Talbot Spy COVID-19 Daily Mid-Shore Update for April 26 (3 PM)

For the next few weeks, the Spy will be aggregating the latest news updates, as well as closings and cancellations due to the COVID-19 pandemic on the Mid-Shore, every twenty-four hours. If your organization, school or business is not listed, please send us information about programming changes at [email protected] or [email protected].

Summary

	Confirmed	Daily Change	Deaths
Kent County	68	1	3
Queen Anne’s County	48	0	0
Talbot County	37	3	1
Caroline County	64	1	0
Dorchester County	50	6	2
State of Maryland	18,581	815 (4.58%)	827 (+30)
State of Delaware	4,034	458 (12.8%)	120 (+8)

Sources: State and local health departments. The Spy updates this chart between 2 and 3 p.m. Statewide data is updated about 10 a.m. each day; counties may update data throughout the day until 5 p.m. If county and state data conflict, county data is reported. Daily change is the total (and, for state data, the percentage) increase in confirmed cases since the previous day.

Latest News

April 26 3 p.m.

• Talbot County reports 37 confirmed COVID-19 cases, with 3 cases added in the past 24 hours.

• The number of confirmed cases in Maryland rose by 815 in the past 24 hours to 18,581. Deaths increased 30 to 827; another 83 deaths in Maryland are probably related to COVID-19.

• Another 202 Marylanders were hospitalized for the virus in the past 24 hours, bringing the total who were ever hospitalized to 3,962. Of that number, 1,463 remain hospitalized — 933 in acute care and 530 in intensive care; 1,177 patients have been released from isolation, including 12 in the past 24 hours.

• The number of negative test results is 78,084 ; 6,727 of those were reported in the past 24 hours.

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April 25 3 p.m.

• Talbot County remains at 32 confirmed COVID-19 cases.

• The number of confirmed cases in Maryland rose by 1,150 in the past 24 hours to 17,766. Deaths increased 74 to 797; another 78 deaths in Maryland are probably related to COVID-19.

• Another 142 Marylanders were hospitalized for the virus in the past 24 hours, bringing the total hospitalized to  3,760. Of that number, 1,408 remain hospitalized — 870 in acute care and 538 in intensive care; 1,165 patients have been released from isolation, including 57 in the past 24 hours.

• The number of negative test results is 71,357; 3,257 of those were reported in the past 24 hours.

 

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April 24 3 p.m.

• Talbot County has 32 confirmed COVID-19 cases, with 4 added in the past 24 hours. All four cases were the contacts of a known case who were already quarantined.

• Of Maryland’s 723 deaths, 328 have occurred in long-term care facilities.

• The University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Easton discharged seven patients who are recovering from a COVID-19 infection.

• After evaluating surge capacity, hospital officials have elected not to activate the medical facility at Chesapeake College as an overflow unit for COVID-19 patients at this time.

• The Chapel District Elementary School will be the site of a drive-thru food distribution beginning at 10 a.m. Monday, April 27.

• The number of confirmed cases in Maryland rose by 879 in the past 24 hours to 16,616. Deaths increased 43 to 723; another 75 deaths in Maryland are probably related to COVID-19.

• Of the 3,618 patients ever hospitalized with COVID-19 (including 141 hospitalized in the past 24 hours), 1,425 remain hospitalized — 878 in acute care and 547 in intensive care; 1,108 patients have been released from isolation, including 68 in the past 24 hours.

• The number of negative test results is 68,100; 3,737 of those were reported in the past 24 hours.

April 23 3 p.m.

• Talbot County now has 27 confirmed COVID-19 cases.

• The number of confirmed cases in Maryland rose 962 in the past 24 hours to 15,737. Deaths increased 49 to 680; another 68 deaths in Maryland are probably related to COVID-19.

• Of the 3,477 patients ever hospitalized with COVID-19 (including 152 hospitalized in the past 24 hours), 1,405 remain hospitalized — 890 in acute care and 515 in intensive care; 1,040 patients have been released from isolation, including 59 in the past 24 hours.

• The number of negative test results is 64,363; 2,618 of those were reported in the past 24 hours.

April 22 3 p.m.

• Talbot County cases remain at 26.

• The number of confirmed cases in Maryland rose 582 in the past 24 hours to 14,775. Deaths increased 47 to 631; another 67 deaths in Maryland are probably related to COVID-19.

• Of the 3,325 patients ever hospitalized with COVID-19, 1,432 remain hospitalized — 905 in acute care and 527 in intensive care; 981 patients have been released from isolation, including 51 in the past 24 hours.

• The number of negative test results is 61,754; 2,303 of those were reported in the past 24 hours.

April 21 3 p.m.

• Two more Talbot County residents tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the county’s total to 26.

• The state’s coronavirus website has added new data, including the number of Marylanders currently hospitalized with a breakdown by type of care — acute or intensive.

• The number of confirmed cases in Maryland rose 509 in the past 24 hours to 14,193. Deaths increased 68 to 584; another 68 deaths in Maryland are probably related to COVID-19.

• Of the 3,158 patients ever hospitalized with COVID-19, 1,433 remain hospitalized — 907 in acute care and 526 in intensive care; 930 patients have been released from isolation, including 13 in the past 24 hours.

• The number of negative test results is 59,442; 1,729 of those were reported in the past 24 hours.

April 20 3 p.m.

• The number of cases in Talbot County rose to 24, with eight new cases since Friday. Health officials expect confirmed cases to continue to rise as testing increases in Talbot County and on the Eastern Shore.

• Outbreaks of COVID-19 among workers in the Eastern Shore’s poultry processing facilities are increasing.

• Customers of Nice Farms Creamery in Federalsburg have donated 1,200 gallons of milk that will be
distributed through Talbot County’s food pantries.

• Mental health professionals report an uptick in phone calls requesting help with anxiety.

• The Salvation Army will deliver 100 boxes of groceries to seniors around the county, and Oasis Church will deliver hot meals to those in need on Wednesday and Friday.

• Strains on the local Hispanic community continue as employers are reportedly ordering workers to get tested or not return to work. Others workers have been threatened with prosecution if they fail to get tested.

• The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Maryland increased by 854 in the past 24 hours as the total reached 13,684.

• The number of Marylanders who have died of the novel coronavirus is 516 as 30 more Marylanders died of COVID-19 in the past 24 hours; an additional 66 deaths are probably related to the novel coronavirus.

• The number of those ever hospitalized as result of COVID-19 increased by 128 to 3,014; 3 more patients were released from isolation, bringing the total to 917.

• The number of negative test results is 57,713, an increase of 2,652 in the past 24 hours.

April 19 3 p.m.

• The number of confirmed cases in Maryland increased by 522 in the past 24 hours as the total reached 12,830.

• Talbot County cases are now at 19.

• Another 23 Marylanders died of COVID-19 in the past 24 hours, bringing the total deaths to 486; an additional 62 deaths are probably related to the novel coronavirus.

• The number of those ever hospitalized as result of COVID-19 increased by 129 to 2,886; 143 more patients were released from isolation, bringing the total to 914.

• The number of negative test results is 55,061, an increase of 1,999 in the past 24 hours.

April 18 3 p.m.

• The number of confirmed cases in Maryland increased by 736 in the past 24 hours as the total reached 12,308.

• Talbot County cases remain at 16.

• Another 38 Marylanders died of COVID-19 in the past 24 hours, bringing the total deaths to 463; 71 deaths are probably related to the novel coronavirus.

• The number of those ever hospitalized as result of COVID-19 increased by 145 to 2,757; 35 more patients were released from isolation, bringing the total to 771.

• The number of negative test results is 53,062.

April 17 3 p.m.

• The number of COVID-19 cases in Maryland is 11,572 as 788 new cases were confirmed in the past 24 hours.

• Talbot County now has 16 confirmed cases, according to the county.

• The number of deaths statewide attributed to the novel coronavirus rose by 33 to 425; another 69 deaths are probably related to COVID-19, according to the state’s coronavirus website.

• The number of those ever hospitalized as a result of COVID-19 increased 161 in the last 24 hours to 2,612; the number of patients released from isolation was unchanged at 736. The state reports 50,437 negative test results.

April 16 3 p.m.

• The number of COVID-19 cases in Maryland neared 11,000 as 752 new cases were confirmed in the past 24 hours.

• The number of deaths statewide attributed to the novel coronavirus rose by 43 to 392; another 67 deaths are probably related to COVID-19, according to the state’s coronavirus website.

• The number of those ever hospitalized as a result of COVID-19 increased 220 in the last 24 hours to 2,451; 129 were released from isolation in that period for a total of 736. The state reports 48,059 negative test results.

• Gov. Larry Hogan has ordered residents and visitors to wear masks when in retail stores or using public transportation. Retail stores are now required to have their staff wear masks and practice social distancing amongst staff and customers.

• Long-term care and assisted living facilities continue to see an increase in COVID-19 cases, with 1,833 of the state’s total cases coming from these establishments, as of Wednesday afternoon.

• University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Easton will begin screening all staff for signs of flu-like illness, including temperature checks before they enter the building.

Choptank Community Health System has administered more than 300 COVID-19 tests. “Choptank has been a fantastic source of testing and making sure that cases are well managed,” according to Dr. Fredia Wadley, Talbot County’s health officer.

• About 88% of Talbot County’s Public Schools students are able to participate in online learning activities when they can get access to mobile or drive-up WiFi hotspots. Officials are exploring options for deploying buses for increased access.

April 15 3 p.m.

The number of COVID-19 cases in Maryland topped the 10,000 mark as 560 new cases were confirmed in the past 24 hours.

The number of deaths statewide attributed to the novel coronavirus rose by 47 to 349; another 64 deaths are probably related to COVID-19, according to the state’s coronavirus website.

Of those patients confirmed with COVID-19, 2,231 have been hospitalized at some point and 607 have been released from isolation.

The state reports 45,731 negative test results.

April 14 3 p.m.

• Talbot County only has 13 confirmed COVID-19 cases, according to Dr. Fredia Wadley, the county health officer; the state’s website reports 16 cases here.

• Kent County reported its first death related to COVID-19; the patient was a man in his 70s.

• Maryland reported 536 new COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours, bringing the statewide total to 9,472.

• In the past 24 hours, 40 Marylanders died from COVID-19 for a total of 262 deaths.

• Of the 9,472 confirmed cases in Maryland, 2,122 patients required hospitalization; 607 have been released from isolation.

• The state reports 44,261 negative test results.

April 13 3 p.m.

• Maryland reported 711 new COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours, bringing the statewide total to 8,936.

• In the past 24 hours, 27 Marylanders died from COVID-19 for a total of 262 deaths.

• Talbot County has 16 confirmed COVID-19 cases.

• The World Health Organization added loss of taste and smell as symptoms of a COVID-19 infection.

• COVID-19 testing continues at Chesapeake College this week on Wednesday and Friday.

• Area grocery stores have taken additional measures to implement social distancing plans, winning praise from government and health officials

• The Maryland Department of Health’s COVID-19 web portal keeps a running tab of the number of confirmed cases in the state, including tabs for number of tests administered and reporting by zip code. A zip code must have eight or more cases before a number is registered.

• Of the 8,936 confirmed cases in Maryland, 1,975 patients required hospitalization; 603 have been released from isolation.

• The state reports 42,815 negative test results.

Child Exploitation Cases on Rise

Investigators at the Talbot County Sheriff’s Office are seeing an increase in online child exploitation cases during the past few weeks.

Children are coerced into sending inappropriate pictures to persons posing to be young persons, only to find out they are adults who then threaten to “release” the pictures to others in the community if the victim doesn’t send money or more pictures.

The sheriff’s office is asking parents to educate themselves and their children about the dangers of online communications.

Check out these links to help educate your family:

https://www.missingkids.org/NetSmartz

https://smartsocial.com/

April 12 3 p.m.

• Maryland reported 531 new COVID-19 cases in the past 24 hours, bringing the statewide total to 8,225.

• Health officials continue to focus infection control efforts on long-term care and assisted living facilities, which have accounted for 1,247 of Maryland’s COVID-19 cases.

• Talbot County is holding steady with 13 confirmed COVID-19 cases.

• On Saturday, the Avalon Foundation held a successful CDC-compliant Farmers Market at the Talbot County Business Center (the former Black & Decker plant) on Glebe Road in Easton.

• The Neighborhood Service Center, in partnership with the Milestone Event Center, hosted a drive-thru Easter basket giveaway on Saturday afternoon. Approximately 350 Talbot County children had a Happy Easter thanks to this effort.

April 11 3 p.m.

• In the past 24 hours, Maryland reported 721 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total number to 7,694. A total of 206 Marylanders have died, including 35 in the last 24 hours.

• Talbot County has 13 confirmed cases.

• Some 300 people are currently hospitalized with the COVID-19 virus, which increases the total to 1,709 hospitalized since the outbreak began; 431 patients have been released from isolation.

• Shore Regional Health and county health officers continue to plan for surge capacity at Chesapeake College.

• Efforts to feed the community continue. This week, Meals on Wheels delivered more than 840 meals to seniors, and Talbot County Public Schools distributed 8,958 meals and CarePacks 2,986 to students.

• Nice Farms Creamery, a family-operated dairy in Federalsburg, is accepting donations and will supply fresh milk to Talbot County food pantries.

• Governor Larry Hogan announced yesterday that the Maryland Department of Labor will double staff at claims centers and extend call hours in response to the increase in the number of claims caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Maryland reports 39,544 negative test results.

April 10 3 p.m.

• Maryland reports 783 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the total to 6,968. A total of 171 people have died, including 30 in the last 24 hours.

• Talbot County has 13 confirmed cases.

• Plans are underway to use a portion of Chesapeake College as an alternate site for caring for COVID- 19 patients.

• If you know someone who needs assistance getting food, call the Food Resource Helpline at 410-770-5155. The line is manned 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday.

• Police continue to investigate complaints on essential businesses that are operating in unsafe ways.

• Hospitalizations: 1,413 ever hospitalized, including 65 in the last 24 hours.

• Released From Isolation: 397, including 21 in the last 24 hours.

• Number of negative test results: 37,480.

April 9 3 p.m.

Confirmed COVID-19 cases in Maryland rose 656 to 6,185, a nearly 12 percent increase; deaths rose 14 to 138, according to the state’s coronavirus website.

An additional 138 Marylanders were hospitalized as a result of the novel coronavirus, while 11 more were released from isolation.

The state reports more than 35,000 negative test results.

April 8 3 p.m.

• The surge in numbers today was caused by a lag in receiving test results from private labs and is not representative of a true daily increase, according to Dr. Fredia Wadley, Talbot County Health Officer.

• The mobile testing site at Chesapeake College will continue to operate today and into next week as long as testing supplies last. The site will not be open on Good Friday, April 10.

• Brookletts Place Talbot County Senior Center will host a pop up food pantry from 10 a.m. to noon Friday, April 10.

Avalon Farmers Market Reimagined, Relocated and CDC Compliant

With the Easton Farmers Market scheduled to open on April 11 in downtown Easton, the Avalon Foundation, which coordinates the market, was faced with how to provide this popular service to the community without causing a health threat to the general public.

If all goes as planned, beginning this Saturday, April 11, the farmers market will be held from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the large parking lot behind the Talbot County Business Center (formerly the Black & Decker plant) on Glebe Road. Participants will be able to drive up to the various vendors, make their selections, pay, and receive their orders through their vehicle windows or trunks with minimal contact with vendors.

April 8 10:30 a.m.

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Maryland is 5,529, as another 1,158 patients tested positive, a 26.4% increase since Tuesday morning’s tally, according to the state’s coronavirus website. It was the biggest one-day jump in cases in the state since the pandemic began. (See graph below)

Another 21 Marylanders died from the novel coronavirus, bringing the state’s death toll to 124.

Of those infected with the virus, 1,210 required hospitalization and 365 have been released from isolation.

Nearly 33,000 Marylanders have now tested negative for COVID-19.

Businesses Help Feed Essential Workers

Talbot County businesses are supporting the community by feeding their own hospitality workers who are currently dislocated as well as front line workers who are responding to the COVID-19 crisis every day. 

• Family Meal for hospitality workers

• Feed the Front Lines Maryland Eastern Shore —support local businesses supporting essential workers

• Talbot County Sheriff’s Office and the Talbot County Health Department have released enforcement guidelines and retail notifications regarding safe and essential practices.

April 7 3 p.m.

During a Tuesday press conference, Gov. Larry Hogan highlighted an executive order issued Sunday that allows county health officers to shut down or order modifications to the operations of any businesses that are operating in an unsafe manner during the COVID-19 state of emergency.

Under the order, an authorized health official (a county health officer or Baltimore City’s health commissioner) is given the authority to enforce social distancing guidelines from the CDC or the state health department.

The order states:

If an Authorized Health Official determines that a business, organization, establishment, facility, or construction site in his/her political subdivision (an “Unsafe Facility”) is unable or unwilling to operate in a manner that does not pose an unreasonable risk of exacerbating the spread of COVID-19 (including, without limitation, as a result of non-compliance with Social Distancing Guidance), the Authorized Health Official is hereby authorized and directed to issue such orders as may be necessary to:

a. require the Unsafe Facility to modify its operations to comply with Social Distancing Guidance; or

b. designate all or part of the Unsafe Facility as a zone in which the occupancy and use of buildings may be controlled, and prohibit or limit the movement of individuals and/or vehicles into, in, or from the Unsafe Facility, including without limitation, by closing the Unsafe Facility.

Orders issued by an Authorized Health Official pursuant to (the) … above shall be binding upon and enforceable against the Unsafe Facility, even if the Unsafe Facility would otherwise be permitted to remain open (to any degree) under the Order of the Governor of the State of Maryland Number 20-03-30-01, dated March 30, 2020, entitled “Amending and Restating the Order of March 23, 2020, Prohibiting Large Gatherings and Events and Closing Senior Centers, and All Non-Essential Businesses and Other Establishments, and Additionally Requiring All Persons to Stay Home”, as it may be amended or restated from time to time.

Any law enforcement officer in the state may enforce the order and any order issued by a county health officer.

A person who knowingly and willfully violates the governor’s executive order, or any order issued by a county health officer, is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction may be imprisoned for up to one year and/or fined up $5,000.

April 7 10:30 a.m.

The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Maryland is 4,371, an 8 percent increase over the previous day; the number of deaths rose to 103.

Of those confirmed cases, 1,106 were hospitalized and 288 patients have been released from isolation.

More than 27,000 state residents have tested negative for the novel coronavirus.

On the Mid-Shore, Caroline County had five additional positive tests, Kent County had 3, and Dorchester County had 1.

Easton Urges Shoppers to Follow COVID-19 Precautions

Among reports of entire families out shopping at grocery stores and customers congregating in aisles talking with friends, Easton officials are urging local residents to follow precautions against COVID-19, including social distancing.

No more than two family members should go out on shopping trips and shoppers should stay at least six feet away from one another, officials said. Shoppers who do not follow safety precautions are putting themselves, their families, and other shoppers at risk.

April 6 3 p.m.

More than 10,000 Americans have died from COVID-19, according to the Johns Hopkins Coronavirus Research Center.

Nearly a third of those deaths were in New York City and the state of New York has had nearly half of the nation’s deaths from the novel coronavirus.

The United States has 347,003 confirmed cases of which 18,953 have recovered; a little more than 168,000 of the nation’s confirmed cases are in the states of New York and New Jersey.

Hospitals Face Challenges

A report from the inspector general’s office at the U.S. health department found that hospitals are dealing with numerous challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic:

Those challenges include:

• Severe Shortages of Testing Supplies and Extended Waits for Results

• Widespread Shortages of PPE

• Difficulty Maintaining Adequate Staffing and Supporting Staff

• Difficulty Maintaining and Expanding Hospital Capacity to Treat Patients

• Shortages of Critical Supplies, Materials, and Logistic Support

• Anticipated Shortages of Ventilators

• Increased Costs and Decreased Revenue

• Changing and Sometimes Inconsistent Guidance

Key Points for Talbot County

• The University of Maryland Shore Regional Medical Center at Easton now requires everyone entering the building to wear a protective facemask.

• Volunteers and staff distributed 1,700 iPads to students last Thursday and Friday as Talbot County Public Schools launched its expanded distance-learning model.

• The amount of groceries distributed by the county’s food pantries rose by 20% last week.

• The Talbot County Health Department, in partnership with the YMCA of the Chesapeake, continues to provide shelter to the children of essential workers.

• Anyone who believes they have been exposed to a patient infected with the COVID-19 virus should call the Talbot County Health Department at (410) 819-5600. An Infectious Control Nurse is on call 24 hours a day.

Law Enforcement Officials Will Enforce Governor’s Orders

The beautiful spring weather has Talbot County residents itching to be out and about, but law enforcement officials remind us that the governor’s stay-at-home order is still in effect, and citizens are required by law to comply with this directive.

“Certain businesses are allowed to remain open because they are essential, but that doesn’t mean people should be flooding these businesses for the sake of getting out of the house,” says Easton Police Chief David Spencer. “Only get what you need and try to minimize the exposure to you and your family.”

Though the majority of businesses have been willing to work with area police departments, some residents violated the spirt of the governor’s executive order by visiting essential businesses with their families over the weekend.

“The governor has limited travel to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus and to save lives,” Chief Spencer adds. “If you don’t have to travel, please stay home.”

Last week, The Easton Police Department issued written guidance on the enforcement of the governor’s orders in an effort to educate the public. Other local law enforcement officials are following similar guidelines.

• Police officers will not make traffic stops simply to ask drivers where they are going or to determine if their travel is essential.

• If police officers who are performing their regular duties discover information indicating that a person is engaging in non-essential travel, enforcement action can be taken.

• Residents may travel to care for family members, friends, pets, and livestock. Citizens are also permitted to transport family, friends, pets, or livestock for essential health and safety activities.

•The order allows for travel to and from an educational institution to receive meals or instructional materials for
distance learning.

• While it is not necessary for drivers in Maryland to have documentation about the purpose of travel, having such documentation may help resolve questions.

• Enforcement action will continue to be initiated when police officers observe a business or group of more than 10 people gather in violation of the governor’s executive order.

• Outdoor exercise activities are permitted when done in accordance with social distancing guidelines issued by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and when limited to gatherings of 10 people or less. Such activities may not be done at a park that has been closed by state or local government.

• A person who knowingly and willfully violates the order is subject to imprisonment not exceeding one year or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both upon a guilty conviction.

“I’m really encouraged by the way the citizens of Talbot County have rallied to obey the governor’s order,” says Talbot County Sheriff Joe Gamble. “We’ve had very few issues with people failing to comply.”

The news that Talbot County has had a death related to COVID-19 stunned the community over the weekend, but health officials warn that the number of cases likely will continue to grow over the coming weeks.

“It is just beginning to hit everyone that the danger is real,” says Dr. Fredia Wadley, Talbot County Health Officer. “Over the next two or three weeks, we are going to be tested even further. Observing the guidelines for social distancing and hand washing has never been more important than it is now. It’s our best defense against this virus.”

“It is critically important that people adhere to social distancing now,” states Clay Stamp, Director of Emergency Services. In the past 24 hours, the state of Maryland has averaged one death per hour. This is not a drill!”

Talbot County Public Schools

“We are back to school for closing out the third quarter and starting the fourth quarter. We had a new ‘Opening Day’ and I have been so impressed with our educators’ commitment to our students,” said Dr. Kelly Griffith, Superintendent. “We have reached out to every student, which we believe is so very important. We distributed approximately 1,750 iPads last Thursday and Friday, and we were so appreciative of the Easton Police Department for their support.”

Meal Distribution this week will be 9 to 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 7, and Friday, April 10, at each school site (except EHS).

TCPS will observe spring break this week with all schools and offices closed Thursday, April 9, through Monday, April 13.

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: https://www.talbotdes.org/default.asp

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

April 6 10:30 a.m.

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Maryland rose by 436 patients to 4,045; Talbot County has one additional case for a total of 8.

In the last 24 hours, according to the state coronavirus website, Maryland also reports:

• 24 deaths for a total of 91

• 844 negative test results, for a total of  25,572

• 123 new hospitalizations; 1,059 Marylanders have been hospitalized at some point for COVID-19

• 25 patients released from isolation, bringing the total to 184

Processing of Paper Income Tax Returns to Temporarily Stop on April 15 Due to COVID-19

Comptroller Peter Franchot today urged Maryland taxpayers seeking refunds to file electronically as soon as possible and announced that the agency will temporarily stop processing paper tax returns on April 15, in an effort to keep essential employees safe amid the spread of COVID-19.

“We remain committed to getting refunds into taxpayers’ bank accounts during this economic crisis. However, we must balance that with our commitment to protecting the health of those dedicated essential employees who have continued reporting to work to process returns and distribute refunds in a timely manner,” Franchot said.

Most taxpayers receiving refunds have already filed and the number of those anticipating refunds who have yet to do so and plan to file via paper returns is very low.

The deadline for individuals and businesses to file and pay state income taxes was previously extended until July 15.

To date, the number of both paper and electronic tax returns filed during the 2020 tax year has decreased from last year’s totals at the same time period — a drop of 27 percent in paper returns and 7.5 percent in electronic filings.

April 5 3 p.m.

Gov. Larry Hogan today enacted an emergency order to protect residents and staff at Maryland nursing home facilities, and bolster the state’s mitigation and suppression efforts amid outbreaks of COVID-19.

Effective immediately, new directives will require facilities to direct all staff who interact with residents to wear personal protective equipment, create separate observation and isolation areas for residents, and expedite all testing through the Maryland State Public Health Laboratory.

“As we have been saying for several weeks, older Marylanders and those with underlying health conditions are more vulnerable and at a significantly higher risk of contracting, getting more severely ill, and dying from this disease,” said Hogan. “Of major concern is that we currently have cases or clusters of cases at 81 nursing homes and long-term care facilities across the state. Our highest priority is keeping Marylanders safe, and we will use every tool at our disposal to protect the most vulnerable among us.”

April 5 10:30 a.m.

CDC Recommends the Use of Cloth Face Coverings in Public

CDC continues to study the spread and effects of the novel coronavirus across the United States. We now know from recent studies that a significant portion of individuals with coronavirus lack symptoms (“asymptomatic”) and that even those who eventually develop symptoms (“pre-symptomatic”) can transmit the virus to others before showing symptoms.

This means that the virus can spread between people interacting in close proximity — for example, speaking, coughing, or sneezing — even if those people are not exhibiting symptoms.

In light of this new evidence, CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies) especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.

It is critical to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social distancing remains important to slowing the spread of the virus. CDC is additionally advising the use of simple cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others. Cloth face coverings fashioned from household items or made at home from common materials at low cost can be used as an additional, voluntary public health measure.

The cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders, as recommended by current CDC guidance.

April 4 3 p.m.

Talbot County Announces First COVID-19 Death

Talbot County has seven confirmed COVID-19 cases, but now has experienced its first fatality, bringing the number of deaths in Maryland to 53.

“This is very significant for our community,” said Dr. Fredia Wadley, health officer for Talbot County. “This individual was in her 40s with significant co-morbidities. Fortunately, the deceased had no contact with her co-workers prior to her symptomatic period because of her chronic conditions, and her family members have been isolated since the hospitalization and are being monitored for symptoms.”

“We are all saddened to hear this news, and our prayers go out to this person’s family and friends,” said Talbot County Council President Corey Pack. “I call on the people of Talbot County to continue to support one another during this difficult time.”

April 4 10:30 a.m.

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Maryland is at 3,125 as an additional 367 state residents tested positive. The death toll from the novel coronavirus rose by 11 to 53.

Of the 3,125 patients, 821 were hospitalized at one point and 159 have been released from isolation, according to the state’s coronavirus website.

The state has reported 22,485 negative test results.

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

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.

The governor 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.

Hogan also issued a proclamation declaring a statewide moment of prayer and reflection at noon on Sunday, April 5.

April 3 3 p.m.

Kent, Other Counties Ready for Potential Patient Surge

As the COVID-19 situation progresses, plans are currently being made to respond to the potential surge of patients within Kent County and across the Mid-Shore, the Kent County Office of Emergency Services said in a press release.

Experts from our local health departments, hospitals, emergency managers and state agencies have been working together to identify locations that could potentially serve as sites to help handle a surge in patient care needs.

There are many elements that need to be factored into possible locations. At present, these plans are still taking shape and no sites have been identified definitively.

We will be sure to make the community aware of these plans once they are in place. For questions, please call Kent County Office of Emergency Services at 443-282-6480.

April 3 10:30 a.m.

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Maryland rose to 2,758 as an additional 427 residents tested positive. Six more Marylanders died from the virus; the state now has had 42 deaths from COVID-19.

Of the 2,758 cases, 664 were hospitalized at some point for treatment; 159 patients have been released from isolation, according to the state’s coronavirus website. Nearly 21,000 tests have come back negative.

April 2 3 p.m.

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.

April 2 10:30 a.m.

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

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.

First COVID-19 Related Death in Cecil County

Cecil County has reported its first COVID-19 related death. The patient was a man in his 80s from the Elkton area who had underlying medical conditions. He passed away on March 31, 2020.

Dorchester County Health Department Announces Second Case of COVID-19

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.

April 1 3 p.m.

Talbot County has a fourth confirmed case, according to the county’s COVID-19 website.

Governor Hogan Enacts Emergency Orders to Expand Telehealth, Upgrade Designation of Disabilities Services Personnel

Gov. Larry Hogan today issued two emergency orders to further support Marylanders during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the expansion of telehealth services and the designation of disabilities services personnel as health care providers.

“As our state faces new and unprecedented challenges, we need to be adaptive, innovative, and inclusive in our response,” Hogan said in a press release. “The orders I have issued today help ensure that Marylanders of all ages and abilities can continue receiving essential services throughout this public health crisis.”

Earlier today, Maryland reported 1,985 confirmed cases of COVID-19 — an increase of 325 new cases, which is the largest one-day increase to date. The Maryland Department of Health announced 13 additional deaths as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing the state’s total to 31 deaths. There are now more than 4,000 COVID-19 cases in the National Capital Region.

•  Hogan issued an executive order that amends the previous March 20 order regarding telehealth by expanding these services beyond audio-only methods. With this order, healthcare providers may engage in asynchronous telehealth services, such as email, provided that any and all telehealth practices are clinically appropriate, properly documented, and otherwise comply with proper standards of care. These telehealth services are also eligible for reimbursement by Medicaid.

• Hogan issued an executive order ensuring that workers who provide important support services to the disabled will be treated as health care providers under the recently-enacted Families First Coronavirus Response Act. This order officially recognizes the essential function of services for the disabled—including in-home care, interpreting services, social services, and support systems for substance abuse and mental illness—and designates those who provide these services as essential health care providers.

April 1 10:30 a.m.

• Dorchester County has reported its first confirmed case of COVID-19 and the number of cases statewide increased by 325 to 1,985, a nearly 20 percent increase from Tuesday’s tally.

• Queen Anne’s County saw its number of confirmed cases go from 4 to 7.

• Reported deaths from COVID-19 in Maryland rose from 18 to 31.

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

Short-term rentals and bed and breakfasts in Talbot County may not take any new guests after March 31 and may not make new reservations.

Guests already staying in Talbot County may remain until the end of their current booking and may extend their stay as long as they comply with local and state emergency orders, including Gov. Hogan’s stay-at-home order and limits on gatherings. Anyone who has come from another state also should self-quarantine for 14 days or until the end of their stay.

The amended emergency order allows B&Bs and short-term rentals to accept guests who are essential personnel, such as doctors, nurses, and first responders.

March 31 3 p.m.

• In the past 24 hours, Maryland added 247 new COVID-19 cases for a total of 1,660 cases and 18 deaths.

• Only 2% of the cases are on Maryland’s Eastern Shore. Talbot County has three confirmed cases.

• St. Michaels will host a free, drive-thru Farmers Market in the public parking lot behind Pemberton’s Pharmacy
today from 3-5 p.m. The St. Michaels Community Center will deliver to those without transportation.

• Government offices in the towns and county have further limited hours and personnel. Employees continue to
answer emails and phone calls.

• MEMA guidelines recommend that workers at essential businesses carry letters from their employers when
traveling.

• Some 45 medical volunteers will report to duty at the University of Maryland Shore Medical Center at Easton thanks to Maryland Responds.

March 31 10:30 a.m.

Key points

• Easton Memorial Hospital and University of Maryland Shore Regional Health has an urgent need for volunteers.
Those with medical experience may apply at talbotcovid19.org.

• Hospitals are beginning to see a surge in the number of patients admitted with COVID-19 disease.

• Testing will continue today and tomorrow at the mobile testing center at Chesapeake College in Wye Mills.
Patients MUST have orders from a healthcare provider.

• Employers should focus on protecting workers and their families by following recommendations for minimal
staffing, social distancing, and hand washing.

March 30 3 p.m.

Gov. Hogan Issues Stay-At-Home Order

Gov. Hogan has issued an executive order requiring all Marylanders to stay at home. The order goes into effect at 8 p.m. Monday.

“No Maryland resident should be leaving their home unless it is for an essential job or for an essential reason, such as obtaining food or medicine, seeking urgent medical attention, or for other necessary purposes,” Hogan said Monday.

“This is a deadly public health crisis. We are no longer asking or suggesting that Marylanders stay home, we are directing them to do so,” he said. “Today’s order states that any person who knowingly and willfully violates the order is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction is subject to imprisonment not to exceed one year or a fine not exceeding $5,000 or both.”

“People are not locked in their homes; we’re just telling people that they need to stay in their homes except for essential and necessary things,” Hogan said. “People have to go out and get the food they need, to get prescriptions, you should be able to get outside for your own physical and mental well-being and go for a walk and take your dog for a walk. You should not be going out with a crowd of a hundred people congregating in a park somewhere.

“If your faucets … if your plumbing is leaking all over your house and you have to go out and do something about fixing that that’s probably a necessary function but you shouldn’t be out shopping for new carpets or cabinets or out buying furniture or clothing…. You should be buying the necessary things you need to survive,” he said.

March 30 10:30 a.m.

Maryland has 1,413 confirmed cases of COVID-19 and 15 patients have died; there have been 13,316 negative test results.

There have been four confirmed cases each in Talbot, Queen Anne’s and Caroline counties; Kent County has 3, according to the state’s coronavirus website.

Dorchester and Allegany remain the only counties in Maryland without a confirmed case.

Md. Park Service Closes Beaches, Playgrounds

We have temporarily closed to the public all areas where people may congregate, including all visitor centers, all beaches, busy trails, all administrative buildings, all concessions, some viewing areas, most fishing piers, all shelters, all playgrounds, as well as all nature/interpretive centers we manage.

Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park, Sandy Point State Park, and Assateague State Park are closed; the boat launches at Sandy Point and Assateague are open.

March 29 9 a.m.

COVID-19 Death Toll In Maryland Doubles, Outbreak at Carroll County Nursing Home

State officials Saturday night, in coordination with the Carroll County Health Department, announced an outbreak of COVID-19 at Pleasant View Nursing Home in Mount Airy, where a total of 66 residents have tested positive, with 11 currently hospitalized.

Earlier Saturday evening, the Maryland Department of Health announced five additional deaths as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, bringing the state’s total to 10 deaths.

Governor Larry Hogan issued the following update to Marylanders:

“It took nearly three weeks for the National Capital Region to go from 0 to 1,000 cases of COVID-19. It took three days for the region to go from 1,000 to 2,000 cases in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. This is a rapidly evolving and escalating emergency which is now surrounding the nation’s capital.

“The number of deaths in our state as a result of COVID-19 has doubled. We have lost 10 of our fellow Marylanders, and we mourn each and every one of them.

“Tonight, Maryland has experienced a tragic coronavirus outbreak at Pleasant View Nursing Home in Mount Airy. Multiple state agencies are on the scene and working closely with the local health department and the facility as they take urgent steps to protect additional residents and staff who may have been exposed.

“I want to thank all of the doctors, nurses, and first responders all across our state who are working around the clock to respond to this pandemic.

“As we have been warning for weeks, older Marylanders and those with underlying health conditions are more vulnerable and at a significantly higher risk of contracting this disease.

“We continue to call for Marylanders to stay at home, except for essential reasons, in order to help stop the spread of this virus.

“We are leveraging the full arsenal of public health and government, but defeating this invisible enemy will require a unity of effort and spirit like nothing we have ever faced.”

March 28 3 p.m.

Key Points for March 28

• In the past 24 hours, Maryland added 218 new cases, increasing the total number to 992 in the state of
Maryland. Two of the new cases are in Talbot County.

• Officials are preparing for a sharp increase daily for the next two weeks.

• Home daycare providers can be licensed to provide shelter to the children of essential personnel. The Maryland
State Department of Education website lists those already approved.

• Daycare centers not providing services to essential personnel have been ordered to close, effective March 27.

• Union Baptist Church at 233 Glenwood Avenue in Easton will host a drive-thru food distribution beginning at 9 a.m. Tuesday.

COVID-19 Cases Continue to Rise, Two Test Positive in Talbot County

On Saturday, Health Officer Dr. Fredia Wadley reported two new cases of COVID-19 in Talbot County, neither of whom has been hospitalized.

One is an individual in their 70s who has visited New York and is suspected of being infected there. The second is an individual in their late 20s with no known contact source or travel history.

The contacts of both individuals were notified late Friday afternoon and have been ordered to quarantine themselves and report any symptoms.

March 28 10:30 a.m.

The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Maryland neared 1,000 and a second case was confirmed in Talbot County, according to the state’s coronavirus website.

Maryland reports that 226 patients were hospitalized at some point for COVID-19 and 32 have been released from isolation.

The state also has had 11,516 negative test results.

There are now two cases each in Kent and Talbot, and one case each in Caroline and Queen Anne’s counties.

Cecil County has 13 confirmed cases, Wicomico 6, Worcester 2 and Somerset 1.

March 27 3 p.m.

Talbot urges lodging businesses to suspend operations

Talbot County officials are urging short-term rentals, B&Bs, and hotels in the county to suspend all future rental operations during the state of emergency as concerns mount about travelers spreading COVID-19.

Of particular concern are people coming from New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, where the number of cases have skyrocketed in recent days.

The Talbot County Council unanimously agreed Thursday afternoon to send a letter to all short-term rental license holders and all hotels and bed and breakfasts urging them to immediately suspend all future rental operations.

Key Points for March 27

• Maryland counted 174 new COVID-19 cases in the last 24 hours, totaling 774; nine new cases were on the
Eastern Shore. No new positives in Talbot County.

• All childcare providers have been ordered to close by 5 p.m. Friday, March 27.

• The Talbot County Health Department is working with the YMCA of the Chesapeake to provide sheltering for the
children of essential workers.

• The Talbot County Department of Social Services personnel will be teleworking beginning Monday; services will
continue.

• Police are awaiting a comprehensive list of businesses that are required to be closed.

• Please call 410-770-5515 if you or someone you know needs assistance getting food. This phone is operated
Monday through Friday 8 AM to 5 PM.

March 27 10:30 a.m.

Maryland saw another jump in confirmed COVID-19 cases between Thursday and Friday morning, with the total increasing from 580 to 774, according to the state’s coronavirus website.

Five Marylanders have now died as a result of the virus, which has seen 173 patients hospitalized at some point and 25 released from isolation.

March 26 3 p.m.

Maryland Reports 157 New COVID-19 Cases

The State of Maryland now has 580 confirmed cases of COVID-19 — an increase of 157 new cases, which is by far the largest one-day increase to date. There are more than 1,200 confirmed cases in the National Capital Region — in Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia.

Gov. Larry Hogan today issued the following statement:

“We are only at the beginning of this crisis, in our state, in the National Capital Region, and in America. As I have repeatedly stressed, we should continue to expect the number of cases to dramatically and rapidly rise.

“Today, we are also seeing an unprecedented increase in the number of Marylanders filing for unemployment. We are going to do everything we can to help people and small businesses get back on their feet.

“This battle is going to be much harder, take much longer, and be much worse than almost anyone comprehends. We have never faced anything like this ever before, and I continue to urge the people of our state to stay in place at home and stay safe.

“I want Marylanders to know that if we continue to lead and work together—if we rely on and help each other—together we will get through this crisis.”

Talbot County key points for today

• COVID-19 cases continue to surge, with 157 new cases confirmed in Maryland. Testing capabilities are still
limited.

• Food is available for those in need. A total of 128 families received food boxes at Scott’s United Methodist
Church today.

• Local businesses Chesapeake Landing and Paris Foods have sent trucks to transport the more than 11,000
pounds of chicken donated to Talbot County food banks by Mountaire Farms.

• A complete list of local food banks can be found at talbotcovid19.org.

• The Town of St. Michaels donated cooler bags for senior citizens who are having meals delivered to their homes.

• Social ills are expected to rise as the COVID-19 crisis continues, including burglaries, domestic violence, and
sexual assault. Local agencies are prepared to respond.

• County staff have moved to minimal staffing; employees can be reached by e-mail or telephone.

• Chesapeake Multicultural Resource Center is translating COVID-19 information and working to connect with the
immigrant community.

Go to https://talbotcovid19.org and click “Current News” for the latest updates from Talbot County.

March 26 10 a.m.

Talbot readies for online learning

Talbot teachers are readying to teach students remotely as Maryland extends its school closures until at least April 24 to help limit the spread of COVID-19.

State officials initially had ordered schools closed for two weeks beginning March 16; that closure was extended Wednesday until April 24 with the possibility of additional extensions depending on the status of the pandemic.

The Talbot County Board of Education heard an update on the school system’s response during its regular Wednesday night meeting, held by video conference to maintain social distancing.

Key points

• A record 3.3 million people applied for unemployment

• Senate OKs $2 trillion economic stimulus bill; measure goes to House

March 25 3 p.m.

Key Points for March 25

• Cases of COVID-19 are on the rise in Maryland, with two new cases on the Eastern Shore.

• Mountaire Farms has donated hundreds of pounds of chicken to feed Talbot County residents.

• Local businesses join the ranks of those helping with relief efforts for vulnerable populations.

• Talbot County Public Schools remain closed, but are making plans for continuity of learning if the crisis
continues.

• Easton Utilities and the Town of Easton have set up free drive-up hotspots around town for those who don’t
have access to internet — Idlewild Park, Talbottown Shopping Center, and Moton Park.

For more information, go to https://talbotcovid19.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Talbot_County_COVID-19_Update_3.25.20.pdf

Schools closed through April 24

Maryland schools will remain closed for an additional four weeks, through April 24, State Superintendent of Schools Karen B. Salmon announced on Wednesday.

Speaking at a State House news conference, Salmon said the decision followed “lengthy discussions with health experts from around the state.”

“We do not make this decision lightly,” she said, “however with the challenges facing the state and our country, we have a responsibility to ensure the health and safety of our school communities and the community at large.”

Salmon said it’s too soon to know whether schools will be able to reopen on April 27, the following Monday.

Gov. Lawrence J. Hogan Jr. (R) said he supported the decision to extend the closure. He characterized the notion of reopening in four weeks as “aspirational,” depending on the progress of fighting the COVID-19 outbreak in the state.

Two weeks ago the state ordered schools to shut down, and switch to remote learning, through March 27.

That decision sent local systems scrambling to set up remote learning, with some systems having the resources and personnel to move more quickly than others.

The decision to keep schools closed another four weeks came one day after the Maryland State Board of Education voted to keep Salmon on the job indefinitely. She had announced plans to retire on June 30.

By Bruce DePuyt/Maryland Matters

March 25 9 a.m.

Kent County reports first confirmed case of COVID-19

Health officials in conjunction with the Kent County Commissioners announced the first confirmed case of COVID-19 in Kent County. The male individual, in his 20s, traveled to places where other COVID-19 cases have been confirmed.

Testing occurred on March 16, 2020 and the individual is now at home recovering. Since testing, this person has remained in self-isolation and reports an almost full recovery.

William Webb, Kent County Health Officer reports that, “A contact tracing investigation is underway to determine exposure within the County, and we are working with the Maryland Department of Health to take the appropriate precautions.”

This individual is not a member of the Washington College community.

COVID-19 is thought to be able to spread like the cold or flu through coughing and sneezing, which creates respiratory droplets, close personal contact such as touching or shaking hands, or touching an object or surface with the virus on it. Symptoms can include fever, cough and shortness of breath.

Call your healthcare provider if you are experiencing symptoms.

Visit https://coronavirus.maryland.gov or www.cdc.gov, or call 2-1-1 (24/7) for general COVID-19 information or the Kent County Health Department at 410-778-1350 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

March 24 3 p.m.

Maryland Department of Health Announces Fourth Coronavirus Death

The Maryland Department of Health today announced the state’s fourth death as a result of COVID-19: a Prince George’s County resident in his 60s who suffered from underlying medical conditions.

Information and resources regarding COVID-19 are available at coronavirus.maryland.gov.

For 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: https://www.talbotdes.org/default.asp

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

March 24 10 a.m.

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in Maryland jumped again, hitting 349, according to the state health department. There remain three cases on the Mid-Shore.

President Donald Trump will extend the Oct. 1 deadline for REAL ID, one of the top priorities for the nation’s governors as many states, including Maryland, have closed motor vehicle administration offices to protect the public and staffers.

“We are pleased that the federal administration has readily agreed to the governors’ request to extend the REAL ID deadline. This will help contribute to our efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19 …,” Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan said in a statement Monday night. Hogan is chairman of the National Governors Association.

Virginia closed all schools for the remainder of the academic year.

March 23 3 p.m.

Non-Essential Businesses Ordered to Close, Relief for Businesses on the Horizon

Gov. Larry Hogan issued an executive order closing all non-essential businesses effective at 5 p.m. Monday, March 23. At the same time, he announced a relief package designed to help businesses and expanded benefits for workers who have been adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are not issuing or ordering a shelter-in-place directive or forcing people to stay home,” Hogan said. “However, we are telling all Marylanders to follow all of the directives we’ve already issued and to follow state law against crowds of more than 10 people.

“And we are telling you, unless you have an essential reason to leave your house, then you should stay in your homes.

“Today’s actions of closing non-essential businesses are absolutely necessary to protect the health of Marylanders and to save lives,” the governor said. “This is an exceptionally challenging time for Marylanders and for all Americans and that includes those who are out of work and our small business community.

“Our first priority is saving the lives of thousands of Marylanders, and while we are fighting this unprecedented worldwide pandemic, at the same time we’re also facing another huge battle against the potential of tremendous economic harm. And we must tackle both of these problems aggressively and simultaneously. Both of these battles are going to take all of us at the federal, state and local levels and the private sector rising to this challenge and working together.

In addition to a $50 million grant program that helps businesses with operating expenses, the Maryland Department of Commerce is also administering a $75 million emergency relief loan fund. An incentive fund for manufacturers willing to produce personal protective equipment was also announced.

Unlike many states, Maryland allows workers to apply for unemployment benefits immediately. The Maryland Department of Labor is also accepting applications for the COVID-19 Layoff Aversion Fund that provides funds to help businesses with 500 or fewer employees.

“We commend the governor for taking this action,” said Talbot County Council President Corey Pack. “As Gov. Hogan said, this is a battle we are fighting on two fronts. Our businesses are suffering, but we must first mobilize to save lives. The extraordinary measures the governor announced will both protect citizens and help the county’s businesses.”

Stemming the flow of the COVID-19 virus is critical, agrees County Health Officer Dr. Fredia Wadley. “I implore people to stay home, as the governor has instructed.

“We have emphasized the threat of COVID-19 to our seniors, people with chronic conditions, and people with weakened immune systems, but young people can get a severe infection too,” Wadley said. “More importantly, they could be increasing the spread of the virus and endangering the health and lives of people they love.”

As more businesses send workers home, the Talbot County community continues to work together to mitigate the effects of the pandemic on local citizens. “We at the Emergency Operations Center are working every day to meet the needs of this community, especially our most vulnerable populations,” said Director of Emergency Services Clay Stamp. “It’s important that we provide a consistent, concise message about what is taking place here in Talbot County.”

“With regard to the opening and closing of businesses, we will work with the Governor’s office to bring more clarity to this issue.” Stamp said. “In the meantime, we recommend that business owners refer to the Governor’s Executive Order for direction. Remember, it is still critically important that we continue to adhere to the Governor’s directive to practice social distancing and avoid gatherings of 10 or more people, even if a business remains open.”

To read the Governor’s Executive Orders: https://governor.maryland.gov/category/executive-orders/

For information on the business programs, visit businessexpress.maryland.gov or https://govstatus.egov.com/md-coronavirus-business

Advice from the Maryland Department of Labor: https://www.dllr.state.md.us/

Trappe cancels town meetings, closes office to essential staff only

• Effective 8 a.m. Tuesday, March 24, only essential staff will be available on a limited basis to ensure all of our staff’s health and safety. Please call the office at 410-443-0087 and if your call is not answered please leave a message for Town Administrator, Erin Braband, and it will be returned as soon as possible. You may also send an email to [email protected]. Email is the preferred communication.

• All town meetings have been cancelled and if a need arises for the town council to meet, the meeting will be held by conference call. The information and phone number for this call and agenda will be posted on our Facebook page and website at least 24 hours in advance. www.trappemd.net.

• Water bill payments may only be made by cash, money order or check and may be mailed to the town or placed through the mail slot in the front door of the town office. We will be unable to accept credit cards until further notice. All late fees will be waived while we are under a State of Emergency.

• Water and sewer billing will be done by estimated billing this month due to limited staffing. All accounts will be adjusted accordingly next month when the water meters are physically read.

March 23 9 a.m.

Talbot County Public Schools

Free meals will be distributed for children ages 2 through 18 at the following locations from 9 to 11 a.m.: Easton Middle, Easton Elementary-Dobson, the corner of Dover and Aurora Streets in Easton, the Neighborhood Service Center, Pippin Farm, St. Michaels Middle High, St. Michaels Police Dept., Chapel District Elementary, White Marsh Elementary, Tilghman Elementary, and Unionville Church. This will include breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack. These are drive-by/pick-up sites outdoors.

If families are unable to get to one of the sites to pick up meals please use this link to sign up for delivery: https://tcpsforms.org/TCPS/view.php?id=439535 (Please note we cannot guarantee that delivery will be available). We are in the process of collecting addresses of those in need of the meals so we can plan bus routes for meal delivery in the future if needed. You may also email Emily Moody at [email protected] to set up a CarePacks delivery on Fridays.

A page has been added to the TCPS website where information is posted for parents such as educational enrichment materials, updated information about COVID-19, and help for children and families in understanding and coping with this challenging situation. https://www.tcps.k12.md.us/quick-links/COVID-resources.

Talbot County Department of Social Services

A feeding assistance hotline has been established for calls about COVID-19 and will be staffed between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. The number is 410-770-5515.

Talbot County Senior Center at Brookletts Place

To protect our volunteers, effective Monday, March 23, drivers will leave meals at the recipient’s door. The volunteer will call once the food has been delivered. Please have a cooler or bag outside for the food.

Town of Easton

• The May 5, 2020, election to fill the council presidency will be rescheduled for June 9, 2020.

• Council meetings will be closed to public access, until further notice.

• Meetings are televised for live viewing on MCTV Channel 98 local access.

• Council meeting recordings are available on-line at TV98. Go to https://streams.tv-98.com/ for TV98 recording.

• Council meetings will be made available on the Facebook pages of the Easton Police Department, Easton Utilities and the Easton Volunteer Fire Department.

• Public comments can be submitted to the town until the close of business on the following Friday.

• Operations and services will continue to be provided; including building permit issuance and certain
inspections.

• Please contact us using online, phone and mail options. 410-822-2525 or [email protected]

• Telephone payment options are available.

• All public assembly and sidewalk café permits are rescinded and or revoked during the time the town’s emergency declaration remains in effect.

• We appreciate your patience and thank everyone involved with the emergency response and treatment of COVID-19 for the safety of all.

Town of St. Michaels

Until we hear otherwise from the Governor’s office, beginning on Monday, March 23rd staffing at the Town Office will be reduced in order to allow for a continuance of service. The office will remain closed to the public. If the office is closed, office staff can be reached by calling 410-924-7618.

Police operations will continue as usual. If there is an emergency, please call 9-1-1. Non emergencies can reach the police department at 410-745-9500.

The Public Works Department will be working to maintain essential services in the town. Trash pickup will be as usual on Tuesday. Brush pickup will be on Wednesday.

Taxpayer Services Call Centers to Close, Tax Questions Will be Answered by Email

In order to protect employees’ health while serving the needs of Maryland taxpayers, Comptroller Peter Franchot announced that taxpayer services call center agents will no longer be staffing the 1-800-MD-TAXES phone lines following the close of business at 4:30 p.m. Monday, March 23, 2020. Taxpayers must email their tax questions to [email protected]. Response times may be affected as limited staff will be focused on processing tax returns and issuing refunds.

“For many Marylanders who are financially struggling to survive this crisis, their tax refunds will be a huge relief, so we want our very limited on-site workforce remaining to prioritize getting that money to them as quickly as possible,” said Comptroller Franchot. “By extending the filing and payment deadline for individual and corporate income taxes to July 15, as well as postponing most business tax payments until June 1, we’ve given taxpayers extra breathing room and allowed our staff to continue answering taxpayer questions without having to report to state offices.”

Essential employees will concentrate on processing income tax returns and issuing refunds as quickly as possible. All mission critical staff who are reporting to their offices must take all necessary public health precautions, including wellness screenings upon entry, proper sanitation at all times and spatial distancing between workers.

Delaware to shut non-essential businesses, residents ordered to stay home

Delaware Gov. John Carney on Sunday issued the fourth and fifth modifications to his State of Emergency declaration, ordering Delawareans to stay at home whenever possible and closing all non-essential businesses in Delaware to help fight the spread of COVID-19.

The orders go into effect at 8 a.m. Tuesday, March 24, 2020. They will remain in effect until May 15 or until the public health threat is eliminated.

March 22 3 p.m.

Ocean City closes beach, boardwalk

Ocean City leaders met Sunday morning, March 22, for an emergency meeting which resulted in the closure of Ocean City’s beach and boardwalk.

Effective at 5 p.m. Sunday, March 22, the beach and boardwalk in Ocean City will be closed due to the rapid spread of COVID-19. This closure will remain in effect through April 15, at which time it will be re-evaluated based on the status of the global health crisis. Restaurants on the boardwalk will be allowed to remain open for carry-out service only.

“The number one priority of the Mayor and City Council is to protect our citizens and employees,” Mayor Rick Meehan said in a statement. “We are facing an invisible threat and we are the carriers of this potentially deadly virus. At this time, we continue to request that visitors postpone traveling to Ocean City and that our non-resident property owners reframe from traveling to Ocean City as well. The safest place for everyone right now is in their own home.”

Only people who live within the corporate limits of the Town of Ocean will be allowed to walk their dogs or exercise on the beach or boardwalk and are restricted to groups of no more than two adults and children at any time. Social distancing will remain a requirement. This will remain in effect until which time it is abused or ignored.

“We are doing everything in our power to protect the health and safety of our citizens, but everyone has a critical role to play,” Meehan said. “We all have to work together to do whatever we can to mount our only known defense against this common enemy and that is to practice extreme measures of social distancing. We are taking these drastic steps to shorten the duration of this health crisis. If every single person steps up and does their part by making sacrifices now it will slow the spread of this virus and help us flatten the curve.”

Further updates from the Town of Ocean may be found at: www.oceancitymd.gov/covid19.

If you are experiencing possible COVID-19 symptoms (fever, cough, shortness of breath) contact your primary care doctor for further screening to determine if you should be tested. Unless you are suffering a medical emergency, please do not show up unannounced at an emergency room or other medical facility. You should speak with your healthcare provider, who can alert an emergency room so that its staff is ready with proper protective gear.

To protect yourselves and others, wash your hands often, cover cough/sneezes, clean and disinfect surfaces, and stay home if sick.

For more information on coronavirus and prevention tips, visit WorcesterHealth.org or call 410-632-1100 option #8 to connect to our call center (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.). For COVID-19 information in the State of Maryland, please dial 211.

March 22 9 a.m.

Queen Anne’s reports COVID-19 case

A Queen Anne’s County woman in her 50s who had recently travelled out of the country has tested positive for COVID-19, the county’s health officer has announced.

Dr. Joseph A. Ciotola Jr. said the woman is in stable condition.

COVID-19 is a highly contagious disease of the lungs. Symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath. COVID-19 is spread by contact with an infected person, usually through coughing and sneezing or between people who are in close contact with one another (within 6 feet). It is also possible that a person can become infected by touching a surface or an object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose and possibly eyes. COVID-19 is a new virus in humans; most people have little or no immunity.

All county residents are instructed to continue with social distancing and if you are having symptoms to contact your primary care physician. Persons who have been exposed to the virus have the potential to infect others before they display symptoms. If you have sick family members recovering at home, please use this link for more information: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-nCoV/index.html

Queen Anne’s County has set up an information line for the public to call with questions about COVID-19. Staff will be available by phone at 443-262-9900 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or email [email protected].

Follow Queen Anne’s County on social media @QACGOV and qac.gov online for the latest updates to county government. For the latest information on COVID-19, follow Queen Anne’s County Department of Health @QADOH and qahealth.org.

March 21 3 p.m.

Caroline County Reports First Case of COVID-19

On March 21, 2020, Caroline County was notified of its first positive case of COVID-19. The patient is a female in her 30s who
lives in the Federalsburg area. The woman was tested by primary care on March 17 and notification of the positive result was received in the early hours of March 21.

The woman has no history of recent travel but had been in contact with individuals who had traveled. The Caroline County
Health Department is working with the patient and the Maryland Department of Health to conduct contact tracing. This is a
process to determine who the woman has been in close contact with over the last several days. The patient is currently
resting comfortably at home, where she and her family are self-quarantining.

“Unfortunately, we knew it was only a matter of time until we had our first case of COVID-19,” said Commissioner Larry Porter. “Our team has been actively preparing for this and is ready.”

Porter went on to emphasize that this case of community transmission emphasizes the importance of social distancing.

“This virus is no longer contained to only those who have traveled or who have underlying health conditions,” he said. “Its spread in our community demonstrates the need for people to take this seriously and stay home whenever possible.”

Residents are encouraged to visit www.carolinecovid19.org for current and accurate information.

March 21 10 a.m.

Second COVID-19 death reported in Md.

A second Maryland resident, a Baltimore County man in his 60s who suffered from underlying medical conditions, has died as a result of COVID-19, officials said.

“A second Marylander has lost his life as a result of the coronavirus pandemic,” Gov. Larry Hogan said. “On behalf of our entire state, we send our heartfelt condolences to his family and to all those who loved him.

“As the number of positive cases in Maryland continues to dramatically rise, we need everyone to take this seriously,” he said. “This is a public health crisis like nothing we have ever faced before—we are all in this together, and we will get through this together.”

The Tidewater Camera Club has cancelled all meetings for April and May, due to the closure of the Community Center.
The club is exhibiting at The Art League of Ocean City (https://artleagueofoceancity.org/) through April. With its galleries currently closed, the Art League has put together a video of the club’s work. You can view the photos on the Art League’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/artleagueofoceancity/videos/2935476716499211/ and call 410-524-9433 to purchase.

Four patients reported on Shore

Talbot County remains the only Mid-Shore county with a confirmed COVID-19 case.

There are three cases on the Lower Shore, two in Wicomico County and one in Worcester.

Banks announce lobby closures, restrictions

Chesapeake Bank & Trust

Effective Monday, March 23, Chesapeake Bank & Trust will make the following changes to its office and branch hours:

The Main Office on High Street will be closed to the public, except by appointment.

The 301 Morgnec Road branch will be open its normal hours (Mon-Thurs: 8am-5pm & Fri: 8am-6:30pm), but only for drive-up window transactions and appointments.

“The bank should be fully staffed at both locations, so can also easily assist you by phone if needed, “ Glenn L. Wilson, president and CEO, said in a statement. “We have had a Pandemic Plan in place for many years, and are using it to guide us.”

To sign up for online banking and mobile deposit:

Online Banking: Go to www.chesapeaketrust.com, click on ‘Online and Mobile Banking,’ click on ‘Enroll Now’, then follow the steps.

Mobile Deposit: After you have enrolled in Online Banking, please call the bank at 410-778-1600 to activate this service.

If you would like a Debit Card, which can also be used to access ATMs to make deposits or withdraw cash, call 410-778-1600.

Shore United Bank

“During these uncertain times, the safety and well-being of our customers, employees, and communities remains our highest priority,” Shore United Bank said in a March 20 statement. “Banks are considered an essential business and we will remain open to serve you.

“This is an unprecedented time for us all and we appreciate your patience as we navigate through these temporary changes with as minimal disruptions as possible. Rest assured we will remain open for your financial needs,” according to the statement. “We will continue to monitor local, state and national resources for updates and guidance during the pandemic and communicate any further actions to our employees, customers, and communities in a timely manner.

“We are taking additional steps to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Effective immediately, we will be making the following change to our lobby access:

Limited Lobby Access

Monday through Friday: 9-9:30 a.m. — Lobby open for customers considered “at risk” or with underlying medical conditions

Monday through Friday: 9:30-11:30 a.m. — Lobby open for commercial customers ONLY

Saturday: All lobbies closed, please use our drive-thru

All other services available by APPOINTMENT ONLY

Drive-Through Service will remain open.

For a complete list of branches and drive-through hours, visit https://www.shoreunitedbank.com/

Convenience Banking Services:

Online and Mobile banking allows you to check balances, transfer funds, pay bills or make deposits. Go to https://www.shoreunitedbank.com to enroll in online banking.

ATMs are available for your cash needs. In addition to our ATMs, Shore United Bank partners with the Allpoint Network, a surcharge-free network of ATMs with over 55,000 locations worldwide.

Visa Debit cards reduce cash handling and can be used anywhere Visa is accepted.

PaySomeone is a good option to quickly transfer funds to another person.

InTouch Telephone Banking allows you to check balances, retrieve transaction history, transfer funds or place a stop payment on your accounts by calling toll-free 888-758-4900.

March 20 3 p.m.

Talbot OKs Delivery, Carry-Out Sales of Alcohol During COVID-19 Emergency

The county council is allowing Talbot County liquor license holders that serve food to also sell alcoholic beverages by delivery or carry-out.

The county granted “authority to Talbot County liquor license holders who serve food to sell alcoholic beverages as a part of their carry-out and delivery services for so long as the Governor’s Executive Order is in effect under the following conditions:

• They have a current local liquor license and, before this emergency, sold food on premises;

• The person who delivers the alcohol must be over the age of twenty one (21) and must have completed alcohol
awareness training/TIPS, as required under current law;

• Deliveries/carry out for alcoholic beverages should only occur during the hours allowed for alcohol service
under the Talbot County liquor license;

• The alcoholic beverage must be served in a container that is sealed; and

• All other laws related to the service of alcohol to the public remain in effect.

Breweries, wineries and distilleries can deliver as allowed under the Governor’s Executive Order and their state license.

Anyone with questions or concerns may contact the liquor board office by phone at 410-770-8019 or by email through the board secretary, Patricia Finneyfrock, at [email protected].

USM Campuses to Shift to Distance Learning for Rest of Semester, Commencements Canceled

The University System of Maryland will shift to distance-learning for undergraduate students for the rest of the spring semester and cancel in-person commencement ceremonies, Chancellor Jay A. Perman announced Thursday evening.

Individual campuses will be releasing detailed plans on how students can retrieve their belongings from dorms and on-campus housing, with a special focus on avoiding large crowds. Universities will also be disinfecting high-touch areas as students move out.

The system is working on a plan for students who aren’t able to come back to get their things personally.

Campuses are also making plans to provide pro-rated refunds for room and board, as well as other campus fees. Federal financial aid packages will not be refunded, Perman said.

There is also a consensus among campus leaders to push back the tuition deposit deadline for the fall semester, which is usually May 1.

UMMS Announces Visitor Restrictions At All Facilities

The University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) is enacting updated visitor restrictions at all 13 system hospitals and other UMMS healthcare facilities.

As of 3 p.m. Friday, March 20, there will be no visitors allowed, except under specific circumstances, and by prior approval of the physician administrative officer or their designee. This policy applies to all patients within UMMS hospitals and other facilities, is in alignment with Johns Hopkins Medicine, and is consistent with approaches taken by other leading health care institutions nationwide.

Exceptions include:

For in-patient facilities

• End-of-life care or end of life decision making. For these situations, two visitors will be permitted.

• One parent or caregiver of a child in the neonatal intensive care unit

• One parent or caregiver of pediatric patients as long as they are not symptomatic

• One visitor inclusive of a professional support person or postpartum helper of a patient in the labor and delivery and the postpartum units

• One visitor for patients in inpatient hospice units

• One visitor to accompany patients for hospital discharge

• One visitor for patients undergoing emergency surgery

• Visitors who have been asked by the patient’s care team to be a part of scheduled family training for patients with rehabilitation needs.

For all outpatient appointments

• One visitor will be permitted to accompany a patient to facilitate care or treatment such as an ambulatory visit, procedure or same-day surgery

More information about the Strict Patient Safety Policy can be found on the UMMS dedicated COVID-19 information webpage, https://www.umms.org/covid.

March 20 9 a.m.

UM Shore Regional Health Announces Changes to Lab, Imaging Services Starting Monday

The University of Maryland Shore Regional Health has announced changes in the delivery of outpatient laboratory testing and imaging services around the region. These changes go into effect as of Monday, March 23, 2020.

The following imaging procedures are postponed at all outpatient locations: screening mammography, cardiac scoring CT scans, screening lung CT scans and ultrasound AAA screenings. Patients with scheduled appointments for these procedures are being notified by phone and new appointments will not be rescheduled until further notice.

All other imaging procedures with a medical necessity are being scheduled as needed; these procedures may be scheduled by calling 410-822-1000, ext. 2600. All imaging locations are open with regular operating hours.

Changes to outpatient laboratory services, either walk-in or by appointment, are as follows:

• In Cambridge, the lab at Sunburst Plaza is closed. Regular and therapeutic blood draws are conducted at UM Shore Medical Center at Dorchester.
• In Centreville, the lab at 2450 Centerville Road is closed; patients needing lab services are directed to the lab at UM Shore Medical Pavilion at Queenstown.
• In Chestertown, the Roundtop lab is closed. Regular and therapeutic blood draws are conducted at UM Shore Medical Center at Chestertown.
• In Denton, the lab at Shore Medical Pavilion at Denton remains open.
• In Easton, lab services offered at the Diagnostic and Imaging Center are unchanged; however, the lab on Teal Drive is closed.
• The lab in UM Shore Medical Center at Easton remains open for therapeutic blood draw only; patients are directed to the Diagnostic and Imaging Center.
• In Queenstown, the lab at Shore Medical Pavilion at Queenstown remains open.

For more information about University of Maryland Medical System responses to COVID-19, visit https://www.umms.org/coronavirus.

All Md. Comptroller Branch Offices Closed; Taxpayer Assistance Still Available Via Email, Phone

Comptroller Peter Franchot has announced that all of the agency’s branch offices throughout the state would close at 4:30 p.m. Thursday and will remain closed until further notice.

Taxpayers are urged to file their Maryland state income tax returns electronically, including the use of direct deposit for refunds. Taxpayers also can email their questions to [email protected] or call 1-800-MD-TAXES for help weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. (extended hours during tax season remain in effect).

Franchot recently announced several deadline extensions for income, corporate and business tax payments. They are as follows:

• April 15 – Filing deadline for federal income tax or to file a federal extension. No separate Maryland extension is necessary if you file a federal extension.
• June 1 – Returns and payments are due for Maryland business-related taxes not collected in March, April and May including sales and use tax, withholding tax, and admissions & amusement tax, alcohol tax, tobacco tax, and motor fuel tax, as well as tire recycling fee and bay restoration fee returns.
• July 15 – Deadline for Maryland individual, corporate, pass through entity, and fiduciary income tax payments, as well as March quarterly estimated payments.
• October 15 – Deadline for filing Maryland income tax returns if a federal extension was filed.

Eastern Neck Lodge, Blackwater Visitor Center Closed

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has announced the suspension of operations at the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) Visitor Center, and the Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge Lodge, effective March 20, 2020. The suspension of operations is supported by the State of Maryland. All trails will remain open to provide opportunities for recreation and relaxation. At Blackwater, the Wildlife Drive will remain open and entrance fees are temporarily waived.

Chestertown Tea Party Festival Cancelled

The Chestertown Tea Party Festival Committee has made the decision to cancel the 2020 Festival.

St. Michaels Community Center Offers Delivery Support for Bay Hundred Food Pantries

The St. Michaels Community Center is available to make deliveries for all local pantries in the Bay Hundred area on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the COVID-19 outbreak. SMCC will pick up food from local pantries in its blue after-school bus and deliver to people in areas west and south of St. Michaels.

SMCC is collecting a list of individuals in need of grocery deliveries, with addresses from St. Michaels to Tilghman Island. Times and locations will be announced on SMCC’s website, with those needing deliveries asked to call 410-745-6073 or email [email protected].

SMCC is also providing take-out meals and grocery pick-up to those in need from 5 to 7 p.m. Mondays, 3 to 5 p.m. Wednesdays, and 11 to 3 p.m. Fridays at its 103 Railroad Ave. location in St. Michaels.

Individuals wanting to help can donate to SMCC at paypal.me/smccmd, or drop off non-perishables at the St. Michaels Community Center, the St. Michaels Police Dept., YMCA of the Chesapeake locations, local firehouses, and area churches.

Worcester, Wicomico Counties Report First COVID-19 Cases

Wicomico and Worcester counties have reported their first COVID-19 cases; officials have said the cases are connected. The Wicomico man acquired the virus through travel and the Worcester man had close contact with him.

March 19 3 p.m.

Hogan tells Marylanders to stay home

Gov. Larry Hogan urged “all Marylanders to stay home to help us slow the spread of this virus” as he announced that the state’s confirmed cases of coronavirus had reached 107, an 88 percent increase in the last 48 hours.

Those cases include the first Maryland child — a 5-year-old girl in Howard County — to test positive for COVID-19. Maryland had reported its first death due to the virus late Wednesday.

The governor also announced several additional actions he had taken to address the pandemic:

• Access to the BWI terminal will be restricted to ticketed passengers and badged airport employees only. Exceptions will be made for those visitors who are assisting disabled passengers.

• Passengers are urged to restrict use of all public, mass transit for essential travel only.

• Any events of more than 10 people in close proximity at all locations, establishments and venues across the state is prohibited.

• All enclosed shopping malls and all entertainment venues will be closed effective 5 p.m. Thursday, March 19.

• The governor has asked the Board of Regents of the University System of Maryland to move classes online for the remainder of the spring semester.

• Hogan issued an executive order to allow trucks to exceed their legal weight limits “in order to facilitate the delivery of important equipment and supplies.”

• The governor announced that 900 hospital beds have already been made immediately available and Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore City is opening a new floor to add capacity.

Hogan will issue an executive order to allow the delivery and carryout sales of alcohol by restaurants, bars, distilleries, and wineries, subject to local liquor laws and local regulations.

• The governor said Maryland now has more than 350 meal distribution centers open and operating for children across the state. For locations, go to mdsummermeals.org.

• The state has launched a new Maryland Unites website at governor.maryland.gov/marylandunites to highlight the ways and opportunities that Marylanders can volunteer in assisting their neighbors and communities.

• The governor urged all Marylanders who are healthy and feeling well to consider donating blood, noting the Red Cross is reporting severe blood shortages across the country and in Maryland as a result of COVID-19. Go to redcross.org to find out where to donate.

St. Michaels Community Center offers delivery support to Bay Hundred food pantries

The St. Michaels Community Center is available to make deliveries for all local pantries in the Bay Hundred area on Tuesdays and Thursdays during the COVID-19 outbreak. SMCC will pick up food from local pantries in its blue after-school bus and deliver to people in areas west and south of St. Michaels.

SMCC is collecting a list of individuals in need of grocery deliveries, with addresses from St. Michaels to Tilghman Island. Times and locations will be announced on SMCC’s website, with those needing deliveries asked to call 410-745-6073 or email [email protected].

SMCC is also providing take-out meals and grocery pick-up to those in need from 5 to 7 p.m. Mondays, 3 to 5 p.m. Wednesdays, and 11 to 3 p.m. Fridays at its 103 Railroad Ave. location in St. Michaels.

Individuals wanting to help can donate to SMCC at paypal.me/smccmd, or drop off non-perishables at the St. Michaels Community Center, the St. Michaels Police Department, YMCA of the Chesapeake locations, local firehouses, and area churches.

March 19 9 a.m.

Md. has first COVID-19 death

A Prince George’s County man in his 60s who had an underlying medical condition is the first COVID-19 death in Maryland, officials announced late Wednesday.

“It is with profound sadness that I announce the first death in Maryland as a result of the coronavirus pandemic,” Gov. Larry Hogan said in a statement. “I ask all Marylanders to join me in praying for his family and loved ones during this difficult time. As we pray for his loved ones, I ask that we continue to pray for each other, for our state, and for our nation as we face this crisis together. We must use every possible resource at every level of government to save lives and keep people safe.”

Hogan will hold a press conference at 10 a.m. to provide further updates about COVID-19 and announce additional actions.

Mid-Shore Scholars goes online

Mid-Shore Scholars will hold its next Saturday workshops (3/28, 4/4, and 4/18) online from 10-2. MSS has online tutoring every Tuesday and Thursday 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. Additional algebra, biology, and English tutoring sessions are available throughout the week.

March 18 3 p.m.

Maryland currently has 85 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Talbot County remains the only county on the Eastern Shore of Maryland with a confirmed case.

There are 31 cases in Montgomery County, 20 in Prince George’s, 10 in Baltimore, 8 in Howard, 4 each in Anne Arundel County and Baltimore City, 3 in Harford, 2 in Charles, and 1 each in Carroll, Frederick and Talbot counties.

Kent County is still awaiting test results from a Washington College student who remains in isolation on campus.

Kent County has closed all county buildings to the public. Staff will be working and practicing social distancing. Citizens are urged to call with questions, email with questions or to submit documents, and use drop boxes or the mail to submit payments and documents.

Please visit www.kentcounty.com for up-to-date information on county government operations. You may call 410-778-4600 and email [email protected].

For Kent County COVD-19 updates, visit https://www.kentcounty.com/coronavirus.

In the region, the state of Delaware has 19 confirmed cases — 17 in New Castle County (which contains the City of Wilmington) and one each in Kent and Sussex counties — and the District of Columbia has 31 cases.

March 18 9 a.m.

• The Talbot County Department of Emergency Services has launched a new website — www.talbotcovid19.org — that will be a central location for community information during the COVID-19 health emergency.

• Free breakfast and lunch for children 2 through 18 will be available for pick-up 9 to 11 a.m. today at Easton Middle School, Easton Elementary-Dobson, St. Michaels Middle High and the St. Michaels Police Department.

Beginning Thursday, March 19, free meals will be distributed for children ages 2 through 18 at the following expanded list of locations: Easton Middle, Easton Elementary-Dobson, the corner of Dover and Aurora Streets in Easton, the Neighborhood Service Center, St. Michaels Middle High, St. Michaels Police Dept., Chapel District Elementary, White Marsh Elementary, and Tilghman Elementary.  This will include breakfast, lunch, dinner and a snack. These are drive-by/pick-up sites outdoors.

Drive-by or walk-up meal pickup will be at all locations from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Monday through Friday.

March 17

Gov. Larry Hogan has postponed Maryland’s April 28 primary to June 2. A special election for Rep. Elijah Cummings’ 7th Congressional District seat will proceed on April 28 as a mail-in only election. Maryland is the fifth state to move its primary.

The state is reporting 60 confirmed cases of COVID-19, with three patients recovered. Of the 57 active cases, 37 are aged 19-64 and 20 are 65 and older.

Closings and Postponements 

Schools

Maryland Public Schools

All public schools will be closed through April 24, by order of the state school superintendent.

The Benedictine School

Closed through March 27.

Chesapeake College

• Spring break will be extended through March 27 for students.

• Classes, including the start of spring accelerated courses, are scheduled to resume on March 30.

• Starting March 30, the majority of courses will be delivered remotely with the aid of technology.

• Services, such as the LRC (library), Early Childhood Education Center, Bookstore, Fitness Center, Higher Education Center, etc. will be closed through March 29. This date is likely to be extended.

• Wye Mills and Cambridge locations will be closed to the public through March 29. This date is likely to be extended.

• All public events at the college are cancelled now through April 30. This date may be extended. In addition, buildings on the Wye Mills campus and the Chesapeake College Cambridge Center are closed to the public until further notice. The Todd Performing Arts Center, the Early Childhood Development Center, the Eastern Shore Higher Education Center, the Fitness Center, the Barnes and Noble bookstore on campus, and the Sodexo café are all included in the closure.

• All athletic events and activities are suspended for the remainder of the Spring 2020 semester.

• Commencement ceremonies will not occur on campus on May 20. A virtual ceremony is being considered.

• Students are not to visit campus until further notice. Online resources such as library services and tutoring will be available through the Learning Resource Center at https://libguides.chesapeake.edu/academic-support-center/home

Chestertown Christian Academy

Closed through March 27.

The Country School

Closed through March 31 with remote learning beginning March 19.

Radcliffe Creek School

Radcliffe Creek School’s K-8 program will be closed until March 30, 2020. Little Creek will be closed until March 23, 2020.

Wye River Upper School

Washington College

Closed for the semester. Classes will move online starting March 23. Move-out date for students is March 31.

Libraries

Kent County Public Library

The library will be closed to the public Monday, March 16, through Saturday, March 28, and library programming will be canceled through Friday, April 17.

Talbot County Free Library

Both branches are closed from Monday, March 16, through Saturday, March 28. The library plans to reopen on Monday, March 30.

Patrons are encouraged to take advantage of the library’s eLearning opportunities and downloadable and streaming eBooks, audiobooks, music, magazines, and movies — all of which are available free of charge, 24/7.  For more information, please visit www.tcfl.org.

Museums and Centers

Senior Centers

All senior centers in the state are closed until further notice.

Adkins Arboretum 

Adkins will close the Arboretum’s Visitor’s Center and postpone all scheduled programs, events, gatherings, and meetings until after March 28. We will continually evaluate the situation and keep you posted on future plans.

Although the grounds will be open, the Visitor’s Center will be locked throughout the next two weeks, starting today. We ask that those of you who have keys not enter the building until further notice.

Academy Art Museum

The Academy Art Museum will be closed through April 30.

Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum

CBMM will temporarily close to the public on a 24-hour basis beginning Saturday, March 14. CBMM anticipates reopening April 1, subject to further evaluation.

CBMM will also postpone the 9th Eastern Shore Sea Glass and Coastal Arts Festival, originally scheduled for Saturday, April 4 and Sunday, April 5, due to an executive order announced by the state prohibiting gatherings of more than 250 people.

CBMM will also postpone the following public events originally scheduled within the March 14–31 time frame: Open Boatshop, Chart Navigation, Delaware Restoration AFAD Days.

St. Michaels Community Center

All non-food related programming is canceled. SMCC is providing take-out meals and grocery pick-up to those in need at its 103 Railroad Ave. location in St. Michaels on Mondays from 5 to 7 p.m., Wednesdays from 3 to 5 p.m., and Fridays from 11 to 3 p.m. Updates and more information are here.

Events

• The Easton Choral Arts Society concert, Gems from Vienna on April 16 and 19 has been cancelled. The ECAS pre-concert lecture on April 16 has been cancelled.

• Third Haven Friends Meeting Immigration Film Series (How Do We Welcome the Stranger?), to be held on March 20 and April 3, are cancelled. As of now, the DREAMers film and speaker panel still will be held on April 17. A determination will be made at a later date whether to proceed, postpone, or cancel that event.

• Chestertown Earth Day Festival set for April 18 has been cancelled.

• The Tilghman Watermen’s Museum annual Splendor event scheduled for Saturday, April 18, has been cancelled.

• St. Michaels Museum annual meeting scheduled for April 19 at the St Michaels library is postponed and will be rescheduled at a later date.

• Tidewater Singers April Concert, “Considering Matthew Shepard,” set for April 24 and 25 is cancelled and rescheduled for April 2021.

• The last two concerts of the twenty-seventh season of the Emmanuel Concert Series (Ken Cowan on April 24 and Andrew Sheranian on May 8) have been postponed.

• The Queen Anne’s County Branch of the NAACP has cancelled its annual Freedom Fund Banquet Luncheon, which was to be held on April 25.

• Chesapeake Music’s Sharel Cassity Quartet concert, at the Talbot Country Club, April 25, is postponed.

• C.E.S.’tival, scheduled for April 25 in Wilmer Park in Chestertown has been postponed.

• Tred Avon Players’ spring production of “And Then There Was None,” scheduled for April 30-May 10 is cancelled.

• Maryland House & Garden Pilgrimage has cancelled all tours, including the May 9, 2020, Talbot County Tour.

• Chesapeake Champion 2020, scheduled for Thursday, May 21, at the historic Tidewater Inn in Easton, has been postponed until the fall.

Churches

• The Unitarian Universalists of the Chester River (Chestertown) and the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship at Easton have both cancelled worship for Sunday March 15, and will make decisions on future services on a week-by-week basis.

• The bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Easton has directed all in-person church worship to be suspended Sunday, March 15 through May 10, including all Holy Week and Easter Sunday services.

• All activities at Third Haven Friends Meeting, including meeting for worship, have been suspended until further notice. The situation will be evaluated weekly and an announcement will be made when activities resume.

• First United Methodist Church in Chestertown will be extending the closing of the building to all activities until April 27.  Video service will be available on Facebook.

• St. Marks United Methodist Church in Easton will be closed to all activities and public worship services March 22 and 29. The church will stream its service at 9 a.m. each Sunday on Facebook live. Visit www.stmarkseaston.org or the church’s Facebook page for additional information.

Programs

UM Shore Regional Health

Effective Friday, March 13 at 5 p.m., all support group meetings, classes, seminars and professional meetings scheduled in UM Shore Regional Health hospitals, outpatient, and other facilities are cancelled until further notice.

Cancelled events include: support groups for behavioral health, cancer, diabetes, hospice, stroke and behavioral health; meetings for members of AA, OA and NA; childbirth and parent education classes; nursing education classes, educational seminars and meetings of special-interest and professional groups.

Compass Regional Hospice

All support groups, workshops, and volunteer trainings are cancelled until further notice effective Friday, March 13.

Cancelled events include Washington College Grief Group (on Thursday evenings), Sudlersville Senior Center “Change & Loss” Workshop (March 13), NAACP Workshop on Understanding The Grief Journey (March 21), Herron Point Workshop on “Change & Loss” Workshop (March 19), Volunteer Training (March 24, 25 & 26), Monthly Veteran Café, all school-based Grief Support in the public school systems, and all monthly Grief Support Groups.

Avalon Foundation

Closed effective Friday, March 13. All programming through April 24 is cancelled.

Decisions regarding performances and events beyond April 24 will be made by April 10.

Community Table

The Community Table in Chestertown, held on Monday nights, will be closed until school district classes reopen.

Rotary Club of St. Michaels

Regular Wednesday morning meetings of the Rotary Club of St Michaels are cancelled until further notice.

Mid-Shore Scholars

Mid-Shore Scholars will hold its next Saturday workshops (3/28, 4/4, and 4/18) online from 10-2. MSS has online tutoring every Tuesday and Thursday 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. Additional algebra, biology, and English tutoring sessions are available throughout the week.

RiverArts

RiverArts Main Gallery will be closed until further notice. RiverArts will suspend in-person group programs and activities in all locations for 30 days, effective Friday, March 13, 2020. This includes: Clay Studio and ArtsAlive face-to-face group classes and events, Regular Clay Studio Open Studio hours, Life Drawing, Plein Air, Photography Club groups, RiverArts Film Society screenings, KidSPOT Saturday drop-ins, KidSPOT After School Enrichment program.

Talbot Mentors

All program activities suspended while public schools are closed. Office at 108 Maryland Ave. closed to visitors.

Character Counts Mid-Shore

All Character Counts lessons are suspended until further notice.

Kent Cultural Alliance

All public arts events for the next two weeks will be cancelled or postponed.

Horn Point Laboratory

Upcoming Science Bytes events are cancelled.

Sumner Hall

Closed as of Friday, March 13. All scheduled activities are cancelled until further notice.

AARP Tax-Aide Mid-Shore

All AARP Midshore Tax Aide preparation sites are closed until further notice. Clients are encouraged to find an alternative for preparing their tax returns.

Chesapeake Forum

All Chesapeake Forum courses in progress or scheduled to begin before May 1, 2020 are cancelled due to the threat of COVID-19 and subsequent venue closures. The forum will evaluate the situation in April and determine whether it will hold the programs scheduled to begin after May 1.

Rebuilding Together Kent County

Upcoming volunteer events, including the Monthly [Re]Build Day scheduled for Saturday, March 28, and National [Re]Build Day on April 25, are postponed.

Oxford Community Center

Oxford Community Center is closed through at least April 1st, and all classes, programs, and events are cancelled.

Kent County 4-H

All Kent County 4-H events are suspended until April 15. Check out the Maryland 4-H Facebook page for state 4-H updates.

Eastern Shore Land Conservancy

Beginning Monday, March 16, Eastern Shore Land Conservancy offices will be closed until further notice. Staff are teleworking and can be reached by phone or email with the contact information found on the ESLC website. Staff can also be reached by calling the office line and extension listed on the website. These calls will be forwarded to staff cell numbers.

The Eastern Shore Conservation Center will be closed to the general public and available by appointment only until further notice.

St. Michaels Community Center

St. Michaels Community Center is suspending senior programs until further notice. The St. Michaels Community Center will continue to have grocery bags of basic food staples available to anyone in need, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, when non-perishable donations will also be accepted.

CASA of the Mid-Shore

CASA of the Mid-Shore offices are closed to the public. Staff will be teleworking as much as possible and will do their best to monitor email and phone messages as well as USPS mail.

Easton Economic Development Corporation

The coffee shop meetings on Wednesdays at Whole Note Coffee will be cancelled until further notice.

Adkins Arboretum

Adkins Arboretum has cancelled all programs and events through the end of May. This includes all volunteer activities, from small group gatherings to trainings and outreach.

Businesses

• The Peoples Bank will be functioning in a drive-through only capacity as of March 17. Management will reassess opening the lobbies to the public again by March 30. For up-to-date information on The Peoples Bank’s COVID-19 response, please visit www.pbkc.com/news/COVID-19.

Courts

Maryland

All courthouses are closed to the public for a three-week period, from Monday, March 16, through Friday, April 3. Courts will be staffed to handle emergency matters, including, but not limited to, domestic violence petitions, bail reviews, juvenile detention and shelter hearings, and search warrants.

U.S. District Court

All trials in Maryland have been postponed through April 24.

Volunteer Opportunities & Other Community Needs

• The Talbot Local Care Team and the Talbot County Hunger Coalition, working in cooperation with Talbot Emergency Management, are coordinating volunteer activities throughout the county. Sign up here. When volunteer opportunities arise you’ll get an email from Sign-Up Genius with all the details and you can choose what’s a good match for your skills and abilities.
• TCPS Meal Delivery and Pickup: Emily Moody is coordinating volunteers for Talbot County Public School’s meal delivery and pickup. If you can help, contact her at: [email protected]
• Maryland Community for Life℠-Talbot (CFL-Talbot) offers innovative approaches for safe, independent living for Seniors 65+: There are various opportunities to help. Call: 410-443-0760
• Talbot Interfaith Shelter (TIS) is in need of additional volunteers as many of their current volunteers are older and in self-quarantine. They currently need volunteers at their shelter facility to be there in case of emergency, to answer the door, and accept donations. There is additional and detailed information on duties and shifts, which can be obtained on request from them. Note that anyone interested must pass a background check. Apply online here. TIS also need the following supplies for their shelter and apartments: Toilet paper, paper towel, disinfectant wipes, non-latex gloves, etc.

This post will be updated with additional information as it becomes available.