The Allegany County Public School System released a statement today in reference to the passing of school board President Robert Farrell: Today, the Allegany County Public School System suffered a tremendous loss with the passing of Board President, Robert “Bob” Farrell. Throughout his many years as a board member, his leadership has been instrumental in helping guide our school system. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.

On Tuesday, December 3, 2024, the Cumberland Police Department served a criminal summons on Joshua Hoenicka.  The summons was issued as the result of a private citizen filing for charges against Hoenicka at the District Court of Allegany County.  Hoenicka signed for his copy of the summons and he was released pending trial. ARRESTED:  Joshua Reid Hoenicka             AGE:  30          Cumberland, MD CHARGES:  Theft less than $100 CRIMINAL SUMMONS SERVED On Tuesday, December 3, 2024, the Cumberland Police Department served a criminal summons on Malik Freeman.  The summons was issued as the result of an incident that occurred on November 30, 2024 at approximately 12:16…

Citing rising competition from electric technologies as well as Maryland’s own climate policy, the Office of the People’s Council is asking the Public Service Commission to reject a request for Columbia Gas to expand its costly replacement program.  The OPC says the utility has replaced almost its entire aging pipe, causing gas rates to more than triple over the past decade. New Columbia Gas proposals would delay further replacement of piping and instead add other types of investments for which they want accelerated cost recovery, meaning higher consumer rates.

Across the nation, states are facing a shortage of behavioral healthcare workers. A new report to the Maryland Medicaid Advisory Board shows that Maryland needs at almost 20,000 healthcare workers to meet current needs. Even more workers will be needed in the future to cover attrition, retirement, and an expanding number of clients. Jamie Freeny of Mental Health America says the shortage puts a further strain on those seeking help…     “Some families will have to travel one or two hours just to meet in person with a mental health professional which means there are other barriers and challenges…

On Tuesday, December 3, 2024, the Cumberland Police Department served an arrest warrant on Garry Legeer III.  The warrant was issued as the result of an incident that occurred on November 30, 2024 at approximately 3:12 PM when officers responded to the first block of Decatur Street for a destruction of property complaint.  Police contacted a witness who reported that she observed a male suspect slash the tires on a vehicle.  A suspect was developed and identified as Garry Legeer III.  After further investigation, police filed for charges against Legeer at the District Court of Allegany County.  Legeer was arrested…

National Weather Service has issued a BLIZZARD WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 9 PM THIS EVENING TO 3 PM EST THURSDAY… A potent cold front will push across the Allegheny Front late this evening into Thursday. This will bring heavy snow and blustery winds, leading to whiteout conditions at times… * WHAT…Blizzard conditions possible. Total snow accumulations between 4 and 8 inches possible, locally up to 10 inches. Winds could gust as high as 55 mph. * WHERE…In Maryland, Garrett County. In West Virginia, Western Grant and Western Pendleton Counties. * WHEN…From 9 PM this evening to 3 PM EST Thursday. * IMPACTS…Whiteout conditions are possible and may…

WIND ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 9 AM TO 6 PM EST THURSDAY… West winds 20 to 25 mph with gusts up to 50 mph expected for Portions of DC, central, north central, northeast, northern, southern, and western Maryland, central, northern, northwest, and western Virginia, and eastern and panhandle West Virginia. Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result. In areas with snow on the ground, the gusty winds may lead to some areas of blowing snow. This would lead to periods of reduced visibility. Winds this strong…

Robert H. King passed away at age 83 on November 26, 2024.  He was a well known area businessman and co-owner of the Continental Motor Inn and Restaurant which included the Clipper Lounge where he maintained his pride and joy, the 8,000 gallon salt water fish tank.  In earlier years he had worked at ABL and for Kelly Springfield Tire Company.  While at Kelly, his team won several awards including the International Operations Research, Management Science Achievement Award. Survived by five children and his one brother, Mr. King also had several granchildren and great-grandchildren. A private graveside service was held.  His full obituary can…

Robert Reuse, 81, died last week in Pittsburgh.  Reuse owned and operated Maryland Discount Beverage Center in Lavale for over 45 years.  Family and friends will be received at Durst Funeral Home, 57 Frost Avenue, Frostburg, Md., on Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024, from 10 to 11 a.m.; Funeral Service will follow at 11 a.m., with Pastor Chris Skidmore officiating.  Interment will be in Frostburg Memorial Park.