All Earth Eco Tours, LLC Introduces Restorative Sound Bath Experiences to Self-Care Programs
Posted 11/19/24
Deep Creek Lake, Garrett County — All Earth Eco Tours, LLC is thrilled to announce the latest addition to its self-care offerings—a rejuvenating 45-minute Sound Bath session. Led by experienced Reiki Master Katrina Knotts, this new experience promises to provide guests with deep relaxation and inner peace through the healing power of sound.
Katrina Knotts, who has been a Reiki Master for seven years, utilizes crystal singing bowls in her sound baths to help participants release stagnant energy from their auric field. The sound bath is designed to relax the body, calm the mind, and ignite inner awareness—offering an opportunity for profound personal reflection and relaxation.
During the sound bath, participants are encouraged to lie comfortably on their backs, remaining mindful and present with the sounds and sensations they experience. This practice helps listeners to maintain awareness and gain more from the session. While some might initially find it challenging to stay present, with practice, this becomes easier and more natural.
The experiences during a sound bath can be diverse. Participants may feel physical sensations or emotional shifts, see colors, shapes, or even images akin to a waking dream. Sound baths have the potential to activate the higher mind, allowing for creative insights and problem-solving beyond the normal state of consciousness. Generally, participants achieve a deep state of relaxation, leaving them feeling brighter and more at peace.
All Earth Eco Tours, LLC is dedicated to offering unique and enriching experiences for individuals seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The sound bath session is a perfect addition for those looking to connect with nature and themselves in a meaningful way.
For more information about the sound bath experience or to book a session, please contact Carol at 301-446-4083. Details can also be found on our website: allearthtours.com
All Earth Eco Tours, LLC specializes in outdoor recreation that offers a respite for busy individuals seeking relaxation and nature therapy. With a focus on providing stress-free and enjoyable experiences, All Earth Eco Tours, LLC is committed to enriching the lives of its guests by inviting them to breathe, relax, and connect with nature.
GRMC Joins Nationwide Observance of National Rural Health Day on November 21
Posted 11/18/24
Oakland, Md. – Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) is proud to join communities across America in celebration of National Rural Health Day on November 21, 2024. The National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH) and rural-focused organizations throughout the United States set aside the third Thursday of November to recognize National Rural Health Day.
This annual event is an opportunity to celebrate the “Power of Rural” and honor the individuals and organizations dedicated to addressing the unique healthcare needs of nearly 61 million people living in rural America.
GRMC is proud to recognize the incredible work of our team members and volunteers in our community on National Rural Health Day and throughout the year.
Garrett Lakes Arts Festival Rebranding as Stage West Arts Collective
Posted 11/14/24
At the annual membership meeting on Tuesday, Garrett Lakes Arts Festival (GLAF) introduced a comprehensive rebranding initiative, which includes a new name, logo, mission, and values. This rebranding is the result of a thorough, six-month strategic planning process, made possible through the generous support of the Maryland State Arts Council. As part of this transition, GLAF appointed Patricia Hilton, a seasoned strategic planning specialist, to guide the organization through this exciting new chapter of a fresh new day.
While the core mission and values remain steadfast, the updated name more accurately reflects the organization’s expanded focus and the diversity of its work. Originally founded in 1986 with the vision of bringing a music festival to Garrett County, GLAF has grown significantly over the years. Today, the organization offers a year-round series of performing arts events, complemented by educational programs, that engage a wide variety of audiences throughout the region.
This rebranding underscores GLAF’s ongoing commitment to evolve with the community, ensuring it continues to deliver exceptional cultural experiences for all.
The Board of Directors engaged CurlyRed, a well-established marketing and design agency based in Oakland, Maryland, to lead Phase 1 and Phase 2 of this critical rebranding project. CurlyRed, renowned for their expertise in crafting compelling visual identities, worked closely with the Board to develop a fresh and modern approach that reflects the organization’s evolving mission and values. After an in-depth creative process, this collaboration resulted in the creation of a new name, followed by a carefully designed logo, both of which more accurately represent the organization’s current identity and future direction.
Introducing, Stage WEST Arts Collective. Amy Bortz, Chair of the Board of Directors, explained some of the theory of how the organization derived on that name and the meaning behind it. She stated “Our name Garrett Lakes Arts Festival was quite significant over the years, but today it no longer accurately describes who we are and what we do. We often get people asking where are the lakes, how many lakes are there and most often, when is the festival?”
Clearly over the years, GLAF was not a festival so it was confusing to artists and the community alike. Amy noted that the new logo incorporates the new vision, with elements speaking to the diversity of what the organization brings, with lots of different fonts and colors though the colors remain the same as the original logo to tie it all together. The theme for the 2025 season will be Worlds Colliding: Blending Traditions, which envelopes the essence of Garrett Lakes Arts Festival morphing into Stage WEST Arts Collective. This new rebrand will highlight what the organization is all about while bringing a fresh and modern flair to the rooted, cultural non-profit.
Phase 3 of the strategic plan focuses on a comprehensive website redesign, aimed at enhancing user experience and aligning with our refreshed brand identity. This phase also includes reentering the market with a new, cohesive identity that reflects our organization’s evolving mission, values, and commitment to the community. The updated website and rebranding efforts will serve as a cornerstone for engaging new audiences, improving accessibility, and reinforcing our presence in the cultural landscape.
We hope you are excited about our new direction and look, and that you will join us in the 2025.
As always, thank you for your support!
Season tickets are now on sale at: https://app.arts-people.com/index.php?subscription=glaf
First United Promotes Laura Helmich to Director of Specialized Banking
Posted 11/14/24
Jason VanSickle, Managing Director of Financial Solutions, of First United Bank & Trust is pleased to announce that Laura Helmich has been appointed as Director of Specialized Banking.
With over 25 years of banking experience, Laura has built a reputation for her unwavering commitment to providing an exceptional and positive customer experience. In her most recent role as Director of Consumer Services she was responsible for managing the Customer Service Center to cater to the financial needs of customers as an extension of the Bank’s retail banking division.
“Laura’s passion, expertise, and understanding of our bank made her the perfect person to fill the role of Director of Specialized Banking. Her dynamic, service-oriented approach will foster our customers’ experience and help to educate our associates and customers about the innovative financial services and solutions we offer at First United.” stated VanSickle.
Laura is a certified financial educator through the National Association of Certified Credit Counselors. She is also a member of the WV Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators; Pennsylvania Association of Student Aid Administrators; and DE, DC, MD Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators.
Laura remains active in the community and helps to implement a variety of First United’s financial education programs. She has been awarded the WV Association of Student Financial Aid Administration President’s Award, the New York State Financial Aid Administrators Association Citation of Appreciation and the State University of New York Financial Aid Professionals, Service Award. She also serves as a Speaker Bureau Volunteer for the Maryland Business Roundtable for Education and is active with the National MS Society and Relay for Life.
First United Corporation operates one full-service commercial bank, First United Bank & Trust. The Bank has a network of community offices in Garrett, Allegany, Washington, and Frederick Counties in Maryland, as well as Mineral, Berkeley, and Monongalia Counties in West Virginia. First United’s website can be located at MyBank.com. As of 9/30/2024, the corporation posted assets of $1.9 billion.
GRMC’s Lori Davis named 2024 Maryland Activity Coordinators Society Administrator of the Year
Posted 11/11/24
Oakland Md. – GRMC’s Lori Davis RN LNHA, Nursing Manager for Subacute, was recently named the 2024 Maryland Activity Coordinators Society (MACS) Administrator of the Year. he Maryland Activity Coordinators Society was founded in 1975 as a professional organization to unite Activity Professionals in geriatric settings.
This award is given to an administrator who has consistently given significant support to the advancement of therapeutic activities for the residents of their facility and their role in local, state, and national activity associations.
Crellin Elementary Featured in News Story
Posted 11/8/24
With great pride, we announce Crellin Elementary School (CES) has received recent recognition from Project Baltimore and WBFF Fox 45. This recognition highlights its extraordinary achievements as the only Title I school in Maryland to receive a prestigious 5-star rating from the Maryland State Department of Education. This remarkable accomplishment underscores the school’s commitment to excellence in education, innovation, and community collaboration.
The 5-star rating is awarded based on a thorough evaluation of various performance metrics, including student academic achievement, school environment, attendance, and the ability to meet the needs of all students. CES’s success is a testament to the hard work of its dedicated teachers, staff, students, and supportive community, which fosters an enriching learning environment.
The feature by Project Baltimore and WBFF Fox 45 provides an in-depth look at the strategies that have contributed to CES’s achievements. To view the whole story and learn more about the initiatives that have set CES apart, please visit https://foxbaltimore.com/.../one-of-one-how-marylands....
Crellin Elementary School remains committed to continuous improvement and aims to serve as a model for other schools facing similar challenges. With the unwavering support of its community and a focus on student-centered learning, CES is determined to maintain its high standards and continue to inspire future generations.
Reflection House Leadership Roles Evolve
Posted 11/5/24
November 5, 2024 – Reflection House, a dedicated community resource providing supportive recovery care for women in mountain Maryland, announces several significant leadership transitions since the facility has opened in September 2024.
Jaimie Bell has stepped back as President of the Board for Reflection House and has transitioned to an employee, on a part-time basis, as the Program Coordinator. Over the next six months, Bell will be working with Reflection House staff to outline the responsibilities and best practices for the facility leader.
A cornerstone of Reflection House’s approach is 24/7 peer support specialist coverage. This around-the-clock support underscores our commitment to providing continuous, compassionate guidance from individuals who understand the recovery journey firsthand. Currently, Angelia Thomas, Susan Cook, Andie Wilt, Tina Bell and Amber Stalnaker are staff members.
To ensure exceptional resident care, Angelia Thomas has been appointed House Manager. In this capacity, she will be responsible for the house operations, program implementation, staff and resident support and crisis interventions. In the months ahead, Reflection House will expand Thomas’ role to encompass Program Coordinator responsibilities, further improving the quality and success of the programs offered.
Suzette Merrick has been appointed Interim President of Reflection House. In this role, she will lead the organization with the vision of ensuring a smooth transition and fostering a collaborative, mission-focused culture. Suzette’s leadership will be instrumental as the board and staff work through the start-up phase of the home.
Reflecting on these changes, Suzette stated, “Our recent leadership developments and role expansions demonstrate our unwavering commitment to helping women in recovery not only regain stability but also thrive in a supportive environment. We look forward to the continued growth of Reflection House and the ripple effect of the impact started by our dedicated team.”
To be considered for the Reflection House 12-month, Level 2 residential recovery program, the board invites those interested to apply online or call the number listed below. This step is crucial for securing a spot in our program, as spaces are limited. Sign up by visiting the Reflection House website at https://reflectionhousegc.org/get-help/ or by visiting the intake form directly: https://bit.ly/3MdN4Ee.
Applicants will be contacted to complete the intake process that involves an in-depth needs assessment that helps tailor the services to support each individual recovery journey.
Please note that participation in the program requires a financial commitment. While Reflection House is a nonprofit organization dedicated to making recovery accessible, there are fees associated with the residential services. These fees cover housing, counseling, life skills training, and the various support services. The staff will discuss the payment options during the intake process to ensure transparency and help you plan accordingly.
Located at 40 Dennett Rd., Oakland, MD, Reflection House is the first women’s recovery housing facility in Garrett County, Maryland. Reflection House is a Maryland Certified Recovery Residence, dedicated to providing a safe and structured environment for women battling substance use disorder. Their program is much more than a place to stay; it is a holistic approach to recovery that encompasses various aspects of personal development and community support.
Please call 240-321-2660 or email hello@reflectionhousegc.org for more information.
Garrett Transit Service to Implement Major Service Reduction Effective January 1, 2025
Posted 11/4/24
OAKLAND, Md. – Garrett Transit Service (GTS), a department of Garrett County Community Action Committee Inc. (GCCAC), announced today that it will implement a “major service reduction” in its transportation operations effective January 1, 2025. As part of this change, GTS will restrict its services to in-county transportation only, a measure designed to enhance service quality for Garrett County residents amid recent funding cuts and fiscal challenges.
The decision, approved in consultation with the Maryland Transit Administration, reflects GTS’s long-term strategy to streamline operations and focus resources on in-county trips, efficiently meeting the needs of Garrett County residents. GTS provides transportation services across Garrett County, ensuring affordable and accessible transit options for local communities.
Public Comment Period and Hearing Request
To facilitate community engagement, GCCAC invites residents, transit operators, and interested stakeholders to submit written comments on the proposed reduction by December 16, 2024. Written comments should be directed to:
Regina Gearhart
Vice President of Operations
Garrett Transit Service
225 Francis Sanders Drive
Oakland, MD 21550
GTS is also offering a public hearing upon request. Individuals or organizations wishing to request a hearing must submit a written request by 4:30 p.m. on December 9, 2024. If a hearing is requested, it will be held on December 16, 2024, at 9 a.m. at the GTS office at 225 Francis Sanders Drive, Oakland, Md.
About Garrett Transit Service
Garrett Transit Service, a vital community resource under Garrett County Community Action Committee Inc., serves Garrett County residents with public transportation that prioritizes accessibility and affordability. GTS operates multiple routes throughout Garrett County, providing connections to essential services, employment, and other resources. As a department of GCCAC, GTS is dedicated to advancing community well-being by offering reliable transit options that help residents maintain independence, access critical resources, and participate in local economic opportunities.
Details on Service Reduction Implementation
The policy shift to in-county-only service reflects GTS’s response to funding reductions and fiscal constraints while addressing local demand for transit services. Staff members at GTS have been informed of the change and are prepared to support customers through the transition. Residents can still request out-of-county rides through December 31, 2024, with scheduling based on availability. Starting January 1, 2025, GTS will discontinue all out-of-county transport services, maintaining in-county routes to serve the core needs of Garrett County.
For further information or to access the full public notice, residents may contact Garrett Transit Service at (301) 533-9010 or by email at ContactUS@garrettcac.org.
First United Bank & Trust Launches Finture – Steps to Your Financial Future
Posted 11/4/24
First United Bank & Trust is proud to announce the official launch of Finture – Steps to Your Financial Future, its enhanced financial education program, aiming to revolutionize financial literacy and support for local communities.
Finture, your “financial future,” is First United's innovative approach to financial education. It offers both online and in-person learning options, catering to different learning styles and going beyond a typical webpage.
First United partners with Banzai combining their online financial services resources with the Bank’s commitment to offer comprehensive financial education. The Finture Financial Education Center provides tools for all ages and stages, from school lessons to retirement planning, to creating a budget or running a business, accessible anytime and anywhere.
Finture uses a personalized approach to financial education – now and for the future. First United’s experts are available to help with budgeting, emergency planning, investing, and building generational wealth. The Finture team provides in-branch seminars, classroom and in-person presentations for non-profits, community groups, and local businesses.
“When people have the tools and resources to create financial stability, the entire community benefits. Financial education is a critical investment in the economic growth of our communities and allows families and businesses to thrive and succeed. We’re very proud of Finture and this heightened approach to financial education,” commented Carissa L. Rodeheaver, CEO and President of First United Bank & Trust.
Finture, through its Steps to Your Financial Future, offers financial resources when needed at every step of life’s journey. Learn online, in-person at a community office or in the classroom, through the Finture Financial Education Center, or a combination. For more information or to schedule a presentation today, please visit MyBank.com\finture or call 1-888-692-2654.
First United Corporation operates one full-service commercial bank, First United Bank & Trust. The Bank has a network of community offices in Garrett, Allegany, Washington and Frederick counties in Maryland, as well as Mineral, Berkeley and Monongalia counties in West Virginia. First United’s website is MyBank.com. As of June 30, 2024, the corporation posted assets of $1.9 billion.
Navigating the New Normal: How Digital Trends Define Business Success
Posted 11/4/24
Technological advancements are reshaping the business world, making digital innovation essential for survival and growth. Digital transformation is rapidly redefining operational standards, creating new avenues for efficiency and connectivity. Cutting-edge technologies once deemed futuristic are now integral, pushing industries to evolve faster than ever. These innovations are not merely tools; they’re powerful catalysts driving businesses to reimagine their potential and navigate the future with agility.
AI and Cloud Power Unleashing Business Intelligence
Harnessing the power of artificial intelligence and machine learning through cloud platforms is revolutionizing how businesses extract and utilize data. By leveraging scalable and robust computational resources, you can perform real-time data analysis, which is crucial for making informed decisions swiftly. This capability is particularly beneficial during peak events like major sales, where quick decision-making can significantly enhance customer experiences and operational efficiency.
OCR Technology Streamlining Document Management
OCR technology streamlines processes by transforming printed documents into editable and searchable digital files, significantly enhancing workflow efficiency. This conversion makes document management more effective, as information becomes easier to store, retrieve, and share. Businesses can explore this to reduce the time spent on manual data entry, reducing errors and improving productivity. As a result, OCR contributes to smoother operations, allowing teams to focus on higher-value tasks.
IoT Redefining the Future
The Internet of Things (IoT) is driving a new wave of precision and efficiency across industries, allowing for highly informed decision-making through advanced sensors and data analytics. This technology is transforming how resources are managed, as real-time monitoring enables better resource allocation and productivity. As IoT adoption expands, its potential to create sustainable systems is becoming evident, encouraging long-term resilience and responsible practices. With its rapid growth and widespread integration, IoT is set to play a crucial role in meeting future demands efficiently and sustainably.
Safeguarding Data with Innovation
Incorporating blockchain technology into your operations can significantly enhance the security of sensitive data transactions. Blockchain’s decentralized architecture disperses data across numerous nodes, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access. Each transaction is meticulously encrypted, creating interlinked records resistant to tampering. Additionally, smart contracts autonomously enforce agreement terms, reducing human error and breaches. As more organizations recognize these benefits, blockchain becomes a pivotal strategy in safeguarding business data.
Building Trust in Financial Transactions
Blockchain is fundamentally transforming peer-to-peer transactions by eliminating the need for central authorities, which traditionally oversee these exchanges. This innovation reduces transaction costs and accelerates processing times, making financial services more accessible globally. By leveraging cryptographic techniques, blockchain ensures secure and trustworthy transactions, empowering users with greater control over their financial interactions. As businesses increasingly adopt blockchain, it reshapes the financial landscape to be more secure, efficient, and inclusive.
Augmented Reality Breathing New Life into Education
Augmented Reality (AR) is reshaping education by introducing interactive and captivating learning experiences. This technology enhances education by providing immersive content that adapts to various learning styles. By blending digital and physical worlds, AR creates engaging environments that encourage active participation and deeper understanding. AR’s ability to present complex concepts through vivid simulations makes learning more accessible and inclusive, offering new potential for educators and students alike.
5G and Edge Computing Empowering Rapid Data Processing
The expansion of 5G technology is driving the growth of edge computing, reducing reliance on traditional data centers. By bringing computational power closer to the data source, 5G enables lower latency and faster processing speeds, crucial for applications like autonomous vehicles and remote healthcare. This shift addresses the projected increase in enterprise-generated data, enhancing connectivity and management strategies. Ultimately, this convergence boosts operational efficiency and fosters innovative applications transforming various industries.
As we stand at the threshold of this digitally transformed future, it’s clear that the true power of these technologies lies in their potential to mold a more interconnected, efficient, and resilient world. Businesses embracing these trends are not just surviving but thriving, innovating at the speed of thought, and rewriting narratives of success. The journey toward digital transformation is ongoing, and those who dare to pioneer it will unearth new realms of opportunity that redefine the contours of industry and commerce.
‘Survivorship Begins with Diagnosis’ event to be held at GRMC on November 21
Posted 11/4/24
Oakland, Md. – Garrett Regional Medical Center will be hosting a cancer survivorship event, ‘Survivorship Begins with Diagnosis’, on Thursday, November 21, 2024. Designed to honor and celebrate cancer survivors, the event will take place from 2-3:30 p.m. in the hospital’s main lobby.
The public is welcome and invited to attend. Those in attendance will hear from survivors, learn more about support groups and resources available at the hospital and within the community, and tour GRMC’s Cancer Center and meet the staff.
The Cancer Center opened at GRMC in 2015, when the local hospital became clinically affiliated with the WVU Medicine Health System. Prior to that, people receiving a cancer diagnosis were forced to travel for care, often an hour’s drive. The burden of travel on families as well as patients created a barrier to care that forced some patients to curtail their treatment, or even forgo treatment altogether.
The opening of the WVU Medicine James & Shirley Bailey Cancer Center at GRMC changed the face of health care in the Garrett County community. In just three short years after its initial opening, the Cancer Center underwent an expansion, demonstrating the level of need for patients in this area. The expansion paved the way for enhanced space for clinical procedures, state of the art pharmacy facilities, and space for wrap-around services that allowed GRMC’s Cancer Care Nurse Navigator Program to grow and continue to meet the needs of patients served.
The Cancer Center is led by board certified medical oncologist and hematologist Kevin Shannon MD. In 2025, the Cancer Center will be celebrating their 10th anniversary in providing care to patients in the Garrett County community and surrounding region.
Reminder: Please Dispose of Leaves Properly
Posted 11/4/24
October 30, 2024, Oakland, MD – As autumn brings an abundance of leaves, Garrett County Government is reminding residents that the County does not provide leaf cleanup services.
It is the responsibility of property owners to dispose of their leaves properly. Blowing or mowing leaves into ditches can lead to serious issues, including blocked drainage and road damage.
When leaves accumulate in ditches, they prevent proper water flow, causing ditches to overflow and increasing the risk of roadway flooding and slippery driving conditions. Standing water also erodes pavement, leading to potholes and costly repairs.
Residents and homeowners are encouraged to keep ditches clear by starting compost piles and/or bagging leaves for drop-off at the Garrett County Landfill.