Garrett County Airport Hosts Free Easter Event for Families
Posted 3/24/25
March 21, 2025, Accident, MD – The Garrett County Airport is opening its doors for a fun-filled, family-friendly Easter celebration on Saturday, April 12, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. This free event, presented in partnership with Taylor-Made Deep Creek Sales, welcomes guests of all ages to enjoy an afternoon of activities, crafts, and sweet treats.
Families can take part in egg coloring with TEAM 1629 Robotics, create paper airplanes from coloring sheets, and snap pictures with the Easter Bunny. Kids will also receive free candy eggs while supplies last. Adding to the excitement, HART for Animals will be on-site with adoptable puppies looking for their forever homes.
The Garrett County Airport invites the community to come out, celebrate the season, and enjoy a unique Easter event in a one-of-a-kind setting.
For more information about the event, please contact Adison Wyer, Garrett County Airport Manager, at 301-746-8599 or awyer@garrettcountymd.gov.
Open House Scheduled to Review “Pathways” Recommendations
Posted 3/24/25
March 21, 2025, Oakland, MD – Garrett County is continuing its efforts to create a more connected, walkable, and bikeable community through the Garrett County Pathways and Connections Initiative. This initiative includes two key projects: the MD 135 Pedestrian and Bicycle Pathways Concept Design and the Oakland to Herrington Manor Trail Feasibility Study.
The MD 135 pathway concept is focused on creating shared-use paths that link neighborhoods, schools, parks, and local destinations, while improving pedestrian and cyclist safety. The Oakland to Herrington Manor trail feasibility study is working toward identifying a preferred trail alignment that balances community desires with environmental, physical, and regulatory constraints.
Funded through grants from the Kim Lamphier Bikeways Network Program and the Appalachian Regional Commission, these projects aim to improve safety, mobility, and recreation options for residents and visitors. Over the past several months, the county has hosted in-person meetings, open houses, and a virtual session to gather public feedback and better understand the community’s vision for trails and pathways.
Input received so far has highlighted areas of concern along MD 135, including limited pedestrian infrastructure, unsafe crossings, and narrow sidewalks. Residents have also provided valuable ideas and preferences related to the trail connecting Oakland and Herrington Manor State Park, such as preferred trail surfaces, user types, alignment options, and environmental considerations.
Now, Garrett County invites the public to an upcoming open house to review the recommendations and continue the conversation. The event will take place at the Oakland Volunteer Fire Department on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Project consultants will be available to present proposed concepts and answer questions.
Community participation remains essential as the county prepares to move these projects into the next planning phases. Residents are encouraged to visit http://garrettcountymd.gov/pathways to explore project materials and an interactive map.
For questions or comments, please email pathways@garrettcountymd.gov.
Crellin Elementary student’s “Be the Change” Project benefits GRMC Cancer Center
Posted 3/17/25
Oakland, Md. – Crellin Elementary School student Kinleigh Hinebaugh selected the WVU Cancer Institute James & Shirley Bailey Regional Cancer Center at Garrett Regional Medical Center to be the recipient of her “Be the Change” project.
Kinleigh recently delivered her donation to team members of GRMC’s Cancer Center.
Deep Creek Colon & Rectal Surgery, PC support colorectal cancer awareness month
Posted 3/10/25
Oakland, Md. – Dress in Blue Day, established by the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, is designed to bring awareness to end colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer is the second deadliest cancer in the United States but is highly preventable with screening.
Lynda Dougherty, MD, FACS, FASCRS and her team at Deep Creek Colon & Rectal Surgery, PC, are showing their support for colorectal cancer awareness month. Deep Creek Colon and Rectal Surgery, PA provides patients with subspecialty care in colorectal surgery and proctology not previously available in western Maryland.
Dougherty's office offers in-office procedures at her practice on 880 Memorial Drive and performs colonoscopies at Garrett Regional Medical Center. To learn more or to make an appointment, contact 301-334-4340.
Wolf Den Run State Park Designated Jeep Badge of Honor Trail
Posted 3/6/25
Thanks to the efforts of the Maryland Off-Highway Vehicle Alliance (MDOHVA), the Capitol Off Road Enthusiasts (CORE4x4), and the Maryland's Jeep Club, Wolf Den Run State Park's Trail 2103 has been officially designated as a Jeep Badge of Honor Trail. This marks a significant milestone for off-road enthusiasts in Maryland.
Wolf Den Run State Park, located in Garrett County, Maryland, opened to the public in 2019. The park was established as Maryland's first official off-road centric State Park, catering to various forms of motorized and non-motorized recreation. Trail 2103, now recognized as a Badge of Honor trail, adds to the park's appeal for Jeep owners and off-road enthusiasts. This addition to the prestigious Jeep Badge of Honor program is expected to bring substantial economic benefits to the surrounding area.
The Jeep Badge of Honor program, launched in 2013, is a brand-sponsored mobile application that rewards Jeep owners for conquering challenging off-road trails. Participants can earn physical badges to display on their vehicles, showcasing their off-road achievements. The program has grown significantly, with Jeep recently expanding it to include 68 trails across the United States.
The addition of Wolf Den Run State Park's Trail 2103 to the Jeep Badge of Honor program represents a win-win situation for both off-road enthusiasts and the local community. As Jeep owners flock to conquer this newly recognized trail, the surrounding area can expect to see a significant economic boost, potentially reaching up to $1 million in annual economic activity. This development not only celebrates the spirit of off-road adventure but also contributes to the growth and prosperity of Maryland's first off-road centric State Park.
Wyer Announced as Garrett County Airport Manager
Posted 3/4/25
March 4, 2025, Oakland, MD – Garrett County Government has announced Mr. Adison Wyer as the new Garrett County Airport, 2G4, manager. A dedicated pilot with an instrument rating, Wyer brings both technical expertise and a deep-rooted passion for aviation to the role. His background in law enforcement, having previously served with the Maryland State Police, adds a layer of leadership and operational experience that will benefit the airport and its growing aviation community.
Wyer is eager to expand awareness of the airport’s offerings and create new opportunities for both recreational and business aviation in Garrett County. As a father of four children, all 12 and under, he understands the value of inspiring the next generation and hopes to foster more engagement in aviation locally.
“I have a true love for aviation and want to bring more attention and awareness to what Garrett County Airport has to offer,” Wyer said. “There’s so much potential here, and I look forward to enhancing the opportunities available to pilots, businesses, and the community.”
Located between the small towns of Accident and McHenry, Garrett County Airport (2G4) is a scenic General Aviation Airport in the mountains of Western Maryland. Originally a small grass airstrip in the 1940s, it has evolved into a modern public-use airport with a 5,000-foot runway that accommodates both recreational and business aviation.
Steve Kelley, Garrett County’s Director of Community Development, shared his excitement about Wyer stepping into the role, emphasizing the bright future ahead for the airport under his leadership.
“Adison’s passion for aviation is contagious,” said Kelley. “His vision for the Garrett County Airport is one of growth and opportunity. We’re thrilled to have him on board and excited for what’s to come.”
The airport serves as a hub for flight training, sightseeing flights over Deep Creek Lake, and essential services supporting military, law enforcement, the Department of Natural Resources, and the Civil Air Patrol. Travelers and pilots can enjoy a well-equipped terminal with a comfortable lobby, pilot’s lounge, flight planning room, and accessible amenities. The airport also features an Automated Weather Observation System, internet access, and resources for filing flight plans.
Several “T” hangars are available for monthly rental and with the option to construct up to eight box hangars for interested businesses or individuals. For more information, call Adison at 301-746-8599.
Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., the airport offers a range of services, including Jet A fuel with additives, 100 LL fuel, oil, transient aircraft tie-downs, pilot supplies, internet weather service, phone access, and rental car services. Its single runway (Runway 270/090) is 75 feet wide and equipped with Precision Approach Path Indicators (PAPIs) and Runway End Identifier Lights (REILs).
Clear Mountain Bank donates patient care packages to GRMC Cancer Center
Posted 3/3/25
Oakland, Md. – The employees of Clear Mountain Bank recently donated 45 patient care packages to the WVU Cancer Institute James & Shirley Bailey Regional Cancer Center at Garrett Regional Medical Center.
The care packages included a variety of personal, comfort, and activity items for patients receiving treatment at GRMC.
New Venue Offers Unique Experience and Fine Dining
Posted 2/26/25
Shamrock Sporting Clays and Shamrock Whiskey & Cigar Bar Now Open in Rockwood, PA
Rockwood, PA (February 24, 2025) Shamrock Sporting Clays and Shamrock Whiskey & Cigar Bar cut the ribbon on their new venues in January. “It was a goal of ours to repurpose the barn and silo onsite to incorporate outdoor adventures and host fun and unique events”, says owner Angela Svonavec, of Naples Florida. Events range from corporate and charity shoots to fine dining with wine pairings, whiskey tastings and themed events. Svonavec hired a team consisting of Kristen Pritts as Club Manager to run day-to-day operations at the clubhouse, Alex Ginter as Executive Chef, and Zac Heide as the Sporting Club Manager.
Shamrock Whiskey and Cigar Bar functions as the Clubhouse and offers sensational cuisine for lunch and dinner as well as a wide variety of catering options for the onsite events. “We focused on sourcing a wide range of GMO-free, and hormone & antibiotic free ingredients to create the menu,” says Svonavec, “Kristen and Chef Alex combine these ingredients with their talents to craft masterpieces, both in the kitchen and behind the bar.”
"Coming from a background in the restaurant industry, I had no prior experience with sporting clays, but I was immediately intrigued by Angela and her family's vision for this new venture,” says Kristen Pritts, Club Manager. “I was excited to join the team and contribute to their journey—helping achieve the goals they've set so far and those we will reach together in the future."
Chef Alex Ginter has created a unique dining experience in the rustic yet elegant clubhouse which includes a large selection of whiskeys and cigars. "Returning to my roots in the culinary world feels like a true homecoming. With this opportunity, it’s a privilege to elevate my craft, creating refined dining experiences, all while reconnecting with the passion that first ignited my love for cooking," says Ginter.
Shamrock offers three membership packages, social, sporting and corporate. Sporting clay stations are spread out along a scenic one-mile trail with 4 sizes of clays and over 30 advanced target throwers. The Sporting Clays is open seasonally May-October. There is also a 5 stand that is open year-round and offers glow-in-the dark clays as well.
“I’m thrilled to step into the role of Course Manager at Shamrock Sporting Clays. This is an exciting new opportunity for me, where I can combine my lifelong passion for the outdoors with my business background,” says Sporting Clays Manager Zac Heide. “Having worked in a competitive environment, I understand the dedication and focus required to excel in shooting sports, and I’m eager to share that enthusiasm with others. In addition to our fantastic sporting clays course and 5-stand, there are a variety of exciting opportunities to come, creating an engaging environment for both seasoned shooters and newcomers alike.”
Luxury Lodging is also available onsite at the Shamrock cabin. Nestled on a pond in a tranquil part of the property, it offers a relaxing stay immersed in nature. Offering the chance to relax by a campfire, fish, kayak, or paddleboard on the pond, or enjoy hiking in the wooded trails. Svonavec says she is thrilled with how well both the clubhouse and clay course have been received and she promises more to come. “We really appreciate all the support and love! We look forward to expanding the course and we have plans for adding new activities and adventures to the property… Stay tuned for that.”
About Shamrock Sporting Clays, Whiskey and Cigar Bar
Shamrock Sporting Clays, and Shamrock Whiskey and Cigar Bar are both located at 624 Humbert School Road in Rockwood, PA. The original Shamrock coal mines were located on the property at the turn of the century, so the Shamrock name was used to preserve that history. The silo onsite is original and was re-purposed into a gun vault. For more information on hours or events please visit www.shamrocksportingclays.com
From registration specialist to RN, GRMC’s Martin furthers her career at home
Posted 2/24/25
Oakland, Md. – Garrett County resident Caitlyn Martin first began her career at Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) as a registration specialist in 2020 while attending nursing school. As of October 2023, Martin works in the hospital’s emergency department as a registered nurse (RN).
“I wanted to serve and care for the people who live in our community,” said Martin, who decided to become a nurse during her senior year of high school. “I love the small-town feel of our community and GRMC is close to home.”
After she graduated nursing school, Martin participated in GRMC’s nurse residency program designed to provide additional support to graduate nurses with less than one year of experience as they make the transition into their role as a healthcare provider.
“The nurse residency program helped me become more confident as a new graduate nurse, said Martin. “The program is very helpful and supportive.”
Throughout the 12-month program, graduate nurses collaborate and meet other nurses who are also in the first year of their career. Graduates can shadow other departments within the hospital to experience what a shift may entail in an area other than their own.
GRMC’s program is designed to help new graduate nurses grow in their nursing career through mentorship and a private learning atmosphere. Graduates also participate in department-based orientation.
Martin credits both the supportive environment at GRMC and the nurse residency program in helping her reach her goals.
“I have so much support here at GRMC and there are many mentors all over the hospital,” she added. “Our charge nurses and nursing supervisors are very helpful, especially to the new staff.”
Martin plans to obtain her bachelor’s degree along with her certified emergency nurse (CEN) certification for registered nurses who work in emergency departments.
For those wanting to expand their career in healthcare, Martin recommends exploring all the options GRMC has to offer.
“Appreciate the potential that our hospital has and the opportunity to advance your career in healthcare at home,” stated Martin. “There are so many wonderful, knowledgeable nurses and staff who are welcoming and encourage you to be your best.”
For more information on the nurse residency program at GRMC, contact Amanda Simmons, Manager of Clinical Education and Development, at amanda.simmons@wvumedicine.org. For more information on nursing careers, contact Jackie Bittinger, Physician Provider Recruiter & Talent Advisor, jacquelyn.bittinger@wvumedicine.org.
American Hospital Association regional executive visits GRMC
Posted 2/17/25
Oakland, Md. – GRMC President and CEO Mark Boucot recently met with Matthew Wright, Regional Executive from the American Hospital Association. Wright was given a tour of the hospital and met with members of GRMC’s senior leadership team.
Mikolas Ruggiero Promoted to Assistant Information Security and Disaster Recovery Officer
Posted 2/10/25
Marissa Murphy, Information Security and Disaster Recovery Officer at First United Bank & Trust, is pleased to announce the promotion of Mikolas Ruggiero to Assistant Information Security and Disaster Recovery Officer.
Mikolas will assist in planning the corporation’s Information Security Policy, work on different cybersecurity initiatives, and help coordinate and plan the bank’s disaster recovery program. In his previous role, Mikolas served as a Customer Service Representative at the Cumberland, Md., branch.
“We are very excited to welcome Mik to the team. His experience in banking and attention to detail have already proven to be invaluable assets,” Murphy said. “We look forward to the positive impact he will have on our projects and initiatives.”
Mikolas received an associate’s degree in graphic design from Garrett College. Before joining First United as a Customer Service Representative, he worked as a Retail Wireless Consultant in Oakland, Md., where he provided troubleshooting assistance to customers with cellular and wireless internet services, as well as made recommendations on services based on customer lifestyles.
Mik lives in Cresaptown, Md., with his wife and big orange cat named Corduroy. In his spare time, he loves to play guitar and cook a lot of food, especially whipping up some classic Roman pastas. Each Sunday, Mikolas helps to lead worship music with his grandfather at their church.
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.
Garrett Regional Medical Center to launch Patient Care Tech trainee program
Posted 2/10/25
Application deadline is April 7, 2025
Oakland, Md. – Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) will be offering a new trainee extern program for patient care technicians this summer. The 8-week program will run from June 2025 through August 2025.
The patient care tech program is designed to prepare individuals for a future, full-time or part-time patient care technician at GRMC. The program will allow participants to gain clinical experience to jump start a career in healthcare through hands-on learning opportunities.
“We are really excited about our new patient care technician trainee program at GRMC,” stated Christopher Welch, GRMC’s Regional Student Coordinator. “This is the perfect opportunity for someone to gain valuable insight into the healthcare industry and earn while they learn.”
The program is open to individuals at least 16 years of age regardless of experience level, ideal for entry-level job seekers. This is a temporary 8-week hourly non-benefit position.
Welch added, “while this program only requires an 8-week commitment, this could lead to the possibility of a future full-time position in patient care or open up the door to other healthcare career options available at GRMC.”
The application deadline is April 7, 2025. For additional information or how to apply, contact Welch at christopher.welch@wvumedicine.org or 304-974-5000 ext. 123899.
Cody Kroll Appointed Director of Garrett Transit Service Amid County Support for Transportation Needs
Posted 2/6/25
OAKLAND, Md. – Garrett County Community Action Committee Inc. (GCCAC) is pleased to announce Cody Kroll as the new Director of Garrett Transit Service (GTS), effective January 2, 2025. With a strong background in transportation and leadership, including managing non-emergency medical transportation at Garrett County Lighthouse, Kroll is well-prepared to address the challenges of public transit and deliver reliable services to Garrett County residents.
“Transportation is vital to the well-being of our community, and we are thrilled to have Cody leading this critical area,” said Chris Mullett, President and CEO of GCCAC. “His leadership and innovative approach will help us improve service delivery, overcome challenges, and expand our reach to better meet the needs of our residents.”
Kroll’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for GTS, as GCCAC addresses funding challenges and works to ensure the continuity of essential transportation services in Garrett County. The Garrett County Board of Commissioners has pledged $367,000 in emergency funding to support GTS operations through the county’s fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.
“Transportation is a lifeline for our community, and I am honored to lead Garrett Transit Service during this pivotal time,” said Kroll. “With the county’s support and the dedication of our team, I look forward to strengthening operations and ensuring our services meet the needs of residents across Garrett County.”
GTS plays a vital role in connecting community members to medical appointments, employment, and essential services. It is particularly critical for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low-income families, for whom public transportation is not a convenience but a necessity.
The addition of Cody Kroll to GCCAC’s leadership team underscores the organization’s commitment to finding sustainable solutions for the community’s transportation needs. His experience in transportation management, combined with the county’s support, positions GTS to overcome current challenges and ensure that public transit remains a cornerstone of community well-being.
GTS welcomes public input and encourages residents to share feedback on transportation needs and services. Community members can contact Cody Kroll, Director of Transportation, by phone at (301) 334-9011 or by email at ckroll@garrettcac.org.
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.
About Garrett County Community Action Committee Inc.
Garrett County Community Action Committee Inc. (GCCAC) is a private, nonprofit corporation in Garrett County, Md., dedicated to improving the quality of life for people in need. The organization empowers individuals to become more self-sufficient and provides essential services in collaboration with community partners. GCCAC's initiatives span affordable housing, economic opportunities, educational programs, and family services to foster a stronger, more resilient community.
Steering Committee Serves Deep Creek Lake Watershed Management Plan
Posted 2/5/25
February 4, 2025, Oakland, MD – The Deep Creek Watershed Management Plan provides direction for protecting, enhancing, and restoring the resources of the Deep Creek watershed. A plan was developed and published in 2016 as a cooperative effort between state and county government agencies, business owners, and local citizens. This plan outlines an array of actions needed to address the concerns identified by this public-private partnership.
The Deep Creek Lake Administrative Council is represented by agencies with regulatory control in the Deep Creek Lake watershed including Garrett County Government, Maryland Department of the Environment, and Maryland Department of Natural Resources that ultimately oversee the implementation of the plan. The Administrative Council is guided by the Steering Committee and comprised of local, state, and community representatives. The council works through the steering committee to balance environmental conservation, recreation, and economic development while ensuring the long-term health of the watershed.
The Deep Creek Lake Administrative Council Steering Committee met on Friday, January 31, 2025, to review and refine the priorities for the next two years, focusing on critical watershed management efforts and the implementation of targeted conservation strategies. During the meeting, members discussed emerging environmental challenges, assessed ongoing initiatives, and coordinated actions to align with the tasks and objectives outlined in the Deep Creek Lake Watershed Management Plan.
Key topics discussed included water quality monitoring & protection, aquatic invasive species prevention, shoreline & watershed management, policy coordination, and community engagement.
Updates were provided on monitoring of water quality in the lake, sediment control, harmful algal bloom prevention, and stormwater management strategies. The committee also reviewed the latest initiatives to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species, emphasizing boater education, decontamination stations, and inter-agency cooperation.
A discussion on best practices for shoreline stabilization, buffer plantings, and sustainable land use emphasized the importance of property owner participation in lake preservation efforts. And a constant and ongoing effort is to improve transparency and public outreach including updates on lake-related policies, upcoming educational events, and resources available to property owners and recreational users.
"The health of Deep Creek Lake is directly tied to the health of its watershed, and our coordinated approach ensures that we are addressing challenges proactively," said Molly Ramsey, Watershed Coordinator for Garrett County Government. "By fostering collaboration between local, state, and community stakeholders, we can protect this vital resource for future generations while supporting responsible recreation and the economic activity that supports the Garrett County area."
The committee will continue to work on the management plan and strategies, with the next meeting scheduled for Friday, February 7, 2025 at 10:00 A.M. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and participate in lake preservation efforts by visiting https://www.garrettcountymd.gov/community-development/watershed-management/deep-creek-lake.
A survey for public input will be announced within the next 30 to 60 days.
For more information or to get involved, please contact Molly Ramsey at 301-334-1923 or email mramsey@garrettcountymd.gov.
GRMC receives Acute Stroke Ready Hospital recertification by The Joint Commission
Posted 2/3/25
Certification is offered in collaboration with the AHA/ASA
OAKLAND, Md. – Garrett Regional Medical Center has received recertification as an Acute Stroke Ready Hospital (ASRH) by The Joint Commission. The Joint Commission Advanced Certification for Acute Stroke Ready Hospitals is offered in collaboration with the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association.
Garrett Regional Medical Center underwent a successful onsite surveyor review by The Joint Commission. Organizations seeking certification are required to adopt a set of standardized performance measures and collect monthly data for each set of measures. All data is submitted quarterly to The Joint Commission for review.
“Achieving Acute Stroke Ready Hospital recertification recognizes our commitment to striving for excellence and fostering continuous improvement in patient safety and quality of care at GRMC,” stated Kendra Thayer, Vice President of Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Officer for GRMC and Potomac Valley Hospital. “This type of certification is designed to strengthen confidence among our community in receiving stroke care provided at GRMC.”
GRMC formed a comprehensive stroke committee – Robert Goralski MD, Marissa Mullenax CDI, LPN, Potomac Valley Hospital; Lance Rhodes, Manager Pharmacy, GRMC; Kathy Beck, Director of Risk Management, GRMC; Kelly Kooser, Manager Nursing Medical Surgical, GRMC, and Kim Gordon, Director of Nursing & Regulatory Coordinator, GRMC - to help lead the hospital’s acute stroke program.
“Our core stroke committee at GRMC has done an outstanding job to make recertification possible,” added Thayer. “We appreciate all our patient care staff for caring for our patients like family.”
ASRH certification is designed to strengthen community confidence in the quality and safety of care, treatment, and services in stroke patients. Organizations receiving this designation for excellence in the care also demonstrate commitment to a higher standard of clinical service.
For more information on Garrett Regional Medical Center, visit wvumedicine.org/Garrett.