Deep Creek Lake MD News and Local Resources: Daily Notes

The weather today will be showers. Patchy fog. A chance of thunderstorms this afternoon–highs in the lower 60s. Southeast winds of around 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph. The chance of rain is nearly 100%.

Plan your 2025 vacation and save with Taylor-Made Deep Creek Vacations! For a limited time, enjoy 10% off 7+ nights on your next getaway! Don’t miss your chance to secure the ultimate retreat — reserve your stay today!

First United Bank & Trust is sponsoring the Union Rescue Mission of Western Maryland in receiving a $1 million grant from FHLBank Atlanta to help develop 80 affordable housing units in Cumberland, MD. The $4.4 million project supports efforts to reduce homelessness.

Learn how to grow and care for lavender with Anne, owner of Deep Creek Lavender Farm, this Saturday, May 17, at 10:00 AM! Get tips on growing, trimming, and overwintering lavender, plus enjoy lavender lemonade and shortbread cookies. Plants are available for purchase.

The MVA will unveil its first-ever on-site driving test course at the Oakland branch today at 3:00 PM, giving Garrett County residents a local option for non-commercial road tests.

Take on the challenge with Ranger Noah during Take a Hike Tuesday—a 4-mile trek that’s all about the benefits of getting outdoors. Meet at the New Germany Lake House at 10:00 AM.

The Garrett County Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting today at Northern Middle School. Public comment begins at 4:00 PM, followed by an executive session until 5:50 PM. The public session runs from 6:00–7:45 PM, with time for constituent comments around 7:00 PM. The meeting is open to the public and will also be live-streamed.

Garrett County continues to see cases of rabies in 2025. Protect your pets and family by bringing your dogs, cats, and ferrets to the rabies clinic at Swanton Community Center today from 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Cost is $5.00 per animal.

Friday, May 9, Saturday, May 10, and Sunday, May 11, 2025: The weather today will be mostly cloudy. Patchy fog in the morning. Numerous showers, mainly in the morning – highs in the mid-50s. Northwest winds 5 to 10 mph. The chance of rain is 70%. Saturday will have areas of frost in the morning. Sunny, with highs in the mid-60s. Northwest winds 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 25 mph. Sunday will be mostly sunny, with highs in the lower 70s.

Maryland has seen a 3.6% increase in brick-and-mortar retail businesses since 2020—below the U.S. average—as new tariffs drive up costs and raise concerns about supply shortages and slower retail growth.

The State Fire Marshal warns of the “Chromebook Challenge,” where students insert metal objects into charging ports, causing fires and damage. Parents and schools are urged to educate students on the dangers and promote safe device use to ensure a safe learning environment.

Looking for ways to give back? Consider donating to the Garrett County Public Schools Lunch Angel Fund. Your support helps cover lunch account balances for students in need, ensuring all kids have access to a meal, regardless of financial status.

Southern Garrett High School won the 2025 Garrett County Envirothon at the Hickory Environmental Education Center! Student teams from Northern and Southern Garrett High Schools competed in outdoor conservation challenges, testing their skills in wildlife, aquatics, forestry, soils, and current environmental issues.

The Garrett County Health Department honors National Nurses Week and the vital role nurses play in caring for our community and promoting public health.

Take a look at this month’s featured real estate listings from Taylor-Made Deep Creek Sales!

Celebrate 25 years of geocaching with the Master Naturalists at Sang Run State Park on May 17 at 1:00 PM! Learn how to use the Geocaching app, then head out on a short hike to find hidden treasures—dress for the weather and get ready for some fun!

Missed the EGGstreme Easter Egg Hunt? You can still join the fun through Sunday—find eggs on the trails and swap them for candy at the Ranger Station (open daily, 8 AM–4 PM)!

Puzzle lovers, head to the Grantsville Library today at 4:00 PM for an afternoon of puzzles and light refreshments during Puzzle Club!

Polska Polish Pottery celebrates its 1st anniversary this Saturday, with food, music, giveaways, and a special invite-only event—message your name and address to attend, and wear Polish colors to show your spirit!

Cycle the Savage happens this Saturday! Riders can enjoy up to 20 miles through Savage River, Big Run State Park, and the Savage River Dam, starting at the Big Run pavilion. Loops pass through Celebration Village with free snacks, water, and additional water stations along the way.

The 10th Annual Mountain Maryland Native Plant Festival is this Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM at New Germany State Park! This free event highlights the connection between native plants, people, and wildlife—fun and learning for all ages.

St. Mark’s Lutheran Church will host a collection for Bikes for the World this Saturday from 10:00 AM to 1:30 PM at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church—rain or shine. Donate repairable bikes, parts, or sewing machines, plus a suggested $10 to support global distribution.

Ace’s Run will offer a special Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet on Sunday from 10 AM to 2 PM, featuring a delicious mix of sweet and savory dishes to make the day even more special.

Spend Mother’s Day at Wisp Resort’s McHenry Lodge with a buffet, complimentary photos, and a special gift for moms! Enjoy brunch, acoustic music by Jesse Shimrock, and stunning mountain views. Available Sunday from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM with reservations for 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 1:00 PM.

Make Mother’s Day Weekend memorable with outdoor adventures and live entertainment for you and your loved ones.

The weather today will be mostly cloudy in the morning, then partly sunny. There will be patchy fog in the morning–highs will be in the mid-60s. West winds will be 5 to 10 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph in the morning.

I tried a my first matcha yesterday at Trader’s Coffee House. Have you tried it? It was pretty good with cherry flavoring and foam.

There’s a new listing in our marketplace: a Stihl Power Tools Assortment. All items are gas-powered and being sold as a set after transitioning to electric. Find it now under the Tools category!

Get $2 off any Large Wedgie every Wednesday at Fox’s Pizza Den in Oakland—it’s Wedgie Wednesday!

It’s Double Nickel Wednesday at Deep Creek UNO! Stop by today between 11:00 AM and 10:00 PM.

Worried about identity theft? Head to the Grantsville Library today at 11:30 AM for the Identity Theft Money Mentor Workshop—an informative session on how to protect yourself and your information.

Pasta Night is on every Wednesday from 4:00 PM to 8:30 PM at Ace’s Run Restaurant and Pub—delicious dishes you won’t want to pass up!

Big Sandy Brews is bringing the flavor with a hands-on fermenting session you won’t want to miss! Get Bent & Ferment with DJ as he guides you through making delicious Ramp-chi Cucumbers. For just $25, you’ll walk away with your own jar and the skills to keep the fermenting fun going at home.

The weather today will be patchy fog in the morning. Mostly cloudy with isolated showers in the morning, then partly sunny with numerous showers and isolated thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs in the upper 50s. Southwest winds 5 to 10 mph. The chance of rain is 70%.

I was part of the send-off committee for the MTC “Maryland in a Day” promo!

The Maryland DNR is accepting applications through May 23 for the Sport Fisheries Advisory Commission, which advises on statewide recreational fishing issues. Nine of the 17 seats are open to applicants from across Maryland. Apply via the Governor’s Appointments Office website.

Deep Clean Detailers has launched their new website! You can explore detailing packages and the new Season Coverage plan to keep boats looking sharp all season long.

Garrett Regional Medical Center will offer a Safe Sitter course on June 21, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM. For grades 6 and up, this \$40 course covers safety, first aid, childcare, and business skills. Pre-register by May 30, 2025.

In case you haven’t heard, Big Sandy Brews has a tasty little secret: Taco Tuesdays are Totally Taco Tasty! Swing by for 2 beef tacos for $5 or 2 pork tacos for $7.

“Maryland In A Day” kicks off at Deep Creek Lake today as MTC’s Chris Riehl begins his statewide tour with a DCL100 Committee interview. Stop by to cheer him on—no prep needed, and free t-shirts may go to the first 10!

Help protect regional biodiversity today from 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM at the Native Plant Garden near the Lake House during “Weed or Wildflower?”—bring gloves, weeding tools, and water as you pull unwanted plants and learn how to spot native species (weather dependent).

The weather today will be partly sunny, with patchy fog in the morning. Isolated showers in the morning, then showers and scattered thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs in the upper 60s. Southeast winds 5 to 10 mph. The chance of rain is 80%.

Did you catch the Maryland by Air broadcast this weekend? It was a great showcase of the state and some friends and I got our 5-seconds of fame. The photo below is a behind-the-scenes of (L to R) Sharon, Mary, and Jared cruising on their fat bikes in the snow (if you watched, this was right before Jared hit the drone):

Maryland By Air Behind the Scenes

With Mother’s Day coming up this weekend, stressed-out Maryland moms say Deep Creek Lake is the perfect escape, according to a survey of 3,000+ moms craving a peaceful “momcation” over the usual brunch or flowers.

Treat your mom to something special from Bear Creek Traders!

Cristina Sanders has been appointed Lake Manager at Deep Creek Lake, effective May 14, 2025. With a Master’s in Biology and experience with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Bureau of Land Management, she brings expertise in aquatic ecology and land-use management. Cristina is eager to engage with the community and support the stewardship of Deep Creek Lake.

Garrett County officials urge landowners to seek legal advice before signing easement agreements, as these can grant permanent access for utility projects and may impact land use, property value, and program eligibility.

The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) is developing a State Transportation Trails Strategic Plan and is seeking public input. The 15-minute survey, best completed on a desktop, will help shape the future of Maryland’s transportation trails. Take the Survey Now.

Bill’s Marine Service is now operating on summer hours.

Volunteers are needed Saturday, May 17, at 9:00 AM to plant wildflowers in the Demo Garden at Deep Creek State Park, near the boat launch dock—rain or shine. Part of the “10% in 10 Years” buffer strip project. Bring gloves and a shovel or trowel. Questions? Contact Carolyn Sheaffer at 301-616-5740.

Miss the EGGstreme Easter Egg Hunt? You can still find eggs on the trails through May 11—bring them to the Ranger Station (8 AM–4 PM daily) for candy!

Head to the Grantsville Library on Monday mornings at 11:00 AM for Children’s Story Time—an hour of stories, crafts, and activities for kids ages 2 and up that encourages a love of reading.

Seed to Supper at Kitzmiller Library continues tonight from 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM with “Caring for Your Garden (Part 1).” Enjoy hands-on demos, free garden gifts, and practical tips—attend all sessions to earn a $50 EarthBox!

The Creative Writers Group meets at the Grantsville Library every other Monday from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. Writers of all levels are welcome to share their work, listen to others, and receive constructive feedback in a supportive setting. Free and flexible—come and go as you like.

The weather today will be mostly cloudy with isolated showers in the morning, then mostly sunny with scattered showers and isolated thunderstorms in the afternoon. Highs in the lower 70s. Southwest winds 5 to 10 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph. The chance of rain is 50%.

Snail on the trail photo by my friend Kylee!

Registration for the 2025 Garrett County Tax Sale is now open online at https://garrett.marylandtaxsale.com.

What’s your favorite trail town along the Great Allegheny Passage? Do you prefer day hikes or thru-trips? Where do you usually stop along the way? And are you a solo adventurer or someone who travels with friends? We’d love to hear about your latest trek or regular rides in this brief survey. Your feedback is confidential, but you can include your name and email if you’d like a chance to win a free GAP jersey. Take the survey here!

Celebrating 30 years of service! Three dedicated team members at the Garrett County Health Department—Eric Cvetnick, Linda Bolding-Colaw, and Craig Umbel—mark a major milestone in public health. Their commitment has shaped the health and well-being of our community for three decades. Here’s to many more years of dedication!

On April 29, 2025, the Civic Club of Oakland presented a generous $675 donation to AAUW-Garrett Branch, supporting 13 new scholarships totaling over $10,000. This increased contribution will help empower local women and girls in Garrett County through education and opportunities.

The Garrett County Health Department has confirmed a second rabies case for 2025 after two recent incidents involving a raccoon and a fox. Residents are reminded to avoid contact with wild animals and ensure pets are up to date on rabies vaccines. Rabies clinics are scheduled—check out the article for the full list of dates and locations.

Here’s the April 2025 Record of River and Climate Observations.

Cindy’s Fund presents the Great Strides Walk on Sunday, May 18, at 1:00 PM in downtown Oakland (registration begins at noon). $35 includes a shirt; kids in strollers are free. Register now!

Head to Faith Church every Friday at 6:30 PM for Celebrate Recovery—a welcoming space for anyone dealing with hurt, hang-ups, and habits.

Catch Lake&Lure’s newest designs and some BIG surprises at the Towson Town Festival on May 3–4! Stop by for great vendors, food, bands, and more.

Celebrate International Women’s Mountain Biking Day with DCAB on a fun, casual ride! Held every first Saturday in May, it’s all about women coming together to enjoy the ride, connect, and share their love for the trails.

Visit the Farmers Market this Saturday starting at 10:00 AM! Enjoy local eggs, meats, canned goods, mushrooms, and handcrafted items. It’s more than shopping—it’s a gathering to welcome the season and connect with the community. Support local artisans and vendors while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere!

Spend a creative afternoon at Deep Creek Pottery this Saturday from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM making a beautiful sunflower mosaic! You’ll design your own one-of-a-kind piece, and they’ll help you grout it before you head out. Cost is $50 per person—feel free to bring a snack and your favorite beverage!

Make the most of the weekend! Outdoor adventures and live entertainment are lined up for a memorable time with family and friends.

In many ancient calendars, May 1 welcomed the first day of summer, which was truly a cause for celebration. May Day has been a traditional day of celebration for centuries, with some of the earliest appearances in pre-Christian times. One of the more popular rituals was harvesting flowers and giving them to neighbors and strangers in cone-shaped baskets.

The weather today will be partly sunny with a chance of showers in the morning, then mostly cloudy with showers and a chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon—highs in the mid-70s. South winds 5 to 10 mph. The chance of rain is 80%.

Starting June 1, the Maryland DNR will adjust non-tidal fishing license and trout stamp fees for the first time in nearly 20 years to support conservation and angler programs.

Maryland ranks 11th in the nation for Medicaid mental health care, with a Behavioral Health Performance Index score of 55.81, according to a new analysis. As mental illness rates rise, especially among young adults, Medicaid enrollees are disproportionately affected. With potential federal cuts looming, access to care in Maryland and beyond could face serious challenges.

Celebrate Mother’s Day at Wisp Resort on May 11 from 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM with a delicious buffet, live acoustic music, complimentary photos, and a special gift for Mom. Seatings at 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM, and 1:00 PM. Reserve your table now!

The Ruth Enlow Library will screen Free For All: The Public Library for free on Wednesday, May 21, at 5:00 PM at the Main Library in Oakland. A community discussion will follow.

The Deep Creek Watershed Foundation presents Pickin’ ‘n Grinnin’ in the Barn on May 31 from 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM at the Red Barn Inn, featuring cocktails, appetizers, a silent auction, a gourmet dinner, and live bluegrass music.

Miss the EGGstreme Easter Egg Hunt? You can still join the fun through May 11! Find eggs on the trails and bring them to the Ranger Station (open daily, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM) for candy.

Dementia Live® is an interactive training that offers participants a powerful glimpse into life with dementia, using hands-on tools to build empathy and improve caregiver support. The session takes place today from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Kitzmiller Assembly of God Church.

A group of walkers meets every Thursday for the Loch Lynn Walking Group at 10:30 AM at the Loch Lynn Soccer Fields to promote a healthier lifestyle. All ages are welcome—it’s a fun and healthy way to bring the community together!

Need support to quit nicotine? The Virtual Quit Now Class meets at 5:30 PM and offers free cessation aids to help you stop using vapes, cigarettes, snuff, and more.

Deep Creek Adventure Bureau is hosting women’s+ casual group trail/MTB bike rides, welcoming riders of all abilities. Meet at 5:15 PM today, with wheels down at 5:30 PM, and expect to return around 7:30 PM.

Ace’s Run Restaurant and Pub invites you to a 4-Course Wine Pairing Event tonight at 6:00 PM, led by Lora Sevigny. Enjoy four wines paired with delicious small bites from Chef Samantha Clemons.

The weather today will be mostly cloudy with a chance of showers in the morning, then sunny in the afternoon. Highs in the upper 60s. Northwest winds 5 to 10 mph. The chance of rain is 50%.

Hickory Environmental Education Center has been named a Sustainable Bronze 2025 Maryland Green Center by MAEOE! It’s now part of a statewide and global network supporting 693 Maryland Green Schools and 40 Green Centers.

The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has named the 2025–2027 Purple Star Schools from eight school systems, honoring their outstanding support for students from military families.

Introducing the Fantasy Valley Fore-Pack — four fully transferable rounds of golf to use solo or with friends! Enjoy stunning views and spring savings at Fantasy Valley Golf Course, right at the base of Wisp Resort.

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

It’s Double Nickel Wednesday at Deep Creek UNO! Stop by today between 11:00 AM and 10:00 PM!

Got a young reader? HART for Animals’ Reading Buddies program lets kids read to adoptable pets in Enzo’s Library—and they can even take the books home!

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

Expecting or new mom? Parent Workshop: Pregnancy, Postpartum, and the Pelvic Floor is happening today from 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM at Garrett College, Room 111. Hosted by the Judy Center, this session covers pelvic floor health, recovery, and overall wellness during pregnancy and postpartum.

Agrivoltaics: Building Security for Your Farming Legacy is today! Learn how dual-use solar can boost revenue, stability, and new opportunities for farmers and landowners. Get valuable insights to diversify income and sustain your farming legacy.

The weather today will be mostly sunny, with highs in the upper 70s and a low of 53. Southwest winds of around 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 25 mph.

Will I see you at the Taste of Garrett County? I’ll be sure to let you know my favorite food!

This morning, I got a compliment on my Explore More t-shirt! Grab yours here: https://deepcreektimes.etsy.com/

Mosser Casting is looking for background actors of all ages for HERSHEY, a major motion picture about Milton and Catherine Hershey! Filming starts in May 2025 in Pittsburgh, PA, and nearby areas.

Garrett County is planning for a more walkable, bikeable future — and your input matters! Review the draft recommendations and share feedback on the Pathways and Connections StoryMap by May 1, 2025.

It’s Taco Tuesday at Big Sandy Brews! Grab some delicious tacos and soak up the good vibes!

Take a Hike Tuesday brings a challenging 4-mile trek with Ranger Noah today at 10:00 AM—enjoy the fresh air and the energizing benefits of the trail!

Today’s the day for Amazing Grazing: A Taste of Garrett County!  Stop by the Ag Hall at the Fairgrounds from 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM for local flavors and culinary favorites.

The weather today will be sunny, with highs in the lower 70s. Southeast winds of around 5 to 10 mph.

Do you know what kind of snake this is? Sorry I don’t have a better photo…

Maryland State Parks visitors can win prizes in 2025 by completing 25 park-related challenges. The “25 in 2025 Adventure Challenge” invites participants to find and photograph scenic and historic spots in various parks.

Auditions for Finding Nemo Jr. are April 27 & 28, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM at Our Town Theatre. Open to all kids 18 and under who haven’t graduated. Rehearsals and shows (June 19–22) will be in northern Garrett. Audition packets are available here.

The Garrett County Health Department is offering low-cost rabies vaccination clinics for dogs, cats, and ferrets this May. With one confirmed rabies case in the county, pet owners are urged to vaccinate their animals. Clinics will be held in Grantsville, Swanton, Friendsville, and Oakland. Check out the linked article for full details.

The Behavioral Health Administration will review the Garrett County Local Behavioral Health Authority’s Strategic Implementation Plan today at 10:00 AM. The hybrid meeting will be held via Google Meet and in person at the Garrett County Health Department. GCLBHA staff invite you to attend and hear BHA’s feedback on the FY26 plan submission.

Need to clear your record? FREE Expungement Clinic today at 4:00 PM at the Kitzmiller Library. Get advice from legal professionals on expunging criminal records.

Spring 2025 Icon Class starts today! If you secured your spot by April 12, get ready for sessions every Monday from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, April 28–June 9 (no class on Memorial Day).

The Springs Historical Society invites everyone to The Wild Life of Meshack Browning tonight at 7:00 PM, featuring Chris Nichols. The event will take place at the Springs Folk Meeting House, across from the Springs Store.

The weather today will be mostly sunny, with highs in the mid-70s. Southeast winds will range from 5 to 10 mph.

Here is the Maryland Fishing Report and Spring Trout Stocking update as of April 23: The Maryland Department of Natural Resources crews have stocked more than 5,000 trout. In Garrett County, Accident Pond and Bear Creek have received golden and rainbow trout. Anglers targeting the delayed harvest and catch-and-release trout management waters are enjoying great action, with stocked trout gradually reverting to wilder behavior and responding well to fly-fishing and artificial lures in select areas. Fishing for a mix of walleye and smallmouth bass is also good this week at Deep Creek Lake and the upper Potomac River.

Deep Clean Detailers is back for another season of boat detailing! Keep your boat clean and protected—reach out today to get on the schedule.

It’s Thursday Movie of the Week! Catch DROP today for just $6.00—a suspenseful thriller where a widowed mother’s first date in years takes a dark turn as she receives anonymous threats during their upscale dinner, leaving her to wonder if her seemingly charming date is behind it all.

Celebrate Arbor Day today at 10:00 AM with a 1.5-mile moderate-to-difficult hike, and learn to identify a variety of tree species along the way.

Walk your way to better health with the Loch Lynn Walking Group! All ages are welcome—it’s a fun and healthy way to bring the community together. Meet at the Loch Lynn Soccer Fields every Thursday at 10:30 AM!

Garrett County is proud to join the nationwide effort to combat prescription drug misuse by participating in the DEA National Prescription Drug Take Back Day this Saturday, April 26, 2025. This annual take-back event offers a safe, anonymous, and convenient way for community members to dispose of unused, expired, or unwanted medications.

Support the Yough Glades Theater Department Dough Raiser today at Deep Creek UNO! Present your coupon with your dine-in or take-out order, and up to 20% of your check total will be donated to the organization!

NOW HIRING: The 33rd Annual Garrett County Job Fair is today from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at the Garrett County Fairgrounds, Ag Heritage Hall, connecting employers with job seekers.

Ladies, experiencing perimenopause or menopause? Get real about hot flashes and more with Melissa Laidacker, CRNP, MSCP, from UPMC Magee Women’s in Central PA, at the Getting Real about Perimenopause and Menopause Tele-Town Hall today at 5:00 PM. Ask questions about symptoms, concerns, and frustrations!

Need support to quit nicotine? The free Virtual Quit Now Class starts today at 5:30 PM. This 4-week program helps you quit vapes, cigarettes, snuff, and more, with free cessation aids included.

Deep Creek Adventure Bureau is offering women’s+ casual group trail/MTB bike rides for all abilities. Meet at 5:15 PM, wheels down at 5:30 PM, and return by 7:30 PM. Start with a basic trail riding skills review, then enjoy the trails with stops to practice skills and snap photos of bikes and wildflowers.

Test your Deep Creek Lake knowledge with the last Team Trivia Night tonight from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Ace’s Run! Enjoy food, drinks, and win prizes, including a custom DCL100 award for the top team each week. Our team won two weeks ago!

Today is the final session of Finding Your Roots: Organize Your Genealogy Spring 2025 Series – Virtual Workshop, Part IV: All Those DNA Matches – What Do They Mean? It will take place tonight from 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM EDT. This session will cover techniques for organizing DNA matches into genetic networks and using them effectively in your family research.

I caught this evening glow last night.