The Talbot Spy

The nonprofit e-newspaper for the Talbot County Community

You are here: Home / Archives for Covid-19

COVID-19: Mid-Shore Check-in with Corey Pack on Tests, Masks, and Social Distancing

by 1 Comment

The Spy talked this morning to Corey Pack, president of the Talbot County Council and a member of the COVID-19 task force on the Mid-Shore, for a current update the number of tests taken and positive cases identified in the five county area.

Pack reports that 172 tests on Mid-Shore residents have been given at the mobile lab at the Chesapeake College parking lot and that the vast majority of those testing positive are recovering at home rather the Regional Shore Health hospitals. He also supports the recent federal recommendations for citizens to wear masks or other apparel to resist airborne spread of the disease.

This video is approximately seven minutes in length. For more information for Kent County please go here. For more information on Talbot County’s response to COVID-19 please go here. For instructions on how to make a face mask, go here.

Gov. Hogan Announces Financial Relief Initiatives, Accelerates Hospital Surge Plan

by Leave a Comment

Gov. Larry Hogan, in collaboration with Maryland’s financial institutions, announced a series of financial relief initiatives to provide further assistance to millions of Marylanders and small businesses who are facing economic hardships due to COVID-19. Nearly 70 of Maryland’s largest banks, credit unions, mortgage lenders, state agencies, and other financial entities have collaborated to provide additional flexibility to borrowers.

“I wish that I could tell you when we’re going to turn the corner, when you’ll be able to go back to work, to school, to church, or when any of us will be able to get back to living a normal life again,” Hogan said. “No matter how long and how hard the road ahead may be, we are going to have to find a way together to keep going and to keep fighting this invisible enemy with everything we’ve got. It may seem hard to believe right now, but I am hopeful that our state will make it through this together, and that eventually, we will come back stronger and better than ever.”

MOMENT OF PRAYER. While it is currently unsafe to gather together in churches, temples, and other places of worship across the state, Governor Hogan issued a proclamation declaring a statewide moment of prayer and reflection at noon on Sunday, April 5.

“This Sunday is Palm Sunday, the beginning of Holy Week, and Wednesday is the beginning of Passover for our Jewish community,” said the governor. “In the Christian faith, we use this time to remember and reflect on the sacrifice of one, for the redemption of many. Each and every one of us is now being asked to make sacrifices that may very well help save the lives of others. At noon this Sunday, I am calling on all Marylanders to join together at home, or wherever you are, in a moment of prayer or reflection for those we have lost, those who are sick, and the doctors, nurses, clinicians, health care workers, and first responders on the front lines around the clock working to bring about a new dawn in our history.”

FINANCIAL RELIEF PACKAGE. Governor Hogan enacted an executive order which builds on an earlier order that prohibits residential evictions arising from a tenant’s substantial loss of income due to COVID-19. The latest order is now extended to commercial and industrial evictions. The order also:

• Stops lenders from initiating the mortgage foreclosure process

• Authorizes the Maryland Commissioner of Financial Regulation to suspend certain lending limits for Maryland banks and credit unions, on a case-by-case basis, in an effort to make more credit available to businesses

• Prohibits repossession of cars and trucks

• Prohibits repossession of homes that are not considered “real property,” such as mobile homes, trailers, and live-aboard boats

Read the amended executive order.

Consistent with applicable guidelines, Marylanders may be eligible for the following opportunities upon contacting their financial service providers:

• 90 Days of Payment Forbearance or Deferral. Mortgage lenders and servicers will provide up to a 90-day forbearance or deferral period for mortgage payments.

• Waiving Late Fees. Mortgage lenders and servicers will not charge late fees during the forbearance or deferral period.

• Credit Reporting. Mortgage lenders and servicers will not report negative information to the credit bureaus during the forbearance or deferral period.

• 90 Days Forbearance from Foreclosure Initiation. All mortgage lenders and servicers will follow the forbearance and reduced payment programs established by federal authorities.

HOSPITAL SURGE PLAN. Governor Hogan has ordered the acceleration of the state’s hospital surge plan in order to be completed six weeks ahead of schedule. Work is underway to create capacity immediately through expansions to existing facilities, like hotels and convention centers.

• Baltimore Convention Center. Initial construction is complete on the field hospital at the Baltimore Convention Center, including facilities for patient and staff areas. Partitions and other necessary fixtures are being finalized this weekend, and 100 staff members have already been hired.

• Medical Tents. The first wave of advanced medical tents have been assigned to hospitals and to Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services facilities, and more will be allocated in the coming days.

NEW DRIVE-THRU TESTING SITES. On Monday, three vehicle emission inspections stations were opened in Glen Burnie, Waldorf and Bel Air. Two additional testing sites at emission inspection stations will be opened in Columbia in Howard County and White Oak in Montgomery County. All patients must obtain a referral from their doctor and will be seen by appointment only.

NEW GUIDANCE FOR LONG-TERM CARE FACILITIES. As multiple long-term care facilities in Maryland experience COVID-19 outbreaks among vulnerable residents, the Maryland Department of Health has issued new guidance to these facilities to promote the use of procedure or surgical masks for employees at all times and in all areas. Read the full guidance here. 

GOVERNOR HOGAN ENACTS TELEHEALTH EXPANSION. Prior to today’s press conference, Governor Hogan enacted HB448/SB402 and HB1208/SB502. This emergency legislation enables health care providers in Maryland to provide remote health care services so long as those services follow proper standards of care, and expands coverage of mental health services provided via telehealth.

All of Governor Hogan’s emergency orders and proclamations are available here. For health resources, including case counts and clinician guidance, visit coronavirus.maryland.gov.

Rep. Harris Blasts Relief Package, Says U.S. Will ‘Learn A Lot’ From COVID-19

by 3 Comments

As the COVID-19 pandemic sinks its teeth into the U.S., policymakers are looking for ways to stop their constituents from being ravaged by both the disease and its economic fallout.

Last week federal lawmakers passed a $2.2 trillion COVID-19 aid package, accounting for $100 billion in hospital bailouts, increased federal unemployment insurance and aid for nationwide commercial and nonprofit businesses.

A doctor and tenured politician, U.S. Rep. Andrew P. Harris (R-Md.) was a vocal critic of the multi-trillion dollar measure, which he said will only pull the country through for about two months.

Notably, the congressman cited the need for single-issue bailout bills, questioning the necessity of a number of add-ons in the funding measure — and their price tag.

“As I sit on the floor of the House today listening to colleague after colleague say ‘this bill is not perfect’ and ‘I’ll support this bill because of the crisis, but it has many flaws’ — I again urge my colleagues to consider #singleissuebills for all future legislation,” he tweeted. “…and especially for legislation in crisis. We need to learn to #skipthepork and stop using a crisis for pet projects that we can’t get passed otherwise.”

Harris told Maryland Matters in an interview this week that he supported the first two rounds of relief legislation earlier in March, but rejected the third passed last Friday because some of its provisions would ultimately have a negative economic impact.

“I thought that some of the policy measures would harm some of the small businesses,” he said, “especially after the first time in the country’s history, you know, we will pay people more not to work … than they would have earned at their job.”

A worker earning the federal minimum wage over a 40-hour workweek makes $300.

The Washington Post reported last week that the bill is set to add a supplemental $600 onto current federal unemployment benefits for a period of four months. The current average amount of benefits paid out rests around $300 a week.

“Had that not been in the bill, I would have voted for the bill,” Harris said. “But I think that’s such a bad precedent policy because we don’t know how long this is going to last and to, to set that precedent of paying people more not to work than to work is not a good idea.”

Harris is not only the sole Republican in the Maryland congressional delegation but also the only physician. He has repeatedly expressed appreciation for health care workers online in recent days.

He called the most recent bill unfair to medical professionals on the frontlines of the pandemic, saying they are being asked to work under dangerous conditions for no extra money.

“And how can we justify that when we pay someone who’s unemployed more than they … got paid when they worked?”

The economy has already taken a huge hit since the virus’ spread to the U.S., and Maryland is feeling the heat. Two weeks ago, over 42,000 residents applied for unemployment insurance in a single week.

Harris believes that despite the blows, the economy will return to business as usual “very, very quickly” when the worst of COVID-19 passes.

“We are the strongest economy in the world and after we bounce back, we will probably continue to be the strongest economy in the world,” he said.

‘These decisions are best made at the local level’

In the meantime, Harris said U.S. scientists are working on vaccines that other nations will come to rely on, citing nations in Africa, which Harris says have yet to see an “upswing” in coronavirus cases.

During the interview, Harris applauded the Trump administration’s decision to cease travel with China in February, noting that countries like South Korea and Italy that failed to do so “had their peaks earlier than we did.”

He also commended the decision not to federally mandate shelter-in-place procedures across the country, because “the solution for … New York City would probably be very different from the solution for South Dakota.”

“These decisions are best made at the local level where people on the ground know what resources they … have, they’re tracking closely how the disease is spreading, and they know best what measures to take,” he said.

Harris called the public health crisis “the tale of two different pandemics:” the raging health care battle taking place in urban centers vs. the virus’ limited penetration of rural areas, which he said have been “relatively spared.”

“That’s what you see nationwide: You see that the urban areas and the areas where people live closer together, you know, have much higher case rates,” he said.

Harris suggested that rings true in Maryland as well.

Because Maryland’s shore counties are less populated, Harris said he thinks they may fare better during the pandemic, and that Gov. Lawrence J. Hogan Jr.’s (R) Monday decision to issue a stay at home directive will have a bigger impact on higher-population areas like Prince George’s County.

“I think the Eastern Shore may be spared a lot of the cases that are going to develop in the Baltimore-Washington area,” he said.

As of Wednesday afternoon, Harris’ district has 49 confirmed cases of COVID-19 across eight counties — just 2% of the state’s total.

But Eastern Shore officials have taken a number of steps in recent days to limit exposures. On Monday, Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan announced the month-long closure of the beach, boardwalk and inlet, followed by a shutdown of the resort town’s hotels and short-term rental properties on Tuesday.

Harris said that while this is a local official’s game, the federal government has a role in ensuring that aid gets to U.S. epicenters — acting as a “clearinghouse for supplies.”

Reserves to test for and combat the virus are in high demand across the country, with governors looking to the Strategic National Stockpile to bridge the gaps.

The stockpile is a depot of pharmaceutical and medical supplies intended to be used to supplement local shortages during public health emergencies like disease outbreaks and national disasters.

The Washington Post reported that after deploying millions of masks, gloves and N95 respirators during the H1N1 pandemic of 2009, the National Strategic Stockpile was never adequately replenished.

Harris said that the key to solving problems within the supply chain surrounding tests and other equipment lies in flattening the curve.

The inability to access widespread COVID-19 testing across state lines has posed a number of problems in diagnosing patients who fear they may have been exposed or are exhibiting symptoms.

FDA officials announced Monday that they are hastening the review process of COVID-19 diagnostic tests developed by U.S. companies.

Harris said that with the advent of rapid, accurate testing will come the government’s ability to track the progression of the disease, allowing officials to make “predictions” about where the greatest need for supplies — like ventilators and gloves — will lie.

Not the last pandemic

According to Harris, the U.S. is going to learn a lot from how it handles this pandemic — not just about stockpiling but about increasing the speed of production during times of crisis and keeping key elements of the supply chain on U.S. soil.

He predicted this will not be the last virus to reach the classification of “pandemic” worldwide.

“I think that we have two dangers: One is from naturally occurring viruses,” Harris said. “The other danger that I think we’re going to face and we have to proactively work to counter that is … bioweapons.”

The congressman explained that as it becomes easier to genetically manipulate viruses, the more likely it is that “bad actors” will implement them in acts of biowarfare.

“I think that we’re going to learn a lot from this naturally occurring virus, but some of the principles we’re going to put in place will be very important as the protection of the American public from potential use of bioweapons in the future,” he said.

By Hannah Gaskill

Talbot County COVID-19 Cases Rise

by Leave a Comment

Key Points for April 2

• Maryland saw an increase of 346 new cases in the past 24 hours, bringing the total number to 2,331. Talbot County has one new COVID-19 case for a total of five.

• Talbot County Public Schools will distribute iPads to elementary school students this week to enable one-to-one learning for all students K-12. Check out www.tcps.k12.md.us for more information.

• Easton Utilities has installed four (4) free drive-up hotspots in parking lots around town for those without internet access—Talbottown Shopping Center, Idlewild Park, Moton Park, and the Talbot County Free Library.

• The Emergency Operations Center team was activated 21 days ago and will continue to coordinate Talbot County’s response until the crisis passes.

*****

“The numbers are going up, and that is a trend that will continue for several weeks,” said County Health Officer Dr. Fredia Wadley. “We are all going to have to hang in there a little while longer.”

As the country grows weary of cancellations and restrictions, officials says this is not the time to let our guard down.

“As we press forward, we must recognize the propensity for people to get tired and let their guard down,” said Talbot County President Corey Pack. “This will result in increased infections in our community. It is critically important that we stay the course.”

The Emergency Operations team continues to support Talbot County’s health and medical capabilities, human dervices, and public safety, as well as businesses and non-profits. Daily updates are posted at talbotcovid19.org.

“We encourage people in Talbot County to tune into our daily releases for timely and credible information moving forward,” said Clay Stamp, Director of Emergency Services. “The Emergency Operations Center is constantly monitoring the situation, and we will share all the information we have as soon as we get it.”

St. Michaels Community Center

The St. Michaels Community Center is providing take-out meals and grocery pick-up to those in need from the Center at 108 Railroad Ave. on Mondays from 5-7 pm; Wednesdays from 3-5 pm; and Fridays from 11-3 pm. SMCC is also serving as the food distribution hub for the entire Bay Hundred area.

All SMCC’s non-food-related programs are postponed and the Treasure Cove Thrift Shop closed.

Donations are still needed to help purchase food for our neediest and can be made online at www.paypal.me/smccmd

See updates at www.stmichaelscc.org/news

Where to Find More Information

• CDC COVID-2019 Website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

• Talbot County COVID-19 Information www.talbotcovid19.org

• Shore Regional Health COVID Information https://www.umms.org/shore/patients-visitors/coronavirus

• Maryland Department of Health Website: https://health.maryland.gov/pages/home.aspx

• Talbot County Health Department Website: https://health.maryland.gov/talbotcounty/Pages/home.aspx

• Talbot County Health Department Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalbotHealthMaryland/

• Talbot County Department of Emergency Services Website: http://www.talbotdes.org/default.asp

• Talbot County Department of Emergency Services Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talbotdes

Heron Point Resident Tests Positive for COVID-19, Fifth Case in Kent County

by Leave a Comment

A resident of an independent living cottage at Heron Point Retirement Community has tested positive for COVID-19, making the county’s fifth patient, Kent County’s health officer confirmed.

William Webb said the Kent County Health Department is working with Heron Point on a contact investigation.

As a cottage resident, there is limited exposure to the broader facility, he said.

Heron Point, an Acts Retirement-Life Communities facility on Campus Avenue in Chestertown, includes cottages and apartment homes, as well as assisted living and skilled nursing care accommodations, on 66 acres along the Chester River.

Webb said Heron Point has been conducting the standard practices listed by the CDC and WHO, including frequent hand washing and disinfecting surfaces.

“They have been doing a lot of that already,” Webb said. “They’re very good at that over there.”

For the general community, Webb also encouraged frequent hand washing and following Gov. Larry Hogan’s stay-at-home order.

“Stay the course,” Webb said. “This is going to take longer than anybody wants. Stay at home if at all possible.”

 

Dorchester County Health Department Announces Second Case of COVID-19

by Leave a Comment

The Dorchester County Health Department announced Wednesday the second diagnosed case of COVID-19 in Dorchester County. The individual is a female, in her 70s, and hospitalized with underlying medical conditions.

The Health Department is currently investigating the case with the help of the Maryland Department of Health. Communicable Disease nurses will identify contacts and advise them of any necessary actions to take. The Health Department will share information, as soon as possible, if any risk to the public is identified.

The local contact tracing investigation for Dorchester’s first confirmed case, regarding a male in his 50s, has concluded. The individual is self-isolating at home and recovering. No risk to the public has been identified.

Residents are reminded to stay home, practice social distancing, and wash your hands and disinfect frequently touched surfaces often.

“We understand the sacrifice we are asking you to make by staying at home and practicing social distancing,” says Dr. Casey Scott, Deputy Health Officer. “This is not easy, and we do not take this lightly. However, it is very important to follow
the guidance of the Governor and our state health department to try to limit the spread of this virus.”

Individuals experiencing flu-like symptoms, including fever, cough, and shortness of breath, should call their health care provider for guidance. Everyone does not need to be tested for COVID-19. Testing is only indicated in certain circumstances.

Visit coronavirus.maryland.gov for information and resources about COVID-19 in Maryland and follow Dorchester County Health Department’s Emergency Preparedness Facebook page at www.facebook.com/dorchesterhealthemergencypreparedness for updates.

Dorchester County residents with general questions or concerns about COVID-19 can call the Dorchester County Health Department at 410-228-3223 Monday through Friday, 8am-4:30pm or 2-1-1 after hours. Call takers cannot share any additional details about the cases, but can help answer residents’ questions.

Talbot County Perseveres as Health Crisis Continues

by Leave a Comment

Health officials say perseverance is key for Talbot County as the number of COVID-19 cases in Maryland continues to
rise, with one new case reported locally, according to a Wednesday afternoon press release. Talbot County now has four confirmed cases.

“Perseverance is defined as doing something despite difficulty,” said Director of Emergency Services Clay Stamp. “We
are 20 days into the activation with no end in sight. It’s important that we keep our spirits high and look toward brighter
days as we continue to work through this health crisis.”

Emergency operations team members are supporting Talbot County’s health and medical capabilities, human services,
and public safety, as well as businesses and non-profits.

“We as a community must pace ourselves and invest in our individual welfare while being helpful to others,” Stamp said. “Although this may become challenging as we press forward, help is available.

Talbot County Council President Corey Pack praised Talbot County’s efforts to address the health and economic issues.

“I love seeing the pictures of the work our partners are doing to meet the needs of this community,” he said. “I continue
to be amazed by the sense of commitment in this community and the helping hands we extend to our neighbors.”

Maryland may see a peak in cases within the next two to three weeks, according to Talbot County Health Officer Dr.
Fredia Wadley, but she echoes the need to persevere.

“People seem to be settling in and learning how to be at home,” she said. “It’s not easy, but we will get through it, day by day, in a safe way.”

Child Sheltering for Essential Workers

Many parents have done a great job finding alternative childcare and we appreciate their efforts. We prefer to keep children separated when possible. Talbot County has additional capacity for children 6 weeks to 12 years of age whose parents have been unable to find child care and must work out of the home. The services are from 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

The following are eligible to call and inquire about child care if they have no other options. All of the below will need a letter from their place of work stating that they are essential and working out of the home and need child care.
1. Staff of hospitals – professional and support staff
2. Staff of EMS and 911 center
3. Department of Health and Department of Social Services
4. Staff of Detention Center
5. Law enforcement officers/firemen
6. Support staff of Board of Education involved in deliveries and other services due to COVID19
7. Any Talbot government worker that has been deemed unable to work from home and must work at office/site
8. Registered nurses and CNAs of nursing homes
9. Staff of ambulatory health care providers offices
10. Pharmacists
11. Mental health providers
12. Staff of Banks

Parents working at one of the above may email talbotkids@ymcachesapeake.org to inquire about services and how to enroll their child.

After getting a letter from your employer stating your eligibility and enrolling your child for this service, you must email talbotkids@ymcachesapeake.org by 4:30 p.m. the day prior to your child needing services if you are not bringing your child every day or if you are not bringing your child on a regular basis for established days of the week. The child care centers cannot staff appropriately unless notice is given the prior day that your child will be in their care.

Meal Distribution

New St. John’s United Methodist Church, 9123 Tilghman Island Road, Wittman, will be holding a Pop-up Food Pantry from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. every Friday, starting Friday, April 3. The church also maintains an unmanned food pantry outside that offers non-perishables 24/7 to families in need.

Talbot County Library

Beginning at 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 7, and continuing at 10 a.m. every Tuesday thereafter, the Talbot County Free Library will take to Facebook to offer a live Story Time program for preschoolers (birth – 5 years of age).

Children’s Librarian Laura Powell will read stories, lead group sing-alongs, and generally having a good time making sure our community’s little ones remain entertained and engaged during this difficult period in all of our lives.

Parents can find the library’s live Story Time at: www.facebook.com/Talbot-County-Free-Library-130124829867/

Talbot County Public Schools

Distribution of iPads

We will be distributing iPads to elementary students at their schools from 1 to 5 p.m. Thursday, April 2, and from 8 a.m. to noon Friday, April 3.

TCPS recognizes that not all of our families have access to reliable internet connectivity, so we are also planning for how we can best meet the needs of all students.

Teachers have reached out to families to determine whether or not they have internet access. Learning activity packets will be mailed to students who currently do not have internet access, and therefore would not be able to use an iPad or laptop for distance learning.

TCPS Technology has established help desk hours for any student requiring assistance or repair for a laptop or iPad.

1. Helpdesk locations: SMES and EHS in the front lobby.

2. Helpdesk Days/Hours: 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays

3. Drop off/Pickup: Plastic bags will be provided for devices being dropped off. Parents and students will remain in their cars.

4. Email Access: Send emails to helpdesk@talbotschools.org to ask questions online, appointments will be encouraged.

5. Disinfecting: Techs will wipe down devices upon receipt and prior to return.

Food Distribution
The next TCPS meal distribution for children ages 2-18 will be PICK UP ONLY from 9 to 11 a.m. Friday, April 3, at the following locations: Chapel District Elementary, Easton Middle, Easton Elementary-Dobson, St. Michaels Middle High, Tilghman Elementary, and White Marsh Elementary.

The Friday package will include breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack for Friday and Monday along with the CarePacks weekend food bag.

“I continue to marvel at the number of committed staff and volunteers who make this all happen amid this pandemic,” said Dr. Kelly Griffith, Talbot’s school superintendent.

Mental Health Hotlines

Eastern Shore Crisis Help Line – 888-407-8018
Phone counselors at the Eastern Shore Crisis Response and Resource Helpline work 24 hours a day, seven days a week to assist with individuals who are in need of mental health resources.

Mid-Shore Council on Family Violence – 1-800-927-4673.
Available 24/7/365. Victims can also contact our hotline through our Website and from our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram Accounts. Emergency Shelter for victims, their children and pets is available. You can still get a protective order, and we can help you remotely. https://mscfv.org/

For All Seasons
Sexual Assault and Mental Health Crisis hotlines
English Hotline: 1.800.310.7273 or 410.820.5600
Spanish Hotline: 410.829.6143

Where to Find More Information
• CDC COVID-2019 Website: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
• Talbot County COVID-19 Information www.talbotcovid19.org
• Shore Regional Health COVID Information https://www.umms.org/shore/patients-visitors/coronavirus
• Maryland Department of Health Website: https://health.maryland.gov/pages/home.aspx
• Talbot County Health Department Website: https://health.maryland.gov/talbotcounty/Pages/home.aspx
• Talbot County Health Department Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalbotHealthMaryland/
• Talbot County Department of Emergency Services Website: http://www.talbotdes.org/default.asp
• Talbot County Department of Emergency Services Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talbotdes

Bulletin: Talbot Halts New Stays at Short-Term Rentals, B&Bs

by Leave a Comment

Talbot County’s short-term rentals and bed and breakfasts may not accept any new guests after March 31 and may not take new reservations.

The Talbot County Council imposed the new restrictions Tuesday afternoon as it amended the county’s declaration of emergency for COVID-19.

The amended order states:

a. No new reservations shall be made until the expiration of this First Amended Declaration or further amendment by Council.

b. No occupancies of short term rental or bed and breakfast properties may begin after March 31, 2020, until the expiration of this First Amended Declaration or further amendment by Council.

Guests staying in Talbot County as of Tuesday may remain through the end of their current booking and may extend their stay “provided that (i) the owner provides the Talbot County Department of Planning and Zoning the names of all such guests and the dates by which all current guests will be vacating the premises, and (ii) that the owner and all guests comply with Governor Hogan’s executive orders, namely prohibition on large gatherings and the stay-at-home order, as well as complying with all other laws, rules, and regulations governing short-term rentals and bed and breakfasts.”

The order does allow new reservations to be made “for guests who are deemed by federal, State, or local governmental authorities as essential personnel needed to help respond to the spread of COVID-19 in Talbot County, including, without limitation, doctors, nurses, emergency first responders, law enforcement, and fire fighters, provided that the owner provides the Talbot County Department of Planning and Zoning the names of all such guests, their status as essential personnel, and the dates by which they will be vacating the premises.”

This story will be updated with the county council’s discussion about the amended order.

Coronavirus Closes Bay Region Beaches, Some Park Facilities

by Leave a Comment

The coronavirus pandemic that’s keeping many people inside across the Chesapeake Bay watershed is also limiting some outdoor recreational opportunities — closing campgrounds, playgrounds, public beaches and some parks. In Maryland, it’s also putting a crimp in boating.

Authorities issued stay-at-home orders in Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, the District of Columbia, New York and West Virginia. In Pennsylvania, a growing number of counties joined their ranks. But such decrees still allow ample opportunities for getting outside to hike, bike, jog, fish or hunt — or just take in a little fresh air and nature. Following is a state-by-state rundown.

Maryland

The stay-at-home order issued March 30 by Gov. Larry Hogan specifically permits “outdoor exercise activities, such as walking, hiking, running, or biking,” as long as people maintain a 6-foot separation from each other.

But recreational boating is not permitted. That’s a bitter pill in a state with more than 200,000 registered power- and sailboats. Boaters took to social media to complain, and at least one started an online petition asking Hogan to lift the ban. One signer argued that boating is “good for mental health,” while others maintained it fit the spirit of “social distancing.”

Amid a flurry of questions, the state Department of Natural Resources issued new guidelines on Tuesday that say “limited” hunting and recreational fishing are permitted, including by boat, if pursued to obtain food. That prompted at least one boater to suggest he’d be sure to have a fishing rod aboard.

The DNR also specified that kayaking and paddle boarding are acceptable forms of outdoor exercise, if practiced with proper separation. Though not specifically mentioned in DNR guidance, canoeing is also permitted, according to DNR spokesman Gregg Bortz, providing that whoever else is in the canoe is someone you’re living with.

Delaware

Delaware’s state parks remain open with their fees waived, but its state-operated beaches are closed for all but exercise and surf-fishing under Gov. Jim Carney’s stay-at-home orders.

Those parks were all but shuttered to out-of-state visitors. A week after Carney ordered anyone coming into Delaware to self-quarantine for 14 days, he extended the policy March 30 to apply to those heading into the state to fish, hunt or visit a park.

Playgrounds have been closed in parks throughout the region to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus. Photo by Jeremy Cox/Bay Journal News Service

Surf-fishing, an activity known for packing beaches during warm weather, is limited to people fishing from vehicles with a cap of two people from the same household. Vehicles must be parked at least 20 yards apart, according to the Department of Natural Resource and Environmental Control.

“This change is designed to allow a source of food and a bit of safely distant recreation, but it is not intended to allow the normal type of surf-fishing we see with groups of people engaged in non-fishing activities. The beaches are still not a place for numbers of people engaged in social activities,” DNREC Secretary Shawn Garvin said.

All state parks playgrounds, campsites and park offices are closed. Any visitors must practice social distancing. Upstate trout season remains open in seven designated streams.

Pennsylvania

Thirty-three counties are under stay-at-home orders, but residents are still permitted to engage in outdoor activities such as walking, hiking or running, as long as they keep their distance from others.

State parks and state forests remain open but all facilities, such as rest rooms, pavilions, and campgrounds, are closed. For details and updates, go here.

The Fish and Boat Commission did delay the early start of trout season in Southeastern Pennsylvania to coincide with an April 18 opening day in the rest of the state. Stream stocking was accelerated, without the assistance of volunteers. For more info, go here.

Virginia

Gov. Ralph Northam ordered all Virginians to stay home but included “engaging in outdoor activities, including for exercise,” among the exceptions. He didn’t address boating, but said generally that individuals using outdoor spaces, “whether on land or on water,” must stay at least 6 feet away from each other, unless the others are family or household members or caretakers.

Virginia state parks have closed visitor centers, cabins, campgrounds and restrooms, but trails and outdoor spaces are still open for day use. For details, see here.

Northam also declared a moratorium on most private campground reservations and closed all public beaches except for exercising and fishing. For more info, go here.

District of Columbia

As in neighboring states, District residents have been ordered to stay home, unless they have some “essential” purpose. They may venture out to engage in “certain authorized recreational activities.” The list includes: “walking, hiking, running, dog-walking, biking, rollerblading, scootering, skateboarding, playing tennis, golfing, gardening, and other activities where all participants comply with social distancing requirements and there is no person-to-person contact.” It’s unclear whether fishing or any type of boating is acceptable.

New York

With a statewide stay-at-home order, New York park officials encouraged people to get outdoors but to #RecreateLocal.

The Department of Environmental Conservation created the hashtag in a campaign urging people to keep visits short and not travel too far from home. “To keep these places safe and healthy for everyone, we need to adjust the ways we enjoy our parks,” State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said.

Like other states, New York has waived fees at state parks but closed playgrounds, canceled all public programs and shuttered nature centers and other facilities. All state-operated campgrounds are closed through at least April 30; anyone with a reservation in the meantime is being given refunds. For more info, go here.

The state urged people to keep their distance from each other while outdoors and avoid group activities, such as basketball and football. If crowds are forming at a park, people should go somewhere else, officials said. Fishing and boating were allowed, but officials urged boaters to stay at least six feet from each other.

West Virginia

As in other states, Gov. Jim Justice’s stay-at-home order specifically allows walking, hiking, biking, jogging and just being “in nature for exercise,” with proper separation from others.

All state campgrounds are closed through April 30. All restrooms are closed, and all events canceled.

Day-use areas, such as hiking trails and fishing lakes, continue to be open for public use. The state has waived fishing license fees through April 24 for state residents. Under Justice’s order, no outdoor gatherings could exceed 10 people and they must stay at least 6 feet apart. Justice also closed private campgrounds to out-of-state travelers.

National parks

National parks remain mostly open, but they are coming under increasing pressure to close after reporting that seven employees have confirmed cases of the coronavirus.

The Park Service has closed popular parks such as Great Smoky Mountains, Yellowstone and Grand Teton, plus dozens of other sites to reduce risks of spreading illness. But many more remain open, and the government has waived entrance fees.

The chair of the Coalition to Protect America’s National Parks, Phil Francis, wrote Interior Secretary David Bernhardt on Tuesday urging him to close the parks to protect employees and help slow the spread of COVID-19.

With 54 sites in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, the National Park Service says it is modifying operations on a park-by-park basis during the pandemic. It is basing those decision on guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as well as state and local health authorities, officials said.

Among the sites closed in the Bay watershed are Fort McHenry in Baltimore, the Washington Monument in the District of Columbia and the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.

At other sites, parks have suspended visitor services, with exceptions for law enforcement and trash removal.

Among the changes announced in the Bay region’s national parks:

• The Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park in Virginia canceled its Illumination of the Fredericksburg National Cemetery scheduled over Memorial Day weekend. The event typically draws 4,000-9,000 visitors a year. The parks also curtailed services to only those considered essential.

• National parks in the greater Washington area remain open but most indoors facilities, roads, playgrounds and other facilities are closed. In the District’s popular Rock Creek Park, four iconic park fountains are closed.

• At the Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania, all non-life sustaining operations are shut down, including restrooms, museum and observation towers.

• The Shenandoah National Park in Virginia remains open but has closed several popular trails and parking lots because they were attracting large crowds. The annual openings of its lodges had been delayed until May 21.

Appalachian Trail

Trailhead facilities and other access points to the Appalachian National Scenic Trail have been shut down in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests in Virginia to prevent groups from congregating.

After multiple sections of the popular footpath from Maine to Georgia drew large crowds in late March, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy issued an appeal to hikers to stay away until the risks of spreading COVID-19 to others has reduced significantly.

National forests

National forests remain open, but many campgrounds and facilities are closed. The George Washington and Jefferson Forests in Virginia are still open for “dispersed camping and other activities that support social distancing and small groups,” according to a Forest Service release. For details on what’s open where, go here.

By Timothy B. Wheeler, Jeremy Cox, and Ad Crable.

Covid-19 & Small Acts of Kindness: Latitude 38 in Oxford

by Leave a Comment

This was the post:

We want to thank everyone for your support during this difficult time. We want you all to stay healthy and safe. Thanks to Sysco, Latitude 38 can offer a FREE farmers market to you on Tuesday from 10am-12pm or until our produce is gone. We will have FREE potatoes, oranges, green leaf lettuce, green cabbage, romaine lettuce, lemons, limes and avocados. We hope this saves our seniors a trip to the grocery store!

Many appreciative people came by on foot, on bikes, or in cars. By 11:30 am, they had given away over 300 lbs. of potatoes, almost 400 heads of lettuce and cabbage, over 300 oranges, 200 avocados, and 300 lemons and limes.

 

 

Thank YOU, Latitude 38!

 

×

Make a DonationMaybe later

×
Sign up for the 3pm Spy news blast to keep updated on the health of the Mid-Shore