 31. Southeast wind 6 to 9 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Limited accumulations possible.
There’s still ice on large swaths of the lake. With the wind yesterday, the ice (and slush) in the middle of the lake was pushed by the wind toward the shores in some areas. I have actually never seen the ice pushed that fast or far on the lake before.
Special thanks go out to the Oakland Elks Lodge: The Oakland Elks Lodge recently received a Beacon Grant through the Elks National Foundation of the Grand Lodge of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks for $3,500 to donate to Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) for the purchase of PPE. Way to go to help keep us all safe!
Well, my wife and I both got our second COVID vaccine shots last week. And, as usual, the professionals and volunteers up at the MEDCO building in McHenry did a wonderful job. I must say, we both feel thrilled to have our shots and to be building some immunity. We both had “reactions” to the shots and were sore, tired and had chills the next day, but that is a small price to pay in our opinion. We see the light at the end of this long pandemic tunnel…
Garrett County has followed Governor Hogan’s new COVID-19 guidance as of this past Friday and eased some restrictions. Please note, and to parphrase Commissioner Edwards, we should not let our guard down at this time. Here’s the press release for your information and review.
Local chef Larry Roby is still doing well in the Favorite Chef Competition, which is now in week four and narrowing down to the top 5 in each group. Thanks to all that have voted and that are continuing to vote, Larry remains in first place in his group and shares his appreciation. Please consider a vote for Larry in the next four days. Here’s the link: https://favchef.com/2021/larry-roby
Don’t forget that March is Women’s History Month. Here’s a link to some neat facts from the United States Census Bureau. For example, did you know that there were 166.6 million females in the United States as of July 2019. There were 161.7 million males. In 2010, there were 157 million females and 151.8 million males.
We are still seeing a lot of guesses submitted for the Deep Creek Times’ “Where am I?” Photo Contest. Sarah made this month’s photo an easy one. If you submit the correct guess and your entry gets selected, you can win a $25 gift certificate to a local restaurant. Good luck!
Have a wonderful Monday dear readers and a great rest of the week as well…
Garrett County Easing COVID-19 Restrictions Per Governor’s Orders
March 12, 2021, Oakland, MD – In a press conference on Tuesday, March 9th, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan announced the end of some restrictions and the reduction of others. These changes do not signal the end of the pandemic. Other safety measures remain in effect to continue to protect the many Marylander’s who have not yet been able to be vaccinated.
Garrett County will follow the lead of the state and adopt the changes in the COVID-19 mitigation measures beginning at 5 p.m. on Friday, March 12th.
One of the key protective measures that remains in effect is Maryland’s statewide masking order, which requires masks or face coverings to be worn at any public indoor facility and in all public outdoor areas whenever it is not possible to maintain physical distancing.
Some of the changes that will take effect on Friday include:
Capacity limits will be lifted on outdoor and indoor dining at restaurants and bars, retail businesses, religious facilities, fitness centers, casinos, personal services, and indoor recreational establishments. Bars and restaurants will be open for seated and distanced service only—patrons may not stand at a crowded bar.
Large outdoor and indoor venues may begin operating at 50% capacity. This includes theaters; concert, convention, and wedding venues; racing facilities, and outdoor entertainment and sporting venues.
Medical adult day care centers may reopen, with facilities able to set appropriate restrictions and safety measures.
Quarantine requirements and other restrictions on out-of-state travel will be lifted. However, a Maryland Department of Health (MDH) travel advisory will remain in place, and Marylanders are encouraged to get tested for COVID-19 upon their return from out-of-state travel.
The Governor also announced that the Western Maryland mass vaccination site at the Prime Outlets in Hagerstown will open on Thursday, March 25
“Please understand that adjusting some of the restrictions does not mean we are no longer at risk,” said Board of Garrett County Commissioners Chair Paul Edwards, “We must all continue to take personal responsibility for our safety.”
All Garrett County Government buildings and facilities have reopened to the public but appointments are requested and masks must be worn.
COVID-19 information for Garrett County is available at garretthealth.org. Anyone with medical questions about the virus may call the Health Department COVID-19 Hotline at 301-334-7698.
The weather today will be showers, mainly before 8am. High near 54 and low around 28. West wind 7 to 13 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. Saturday is mostly sunny with a high near 48 and a low of 29. Sunday will be partly sunny with a high near 48 and a low around 24.
The Barn at Lakeshore will be available for reservations beginning on September 15, 2021.
Make your guess in the March “Where Am I?” contest.
The Tri-State News Center reported that a murder-suicide will be investigated by the Garrett County Sheriff’s Department. Police responded to the 400-block of Garrett Highway on March 9 for a report of a person wounded by a suspected gunshot.
First Lady Yumi Hogan has compiled the recent “Artists in Maryland: Visual Art” publication. Two Garrett County artists — Sue Arnson and Joan Chaney — are featured. Sue’s selected work, “Grantsville Farm,” is a 16×20″ watercolor. Joan’s quilt, “Glacier Pines” is an 86×86″ piece selected as fiber art.
Several highlights of the 2021-22 school calendar are:
September 7: First day of school for students
October 15: Schools closed for Autumn Glory
November 25, 26, 29: Schools closed for Thanksgiving break
December 24-January 2: Schools closed for Winter break
January 17: Schools closed for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
February 18: Schools closed for Presidents’ Day
April 15 and 18: Schools closed for Easter break
May 30: Schools closed for Memorial Day
June 4: High School Graduation
June 7: Last day of school for students – 3-hour early dismissal
The Maryland legislature voted to override the governor’s veto and approved a bill to enact a $1.75 per pack increase in the state cigarette tax. I’ve seen mention that that tax will go into effect tomorrow.
The Oakland dog park is closed until further notice: The gate to the small dog park was broken due to ice. The conditions at the park are still very wet and the caretakers want to ensure the turf doesn’t get damaged.
Governor Larry Hogan announced the end of some restrictions and the reduction of others during a press conference on Tuesday, March 9th. These changes do not signal the end of the pandemic. Other safety measures remain in effect to continue to protect the many Marylander’s who have not yet been able to be vaccinated.
Garrett County will follow the lead of the state and adopt the changes in the COVID-19 mitigation measures beginning at 5 p.m. on Friday, March 12th.
One of the key protective measures that remains in effect is Maryland’s statewide masking order, which requires masks or face coverings to be worn at any public indoor facility and in all public outdoor areas whenever it is not possible to maintain physical distancing.
Some of the changes that will take effect on Friday include:
Capacity limits will be lifted on outdoor and indoor dining at restaurants and bars, retail businesses, religious facilities, fitness centers, casinos, personal services, and indoor recreational establishments. Bars and restaurants will be open for seated and distanced service only—patrons may not stand at a crowded bar.
Large outdoor and indoor venues may begin operating at 50% capacity. This includes theaters; concert, convention, and wedding venues; racing facilities, and outdoor entertainment and sporting venues.
Medical adult day care centers may reopen, with facilities able to set appropriate restrictions and safety measures.
Quarantine requirements and other restrictions on out-of-state travel will be lifted. However, a Maryland Department of Health (MDH) travel advisory will remain in place, and Marylanders are encouraged to get tested for COVID-19 upon their return from out-of-state travel.
The Governor also announced that the Western Maryland mass vaccination site at the Prime Outlets in Hagerstown will open on Thursday, March 25.
Additional COVID-19 resources:
Garrett County residents visit garretthealth.org to schedule a COVID-19 vaccination appointment or to fill out an interest form to be contacted when an appointment may be available for you. Current qualifying individuals include Phase 1A, Phase 1B (including individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities), or those at least age 65. For assistance in registering call 301-334-7698.
If you have COVID-19 like symptoms, schedule a testing appointment at the Health Department by calling 301-334-7697.
Free COVID-19 testing is available (with or without symptoms) on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the MEDCO Building in the McHenry Business Park. Pre-registration is recommended. Visit garretthealth.org for more information.
For all other COVID-19 related questions, or to report a COVID-19 compliance issue, call the local COVID-19 Hotline number at 301-334-7698.
A popular event of the annual Garrett County Autumn Glory Celebration is changing hands. The Grand Feature Parade, held on the Saturday of Autumn Glory festivities, has been traditionally organized and presented by the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce. After discussion with the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the Greater Oakland Business Association (GOBA) and the Town of Oakland were given the opportunity to assume responsibility of the parade, at the request of GOBA.
The request came after GOBA conducted a self-evaluation about the benefits that it offers to its membership. The GOBA Board believes allowing GOBA and Town of Oakland to be responsible for the Autumn Glory Grand Feature Parade will provide greater value and return to the members and free up the Chamber to concentrate on what provides greater return to theirs. By taking responsibility of the parade a greater opportunity is presented for investment in Oakland’s community, both professionally through GOBA and personally with the citizens of Oakland.
GOBA President, Fred Gregg stated, “Assuming the administration of the Autumn Glory Grand Feature Parade provides an outstanding opportunity for the Town of Oakland and the Greater Oakland Business Association to showcase our area and the attractive amenities we have to offer. We are dedicated to organizing a parade that our residents, businesses, and civic groups will be proud of and benefit from. We appreciate the assistance and cooperation the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce so generously provided.”
While an official determination on the fate of the parade for 2021 has not been decided, the committee is moving forward with plans. More details will be forthcoming.
The weather today will be mostly cloudy with a high near 67 and a low around 46. A slight chance of showers after 4pm. Southwest wind 11 to 17 mph, with gusts as high as 31 mph. The chance of precipitation overnight is 90%.
Governor Hogan Announces Lifting of Capacity Limits, Masking and Distancing Protocols Maintained — view the press conference video below, the presentation slides, or press release on the changes taking place tomorrow, March 12 at 5pm.
Mark Parkinson, president and CEO of AHCA/NCAL recently said, “While we are still reviewing the (CMS) guidance, the indication that nursing home residents can visit with their loved ones is welcome news that we fully support.” According to the updated guidance, facilities should allow responsible indoor visitation at all times and for all residents, regardless of vaccination status of the resident, or visitor, unless certain scenarios arise that would limit visitation.
Join the MD Fishing Roundtable at noon to discuss the Maryland Artificial Reef Initiative (MARI) and its importance for the angling community. Online: meet.google.com/nin-oxru-zju or by phone: (US) +1 413-308-2423 PIN: 687 957 026#
Put-and-take trout anglers need to take notice that Closure 1 trout management areas are closed to fishing from March 7 until March 27. Closure 2 areas will be closed from March 21 to March 27. Closure 0 areas remain open at all times. To understand the different closure areas, descriptions can be found in the Maryland Fishing Guide or the trout management areas map link on the trout stocking website.
Funds remain available in the Hotel Relief Grant fund. Eligible Garrett County hotel, motel, and bed & breakfast establishments are encouraged to apply. APPLICATION DEADLINE – MARCH 15, 2021. Learn more.
2021 — Our 28th Season May Happen!
We want to thank all our supporters and attendees for helping us have a successful 27th season way back in 2019. With about 16% of Garrett County currently vaccinated, the State is working hard to catch-up, and President Biden promising enough doses for all adults by the end of May, we are hoping for a mini-season in August and early September. No bookings yet, but that’s in-progress. We probably will have some restrictions in place such as requiring vaccination, masking, and reduced capacity. Other options may involve other venues for accessibility and safety.
As more information becomes available, we will update our web calendar and send email and postal mail notices.
Your investment is vital to our continuation of Music at Penn Alps offerings! There are several ways to contribute:
• Amazon SMILE is a painless way to contribute. Pick us as your donation option and every purchase results in a small free [to you] contribution.
• IRA donations are extraordinarily valuable to you and us if you are 70 1/2 or older.
Donations are gratefully accepted by mail or on-line! Your generous investment will supplement the support of the Community Trust Foundation, the Naylor Foundation, Garrett Arts Council, Allegany Arts Council, Somerset Bank, and others. Tickets continue at $20. Those 19 and under are admitted free.
The Garrett County Health Department currently has openings for COVID-19 vaccination appointments in March and has launched a form for persons to indicate their interest in receiving the vaccine.
Links to schedule vaccine appointments are posted on garretthealth.org for Garrett County resident who have not yet been vaccinated in Phase 1A or 1B, including those who are with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Residents who are at least age 65 are also eligible for these appointments. Persons who are in one of these categories and need help with scheduling an appointment may call the Health Department at 301-334-7698 for assistance.
In addition, the Health Department has launched an interest form on their website for Garrett County residents to fill out if they wish to receive a COVID-19 vaccine, regardless of where they fit into the priority groups designated by the state. The Health Department will use information received from the interest form to contact participants when vaccination appointments are available for them to schedule. The form may be filled out by persons who do not yet qualify for vaccination, or by anyone when appointments are not available because of the limited number of vaccine doses distributed to Garrett County.
Completing the interest form does NOT create an appointment to be vaccinated. It may take several weeks, or longer, until participants are contacted to schedule an appointment because of limited vaccine supply. Other vaccination sites in Garrett County include Walgreens and Walmart pharmacies who receive shipments of vaccine directly.
Additional COVID-19 resources:
If you have COVID-19 like symptoms, schedule a testing appointment at the Health Department by calling 301-334-7697.
Free COVID-19 testing is available (with or without symptoms) on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the MEDCO Building in the McHenry Business Park. Pre-registration is recommended. Visit garretthealth.org for more information.
For all other COVID-19 related questions, or to report a COVID-19 compliance issue, call the local COVID-19 Hotline number at 301-334-7698.
