Apr 1, 2021
Today will be mostly cloudy with Snow showers likely, mainly in the morning. Total snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches possible, with highs in the lower 30s and northwest winds 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 30 mph. Chance of snow 70 percent. Tonight will be mostly cloudy with a chance of snow showers in the evening. Cold with lows around 18. Northwest winds 15 to 20 mph. Gusts up to 35 mph in the evening. Chance of snow 40 percent. Bundle up folks!
Happy April to all our readers! And, that’s no joke… April is the fourth month of the year in the Gregorian calendar, the fifth in the early Julian, the first of four months to have a length of 30 days, and the second of five months to have a length of less than 31 days. Its name is derived from the Latin word aperit, which means to open. It is considered that April is the month of the growing season and when trees and flowers begin to “open”.
Here’s a nice photo submitted by regular reader and contributor Chip Mathieson. Great photo before the snows come and we appreciate your sharing Chip. Thanks!
Reflection in Orange
Speaking of growing and opening, Sarah and I are both opening up to new challenges. I have sold my share of Deep Creek Times to Sarah and she will take over full operations, including Daily Notes, going forward. I know she will do a great job and has some great plans for the future. We will still be partners in GeoComm Media Group (marketing and strategy consulting) and I will be guest blogging here on the Notes from time-to-time. I must say, writing Daily Notes for almost four years has been fun and rewarding and I hope you have enjoyed reading my musings and news items. Thanks for “tuning in” and I wish you all the very best…
Put-and-take trout anglers had their day last Saturday — no matter what your pursuits are, there is nothing like opening day. Here’s a link to the latest State of Maryland Fishing Report, which is produced by Maryland DNR.
Here’s a good deal for you for today only: The Lodges at Sunset Village in McHenry is holding their biggest sale of the year offering 25% off any new reservation in 2021. Today only, rates will appear online starting at 12:01AM, 1/01/21 and will close 24 Hours later at 12:01AM, 1/02/2021. Any date, any stay! Don’t miss the sale of the YEAR! You can call them at 301.387.2227 or go to their website to check availability.
Don’t forget that this afternoon is the cutoff to order your complete Easter Dinner tray for take-out at Alpine Lake Resort. Chef Debbie has assembled quite a “package” of goodies for 6-8 people and a la carte. Here’s the scoop.
If you have questions about COVID-19 or the the vaccines available for COVID-19, consider attending this free, online webinar this evening from 5:00 – 6:30 pm. It is sponsored by the Ruth Enlow Library and includes some insight from some very good health authorities.
If you, or someone you know, is looking for a job in food services, Brenda’s Pizzeria, Ace’s Run, Trader’s Coffee and Firewater are holding a job fair for a variety of positions this Saturday, from 9:00 am – 12:00 Noon. I know that Brenda and team are a cohesive group that treat one another very well and have quite a good retention rate among employees. But visit the job fair and engage and inquire for yourself if interested. Good luck.
Have a great one dear readers…
Mar 31, 2021
Yesterday was clear, warm and quite nice. Today we are expecting showers, with highs in the upper 50s. Southwest winds 5 to 10 mph with gusts up to 20 mph. Chance of rain is 90 percent. Rain showers will continue in the evening. Snow showers after midnight. Cooler with lows in the upper 20s. Northwest winds 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 30 mph.
For those planning to travel this week, note that a blast of cold air that is projected to slash temperatures by 30-50 degrees Fahrenheit in much of the Northeast is coming by April 1st. And AccuWeather forecasters say the winterlike weather is “no joke.” Snow is forecast to fall and accumulate in part of the NE region as cold winds add to the winterlike feel late this week.
Wow! Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) has been recognized as one of the Top 20 Rural and Community Hospitals in the United States in the annual ranking of rural hospitals compiled by the National Rural Health Association (NRHA) and the Chartis Center for Rural Health. The rankings are based on a rigorous assessment of patient data from hospitals across the country using the Hospital Strength Index. Congratulations to the GRMC team!
Hey there fishermen and fisherwomen! Maryland DNR just added 2,500 brown, golden, and rainbow trout to the Youghiogheny river in Friendsville and Oakland! Now you have no excuse not to catch one in Garrett County…
And, speaking of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, they caution homeowners to be alert for non-licensed tree contractors who take money for work that never gets done.
The Sport Fisheries Advisory Commission (recreational fisheries) and Tidal Fisheries Advisory Commission (commercial fisheries) have membership seats expiring June 30, 2021. If you or someone you know is interested in applying for a seat, please apply online by May 1, 2021. The commissioners are appointed by the governor and they advise Fishing and Boating Services on all matters brought to the commissions.
As mentioned in previous Daily Notes, Sarah and I are offering a workshop on Real Marketing (sm) at Garrett College starting April 15th from 5:00 pm – 6:30 pm for a total of eight sessions (ending June 3rd). Real Marketing (sm) for Small and Non-Profit Enterprises is a hands-on workshop series that is designed to help small businesses and non-profits better understand and practice effective marketing. Too often smaller enterprises (and some larger ones) focus on “just” the latest campaign or social media posts, but effective marketing requires much more. Contact Continuing Education and Workforce Development at 301.387.3069 for more information and to register. FYI, there is scholarship money available!
Finally today, here’s some interesting “factoids” from a recent study conducted by WalletHub on Easter-related spending:
- $21.6 Billion: Total Easter-related spending expected in 2021 ($180 per person celebrating).
- $3 Billion: Projected Easter spending on candy.
- $49,000: Price of the world’s most expensive chocolate Easter bunny.
- 78%: Share of people who eat chocolate bunnies’ ears first.
- 60%: Share of parents who plan on sending Easter baskets to their children after they’ve moved out.
Mar 30, 2021
Garrett Regional Medical Center rated as Top 20 rural hospital in United States
Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) was recognized as one of the Top 20 Rural and Community Hospitals in the United States in the annual ranking of rural hospitals compiled by the National Rural Health Association (NRHA) and the Chartis Center for Rural Health. The rankings are based on a rigorous assessment of patient data from hospitals across the country using the Hospital Strength Index.
Achieving the Top 20 ranking puts GRMC in the top 1% of hospitals designated as rural in the United States. The US has a total of 6,090 hospitals, with 30% of those serving rural communities.
GRMC, a clinical affiliate of WVU Medicine, was the only Maryland hospital to make the Top 20 Rural Hospital list as well as the only hospital in the region to achieve this recognition. For the past three years, GRMC has been recognized as a Top 100 Rural and Community Hospital by the NRHA and the Chartis Center. This is the first time the acute care hospital has been ranked among the country’s Top 20 rural facilities.
“This is a tremendous recognition for our hospital, and our staff,” said Mark Boucot, President and CEO at GRMC. “It’s the hard work and dedication of the people working to provide our patients with the best care and experience possible who have made this happen. I can’t thank our employees enough for their dedication to our patients and to our community. Our mission statement says we strive to treat every patient like family, and being named a Top 20 Rural Hospital is evidence of the fact that our staff lives that mission, every day. Our medical staff is second to none!”
In determining the Top 20 Rural Hospitals in the United States, NRHA and the Chartis Center rated hospitals according to market share, quality of care, patient outcomes, patient perspectives, and financial efficiency. GRMC’s approach to providing patient-centered care relies in large part on three frontline councils that allow staff at all levels to have input on hospital operations. The councils – Patient Experience, Patient Safety, and Employee Engagement – encourage input from frontline staff to help address issues throughout the health care facility.
The result is a hospital with a staff that is engaged, empowered, and willing to go the extra mile to ensure the patients and their families receive the care and respect they deserve. The staff’s dedication to quality care has resulted in the 55-bed acute care facility achieving some of the highest patient care ratings in the state of Maryland.
GRMC is the top-rated hospital in the state for reducing hospital-acquired conditions, and has had the lowest all-payer readmission rate in the state for the past five years. GRMC’s surgical site infection rate of 0.08% is far below the national average of 1.9%. “Our hospital has achieved an impressive record over the last few years,” said Charles Walch, MD, Chief of Surgery. “Our surgical site infection rate demonstrates our focus on safety and infection prevention, and it has greatly benefitted our patients.”
GRMC is also ranked in the top 50 hospitals in the United States for its low readmission rates for both COPD patients and for patients diagnosed with sepsis, and was awarded 5 stars by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid in 2020.
“The accolades won by GRMC over the last several years show that the dedication of the people who work here is paying off,” stated Peg Kaiser, MD. “As a physician in our community I am proud to be on staff at Garrett Regional Medical Center. The staff we have is second to none.”
In addition to being recognized as one of the Top 20 Rural Hospitals nationally, GRMC was also recognized for its Maternity Services in 2021 by Newsweek magazine, and is the recipient of back-to-back safety grades of A from the Leapfrog Group, an organization that grades hospitals across the country on issues impacting patient safety and quality care.
“I moved to Garrett County a few years ago to practice family medicine with obstetrics. The high quality of OB care provided at GRMC was the cherry on top. Our statistics really speak for themselves. For instance, we have not had a c-section infection among OB patients since 2016, which really speaks volumes to the quality of care provided by our OB staff- the doctors, nurses, and aids. It truly is a team effort!” said Marlana Bollinger, MD, a Family Practice Obstetrician with the facility.
The hospital has also been named a Best Nursing Home for its Subacute Unit by US News and World Report for seven years in a row. Not only is the care provided of the highest quality, it also amazingly consistent, noted Kendra Thayer, CNO & COO.
“The quality of care at GRMC is second to none,” Ms. Thayer said. “We focus on quality of care across all of our departments, clinics, and services. We were awarded 5 stars by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid last year; our staff’s attention to quality and consistency is one of the reasons why.”
Mr. Boucot agreed. “All of this success is attributable to our staff,” he concluded. “They make the difference because they really do treat patients like family.”
For more information about the hospital, visit www.grmc-wvumedicine.org.
Mar 30, 2021
Today’s weather will be sunny, with a high near 66 degrees. Light south wind increasing to 5 to 10 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph. Tonight we have a chance of showers after 2:00 am. Increasing clouds, with a low around 46. South wind 3 to 6 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%.
As I mentioned yesterday, early blooming plants such as daffodils are emerging with their vibrant colors. Here’s a (bit blurry) photo of another, smaller plant that has begun blooming on the mountain. I don’t know the name of these fellows but they are all around and a sign of what is to come!
Spring Wildflower
Jean and I went for a nice dinner at Ace’s Run Saturday evening. From our window seat we could see the “action” at Firewater, with lots of folks waiting in the neat outdoor waiting area. It was a constant flow of folks coming to the site and then being seated. From the crowds it looks like Brenda has another winner on her hands. Well done!
March Madness is taking place at Cashmere Clothing Co. in McHenry! Stop in and grab a deal! It is also the Military March, and the shop is a very proud supporter of all active and veteran military members! Show your ID for your special savings.
Maryland providers have administered a total of 2,564,507 COVID-19 vaccines and are averaging a new record-high 49,732 shots per day. According to the CDC, 37.9% of Maryland’s population age 18 and older has received a vaccine, including 73.9% of Marylanders 65 and older.
Join CCPL and A Likely Story Bookstore for New York Times bestselling author Stephanie Dray, in conversation with author Karen White. Stephanie’s new book, The Women of Chateau Lafayette, is an epic saga based on the true story of an extraordinary castle in the heart of France and the remarkable women bound by its legacy. This is a virtual event starting at 7:00 pm this evening.
With Spring upon us, the traditionally busy real estate sales season gets under way. While real estate is hot these days and inventory is down due to demand, here’s some interesting data-driven tips from Zillow that show features and verbiage that impact home sales and prices realized.
With April being Stress Awareness Month and America’s biggest stressors in 2021 being money problems and the COVID-19 pandemic, the personal-finance website WalletHub yesterday released its report on 2021’s Most & Least Stressed States, as well as accompanying videos. Maryland came out pretty well. To see Maryland’s and other states’ rankings check out the report. And, don’t get stressed over it…
Mar 29, 2021
Got a serious thunder storm in the wee hours Sunday morning after a really great Saturday. Sunday night we got a slight dusting of snow! Expect today to be partly sunny through mid morning, then becoming sunny, with a high near 48 degrees. Breezy, with a west wind 11 to 21 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph. Tonight should be clear, with a low around 32. Calm wind.
Thinking of all of our readers and friends celebrating Passover this week… God bless…
Even after a somewhat harsh winter, plants of all types are starting to emerge. These daffodils in my yard were just a small “shoot” a few days ago and then they bloomed Saturday. The lake area is transforming for Spring.
Spring’s First Flowers
The latest Action Group created on the Garrett County Planning Tool found @ mygarrettcounty.com originated as a collaborative effort of medical providers in the community who have an interest in reducing childhood obesity. The group is just beginning to lay out the goals, strategies, and how they will measure their progress. Check out the brand new Healthy Weight Workgroup here: https://mygarrettcounty.com/groups/increase-adolescent-well-child-checks/healthy-weight-workgroup/
Monoclonal antibodies appear to be a viable early treatment for COVID after some administration to patients and evaluation of results. Maryland moved quickly to offer the antibodies, the same thing used to treat then-President Donald Trump’s infection in October. And the state has been working since to promote and expand access to the lab-made immune system builder — the lone therapy for those who are not hospitalized. The Baltimore Sun has an article on the topic.
Make a commitment to get more physical activity this month! For practical advice on how to get started check out the blog post titled, Haley’s Top Ten Tips at https://gogarrettcounty.com/haleys-top-ten-tips-3-prize-points/
A new report by Outdoorsy looking at the U.S. states that generate the most revenue from RV parks and campgrounds and ranked states according to annual sales at RV parks and campgrounds. On average, Maryland generates $54,997,000 from RV parks and campgrounds each year, or $90,969 per year for every 10,000 residents. RVing has certainly caught on during the pandemic and with all of our area’s natural beauty, the Deep Creek Lake region will likely be a prime destination.
And, speaking of Maryland, with participation from dozens of citizens across the Free State, Maryland Public Television has created an American Portrait TV special showing what makes you and your fellow citizens uniquely Maryland. Join the virtual premiere screening event to get a sneak peek of the PBS American Portrait – Maryland Special. It is tonight at 7pm.
Finally today, here’s a photo submitted by reader and regular contributor Dee Dave of a “local” exploring the area as Spring emerges. It is the simple natural, unplanned experiences like these that make our area so neat to live in and visit. Thanks for sharing Dee.
Exploring
Have a wonderful Monday and rest of the week dear readers…
Mar 23, 2021
Yesterday started off sunny but it turned cloudy by late morning. Today we have a chance of rain, mainly before noon. Patchy fog before 11:00 am. Otherwise, partly sunny, with a high near 62 degrees. Southeast wind 6 to 8 mph becoming south in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 30%. Tonight will be partly cloudy, with a low around 50.
Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan announced yesterday that the state would by the end of April double the amount of mass coronavirus vaccination clinics in the state by opening, or expanding existing, clinics in six of its most populous counties.
Locally, Garrett County has a 7-day case rate of 7.39 per 100,000; 1,889 confirmed positive tests to-date; 61 COVID-related deaths to-date; zero current COVID-related hospitalizations; 35,407 COVID-19 tests administered to-date; and 24.3% of the County population has been vaccinated to-date. Thanks go out to all involved at every level of testing, treatment and vaccination. We appreciate you!
Consulting firm 1:1 decided to look at the number of searches for the most common keywords used by consumers searching on Google for a golf course to play, comparing 2019 searches to 2020. Searches for Maryland courses were up a very respectable 80% year-over-year.
A shout-out to the Garrett College Lady Lakers basketball team. They have been hard at work since early this fall, with many practices in preparation for this shortened season. The Lady Laker’s record is currently 3-3. “We have been improving as a team each game, and everyone on the team plays an important role,” according to Head Coach J.T. Lewis.
Even as the snow season seems to be coming to an end this year, many will never forget the massive blizzard of 1996 that paralyzed the state for days on end with record snowfalls. Here’s a link if you want to check it out.
I heard from Kelly McDonagh at St Peters in Oakland about a virtual conference being put on by the Augustine Institute. The virtual bible conference is scheduled for Saturday, March 27th and is free on Zoom. Here’s the scoop on registration.
Mar 23, 2021
Well, the nice weather “party” looks to be over for the time being folks. We are expecting rain for all or part of most days this week and into the weekend. Today will be partly sunny, with a high near 57 degrees. Tonight we have a chance of light rain before 2:00 am, then a chance of rain after 2:00 am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 43. Southeast wind 9 to 11 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%.
After posting the photo of the tree and plaque on the GRMC campus in yesterday’s Notes, I heard from Anne Forrester, former Civic Club of Oakland president from 2000 – 2002. Anne reports that the Civic Club has a long history of planting trees in memory of deceased members. Two that come to mind for Anne are trees for Dottie Leighton and Anne Grant that were planted on the grounds of the Historical Society when she was president. Thanks for the info Anne…
Attention all Mission: Four’dable quad pack holders at Wisp! Now’s the time to use all those tickets up after a great winter. Be sure to utilize all of your Mission: Four’dable quad pack tickets before they expire on Wisp’s projected closing day of Sunday, March 28th.
As we have reported previously, real estate around the lake is VERY hot at present. Here’s a photo of a postcard I received from Railey Realty yesterday.
Hot Real Estate Market
Don’t forget to submit your nominations for a special mom to get what she really wants for Mother’s Day – a family photo session in a flower field. Winner will receive a shopping experience with Cashmere Clothing Co, a cupcake bouquet by Mountain Flour Bakery, flowers, and location of shoot by Three Sisters Farm. Nice idea!
Don’t forget to join the U.S. Census Bureau today at 4:00 pm this afternoon for their Thank You Campaign event, in which the Bureau will express their deep appreciation, share how to continue partnering with you between now and 2030, and introduce you to some of the options available to you for using the data that the Bureau gathers.
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. Today’s event starts at 6:00 pm in Accident.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources stocked three waterways in Garrett County yesterday. Get ’em while their hot…or I guess I should say cold:
- Muddy Creek: 1,000 golden and rainbow trout
- Savage River (Closure 2 until 5:30 a.m. 3/27/21): 2,500 golden and rainbow trout
- Youghiogheny River (Catch and Release): 2,000 rainbow trout
Mar 22, 2021
The weekend was great. Today’s weather will be sunny, with a high near 61 degrees. Southeast wind 6 to 8 mph. Tonight will be mostly clear, with a low around 34.
During a visit to the doctor on the GRMC campus the other day, I parked next to a stone marker and tree that I had probably “seen” 10 times before but never noticed. One more example of the history (man-made and natural) all around us that we may not notice in our daily travels. Here’s a photo of the marker. Not sure of the date, though the tree looks “old.”
A piece of the past
If anyone has any history on the plaque and tree let us know at info@deepcreektimes.com and we will share with our readers.
As Sarah reported the other day, it appears that Rolling Pin Bakery is taking over the space at Annie’s Country Kitchen in Accident. Glad the space will be utilized and hopefully, jobs will be saved/created. I also heard that Annie’s has already closed due to the fact that they “ran out of food.” I guess a lot of folks, including me, wanted to have one last visit. Good luck to the Annie’s team and to Rolling Pin as well.
The Property Owners’ Association of Deep Creek Lake has been busy this winter working on several important items for the health of the lake. Along with the Policy and Review Board, they attempted to get Brookfield to lower the lake for a month to help kill off near-shore sub-aquatic vegetation (SAV). Brookfield responded that it could not do it this year due to power generation commitments but would try to accommodate in the future. Here’s the POA’s latest newsletter with lots of good information.
Governor Larry Hogan announced in a press conference on Thursday that Maryland will open up Phase 2 COVID-19 vaccination eligibility in waves based on risk factors, including age, essential occupations, and underlying health conditions.
The State Board of Education will host its monthly meeting today (starting at 10:00 am) and tomorrow in a hybrid format. The meetings will be conducted via livestream with some Board Members attending in-person. I wanted to share this since school openings are very much on everyone’s minds across the state and the nation. Today’s meeting will begin at 10:00 am, and the agenda and materials are available at:
http://marylandpublicschools.org/stateboard/Pages/meeting-agendas/2021/2021-03-22.aspx The Tuesday meeting will begin at 9:00 am, and the agenda and materials are available at: http://marylandpublicschools.org/stateboard/Pages/meeting-agendas/2021/2021-03-23.aspx
The State of Maryland and the Forever Maryland Foundation are proud to announce that 91 Keep Maryland Beautiful grants totaling $312,500 have been awarded toward environmental education, community cleanup, and beautification projects through the Keep Maryland Beautiful program. I must say that I was a bit disappointed to learn that none of these grants went to Garrett County organizations. Not sure why…
Finally, a “factoid” on Cicadas for you all: This is the year that Brood X makes its appearance from Georgia to New York after hiding underground since 2004. Cicadas can sometimes reach a density of 1.5 million adults per acre! Not sure if it will get bad around these parts, but thought the density statistic was interesting.
Have a great day dear readers…
Mar 21, 2021
Garrett County Following Maryland’s Lead in Vaccination Priorities
By Garrett County Joint Information Center Team
Governor Larry Hogan announced in a press conference on Thursday that Maryland will open up Phase 2 COVID-19 vaccination eligibility in waves based on risk factors, including age, essential occupations, and underlying health conditions.
Garrett County is currently offering appointments to people using information collected from the Garrett County COVID-19 Vaccination Interest Form launched last week on garretthealth.org. A one-time use invitation is being emailed to interested persons in the priority order as listed on the website, which follows the pyramid released from the state. Persons without email addresses are being called.
The Governor’s announcement now makes additional persons eligible for vaccination on the specific date listed for each phase. However, vaccine availability continues to be lower than current demand, so eligibility does not mean appointments will immediately be available.
Phase 2A: Tuesday, March 23. Eligibility opens for residents age 60 and older. According to Maryland Department of Health data, nearly 90% of the state’s COVID-19 deaths are in the 60+ age range.
Phase 2B: Tuesday, March 30. Eligibility opens for residents age 16 and older with underlying medical conditions that increase the risk for severe COVID-19 illness. According to CDC data, nearly 90% of individuals hospitalized for COVID-19 have an underlying medical condition.
Phase 2C: Tuesday, April 13. Eligibility opens for residents age 55 and older, as well as essential worker in critical industries, including food services (i.e. restaurant workers), utilities, construction workers, transportation, financial services, IT, and other infrastructure.
Phase 3: Tuesday, April 27. Eligibility opens for all residents 16 and older.
Anyone living in Garrett County and wishing to receive the COVID-19 vaccine should visit garretthealth.org to fill out the Garrett County COVID-19 Vaccination Interest Form. 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.
Mar 17, 2021
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:
- Accident Pond: 700 golden and rainbow trout
- Bear Creek Closure 1 until 5:30 a.m. 3/27/21): 3,000 golden and rainbow trout
- Broadford Lake: 3,000 golden and rainbow trout
- Glades Park Pond (Youth & Blind): 800 golden and rainbow trout
- Herrington Lake: 1,500 golden and rainbow trout
- Mill Run Closure 1 until 5:30 a.m. 3/27/21): 1,000 golden and rainbow trout
- Piney Reservoir: 1,000 golden and rainbow trout
Happy St. Paddy’s Day to all…
Mar 16, 2021
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!
Mar 15, 2021
Letting Go of Tobacco
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.
Mar 15, 2021
Garrett County COVID-19 Cases Increase
By Garrett County Joint Information Center Team
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.
Mar 15, 2021
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.
Mar 15, 2021
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…