Deep Creek Lake MD News and Local Resources: Daily Notes

Yesterday started out overcast and a little wet but developed into a nice day. Today’s weather will be sunny, with a high near 56 and a low around 38. Some gusting winds up to 21mph.

I returned home to Garrett County in the wee hours yesterday morning from a trip to California. When I left San Diego it was 84 degrees.  When I landed in Baltimore it was 69 degrees. When I got to the lake it was 50 degrees!  May be cooler now, but it will all be worth it when the great crisp, fresh mountain summer air and natural, green beauty come into full “bloom.”

Magician Tim Canter will perform two free Comedy magic Shows this morning at the Friendsville Library.  There will be two showings, 9:20 am 10:30 am in the town hall next to library. It’s free and intended for all ages!

Here’s a link to a really well-done piece on the Great Allegany Passage Bike Trail on Wildfulness.  It is their latest piece and will prove interesting to cyclists- and non-cyclists alike.

This year’s Power of Possibilities Entrepreneurship and Community Leadership Summit is being held on April 18th from 8:30 am – 2:30 pm at the Garrett College special events center.  In addition to hearing from this year’s business plan competition participants, you can take-in the keynote by entrepreneur and author Jeff Tobe, whom Insider Magazine has dubbed “the guru of creativity.” The session costs $54, and only $10 for students.  Call 301.387.3069 for more information or to register.

The Chamber’s April Business After Hours is this Thursday, from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm.  It will be hosted by the Garrett County Board of Realtors and will be held at Uno’s Pizzeria and Grill. Here’s the link for more information and registration.

Experienced choir producer and conductor Charles B. Logan is forming the new One Mountain Community Gospel Choir at the lake.  All (over 18) are welcome to join in singing the “good news” from its new home at Wisp Resort.  There’s an initial information session planned for Thursday, April 18th from 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm.  You can text Charles at 301.501.3511 for more information.  Good luck to all on this new effort!

Did you know that 54 million Americans say they don’t understand their car insurance?  WalletHub just did a study of auto insurance costs, providers and consumers’ attitudes and I thought I would share it here.  You can also find out where Maryland ranks cost-wise and some of the least expensive providers in the state. Interesting and actionable information.

Docks are going in and it’s looking a lot more like summer around here:

The weather today will be a slight chance of showers before 3pm. Cloudy through mid morning, then gradual clearing, with a high near 62 and a low around 37. West wind 10 to 14 mph, with gusts as high as 26 mph.

One of our readers is in search of (ISO) an aluminum dock – do you have one for sale?

Auditions for next Our Town Theatre production, Gracefully Ending, will be held TONIGHT from 7-9 pm at the theatre. There are parts for 2 females, 30s and older, and 3 men, late 20s and older. Audition materials will be provided at the audition.

Also, Our Town Theatre will be hosting an Old Time Music Jam on April 11 at 7 pm. Anyone interested in attending is welcome! Beginners to advanced musicians are encouraged to bring instruments and participate.

On behalf of the Play Hard Live Clean Campaign and the Garrett County Drug-Free Communities Coalition, there is a new drinking prevention survey posted for Southern and Northern High School students. Please share with your teens! Students can win a variety of prizes (including a $500 scholarship each year).

Tomorrow is a Wine Tasting and Music Fundraiser benefitting the Flowery Vale Fitness Center in Accident. Event is from 5pm-7pm and is $25 per couple.

The Northern Garrett High School literary magazine has been published. I have to say I am impressed! If you are interested, we can put you in touch with the high school to get your own copy of this student-written and student-edited publication.

New Germany State Park will host a three-day Maryland Hunter Education Course on April 16, 18 and 20. The class is for first-time hunters obtaining their hunter education certification. Students must attend all three sessions to be eligible. Any student under the age of 13 must have an adult (21 years of age or older) accompany them during all three sessions. For more information, visit the MD DNR page.

A reminder to make your nomination(s) for the 2019 Heise Entrepreneurial Spirit Award in this week. The deadline is close of business on Friday, April 12. The Heise Entrepreneurial Spirit Award was named in honor of Helmuth and Evelyn Heise, founders of Will O’ the Wisp and Wisp Resort and the award honors a business owner that has shown similar entrepreneurial qualities.

The weather today will be mostly cloudy, with a high near 64 and a low around 52. West wind around 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

There will be three showings of the Comedy Magic Show at the Ruth Enlow Libraries today. One showing at 10:30am at the Kitzmiller branch and two tonight (at 4:00pm and again at 6:00pm) at the Oakland branch to celebrate National Library Week. Magician Tim Canter will perform free shows that are fun for all ages. Registration is not required.

The show will happen again tomorrow (4/9) at 4:00pm at the Accident branch, 9:20am and 10:30am on Wed 4/10 at the Friendsville branch and at 4:00pm at the Grantsville branch.

Governor Hogan reported a look at Opportunity Zones throughout the state to revitalize communities who need support the most. Read more.

The Maryland Department of Health has announced a case of the measles has been confirmed with possible exposures in Baltimore area. Anyone who visited 4000 Old Court Road in Pikesville, MD on Tuesday, April 2 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. may have been exposed to measles.

Save the Date for two HART for Animals events: A Live Public Auction in Mary and the Fast and the Furriest Run / Walk in June.

Garrett County Transit Community Survey is open for public opinion until April 19, 2019 for the development of the Garrett County Transit Development Plan. This planning process provides the opportunity to review and assess the current Garrett Transit Service (GTS) system, to identify unmet transportation needs in Garrett County, and to develop an appropriate course of action for the near future. The completed TDP will then serve as a guide, providing a roadmap for implementing service changes, improvements, and/or potential expansion over the next five years.

What a pretty catch by JD Eddy from over the weekend:

The weather for this weekend is shaping up to be warmer (with just a chance of some scattered showers). Today will be rain; a high near 49 and a low around 43. Saturday will be a slight chance of rain before 10am but partly sunny, with a high near 61 and a low around 46. Sunday will be partly sunny, with a high near 66 and a low around 55. A chance of showers.

Tonight is Eli Helbig at Sipside Lounge — check it out! Also, Sipside is hosting a National Beer Day Celebration this Sunday from 2-8pm with Jason Shaw performing 4-7pm.

The last AYCE Buckwheat Cake Dinner of the season will be held at the Swanton Community Center tomorrow.

Want to be a Maryland Natural Resources Police Officer? Applications are online now and will be accepted through April 15.

Thousand Acres Golf Club has announced that they will be tentatively opening on April 18th for the 2019 season! Call the pro shop at 301-387-0387 to schedule tee times.

So, Peeps candy gets a bad rap this time of year but … what do you think? Check out the “Worst Easter Candy” list from Candy Store. Peeps are definitely on the list but they are actually NOT number one as I expected. (Can you tell I’m not a fan!)

HART for Animals shared their “numbers” through March 2019 — way to go, friends! Thank you for all you do to help our furry friends!
Spays & Neuters:  165
Rescue & Transports:   94
Adoptions:  70

In case you didn’t know, HART also shared that the revenues generated by the services at the HART Animal Center support the basic operating costs of the facility, including staff and maintenance, so that they may serve the animals and our community. HART supports those programs through donations and fundraising and HART uses 92% of all revenue to pay for rescue, transport, spay/neuter, sheltering, and adoption.

The DCL Discovery Center has a few events scheduled for this weekend:

Saturday, April 6
11:00 a.m Brant Mine Hike – Take a guided hike with the naturalist to the historic Brant Mine to visit remnants of a coal mine that was operated in the 1920’s.  Plus, you never know what wildlife we will see on the way. Approx. 2 hours. Dress for the weather!
1:00 p.m.  Snakes Alive.  Join the naturalist for hands on experience with our snakes.  Learn why snakes are so important and maybe even overcome a fear or two.

Sunday, April 7
11:00 a.m. Herp Search Join the Naturalist Assistants to learn  how to safely identify native reptiles and amphibians on a walk through park. Approx 1 hour.
2:00 p.m. Aviary Feeding   Stop by during lunchtime for our birds to watch them eat!  Get a chance to learn the stories of how they came to be in our care, plus facts about their species.

Garrett Regional Medical Center is hosting a Prevent Type 2 Diabetes Info Session on April 16 from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. in the hospital’s boardroom. The info session provides an overview of the Prevent Type 2 Diabetes class aimed for participants who have developed or are at a high-risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Classes will begin on April 30 with preregistration required.

Have a great weekend!

The weather today will be mostly cloudy, with a high near 55 and a low around 40. A slight chance of light rain before 11pm, then rain likely, mainly after 3am.

Happy Home Opening Day for all of the Balitmore Orioles fans!

The Department of Public Works – Roads Division has advised that Rock Lodge Road will be temporarily closed Thursday, April 4, 2019, for culvert replacement.  The temporary closure is below Beachy Road and will take place during the hours of 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Alternate routes for traffic during the temporary closure will be Beachy Road, Foxtown Road and Orendorf Road. Any questions can be directed to the Accident County Roads Garage at 301-746-8156.

The AAUW State Convention is planned for this weekend as Wisp Resort. Hosted by AAUW-Garrett Branch, the day will feature an exciting line up of local female speakers as well as state representatives.

There will be pre-employment testing for Deputy Sheriffs & Corrections Officers on Saturday, April 6, 2019 at 8:00am. Candidates who meet the minimum requirements and are interested in participating in the pre-employment test must complete and submit a Garrett County employment application and bring a $25 fee.

Did you know? Ask Alexa: “Alexa, open Maryland Fishing Report.” and you can hear information by Maryland region or the entire report. This innovation has also been nominated for a prestigious national award – if you enjoy the report, please vote in the State Scoop Innovation contest.

Congratulations are due to Tina and William Buckel — named Maryland Tree Farmers of The Year 2019 and were recognized on the Senate floor by Senator George Edwards.

There will be an open session for the Board of County Commissioners on Monday, April 8, 2019 beginning at 4:00 p.m. located in the Garrett County Courthouse Public Meeting Room for the exclusive purpose of hosting the Garrett County Public Schools Superintendent’s Proposed Fiscal Year 2020 Budget Presentation

Up to 500 jobs are coming to nearby Rocket Center, WV via Northrop Grumman Corporation expansion. I know several friends that work down that way.

Hi Dear Readers! Sarah here writing these notes and taking over for Mike this week — I hope you enjoy!

The weather for today will be sunny, with a high near 51and a low around 37.

DON’T WAIT! Park Quest registration opens TODAY at 10AM this morning — Herrington Manor and Sang Run State Parks in Garrett County are part of the quest! Park Quest offers 1,000 teams who qualify an opportunity to explore the many hidden treasures found in Maryland’s State Parks from May 1, 2019 through October 31, 2019. Teams that have completed a minimum number of Quests by October 31st, will be entered into a drawing for special Park Quest prizes! Register here.

Garrett 8 Cinemas was able to get a copy of the movie Unplanned during its limited release. It will open this Friday. Unplanned tells the true story of Abby Johnson, one of the youngest Planned Parenthood directors in the US. (note the times for Unplanned are listed but we will be updating the other movie times today)

Check out the What’s New Around Town: Lovelight Pediatrics has just opened in Mt. Lake Park.

Remember tomorrow is the regularly scheduled Women’s Networking Luncheon: Thursday, April 4 from 12:00pm-1:00pm at Ace’s Run Restaurant & Pub. Trish Yoder and Regina Holliday will be making presentations. $15.

Garrett County Public Schools will now allow students to access their cell phones during non-instructional time during the school day (before and after school, between classes, and at lunch) at Northern and Southern Garrett High Schools. This is provided that their use does not cause a disruption or does not make them late for class.

Some friends and I went to MoonShadow Trivia last night (and WON!) but also tried their limited edition Duclaw Unicorn Farts beer. Can you see the glitter in it? How fun! It was a surprisingly good sour beer!

Yesterday was sunny but cool. Today’s weather will be mostly cloudy, with a high near 46 and a low around 35.

Congratulations to Erica Carlson, winner of last month’s “Where am I” contest.  Erica won a $25 gift card to Ace’s Run restaurant. This month’s “Where am I?” photo provides a unique perspective on the mountain.

Sarah changed the website menus “a bit” in an effort to enhance navigation, while still not making too drastic of a change. We want to make sure all our readers can easily locate and see all of our information. So many readers start with the Daily Notes each morning and then check the weather and news sections.  Other readers check our business listings, specials and events to help choose where to enjoy a meal or a drink.

Hold your mouse over “HOME” on any page to see the additional menus of information.

The Chamber just reported that the unemployment rate for Garrett County in January was 5.6%, while that of Maryland was 4.3% and the overall US unemployment rate was 4.0%. Of Maryland counties, Howard had the lowest at just 3.2% and Worcester had the highest at 11.5%.  Quite a mix.

Speaking of the Chamber, they are holding this month’s HR Roundtable on Wednesday morning from 8:00 am – 9:30 am in the GIEC building at the college. The featured speaker is Valerie Dzbynski with Prescott HR Consulting, who will discuss strategies to deal with rising personnel costs. Your company must be a Garrett County Chamber member in good standing to attend. Questions should be directed to Regina Sweitzer at 301.387.8739.

The Garrett County Health Department joins agencies across the nation in celebrating April 1st-7th as National Public Health Week. Public health is the very important foundation of a healthy community. This year the Health Department’s promotion of Public Health Week concentrates on five topic areas including healthy communities, behavioral health, communicable disease, environmental health, and maternal & child health.

Bear Creek Traders let us know they are currently offering 25% off Easter decor through the month of April! Check it out!

Sunday was cool and snowy (see photo below), perhaps fitting for the last day of the season at Wisp. Today’s weather will be isolated snow showers before 9am. Then, partly sunny through mid morning, then becoming sunny, with a high near 37 and a low around 28.

Wisp Resort is continuing their “Mission: Affordable” season pass offer through tonight at 11:59pm! The 2019/2020 season pass is just $279 with no blackout dates!

We had a nice time at the GLAF fundraising event Saturday evening. Great food, great entertainment from some very talented individuals and great attendance by those that support the arts around the lake:

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources opens registration April 3rd for Park Quest the family-based outdoor adventure program in state parks throughout Maryland. This year’s theme is “Off the Beaten Path — Arts, Activities and Adventures in Maryland State Parks.” Park Quest aims to engage families in outdoor activities to experience Maryland’s vast cultural, historical and natural resources on public lands and parks, including those in Garrett County.

Speaking of the Department of Natural Resources, anglers of all ages can now become citizen scientists by recording some basic information from their catch such as species, location and size directly to survey on their smartphone by becoming part of the Volunteer Angler Survey. This creative use of technology will help the DNR track species and related date.  Here’s more information.

In “my spare time” I review funding deals (pro-bono) for Maryland Industrial Partnerships (MIPS), a program of Mtech at the University of Maryland.  These grants help all types and sizes of organizations across the state gain funding and utilize state of Maryland technical resources. I wanted to make sure our readers knew the deadline is May 1st for grant application submissions for the next round of funding. I know a number of western Maryland enterprises that could benefit from this program.

Here’s a photo of my wood pile Sunday morning.  Saturday was 72 degrees and Sunday we awoke to snow on the ground with flurries most of the day, and that’s no April Fools joke!

Weather today will be cloudy, with a high near 59 and a low around 50. A chance of showers before 10am. Saturday will be mostly cloudy, with a high near 63 and a low around 32. Showers overnight. Sunday will be rain likely, possibly mixed with snow showers before 8am, then a chance of snow showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 32 and a low of 20. Northwest wind 14 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.

Cole Davidson will be playing at the SipSide Lounge Friday evening starting at 5:30 pm.  With just a little later start-time, Matt Tichon is appearing at Black bear Tavern Friday at 6:00 pm.

Not to be left out of all the fun Friday evening, all middle school and high school teenagers are invited to Teen Night at the Oakland Armory starting at 6:30 pm and running to 9:30 pm. Cost of entry is only $1.00 per teen. Great idea whoever thought of this!

Bill’s Marine Service is holding their annual Spring Open House this Saturday and Sunday.  They will have on-water demonstrations, refreshments and boat show pricing available.

The Deep Creek Times team is looking forward to the Garrett Lakes Arts Festival fundraiser Saturday evening. It will be a great evening of show tunes performed by Sean and Debi Beachy & Friends with dinner catered by Savage River Lodge.

Lunch with critters?  Well, you are not allowed to eat them and they (probably) wont eat you, but you can watch them eat during their meal time on Sunday. Yes, it is “Hungry Critters” time at the Discovery Center Sunday afternoon from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm where you can watch their critters have their lunch. I am pretty sure there are no humans on the menu!

If you are not into watching the critters eat, you can join Ally Norris Music  for lunch and entertainment at MoonShadow on Sunday from 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm. It’s a free show and kid friendly and a nice way to spend a Sunday afternoon.

The next Chamber Business After Hours is on April 11th at UNO Pizzeria and Grill from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm. It is hosted by the Garrett County Board of Realtors. Here’s the link to register. I am going to go out on a limb here and guess they will have pizza on the buffet table. Just a hunch.

If you are planning your calendar, be sure to include the Taste of Garrett on May 5th at the Wisp from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm. This is always a great event and the funds go to Garrett Trails.  Further out, on June 1st to be exact, is the Garrett County Celtic Festival which will be held in Friendsville from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm that day.

Docks are going in! This photo was taken by Sarah yesterday:

Yesterday was bright and sunny.  Today will be increasing clouds, with a high near 58 and a low around 44. Slight chance of showers after 2am.

There was some excitement on Interstate 68 yesterday afternoon, with an apparent “situation” in play. Both directions of the road was closed for a period of time but were reopened about 2:30pm with a 42-year old man making threats against President Trump and the Pentagon.

The Greene Turtle is hosting their monthly Mug Club this evening from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm. Members get free food, fun swag, and a great Turtle Time. If you’re not a Mug Club member, you can join for half the price during the Mug Club Party.

Its Team Trivia Night at Mountain State Brewing Company this evening from 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm. House prizes are awarded for first, second and third place.

Just a friendly reminder that Garrett County Public Schools will be closed on Friday for Student-Teacher Conferences.

The traditional opening day of Trout season is this Saturday and Maryland’s put-and-take trout fishermen will be out all across the state. Fishing for a variety of species is also picking up at the lake, with walleye, yellow perch and chain pickerel being caught.  Find the latest on fishing throughout the state in the latest Maryland Department of Natural Resources Fishing Report.

This is different and unique: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is holding an open house at their Silver Spring, Maryland location this Saturday.  I know it is not in Garrett County area but should be really interesting for those interested in environment and weather. There will be a series of free activities, including engaging guest presentations, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities for ages 5 and up.

Yesterday was crisp and sunny!  Today will be the same: sunny, with a high near 48 and a low around 30.

Spring is here and a sure sign of its arrival is the fact that, as of today, docks are allowed on the lake for the season.

March is Women’s History Month and the Grantsville branch of the Ruth Enlow Library has virtual reality headset technology that will let you experience this important month in a new way. The library’s virtual reality session starts today at 1:00 pm and runs through 5:00 pm on the 29th! Stop in or call them at 301.895.5298 for more information or to reserve a spot.

Why not get some fresh air and root for the home team.  The Northern High School softball team is home today playing Mountain Ridge from 4:30 pm – 7:30 pm. Good old hometown, low-cost entertainment.

Take the dam survey please!  Note I said dam and not damn. Friends of Deep Creek Lake has an informative and important newsletter this month that covers details of, and issues relating to, the Water Appropriations Permit application that is up for renewal. They also have a link to a survey they are using to gather community insight.  This is important and worth the time to read.  And, yes, please fill out the dam survey!

Tonight, from 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm, this month’s Choose Civility discussion will be held at the Oakland branch of the Ruth Enlow Library.  The topic of this month’s open, non-partisan and respectful discussion is Gender and Sexuality.

Here’s a link to Maryland Historical Trust’s Flood Mitigation Guide for Historic Buildings.  Maryland has an abundance of natural waterways, coastal areas and lake assets so I thought our readers would find this of interest.

Yesterday was dreary and rainy.  Today will be sunny, with a high near 41 and a low around 22.

Wisp Resort announced yesterday that General Manager Jerry Geisler will be retiring this summer after more than four decades at Maryland’s only four season resort. Geisler has been the resort’s General Manager for the past six years and has served as an executive at the resort since 1982 when he became Operations Manager. Best of luck Jerry!

The Oakland branch of the Ruth Enlow Library will be holding Kids Book Club this afternoon from 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm. This is for children in grades four and five and is open to all.

What is the impact of drugs in Garrett County? Almost half of the inmates at the Garrett County Detention Center are there because of drug activity. The DFC Team is trying to solve the problem of drug use and abuse in Garrett County.

The County Commissioners have announced the agenda for their next public meeting on April 1st.  The meeting starts at 3:00 pm, but the public session starts at 4:00 pm, with all times being approximate. Here’s a link to the agenda.

Speaking of the county, pre-employment testing for Deputy Sheriff and Correctional Officer position applicants will take place on Saturday, April 6th, at 8:00 am in room 111 of the Garrett College GIEC. Click the link for more information including some pre-session action items for anyone attending.

While Garrett County is still very rural, it was even more-so in the past.  Here’s a historical photo (date unknown) looking east from Grantsville on Rt 40. Note the road is unpaved and there are limited buildings. Photo courtesy of Western Maryland Historical Library.

Calling all you potential Kings and Queens! The call is out for applicants for Autumn Glory King and Queen.  If you are, or know, a Southern or Northern Junior (that will be a senior next fall) make sure they know about this (and the submission deadline).  Here’s some more information. I would think this would be a really great experience for a local young person and it would also look very good on a college or job application.

The snow is finally melting and revealing many downed trees throughout the campground at Deep Creek Lake State Park. Consider replenishing your firewood supply before camping season begins on April 15th! Firewood permits are available for $20 per cord of wood (that’s a deal). Call 301.387.5563 for more information or stop by Headquarters to purchase your permit. Deep Creek Lake State Park, 898 State Park Road, Swanton, MD 21561.

Here’s a list of April offerings from the Garrett Institute of Lifelong learning (GILL) of Garrett College:

Tour of HART for Animals – Tuesday, April 2nd, 10:00 am – 11:30 am

Members will be given a tour of the facilities, including the veterinary wing, deluxe boarding area, and the adoption wing for cats and dogs.  Learn about this business model that strives to use the profits from the vet and boarding side of the business to pay the expenses of a no-kill shelter.  Discover the volunteer opportunities, including: the Pick of the Litter retail shop, moving animals between shelters through the transport program, fundraising, and spending time walking dogs or playing with kittens in the adoption wing, as they wait for their forever homes.  Members who wish to bring a donation for the animals can visit www.hartforanimals.org/shop for a list of needed items.  The cost to attend is $6.

Salt Cave – Friday, April 12th, 10:15 am – 12:30 pm

To carpool to Bruceton Mills, members are to meet at the Continuing Education parking lot in McHenry at 10:15 a.m.  There are only eight slots available, so members are encouraged to register in advance.  Since the early 19th century Europeans have visited salt mines or caves to promote better health.  Over 30,000 pounds of salt was imported from Pakistan to create the salt cave we will visit in Bruceton Mills, W.Va.  We’ll relax in zero gravity chairs, listen to soothing music and breathe the mineral saturated air for 45 minutes.  Participants are encouraged to dress comfortably and wear slip on shoes.  The cost for this session is $20.

Garrett County Health Fair – Saturday, April 13th, 8:30 am – 12 pm, CARC Gymnasium

Visit the GILL table at the Garrett County Health Fair.  There’s no better way to stay healthy than keeping your mind engaged in new topics, make new friends while you enjoy social outings, and move your body by chasing one of Garrett County’s naturalists through the woods exploring nature’s wonders.  GILL is offering a health fair special for new members only– individuals can join and the $10 annual membership will begin immediately and run through June 2020.

Soup and TED: Environmental focus in honor of Earth Day – Thursday, April 18th, 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm, Garrett College Southern Outreach Center – Oakland

TED talks provide a platform to individuals on a diversity of topics. The goal of TED is to spark conversation, connection, and community.  The talks are presented without bias and without a commercial, political, or religious agenda.  Bring a dish to share (soup will be provided). Come enjoy lunch, a TED talk, and a discussion of the presentation with Sue Fowler, featured presenter, and Bob Newman, featured soup maker.

 Painting Party with Countryside Canvas – Thursday, April 25th, 11 am – 1:00 pm, Garrett College Southern Outreach Center in Oakland

Join us for a fun painting party!  Members will choose one of two designs (Northern Lights or Red Sunflower) at the time of registration.  Each design is pre-traced on a 16” x 20” canvas.  Early registration is encouraged, as seats are limited.   This is a great experience for those who have always wanted to paint but have never tried, or for those who love to paint.  Dawna Rodeheaver will be providing step-by-step instructions for each painting.  Please wear clothing that you don’t mind getting dirty – aprons are great alternatives.  The cost for this session is $35 and includes materials.

NOTE for all sessions above: Registration is required.  If you are not a GILL member and wish to join in order to register for a session, please contact Continuing Education Workforce Development at 301-387-3069.  More information on the Garrett Institute for Lifelong Learning is also available by contacting at jean.tumbarello@garrettcollege.edu or www.garrettcollege.edu/GILL.

Today will be rain, mainly after 11am. High near 44 and a low around 22. Tonight will be rain and snow likely before 11pm, then a slight chance of snow between 11pm and 2am. Little or no snow accumulation expected.

I couldn’t attend, but if the overflow parking at Saturday’s Gun and Cash Bash at the Deep Creek Volunteer Fire Department was any indication, they had a great showing and a great time. If you attended, I hope you won something.

Ashley Bodkins from the University of Maryland Extension office will be at the Kitzmiller branch of the Ruth Enlow Library from 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm this evening to present a demonstration on Plants for Sun and Shade. Registration is required but it is free and open to all.

Mary Callis of Garrett Lakes Arts Festival just reminded us that Tuesday is the cutoff to purchase tickets for GLAF’s “A Night on Broadway” concert fundraiser this coming Saturday, March 30th. They have some great music, food, drink and other activities planned.  Sarah and I and our respective spouses will be attending, as Deep Creek Times is a sponsor, and we hope to see you there. Here’s a link to more information and for ticket purchases. Looking forward to it.

The Garrett County Steps to Better Health Committee (STEPS) is offering three scholarships to Garrett County residents who are pursuing a career in a healthcare field. The three $500 scholarships will be awarded to two 2019 Garrett County graduating high school or home school students living in Garrett County, and one non-traditional student enrolled at Garrett College. Good luck, and thanks STEPS!

Speaking of health-related topics, The American Red Cross is in URGENT NEED of blood, especially those with types O negative, A negative and B negative. In response, the Garrett County Health Department has scheduled its next blood drive for Friday, April 19th, from 12:00 pm – 5:30 pm in their first floor conference room. To schedule an appointment please download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App on your smart phone, call Venessa at 301.334.7730 or 301.895.3111, or visit www.redcrossblood.org. Walk-ins are also welcome.

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) – Garrett Branch is celebrating its 70th(+3) anniversary to celebrate its history in Garrett County.  AAUW-Garrett Branch will be hosting an anniversary dinner on April 12th at Ace’s Run Restaurant & Pub.  Advanced registration with AAUW is required. Those who have been members of AAUW at any time or who wish to celebrate a mother or grandmother who was active in AAUW are invited to attend the anniversary dinner, as is anyone from the general public.  Tickets for the dinner are $30/person, and reservations must be made by April 1^st. To register for the anniversary dinner and/or learn more about becoming a member of AAUW-Garrett Branch, please call Judy A. Carbone, Branch President, at 301.616.5036.

I am working on a new cover story on Deep Creek-area non-profits for our April edition.  Please feel free to send me any suggestions for local non-profits you would like me to include in this brief cover piece. I am curious as to what I hear back and will do my best to mention all.  In the meantime, please check out this month’s Cover Story on our collaboration partner Lisa Cole and her Wildfulness podcast.  She is a talented story teller and her edutainment channel covers some interesting topics that will resonate with all interested in our mountain Maryland history, people and lifestyle.

Look at this smile from our instagram follower https://www.instagram.com/instapamd/:

The rain came later than expected on Thursday, at least in my part of Garrett County. Today will be snow showers, mainly after 10am. Some thunder is also possible. High near 35. Breezy, with a west wind 18 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 43 mph. Total daytime snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches possible. Tonight will be snow showers mainly before 11pm and mostly cloudy otherwise, with a low around 20. Blustery. New snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches possible. Saturday will be mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 37 and a low around 26. Sunday will be mostly sunny, with a high near 50 and a low around 37.

Come grab some cheese fondue, chocolate fondue or both! Sit down, relax and enjoy with a glass of wine or craft beer from the tap at the North Glade Inn’s casual Fondue Night today from 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm. Sounds gooey but good.

Jason Shaw will be performing at Sipside Lounge in Oakland from 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm Friday evening. And, the Baer Bones Band is playing at Black Bear Tavern Friday evening from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm. Day Old News is performing at Moonshadow Friday as well, from 8:00 pm – 11:00 pm. Check out our Entertainment Guide for more music an our Upcoming Events for other events this weekend.

The Garrett College Foundation has been preparing for this year’s upcoming Spring Scholarship Benefit. The 9th annual fundraiser will take place on Friday, May 10th at Twin Tails Event Farm in Oakland. Sounds like a great event with cocktails, dinner and some great music and other entertainment planned.  All proceeds from the event will support scholarships for Garrett College students. I hear that Twin Tails takes Farmhouse Charm to a whole new level.  Contact the Foundation for more information or for tickets.

The Deep Creek Volunteer Fire Department is holding their annual Gun and Cash Bash Fundraiser on Saturday.  Check it out as always fun and you may even win some money or a bazooka, plus proceeds go to a good cause.

March 29 is the deadline for nominations to be postmarked for receipt by the Garrett County Commission for Women for the Women’s Hall of Fame and for the Commission’s scholarships: The Commission is seeking nominations for outstanding Garrett County women for induction into the Hall of Fame on May 4 and the Commission also awards five general scholarships of $500 and one $5,000 scholarship. More information can be found here.

Mosses and ‘Manders oh my!  The Discovery Center at Deep Creek State Park is offering a number of nice programs (as usual) this weekend. This one focuses on moss identification and salamanders too, and is on Saturday from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm.

This is a bit long, but since I mentioned the Garrett College Foundation Spring Scholarship Benefit, above, I thought I would include some information just issued about Maryland’s 16 community colleges (known as the sweet sixteen). Garrett College is the smallest in the state, but together with the other 15, it adds some serious value to our people and communities.  Check out these important, interesting and perhaps surprising facts about our state (and Garrett County’s) community colleges:

1. 70% of Maryland freshmen and sophomore college students are enrolled in one of Maryland’s 16 community colleges.

2. Each year, Maryland’s community colleges enroll a diverse population of nearly 500,000 students – 150,000 in credit programs and 350,000 in continuing education and workforce development courses.

3. At the very core of the missions of community colleges is accessibility to a diverse population. Community colleges effectively cater to those working full-time jobs, caring for an aging or ill family member, those serving in the military, and many other life circumstances. We do so through innovative day, evening, weekend, and 24/7 online opportunities.

4. More than 50% of Maryland’s community college students transfer to in-state colleges and universities to complete their baccalaureate degrees.

5. Maryland’s community colleges have dozens of transfer agreements with colleges and universities, both in-state and out-of-state, that guarantee the maximum number of credits will transfer and save students thousands of dollars in achieving their bachelor’s degrees.

6. There are 156 non-credit program options at Maryland’s community colleges that meet professional licensing and certification requirements for in-demand jobs within our local communities – to over 100,000 students annually.

7. The average student-to-faculty ratio at Maryland’s community colleges is 16:1, which encourages a collegiate environment of increased student/faculty engagement.

8. Maryland’s community colleges engage diverse student populations through enriching co-curricular activities, service opportunities, and clubs. Students participate in successful, competitive men’s and women’s intercollegiate athletic programs as part of the Maryland Junior College Athletic Conference (MDJUCO) and the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA).

9. 88% of alumni from Maryland’s 16 community colleges remain within the state and they contribute to their local and state economies by purchasing goods and services and as engaged tax-paying citizens.

10. Since 2009, there has been a 40% increase in community college completions. During this time, the cost of higher education has skyrocketed becoming the 2nd highest consumer debt behind mortgages. Students who start at a Maryland community college can save 60% compared to public four year colleges, 76 % compared to forprofit colleges, and 91% compared to Maryland private colleges’ tuition costs.

11. Community College students learn from an accomplished faculty that is student-focused. Additionally, student support is one of the ways community colleges stand out among other higher education institutions. Typical services include academic and career advising, counseling, tutorials, health care, financial aid, and library and computer lab services.

12. Nearly $10 billion is pumped into Maryland’s economy every year by our 16 community colleges. (equivalent to employment of 150,000 people)

13. By 2020, 69% of Maryland’s jobs will require a postsecondary education. Community colleges are the largest single workforce trainer in Maryland.

14. Due to Maryland’s community college students and their completion, Maryland will see avoided social costs amounting to $494 million annually, equal to the sum of avoided costs related to health, crime, and unemployment.

15. Maryland community colleges offer degree, certificate and skills training programs to support workforce development for the region’s fastest growing industries such as nursing, allied health, cybersecurity, and hospitality.

16. Graduating from one of Maryland’s community colleges has proven to have a profound impact on earnings. The median income for graduates more than doubles three years after completion when compared to student earnings one-year prior to graduation.