Garrett Regional Medical Center welcomes addictionologist John Robyn Diez, MD
Posted 9/11/25
Dr. Diez is accepting new patients at GRMC Health & Wellness
Oakland, Md. – Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) is pleased to welcome John Robyn Diez, MD, to its medical staff as an addiction medicine specialist at the GRMC Health & Wellness, Regional Behavioral Health Center, located at 69 Wolf Acres Drive in Oakland.
Dr. Diez recently completed a fellowship in addiction medicine at The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, where he trained extensively in both inpatient and outpatient care for adults with substance use disorders.
He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree at Far Eastern University – Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation in the Philippines, after graduating cum laude with a Bachelor of Science in nursing. Dr. Diez completed his pediatrics residency at Woodhull Medical and Mental Health Center, an affiliate of New York University in Brooklyn, New York, where he served as chief resident.
Dr. Diez has received several professional honors, including the Ruth Fox Scholarship from the American Society of Addiction Medicine. He won first place in both the Residents’ Annual Oral Research Presentation at Woodhull Medical and Mental Health Center and the Academic Poster Competition at the New York Society of Addiction Medicine.
Licensed by the Maryland Board of Physicians, Dr. Diez has authored multiple peer-reviewed articles and delivered presentations on a wide range of clinical topics related to addiction medicine.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Diez to our team,” said Mark Boucot, President and CEO of GRMC and Potomac Valley Hospital (Keyser, W.Va.). “His expertise in addiction medicine will enhance the comprehensive care our Health & Wellness Regional Behavioral Health Center provides, helping patients and families in our community access the support they need for mental and behavioral health needs.”
GRMC’s Health & Wellness Regional Behavioral Health Center recently underwent a significant renovation and expansion to provide better care for patients in our community. Since opening in 2019, the demand for mental and behavioral health care and treatment has continued to climb. As part of the renovation and expansion project, the GRMC Foundation launched a fundraising campaign dedicated to improving behavioral health services in Garrett County and the surrounding region.
Health & Wellness offers a wide range of office-based, outpatient mental health and substance use disorder services to support patients and families in the community.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Diez, contact GRMC Health & Wellness at 301-533-2190.
For more information on Garrett Regional Medical Center, visit WVUMedicine.org/Garrett.
Commissioners Appoint Dr. Jane Wildesen to Elected Board of Education
Posted 9/3/25
September 2, 2025, Oakland, MD – The Board of Garrett County Commissioners appointed Dr. Jane Wildesen to the at-large seat on the Garrett County Board of Education, filling the vacancy created by Matthew Trezise’s resignation.
After reviewing letters of interest, the Commissioners selected Dr. Wildesen to serve the remainder of the term through December 2028, in accordance with the Maryland Education Code.
Dr. Wildesen has more than 35 years with Garrett County Public Schools, most recently retiring as Director of Human Resources and Employee Relations. Her experience spans PreK–12 instruction, school and district leadership, and state policy work. She holds an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Frostburg State University, a M.A. in Special Education from West Virginia University, and a B.S. in Elementary Education from Frostburg State University.
Garrett Regional Medical Center Welcomes Largest Cohort to WVU Medicine Aspiring Nurse Program
Posted 9/2/25
Innovative partnership with Allegany College of Maryland expands nursing workforce pipeline in Garrett County
Oakland, Md - Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC), in collaboration with the Allegany College of Maryland (ACM) School of Nursing, recently held an induction ceremony for the largest cohort of students to date entering the WVU Medicine Aspiring Nurse Program at the ACM Garrett County site.
Launched in 2023, the Aspiring Nurse Program offers direct financial assistance—up to $25,000 over two years—to students pursuing a pre-licensure registered nursing degree. In exchange, students commit to a three-year work agreement at a participating WVU Health System hospital upon graduation.
“This is a tremendous opportunity for anyone interested in pursuing a career in nursing,” said Kendra Thayer, Vice President of Clinical Services and Chief Nursing Officer at Garrett Regional Medical Center and Potomac Valley Hospital. “We are especially excited to welcome our largest class to date into the Aspiring Nurse Program. It’s an honor to support these students with financial assistance toward their degrees and, ultimately, to welcome them as part of our team at GRMC following graduation.”
The program provides financial and human-centered support to eligible students enrolled at select schools in West Virginia and neighboring regions. Current WVU Medicine employees may also apply. The program supports up to two years of study in pre-licensure RN programs. RN-to-BSN, LPN, and graduate-level nursing programs are not eligible.
Students selected into the program are interviewed by hospitals in the WVU Health System, including GRMC, to determine fit and interest. Those accepted receive staged financial assistance throughout their studies, including a final payment upon hire.
The 2025 Aspiring Nurse Program cohort at GRMC includes: Madi Artice, Shay Briskey, Tailynn Friend, Karmen Lopez, Kim Rodeheaver, Bry’lee Rodeheaver, Madison Seese, and Sydney Tichinel.
“This program not only eases the financial burden for students but also helps ensure that our local healthcare system continues to have the skilled nurses it needs to provide high-quality care,” added Thayer.
The highly competitive Aspiring Nurse Program is expected to make a significant and lasting impact on participating hospitals throughout the WVU Health System by addressing workforce needs and improving access to care in rural and underserved areas.
For more information on the Aspiring Nurse Program, visit WVUMedicine.org/aspiring-nurse-program/.
GRMC secures congressional support plan to implement radiation oncology services
Posted 9/2/25
Congresswoman McClain Delaney secures $1 million for cancer care expansion
Oakland, Md. – Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) has received approval from the House Appropriations Committee for $1 million in federal Community Project Funding to support the planning, design, and engineering phases, as well as site preparation, for a new radiation oncology center. This funding is proposed for inclusion in the next federal spending bill, which is still under development, marking an important step toward expanding local access to comprehensive cancer care for rural communities in Maryland and surrounding states.
“I’m honored that $1 million in my requested Community Project Funding has been approved by the Appropriations Committee for consideration in the next federal spending package to launch radiation oncology services at GRMC,” said Congresswoman April McClain Delaney. “If passed into law, these funds will help plan for a radiation oncology treatment center, bringing lifesaving care closer to home for families in Garrett County and surrounding areas.”
Congresswoman McClain Delaney visited GRMC on August 25th, meeting with hospital leadership, board and foundation members, staff, and community partners to discuss the potential impact of this funding and the future of cancer care in the region. During the visit, GRMC and Potomac Valley Hospital President and CEO Mark Boucot provided an overview presentation outlining how the funds would be used and shared preliminary plans for the new facility. Boucot expressed gratitude for the support of Congresswoman Delaney, Delegate Hinebaugh, Garrett County commissioners, and the broader community.
GRMC’s grant request was included in the House FY26 Agriculture Appropriations bill and is pending final approval as part of the federal budget process, made possible through Congresswoman Delaney’s leadership in securing this Community Project Funding (CPF) request.
“We are very excited and grateful to be included as a top priority for funding by Congresswoman McClain Delaney,” said Boucot. “While this funding is not yet law, approval by the Appropriations Committee is an important step forward. If enacted, it will allow us to develop a solid plan to bring Radiation Oncology to the GRMC campus, reducing the burden on patients who currently travel long distances for treatment. Congresswoman Delaney’s leadership demonstrates her commitment to our community, and we are sincerely grateful.”
Since opening its Cancer Center in 2016, GRMC has provided on-site chemotherapy and infusion services for patients, staffed by a full-time oncologist, a nurse navigator specializing in cancer care, and a complete team of oncology nurses and technicians. However, patients requiring radiation therapy must currently travel up to two hours roundtrip, often five days a week for as many as eight weeks, creating a significant burden for patients and families. These challenges can make it difficult for patients to complete their treatment regimens.
Bringing radiation therapy to GRMC would represent a transformative step in reducing these barriers and easing the burden on patients who need consistent care. The expansion of cancer services would also strengthen GRMC’s role as one of the largest employers in Garrett County and the surrounding region.
Garrett Regional Medical Center, part of the West Virginia University Medicine health system, is an award-winning 55-bed acute care hospital located in Oakland, Md. The hospital serves more than 46,000 residents across eight counties in Maryland, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania, one of the most rural service areas in the state.
For more information on Garrett Regional Medical Center, visit WVUMedicine.org/Garrett.
Garrett Regional Medical Center Celebrates New Nurse Residency Program Graduates
Posted 9/2/25
Oakland, Md. – Garrett Regional Medical Center proudly congratulates its two newest Nurse Residency Program graduates — Breanna Sphar, LPN, and Ashlee Fulton, RN.
Sphar serves on the Med/Surg floor, and Fulton works in the operating room. Both have successfully completed GRMC’s 12-month nurse residency program, which is designed to support and guide new nurses as they transition into professional practice.
Throughout the year-long program, nurse residents receive mentorship, hands-on clinical training, and the opportunity to collaborate with peers and explore various departments across the hospital. This comprehensive approach helps build a strong foundation for long-term success in their nursing careers.
For more information on Garrett Regional Medical Center, visit WVUMedicine.org/Garrett.
Posted 8/19/25
McHenry, Md. – WVU Medicine Garrett Medical Group McHenry Urgent Care is pleased to announce new extended hours of operation, now open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, seven days a week. This change reflects the clinic’s ongoing commitment to providing accessible, high-quality healthcare for residents and visitors in Garrett County and the surrounding areas.
Conveniently located at 24441 Garrett Highway, McHenry, MD, McHenry Urgent Care offers walk-in medical services for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, helping to bridge the gap between primary care and emergency room visits.
Patients can visit without an appointment and receive prompt care from experienced medical providers. For more information, call 301-387-8718.
WVU Medicine Garrett Medical Group McHenry Urgent Care Expands Hours
The Garrett County Historical Society receives Congressional and Gubernatorial Commendations
Posted 8/5/25
The Garrett County Historical Society recently received both a commendation from Congresswoman April McClain Delaney and Governor Wes Moore for the Society’s dedication to the” preservation of history” in Garrett County. The commendations also noted the” integrity and dedication” involved with obtaining the Smithsonian exhibit, SPARK! Places of Innovation. Both commendations are an honor and truly appreciated by the staff and board of GCHS. The Smithsonian exhibit is a first for Garrett County, but both Karen White, Curator, and Jim Ashby, Board President, guarantee that GCHS plans on hosting more noteworthy exhibitions.
The exhibit continues until August 16, 2025, at the GCHS Museum of Transportation. Karen White noted that visitors have expressed their appreciation of the exhibit, which highlights rural communities across the United States. More importantly, the companion exhibit highlighting “Innovators” in our community has provided additional experiences for the visitor to Garrett County.
Jim Ashby has been very pleased with the turnout and support: “ More visitors are coming downtown for the exhibit, visiting the history museum, and then enjoying our great small town.” Jim also expressed his thanks to the volunteers who have greeted visitors, provided information, and encouraged them to visit the Garrett County Destinations. “Our thanks to the Yough Glades Chapter of the DAR and the Little Meadows Chapter of the SAR for their time and expertise. Another great association that has volunteered is Cindy’s Fund. Sany Hanks Bell and her associates continue to support our community and touch the lives of so many people.”
GRMC announces new Lyme Disease Navigation Services
Posted 8/5/25
Oakland, Md. – Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) is proud to announce the launch of its new Lyme Disease Navigation Services, made possible through the generous support of Don and Elizabeth Morin. The newly established service will serve as a vital resource for individuals living with Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses, offering comprehensive support and guidance throughout diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.
The Morins' donation reflects a shared commitment to improving access to care for those facing the often-complex challenges of Lyme disease, which continues to rise in prevalence across our region.
“This clinic represents hope and healing for so many people who have struggled to find coordinated, compassionate care,” said Mark Boucot, GRMC President and CEO. “We are deeply grateful to Don and Elizabeth Morin for their vision and generosity, which will have a lasting impact on patients and families.”
GRMC’s Lyme Navigation Services will offer patient navigation services to guide individuals through diagnosis and treatment pathways; provide education and support resources for patients, caregivers, and the community; coordinate specialty referrals for neurological, cardiac, and rheumatologic symptoms; assist with insurance and access to care barriers; and support community outreach and prevention education initiatives focused on tick-borne disease awareness.
The services are designed to bridge the gap between primary care and specialized treatment, ensuring every patient receives informed, timely, and compassionate care tailored to their unique health journey.
GRMC’s Lyme Disease Navigation Services is now accepting referrals, with services located at the WVU Medicine Garrett Medical Group Oakland office. For more information, contact Janet Lantz at 301-533-4271 or email janet.lantz@wvumedicine.org.
SBA Offers Disaster Relief to Maryland Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Excessive Rain and Flooding
Posted 8/1/25
ATLANTA - The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Maryland who sustained economic losses caused by flooding, excessive rain and flash flooding that occurred May 13-14, 2025.
The disaster declaration covers the counties of Allegany, Garrett and Washington in Maryland, Bedford, Fulton and Somerset counties in Pennsylvania as well as Hampshire, Mineral and Morgan counties in West Virginia.
Under this declaration, the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to eligible small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs with financial losses directly related to this disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.
“Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”
The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
To apply online visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
The deadline to return economic injury applications is March 16, 2026.
First United Bank & Trust Hosts Annual Hot Dogs for Hospice in Grantsville
Posted 7/29/25
First United Bank & Trust will host its Annual Hot Dogs for Hospice fundraiser on Friday, August 8 at two Oakland locations – Oakland Community Office at 19th S Second Street and the First United Operations Center at 12892 Garrett Highway. Items will be available from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. All proceeds from the event will benefit the Hospice of Garrett County.
Hospice helps our community by providing personal and professional care to terminally ill patients and their families throughout the county. Carissa Rodeheaver, Chairman of the Board, President and Chief Executive Officer of First United Bank & Trust, commented, “One of our top priorities has always been our commitment to supporting our neighbors and especially the non-profits that serve our community. We’re proud to continue this fundraising tradition.”
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 6/30/2025, the corporation posted assets of $2 billion.
County United Way’s Stuff the Bus 2025
Posted 7/23/25
The annual County United Way “Stuff the Bus” school supply drive to benefit students in Garrett County has returned this year. Stuff the Bus will take place on Friday, August 15, from 8 am to 5 pm in the Walmart parking lot in Oakland. Walmart is helping by allowing a bus to be parked in their parking lot so that volunteers can fill it with school supplies.
“This event has been incredibly well supported in the past,” said Misty Deal, County United Way Director of Finance. In 2024, we collected over 8,747 school supply items with a value of $16,940.39, in Garrett County. With an additional donation of hand sanitizers valued at $5,924.93; making the value of all items donated at $22,000. The Garrett County Public School foundation contributed $500 for the purchase of book bags. Monetary contributions totaled $1,762.11. All school supplies stay in Garrett County!
Everyone can help by purchasing new supplies and dropping them off to fill the bus in Oakland on August 15 or at the other drop-off sites before the event date. Businesses are encouraged to contact Misty Deal, 240-362-8647 if interested in participating. We are excited to announce we are continuing our contest for this year’s Stuff the Bus Boxes. We are asking businesses to decorate their own boxes, send a few pictures to misty@cuw.org. We will then share the pictures on our Facebook for votes on the best decorated box, as well as in person voting, at Wal-Mart on August 15th. “This is a great way to have some fun, while working on a greater cause”, said Misty Deal, County United Way, Director of Finance. This year, we received a generous donation for our new “Traveling Trophy”. This trophy will travel each year, allowing bragging rights of the Best Decorated Box in Garrett County.
Items being collected include backpacks, colored pencils, composition books, crayons, disinfecting wipes, erasers, glue sticks/glue, hand sanitizer, highlighters, notebook paper, pencils, pens, pencil cases, post-it notes, reusable water bottles, rulers/scissors, thin dry-erase markers, 3-prong folders w/pockets, 3-ring binders, 1-subject spiral notebooks, 3-subject spiral notebooks, washable markers, and zip lock bags.
Supplement distributions will take place throughout the school year. Supplies will be distributed to the Board of Education, so that all students are prepared and ready to learn. We are proud to continue partnering with Garrett College, to help the incoming freshman start their semester in a positive way!
Monetary donations are welcome. Online donations can be made at www.cuw.org. Checks should be made payable to United Way of Garrett County, 115 Baltimore Street, Cumberland, MD 21502, with GC Stuff the Bus noted on the check memo.
First United Bank & Trust celebrates 125 years of community, commitment, and growth
Posted 7/22/25
First United Bank & Trust proudly celebrates its 125th anniversary in 2025, marking a significant milestone in its journey from a small-town bank to a trusted financial partner across multiple states. Founded in 1900 as the First National Bank of Oakland, the institution has grown to include 22 branches and more than 300 associates — yet its heart remains rooted in community.
“At First United Bank & Trust, 125 years ago, we started as a small, trusted place for neighbors to build their futures,” said Carissa Rodeheaver, Chief Executive Officer, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors. “Today, that spirit is still at the heart of everything we do. Our success is deeply connected to the prosperity of the people and places we serve.”
Through generations of change, First United has remained a steady presence, standing beside its customers and communities. The bank continues to blend tradition with innovation — investing in modern tools and technologies, while honoring the values that have guided it for over a century.
“When you walk through our doors, you’re not just a customer — you are part of our story,” Rodeheaver added. “And as the world evolves, we’re investing in tomorrow’s tools with the same care we’ve given every handshake for the last 125 years.”
First United’s approach is grounded in disciplined growth, strong capital management, and a deep commitment to relationship-building. The bank credits its longevity to the dedication of past leadership, the loyalty of its customers, and the support of its shareholders. As First United looks ahead, it remains focused on delivering uncommon service and customized solutions — honoring its promise to be a bank customers can trust for life.
To learn more about First United’s 125-year journey and its vision for the future, visit MyBank.com/125.
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 3/31/2025, the corporation posted assets of $2 billion.
GRMC Foundation announces 2025 Gala Dinner Sponsor
Posted 7/22/25
Oakland, Md. – Dr. Willis and Robin McGill have been named this year’s Dinner Sponsor for the Garrett Regional Medical Center Foundation Gala. This year’s Gala theme of ‘Diamonds and Decades’, will celebrate the hospital’s 75th anniversary and will be held on Saturday, November 15th at the Ag Heritage Hall at the Garrett County Fairgrounds.
Proceeds raised will benefit the Aspiring Nurse Program at GRMC, offering scholarship opportunities to nursing students in the Garrett County and surrounding region.
For more information on becoming a sponsor, contact Emily Tusing at 301-533-4178 or emily.tobin@wvumedicine.org.
Garrett Regional Medical Center Hosts Future Healthcare Leaders Through AHEC West ECHO Program
Posted 7/8/25
Oakland, Md. – Garrett Regional Medical Center (GRMC) was honored to welcome an inspiring group of 24 high school students last week as part of the AHEC West ECHO program—a dynamic, week-long summer initiative designed for students from Garrett, Allegany, and Washington counties who are exploring careers in healthcare.
The ECHO (Exploring Careers in Health Occupations) program offers hands-on, multidisciplinary experiences that spark interest in the healthcare field. Students engaged in immersive, interactive sessions across several departments at GRMC, including Respiratory Therapy, Outpatient Surgery, Radiology, and our Family-Centered Maternity Suite/Obstetrics.
In addition to these clinical experiences, students learned about exciting opportunities available through GRMC, including our Job Shadowing Program, Nurse Externship, and Patient Care Tech Trainee program—all aimed at supporting career exploration and development in healthcare.
For more information on Garrett Regional Medical Center, visit WVUMedicine.org/Garrett.
HART for Animals Receives Community Trust Foundation Grant to Support Low-Cost Spay/Neuter Program
Posted 7/8/25
June 4, 2025 – Garrett County, MD – HART for Animals is proud to announce it has been awarded a $3,619 grant from the Community Trust Foundation (CTF) in support of HARTHelp, its low-cost spay/neuter program for pets in low-income households.
This generous grant was made possible through CTF’s Ray and Brenda Morriss Community Fund, the Frank and Linda Lancelotta Animal Welfare Fund, and the Fund for Garrett County.
“We are deeply grateful to the Community Trust Foundation and the donors behind these funds for their continued support,” said Paula Yudelevit, Executive Director of HART for Animals. “The HARTHelp program is essential to our mission. By providing affordable spay/neuter services, we’re not only helping pet owners in financial need, but also reducing the number of unwanted animals entering our shelter and preventing the unnecessary euthanasia of healthy pets.”
Since its launch in 2009, HARTHelp has provided over 10,600 low-cost surgeries. The program also offers rabies vaccinations when needed, ensuring pets receive critical preventive care.
The Community Trust Foundation, established in 2006, has awarded more than $6 million in grants and scholarships to nonprofit organizations across Allegany, Garrett, and Mineral Counties. Its mission is to strengthen the region by supporting initiatives that enhance education, culture, and wellness in the community.
Through partnerships with donors and local groups, CTF continues to build a legacy of philanthropy that promotes vibrant, resilient communities throughout Western Maryland and neighboring areas.
For additional information on HART, the HART Animal Center, or any of its programs, or to donate, visit the HART website at www.hartforanimals.org/ or become part of the HART for Animals community on Facebook facebook.com/HARTforAnimals