Allegany College of Maryland held a ribbon cutting and formal dedication of its new UPMC Western Maryland Nursing Simulation Laboratory, located in the newly renovated Technology Building on the Cumberland campus. The lab, created from a generous gift from the Western Maryland Health System Foundation, supports ACM’s popular Nursing and Allied Health Education program.  “UPMC Western Maryland has long valued the role of Allegany College of Maryland in this community, including the preparation that the College provides to nurses and allied health professionals,” said Michele R. Martz, president of UPMC Western Maryland. “We have a strong history of collaborative projects with…

Governor Larry Hogan today announced more than $13 million in federal and state highway safety grants as part of a statewide focus to prevent motor vehicle crashes and eliminate roadway fatalities. The state funds were disbursed at the start of the fiscal year, and the federal funds will be distributed October 1 by the Maryland Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Administration’s (MDOT MVA) Highway Safety Office. In all, more than 90 organizations, agencies, and programs will receive funds. “Since the beginning of our administration, we have worked to prioritize safety on our highways through innovative projects and partnerships,” said Governor…

On September 11th, 2022 the Cumberland Police were called to a residence on the 900 block of Glenwood St for a report of a male subject banging on the door.  Officers contacted the resident along with the male subject, David Aaron Twigg, age 37, of Cumberland, MD.  The resident did not want Twigg there and he was advised to cease banging on the door.  The Police were called two more times for similar issues.  A third party also contacted the police who was woken up by Twigg loudly banging on the door of the residence.  He was placed under arrest…

On September 11th, 2022 the Cumberland Police were called to the 200 block of Spring St for an assault.  Upon arrival Officers contacted a male victim, along with a female witness.  After interviewing the victim and witness it was learned that Aaron Devone Manning, age 46 of Cumberland, MD had come to the area and a disturbance began.  Manning tried to open the door of a vehicle, breaking the handle.  Manning then used a shovel to assault the male victim, who was seated in the passenger seat of the vehicle.  He then left the scene, returning a few minutes later. …

Sixth District Congressman David Trone believes although bridge and road repairs are vital for the Western Maryland region- perhaps the most important component of the trillion dollar infrastructure bill approved last year centers on internet access. During  his visit to Allegany County last week, Trone told local officials that $65 billion contained in the legislative package is specifically targeted to improve broadband internet access in rural areas and make broadband more affordable. He says that will provide a tremendous shot in the arm for the region…

The need for Foster Care parents is a growing one in the city of Cumberland- however there are many citizens who have worked tirelessly and have opened their homes to children over the years. One of those- Holli Fetters- was recognized with a city star award from the Mayor and City Council. Councilman Joe George, a member of the Social Services Board, said the city could use more like her…

There is now less than two weeks before bids are opened for the Baltimore Street Access Project.  The project, which will include replacing underground utilities and re-opening the street to vehicular traffic and limited parking, has been years in making, originally discussed in 2014. The hope is that it will help drive economic development opportunities in Cumberland’s historic downtown city center and beyond. Price estimates have jumped from $8 to $12 millon in the past few years- and Mayor Ray Morriss said it is difficult to project at this point given rising inflation and supply chain complications… For comparison purposes,…

Earlier this year, the city of Cumberland wound up in possession of the former Allegany High School entrance facade pieces- and despite their best efforts to give it away- there have been no takers. The concrete facade was removed from the former school on Sedgwick Street as part of the demolition process.  Comprised of nearly 80 pieces — some with ornate design work  — the facade parts were numbered for reassembly, placed on pallets and covered with plastic wrapping. In April, city officials ade a decision to store the facade pieces for six to 12 months to see if any collectors…

The Cumberland Economic Development Corporation, in partnership with the Downtown Development Commission and the Cumberland City Police Department, has announced the release of a Request for Proposal (RFP) to bid on the necessary equipment, installation, and maintenance of a security camera system in downtown Cumberland to improve public safety.  Beginning September 16th qualified contractors are invited to submit a proposal with the end goal of enhancing, expanding and modernizing security in Downtown Cumberland. CEDC executive director Matt Miller…

On 09/11/2022, at approximately 11:08 hours, a Deputy on patrol in the area of LaVale, Maryland, observed a vehicle bearing Maryland registration plates, which did not display any required validation tabs.  While conducting a traffic stop on the vehicle, in the parking lot of the Sheetz store, the operator fled from the traffic stop, and began operating recklessly through the parking lot, before traveling on to Winchester Road, and then entering on to Interstate 68, Eastbound, near the 40 mile marker.  A vehicle pursuit ensued, and the operator of the vehicle lost control while exiting Interstate 68, near the 42 mile marker, at the bottom…