There have been 18 new COVID-19 cases since July 30th and a new death reported, the first in several days. The local positivity rate continues to rise, as has the state of Maryland. Statewide, the rate is 3.52 per cent, with the local rate exceeding that, at 3.9 per cent. The percentage of Allegany County residents who are fully vaccinated continues to inch up. As of Tuesday, 40.7 per cent have been fully vaccinated; the state rate is at 58.8 per cent. Another walk-in COVID vaccination clinic will be held next Wednesday at the Willowbrook Office Complex from 9 to noon and from 1 to 4 p.m.