Deep Creek Lake MD News and Local Resources: Daily Notes

Yesterday was a nice day until the clouds moved in  and then some localized light rain hit late afternoon, with clearing in the evening, which was very nice.  Today will be sunny, with a high near 77 degrees. Calm wind becoming northwest 5 to 7 mph in the morning. We will have a low of about 57 tonight.

Oysters on the full shell anyone?  I know there are no oysters in the lake, but I have two little factoids I thought I would share here: First, an adult oyster can filter up to 50 gallons of water a day!  That’s the good news.  The bad news is that we have lost about 85% of oyster reef habitat over the past 130 years.  Fortunately, projects in the Chesapeake and other areas are creating habitat and seeding oyster beds with some good success. Now you know.

And, speaking of Molluscs, in this instance the bad kind, zebra mussels, we are happy that our launch stewards caught the boat that was about to launch in the lake with zebra mussels attached on July 3rd.  According to the Deep Creek Watershed Foundation, the terribly destructive zebra mussels have sharp shells that are a danger to swimmers who step on them, they clog hydroelectric dams such as the one at Deep Creek Lake, and they have a toxin that has killed thousands of birds. “If the zebra mussels begin to propagate here, our lake, which is the cornerstone of this beautiful area, can be lost as a practical matter,” stated David Myerberg, President of the Foundation.

Be sure to check out all the new updates added to the Ruth Enlow Library website! They’ve revamped the layout for downloadable materials under “Books and More” to make things easier to find, their online databases are now found under the “Learning and Research” tab where everything is organized into different sections, and you can try their new “Find Something New” service to get personalized recommendations from library staff based on things you like (and don’t like) in your reading materials. To use this feature, you can either visit a physical library branch, or use our form at https://www.relib.net/content/find-something-new to fill in your preferences. Sounds like the library team has been busy.  Good stuff.

As of July 1^st, Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) has resumed limited visitation. The new policy follows guidelines from state and federal public health authorities, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to slow the spread of COVID-19. The new guidelines have been put into place in order to protect the health and safety of the hospital’s patients, staff, and the community.

I have heard that the Garrett County Farm Bureau will host an educational tour of Cove Pastures Farm in Accident on July 26th at 6:00 pm.  Chester and Trish Yoder of Cove Patures have done a great job planning and growing their Branch Bender Cidery at 1202 Harmon Road.  You can text or call Arlene Lantz at 240.321.8205 with questions or for more information.

Here’s something different for you: Lebanese Cuisine is coming to the lake! Lebanese Taverna, from the DC area will be delivering their food at the lake on Thursday, July 16th. You pre-order and then pick up in the afternoon. Click here for more information and the pick-up order form!

FInally, we have had some price reductions from sellers on a few items on our Online Marketplace.  Check out the new prices of these items and the rest of the marketplace as well.  Happy shopping.

Yesterday was a very nice day until clouds and some localized weather moved in in the late afternoon hours.  Today we have a slight chance of showers before 9:00 am. Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 75 degrees, with a chance of precipitation at 20%. The evening will be mostly clear, with a low around 56.

My wife and I took advantage of the nice weather yesterday to take a hike to Meadow Mountain Trail Overlook.  Here’s a photo I snapped.  Even with a  bit of summer haze, we could see well over 10 miles.

Meadow Mountain Trail Overlook

The weather today will be warm! Mostly sunny with a high near 83 and a low around 65. Saturday will be partly sunny with a high near 75 and a low around 62. Sunday will be mostly sunny with a high near 79 and a low around 61. A chance of showers and thunderstorms each day after 2pm.

A special thanks to Jean Tumbarello for sharing her campfire visitor last night:

I’ve had a few people contact us looking for fishing recommendations and lake water temperatures:

We do have a temperature gauge at the north lake and here are the experts from the Maryland DNR with the July 8th fishing report: “The fishing scene at Deep Creek Lake and similar western region reservoirs has transitioned into a typical summer pattern of fish behavior. Trout can be found deep along the dam face; walleye and yellow perch are deep along grass edges; and smallmouth and largemouth bass are holding under or near floating docks and moored boats, seeking cool shade.”

Maryland State Police McHenry Barrack responded to Accident, Maryland for five (5) signs with derogatory statements. Anyone with information about the suspect responsible should contact the Maryland State Police McHenry Barrack at 301-387-1101. Callers may remain anonymous.

The first rabies case of 2020 was reported in Garrett County.

Our local Health Department has also shared an alert for opioid overdoses and a federal warning on hand sanitizer.

The Manor Steakhouse has new extended hours on Fridays: 4pm – 9 pm. Reservations recommended.

Garrett College students were recently responsible for preventing two different types of invasive species from entering Deep Creek Lake! Good work to the students, the DCL Property Owners Association, and other watershed groups for their diligence, cooperation, and good work!

As of publication this morning, we have 19 positive COVID-19 cases here in Garrett County.

The weather today will be mostly sunny, with a high near 84 and a low around 64. Isolated showers and thunderstorms after 2pm. East wind 3 to 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Here is the Garrett County Superintendent of Schools updating us on the reopening plan:

We reported earlier in the week a news note from Meet the Press. This figure has been corrected by the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce:

On July 5, Meet the Press reported that Garrett County has experienced a 579% increase in travel spending since 2019 based on data from AirDNA. However, this number, as reported is not accurate and was misrepresented by the graphic used on Meet the Press.

The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce spoke with AirDNA for clarification on the 579% as it would not be feasible to see that type of increase without building hundreds of new vacation rentals. Please note that the increase included in the Meet the Press report is strictly an increase in Airbnb bookings for the July 4th, holiday week. Here is the specific data provided by AirDNA:

From Elyce Behrsin, PR Associate & James Kinnersly, International Sales Manager, AirDNA:

“Just to clarify, the 579% increase in Bookings for Garrett County, MD compares New Bookings made for the days July 4 – 7, 2019 with July 3 – 6, 2020 as of June 25 in the respective year. So the growth is a comparison of year-over-year bookings for the 4th of July National vacation.

The percentage increase compares the below data points:

• As of June 25 2019, there were 128 Airbnb reservations for Garrett County, MD, with a check-in date during July 4 – 7, 2019.

• As of June 25 2020, there were 869 Airbnb reservations for Garrett County, MD, with a check-in date during July 3 – 6, 2020.”

The report on Meet The Press referred to “short-term rentals” but did not specify the data was based only on Airbnb which makes the number misrepresentative of how vacation rentals are faring. The report also used a graphic that showed it was an increase in travel spending which is completely inaccurate. The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce has contacted Meet the Press with the corrections.

Garrett County Sheriff Rob Corley shared a message.

New 2020 Maryland Park Quests have been added:

• Western Maryland Rail Trail Exploration Quest
• Sang Run State Park Year of the Woman Quest
• Deep Creek Lake State Park Quest Options

Neighboring West Virginia’s governor is requiring facemasks in any public area as of July 7; similar to Garrett County’s requirement for stores and restaurants. Here’s a graphic shared by the Preston County Health Department:

Today’s weather includes a chance of showers and thunderstorms, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 2:00 pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 81 degrees and a low around 63. Chance of precipitation is 60%, mainly before 8:00 pm.

Here’s a nice photo of one of our Deep Creek Lake locals near Beckman’s Peninsula, as submitted by reader Lynn Murphy.  This fellow is kinda bald, just like me, but we are BOTH good looking (at least my wife thinks so)!

DCL Bald Eagle

According to the Baltimore Sun, Maryland confirmed 492 new cases and 19 new fatalities from the coronavirus Tuesday, pushing the state’s caseload beyond 70,000 as daily counts of new infections trend downward.

WalletHub just updated a study of all 50 states and the District of Columbia ranking least to most coronavirus restrictions, based on over a dozen parameters.  Click here to see the report and find out where Maryland (and other states) ranked. Hint: If you think more restrictions are good, we did well…

The Mountain Fresh Farmers Market is open today from 10:00 am – 1::00 pm in downtown Oakland.  Here’s the link.

Just a reminder that many local restaurants are now open for indoor/outdoor seating .  Here’s a release from Mountain State Brewing Company. It’s also Pasta Night at Ace’s Run. The Manor Steakhouse is also open for carry-out, inside dining and outside dining this evening through the weekend.  Other restaurants open as well, call to confirm hours.

A little bragging for Deep Creek Times Online Marketplace here: We posted a boat for sale in our Online Marketplace the other day.  It was a 1992 Cobalt 206. Well, we just heard from the seller and it already sold.  I was going to highlight it in today’s Daily Notes but now it is a moot point.  Here’s a link to Online Marketplace and other “stuff” for sale.  Check ’em out…

Finally today, a special guest blog,  courtesy of Sarah Sackett, eight years old, from Carroll County, along with a photo taken by her Mom, Amanda:

“Are you looking for an escape from the stresses of coronavirus and a reward for surviving homeschooling?  If so, I highly recommend visiting Deep Creek Lake. The slower pace of sitting on the dock, dipping my feet in the water while watching all the wildlife was exactly what I needed.  My six-year-old brother Stephen says, ‘spending time relaxing with friends and family is my favorite part.’  What is your favorite thing about Deep Creek Lake?”

“Sitting on the Dock of the Lake”

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