Tag: deep creek

Deep Creek Lake, nestled in the heart of Maryland, has long been a focal point for recreation, tourism, and environmental stewardship. However, a recent proposal has stirred up significant debate and concern among stakeholders. Senate Bill 837, slated for a hearing in the Maryland House, seeks to lower Deep Creek Lake periodically over a four-year period during winter months. The aim? To study the impacts of reduced water levels on aquatic vegetation and sedimentation.

The bill’s sponsor, Sen. Mike McKay, emphasizes the importance of managing nuisance aquatic vegetation and excess sediment, citing them as key goals outlined in the 2016 Deep Creek Watershed Management Plan. Proponents of the bill argue that lowering the lake levels during colder months could naturally “burn out” problem vegetation without resorting to chemical treatments. They also suggest potential benefits such as improved recreational activities like swimming and easier boat access to the lake’s coves.

However, opposition to the bill is robust, particularly from stakeholders like Brookfield Renewable US, which operates the dam at Deep Creek Lake. Prusha Hasan, the manager of state policy at Brookfield, raises concerns about the potential negative impacts on their operations, including carbon-free power generation, local tax revenues, and recreational opportunities. Dustin Droege, Brookfield’s Director of Operations, further warns that the bill could disrupt downstream uses of the water with little positive impact on the lake itself.

Local voices also weigh in on the matter. Friendsville Mayor Spencer Schlosnagle highlights the importance of whitewater releases for his town’s economy, urging legislators to vote against the bill. Jess Whittemore, a resident and former councilman of Friendsville, expresses skepticism about the bill’s motivations, suggesting that it circumvents proper channels of oversight.

The debate surrounding Senate Bill 837 underscores the complex interplay between environmental conservation, economic interests, and community well-being. As Maryland lawmakers prepare to weigh the merits and drawbacks of the proposed legislation, the future of Deep Creek Lake hangs in the balance.

In conclusion, the fate of Deep Creek Lake rests on the outcome of this legislative battle. Whether the bill passes or not, one thing remains clear: finding a balance between environmental preservation and economic vitality is no easy task, but it’s one that must be tackled with careful consideration and collaboration among all stakeholders involved.

In a testament to its unwavering commitment to exceptional healthcare, Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) has once again been recognized as a Top 100 Rural & Community Hospital by The Chartis Center for Rural Health. This prestigious acknowledgment marks the sixth consecutive year that GRMC has received this esteemed award, solidifying its status as a beacon of excellence in the healthcare landscape.

The Chartis Center for Rural Health’s annual Top 100 award program distinguishes outstanding performance among rural hospitals across the nation, with selection criteria based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®. Amidst a backdrop of evolving challenges in rural healthcare, this recognition underscores GRMC’s steadfast dedication to delivering high-quality care to its community.

Out of the myriad of rural hospitals evaluated nationwide, GRMC stands out as one of only two hospitals in Maryland to clinch a spot on the Top 100 Rural & Community Hospital list this year. Mark Boucot, President and CEO of GRMC and Potomac Valley Hospital, attributes this remarkable achievement to the relentless commitment and compassion exhibited by the hospital’s staff on a daily basis.

Boucot remarked, “Being nationally recognized for the sixth consecutive year as a Top 100 Rural and Community Hospital is quite a tremendous accomplishment for GRMC. This achievement would not be possible without our compassionate and caring staff. Each day, they make a commitment to provide our patients with exceptional care while treating them like family.”

Michael Topchik, National Leader at The Chartis Center for Rural Health, emphasized the significance of the Top 100 rural hospitals in driving innovation and inspiration in delivering quality care to vulnerable populations. He expressed delight in recognizing this year’s Top 100 honorees and highlighted the inclusion of over 40 first-time recipients, signaling a promising trend in elevating rural healthcare standards.

At the core of GRMC’s success lies its unwavering dedication to excellent patient outcomes. The hospital’s track record speaks volumes, with achievements such as seven consecutive years without inpatient catheter-associated urinary tract infections and one of the lowest case-mix adjusted readmission rates in the state. Additionally, GRMC garnered the highest ranked HCAHPS scores (patient satisfaction) for 2023 among Maryland hospitals, further validating its commitment to exceptional care delivery.

As a full member of the WVU Health System, GRMC continues to expand its range of specialty services to serve the diverse needs of its 46,000-strong service area spanning parts of eight counties across Maryland, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania. From behavioral health to women’s healthcare services and beyond, GRMC remains steadfast in its mission to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care to its community.

For more information on Garrett Regional Medical Center and its commitment to excellence in healthcare, visit www.wvumedicine.org/Garrett. With each accolade and recognition, GRMC reaffirms its position as a beacon of excellence and a pillar of healthcare innovation in the rural landscape.

The journey towards inclusivity began with the formation of a special advisory committee by the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club. This committee, comprised of members from various county groups, aimed to lay the groundwork for an inclusive playground that would welcome children and adults of all abilities. Spearheaded by local student Landon Georg and his family’s fundraising efforts, the initiative gained momentum and drew in a diverse array of stakeholders, including members of the disability community, county officials, and experts in accessible design.

Community Engagement: A Key Ingredient

Central to the initiative was community engagement, facilitated through the development of an Inclusive Playground Survey. This survey, launched in January 2024, sought input from residents, renters, and visitors, with a focus on understanding usage patterns, identifying challenges, and gathering recommendations for the playground’s design. The response was overwhelming, with 524 individuals contributing their perspectives and aspirations for the project.

Insights from the Survey

The survey yielded invaluable insights that will shape the future of the inclusive playground. Among the key findings were:

• Demographics and Usage Patterns: A significant majority of respondents were full-time residents of Garrett County, demonstrating local support for the project. Moreover, nearly half of the respondents had a personal connection to disabilities, highlighting the importance of creating an inclusive space within the community.
• Challenges and Needs: Mobility, behavioral, and sensory challenges emerged as primary concerns, underscoring the importance of addressing diverse needs in the playground’s design. Participants emphasized the significance of accessibility features and sensory elements to facilitate inclusive play experiences.
• Recommendations for Accessibility: Respondents stressed the importance of physical accessibility, safety, and universal design principles. They advocated for a blend of physical, imaginative, and nature-based play elements to cater to a wide range of preferences and abilities.
• Community Support: The overwhelming willingness of respondents to contribute to fundraising efforts underscores the strong community backing for the project. This outpouring of support serves as a testament to the shared commitment to inclusivity within the Deep Creek Lake community.

Moving Forward with Purpose

Armed with the insights gleaned from the survey, the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club is poised to translate vision into reality. The next steps involve fundraising, program management, and site allocation, with a steadfast commitment to ensuring that every aspect of the playground reflects the principles of inclusivity and accessibility.

A Call to Action

As the journey towards inclusivity unfolds, the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club invites all members of the community to join hands in this transformative endeavor. Whether through participation in fundraising efforts, sharing feedback, or simply spreading awareness, every contribution makes a difference. Together, we can create a playground where every child can laugh, play, and thrive, regardless of ability.

Get Involved

For those eager to lend their support or learn more about the project, the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club encourages reaching out via email at DCLLIONS@gmail.com or by phone at 323-325-5466. Additionally, detailed information, including the executive summary and full survey report, can be found on the club’s website at https://deepcreeklions.org/park-projects/handicap-accessible-playground.

2-3 BR + loft / 2BA lake area home with a small stream on property and gorgeous views of neighboring horse farm. Very well-maintained with quality craftsmanship. Originally a 1940’s native stone & frame cottage the property was totally remodeled with addition circa 2005. Now boasting hardwood floors, modern kitchen, spacious bedrooms, HUGE main level laundry/sitting room (could easily alternate as BR), fire-pit, covered front porch, gazebo and very private feel. Rare Town Residential zoning permits a variety of uses. Very accessible location at Route 219 & Mayhew Inn Road intersection, walking distance to JG’s, legendary Deep Creek area pub. Close to recreation via three state parks plus nearby Deep Creek Lake. Sold FURNISHED!

In the heart of Garrett County, Maryland, lies the picturesque Deep Creek Lake, a destination known for its natural beauty and recreational activities. Amidst this serene landscape, the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club embarked on a remarkable journey in 2023, driven by a vision of inclusivity and community engagement.

Recognizing the need for an inclusive playground that caters to individuals of all abilities, the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club established a special advisory committee. This committee’s mission was clear: to collaborate with various county groups, gather insights, and make recommendations for the creation of an inclusive playground that would not only serve the local community but also attract visitors to the area.

At the forefront of this initiative was the determination of local student Landon Georg and his family, who spearheaded fundraising efforts to turn this vision into reality. Their dedication laid the foundation for what would become the first inclusive playground in Garrett County, situated within the Lions’ McHenry Community Park.

The advisory committee, comprising members from the disability community, community stakeholders, county officials, and experts in accessible design, worked tirelessly to ensure that the playground would meet the diverse needs of its users. Central to their efforts was the development of an Inclusive Playground Survey, designed to gather input from a wide spectrum of community members, including those with disabilities.

The response to the survey was overwhelming, with 524 community members providing valuable insights into their preferences and requirements for the inclusive playground. The survey revealed overwhelming support for specialized equipment that caters to users of varying ability levels, emphasizing the importance of features such as accessibility, safety, and sensory elements.

Among the key findings of the survey were insights into demographics and usage patterns, challenges and needs faced by individuals with disabilities, barriers to accessibility, and recommendations for structural features and specialized equipment. Importantly, the survey highlighted the strong community support for the project, with an overwhelming majority expressing willingness to contribute to fundraising efforts.

Mike O’Brien, president of the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club, expressed gratitude for the community’s engagement and emphasized the valuable insights gained from the survey. He commended the dedicated team of researchers who worked tirelessly to make this initiative a success and reiterated the Club’s commitment to realizing the inclusive playground.

As the project moves forward, the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club invites further engagement from the community. Detailed information, including the executive summary and full text of the Inclusive Playground Survey Report, is available on the Club’s website. Additionally, those interested in supporting the project or getting involved can reach out via email or phone.

In creating an inclusive playground, the Deep Creek Lake Lions Club not only enriches the lives of individuals with disabilities but also fosters a sense of belonging and community spirit. Through collaboration, compassion, and dedication, they are paving the way for a more inclusive and accessible future for all.

Maryland State Police beginning Friday will increase patrols and enforcement efforts on impaired, aggressive and distracted driving through St. Patrick’s Day weekend.

State troopers from all 23 barracks will conduct saturation patrols on roads with high DUI incidents from Friday through Sunday. Enforcement efforts are bolstered by funds from the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration’s Highway Safety Office.

The State Police Impaired Driving Reduction Effort team, a specialized unit trained to identify impaired drivers, will also work this weekend. SPIDRE is funded by a grant from the MDOT MVA Highway Safety Office and aims to reduce alcohol-related injuries and fatalities in Maryland.

The safety initiative can include partnering with allied law enforcement and other state agencies to both enforce the law and offer outreach to the community through social media or billboards.

Among the planned initiatives:

• Allegany County: The Cumberland Barrack will focus DUI enforcement efforts on corridors with high traffic-related incidents.
• Anne Arundel County: The Annapolis Barrack will work Route 50, Interstate 97 and the Annapolis City area. The Glen Burnie Barrack will patrol Route 295 and Interstate 695.
• Baltimore County: The Golden Ring Barrack will concentrate enforcement on Interstate 695.
• Caroline, Dorchester and Talbot counties: The Easton Barrack will enforce traffic violations on routes 50, 404, 331 and rural roads.
• Carroll County: The Westminster Barrack will conduct DUI enforcement on major routes including 140 and 30, as well as feeder roads.
• Cecil County: The North East Barrack will conduct DUI saturation patrols in areas with high traffic-related incidents.
• Charles County: The LaPlata Barrack will work with Maryland Transportation Authority Police to conduct DUI saturation patrols and High Visibility Enforcement on Route 301.
• Frederick County: The Frederick Barrack will direct enforcement efforts on major corridors, including Interstate 70.
• Garrett County: The McHenry Barrack will work Interstate 68. Troopers will also conduct crash reduction and DUI enforcement with Garrett County Sheriff deputies.
• Montgomery County: The Rockville Barrack will work with Montgomery County Police to conduct saturation patrols in Gaithersburg’s Rio and Crown areas.
• Prince George’s County: The Forestville Barracks will bolster patrol on routes 301 and 5 and the southern parts of the county. The College Park Barrack will work Route 1 and Interstate 495.
• Wicomico County: The Salisbury Barrack will concentrate efforts on routes 50 and 13.
• Worcester County: The Berlin Barrack will conduct DUI enforcement on routes 50 and 90 and West Ocean City.

Police urge motorists to avoid impaired, aggressive and distracted driving.

If you are attending a St. Patrick’s Day event:

• Designate a sober driver before going out. Give that person your car keys.
• Avoid drinking if you are planning to drive.
• Consider using public transportation. Call a taxi or use a ride-share service.
• Do not let friends drive if you think they are impaired.
• Call the police if you see someone who you believe is driving impaired.
• Always buckle up.
• Do not text, drive distracted or use a cellphone that is not hands-free.

If you are hosting a St. Patrick’s Day event:

• Remember that you can be held liable if someone you served alcohol to ends up in an impaired driving crash.
• Serve plenty of food and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Ensure sober drivers or alternative modes of transportation are set up in advance for guests who are planning to drink alcoholic beverages.
• Have contact information for local taxi companies readily available.
• Take away the keys from anyone who is thinking about driving impaired.

PUBLIC MEETING AGENDA
Tuesday, March 19, 2024
Agenda Session Times are Approximate

Meeting will also be Live Streamed at https://www.facebook.com/garrettcountygovernment/

The Board of County Commissioners may close a portion of this public meeting and move into Executive Session to comply with a specific constitutional, statutory, or judicial requirement that may prevent public disclosure about a particular proceeding or matter. 

*To comment on agenda items – please send to comments@garrettcounty.org

3:00        Administrative Session   

• Board Appointments: Adult Public Guardianship Review Board – Three (3) Year Terms
• Declaration of Surplus County Property

              2008 Dodge Nitro SXT
              1993 John Deere 644G Loader 
              1997 Roscoe Broom  
              2002 John Deere 6220 Tractor 
              2000 John Deere 310 SE Backhoe 
              2005 John Deere 6220 Tractor 
              2000 John Deere 310 SE Backhoe

• Backbone Housing, Inc. – Request for Fiscal Year 2025 County Property Tax Abatement
• Mr. Null will review a number of administrative and managerial matters under his authority and jurisdiction with the Board of County Commissioners 

4:00       Call to Order of Public Session, Invocation, and Pledge of Allegiance

              County Administrator – Additions/Deletions to Public Meeting Agenda

              Approval of Public, Administrative, and Executive Meeting Minutes

4:05       Recognition:  The Alley – 10^th Anniversary

4:10       Garrett County Community Action Committee, Inc. – Garrett Transit

• Maryland Annual Transportation Plan Fiscal Year 2025 Grant Application 

4:15        Public Commentary

ADJOURNMENT

Public issues or concerns that are to be presented to the Board of Garrett County Commissioners during any Public Meeting should be scheduled with Carol A. Riley–Alexander, Executive Assistant to the Board of County Commissioners/County Administrator.     

The Board of Garrett County Commissioners next scheduled Public Meeting will be Monday, April 1, 2024 at the Garrett County Courthouse beginning at 4:00 PM.

5,000 sf commercial building on 6 acres near Oakland & Deep Creek Lake.