Deep Creek Lake MD News and Local Resources: Daily Notes

The weather was nice yesterday, with the showers holding off until around dinner time.  The weather for today will include scattered showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1:00 pm, with Increasing clouds throughout the day and with a high near 84 degrees and a low of around 66.  Chance of rain during the day is about 50%.

Well, if it seems busier this year on and around the lake, recent “numbers” back that up.  Here’s a link to a report on NBC that shows an over 500% increase in visitors to Garrett County-DCL this year.  Not sure of the methodology, but it makes sense, with COVID-19-related restrictions and concerns.  I like to say we are ‘close-by, but a world away’ to big population centers such as DC, Baltimore and Pittsburgh.

True confession: I will be very glad when COVID-19 news is not front and center and the pandemic is a thing of the past, but for now, we try to provide county- and sometimes state- level updates to our readers.Yesterday, the Garrett County Health Department received notification of another positive COVID-19 case which brings the county’s total positive cases to 15. This positive case is a female Garrett County resident in her 60s who presented with symptoms at a local health care facility. She did not need to be hospitalized and is isolating at home. Feel better…

Here’s a great photo of the full moon and fireeworks taken from the lake the evening of July 4th, as submitted by Louann Eadie.  Thanks for sharing Louann.

Fireworks and Moon on July 4th

Finally, we really appreciate getting all of the great photos our readers submit.  Please make sure you include your name, location (just mention which part of the lake/area) and date, so we can best describe setting and give our photographers the credit they deserve.  Thanks!

The weather over the weekend was wonderfull!  Today we have a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2:00 pm and before 8:00 pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 84 degrees and a low around 64.

The Garrett County Health Department/Joint Information Center announced the county’s 14th confirmed case of COVID-19 on Saturday.  The individual, a male in his 20s is self isolating at present.

Needless to say, the lake area was abuzz with individuals, couples and families enjoying the great weather and the lake and surroundings over the holiday weekend.  Rather than use our community dock and “beach” my wife and I took a jaunt over to the DCL State Park Friday for a dip. People were enjoying themselves and it was nice, even if a large crowd for the holiday weekend. Here’s a photo I took of the beachgoers.  Very nice!

State Park Beach 7-3-20

Note the “No Lifeguard on Duty” sign in the above photo.  I bring that up because it is incumbent on all of us to treat safety as a prime concern as we enjoy outselves.  I saw that a pontoon boat apparently capsized over the weekend.  Accidents happen, and I do not pass judgement on anyone (or boat or marina) involved, as I do not know the details, and regardless, I am sure they did not wish to capsize. As a little reminder here, as I heard some not-so-kind comments posted online, please be kind to one another – locals, second homeowners and tourists alike – as we are all part of, and enjoying, the Deep Creek Lake area together.

I have learned that many of our readers enjoy and savor many different ecosystems both near and far, so here’s a link to some interesting insight and statistics from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) focusing on July as Celebrating Habitat Month: Reconnecting with Habitat.  Some good stuff from NOAA as usual, even if a bit focused on salt water habitats.  Check it out.

OK, speaking of safety and salt water habitats, here’s something we do NOT have to worry about at Deep Creek Lake: “The NOAA Fisheries Alaska Marine Mammal Stranding Hotline received a report that a recreational boat traveling on the west side of Coghlan Island collided with a humpback whale, just outside Auke Bay, north of Juneau, Alaska. The U.S. Coast Guard relayed information that the family in the vessel immediately returned to shore and some members were transported to Bartlett Regional Hospital with serious injuries.” I hope all are OK.

Closer to home, congratulations are in order: Master Deputy State Fire Marshal Jamie Rodeheaver of the Western Regional Office has been named the recipient of the 2019 “James C. Robertson, Deputy State Fire Marshal of the Year” award. “Master Deputy Rodeheaver exemplifies the overall desire and commitment our investigators embrace to ensure the safety of Maryland’s citizens,” stated State Fire Marshal Brian S. Geraci. Nice job and way to go Jamie!

Here’s a nice submission from June Harvey of what looks like dusk at the main part of the lake.  Nice photo June and thank you for sharing. I like the orangish/yellowish layers toward the bottom of the sky and wonder if that can be attributed to the dust that came over the ocean from Africa a few days ago.  It definitely “softens” the scene, regardless.

Summer at the Lake by June Harvey

And, here’s another photo taken on July 4th by Ed O’Connor.  It certainly has the same color hues as the one above. Thanks for sharing Ed and nice job.

Summer at the Lake – Ed O’Connor

Have a great Monday folks…

The weather today will be sunny with a high near 82 and a low around 62. Northwest wind 3 to 8 mph. Tomorrow, for Independence Day, mostly sunny, with a high near 81 and a low around 61. Sunday will have a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2pm but otherwise mostly sunny with a high near 83 and a low of 63.

Remember the no-cost drive-thru COVID-19 testing is today at the fairgrounds until 12-noon.

Governor Larry Hogan reminds us: “As we prepare for the holiday weekend, Marylanders should continue practicing physical distancing, wearing masks when in public places, and avoiding large gatherings. Our long-term recovery can only be effective if we all continue exercising personal responsibility. https://t.co/UGrNXwCEBr”

Have you seen our COVID-19 Information page? If you are coming into town for a visit, we’ll do our best to keep you updated with the current Maryland rules and requirements.

Keep your pets safe this 4th of July – a message from HART for Animals.

Holly Slusser Kern is a DCT fan and has been sharing awesome photos with us lately! She took this one and has earned the site’s cover photo spot for the month of July, too.

This is Bart Simpson flying his powered parachute over Deep Creek Lake.

The Deep Creek Lake Lions Boat Parade is tonight. Also, the Broadford Lake Fireworks display is at dusk — “A Fireworks Spectacular”. Admission is $3 per person, children 8 and under $1.

Tomorrow is the big Deep Creek Lake firewors display “Fire on the Mountain”: For any location you choose to view the fireworks from, please remember to practice social distancing. Prime viewing locations for the annual display include:
◦Scenic overlook along Rt. 219
◦Wisp Resort
◦Lawn at Garrett College
◦Boat on Deep Creek Lake, particularly McHenry Cove
◦Local Businesses in McHenry

Have a safe and Happy 4th of July!

The weather today will be sunny with a high near 79 and a low around 60. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph in the afternoon.

“We have asymptomatic community spread [of COVID-19] in Garrett County” —  Five staff members at Dennett Road Nursing Home have tested positive.

There is an additional COVID-19 drive-thru test site planned for tomorrow at the Garrett County Fairgrounds.

Speaking of the Garrett County Agricultural Fair that was planned for August 1 – 8, 2020 …. it has been officially cancelled.

But, the Garrett County Farm Bureau with support from the members of the Garrett County Livestock Association and Garrett County Fair Board will be hosting a 2020 Livestock Expo and Sale. This will be held Tuesday, August 4th – Saturday, August 8th for Garrett County 4-H and FFA members only. Entries are now open and will be due by Wednesday, July 15th, 2020. Registration form is available here: https://forms.gle/SxEiDBzNq1MoSPWX8

OK! So, this is an EASY one because I want as many people as possible to have a chance at this month’s gift card!  The “Where Am I?” contest is live!

Governor Hogan is encouraging Maryland business owners to take the “Maryland Strong Back to Business Pledge”, and display a signed pledge in their place of business.

We have posted the July Cover Story for your reading pleasure!

Happy July folks.  The weather for today will be sunny, with a calm wind and a high near 78 degrees and a low of about 58 in the evening.  Looks like a winner to start off the month.

I’ll start us off today with a nice photo of a mama deer and her two little ones.  The deer are great, but the diffused lighting through the trees really makes the photo special.  Thanks go to Dee Dave for submitting to us to share.  Nice job Dee!

Deer in the Light

We recieved the quarterly newsletter (Summer Edition) from the Maryland Historical Trust yesterday.  Some really good information in there, including announcements of grant opportunities, celebrations of our fellow citizens and a blog piece on the Sang Run Elections House restoration efforts in Garrett County.  Check it all out here.

Garrett County’s total cumulative cases of COVID-19 now stands at 11 individuals. The testing in Accident last week found one positive (not all test results in yet) and those that came in close-contact with the individual are being contacted.  She is self-isolating at present.

Buying a house soon?  Selling a house soon?  With the real estate sales season at the lake heating-up, I thought I would share this link to a message from the Maryland State Insurance Commissioner relative to title insurance. Basically, Maryland home buyers have the right to choose their settlement agent and title insurer. Any attempt to require that title insurance be purchased from a particular title company as a precondition for obtaining closing cost assistance is prohibited in Maryland.

The Manor Steakhouse in Oakland just sent us a message that they now have indoor dining to supplement their carry-out and outside dining.  They also have expanded their hours and also their menu.  Reservations are recommended.  Call them at 240-488-1104 for more details or to book a table.

The Maryland State Fire Marshall has these guidelines for the safe use of fireworks during these current dry conditions:

•  Consider attending one of the public fireworks displays scheduled throughout Maryland this year. Leave fireworks to the professionals. Check the Maryland State Fire Marshal website at: https://mdsp.maryland.gov/firemarshal/ for listed public fireworks displays throughout the state

For those individuals who insist on the use of consumer fireworks (the fire marshall’s words, not mine):

• Purchase the fireworks in the location where you intend to discharge them. Check with the local municipality to determine what fireworks are considered legal for use in that area.
• Read and follow label warnings and instructions.
• Prior to igniting fireworks, wet down the entire area to help prevent errant sparks from igniting vegetation.
• Do not allow small children to use fireworks. Sparklers burn at approximately 1,200°F.
• Do not consume alcoholic beverages while using fireworks.
• Have a bucket of water or hose available.
• Ensure to completely douse remains of fireworks before proper disposal.

Have a safe, fun, happy Wednesday folks…

Yesterday was very nice and today should be even nicer.  There will be patchy fog before 9:00 am. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 78 degrees with a calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. Tonight will be partly cloudy with a low around 59.

Early on Friday morning, a group of workers clad in personal protective equipment took over the lots at the Northern Middle School in Accident, and were ready for the cars of non-symptomatic people desiring COVID-19 testing. In the first hour of operation, nearly 50 tests were administered, and by the time the last car drove away, the total had reached 175. Another testing day is scheduled for Friday, July 17th, in the parking lot between the Garrett County Health Department and the Mountain Laurel Medical Center, from 7:00 am until 1:00 pm. For more information, call 301.334.7770 or 301.895.3111.

COVID-19 Testing in Accident

The next public meeting of the Garrett County Board of Commissioners is scheduled for July 6th at 4:00 pm.  The meeting will be Live Streamed at  tps://www.facebook.com/garrettcountygovernment/.  The agenda includes an update from Garrett County Health Officer Robert Stephens.  To comment on agenda items – please send to gccomments@garrettcounty.org.

This is interesting and timely: 2019 Guggenheim Fellow and New York Times bestselling author Ibram X. Kendi will discuss his renowned book “How to Be an Antiracist” on Monday, July 20th at 7:00 p.m. with Dr. Charlene M. Dukes, president of Prince George’s Community College on a webinar co-hosted by Ruth Enlow Library. You can register for this free virtual conversation with Dr. Kendi by visiting www.KendiPGC.eventbrite.com.

In order to determine where Americans’ health is recovering or worsening the most from the COVID-19 pandemic, and thus where reopening efforts can accelerate, WalletHub conducted a study that compared the 50 states and the District of Columbia across 13 key metrics. Those include the COVID-19 death rate, hospitalization rate and the rate at which people test positive. This report focuses on the latest developments in each state rather than which states have been hit the hardest throughout the pandemic. Below, are some key statistics about Maryland:

Maryland’s Health During Coronavirus (1=Most Improved; 25=Avg.):

• 44^th – Death Rate This Week
• 32^nd – Positive COVID-19 Testing Rate This Week
• 17^th – COVID-19 Current Estimated Transmission Number*
• 35^th – COVID-19 Hospitalization Rate This Week

*Estimates the average number of people to whom an infected person will transmit COVID-19.

Well, times sure have changed.  I thought I would include this throwback photo of the Glendale Bridge courtesy of Taylor-Made archives. Note the limited vegetation.  Gets you thinking…

Glendale Bridge Back in the Day

Nice weekend in between some showers/thunderstorms, but overall nice and lots of boats on the lake. Today we start with some patchy fog before 9:00 am, then we will have sunny skies and a high around 77 degrees, with a low around 58.

Went back to the CARC for the first time in three months Sunday.  I had a great swim and it looks like they took some good steps in response to COVID-19.  So glad they are back open!

Here’s a link to a message and update from  Karen B. Salmon of the State Board of Education. It covers COVID-19-related efforts and has embedded links to other information as well.  Check it out if you have kids or grandkids in K-12.

Garrett Regional Medical Center recently welcomed H. John Park, MD to the medical staff. Dr. Park is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who specializes in joint replacement, arthroscopy, cartilage restorations, sports injuries, and trauma. He has practiced for over 35 years in medical centers across the country, most recently at Vaughan Regional Medical Center in Selma, Alabama. Welcome Dr. Park.

Don’t forget that Power of Possibilities (POP) is on for Tuesday morning.  Sarah and I were founders of POP and really believe in it.  Though we have not been involved with it relative to organization and content for a few years, we try to spread the word because entrepreneurship is so important to our local economy.  To find out more or to sign up for this year’s free, virtual event, please contact Cristey Kordyban at cristey.kordyban@garrettcollege.edu .

Also scheduled for Tuesday is the second of four Deep Creek Lake hydrilla herbicide treatments. Treatment is always subject to change due to weather conditions. During the treatment process, boaters are asked to stay clear of the treatment boat while it is underway so that the proper dosage of herbicide can be administered. Once applied, there are no recreational restrictions associated with the herbicide.

We’ve had a few inquiries about the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club annual boat parade.  It is a “go” and is planned for this Friday at 7:00 pm.  Boats will leave from McHenry cove and will wind-up at Dutch’s.  For more information you can go here.  FYI, I will be there but you won’t be seeing me, as I am trying out my new submarine.  Go LIONS!

Here’s my three wishes for the rest of the season (and year) in the Deep Creek Lake area:

1. That locals treat tourists with the respect they deserve and that service providers go out of their way to make tourists feel welcome and “at home” during their stay
2. That tourists treat locals, especially our front-line retail and food service workers with respect and appreciation
3. That everyone, including business owners, managers, workers, locals and visiitors take personal responsibility for stopping the spread of coronavirus and keeping each other safe and healthy

As news over the weekend turned to renewed intererest in closures and new precautions under consideration or enacted due to the recent “surge” in COVID-19 cases in some areas of the US (I am not talking about Garrett County) I thought I would include this interesting graph that provides a global perspective.  I’ll let our readers draw your own conclusions from the data as presented.  I thought it was interesting.

Rolling Average of New Coronavirus Cases Globally

Have a great Monday folks!

The weather today will be mostly sunny with a high near 75 and a low around 64. West wind 8 to 13 mph. A slight chance of showers, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after midnight. Saturday will be partly sunny with a chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 3pm. High near 75 and low around 63. Sunday will be mostly cloudy with showers likely. High near 74 and low around 62.

No cost COVID-19 testing sites have been announced by the Garrett County Health Department. Today the testing will be held at Northern Middle School (371 Pride Parkway in Accident) from 7 am-1 pm. This is asymptomatic testing ONLY.

The link to the latest episode of Wildfulness podcast is live. Thank you, Lisa!

Garrett County has a current census response rate of 48.1% … it’s not too late to respond!

“Simple tactics like slow reeling a nightcrawler, jigging, or a minnow under a slip bobber should do the trick,” according to fisheries biologist Kenny Wampler. “Targeting weedline edges and submerged trees is the key to success for walleyes, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch… ”

Tonight or tomorrow The Manor Steakhouse is offering a special on crab stuffed snapper with an imperial sauce. Wow! Sounds delish! They are now open for outside dining or carryout with an expanded menu. Reservations are recommended! 240-488-1104

The Farmer’s Market is tomorrow from 10am – 1pm in the Mountain Fresh Pavilion in Oakland.

Yay for live music! Black Bear Tavern is having Paul Burger from 7-10pm tomorrow (no cover).

Community Action has announced nonperishable food will be collected at the following additional locations:

• Bloomington Volunteer Fire Department:
June 26th 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM

• Southern Rescue Squad:
June 27th 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Thanks to Dee Dave for this deer “statue” photo!

The weather today will be mostly sunny with isolated showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. High near 73 and a low around 57.

There’s a sailboat that has been newly listed in our Online Marketplace! $850 takes this Sunfish home! ????

So, what do you call them? Here is a regional representation by Josh Katz.

The 79th Annual Preston County Buckwheat Festival (in neighboring Preston County) has been canceled.

The Garrett Institute of Lifelong Learning (at Garrett College) has made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Annual Membership Picnic and all fall courses.

Garrett County Community Action in partnership with the Garrett County Volunteer Fire Departments, Crossroads Church, and Garrett County Government hosted a huge COVID-19 relief food drive and collected enough food to fill 118 emergency food boxes. This will feed 216 people in need! THANK YOU!

This month during the Health Planning Council we will be hearing from agencies and volunteers that make a direct contribution to addressing food insecurities in Garrett County. Join Thursday’s webinar today from 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM via Google meet meet.google.com/gyx-yavi-duq or by phone at 1-321-442-0239 (PIN: 961134551).

I saw this vintage Deep Creek Lake lapel pin on eBay. I have no connection to the seller but I thought it was neat.

Also, here’s a “Fall Flashback” photo posted to Reddit. This is taken from the overlook over the town of Oakland.

Western Maryland Small Town Charm - Fall Flashback Found While Switching Phones - Oakland, Maryland - Near Deep Creek Lake from maryland

Yesterday was nice until mid-afternoon, then the promised showers appeared in some parts of the county.  Today will be mostly sunny, with a high near 71 degrees and a low of 56.

Don’t forget that the Mountain Fresh Farmers Market will be held today from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm at the pavilion in downtown Oakland.  Lots of fresh veggies and other good stuff.  And, please remember, they have some COVID-19-related rules in effect (see the link).

I am a judge this year for the business plan competition for Garrett College’s Power of Possibilities.  They had a couple of good new-business ideas proposed by a couple of young, local entrepreneurs mentored by Jodi McClintock.  This year’s condensed e-conference, where the winner of the competition will be announced, will be held virtually at 9:30 am on June 30th. Here’s the link for more information and to sign-up.

HART for Animals has moved their thrift shop to Sand Flat Road Plaza, with a planned-for re-opening on Thursday, July 2nd. HART’s Pick of the Litter Thrift Shop is behind Shooters Bar & Grill and carries items such as housewares, fashions, home accesories, pet accessiries, baby and kids wear, toys, gifts, furniture and more. They are worth a visit and remember the store helps with fundraising for HART’s noble goals.  Here’s a photo – nice job Paula and team:

HART’s new Pick of the Litter Thrift Store

The annual Fireworks Celebration at the Broadford Lake Recreation Area will be held on Friday, July 3rd, with a rain date of July 5th.  There is a small admission charge of $3 per person, with $1 for children under eight yers of age.

Fireworks will also light up the sky on July 4th as the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce presents the annual “Fire on the Mountain” Fireworks Display. The display is set to begin at dark with fireworks launched from the top of the Tubing Park at Wisp Resort. Prime viewing locations include the Scenic Overlook on Route 219, Wisp Resort, local businesses in McHenry, and from a boat on the lake, particularly around McHenry Cove.

Now that we are all emerging from various degrees of being cooped-up and with vacation travel taking off, I thought I would post these sobering statistics on speeding in Maryland.

A recent analysis by CoPilot Using data from the U.S. Census Bureau, Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and NHTSA, found that in Maryland, 26.6% of total traffic deaths involve speeding. Here is a summary of the data for Maryland and please drive safe:

• Traffic fatalities that involve speeding: 26.6% of total
• Speeding-related traffic fatality rate per 100k: 2.24
• Total traffic fatalities that involve speeding (past 5 years): 676
• Total traffic fatalities (past 5 years): 2,543
• Maximum posted speed limit: 70 mph
• Worst county for speeding: Baltimore City

If you see Barry or Mary Ann Krewson around the lake, congratulate them on being chosen as co-directors of the golf course at Alpine Lake Resort for this summer.  Both are avid golfers and great people, and Barry is a member of Deep Creek Lake Lions along with yours truly!  I’m sure they will do a great job and have lots of fun while doing it. Fore!

Yesterday was nice, but with some thunderstorms in the area.  Today starts with a chance for showers, then showers and thunderstorms likely after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 79 degrees and a low of about 59. There will be a south wind 7 to 10 mph and a chance of precipitation of 60%.

I know things are a bit “off” due the coronavirus and self isolation/working from home, but it seems like the end of June just crept up on me here. I am going to take a breath and smell the wild roses I think!

Somewhere over the fogbow… Here’s a very cool photo taken by Charles Walch yesterday morning. It is a photo of a fogbow, sometimes referred to as a white rainbow.  As you would expect from the name, it occurs in foggy weather and is a much rarer phenomena than a rainbow.  Thanks Charles and here’s the photo he took:

Fogbow

In addition to the COVID-19 testing scheduled for this Friday, the Garrett County Health Department  has announced a second testing opportunity (also for thoe without symptoms) to be held at the Mountain Laurel Medical Center at 1027 Memorial Drive in Oakland on Friday, July 17th from 7:00 am to 1:00 pm. More information will be forthcoming closer to that date.

Yesterday the state of Maryland reported 297 new COVID-19 cases with eight new deaths.  I believe that brings totals for the pandemic in Maryland to 64,656 and 3,060 for cases and deaths, respectively.  While some parts of the country are seeing large increases, we in Maryland are holding fairly steady, with Garrett County one of the lowest counties in the state.

The 2020 Autumn Glory Royalty Court has been selected for the 53rd Annual Autumn Glory Festival. This year’s King is Jarrett Miller and the Queen is Olivia Warne. Patriot Automotive is the title sponsor of the 53rd Annual Autumn Glory Festival. Both Jarrett and Olivia are very involved and active students and are well deserving of this honor.  Congratulations.

This is interesting and a little different as we get ready for July 4th.  To determine where Americans have the most red, white and blue pride, WalletHub recently compared the 50 states across 13 key indicators of patriotism. Their data set ranged from the state’s military enlistees and veterans to the share of adults who voted in the 2016 presidential election to AmeriCorps volunteers per capita. Here’s some key facts from the full report, where you can also see an interactive map and find where Maryland and other states ranked overall (we did well):

Patriotism in Maryland (1=Most Patriotic; 25=Avg)

• 26^th – Average Number of Military Enlistees per 1,000 Civilian Adults
• 15^th – Active-Duty Military Personnel per 100,000 Civilian Adults
• 5^th – Peace Corps Volunteers per Capita
• 14^th – % of Adults Who Voted in 2016 Presidential Election
• 13^th – Volunteer Rate
• 1^st – Civics Education Requirement
• 4^th – Volunteer Hours per Resident
• 24^th – AmeriCorps Volunteers per Capita

Some spotty storms over the weekend, but pretty much a nice weekend. Today we have a chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 4:00 pm and a slight chance after 8:00 pm.  The high will be near 78 degrees and the low will be around 63.  Looks like the late afternoon is the best time to plan an outdoor activity.

I hope all the dad’s out there had a great day yesterday.  I sure did. My own dad passed away in 1983, and was a great guy and wonderful father that I miss to this day. So, here’s a shout-out to all the great dad’s that are important in so many ways to their families and our community.

And, speaking of dads, I erroneously put Bob Boal’s name as author for this month’s Cover Story instead of his son Brian. They are both great fellows and great accountants, but my fault for the screw-up name-wise.  You can check out the article, with some important, timely tax advice, here.

Moving on to the moms in our community, here’s a great photo (and video) of one with her four cubs (one is hidden in the photo) taken by Rich Heironimus near Heron Cove off of Paradise Point Road.  Thanks for submitting the photo and also a video Rich!

Mama Bear and Her Cubs

Here’s a link to a COVID-19- related communication from the Maryland State Department of Education.  It covers the list of 13 things local school systems must do in order to be ready to open in the fall.  And, if you scroll down, you will see a piece on two student investment teams at Southern High School that placed first and third in the state of Maryland Stock Market Game Competition.  Impressive and congratulations to those students and their advisors!

The Garrett County Health Department is now offering no-cost “Drive-Through” COVID-19 (swab) testing for non-symptomatic persons (not exhibiting synptoms of COVID-19).  The first community clinic will be held at Northern Middle School in Accident on June 26th, rain or shine, from 7:00 am – 1:00 pm. Here’s more information for you.

A hearty and well-deserved congratulations to Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) as it celebrates its 70th anniversary! The history of the hospital dates back to 1946, when George W. Loar, a resident of Oakland, left the town $135,000 in his will to be used for the construction of a county hospital. On May 15, 1950, Garrett County Memorial Hospital officially opened its doors. Today, GRMC has grown into an award winning, progressive, Joint Commission accredited acute care facility with 55 inpatient beds and a plethora of outpatient services.  CONGRATULATIONS and thanks for all you do for the community!!! Check out this early photo of the hospital:

GRMC 1950

In case you were wondering, today is national chocolate eclair day, national onion rings day, and as my kitties just reminded me, national bring your cat to work day! Meow.

Have a great Monday folks…

The weather today will be partly sunny, with a high near 69 and a low around 58. Scattered showers likely. Saturday will be partly sunny, with a high near 73 and a low around 58. Chance of showers before noon, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms between noon and 3pm, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 3pm. Sunday will be mostly sunny with a high near 77 and a low around 63. A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms through the afternoon and the night.

Happy Juneteenth Day. The holiday gets its name from June 19, 1865. That’s the day the Union army arrived in Galveston, Texas, to announce that all African-American slaves in the state were free in accordance with President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation. The state was the last in the Confederacy to receive word that the Civil War was over and that slavery had been abolished and the last where the federal Army established its authority.

Due to COVID-19 related school closures, children who are eligible for free or reduced-price meals will get up to $370.50 in extra food benefits from the state. These benefits, called Pandemic-EBT, or P-EBT, are intended to help families in Maryland purchase food while schools are closed.

Neighboring WV establishment, Screech Owl Brewing has closed its doors temporarily due to an employee coming into contact with COVID-19. The employee who was exposed to the virus returned to work from vacation Monday. As soon as the business was made aware of the exposure, they had all employees tested as an extra precaution. Owners also explained that no customers had been exposed to the employee.

Despite many closures and cancellations, we’re all adjusting and there are a few events beginning to happen again:

The Graduation Ceremonies of both Northern Garrett and Southern Garrett High Schools will air on June 20th. Northern Garrett High School will air at 10:00am and Southern Garrett High School will air at 2:00pm. Please set a reminder and encourage family and friends to help us celebrate the incredible accomplishments of our graduating seniors!

Get on the water for cheap! The Lion’s Club Boat Auction will be held Saturday, June 20, 9am at 1249 Bumble Bee Rd Accident MD. Over 25 boats will be sold and the proceeds benefit blind skiers and campers.

Shabby Petina is holding a Summer Solstice Market on Saturday from 9am-4pm; Shabby Patina is a charming mix of primitive, shabby chic, upcycled and repurposed items, old and new accents, and home decor!

Also, this weekend is the 25th Annual Walk for Hospice.  With a $50.00 and up donation, you will receive an honorary 25th Anniversary Walk for Hospice shirt! Contact Hospice of Garrett County Inc with ANY questions at djbrenneman1@gmail.com or 301.616.3593.

Mark your calendars: Ace’s Run Pasta Night is BACK!

What’s New Around Town?

Community Planning Groups across Garrett County are using alternative approaches during June to motivate their communities to increase physical activity. The theme for the overall project is “Every body needs physical exercise.”

The weather will be mostly cloudy, showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 2pm. A high will be near 67 and the low will be around 58.

Congratulations to the recipients of the county’s Work Ethic Diploma!

We had reported that the Oakland Pocket Park Movies were canceled for the 2020 season but the town of Oakland is now looking into alternative strategies to safely continue this event. We will keep you posted!

The drive through COVID-19 testing station will be closing at Garrett Regional Medical Center as of June 19th. The testing will be resuming at the hospital Monday through Friday 7am to 7pm and Saturdays 7am to noon. Patients with physicians’ orders to receive a COVID-19 test are asked to check-in through the emergency department for screening and to keep a mask on at all times while inside the hospital.

A COVID-19 outbreak has been reported in neighboring Preston County, WV has been traced to travelers to and from Myrtle Beach. Eight people have tested positive, and all eight recently returned from a trip to Myrtle Beach. Health officials urge residents who have traveled back from Myrtle Beach, or any other crowded vacation destination in the last two weeks to self-quarantine for 14 days.

The Garrett County Economic Development Department has sent out its newsletter summarizing business COVID-19 resources. Mike mentioned the two local grants yesterday but there’s additional information from a few state and federal agencies, too.

The Ruth Enlow Library will be reopening on a limited basis on Monday, June 22. Here are the specific guidelines.

Take a look at our Featured Photo of the Month! Thank you, Betsy!