Deep Creek Lake MD News and Local Resources: Daily Notes

The weather today will be sunny, with highs in the lower 30s. West winds will be 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph.

The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for the 2025 Emerging Entrepreneur Award, honoring ambitious newcomers driving local economic growth. The award will be presented at the Annual Membership Meeting & Dinner on June 5, 2025.

Over 100 rural Maryland stakeholders attended the Rural Maryland Council’s legislative breakfast, raising concerns about the state’s $2.7 billion budget deficit.

Get ready to hit the ice at JTF! Public Skate Sessions are just $6 per skater, with an additional fee for skate rentals. Even better, weekday sessions from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM are only $6, including skate rentals—perfect for some midweek fun on the rink!

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with Boudoir Mini Sessions at Smoke N Mirrors Photography, available now through February 13, 2025. You’ll receive six professionally retouched images uploaded to a private online gallery, perfect for sharing with someone special. Plus, you’ll get an app link for easy access and the option to purchase prints from your gallery à la carte. Don’t wait—secure your session today!

Check out the exciting programs happening at Ruth Enlow Library branches today! Whether you’re a kid or an adult, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

The weather today will be mostly cloudy with scattered snow showers and snow accumulation of around an inch possible. Highs will be around 19°F, with west winds of 5 to 10 mph and gusts up to 20 mph, and a 50% chance of snow. Saturday will be mostly sunny, with highs in the upper 20s, southwest winds of 10 to 15 mph, gusts up to 25 mph, and wind chill values as low as 7°F below zero in the morning. Sunday will be mostly cloudy, with highs in the upper 20s.

I went cross country skiing yesterday.. what a fun time! I fell twice but the snow was a fluffy cushion! Photo courtesy of Katie Alvarez.

The Department has proposed changes to the Put-and-Take trout stocking program, including area modifications and eliminating the Closure 2 designation. Effective January 20, 2025.

RCAP Solutions, part of the Department of Transportation’s Thriving Communities Program is leading a visioning process to help determine the Kitzmiller school building’s future. Please take the survey: https://bit.ly/KitzmillerSurvey

As of January 23, Maryland Department of Natural Resources crews have stocked 6,400 trout.

The Garrett County Community Action Committee, Inc. is seeking bids for roof repairs at the Grantsville Senior Center. Contractors meeting federal labor standards are encouraged to apply. Bids are open until January 30, 2025.

The Maryland Heritage Areas Authority (MHAA) FY26 grant round is open with over $5M in matching funds for heritage projects starting July 2025. Submit your Intent to Apply form by January 27, 2025, at 11:59 PM.

MARBIDCO has announced the Maryland Value-Added Producer Matching Grant (MVAPG) to help agricultural producers pursue USDA’s $30M Value-Added Producer Grants in 2025.

Our Town Theatre is thrilled to announce auditions for its first full-length Shakespearean play, Romeo and Juliet! Auditions will be held January 26 & 27 from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM at the theatre. Director Jennifer Virts is seeking at least 15 actors, with additional small and non-speaking roles available for all ages. Set in the Roaring 20s, this retelling features warring gangsters and speakeasies. Performances run April 2–13.

Attorney General Anthony G. Brown and attorneys general from 10 states issued a joint statement today responding to a memo from a Trump-era appointee at the U.S. Department of Justice on state and local roles in federal immigration enforcement.

Don’t miss out on Happy Hour at Deep Creek UNO! Swing by the lounge Monday–Friday and Sunday from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM for great deals and good vibes.

Need a ride for the Super Bowl? 🏈🚐 Use Deep Creek Shuttle for safe, reliable transportation! Rides within 12 miles of Deep Creek Lake: $18 one-way, $30 round-trip. Book on the app today! (Extra charges apply for distances up to 20 miles.)

Come to Pick of the Litter this weekend to shop, mingle with kitties, and support HART for Animals! With sunnier skies and warmer weather expected, it’s the perfect time to get out of the house. Stop by on Friday from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Saturday from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM, or Sunday from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM!

GRMC will hold an official ribbon-cutting ceremony today at 2:00 PM to celebrate the newly renovated Health & Wellness Services Regional Behavioral Health Center, located at 69 Wolf Acres Drive in Oakland.

Deep Creek Pottery offers Saturday pottery classes for kids this January, featuring weekly projects for $25 each. Classes run from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, with parents welcome to join.

Get your bikes ready! Deep Creek Adventure Bureau cohosts the 2nd Annual Highlands Fat Bike Series in Canaan Valley, WV, this Sunday. On-site registration is available! 🚴‍♀️❄️

The weather today will be mostly sunny, with a slight chance of snow showers in the afternoon. Highs will be around 30°F, except in the mid-20s at higher elevations. Southwest winds of 10 to 15 mph are expected, with gusts up to 25 mph. The chance of snow is 20%, and wind chill values may be as low as 17°F below zero in the morning.

Garrett County Public Schools will open two hours late today, January 23, 2025. Central Office facilities will open on time.

The Department of Natural Resources is kicking off the 2025 trout fishing season with early stockings this week, weather permitting. Trout will initially average about half a pound, with larger fish released later. Stocking is focused on areas suitable for ice and winter fishing, with more locations added as conditions improve. Stay updated with email alerts, the Trout Stocking Activities Map, or the Trout Stocking webpage. Winter trout fishing is a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors!

January is often seen as the year’s gloomiest month, with Arctic conditions ushering in 2025. While some started the month with optimism, the thrill of Christmas gifts has faded, and New Year’s resolutions may have slipped. But good news, Maryland—the gloomiest day of 2025 is already behind us!

Maryland senators have agreed to a 20-bill cap per senator to help streamline the legislative process.

The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science is celebrating 100 years of environmental research, education, and public service. Since 1925, UMCES has tackled critical challenges, from protecting the Chesapeake Bay to addressing climate change. The Centennial kicks off in January with events honoring its legacy and future vision. Check the article for the schedule of events!

The Maryland Comptroller’s office released two reports on community development: the Nonprofit Impact Report on improving nonprofit-government collaboration, and Child Care & the Economy, which examines pandemic-era childcare challenges and trends using state and federal data.

Treat yourself to Double Dinner Deals at Brenda’s Pizzeria! On Thursdays after 4:00 PM, two can enjoy a delicious dinner for just $35!

You know what never goes out of style? Steak! Swing by Firewater Kitchen & Bar every Thursday for Steak Night, starting at 4:30 PM!

The Judy Center is excited to invite Garrett County families with children from birth to 5 years old to a free Virtual Parent Workshop tonight from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, held online. This workshop offers valuable tips, tools, and resources to help young children thrive during these critical early years.

What a beautiful shot of Roanoke Ave in Loch Lynn by Raven Nichole Johnston!

The weather today will be sunny in the morning, becoming partly sunny later. Highs will reach around 14°F, with southwest winds at approximately 5 mph. The chance of precipitation is 65%.

Extreme Cold Warning: From 4:00 AM, January 20, to 7:00 AM Thursday, January 23, 2025. Wind chills may drop to -35°F, risking frostbite in 10 minutes and frozen pipes. Stay safe!

Please note that all afternoon and evening activities scheduled by GCPS for January 21 and 22, 2025, have been canceled.

Find out about this year’s United Way of Garrett County Annual Campaign from Michele Walker.

Are you signed up for this year’s Community Dunk?! Check out this link to learn more… for a minimum donation, you can get a sweatshirt and meal coupon.

If you’re so inclined, I’ll be dunking again this year! Please help me raise funds for the Special Olympics Maryland!

Get $2 off any large Wedgie at Fox’s Pizza Den in Oakland this Wedgie Wednesday!

Don’t miss out on today’s tasty deal! 🍴 The Wednesday Deli Special at Arrowhead Market is available from 10:30 AM to 8:00 PM!

The Tri-State Hay and Pasture Conference is today, from 9 AM to 3:30 PM, at Grantsville VFD. A light breakfast and lunch are included. Admission is $40 at the door.

The DCL Pickleballers welcome participants to enjoy indoor pickleball sessions every Wednesday (10 AM–noon) at the Ag Hall, Garrett County Fairgrounds, through March 19, with most Fridays included. 🏓

Enjoy Pasta Night at Ace’s Run Restaurant and Pub every Wednesday from 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM!

Head to MoonShadow tonight at 7:00 PM for Music Bingo – a fun night of tunes and games awaits!

Thanks to Lee Chris for this awesome snowy view of Limpopo Lane.

The weather today will be partly sunny with a chance of flurries in the morning, then mostly cloudy with snow showers likely in the afternoon. Little or no snow accumulation is expected. It will be cold, with highs around 15°F, except around 10°F above zero at higher elevations. West winds will be 5 to 10 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph. The chance of snow is 70%. Wind chill values may drop as low as 20°F below zero.

We’re up to about 75 inches of snow so far this season!

Garrett County Public Schools will hold Synchronous (live instruction) Virtual Learning Days today and Wednesday, January 21 and 22, 2025.

Applications are open for the GRMC Nurse Extern Program! This summer, earn while you learn and jumpstart your nursing career with this incredible opportunity. Apply by March 30!

The QUIT NOW classes continue this January! Attend sessions in Oakland from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM or in Grantsville from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM. These classes offer support and free cessation aids to help you quit nicotine.

Ranger Noah will be at the New Germany Lake House today at 10:00 AM for a challenging 4-mile hike. Enjoy outdoor exercise and connect with nature on a rewarding journey.

The public meeting will take place today at 4:00 PM in the Board of County Commissioners Public Meeting Room at the Garrett County Courthouse. This meeting was originally scheduled for Monday, January 6, 2025, but was canceled due to weather.

Firewater Kitchen & Bar presents Industry Night every Tuesday from 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM—an evening dedicated to appreciating everyone in the restaurant and hospitality industry.

The weather today will be cloudy, with a chance of snow showers in the morning. Snow accumulation of up to 1 inch is possible. It will be colder, with highs around 7°F. West winds will range from 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph. The chance of snow is 50%. Wind chill values could drop as low as -17°F.

On this MLK Day, let’s remember the powerful words and actions of Dr. King and strive to make a positive difference in our community.

AccuWeather experts say recent extreme weather is the costliest in nearly a century. Dr. Joel N. Myers warns that wildfires, hurricanes, and rising costs could lead to significant migration out of California.

Know a young woman (ages 11–20) leading efforts to support women’s and girls’ rights? Whether she’s advocating for menstrual products, leading a gender equity club, supporting women in politics, or volunteering for advocacy groups, encourage her to apply! Applicants must submit a personal statement, a short essay, and a letter of recommendation by noon on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.

If you enjoy the outdoors in Maryland, please take about 10 minutes to complete this survey; This feedback will be used to inform Maryland’s 5-Year Land Preservation, Parks and Recreation (LPPRP) Plans and connect the dots to funding opportunities!!

Also, take this quick survey and share your thoughts on outdoor recreation in nearby West Virginia.

Submit your nominations for the 50th Annual Maryland Preservation Awards by 11:59 PM on February 7, 2025! Presented by the Maryland Historical Trust Board of Trustees, these awards honor outstanding efforts in historic preservation, heritage education, and community development across Maryland.

Over the past decade, U.S. home prices have surged 95%, outpacing wage growth (44%) and inflation (33%). In Maryland, homes now cost $149K more than 10 years ago.

High schoolers: Love the outdoors? Experience the Natural Resources Careers Camp in Garrett County, July 20–26! Enjoy fishing, tree-planting, and more while exploring careers and college options in natural resources.

Skate sessions at JTF Ice Rink are closed today through January 22 due to extreme cold. Stay warm and safe!

Valentine’s Day Boudoir Mini Sessions at Smoke N Mirrors Photography are available now through February 13, 2025! Enjoy a 30-minute shoot and receive six professionally retouched images in a private online gallery.

Stop by the New Germany Lake House today at 10:00 AM to learn about native birds and craft your own bird feeder with natural materials. This come-and-go program lets you drop in anytime during the scheduled hours!

Friday, January 17, Saturday, January 18, and Sunday, January 19, 2025: The weather today will be mostly cloudy with scattered snow showers and a chance of freezing rain in the morning, then mostly sunny in the afternoon. Little or no additional snow accumulation is expected. Highs will be in the lower 30s. West winds will be 10 to 15 mph, becoming southwest at 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon. The chance of precipitation is 50%. Saturday will bring rain showers, transitioning to snow showers in the afternoon. Highs will be in the upper 30s. Southwest winds will be 5 to 10 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph. The chance of precipitation is 90%. Snow is likely on Sunday, with highs in the lower 20s. The chance of snow is 70%.

Martin Luther King, Jr weekend is the weekend where the federal holiday in King’s honor is on the Monday following the weekend. King was the chief spokesperson for nonviolent activism in the Civil Rights Movement, which protested racial discrimination in federal and state law and civil society. The movement led to several groundbreaking legislative reforms in the United States. President Ronald Reagan signed the holiday into law in 1983.

Looking for the perfect dining table for the family the gather but you have a smaller space? This custom piece combines a stunning rod iron base with a light brown chalk-painted solid wood top, offering both style and function. Check out this Custom Dining Table now on our online marketplace under the “Furniture” category!

They say Squatch roams the backwoods, but have you spotted him zooming by on a snowmobile? Squatch left us a challenge: Guess where he’s been in Garrett County, and one lucky commenter will win a FREE Deep Creek Lake Roamer lightweight hoodie! To enter, comment your favorite place in Garrett County and like our Squatch contest post on Facebook. Enter by 1/24!

Check out the latest GCPS Calendar Updates: Early Dismissal, MLK Holiday, and Schedule Adjustments.

The Maryland Sport Fisheries Achievement Award, established in 2019, recognizes individuals for their efforts in habitat management, conservation, education, research, or other contributions benefiting fish and recreational fishing in Maryland. Nominations are accepted until January 31 each year through an online form.

The Southern Garrett Marching Band presents the 2nd Annual SHOWCASE of LEGOS on Saturday, January 25, 2025, from 1–4 PM at the Southern High School Cafeteria! Show off your best Lego builds, wear a costume, decorate your table, and share your creations with guests. The table registration deadline is today, January 17.

Skate with JTF this weekend! Public Skate Sessions are $6 per skater, plus a skate rental fee. Group rentals are also available—contact JTF for reservations.

Find clarity and guidance with Shannon at Cards & Soul Sessions today from 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM at Cashmere Clothing Co. She’ll also have copies of her journal, “Shining Through the Shadows of Grief,” a heartfelt guide for healing and honoring loved ones.

Chapter #67 of the Order of the Eastern Star invites you to an All-You-Can-Eat Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser on Saturday starting at 11:00 AM at the Oakland Masonic Lodge. Enjoy spaghetti, garden salad, garlic bread, dessert, and a drink for a free-will offering. All proceeds support the Honduras Mission Trip with Crossroads Church. Dine-in and take-out are available!

Get creative at Deep Creek Pottery by painting an adorable snowman jar on Saturday from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM! Tickets are $60 each and are limited, so grab yours soon. Your finished piece will be ready in a few days!

Deep Creek Pottery hosts kids’ pottery classes every Saturday this month from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM! Each $25 class features a new project with customizable glaze colors, ready in two weeks or less. Parents can join in too!

High Mountain Gospel Riders are hosting a Chili Cook-Off to benefit CMA Run for the Son this Saturday from 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM! Tasting and judging start at 3:30 PM, and the winner will be announced at 5:00 PM. Bring a crockpot of chili, toppings, utensils, and an ingredients list!

Celebrate National Popcorn Day this Sunday at Garrett 8 Cinemas! Bring your own 200 oz. bucket for a $5 refill and enjoy the fun with the theater crew!

Deep Creek Pottery is offering a Sunday Funday “Make a Mug” event this Sunday from 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM! Create a unique mug with slabs of clay, choose your glaze color, and the pottery team will take care of the rest.

Get ready for an exciting weekend of events and entertainment at the state park—rain or shine, we’re ready for a great time!

The weather today will feature snow showers with an accumulation of 2 to 4 inches. Up to 10 inches on the ridges. Highs will be in the lower 30s, except in the mid-20s at higher elevations. Southwest winds will blow at 10 to 15 mph. The chance of snow is near 100%. Wind chill values could drop as low as 3 below zero in the morning.

Garrett County Public Schools will be closed today, January 16, 2025, due to a winter storm warning and impending inclement weather—Code Orange for employees. The Central Office Facilities will open at 10:00 a.m. Please note that if there is a 2- or 3-hour delay on Friday, January 17, 2025, schools will remain in session for the entire day, and the early dismissal/staff development will be canceled.

Stay alert! Beware of a smishing scam about unpaid tolls. If you’ve received a text claiming you owe money, it’s likely a phishing attempt. Do NOT share personal info or make payments.

Attorney General Anthony G. Brown warns consumers to also watch out for fraudulent charities when donating to wildfire relief efforts in California. Scam artists often exploit disasters to set up fake charities, so be cautious before giving.

The Highlands Fat Bike Race at Lions Club McHenry Community Park was a true test of grit! With freezing temps and powdery snow, 54 riders pushed through one of the toughest courses yet. Exhausted but smiling, they’re ready for more. The next race is on January 26, 2025, at Canaan Valley Resort State Park. Register by January 23 and get ready to take on the challenge! The series runs through March with plenty of tough terrain and fierce competition!

Thomas Anthony Warnick was welcomed as the first baby of 2025 at Garrett Regional Medical Center at 7:00 PM on January 1. Parents Mackenzie and Mike Warnick, from a local Maryland community, are proud of their son, who weighed 6 pounds, 13.6 ounces and was 19 inches long.

Garrett 8 Cinemas’ Thursday Movie of the Week is Homestead! Please note their updated hours—Garrett 8 will now be closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Join Priya Cardone, DO, for PD Parlor, a free monthly Zoom webinar by the Parkinson Foundation of Western Pennsylvania. Held every third Thursday from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM, each session covers a new topic on Parkinson’s care and treatment.

Brenda’s Pizzeria is serving up Double Dinner Deals—two can dine for just $35 every Thursday after 4:00 PM!

Craving something delicious? Steak never disappoints! Steak Night at Firewater Kitchen & Bar kicks off every Thursday at 4:30 PM!

Pirates, Poets, and Scribes take over MoonShadow tonight at 6:00 PM for an open poetry jam you won’t want to miss!

The weather today will be partly sunny in the morning, then becoming mostly cloudy. There is a 20% of snow showers. Highs around 15. West winds 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph. Wind chill values as low as 14 below.

Due to extreme cold and a Cold Weather Advisory, Garrett County Public Schools will have a Virtual Learning Day today. Schools are closed for in-person learning.

206 Alder Bistro and Bar has updated its hours for the winter.

Save the date for a Group Snow Trek with Deep Creek Adventure Bureau, Seth Dewitt, and Chris Nichols on February 2 at 12:00 PM at Deep Creek Lake Lion’s Club! Enjoy an afternoon of hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or fat tire biking through the winter trails! ❄️🚴‍♂️🌲

Deep Creek Lake Lion’s Club recently held training for the Blind Skier Guides, helping high school guides work with visually impaired skiers. The club is still seeking Ski Guides for the Blind Skier Program—no expert skiing skills are needed, just a desire to serve and have fun! Program dates are January 21–22, 28–29, and February 4–5 and 11–12. For more information, contact Deep Creek Lake Lion’s Club.

Visit Deep Creek UNO for lunch and enjoy their Daily Lunch Specials, available Monday–Friday from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM!

Hooked on flavor? MoonShadow has you covered! Every Wednesday night, MoonShadow serves up delicious Fish & Chips or Shrimp Baskets—crispy, golden perfection with hand-breaded fish and shrimp served just the way you like it. Pair your meal with a specialty cocktail or an ice-cold beer for the perfect midweek treat. Don’t miss out on this weekly special at MoonShadow every Wednesday!

It’s Wedgie Wednesday! Enjoy $2 off any large Wedgie at Fox’s Pizza Den in Oakland!

The DCL Pickleballers welcome players for indoor pickleball at Ag Hall, Garrett County Fairgrounds! Play from 10:00 AM–noon every Wednesday through March 19 and most Fridays.

Attend the Tucker Community Foundation’s first Garrett County nonprofit session, Partnering for Progress, today at the Performing Arts Center, Garrett College! Connect with other nonprofits and explore resources to strengthen your impact.

Enjoy Pasta Night at Ace’s Run Restaurant and Pub every Wednesday from 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM!

Tonight at 6:30 PM, Barb is hosting a “Snowman” painting session at Big Sandy Brews! Create your own masterpiece on an 8×10 canvas for only $20.

The weather today will be partly sunny, with snow showers in the afternoon. Snow accumulation will be around an inch. It will be blustery, with highs around 17 West winds will range from 15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 40 mph. The chance of snow is 90%. Wind chill values could be as low as 13 below.

Look at this moonrise I captured last night in Oakland!

“New Year’s Resolutions” often feel like a joke—and for good reason. Studies show 23% quit within the first week, and 64% give up by the end of January. Feeling discouraged? Check out the top tips to stay on track with your goals!

The Rotary Club of Oakland’s annual Christmas Project supported nearly 200 children and 198 seniors in Garrett County with gifts and $10,000 in gift cards, funded by French fry sales, donations, and fundraisers.

Due to a Cold Weather Advisory and the forecast of low wind chills, Garrett County Public Schools will have a Virtual Learning Day with live instruction today, January 14, 2025. Students have been sent home with all necessary materials. For technical assistance, contact 1-888-285-7254 or helpdesk@gcps.net. The monthly Board Meeting and Northern Area Proposal Public Hearing at Northern Middle School will proceed as scheduled.

Southern Garrett High School’s Student Council will host Joshua Mayne, MA, from Top Youth Speakers, on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, in the SGHS cafetorium to discuss the dangers of vaping nicotine and THC. Parents, students in grades 3–8, and community members are encouraged to attend. Local resources on vape prevention will follow the talk.

Unforgettable escapes are just a click away! Check out the hottest specials at Taylor-Made Deep Creek Vacations and start planning your perfect trip!

The second session of Quit Now classes will take place today in Oakland from 9:30 AM – 10:30 AM and in Grantsville from 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM. These classes offer support and free cessation aids to help you quit nicotine.

The Garrett County Board of Education meets today at Northern Middle School’s cafeteria, followed by a public hearing on the northern area proposal. The meeting is open to the public and will be live-streamed.

Firewater Kitchen & Bar hosts Industry Night every Tuesday from 4:30–8:30 PM—a night dedicated to appreciating those in the restaurant and hospitality industry.

The weather today will be mostly cloudy in the morning, then becoming partly sunny. Scattered snow showers are expected, with snow accumulation of up to 1 inch possible. Highs will be in the mid-30s, except around 30°F at higher elevations. West winds will be 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 35 mph. The chance of snow is 40%.

We had a great Highlands Fat Bike Series Race event at the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club! Congrats to our winners:

Youth – Ryan Pyska – 2 laps (local Garrett County Coyote)
Womens Open – Julia Kastner  2:21:06.7          –
Mens Open – Zach Bittinger 1:33:47.6
Masters (45+) – Dan Larino 1:32:52.4

Consider following me on Facebook or Instagram at Deep Creek Adventure Bureau for the full event wrap-up!

GCPS will operate on a normal schedule today, January 13, 2025, with no virtual learning day.

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources is proposing its first fee increase in 17 years for freshwater fishing licenses and trout stamps due to rising costs from inflation. The trout stamp price hasn’t changed since 1992, despite a 129% increase in related expenses, causing program costs to exceed revenue. If approved by the Maryland legislature, the annual nontidal resident fishing license would rise from $20.50 to $32, and the resident trout stamp from $5 to $20, with nonresident fees also increasing. These changes, recommended by a diverse workgroup, aim to sustain freshwater fisheries without needing further fee hikes soon.

Skate sessions at JTF Ice Rink are still available for $6 per skater, with an extra fee for skate rentals. Weekday sessions from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM are $6 and include skate rental. The rink is also open for group reservations—contact JTF Ice Rink directly to book.

Valentine’s Day Boudoir Mini Sessions: 30-minute shoot with 6 retouched images in a private gallery, plus an app link. Prints available à la carte. Now through February 13, 2025.

A free training session for the Maryland private applicator exam is today from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM at the Extension Office. Materials are available in print (for a fee) and online. The exam will be scheduled in spring in Garrett County, with a new online testing option from MDA.

The weather today will be partly sunny in the morning, then becoming cloudy, with highs in the mid-20s. West winds will range from 5 to 10 mph, and wind chill values could drop as low as 7 below in the morning. The chance of rain is 20%. Saturday will be mostly cloudy with snow mainly in the morning, highs in the mid-20s, and west winds at 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 30 mph. The chance of snow is 90%. Sunday will be mostly sunny with highs in the upper 20s and a 35% chance of rain.

I attended the DCL 100 Kick-Off event last night and what a great turnout! Send me a message if your business would like to display a DCL 100 bunting and I can connect you. Check out the website and all of the activities and events planned and be sure to follow the initiative on Facebook. It’s going to be a great year!

Garrett County Government is stepping up to support Garrett Transit Service, ensuring its continuity amid funding challenges. GTS is vital for many, connecting residents to work, medical appointments, and essential services, especially for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low-income families.

First-time homebuyers, especially millennials, face challenges in today’s market, partly due to baby boomers planning to age in place. Boomers own 36.7% of Maryland homes, the 13th fewest in the U.S.

Deep Creek Pottery’s Sunday Funday “Make a Mug” event is on January 19 from 2–3:30 PM. Create a custom mug with clay slabs and choose your glaze. Reserve your spot today!

Today is the final day of the Fur Ball Online Auction! Don’t miss your chance to bid on an amazing selection of items from the comfort of your home. Every dollar raised supports our mission to save the lives of homeless animals. 🐾

Deep Creek Pottery offers Saturday kids’ pottery classes this January for $25 per session, featuring weekly projects with customizable glazes. Classes run from 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM, and parents can join too!

The Highlands Fat Bike Series continues this Sunday at DCL Lions Club Community Park, bringing mid-Atlantic riders together for a thrilling winter biking experience! Online registration is closed but we’d be happy to see you and do in-person registration on Sunday! 🚴❄️

Deep Creek Pottery is hosting a Sunday Funday from 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM, where you can create a custom clay luminary! Design, carve, and choose your glaze—ready in two weeks or less!

Get ready for an exciting weekend with state park events and entertainment. Your weekend just got better!

The weather today will be mostly cloudy with snow showers in the morning, then mostly sunny with a chance of snow showers in the afternoon. Patchy blowing snow is expected, with a total snow accumulation of 2 to 4 inches. It will be blustery, with highs in the mid-20s, except around 18 at higher elevations. Northwest winds of 15 to 25 mph are forecast, with gusts up to 45 mph. The chance of snow is 90%. Wind chill values could drop as low as 10 below zero in the morning.

Will O’ the Wisp was looking really pretty last night!

Garrett County Public Schools will open on a two-hour delay today.

Our recently listed bistro table and chairs on the online marketplace are now at a reduced price: find it in the “Furniture” category.

January is prime for hiring, with HR professionals recommending it as the best time for speculative resumes. A survey of 3,000 hiring managers highlights Monday, January 13, 2025, as the top day to apply in Maryland.

Interested in restoring a historic property? Attend today’s 10:00 AM webinar to learn about grants, deadlines, and more. MHT is hosting webinars and in-person workshops for the Historic Preservation Capital Grant Program through February. Grants support construction on buildings listed or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places.

Double Dinner Deals at Brenda’s Pizzeria – Dinner for two is $35 every Thursday after 4:00 PM!

Steak is always a good idea! Steak Night at Firewater Kitchen & Bar every Thursday at 4:30 PM!

The Deep Creek Lake Centennial Kickoff Networking Event is today at Dutch’s at Silver Tree! Enjoy food, drinks, and prizes while connecting with others and learning about 2025 Centennial events and projects. Open to all, with appetizers and a beer/wine bar included.

The weather today will feature a chance of snow showers in the morning, with snow showers likely in the afternoon. Additional snow accumulation of 1 to 3 inches is expected. Highs will be around 18°F, with west winds of 15 to 20 mph and gusts up to 35 mph. The chance of snow is 70%. Wind chill values are as low as 5 below.

The photo is taken at dusk last evening at Swallow Falls.

It has been snowing light and fluffy flakes essentially nonstop for the last 24 hours; I measured just about 3″ this morning in Oakland. The total for the season can be found here: Snowfall Totals.

Garrett County Public Schools will open two hours late today, due to inclement weather. Code Orange is in effect for employees. Administrative offices will open at 10:00 AM.

Rotary Club of Oakland members Tom Carr and John Heterick were honored as Paul Harris Fellows for outstanding service. The award was presented at the club’s recent holiday party.

Over $7.2 billion is expected to be invested in cancer research in the United States during 2025. A recent study revealed that Maryland ranks as the 5th best state for cancer research in 2025.

Northern Garrett High student Lily Chambers completed a biomedical capstone on blue light’s effects on eye health, raising awareness and funds for the GRMC eye center.

Winter transforms our trails into snowy playgrounds for skiers, hikers, snowshoers, and fat bikers. To keep things safe and enjoyable for everyone, here are some quick tips on winter trail etiquette.

McHenry Beverage Shoppe’s January specials are here! 🍷 Each single barrel is hand-picked by the team. Hurry—sale items are while supplies last! Don’t miss out—the sale ends January 31, 2025!

It’s Wedgie Wednesday! Get $2 off any large Wedgie today at Fox’s Pizza Den in Oakland!

Dutch’s At Silver Tree is serving up its Wednesday features today from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM!

Did you see the bistro table and chairs listed for sale in our marketplace?

The DCL Pickleballers welcome everyone to enjoy a fun session of the fastest-growing sport in America! Play takes place at the Ag Hall at the Garrett County Fairgrounds from 10:00 AM to noon every Wednesday through March 19, and most Fridays.

Pasta Night is on at Ace’s Run Restaurant and Pub! Stop by every Wednesday from 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM.

Music Bingo is happening tonight at 7:00 PM at MoonShadow – enjoy a fun evening of tunes and games! 🎶✨