Deep Creek Lake MD News and Local Resources: Daily Notes

January 1, 2024: The weather today will be partly sunny, with highs in the upper 40s and a low of 23. Southeast winds of around 5 to 10 mph. The chance of rain is 95%.

We have received another 3.25″ of new snow over the weekend.

Rotary Club of Oakland members Teresa Feather and Jessica Wilson were recently recognized as Paul Harris Fellows by Rotary International for their exceptional service to the club and local community.

There is a Lego Showcase on January 27, 2024, hosted by 4th grader Elwood for his ‘Be the Change’ Project. Help raise funds for the Southern Garrett Marching Band! Reserve your spot by January 22, 2024.

Begin the year with a New Year’s Hike! Here are the hikes taking place in Garrett County and neighboring towns. I’ll be leading the hike at Fork Run at 12pm!

Did you see our article about hosting for the holidays? I will be stopping by the holiday light show this afternoon.

The Online Fur Ball auction is happening from January 1st to 10th. Bid on fabulous items right from home and help the adoptable animals at HART!

Here’s a photo of the Christmas Eve Service at McHenry United Methodist Church sent in to us by Barb Law:

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Friday, December 29, Saturday, December 30, and Sunday, December 31, 2023: The weather today will be mostly cloudy, with a chance of snow and rain. Little or no snow accumulation, with highs in the mid-30s and a low of 29. West winds of around 10 to 15 mph. The chance of precipitation is 50%. Saturday will snow, mainly in the morning, with highs in the mid-30s and a low of 29. West winds of around 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph. The chance of snow is 80%. Sunday will be mostly cloudy, with a chance of snow and rain showers – highs in the upper 30s and a low of 29. The chance of precipitation is 40%.

The Garrett County Health Department’s Environmental Health Office cautions everyone about the potential for home heating appliances to emit dangerous carbon monoxide gas.

Last November 30, 2023, the Garrett County Health Planning Council met to talk about preventing diseases, promoting physical activity for public health, and updating grants and agencies.

This month, two rehabilitated bald eagles, Buck and Mo, accompanied by a group of Maryland Park Service Rangers, visited the White House to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Endangered Species Act.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to skate at the JTF Ice Rink before the year ends! They’re open this weekend, so be sure to plan your visit and enjoy some ice time.

Come along with Deep Creek Lake State Park this Saturday for a Winter Waterfowl Walk. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront as we search for ducks, geese, and swans! Many of these birds are exclusive to this region during the colder months, so don’t miss the opportunity. Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather!

Deep Creek Adventure Bureau invites you to a New Year’s Eve hike to bid farewell to 2023 and make way for a fantastic future. Join me at 12:30 PM at Garrett State Forest! Remember to bring water and gear for the cold, including gloves, neck gaiters, hot hands, and hats. The hike will cover approximately 2 miles with less than a 200-foot elevation change.

Celebrate the New Year in Garrett County and Deep Creek Lake, MD! Get ready to party – there are several New Year’s Eve celebrations hosted by our advertisers!

The holiday season is still in full swing, promising excitement and entertainment! Explore our weekend schedule featuring a range of entertainment options and state park activities.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Thursday, December 28, 2023: The weather today will be mostly cloudy. Scattered showers this morning. Patchy fog this morning, with highs in the upper 40s and a low of 31. West winds 5 to 10 mph. The chance of rain is 50%.

Garrett County Community Development is pleased to announce that Garrett Container Systems, a prominent manufacturer of aluminum containers, has received a $1.3 million grant from the Senator George C. Edwards Fund. This significant financial boost will contribute to local economic growth and the generation of new jobs.

Do you have your weekend planned yet? Join me and DCAB for a hike on Sunday or any of the other planned First Day Hikes on Monday!

The Deep Creek Lake Lions Club is forming an advisory committee for an inclusive playground. They seek input from locals and visitors to ensure a diverse range of perspectives. Share your insights by completing a survey.

Join the TEAM TRIVIA every Thursday at 6:30 PM at Mountain State Brewing DCL! Challenge yourself with some cold brews and enjoy the company of good friends.

Experience an incredible night at Honi-Honi Bar as Mike Whitehead & Co. takes the stage for an acoustic show!

Wednesday, December 27, 2023: The weather today will be showers, mainly in the morning. Patchy fog, with highs in the upper 40s and a low of 41. Southeast winds of around 10 to 15 Mph. The chance of rain is near 100%.

Allegany College of Maryland nursing students at the Garrett County Nursing Site in Oakland can secure financial aid and employment at Garrett Regional Medical Center through the WVU Medicine Aspiring Nurse Program after graduation.

Garrett College recently announced 41 new graduates, with 39 completing degree requirements in fall 2023 and two finishing their degree program last summer. Congratulations!

Enjoy the Wednesday specials from our advertisers: Indulge in Wedgie Wednesday at Fox’s Pizza Den, seize Want it Wednesday at Cashmere Clothing, and experience the Double Nickel Club at Deep Creek UNO.

Join this engaging session with a Naturalist in the Discovery Room today to gain insights into a distinctive creature—the Virginia opossum. Explore everything from pouches to the art of playing dead!

Come to Honi Honi Bar and enjoy a live acoustic performance by JJ Mason of Undercover.

Tuesday, December 26, 2023: The weather today will be patchy fog in the morning. Rain, with highs in the upper 40s and a low of 45. Southeast winds of around 15 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph. The chance of rain is near 100%.

Just a reminder! The Garrett County waste collection sites are open today (until 6pm) since the holiday was on a Monday.

Are you hosting guests this week? Here are some holiday hosting ideas!

I just found out about “Gnome week” .. since it’s not quite Christmas and not quite New Years this week is kinda up for grabs:

Everyone is welcome to visit the Discovery Center for a Reptile Encounter, where you can explore the captivating world of gentle reptile ambassadors! Suitable for all ages!

Join Ranger Noah on a 1-mile hike to celebrate the holiday season under the glow of the full moon. Experience the enchantment of the “Cold Moon,” the first full moon of winter. Don’t forget to bring a flashlight or headlamp!

Get ready for a night of incredible vibes and live music! Join the party at Honi-Honi Bar tonight as Matt Tichon & Co hit the stage to make your evening unforgettable.

Monday, December 25, 2023: The weather today will be partly sunny, with highs in the upper 40s and a low of 40. Southeast winds of around 5 to 10 mph. The chance of rain is 40%.

Merry Christmas!

Doublecheck the holiday hours for some your favorite Deep Creek Lake restaurants on our Christmas Holiday Hours page.

Witness nightly displays at the Joy of the Christmas Light Show from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, featuring over 40,000 lights to marvel at. Whether you prefer watching outdoors or tuning in from your vehicle’s radio, the show begins at the top of each hour.

Friday, December 22, Saturday, December 23, and Sunday, December 24, 2023: The weather today will be partly sunny, with highs in the mid-40s and a low of 29 — South winds of around 5 mph. The chance of rain is 5%. Saturday will be cloudy, with highs in the mid-40s—south winds of around 5 to 10 mph. The chance of rain is 25%. Sunday will be mostly cloudy, with highs in the upper 40s and a low of 36. The chance of rain is 55%.

GCPS, with BFM Architects and Shockey, is excited to announce an upcoming Open House for the Southern Garrett Elementary School Renovation and Addition Construction Project.

Whether you’re in need of a last-minute gift or all set for the Big Man’s arrival, treat yourself to cocoa and cookies at Cashmere Clothing. Enjoy specials and surprises all evening – maybe even find a gift for yourself!

Celebrate the holidays at Wisp Resort with daily magical adventures for the whole family. Enjoy Hot Cocoa Bars, Elves Workshops, Holiday Contests, and more!

Experience Wisp Resort’s First Rail Jam of the season this Saturday! Register from 10:00 AM to 12:00 NN at the Main Lodge. The competition welcomes skiers, snowboarders, and spectators. Dive into the excitement or cheer on your friends!

Craft a unique coil pot at Deep Creek Pottery! Roll and paint clay coils, then we’ll glaze and fire them—ready in 2 weeks or less! Just $25 per student!

Skate with Santa before he heads off on his global journey! All skaters get a free cocoa ticket. Join for a skate and chat. Only skating participants need to buy tickets.

There will be a Christmas Eve Candlelight service at McHenry United Methodist Church on Sunday at 7:00 PM, located on Mosser Road, across from the fairgrounds. Everyone is welcome.

This holiday season guarantees excitement and entertainment! Check out our schedule with a variety of entertainment options and state park activities this weekend.

Here’s our ongoing list of where to catch Santa around DCL!

Wednesday, December 20, 2023: The weather today will be sunny, with highs in the upper 30s and a low of 24. West winds of around 5 to 10 mph.

Support your community by contributing to the Garrett County Public Schools Lunch Angels Fund. Your donation helps cover negative lunch account balances, ensuring that all students, regardless of their meal eligibility, have access to daily meals.

For safety reasons, Casselman River Bridge State Park in Grantsville is closed. The historic bridge showed signs of deterioration, prompting closure until a restoration project starts in 2024.

Participate in the University of Maryland Extension and the Deep Creek Watershed Foundation’s inaugural virtual Brunch & Learn in 2024. Discover the inner workings of the Water Budget Model on January 11, 2023, at 10:00 AM.

Enjoy Wednesday specials from our advertisers! It’s Wedgie Wednesday at Fox’s Pizza Den, Want it Wednesday at Cashmere Clothing Co., and Double Nickel Club at Deep Creek UNO.

Discover a fresh trail for Walk it Off Wednesday and enjoy the revitalizing benefits of outdoor exercise during this challenging 4.5-mile hike led by Ranger Noah. The hike will start and finish at the Daniel Cresap monument (across from Dans Mountain Pool).

Hickory Environmental Education Center’s annual holiday open house is today from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Explore the nature hall, enjoy a brief planetarium presentation, and savor light refreshments. Open to all!

Tuesday, December 19, 2023: The weather today will be mostly cloudy, with snow showers likely this morning, then partly sunny, with a slight chance of snow showers this afternoon. Total snow accumulation is around an inch. Blustery, with highs in the mid-20s. West winds of around 15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 40 mph. The chance of snow is 70%.

GCPS Inclement Weather Update: Garrett County Public Schools will conduct a synchronous Virtual Learning Day (live instruction) today. Schools will be closed for in-person learning. Liberal leave is in effect.

GCPS is excited to welcome Mrs. Gloria Smith as our new Director of Finance. With a wealth of private sector experience, she brings proven success in budget management, financial forecasting, and strategic financial implementation.

Garrett Regional Medical Center’s maternity care department is recognized as a top performer in the U.S. by U.S. News & World Report. Celebrated for high-quality care for mothers and infants, GRMC, part of the WVU Health System, excels in providing exceptional healthcare in a rural setting.

The Maryland State Board of Education has retained Hazard, Young, and Attea Associates to conduct a nationwide search for the next Maryland State Superintendent of Schools. Working alongside the State Board, the firm will begin its work immediately to lead recruitment, stakeholder engagement, vetting of qualified candidates, and conducting outreach to assist in the State Superintendent selection and appointment process.

The holiday schedule for the landfill and six waste collection sites is now available from the Garrett County Department of Public Works – Solid Waste & Recycling Division. View the complete schedule here.

Join Cashmere Clothing today for a Deep Creek Coffee & Cocoa Crawl! ☕???? Sip, chat, and enjoy Espresso Alley’s delicious treats in the Cashmere Clothing Co. parking lot. Then, indulge in an exclusive shopping experience at their DCL ladies’ boutique. Don’t miss the perfect blend of caffeine, conversation, and couture!

Explore Tree Talk Tuesday with Ranger Noah and student intern Maddy! Walk 2 miles, and learn about 16 labeled trees in the park. It’s more than a stroll; it’s a nature chat.

‘Tis the season holiday night hike and bike! Join me tonight today for a group hike at 6:30 PM and/or a bike ride at 8:00 PM at Garrett State Forest! We invite everyone to come out and enjoy our wonderful winter wonderland.

Here are cold weather riding tips if you’re thinking about joining us for a ride. And, there is absolutely no pressure! If you just want to come out for a hike, we’re gathering a group just to get outside. Coming from a few friends who have tried fat biking and winter activities, it’s SNOW FUN!

We received just over 6″ of snow by my measurements and they’re calling for another inch or two before it tapers off this morning.

Monday, December 18, 2023: The weather today will be rain in the morning. Sleet and snow showers. Snow and sleet accumulation is around an inch. Windy, with highs in the upper 30s. West winds of around 20 to 30 mph, with gusts up to 45 mph. The chance of precipitation is near 100%.

At the time of posting this morning, the snow is just beginning to stick to the ground. The latest projections from this morning put the area at an expected snowfall of 9” with a worst case scenario of 14”.

INCLEMENT WEATHER UPDATE: Garrett County Public Schools will dismiss (3) hours early today. Central Office Facilities will close at 3:00 PM. All after-school and evening activities are canceled.

GCPS elementary schools competed in regional bocce tournaments on December 13, 2023. Northern schools played at NGHS and southern schools at SGHS. Friendsville and Route 40 were northern co-champions, and Crellin was the southern champion. All advance to the county-wide tournament at C.A.R.C. at Garrett College on December 20, 2023, at 9:00 AM. This inaugural event highlights GCPS’s leadership in statewide elementary unity programs.

At the monthly Board meeting last Tuesday, Career Coaches Mary Keller (Southern Area) and Jon Hinebaugh (Northern Area) presented an update on the Career Counseling Program, focusing on Blueprint for Maryland’s Future requirements.

We have a new listing in our Online Marketplace: a Craftsman 6-inch Jointer/Planer in excellent condition, rarely used, and it comes with a mobile base for $325. Check it out under the Tools category.

Get ready for a bustling week – make sure to mark your calendars now! Learning Beyond the Classroom is happening this week! Please note that due to the commencement of Winter Break, there is no scheduled Friday bus stop.

Friday December 15, Saturday December 16, and Sunday December 11, 2023: The weather today will be sunny, with highs in the mid-40s and a low of 30. West winds of around 5 to 10 mph with gusts up to 25 mph. Saturday will be partly sunny, with highs in the upper 40s and a low of 35. Southeast winds of around 5 to 10 mph, with gusts up to 20 mph. Sunday will be rainy, with highs in the mid-40s and a low of 34. The chance of rain is 90%.

As of December 14, Maryland Department of Natural Resources crews stocked 1,800 trout.

The 2023-24 Ski Season kicks off today at Maryland’s sole ski resort, offering skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. Despite mild weather and some precipitation, the Snowmaking Team’s readiness and 11.5″ of natural snow so far have formed a robust base, sparking enthusiasm among our staff, community, and patrons.

The Deep Creek Winter Sports Team is accepting members who are born on or before December 31, 2016. Be sure to review the registration instructions prior to signing up.

Did you know the Western Maryland Classic @WMCHoops is taking place at Garrett College from December 14-16, 2023? Stop by the tournament… there is some real talent in town!

Garrett County Health Department hosts an American Red Cross blood drive today from 11:30 AM to 5:00 PM at 1025 Memorial Drive, Oakland.

Celebrate with Deep Creek Pottery’s Ribbon Cutting Celebration today, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Enjoy food, drinks, and great company! Also, craft your clay mug! Use clay slabs to build and texture your mug, choose your glaze color, and Deep Creek Pottery will take care of the rest!

Garrett County law enforcement, the Department of Social Services, and AmeriCorps volunteers team up for the annual Police Providing Presents event this Saturday. Kids can shop with officers, enjoy a luncheon, play games, and get presents wrapped.

It’s Happy Wispmas at Wisp Resort! Experience daily magical adventures for the whole family, including Hot Cocoa Bars, Elves Workshops, Holiday Contests, and more!

Don’t miss the final 2023 market by Shabby Patina! Check out the “Deck the Halls” Market to grab last-minute decor and Christmas gifts. Enjoy discounts, door prizes, and refreshments!

Drop by the Mountain Fresh Farmers Winter Market this Saturday, 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, at the Mountain Fresh Pavilion.

As part of A Great Small Town Christmas with the Town of Oakland, you can enjoy free family-friendly activities in downtown Oakland. Join the Cocoa Crawl on Saturday from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, where you can sample treats while shopping for the holidays.

There will be a Children’s Christmas Activity at Oakland B&O Museum on Saturday, from 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM in the Oakland A&E District. For ages 4-9, this free event (donations appreciated) includes photos with Santa, a craft, cookies, and limited space. Reservations are required for this event.

Don’t forget the Garrett Choral Society’s Christmas concert, “Repeat the Sounding Joy,” on Sunday at 3:00 PM in the Offutt Theatre at Garrett College’s Performing Arts Center. Enjoy favorite carols and original compositions in the first half, followed by Vivaldi’s Gloria in the second half, accompanied by a string ensemble and piano.

This weekend promises excitement and entertainment! Take a look at our schedule featuring various entertainment options and state park activities.

Thursday, December 14, 2023: The weather today will be sunny, with highs in the upper 30s and a low of 29. West winds of around 10 to 15 mph.

The recent Garrett Regional Medical Center Foundation Gala, themed “Masquerade on the Mountain” raised a record-breaking $90,000. The funds will support the Foundation’s campaign to enhance behavioral health services in Garrett County and the surrounding region.

Join Deep Creek Watershed Foundation’s Virtual Brunch and Learn today at 10:00 AM with Bruce Michael, Deep Creek Lake & Watershed Coordinator. Get a brief update on the Arrowhead Cove Sediment Removal Project, covering project details and visuals.

Garrett County Public Schools recently received updated report card data and star ratings for the 2023-24 school year from the Maryland State Department of Education. This year’s results, following standard testing, have set a new baseline for Maryland Public Schools, resulting in slight changes in star ratings for GCPS and across the state.

Garrett County residents are invited to recycle Christmas trees at the landfill on 3118 Oakland Sang Run Road, Oakland, Maryland, from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday to Friday, in January and February. Note this is not for artificial trees.

Exciting news! Wisp Resort kicks off the 2023-24 winter season on December 15! Enjoy seven days of skiing and snowboarding from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, with seven awesome trails and a terrain park. Snow Tubing opens Friday from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with extended weekend hours.

Everyone is invited to join in the festive fun at the Accident Library’s annual Holiday Open House today at 12:30pm. There will be activities, crafts, door prize drawings, and delightful refreshments. It’s the ‘most wonderful time of the year,’ so come and celebrate the holiday spirit at the Ruth Enlow Library!

Discover the magic of reading with furry friends at HART for Animals’ Reading Buddies every Thursday from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM at Enzo’s Library in our lobby. Snuggle up with cozy cushions, choose from our new books, and enjoy storytime with our adorable dogs and cats. Plus, you can take the books home for more reading adventures! Join us for a paw-some experience!

Tonight, Garrett Mentors marks 15 incredible years at Dutch’s at Silver Tree! Join the festivities for a Holiday Business After Hours, a celebration of mentors and gratitude to the amazing business community.

Get ready for a brainy showdown! Join Mountain State Brewing DCL every Thursday at 6:30 PM for TEAM TRIVIA. Grab some cold brews, gather your friends, and let the battle of wits begin! It’s trivia night – where fun and knowledge collide!