Apr 24, 2024
Maryland Insurance Commissioner Kathleen A. Birrane has issued industry Bulletin 24-11: The Use of Artificial Intelligence Systems in Insurance, which provides regulatory direction to insurance companies regarding their use of artificial intelligence.
The AI bulletin is premised on the model adopted unanimously by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners in December 2023 under the leadership of Commissioner Birrane, who serves as chair of the association’s Innovation, Cybersecurity and Technology Committee. The model bulletin was the product of a collaborative bi-partisan effort by U.S. regulators “to establish clear, principals-based guidelines that promote the responsible and ethical use of AI systems by the insurance sector,” Commissioner Birrane said.
The bulletin reminds carriers that when they use advanced analytical and computational technologies like AI to make decisions that impact consumers, they must comply with all applicable insurance laws and regulations, including Maryland’s unfair trade practice and anti-discrimination laws. The bulletin sets out the Insurance Administration’s expectations for the development and deployment of AI systems, including the establishment of a written program that focuses on governance, risk management and internal controls. Because carriers are responsible for any unfair discrimination that results from their use of predictive models and other AI systems, the bulletin encourages carriers to use validation and testing methods to identify error and unfair bias. The bulletin also advises insurers of documentation that the Insurance Administration is likely to request during an investigation or examination.
“AI technologies have become, and will continue to be, a critical tool for closing the insurance gap,” Commissioner Birrane said. “But the very nature of the technology creates risks that require strong controls, particularly where the technology is deployed to make decisions that can harm consumers.”
To that end, the bulletin:
- Sets the expectation that carriers will establish a written governance, risk management and controls for its use of AI systems that address the entire life cycle of both the AI system and the relevant insurance product and will be prepared to provide that written program and evidence of compliance with the program in response to inquiries by the Insurance Administration about AI system use.
- Identifies the elements that a carrier should consider in developing its AI systems program, including internal oversight and accountability oversight, data standards and controls, validation and testing, and diligence on third-party data and models.
- Directs that controls utilized with respect to any AI use case be commensurate with the risk of consumer harm that could result from that use.
”Our expectation is that carriers will use the principles and the guidelines set out in the bulletin to establish an AI program that is designed to ensure that its use of AI is ethical, responsible and compliant with regulatory requirements,” Commissioner Birrane said.
Apr 23, 2024
A Bar-B-Q’ed Beast Tradition
Food and beer enthusiasts have reason to celebrate as Craig Frazee and Brandy Wilt officially announce the opening of their latest venture, Brewery and the Beast, slated for May 2024. This unique brewpub will be located alongside Xtreme Power Sports, directly behind the beloved Rolling Pin Bakery.
Brewery and the Beast is a new hot spot combining craft beers, unique cocktails, and exceptional food all under one roof. Each week the brewery will be offering Sunday brunch, live music, and outdoor dining.
“We are the one and only brewery brewing beer on site in Garrett County since Deep Creek Brewing closed over 20 years ago,” said Wilt.
The brewpub is currently under construction but is promising an inviting atmosphere where guests can savor the robust flavors of locally brewed beer alongside gourmet BBQ-inspired dishes. With years of experience behind the grill of the Bar-B-Q’ed Beast food truck, the duo is excited to introduce the concept of a brewery that pairs uniquely crafted beers with high-quality cuisine.
While the menu is BBQ inspired, it isn’t necessarily what people expect when they hear the word barbeque. The Brewery and the Beast concept is focused on quality, fresh from scratch items featuring smoked meats. Also, the food truck will be operating from the parking lot of the new restaurant until opening day.
“This isn’t just about great beer or great food alone—it’s about how the two can come together and be a great place to hang out in our community,” said Frazee. The brewery will start by offering a selection of beers brewed on-site, with plans to distribute in the future.
The menu at Brewery and the Beast will feature classic staples like pulled pork and smash burgers, as well as inventive dishes like hog fries, fried chicken served with a donut, and green apple coleslaw.
The brewpub will also continue to offer catering services, ensuring that their distinctive flavors can be enjoyed at events and gatherings throughout the region.
The grand opening is be scheduled for May 2024.
Find their food truck schedule on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/p/Brewery-and-the-Beast-61555500653419/
Apr 23, 2024
The weather today will be mostly sunny, with highs in the upper 60s. Except in the lower 60s at the higher elevations. Southwest winds of around 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph.
Summer Sines, RN III, received the quarterly DAISY Award at Garrett Regional Medical Center. This award honors exceptional nursing care, reflecting the DAISY Foundation’s mission to recognize compassion in nursing.
‘Tis the season for ramps and morels!
Preserve regional biodiversity! Bring gloves, kneeling pads, weeding tools, and elbow grease to remove unwanted plants from the Native Plant Garden. Learn to identify weeds and why native plant protection is vital for wildlife. Meet at the native plant garden near the Lake House.
Embark on a 4-mile hike with Ranger Noah for an exciting Take a Hike Tuesday adventure.
Enjoy 10 for $10 Tuesday’s at The Greene Turtle with its Bone-In Wings deal! Plus, $2 Drafts.
Join Coffee, Tea & Trauma Recovery this afternoon with the Dove Center at Shoofly Java. Followed by healing yoga at Jitterbug Movement Studio. It’s a safe, judgment-free space for relaxation and learning without the need for sharing deep trauma histories.
Ranger Noah and Student Intern Maddy invite you to a moderate-to-difficult 2-mile hike on Tree Talk Tuesday. Discover 16 labeled native trees in the park and join their series of tree talks, each focusing on different species.
Apr 23, 2024
Summer Sines, RN III, was recently named the quarterly recipient of the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses® at Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC). This award is part of the DAISY Foundation’s mission to recognize the extraordinary, compassionate nursing care that nurses provide patients and families every day.
Sines was nominated by a patient’s spouse.
“I will never be able to put into words how much Summer’s care meant for my husband,” stated the patient’s spouse on the nomination form. “Summer not only took wonderful care of him but made sure I had everything I needed during one of the hardest days of our lives. She is an asset to the hospital and her patients. When things were at their worst, she went above and beyond – she is extraordinary!”
“Summer has an incredible work ethic, and this is exemplified by the level of care and compassion she provides to her patients each day,” said Kendra Thayer, Vice President of Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Officer at GRMC and Potomac Valley Hospital. “She is known for going above and beyond in taking care of her patients and is a highly valued team member here at GRMC.”
The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes by members of his family. The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families.
More than 2,000 health care organizations nationally participate in the award program. GRMC began participating in the program in 2018.
Nurses may be nominated by patients, families, and colleagues. The award recipient is chosen by a committee at GRMC through a blind selection process sanctioned by the DAISY Foundation.
For more information on Garrett Regional Medical Center, visit www.wvumedicine.org/Garrett.
Apr 22, 2024
Monday, April 22, 2024: The weather today will be sunny with a high near 54 and a low around 34. West wind 5 to 7 mph becoming light and variable.
Ms. Kaitlyn Bolyard, a Special Education teacher at Yough Glades Elementary in Garrett County Public Schools, has been named the 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year.
GCPS, with Howard Shockey & Sons, Inc., seeks trade subcontractor and vendor bids for Southern Garrett Elementary School Pre-K to 6th Grade Additions, Renovations, and Modifications at Southern Garrett Middle School. Learn more in the linked article.
Missed the EGGstreme Easter Egg Hunt at New Germany State Park? No problem! Throughout April, you can still participate. If you find any eggs while hiking, bring them to the Ranger Station (open daily, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM) to exchange for candy!
The Maryland Commission on Civil Rights, in collaboration with Garrett College, presents “Dimensions of Diversity” today from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM at the Performing Arts Center, Garrett College.
Celebrate Earth Day Work Day – Pulling Invasives by assisting park staff in removing garlic mustard and other harmful invasive plants throughout the park. No experience is necessary.
The Maryland Commission on Civil Rights, Garrett College, and Garrett County NAACP host a Listening Session from 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM at the Performing Arts Center, Garrett Community Center. Be part of an interactive discussion on diversity, discrimination, fair housing, and more.
Explore the forest’s beauty under the full moon on a 1-mile hike with Ranger Noah. This hike coincides with the “Pink Moon,” the second full moon of spring. Remember to bring a flashlight or headlamp to illuminate your way.
Apr 22, 2024
Bringing the Beauty of Poland to the Beauty of Deep Creek
A unique Polish Pottery and Gift store, Polska Polish Pottery of Deep Creek Lake is set to open in Dry Dock Plaza on May 10th. Offering authentic, handcrafted, traditional & Unikat (translated to “unique”) Polish Pottery, gifts, and apparel direct from Poland, the store will offer a taste of “all things Polish.”
The owners, the Blazejewski family, are originally from Lublin, Poland but have been in the United States since the mid 70’s and have been in the Polish pottery & gift business for over 30 years. After their success with stores in the Wyoming Valley Mall (Wilkes-Barre, PA) and King of Prussia Mall,PA, Polska Polish Pottery aims to merge the cultural heritage of Poland with the natural beauty of Deep Creek Lake.
Shoppers can expect to find an extensive selection of handmade, hand-painted, pieces crafted in Boleslawiec, Poland. This includes a wide selection of designs. They also offer Pysanki hand-painted collectible wooden eggs and distinctive gifts found nowhere else in this area.
The pottery is microwave, dishwasher, and oven safe. It is chip resistant and also lead- and cadmium-free. Collectible, durable and functional Polish Pottery has a rich heritage that dates back as far as 6000 B.C. Each piece is created in in Boleslawiec from locally sourced white clay and fired in kilns at temperatures in excess of 2,250 degrees Fahrenheit with a lead free glaze. This creates a product that is strong and sturdy.
Polish Pottery comes in two distinct pattern types, traditional and Unikat. The traditional peacock pattern uses colors that were associated with royalty. Polska Polish Pottery is celebrated for its durability and functional beauty. Each piece is not only a collectible item but also perfectly suited for daily use, bringing a touch of Polish craftsmanship to everyday life.
Join Polska Polish Pottery of Deep Creek Lake for their Grand Opening Weekend Celebration May 10th-12th. On May 10th they will open at 12 noon with a ribbon cutting at 4pm. On Saturday (Open 10am-7pm) there will be music, Polish food (available from GHP Restaurant of Uniontown, PA) and special guests & fun! Store hours on Sunday (Mother’s Day) are 11am-6pm. Enjoy a shopping experience like no other!
Follow updates and special events at the Deep Creek Store on their Facebook Page “Polska Polish Pottery of Deep Creek.” You can also find them on Instagram & TikTok. Their website is https://polskapolishpottery.com/.
Apr 21, 2024
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS), in partnership with Howard Shockey & Sons, Inc., is actively seeking and accepting trade subcontractor and vendor bids for the Southern Garrett Elementary School Pre-K to 6th Grade Additions, Renovations, and Modifications at Southern Garrett Middle School. This is an excellent opportunity to demonstrate your expertise and contribute to this significant project, as outlined in the contract documents, which include the Drawings and Specifications prepared by BFM Architects Inc. and the Howard Shockey and Sons subcontract agreement.
Two pre-bid meetings will be held at the project site, 605 Harvey Winters Drive, Oakland, MD. The first meeting will be held on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, from 3:45 PM – 5:00 PM. The primary focus of this meeting will be General Bidding Procedures and Site & Architectural Scopes of Work. The second meeting will be held on Thursday, April 25, 2024, from 3:45 PM – 5:00 PM. The primary focus of this meeting will be General bidding Procedures and Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing Scopes of Work.
For additional information on this project, please visit https://www.gcps.net/Page/2209 and select the Invitation to Bid dropdown.
Apr 19, 2024
Garrett County Public Schools (GCPS) has named Ms. Kaitlyn Bolyard the 2024-2025 Teacher of the Year. Ms. Bolyard is a Special Education teacher at Yough Glades Elementary. She has taught for 9 years and has been in her current position for 4 years. Ms. Bolyard received her Master’s Degree in Special Education from California University of Pennsylvania (2020) and a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education from Frostburg State University (2014).
She coordinates special education services for her school and implements Specially Designed Instruction. She works to promote inclusion practices and increase acceptance of students with disabilities. Ms. Bolyard facilitates professional development focusing on inclusion practices and providing Specially Designed Instruction at the school and county levels. She is the head coach of the Yough Glades Unified Bocce team and a Lead Special Education Teacher for GCPS.
Dr. Chelsie Manges, Director of Special Education, commends Ms. Bolyard, stating, “Ms. Bolyard is an exceptional teacher who consistently exceeds expectations to provide her students with the support they need to succeed. Her dedication to advocating for students with disabilities is unparalleled, and she tirelessly ensures they have access to the resources they need to thrive.”
Dr. Brenda McCartney added, “Ms. Bolyard is a shining example of the dedication and passion our teachers bring to their classrooms daily. Her commitment to her students and her profession is truly inspiring, and we are honored to have her represent GCPS as our Teacher of the Year.”
Ms. Bolyard will go on to compete for the Maryland State Teacher of the Year, which should be announced in October. For information about all GCPS Teachers of the Year, please visit www.gcps.net/TOY.
Apr 19, 2024
The weather today will be mostly cloudy. Scattered showers in the morning, then showers and scattered thunderstorms in the afternoon, with highs in the lower 60s and a low of 39. Southeast winds of around 5 to 10 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph, becoming southwest in the afternoon. The chance of rain is 90%. Saturday will be sunny, with highs in the mid-50s and a low of 32. West winds of around 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph. The chance of rain is 30%. Sunday will be partly sunny, with highs in the lower 50s and a low of 33.
Be part of the Employer Signaling: Infrastructure Investments Index pilot project! Share best practices and discuss shared infrastructure priorities. Complete the brief survey by April 26 to participate.
Help the Maryland Department of Agriculture by completing a survey on local restaurants serving Maryland seafood, including invasive species like Blue Catfish and Snakehead. Your input will assist in promoting these businesses on the website, social media, and statewide awareness campaigns.
Apply for funding through Americana Corner’s Preserving America Grant Program! Grants are available for restoring historical objects, creating educational displays, or enhancing historic sites for visitors. Open to 501(c)(3) organizations. Funding requests must be between $5,000 and $10,000.
Explore trauma and learn to build trauma-informed relationships with youth at Trauma-Informed Youth Development and Mentoring on April 24. Gain insights into program roles and mentor responsibilities for enhanced security and emotional well-being. Register today!
Garrett County Health Department’s Overdose Response Program will host two Naloxone pick-up events on May 7th from 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM. Get Naloxone and learn how to administer it at Deer Park Community Center and Garrett County Health Department Outreach Center in Grantsville. Naloxone reverses opioid overdoses from drugs like heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, and hydrocodone.
Faith Church welcomes anyone dealing with hurt, hang-ups, and habits every Friday for Celebrate Recovery at 6:30 PM.
Be part of the April Farmer’s Market this Saturday! Explore farm-fresh produce, handmade crafts, and homemade goodies. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to support local vendors and find something special!
HART for Animals hosts Drag Queen Bingo this Saturday! Enjoy bingo, prizes, refreshments, and support a great cause. Whether you’re a bingo pro or new to the game, it’s sure to be a memorable night!
Prepare for an exciting Team Bingo event at Mountain State Brewing this Sunday, kicking off at 1:00 PM!
Boost your weekend! Check our entertainment schedule and local state park activities for all the details you need.
Apr 19, 2024
Americana Corner is accepting applications for funding through their Preserving America Grant Program to restore historical objects, create educational displays, or make improvements to a historic site to enhance the visitor experience. Grants are limited to 501( c) 3 organizations and requests for funding must be a minimum of $5,000 but may not exceed $10,000.
For more information and to apply click here.
Apr 19, 2024
The Maryland Department of Agriculture needs your help! Please take a few minutes to complete this survey on restaurants in your area that serve local Maryland seafood, including invasive species like Blue Catfish and Snakehead, so that the Maryland Department of Agriculture can promote these businesses on their website, on social media, and as part of their state-wide awareness campaigns.
Click here to complete the survey.
Apr 18, 2024
To galvanize regional efforts to seize upon the unprecedented availability of federal infrastructure funding for projects, the Partnership launched its Employer Signaling: Infrastructure Investments Index pilot project. This month, we opened our new survey for employers (private, non-profit or educational institutions) to share best practices, inform potential solutions, and discuss shared infrastructure priorities
If interested in participating, please complete this brief survey by April 26.
For more information, contact Talya Kravitz at tkravtiz@greaterwashingtonpartnership.com.
Apr 18, 2024
Staff from the Garrett County Health Department’s Overdose Response Program will be hosting two Naloxone pick-up events where individuals can pick up the medication Naloxone and learn how to administer it. On May 7th from 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM, individuals can pick up Naloxone at two locations, the Deer Park Community Center and the Garrett County Health Department Outreach Center in Grantsville. Naloxone is used to reverse overdoses caused by opioids. Opioids could include illegal drugs like heroin and fentanyl or even prescription opioids like oxycodone and hydrocodone.
For any questions, please contact Chelsie Dever at 301-334-7724 or chelsie.dever@maryland.gov.
Apr 18, 2024
The weather today will be mostly sunny, with highs in the upper 60s and a low of 50. West winds of around 10 to 15 mph. The chance of rain is 90%.
As of April 17, Maryland Department of Natural Resources crews stocked more than 7,000 trout.
Trout stocking continues despite high water flows. Anglers can now spread out more with better conditions. Largemouth bass and chain pickerel are active, and crappie fishing is great near structures like sunken wood. For more updates, check out the linked article!
The Rural Maryland Council is accepting letters of intent for FY 2025 grant programs, covering capacity building, entrepreneurship, infrastructure, healthcare, and regional economic planning. Thanks to Governor Wes Moore and Maryland’s General Assembly Presiding Officers for allocating over $9,000,000 in the State Operating Budget for RMPIF and MAERDAF. Deadline for submissions: May 17, 2024, 11:59 PM. Check the linked article for more details.
Check out our latest addition to the marketplace: a brand-new wooden trash enclosure! It can hold two 96-gallon trash containers. Find it in the miscellaneous category.
Experience the wonders of Heirloom Tomatoes today at 11:00 AM at the Grantsville Library! All ages are invited to attend this event.
Get insights into Maryland’s flood preparedness! There will be two sets of webinars today: “How are Maryland Communities Preparing for Flooding?” at 12-noon and “Your Questions Answered (Flooding Q&A)” at 6:00 PM!
Join us for women’s casual group trail/MTB bike rides today at Broadford Lake Park! Meet at 5:15 PM, wheels down at 5:30 PM, return by 7:15 PM. Free ride for all skill levels to connect with fellow riders and enjoy the trails together!
Every Thursday at 6:30 PM, Mountain State Brewing DCL hosts TEAM TRIVIA! Put your knowledge to the test while enjoying cold brews and great company.
Apr 18, 2024
The Garrett County Job Fair will take place Wednesday, May 1st from 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM at the Garrett County Fairground Ag Heritage Hall.
The Job Fair – which has connected employers and job seekers for over 30 years – is open to the public.
“Job seekers will be able to speak with employers planning to hire now and in the near future,” said Kaitlyn Glotfelty, Garrett College’s director of community and professional education. “Experienced and entry-level job seekers, including high school and college students, are encouraged to attend.”
More than 30 businesses and organizations attend the Job Fair each year. The Facebook Garrett County Job Fair page has Job Fair updates and a complete list of all employers registered (https://www.facebook.com/gcjobfair/).
The Garrett County Job Fair is sponsored by a generous donation by Garrett County Business Development. For additional information, please contact Kaitlyn Glotfelty (301.387.3770 or kaitlyn.glotfelty@garrettcollege.edu).
