The Maryland Department of Health today reported the first cold-related death in Maryland for the 2023-2024 winter weather season. The deceased individual is an adult male in the 70-80 age range. To prevent the onset of cold-related illness, including frostbite, Marylanders should avoid exposure to cold weather, both by limiting time outside and by wearing several layers of lightweight, insulated clothing. Marylanders in need of warming centers are encouraged to contact their local health department or to call 2-1-1 to get information about warming center locations. Some heating sources can cause fires, injuries, burns, or carbon monoxide poisoning if not…

The Cumberland Police Department bid an official farewell to its dedicated four-legged officers, Canines Johanna and Leon, as they officially enter retirement after years of faithful service. Retiring back on July 1, 2023, recent law changes prompted their retirement from active police duty, and both canines will now enjoy their golden years in the loving homes of their handlers. This morning, the department proudly received the retirement badges for Johanna and Leon, symbolizing the end of their distinguished careers. These badges will be formally presented to their devoted handlers in recognition of the exemplary service provided by these loyal members…

Once again, the gaming revenue generated by Maryland’s casinos saw a decrease year over year for the month of November.  Maryland’s six casinos combined to generate $157.7 million in revenue, but that is down 3.5% compared to November of 2022.  Tax contributions to the state from the revenue generated totaled $66 million also down from 2022.  Rocky Gap Casino for November generated just over $4.5 million for November, down 6.5% from the same month last year.

Senator Van Hollen’s proposed Farewell to Foam Act would prohibit the sale and distribution of “loose fill” such as packing peanuts, and non-medical disposable coolers in addition to single use food service products beginning in January 2026. In 2019, Maryland became the first state to pass a law ending the use of plastic foam food service products. A study on the impact of that Maryland law found a 65 percent decrease in foam foodware pollution on beaches and waterways in the state. Since then, ten additional states have passed similar measures banning foamware.  

The Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program or MCAP, administered by schools annually, provides information on student progress towards proficiency on standards for English, Math, and Science.  WCBC News took a deep dive into the data for Allegany County and results paint a more positive picture than most media report.  For Algebra1, county students are performing 8 points higher than the state average and up 11 points from the previous testing period. The proficiency rate shows 25.1 but Trina Simpson, Supervisor of Assessments and Accountability explains that proficiency rates are not equal to percentage of students passing in a discipline…

Maryland’s gun safety laws continue to make headlines as Attorney General Anthony Brown is now seeking a rehearing on the striking down of the state’s gun licensing laws.  Concealed-carry is also often in the cross-hairs of legislators.  Garrett County’s delegate to Annapolis, Jim Hinebaugh, talked recently about the now even-more complicated rules for concealed-carry permit owners… HInebaugh believes that those who possess permits should have a more feasible way to find out the do’s and don’ts of concealed-carry in the state…

It’s the gift-giving season and for music festival fans, a gift that just arrived is the artist lineup for the 2024 DelFest.  The lineup was released Thursday afternoon and features namesake Del McCoury, The Travelin’ McCourys, Greensky Bluegrass, Sierra Ferrell, and Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives.  Festival dates for 2024 are May 23 through 26 at the Allegany County Fairgrounds. Tickets are on sale now through delfest.com. 

The Allegany County Library system has made the decision to allow individual sites to develop programming for their patrons.  This has resulted in a variety of activities scheduled throughout the holiday season.  One of the upcoming events is likened to show-and-tell for adults.  Ashley Swinford with the library spoke to WCBC about the program happening at 2pm December 12th at the Frostburg Library…    

The Jewish holiday season of Hanukkah runs through December 15 this year.  It is an annual observance recognizing the miraculous victory of the Maccabees over a Syrian king that destroyed the second temple in Jerusalem.  Cantor Stephanie Greene of the local B’er Chayim congregation on South Centre Street talked to WCBC about the miracle of the oil for the temple menorah… Cantor Greene said that Hanukkah for the most part is a home based holiday with special foods and games enjoyed by families, in addition to nightly lighting the Menorah…

On December 7, 2023, Officers of the Cumberland Police Department executed a search warrant in the 800 block of Patterson Avenue. Throughout the investigation officers had obtained information and evidence in regards to illicit drugs being distributed from the residence. After the execution of the search warrant quantities of controlled dangerous substances were located, and several suspects were arrested and charged. At this time the investigation is still ongoing. Arrests: Multiple individuals Charges: Possession not cannabis and possession of paraphernalia.