Yesterday was cold, snowy and windy and the State Police implemented their Snow Emergency Plan at 12:30 pm yesterday afternoon. Today’s weather will be snow showers, mainly before 4pm. High near 18. Wind chill values as low as -4. Breezy, with a west wind 20 to 23 mph, with gusts as high as 38 mph. Chance of precipitation is 80%. Total daytime snow accumulation of around an inch possible during the day and less than a half inch tonight.
Speaking of the weather, we are hoping Wisp gets a nice boost from this snow. It is amazing how much everything in our lake-area economic ecosystem is related. More snow = more skiers = more lodging guests = more business for our local entrepreneurs = more jobs. A simple yet powerful “formula”.
I was speaking to a well-respected local entrepreneur in the tourism industry yesterday and I was surprised to hear that the federal government shutdown may be starting to be felt a bit here at the lake. She explained that there have been some rental home cancellations in the past few days. That will then likely trickle down to restaurants and other establishments. It makes sense, but I hope it stays at a minimal level for the good of all impacted.
Deborah Carpenter, Garrett County Director of Planning and Land Management, has been awarded the Maryland Association of Counties (MACo) Recognition Award for her work in support of issues important to Maryland counties. I have had the pleasure of working with Deb on some initiatives and know she is very deserving and we are fortunate to have her as a member of Garrett County Government. Congratulations!
Speaking of Garrett County Government, the Commissioners are looking for three individuals to serve on the Garrett County Ethics Commission. The primary duty of the Ethics Commission, is to develop procedures and policies for the processing of complaints to make appropriate determinations regarding complaints filed by any person alleging violations of Garrett County Government Code of Ordinances – Chapter 34: Ethics. Here’s the press release that came out yesterday.
All that Jazz: We just heard from Lisa Nichols that the Oakland Jazzercise Center is holding a New Year Membership Sale. Join-up with any on-going membership (month-to-month, three months, six months or 12 months) and January is free! You can also choose to start-out with a one-month unlimited class pass for just $35. You choose which sale works best for you. I have a number of friends that belong and they love it.
The popular Women’s Networking Luncheon is now expanding to include a Women’s Networking Happy Hour. The first event will be held at the Black Bear Tavern on January 17th from 5:30 pm – 7:00 pm. Here’s a link to the invitation with more information.
The Chamber of Commerce is inviting all in-county Chamber member businesses to participate in their Military March discount promotion during the month of March. They do this every year, so if you are an active or retired military keep your eyes out for the specials, and we will try to share as well. If you are a local Chamber business, you can send the details of your deal to Sarah Duck at sarah@garrettchamber.com no later than Thursday, January 24th.
