Deep Creek Lake MD News and Local Resources: Daily Notes

Friday, January 31, Saturday, February 1, and Sunday, February 2, 2025: The weather today will be rainy with highs in the mid 50s, except in the upper 40s at higher elevations. Southwest winds will be 10 to 15 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph in the afternoon. There’s a 100% chance of rain. Saturday will be mostly cloudy with a chance of rain in the morning, then mostly sunny in the afternoon. Highs will be in the mid 30s with northwest winds at 10 to 15 mph. The chance of rain is 50%. Sunday will be mostly cloudy with highs in the mid 40s.

Deep Creek Lake area homeowners should be aware of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), specifically the H5N1 strain, which affects waterfowl nationwide. While rare in humans, the virus can spread through contact with infected birds or droppings, making vigilance important for community and wildlife safety.

To mark Deep Creek Lake’s 100th anniversary, the Maryland Park Service commissioned a stunning serigraph by artist Erick Sahler, capturing the lake’s natural beauty and the deep connection felt by all who visit.

The HabiChat: Winter 2025 edition is published! Read the linked article for details.

This weekend marks the close of some waterfowl hunting seasons, with remaining opportunities for resident Canada geese and light geese available. Hunters are encouraged to check online regulations for details. Additionally, Maryland youth hunters, veterans, and military personnel can participate in a special waterfowl hunting day on Saturday, February 8.

Garrett County Public Schools will begin accepting applications for kindergarten and Pre-K registration for the 2025-26 school year on February 10, 2025. Kindergarten is for children entering for the first time in September 2025, and Pre-K is for 3- and 4-year-olds. Registration will take place in April at each school. For more details, contact your school’s Registration Liaison or the Office of Elementary Education.

The Western Maryland Classic continues until tomorrow, bringing high school and college teams from around the country, the local area, and Canada to compete in an action-packed basketball event at Garrett College. Along with the logo I mentioned creating yesterday, I’m proud to share one of the commercials I created for the event.. it’s so cool to see it right next to Chipotle!

Mountain State Brewing Co. in Deep Creek Lake is still accepting reservations for their cozy igloos. This year, walk-ins are welcome Monday–Wednesday, though reservations are still available, while Thursday–Sunday reservations are required. ❄️

Registration for Rail Jam #2 on Saturday runs from 10:00 AM to noon in the Main Lodge at Wisp Resort. Skiers, snowboarders, and spectators are all welcome, whether you’re competing or cheering on friends!

It’s Marcia’s birthday on Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM at Cashmere Clothing, and she’s the one giving out the gifts! Enjoy a free gift with purchase, plus special deals—spend $200 and get $63 off, or spend $300 and take an extra $63 off! With refreshments, party hats, and noise makers!

Come celebrate Groundhog Day on Saturday with Ranger Hannah and Ranger Peyton at 1:00 PM at New Germany Lake House for a fascinating presentation on the natural history of groundhogs and the cultural significance of their weather forecasting reputation! Then, spend your Sunday with Deep Creek Lake State Park Volunteers. Learn about hibernation and create a woodchuck puppet to take home, starting at 11:00 AM in the Discovery Room.

On Sunday at 12:00 PM, meet Deep Creek Adventure Bureau, Seth Dewitt, and Chris Nichols at Deep Creek Lake Lion’s Club for Group Snow Trek, an informal hike, snowshoe, cross-country ski, or fat tire bike ride on the Browning Trail System. The largest loop is 2.4 miles, but the length can be adjusted based on weather and group preferences. Fingers crossed that our snowpack remains!!

“Make a Gnome” at Deep Creek Pottery on Sunday from 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM! Create a ceramic gnome with hand-building techniques, then return to paint it after it’s fired.

The Blessing of Throats in honor of St. Blaise will be offered at both Masses this weekend at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Parish. Bring your devotional candles to be blessed by Father Bill.

Exciting events and entertainment are happening at the state park—rain or shine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

The weather today will be mostly sunny, with highs around 40°F. Southwest winds will be 10 to 15 mph.

As of January 29, Maryland Department of Natural Resources crews stocked 1,800 trout.

Maryland’s 2024 NAEP scores showed modest improvements in math and steady reading progress. While scores have declined over the past decade, reading results remained stable, reflecting trends in Maryland’s MCAP assessments.

On January 24, 2025, GRMC held a ribbon-cutting for its renovated Health & Wellness Center in Oakland. The GRMC Foundation raised $500K for behavioral health.

Nominations for the 50th Maryland Preservation Awards close in ONE WEEK! Visit the awards webpage for guidelines, the nomination form, and details. Be sure to use the updated 2025 guidelines!

A survey reveals that being buried beside Edgar Allan Poe at Westminster Hall & Burying Ground is a top choice for Americans.

Maryland ranks 8th for employing women in construction as efforts grow to boost female participation in the industry amid a major worker shortage.

9th Annual Kids Fun Fishing Day is on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at 8:30 AM at Deep Creek Lake State Park, with registration at 8:00 AM. This free event requires an adult to accompany each child. Limited to 50 kids—pre-register! No drop-offs or childcare.

This Thursday’s Kitchen Takeover at Big Sandy Brews features Chef Mychal serving up his delicious Cottage Pie! Wondering what that is? Think Shepherd’s Pie, but with beef instead of lamb. Don’t miss Kabob-a-Dis Kabob-a-Dat’s chef bringing his culinary skills!

GCPS will be closed today, January 30, 2025, for parent-teacher conferences (11:00 AM – 6:30 PM). No school for students. Classes resume on January 31.

The JTF Ice Rink is partnering with Hart For Animals for their fundraising campaign for Mocha’s Fund! 🐾 Buy a Paw at the rink now through March 1st and support a great cause.

Garrett 8 Cinemas’ Thursday Movie of the Week is Sonic the Hedgehog 3!

Don’t miss three days of thrilling high school and college basketball at the Western Maryland Classic! As you all know, I work part-time for our county government and I created the logo and some footage to promote Garrett County!

GCPS is closed today for parent-teacher conferences from 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM. Classes resume Friday, January 31, 2025.

Enjoy Double Dinner Deals at Brenda’s Pizzeria—Thursdays after 4:00 PM, two can dine for $35!

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

The weather today will be cloudy. A slight chance of snow in the morning, then a chance of snow in the afternoon. Snow accumulation of around an inch is possible. Windy, with highs in the mid-30s. West winds of around 20 to 30 mph, with gusts up to 55 mph. The chance of snow is 50%.

Maryland’s Primitive Deer Hunt runs February 1 and February 3–4 statewide. Hunters with a valid license (or exempt) can use primitive bows or muzzleloaders to hunt sika and white-tailed deer.

Leonardo the Low Vision Lion kicked off the 53rd Deep Creek Lake Lions Club Blind Ski Program! Runs through February 13, 2025. Volunteers are needed on Tuesdays & Wednesdays.

The first Business Before Hours of 2025 is on February 25: R. Andrew Bauer from the Federal Reserve will present the annual “Economic Forecast.”

Mark your calendars for April 29, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Agricultural Hall at the Garrett County Fairgrounds for “Amazing Grazing: A Taste of Garrett County”! Enjoy delicious local flavors for just $40 if you buy before February 10th ($45 after), and kids 9 and under can attend for free.

The planning committee just had a meeting last evening. If you own or operate a Garrett County restaurant or know someone who does, let us know so this can be the most amazing Taste yet!

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

Play pickleball with the DCL Pickleballers! Enjoy sessions at Ag Hall, Garrett County Fairgrounds, Wednesdays & most Fridays, 10:00 AM-noon, through March 19.

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

The weather today will be partly sunny with a chance of snow showers in the morning. Snow accumulation of up to 1 inch is possible. It will be very windy, with highs around 40°F, except in the mid-30s at higher elevations. West winds of 25 to 35 mph with gusts up to 60 mph will diminish to 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 50 mph in the afternoon. The chance of snow is 50%.

📸: Photo by Nanette Snyder on Snowy Creek in Oakland, MD.

New on our marketplace! Two Ski Wisp gift cards, each valued at $100, for only $90 each. Check it out under the Gift Cards category! ⛷️

The Garrett County Chamber is accepting nominations for the 2025 Heise Entrepreneurial Spirit Award, honoring local entrepreneurs for their impact on Garrett County’s economic growth. The award will be presented on June 5, 2025, at the Annual Membership Meeting & Dinner.

Stage WEST Arts Collective has launched its new website, featuring all the latest on performing arts and arts education in Garrett County. It’s easy to navigate and filled with information on upcoming performances and ways to get involved and support their mission.

The 2025–2027 Garrett County Community Health Needs Assessment is now available online.

Get ready for an incredible event with three days of exciting high school and college basketball in Garrett County this weekend! Teams from around the country, the local area, and Canada will compete. The Western Maryland Classic is a must-attend event for basketball fans of all ages!

Feeling funky? Stay in the Funkomatik cabin at Blue Moon Rising and hit the slopes at Wisp Ski Resort, just 5 minutes away! ❄️ Use code SNOW30 to save 30% on any cabin until February 13th!

Don’t miss the second annual Community Dunk on Thursday, February 20, 2025! Watch local dunkers brave the frozen Deep Creek Lake to support Special Olympics Maryland – Garrett County athletes. Registration starts at 3:00 PM, with the dunk at 4:00 PM. Raise or pay $75 to dunk and get a sweatshirt/meal coupon. I’m still collecting donations here if you’d like to support but don’t want to brave the icy waters!

Love is in the air! 💕 Celebrate the month of love with Espresso Alley! Enjoy some classic favorites along with exciting new additions.

Take a look at this week’s schedule at Polska Polish Pottery of Deep Creek Lake.

Stop by Schoolhouse Earth to check out all the new arrivals!

QUIT NOW classes are being held today at two Garrett County Health Department locations. In Oakland, sessions will run from 9:30 to 10:30 AM. In Grantsville, sessions are scheduled from 5:30 to 6:30 PM. These classes provide support and free cessation aids to help you quit nicotine.

Take a Hike Tuesday! Meet Ranger Noah today at 10:00 AM at the New Germany Lake House for a challenging 4-mile hike and experience the revitalizing effects of outdoor exercise.

Firewater Kitchen & Bar’s Industry Night is every Tuesday, 4:30–8:30 PM! A special evening to celebrate everyone in the restaurant and hospitality industry.

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.

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.