Miller Recognized by JCI
Cumberland Economic Development Director Matt Miller has been recognized by Jaycees International as one of JCI USA’s Ten Outstanding Young Americans for 2025. The honor goes to individuals who exemplify excellence in leadership, service, and impact. Miller serves on the board of the ACM Foundation, the Western Maryland Jaycees and is instrumental in the annual Tri-State Wing Off in addition to his support for economic development.
SkyPacket Continues Area Expansion
Local provider SkyPacket is continuing to roll out improvements to their fixed wireless internet services. SkyPacket has been located in the Cumberland area since 2004, serving most Allegany and Mineral county households. CEO Todd Tanner spoke with WCBC recently, saying that internet service starts at $35 a month and the company has been expanding its reach… “We have 4g and 5g. We have CBRS. We have some great technology that’s being deployed. Our newest one, which is a lot of fun, is up on top of Dans Mountain and it has a great reach. And it just came…
Van Hollen Says Republicans Split Over A War With Iran
Both the US Senate and House of Representatives are mulling war powers resolutions preventing the country from becoming directly involved in the conflict between Iran and Israel. The US has provided weaponry and intelligence to the Israelis while President Trump – so far – has taken a diplomatic route to finding a peace. According to Maryland Senator and Democrat Chris Van Hollen, the Republican Party is split on a declaration of war… “Among Republicans, there’s a real split on the issue. You’ve got the bombs-away on Iran today group and then you’ve got those who said, you know,…
Riverside Sports Complex Still Under Repairs
The flooding in mind-May had minimal impact on most of Cumberland, but the Riverside Recreation Area in South Cumberland was hit hard. The area has been closed for weeks, forcing softball and soccer teams to find alternate venues for practice and play. Parks and Recreation Director Ryan Mackey says that progress has been slowed by continued rainfall… “We’re trying to open it back up. The issue is this rain. Like, we have grass down there that’s just up to your knees because with it being so close to the river it’s just not draining out and there’s a clay…
Lobbyist Warns of Future Fiscal Concerns
Spending cuts that were avoided at the state level this fiscal year may be unavoidable in the future, according to the lobbyist for the cities of Cumberland and Frostburg. Rich Reinhardt of Percy Public Affairs says the key will be whether state revenues continue to see a downfall. He says legislators need to look at finances closely in the coming years, choosing where to cut expenses… “We certainly are in a fiscal calamity at this point, and the only way out of it is by some of us arguing that we need more cuts to the state budget,…
Unified Flood Recovery Application Available
Allegany County Government has released a unified application for aid to affected residents of May’s flooding. The application connects residents with a variety of disaster recovery resources in one form including appliance replacement, vehicle insurance deductible reimbursement, and help with building material costs. Residents can apply online or at the Town Halls of Westernport, Barton, Lonaconing, and Midland. Application deadline is July 18th.
Sheriff’s Office Investigating Burglary on Pysell Crosscut Road
Garrett County Sheriff's Office is investigating a burglary in the area of the 1700 block of Pysell Crosscut Road. The burglary occurred between October 2024 to June 2025, where a Brave 30-ton log splitter was stolen. Anyone with information regarding the burglary and theft is asked to contact the Sheriff's Office at 301-334-1911.
School Cell Phone Policy Adopted
The Allegany County Board of Education voted to move forward with a new cell phone policy for students. The policy includes any device for personal communication that is not school-issued technology. Phones must be stored during the school day. Board member Dr. David Bohn thanked the policy committee, saying the policy has been long awaited… “Thanks to the policy committee for putting this in place – it is something that has needed put forth for a while, so I’m sure our teachers will be happy to see this going through.”
Chief Ternent Out; Lt. Bonner Acting Chief
WCBC News has learned that Cumberland Chief of Police Chuck Ternent has been relieved of his duties. Lt. Eric Bonner is acting Police chief for the City of Cumberland. This is a developing story and WCBC News will have more information forthcoming.
Bench Warrant Served
On Wednesday, June 18th, 2025, the Cumberland Police Department arrested Neroli Mae, 52, of Cumberland, MD. Mae was arrested on an active Bench Warrant issued by the Allegany County District Court on June 6th, 2025. On that date, it is alleged that Mae failed to appear in District Court for a previous theft charge. Mae was taken before a District Court Commissioner for an Initial Appearance, where she was released on a $1,000 unsecured bond.. ARRESTED - Neroli Mae, W/F 52 yo CHARGES - Bench Warrant-Failure to Appear.