Cecil County Life Summer 2020

Summer 2020

Cecil County Life

Magazine M agazine

Port Deposit: The scintillating taste of memory Page 40

Inside: • Cecil County tourism • The Chesapeake Wooden Boat Builders School • Cecil College programs prepare students for future Complimentary Copy

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Cecil County Life Summer 2020

Cecil County Life Table of Contents 8 The Chesapeake Wooden Boat Builders School

18 The little school with a big heart 28 Q & A with Maureen O’Shea 34 Own your own future at Cecil College 40 Photo Essay: Port Deposit:

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The scintillating taste of memory

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O’ Brien inducted into hall of fame Student benefits from scholarships Biasucci selected to lead foundation Cecil County tourism

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Cecil County Life Summer 2020 Letter from the Editor:

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This issue of Cecil County Life is arriving at just about its normal time—even though very little has been normal in the last few months. The coronavirus pandemic very suddenly changed your lives—and ours—and we are delighted to be able to bring you this issue of the magazine.

Several stories in this issue look at how Cecil County is charting its comeback from the pandemic. Tourism will certainly continue to play an important role in the county’s revitalization efforts. Cecil County tourism officials are developing smart ideas, focusing on collaboration with other agencies, and following through on a commitment to support businesses in the effort to help with Cecil County’s comeback.

This issue also includes a story about how Cecil College is empowering students to own their future through a wide variety of educational choices that will prepare them for today’s career landscape. These options include S.T.E.M. degrees and courses in skilled trades that are very much in demand. Cecil College has played a vital role in the county’s overall economic health for decades.

We also take readers inside the Chesapeake Wooden Boat Builders School, which trains participants to build, restore, and repair boats. The school is in North East Community Park, next to the Upper Bay Museum.

The subject of the Q & A is Maureen O’Shea, the agriculture business coordinator for the Cecil County Office of Economic Development.

We also have a story about the little school with a big heart—the Immaculate Conception School, which closed its doors for the final time in June after 93 years of serving the community. The story focuses on the fond memories that former students and teachers have of the school.

The photo essay is “Port Deposit: The scintillating taste of memory.”

We’re glad to share this issue of Cecil County Life with you, and we wish you all good health and good cheer as we prepare to deliver the next issue of the magazine in the fall of 2020.

Sincerely, Randy Lieberman, Publisher randyl@chestercounty.com, 610-869-5553 Steve Hoffman, Editor editor@chestercounty.com 610-869-5553, ext. 13 Cover photo: Jim Coarse Cover Design: Tricia Hoadley www.cecilcountylife.com | Summer 2020 | Cecil County Life

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|Around Cecil County|

The Wooden Boat Bu In the spotlight:

By Ken Mammarella Contributing Writer

T

hey humbly call themselves students, although participants in the Chesapeake Wooden Boat Builders School have built, restored and repaired dozens of boats and models over three decades and have also become teachers, instructing members of the public, teens and each other in their craft.

And their studies, school co-director Bud Gillis repeated, are truly fun. “It’s a social thing, as much as anything,” he said, noting that some students at times gather outside their Tuesday evening classes to go out on the water or just go out to lunch.

Continued on Page 10

All photos courtesy of Bud Gillis

In just a week, participants in the Teen Boat Building class go from precut lumber to the finished canoe.

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he Chesapeake Builders School

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Boat Builders School Continued from Page 8

Lifestyle

Why fit in, when a

The school is in North East Community Park, next to the Upper Bay Museum, with both in buildings that used to be part of the H.L. Harvey seafood processing complex on Walnut Street. “The goal of the school was, and continues to be, to teach wooden boat building skills using readily accessible materials as one way to perpetuate the maritime heritage of the Upper Chesapeake region,” the school says on its page on the museum’s website (www.upperbaymuseum.org/boat-school). “We cater to the interested amateur who wants to build their own craft but are afraid to start.”

North East’s maritime heritage was in shad and herring (witness the name of Herring Snatchers Park, once known as a spot to snatch herring stuck by a dam), said Rick Bouchelle, president of Upper Bay Museum. Nearby waters are now mainly known for catfish, crabs, bass and yellow perch.

The museum displays three boats renovated at the school.

One is a bushwhack boat, used for duck hunting in the mid-20th century and on loan from the Litzenberg family. A second is a punt gun skiff from the early 1900s and donated by the Coulter family. A third is a gilling skiff, used to tend Continued on Page 12

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Many, many tools are needed – and shared – in the school.

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Boat Builders School Continued from Page 10

nets a century ago, built by Sam Barnes, a relative of Gillis, and donated to the museum.

Gillis’ life is entwined with water and wood. He lives in Belcamp, close enough to the Bush River to often go canoeing with his two sons, his five grandchildren or “everybody.” His grandfather was a waterman, and his

John Durand, left, and Jim Wacker apply marine paint to a newly built canoe.

grandfather and father were woodworkers. “Since the mid-’70s I’ve had a canoe in my basement or my garage – 10 when I retired, and 15 or so now. It’s fun to take apart something that’s not worth anything and restore it. It’s very satisfying. When I saw the school’s shop, I fell in love.”

Gillis shares school leadership with Bob Silcox and Don Kerr.

Students meet from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the school, a nondescript building that is 30 feet by 60 feet, enough space to work on five or six boats at a time.

Continued on Page 14

The Chesapeake Wooden Boat Builders School meets on Tuesdays in North East Community Park.

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Boat Builders School Continued from Page 12

The school began in 1989 in conjunction with the Harford Community College. Today it’s affiliated with Cecil College, with students paying $175 a semester for the Wooden Boat Building, Repair and Restoration class. Most of that money goes to the boat builders school, and that financial arrangement also covers insurance and other background logistics.

A Teen Boat Building class, listed in the college summer camp brochure, allows the school to spread their knowledge to a far younger group. Participants create a double paddle canoe and get a water safety class.

As the school grew, it has relocated multiple times, with stints in the Seneca Cannery in Havre de Grace, in the old Post Office, in the Havre de Grace Maritime Museum and since 2014 in North East.

It all began with a Chesapeake Bay Sharpie, and over the decades students have built, repaired and restored a variety of boats up to 16 feet long, plus models. “We’re trying to teach students how to do the work, what skills they need and where to get materials, so they can do it on their own,” Gillis said. “Most guys have a boat or two at home they’re working on as well.”

Most of these guys are retirees, which gives them a

This group applies epoxy to a fiberglass cloth that covers a stitch-and-glue kit paddle board from Chesapeake Light Craft. Once spread and dried, the epoxy forms a hard shiny finish.

different perspective on time and which also means they don’t count the hours they devote to a particular job. “We have always refrained from that,” he said about clocking their time. “Been there, done that. Don’t want to do it again.” That said, some boats have taken more than a year of work, including delving into their history.

Continued on Page 16

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Boat Builders School Continued from Page 14

Over the decades, some work has been on pay boats, meaning someone in the community paid to have the work done. Other boats have been raffled or purchased by students. And for potential students who have boats that they want to restore or a desire to build their own, Gillis advises signing up for a class. “Find out who we are, and we’ll find out who you are,” he explained.

As the school says online: “The school, unfortunately, does not have the space for every student to work on their own boat. We have also found over time that it is best for new students to start out working with ‘under construction’ school projects.”

The largest number of students build and restore boats. The school also organizes itself with model making (some running with radio controls, some just to be displayed), canoe restoration, community education (traveling with an exhibit of skills and projects) and mini courses and demonstrations.

“I’ve been there for over five years,” Craig Hank Passi wrote on the school’s richly photographed Facebook page.

“Excellent staff and good eager students who share the spirit of renovating boats, great group to share laughter and [has done wonders] to serve our community.”

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Canoe restoration is one the aspects of the Chesapeake Wooden Boat Builders School.

“Having the school next door is win-win,” the museum’s Bouchelle said. “It’s good for the park and the town. It’s another way to see our heritage.”

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|Cecil County Spotlight|

The little school with the big heart

Fond memories of Immaculate Conception School All photos courtesy

Immaculate Conception School served generations of families in Cecil County and the surrounding area.

By Drewe Phinny Contributing Writer

O

ne of the best ways to get an idea of how students felt about Immaculate Conception School (ICS) is to read the 2020 graduate profiles on the Facebook

page.

Anna Jane Murphy’s favorite memory was “8th grade talent show night.” Her nickname at ICS was “Blondie.” Her greatest achievement was being inducted into the National Junior Honor Society. Her next stop is the Gunston School.

Hannah Rose King started at ICS in kindergarten (20112012). She remembers playing with the toy kitchen in the classroom during free time. One of her favorite memories is the fire truck coming at the end of every field day and spraying everybody in the parking lot. Hannah’s proudest achievement is getting first honors every year. Hannah’s next stop is Padua Academy.

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What will she miss most? “How our class was one big family.” Hannah was voted “most likely to fall off the curb looking at her planner.”

Samantha Paige Delboy, who is also on her way to Padua Academy, will miss all her friends and was voted most likely to be an artist.

Devin Walsh started in ICS in preschool. His favorite memory was field day, and his greatest achievement was being on the Science-Math Olympiad team.

William Edwin Hill Pierce started in second grade. He remembers meeting his friend, Trent, who was also new that year. He considers his greatest achievement “winning the Patriots Pen Award and getting invited to the awards ceremony. Mrs. MacInnes joined us to see me receive my award.” He’s going to Woodberry Forest School in Virginia.

Justin Raenald Marcos (nickname J. Dawg) was considered class clown and plans to attend high school in Canada.

The comments are typical of how kids live their lives

Students learned how to meet challenges at ICS.

Immaculate Conception School in Elkton served the community for 93 years.

through different layers of syllabi and silliness as they navigate their way through the first few years of formal education. The key is to combine the serious academia with a smattering of humor and recreation, producing a balanced approach which will prepare them for the future.

Immaculate Conception School was a Roman Catholic parochial school for children up to the eighth grade. It was located in Elkton. The parish school was a part of the diocese of Wilmington, Del. According to the school website,

ICS was opened by the Ursuline Sisters in 1927, followed by the Glen Riddle Franciscans in 1930. The school reached its peak enrollment in the 1960s.

ICS drew students from the tri-state area of Maryland, Delaware and Pennsylvania and was known for its “family feel, and loving, supportive community as well as strong academics.� Other priorities included small class size and individual attention, a safe, structured learning environment Continued on Page 20

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Immaculate Conception School Continued from Page 19

and a rigorous faith-based education that allows each child the best opportunity to grow intellectually, morally and spiritually.

Last year, Pastor James Yeakel and Bishop W. Francis Malooly met with faculty and staff and parents and guardians to discuss the future of the school. Despite a reportedly strong state-of-the-school presentation, the declining enrollment and rising costs led to the recommendation that ICS should close its doors in June 2020. As it turned out, the COVID-19 pandemic forced the issue.

Another Facebook post that reveals the dedication of the ICS teachers and their love for the students is titled, “Special Surprise Delivery.”

The post reads: “Today the middle school teachers got in their cars and drove to each 8th grade student’s house to personally deliver their gowns, and lawn signs for graduation. Their surprise visit was as exciting as Ed McMahon delivering the Publishers Clearinghouse Sweepstakes check.

The concern and affection these teachers have for their students at ICS is palpable. It’s as good as it gets! Thank you, Mrs. Gill, Mrs. Karleen, Mrs. MacInnes, and Mrs. Burchett for driving all the way to Chestertown and all over Cecil

Aila Simbulan with her family at graduation.

County to make the deliveries.”

According to The Dialog, the newspaper of the Catholic Diocese of Wilmington, serving Delaware and Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Mary Gill is the longest-serving teacher at the school, having served just over 30 years. She has been to weddings, baptisms and other events. She has heard from some of her students lately.

Gill is quoted as saying, “When one of my former students found out we were closing, he offered me a job. I thought that was very touching. I told him I was retiring.”

But despite the sadness in the school community, Gill

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injected an optimistic note. “People should concentrate on all the positives Immaculate Conception has brought to Cecil County since 1927. The family atmosphere is unbelievable. We are truly the little school with the big heart, and I think we’ve left a big mark on the town of Elkton after 93 years. It’s kind of nice to know we helped mold them.”

Angela Maxwell, also featured in The Dialog story, has been at Immaculate Conception School for 23 years. Her family has a long history at the school and the parish. “It definitely hurts,” she is quoted as saying. “I’m heartbroken to the core. I started as a young lady and I basically grew up at ICS…It has such a strong faith base. My dad went there.

He’s now 70. It’s sad to see it go. It’s part of who I am.”

One of Maxwell’s daughters graduated last year and another was in sixth grade during the 2019-2020 school year. “ICS is very rare. It’s just a special little school. We have our own little world. It’s truly the little school with the big heart.”

A statement submitted by Louise Northrop combined the praise and sadness expressed by many: “Time takes all but memories,” she wrote. “ICS gave me 25-plus years of good memories, strong leadership, dedicated teachers, loving students, a prayerful environment, working hard on subjects and a strong focus on the needs of others. I am sad that all the wonderful memories of the past will not be experienced by today’s children, parents and teachers.

Another testimonial included the following: “The little school with a big heart has never been a more perfect term to describe the school where our children were educated. The school instilled and reinforced values that our four daughters still utilize today raising their own families.

Sister Ana Mae was fair but strict when she had to be. She knew her students and treated them all as individuals.

The teachers provided the foundation for our daughters’ future education by providing rigorous curriculum that was invaluable. We are so sorry that future generations will not experience the ICS family community.”

Heather Crouse Quinteros said, “ I will be forever grateful for the exceptional teachers and staff that supported my daughter during her first academic experiences. Her thirst for learning can largely be accredited to them and to ‘The Little School with the Big Heart.’ ICS has always been a home to the children, filled with love and faith, that can never be replaced.”

From Karleen O’Brien-McCann: “Immaculate Conception has been part of our family since 2011 when my eldest daughter started preschool. Our family has had the pleasure of having four of our five daughters attend ICS. We love the challenging academics, faith-based environment, extracurricular activities, caring and attentive staff, and most importantly the family atmosphere. My daughters Continued on Page 22

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Immaculate Conception School Continued from Page 21

love how they knew everyone and everyone looked out for them. They developed close friendships and knew that the teachers were there to support them. I personally have been blessed to teach at the school for the past four years and the team was amazing to work with. I loved the excitement of the students and their desire to learn. Their dedication to service and to the Catholic Faith is admirable for their age and is a reflection of the school’s mission. Being involved in the school and all of the fun activities like Science Explorers, Talent Show, Waffles and Raffles and the school musicals has been extremely rewarding. Most importantly, it was great to be involved in activities with both my children and my students. The blending of students, families, parish children, and ICS staff was such a beloved asset that is rare to find. Our family will miss ICS greatly. I had hoped that my five daughters would all graduate from ICS, but I am thankful for the time we had.”

Social media has been full of tributes to ICS, and this one from LinkedIn is representative of the widespread public admiration: “After nearly a century of educating, Immaculate Conception School will be closing a chapter in history. May the memories, the laughter, the community

and the ultimate legacy left behind continue to warm our hearts and minds. Those who worked so very hard to build this school up and make it more than a few brick walls can never be thanked enough.”

A combined statement from Pastor Yeakel and Principal Bill Schilling summarized their feelings as the school year ended for the final time at ICS: “We are proud of our unique history and the amazing accomplishments of our school community. Our school truly does have a big heart – and that heart will always live on through the legacy and the accomplishments of our graduates and parish community.”

Continued on Page 24

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Immaculate Conception School Continued from Page 22

What follows is a legacy/Obituary

by Marcella-Murray Lockwood and her daughter, Jacqueline M. Lockwood: Immaculate Conception School, (1927 – 2020) Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic School, “ICS,” “The Parochial School,” “The Parish School,” of Elkton, Maryland, quietly closed its doors for the final time on Wednesday, June 3, 2020 after a fierce battle with forces greater than itself. Immaculate Conception School was 93 years old.

Born in 1927 from humble beginnings, Immaculate Conception School evolved from a parish of spiritually dedicated residents of the Eastern Shore community of Cecil County. Several years prior to the parish church cornerstone etched 1846, neighboring Catholic farmers labored and hauled piles of stone and boulder from “Wilna Farm,” adjoining the now present home of the Oblate Fathers House in Childs, Maryland to Bridge Street. The widowed owner of the farm generously aided in purchasing the original parish property in town. The intent was for the construction of a church—one for the people, by the people.

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It quickly became evident that to continue to service this community, not only was this church a must, but a little Catholic school was needed for the children of Cecil to safely learn and grow. Thus, a four-room schoolhouse was formally introduced to this community by the early 1900s, before moving to Elkton Heights with the construction of a school campus fit for 500 pupils.

Continued on Page 26

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Immaculate Conception School Continued from Page 24

Generations of strong spiritual leaders aided in establishing such a remarkable foundation of an educational community, one that evoked both marvel and envy to all.

As the very first parochial school to exist on the entire Eastern Shore, this school was physically constructed in a similar manner to the church and opened in 1927, a dream and vision come to life by the faithful leadership of Father Arnd, in the footsteps of the Jesuit Fathers of Old Bohemia, Saint Francis Xavier Church, completely free of debt on the day it was opened, which was unheard of for the times. Through the guidance of the Ursuline Sisters of the Eastern Province, the Serviam spirit led the teaching ministry within the schoolhouse from 1927 to 1930, followed by the devoutly faithful and inspirational Franciscan spirit of the Glen Riddle Franciscan Sisters of Saint Francis of Philadelphia, whose tireless community of women grew the school to the success and standards known today.

This school and its legacy is survived by the world contributions of hundreds of successful alumnae and alumni, many whom are multi-generational; those faithfully supportive parishioners, parents, guardians, and friends who fought for justice up until the end; the teachers and staff who devoted

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years to serving as Third Order lay-Franciscans, dedicating their life’s work to shaping and teaching the young minds of ICS beyond academics; as well as anyone who has or will have the privilege of knowing, working with, befriending or interacting with any of those individuals listed—a privilege of one who will undoubtedly experience the unrivaled preparedness, exceptional character, and dare-say magic of a “true ICS-er.”

ICS was predeceased by the strong administrative leadership of Sr Anna May McFeeley, whose great vision, belief in the future of Catholic education, savvy business sense, straightforward attitude, and steadfast faith in each and every one of her students made ICS a force to be reckoned with. She lived the mission of Immaculate Conception School, never wavering in her vocation.

Immaculate Conception School will remain a beloved pillar of the community of Cecil and surrounding counties.

Families, friendships, legacies and traditions have all been forged through this institution which provided not merely a building for students to learn, but a gathering place for beloved memories to be made.

Excelling in every area imaginable, the record shows ICS

out-ranking every other diocesan competitor for the better part of 30 years; scholastically in academics, true in faith, competitively in athletics, strength in service, and trust in spirit. As published by another source, it is stated that “the school’s greatest assets are the energized members of the school community.”

For a small school “the service performed by this community is remarkable” and “children at every grade level are learning lifelong lessons about their responsibility to

offer service to others.” What was provided selflessly at Immaculate Conception School has often been imitated, yet never duplicated, and never to be experienced again; a grave misfortune of those left with its absence.

May it be known that such a conclusion to this chapter of this community’s history deserves so much more than a quiet turn of the page. While the loss of such a paramount cornerstone will be and should be mourned with utmost reverence, the legacy must be celebrated and the spirit of ICS remembered and continued by each of us. Memories of laughter from the playground, the camaraderie of teammates cheering during the infamous Field Day, the shuffle of classes through the halls, the call for first- or second-carriders, the thud of the library book-drop, the adoration titles to Mary carefully lettered above every doorway, the click of the office loudspeaker… all little blessings to help us each keep the faith and remember how this little Catholic community has shaped the greater world!

More so, perhaps the sweetest memory of ICS can best be illustrated and understood by one simple string of words; a statement crafted by a “true ICS-er” herself: Immaculate Conception School, “the little school with the BIG heart.”

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|Cecil County Life Q&A|

Photo by Richard L. Gaw

Throughout the year, O’Shea coordinates several opportunities for visitors to visit Cecil County farms, in order to educate the public about what is grown on farms – and what animals live there.

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QA

Maureen O’Shea In Cecil County, the business of farming is big business. Since she began her position as the Agribusiness Coordinator for the Cecil County Office of Economic Development in 2019, Maureen O’Shea has connected farmers to both customers and opportunities, though social media, events and education. Cecil County Life recently spoke with Maureen to discuss the impact of COVID-19 on the industry and to speculate on the longrange forecast for farming in the county. The future is a bright one, she said.

Continued on Page 30

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As part of her role as the Agribusiness Coordinator for the Cecil County Office of Economic Development, Maureen O’Shea works with farmers to promote the many agricultural resources available in the county.

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Maureen O’Shea Continued from Page 29

Your job has been to provide steerage and opportunities to the agricultural industry of the county, and so much of the responsibility of the position is targeted to marketing, education and increasing awareness of the industry.

Because we are several generations removed from the agricultural life, there is a lot of educating that needs to be done. That inspired the Harvest Dinner idea, which we host during the peak of our harvest season, and serves as a celebration of the many kinds of crops we produce in Cecil County.

We are a very diverse agricultural community, with a wide variety of products that are sold right off the farm, from fresh ice cream to milk to vegetables to grain to poultry to meat.

The Harvest Dinner is meant to educate the public, in an effort to say, ‘You can get all of these items right here in Cecil County, and you can make a dinner that tastes this good, right from farms that are within a few minutes of your dinner table.’

There is a perception that says that all Cecil County grows is corn and soybeans. It was that perception that inspired me to create cecilgrown.com, a directory that points our consumers to the many resources easily available to them.

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How do you gauge the growing appreciation factor for those in the agricultural and farming industry?

I have been seeing quite an uptick in the ‘Buy Local’ movement, and people interested in where they are purchasing their food from. The main way I am able to gauge this growing interest is through our social media pages. People want to know more about the ethics behind agriculture, such as why we are spraying pesticides on our apples, and what the difference is between ‘organic’ and ‘conventional.’

Social media has played a huge role in this education, and they’re coming to our pages as a reliable resource. There are a lot of unknowns out there that people are beginning to get interested in knowing more about.

How has that been magnified during the pandemic?

In a way, COVID-19 has become this golden egg for some of our direct-to-consumer retail farmers. When the grocery store produce shelves became empty, it was as if light bulbs went off above many of our consumers. They asked in a panic, ‘Where do I find food?’ and they quickly answered, ‘Oh, right, from our farms.’ In Cecil County, we are surrounded by farms and it reminded a lot of people, by necessity, where their food comes from.

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Let’s talk more about the impact of COVID-19 on the agricultural industry in Cecil County. It has forced farmers to rethink how they can get their products into the hands of the consumers, yes?

With the impact of COVID-19 on our farms and our food system, we’re seeing a lot of farmers pivot by expanding their product lines and partnering with each other. A great example of this has been with the Flying Plow Farm in Rising Sun, who has created a major food hub in Cecil County by opening up an online ordering network in cooperation with other farms in the county. It’s a completely new system that allows farmers to sell their products directly to Flying Plow, who in turn gives consumers the opportunity to select and pay for their food in advance and online, and either pick up their order at farm markets or have it delivered right to their door.

Continued on Page 32

Do you wish to put the goodness of Cecil County farms on your family table?

The Cecil County Office of Economic Development has created an interactive map that connects you to countywide resources, including where to find local produce, fresh eggs, nurseries, greenhouses, breweries, wineries and so much more. Visit www.cecilgrown.com.

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Maureen O’Shea Continued from Page 31

From a local, national and global standpoint, the agricultural industry is a massively-changing one. Standards, regulations and practices are in constant revision. New markets for food distribution have opened up. Demand for healthier food is on a rapid rise. Social media has created easier access to data and information. Within that spinning matrix, how do see the Cecil County agricultural industry growing along with those changes?

We’ve been using the hash tag, “Local is the New Normal.” It represents a newfound appreciation for the fact that the food is grown right here in Cecil County. It’s fresh. It’s not overpriced. We know where it comes from.

We know how many hands have touched it, and we know how many hands did not touch it.

The whole mind shift change happening is going to be a very good thing for our local farmers, and in fact, it’s given us the impetus to continue to grow our retail market.

We also have the room to create more opportunities for direct-to-consumer farmers.

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What is your place in Cecil County?

I have so many favorite places, but I have two special places. The first is Chesapeake City, because I love being in that town and along its waterfront. My other favorite spot is on the Bohemia River in Earleville. There are spots to jump out of a kayak and go for a quick swim there.

You throw a dinner party. Who will you invite?

My grandfather. He passed away five years ago, and so much of my life has changed in my life since then. I get married in October, and I would like him to meet my fiancée. I would also like to invite Carl Sagan to the party, as well.

What items can always be found in your refrigerator?

I am a huge fan of sourdough bread, so you will always see sourdough bread starter in my refrigerator. I also have some sort of fermented vegetables in there, especially carrots. You can also find pickles and IPA beer.

Richard L. Gaw

For organizations doing business in Cecil County who need a network of services and resources,

The Cecil County Chamber of Commerce

is a membership organization that supports, connects and advocates.

We Are Your County-wide Connection.

Your Chamber of Commerce is here to INFORM, PROMOTE, CONNECT, ADVOCATE! Event and meeting dates can be found at cecilchamber.com under Upcoming Chamber Events MEMBER ORIENTATIONS

MINGLE CHATS

Join us for Chamber Orientation to become familiar with all aspects of the Chamber and meet new members. Whether you’re a new or existing member, Member Orientation is a great way to connect with your Chamber.

Make connections with people in the business community by networking at one of our Mingle Chats!

FIRST RESPONDERS APPRECIATION DINNER Recognizing our Local Heroes November Date to be determined

ROUNDTABLES Long-term Care – Bi-monthly meeting to bring like-minded professionals together to share best practices, information, and resources to the benefit of all.

Network Marketing – Monthly meeting to exists to support members in the areas of Social Media, Marketing, Advertising and Peer to Peer Networking.

Nonprofit – Quarterly meeting open to all Cecil County nonprofit organizations and affiliated agencies.

216 E. Pulaski Hwy, Suite 120, Elkton, MD 21921 410-392-3833 • www.cecilchamber.com • info@cecilchamber.com www.cecilcountylife.com | Summer 2020 | Cecil County Life

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|Cecil County Education|

Cecil College is relevan ‘Own Your Future’ theme Programs prepare students for in-demand careers in today’s world

By Drewe Phinny Contributing Writer

Options include associate degrees, certificate programs and non-credit classes.

The curriculum is a cornuhere was a time when copia of innovative education college students would and training opportunities in choose a major in pursuit an ever-evolving employment of a degree that would (hopemarket. “Cecil College provides fully) provide them with the relevant, responsive pathways education necessary to excel for new and returning students in their chosen livelihoods. to own their future in today’s Although that kind of learning workforce,” said Dr. Christy was a solid building block for Dryer, the vice president of acasuccess, the path to a job was demic programs. somewhat narrow in scope.

This year, Cecil College has Over the past few years, things received some pretty impreshave really changed due to sive honors, including dynamic and responsive institudesignation as a National Center tions like Cecil College. When of Academic Excellence (CAE) they say, “Own Your Future,” in Cyber Defense Education by they mean it. From S.T.E.M. the National Security Agency degrees to skilled trades, Cecil (NSA) and the Department of College offers a wide variety Courtesy photo of educational choices that are Skilled trades are a vital part of our nation’s infrastructure and Homeland Security (DHS). “This not only attractive and satisfying economy. The college offers many opportunities to become means graduates of the program are poised for success in this to students of all ages, but also workforce-ready. exciting field, having succeeded representative of fulfilling roles in today’s career landscape that need to be filled. From in a curriculum which meets those agencies’ standards,” healthcare professional to cyber-security expert to profes- said Dryer.

The college also offers a new associate degree in sional truck driver, the possibilities are endless. A college Agricultural Sciences to meet the employment needs of the education is literally a whole new world these days.

Cecil College is centrally located in Maryland’s most county and more broadly, the region.

Students can earn their associate in engineering at Cecil northeastern county, with campuses in the towns of North East, Elkton and Port Deposit. The college features a diverse College, transfer, and finish their bachelor’s degree with student population, with an enrollment of approximate- Frostburg State University on the Cecil College campus, or ly 2,500 credit students and 3,400 non-credit students. they can switch into the Frostburg program from another

T

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vant with eme pursuit. The application is designed so students can complete their bachelor’s degree at Cecil or at the Frostburg campus.

According to Dryer, the Associate of Science Engineering Program offers a selection of engineering and other natural Continued on Page 36

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Cecil College Continued from Page 35

and physical science courses for students who are interested in concentrations of aerospace, chemical, computer and engineering sciences.

The curriculum is designed to meet the needs of students who plan to transfer to a college or university that grants a baccalaureate degree in engineering, regardless of concentration.

Under the heading of Visual Communications and the Arts, students can work toward an associate degree in simulation design and gaming, which play a significant role in the rapidly growing field of 3D gaming, an interactive computer entertainment that is graphically presented in the three dimensions of height, weight and depth.

Simulation design helps manufacturers verify and validate the intended function of a product under development, as well as the manufacturability of the product. Also, the word “simulation” is often used as a generic term for computer-aided engineering (CAE).

In addition, Dryer explained, state-of-the-art equipment is available in the VCP labs, photography classrooms, video production programs and fine arts studio competitive with regional four-year institution resources.

For a variety of reasons, healthcare has seen a huge increase in job openings over the past several years.

“Cecil College,” Dryer said, “is committed to educational pathways that lead directly to employment and/or earning a degree.”

Study programs for in-demand jobs include the nationally ranked nursing program as well as those in phlebotomy, paramedic and medical assistant. In an effort to continue relevant education in the current healthcare employment climate, the college has launched a new associate degree in Public Health.

One of the many healthcare jobs that is becoming increasingly popular is physical therapist assistant. As the school website points out, if you’re interested in science, health and physical fitness, and you enjoy helping others overcome challenges, pursuing a degree as a PTA might be for you. As a physical therapist assistant, a person would help individuals of all ages to perform functional activities in their daily lives. Under the direction of a licensed physical therapist, you would work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, private practices, outpatient clinics, home health, nursing homes and schools. The program is full length, full time, five semesters in length, (70 credits) and culminates 36

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Courtesy photo

Through the Early College Academy, students can complete high school with a diploma (or its equivalent) and an associates of arts degree in General Studies.

in an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, which will prepare students to take the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTA’s, required for practice in all states.

There’s a two-minute video on the website called Cecil College Skilled Trades. It’s flashy, informative and a colorful reminder that, these days, everybody is looking for someone who can fix their car, a heat pump or the refrigerator.

It shifts from quick glimpses of forklift operations to HVAC to welding.

Miles Dean, the dean of career and community education, mentioned that basic construction has been added to that group as well as a new diesel technology program as a response to employment needs in the area. Other selling points include “expert instruction” and “workforce ready.”

Just log onto cecil.edu/skilledtrades for more information.

Dean pointed out the current shortage of commercial transportation drivers and how the Cecil College CDL (Commercial Drivers License) program is “a preferred position among regional choices.” This year, the college received a new PDTI certification from the Professional Truck Driver Institute. PDTI certified programs meet a higher standard, operate ethically and professionally and perform more efficiently.

In this laptop world, students are a click away from email Continued on Page 38 www.cecilcountylife.com | Summer 2020 | Cecil County Life

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Cecil College Continued from Page 37

and information, whether they’re in the classroom, the kitchen, or outdoors. Cecil College fits perfectly into this environment with many online certificate programs, and this year has launched two new degree programs. One is an associate of arts degree in general studies and the other is an associate of applied science degree in transportation logistics and management. The College knows students need flexibility in their learning schedules and they have more than met that challenge in this modern era.

As tuitions rise, Cecil College, already a welcome, affordable option to expensive alternatives, also provides high school students several ways to get a head start earning college credit and thereby saving money. Programs include concurrent enrollment, senior waiver, STEM Enrollment, on-site programs, dual enrollment and summer courses.

The Early College Academy (ECA) enrolls students as early as ninth grade. As explained on the website, “Successful students complete high school with a diploma (or equivalent) and an associates of arts degree in general studies from Cecil College.”

Community education is a wide-ranging category that serves students of all ages and interests and the endless possibilities are life-enriching. Choices include learning a language, taking a yoga class, learning computer skills, exploring your artistic abilities and more. In fact, new classes are being added all the time, based on student suggestions.

Adult Basic Education (ABE) courses help you help students prepare for some GED (General Education Development)

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Begin a rewarding career in health professions such as physical therapist assistant.

classes, and the GED program is available for those who want to earn their high school equivalency degree. If a student already has his or her high school diploma, he or she will find help with ways to refresh your academic and life skills in preparation for a job search or getting ready for college. Cecil also offers one-on-one tutoring for those with limited reading ability in the Project Literacy Program. Also, foreign-born adults seeking to improve their communication skills can enroll in the ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) program.

The cost of a Cecil education is much more affordable than other options. In addition, there are scholarships and financial aid available as well as numerous transfer opportunities. If you have the hunger, Cecil will find a way to accommodate your needs.

Cecil College president Dr. Mary Way Bolt does a great job summarizing the assets: “Cecil College is an inclusive, open-access college committed to academic excellence and service to the greater region. The college provides a supportive learning environment to a diverse body of students as they build the skills and knowledge to achieve academic success, prepare to transfer and enter the workforce.

Further, Cecil College fosters intellectual, professional and personal development through lifelong learning opportunities, the arts and community engagement.�

To connect with online services and read the college’s latest updates regarding the coronavirus, visit cecil.edu/ coronavirus.

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|Cecil County Life Photo Essay|

Port De The scintil taste of me

Photos by Jim Coarse Text by Richard L. Gaw This is a photo essay about how food has come to embody the personality of a Cecil County town, but as the next few pages will reveal, there are no photographs of food.

Rather, this photo essay is meant entirely to take its readers on a nostalgic trip to the very recent past and call on them to use their powers of taste and memory in order to remind them that dining in nearby Port Deposit has become the embodiment of what it means to be a foodie town.

Continued on Page 42

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Deposit: ntillating memory

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Photo Essay Continued from Page 40

This photo essay, really, is a journey of words intended to stir up emotions. With this essay, it is our intention to recall the moments you have spent in the company of friends and family around a restaurant table, or bellied up beside a dockside bar on a summer evening.

We wish to bring life again to that feeling of anticipation you have when a favorite entrée arrives before you and there is no better place to be and the world just seems perfect.

You already know the mental photographs. It’s inhaling the sweet summer breezes on the deck at Lee’s Landing Dock Bar, where Key West meets the flavors of down home Maryland on the banks of the Susquehanna… It’s a rotating menu of nearly one dozen beers on tap at the Granite Run Taproom on a Saturday night, while a band plays your favorite songs from when you were a teenager…It’s the first bite on Half-Price Burger Night at Old South Smokehouse, accompanied by an overstuffed spud…

Continued on Page 44

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Photo Essay Continued from Page 42

It’s the Tidewater Chicken Breast stuffed with ham and crabmeat at topped with imperial sauce at the Union Hotel Restaurant & Tavern, or the Oysters Smithfield prepared with country ham and fresh spinach…It’s a heaping slice at D’lorenzo’s Pizza and Grill after a descent down the Tome Steps…It’s Chef Bob Steele’s Hawaiian French Toast during a lazy Sunday brunch at Backfin Blues Bar & Grill, or tucking into the filet Au Poivre at a special occasion dinner…

We request of you only this: To have hope and think big.

The culinary journey of Port Deposit that you’ve just been on in your memory will someday be a delicious reality again, and we promise that it will arrive in the form of a bountiful feast that all of us will savor.

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Cecil College’s O’Brien inducted into Hall of Fame

Courtesy photo

With more than 20 years of NJCAA coaching experience, Charles O’Brien has made a difference in the lives of hundreds of students.

Cecil College’s Charles O’Brien has been inducted into the prestigious NJCAA Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame. O’Brien is among four inductees into the Class of 2020, joined by Walters State’s Ken Campbell, Scott Crampton of Lamar Community College, and Rick Hitt of South Florida State.

“I cannot think of a more deserving person than Charlie O’Brien for being elected into the NJCAA Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame. His dedication to the game, and his commitment to the student athletes that have played for him are second to none,” said Cecil College Director of Athletics Ed Durham. “Coach O’Brien has been committed to the mission and vision of Cecil College and its students. It shows on the baseball field, in the classroom, and in the community.”

O’Brien’s presence throughout the tri-state region goes far beyond the chalk lines on the baseball field. With more than 20 years of NJCAA coaching experience, O’Brien has made a difference in the lives of hundreds of students.

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“This honor came as a huge surprise. It is not my kind of thing, but I am very thrilled and honored to be named to the Hall of Fame,” said O’Brien, who humbly credited others with being responsible for his success. “You don’t get into the Hall of Fame as a coach without great people surrounding you, whether that is the assistant coaches over the years, the administration or staff here at Cecil College and Keystone College. It is my name going into the Hall of Fame, but I think it is really a piece of Cecil baseball going into the Hall of Fame.”

O’Brien is a product of Cecil College baseball, having been approached back in the 1980s by then-coach George “Tom” Wilhide to try out for the Cecil Community College team. He played baseball at Cecil College from 1983 to 1985 before going on to complete his bachelor’s degree from West Chester University.

Following a year of coaching at West Chester, O’Brien took the head coaching position at Keystone College in northern Pennsylvania, where his teams won 136 games.

He returned to Cecil County in 1995 to take a job at the

College and was named head coach in 1997. Under his guidance, the Seahawks have accumulated 586 victories, earning him the Maryland Junior College Conference Baseball Coach of the Year award three times. He was also a three-time recipient of the NJCAA Region XX Coach of the Year, and the 2011 NJCAA Northeast District Coach of the Year.

O’Brien, like many at Cecil College, is a strong advocate of a community college education and providing a helping hand to a brighter future. Outside of his academic advisor duties at Cecil College, O’Brien has given back to the community through numerous avenues, including being a volunteer coach in the Maryland Little League.

“We, and I mean Cecil College, are community and student driven. The faculty and staff are here to make them better, and we do this by being accessible and doing anything we can to help them be successful,” said O’Brien.

“A lot of people would think it is the buildings that make the college. I think it is the faculty and staff, the majority of which are here for the right reason: trying to take a kid from point A to point B.” On the field, O’Brien’s coaching knowledge has impacted student-athletes far beyond Cecil College. He

has committed time to the ABCA, the USA National Team, Olympic teams, and the Pan-Am Games. From 2008-2013, O’Brien was selected as the Maryland Junior College Baseball Coaches Association President.

But he hasn’t been alone on this journey. Right by his side was his wife of 26 years, Lynn. Along with their three children - Charles Jr., Katie, and Patrick – it has been a family affair.

“Anytime you have success, you have to give up a little bit of something and sometimes that is family life. There were certain things they had to sacrifice such as a vacation cut short or not taken. They are going into the Hall of Fame with me,” said O’Brien.

For more than 23 years, O’Brien has been working to pay it forward. As a baseball coach, he is very proud to have led his team to the 2011 College World Series. But as a mentor to young men, he is most proud of the impact and guidance he has been able to provide.

“Every year the changeover is incredible. We have kids who start here and don’t think they can pass a college class, and the next thing they know they are finishing their four-year degree. That is what hits me right here,” said O’Brien, pointing to his heart.

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Cecil College alumna thanks Foundation for changing her life With the ever-growing burden of college debt, never before have students been in more need of a protagonist to realize their full potential. Hundreds of patrons of education have supported the Cecil College Foundation for years, allowing students such as Erin Elburn to

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Erin Elburn

realize her potential and live out her dream of becoming an engineer. “Without the financial support of the scholarships I received from the Cecil County Government Scholarship and the Cecil College Foundation, I don’t know if I would

be where I am today,” said Elburn, who is currently in her junior year at the University of Delaware.

A native of Rising Sun, Elburn graduated from Cecil College in May 2019 with associate degrees in mechanical engineering, mathematics, physics, and engineering science. She wanted to stay close to home to begin her college education, allowing her to avoid racking up massive student loan debt.

“It was a good financial move for me, and when I learned I was receiving those scholarships, everything fell in place. I was able to be completely focused on my academics knowing that the financial burden of going to school wouldn’t fall on the shoulders of my parents,” said Elburn.

Annually, the Cecil College Foundation provides more than 300 scholarships, benefiting traditional and nontraditional students.

National data shows students in a degree program who have received a scholarship, were twice as likely to complete the degree as those who didn’t apply for a scholarship. The data also revealed more than 90 percent of Cecil College students work 20 hours a week to make ends meet. Over a 15-week semester, a $100 scholarship means that students can work one less hour a week to put

toward their academic pursuits and family.

“Their generous donations have helped people within the community who would otherwise not have had the opportunity to go to college, and in turn, the community suffers. It enabled me to have a good start to my college career,” said Elburn.

With the financial burden lifted, Elburn was able to embrace the full college experience by getting involved in the Student Leadership Council, working as a social media assistant for the College’s marketing department, and volunteering in the physics lab for the annual Girls in STEM workshops.

Going forward, Elburn has secured a summer internship at Aberdeen Proving Ground collecting data.

In its inception, Cecil Community College was founded to be a local, affordable alternative to a four-year education. Cecil College has become much more, providing students a way to a better life and community through the pursuit of an education. Annually, the Cecil College Foundation gives out more than 360 scholarships totaling more than $355,000 in aid.

To donate to the Cecil College Foundation, visit cecil.edu/donate. To contact the Foundation, call 410-287-1146, or email to foundation@cecil.edu.

www.cecilcountylife.com | Summer 2020 | Cecil County Life

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Biasucci takes the helm of Cecil College Foundation Cecil College has announced the appointment of Ashley Biasucci to the leadership role of Associate Director of the Cecil College Foundation and Alumni Development.

This position, for which Biasucci is acutely qualified, is vital to the success of students at Cecil College.

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Ashley Biasucci

In its inception, Cecil Community College was founded to be a local, affordable alternative to a four-year education. Over the last five decades, Cecil College has become much more, providing students with a path to a better life and community through the pursuit of an

education. Moving forward, Cecil College will continue to challenge and prepare students to meet the workforce needs of local businesses and industries.

“I am extremely passionate about the Foundation’s mission of developing financial and other resources to help our students. We help students achieve their dreams and reach goals they never thought possible.

We are also extremely grounded in our community; creating alliances that better serve our students and community. This is something I truly believe in, as I see it make a difference in multiple lives every day,” said Biasucci.

The Foundation assists students by offering financial support in the form of scholarships. Data shows students in a degree program who have received a scholarship are twice as likely to complete the degree as those who didn’t apply for a scholarship. The data also revealed more than 90 percent of Cecil College students work 20 hours a week to make ends meet.

Over a 15-week semester, a $100 scholarship means that a student can work one less hour a week and put that time toward their academic pursuits and family.

“My goal is to cultivate new relationships and student opportunities with board members, donors and

community members,” said Biasucci. “As I step into this position, my immediate goal is to successfully complete the major fundraising events we have coming up in the next six months, but I have a vision to increase the community’s awareness of the Foundation and all that it does for our Cecil College students.”

With a bachelor’s degree in business administration and finance from Towson University, Biasucci has the background and understanding of meeting the needs of local businesses by providing access to education for tomorrow’s workforce. She is currently working toward a master’s degree in leadership from Piedmont International University.

“The opportunities for advancing the foundation are endless in my eyes. I will strive every day to make sure our cause is known and ensure that we are working towards student success,” said Biasucci. “I am excited to work with my team and committee members to make these events run smoothly and maximize the financial resources for our students.”

To learn more about how to help Cecil County’s youth own their futures through scholarships at Cecil College, contact Ashley Biasucci by calling 410-287-1044 or email abiasucci@cecil.edu.

www.cecilcountylife.com | Summer 2020 | Cecil County Life

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|Cecil County Tourism| While COVID-19 has already led to the cancelation of several popular Cecil County events in 2020, the county’s tourism office has continued to move forward with smart ideas, collaboration with other agencies and a commitment to support businesses and the community it serves

Navigating through the pandemic

All photos courtesy of the Cecil County Office of Tourism

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By Richard L. Gaw Staff Writer

Zoo. The explorers hop in a canoe to float along the Elk, Northeast, Susquehanna, Sassafras, and Bohemia rivers. The moms and dads and kids rejoice in the feeling of holding n June 20, Cecil County Tourism sponsored the Ike a freshly picked summer fruit at Milburn Orchards, and the Foundation’s 5th annual Celebrity Pro-Am Fishing hungry and the thirsty crowd the restaurants and cafes in Chesapeake City, North East and Port Deposit.

Tournament at the Anchor Marina in Tourism in Cecil County celebrates a widethe Upper Bay of North East. spread panorama of activities, history and Despite the rain, the fish were biting, and destinations, but like every other agency of its 260 anglers on 130 boats competed for prizes. kind in the United States, the Office of Cecil It was the largest collection of boats in the County Tourism has been forced to creatively tournament’s history, which was made more navigate the economic shutdown that began significant because it was the first time the soon after COVID-19 arrived. event had been held in Cecil County.

They began the same way that other tourism Perhaps even more important, the tournament was a success despite the ominous cloud By autumn, it is anticipated departments had done – rely on the power of of a global pandemic that has hung over the that the annual rite of pumpkin the message and funnel the message through selecting will be available at the internet. Soon, the Cecil County Tourism normally bustling industry of tourism in Cecil most Cecil County farms. page was filled with “Buy & Eat Local” informaCounty for the past several months.

Throughout the year, the reasons to visit Cecil County tion, weekly fun puzzles that when put together revealed remain so numerous that they absolutely burst at the beautiful Cecil County photos, and a “Cecil Eats” contest. It seams. The adventurous explore the headwaters of the offered “Time Travel Thursdays” which shared weekly tidbits Chesapeake Bay at Elk Neck State Park. The curious learn of Cecil County history.

Continued on Page 54 about diverse and unique species at the Plumpton Park

O

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Cecil Tourism Continued from Page 53

Its “Foodie Fridays” continued to celebrate the local cuisine.

“Creativity was the key,” said Cecil County Tourism Manager Sandy Maruchi-Turner. “We had a number of brainstorming sessions where we asked, ‘What are we going to do, how are we going to do it and how will we continue to help our business community?’ We felt that the immediate need at the time was to provide messaging to remind local residents to continue to support their restaurants and their shops that were limited to doing take-out, online orders and curbside deliveries. We tried to connect people with businesses for a number of weeks and keep them up to date.”

Maruchi-Turner said that even before the pandemic hit, the Cecil County Office of Tourism had already begun to lay the groundwork to expand the Chesapeake Country Scenic Byway and designate it as an All-American Road -- the northern gateway of which is at the intersection of Route 285 and Route 213 in North Chesapeake City. To do so, the office entered into a partnership with Eastern Shore of Maryland tourism offices, Eastern Shore heritage areas, and the State Office of Tourism to embark on a joint

Much of the focus of Cecil County tourism in the last few months has centered on the many outdoor activities that remain open and easily available during the pandemic.

application to the Federal Scenic Byway program. They’ll learn in September whether they receive the prestigious AllAmerican Road designation.

“The All-American Road application wouldn’t have happened without close partnership of multiple jurisdictions Continued on Page 56

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and organizations,” Maruchi-Turner said. “The COVID 19 pandemic has created increased demand for scenic byways across the country with people traveling less by air and more by road trips, so the virus gave this project new meaning.”

No amount of creativity or long-range planning, however, could stop the pandemic from canceling several of the county’s most anticipated events of this and any year. Most May, June and July events were removed from the calendar, and the list goes on. In August, the Lotus Blossom Festival in Mt. Harmon, the Lions Antique Car Show in Chesapeake City, the Waterfront Festival in Perryville, Elkton Classic Car Shows and Elkton First Fridays will all be canceled.

The Elkton Fall Fest and various car shows, all scheduled for September, will also be postponed for 2020, and in October, The Maryland 5 Star equestrian event at Fair Hill will be canceled, as will the Upper Bay Decoy Show.

‘Roadmap of hope’ At a press conference on May 13, the door to the reopening of Maryland and, subsequently, the state’s tourism industry arrived, when Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan announced that the state would move from a “stay at home order” to a “safer at home” advisory.

To many businesses and agencies, Gov. Hogan’s “Stage One Recovery” served as a roadmap of hope that reopened retail businesses at 50 percent capacity, as well as reopened some personal services, small businesses and boating, fishing, outdoor dining and shopping.

To many residents of Cecil County – as well as those from nearby states who use the county for recreation – the very cautious and delicate loosening of the restrictions that had shut much of the state for the past several months was a much-needed relief.

“After being cooped up and having cabin fever, people were craving outdoor experiences,” Maruchi-Turner said.

“As outdoor activities in Maryland started opening, we touted our trails and waterways. We put the spotlight on our waterfront parks, walking paths, fresh air, and beautiful sunsets. We encouraged casting a line to nab a catch, and shared thematic information such as ‘Picnic & Paddle’ and ‘Family & Farm Fun.’ “As additional opening is unfolding, we’re shifting to the celebration of quirky national days and how they relate to Cecil County, such as National Fried Chicken Day, National Father and Daughter Take a Walk Day, All American Pet Photo Day, National Cow Appreciation Day, and more.”

Maruchi-Turner said that a big bonus of the county’s tourism is in its reasonable proximity to nearby Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware and Washington, D.C.

“We have great parks, waterways, and over 200 miles of shoreline,” she said. “We have outdoor destinations where social distancing can easily be achieved. This has helped bring back longtime visitors, and has attracted new ones.”

If the green light is back on for tourism in Cecil County, it is at best a blinking green light, one that will be measured event by event and visitor by visitor, and one that will be dotted with cautious optimism.

“Because none of us have ever dealt with this virus before, we don’t yet know what it’s going to do, so therefore, we can’t just assume that we should leave it in our rear-view mirror,” Maruchi-Turner said. “Working together will be the key to maneuvering successfully through unprecedented times.

We’ve stayed in close contact with our tourism industry businesses to stay in tune with issues and concerns. The tourism offices throughout the state continue to work closely together as a team.

“As we move forward in Cecil County, that team work will become more critical than ever.”

To contact Staff Writer Richard L. Gaw, email rgaw@chestercounty.com.

Continued on Page 58

The Turkey Point Lighthouse.

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Cecil Tourism Continued from Page 57

Fall/Winter Events in Cecil County Due to COVID-19, the following scheduled events are subject to change or be cancelled. Please visit the listed websites for up-to-date information. To learn more about Cecil County Tourism, visit www.ccgov.org/government/ tourism August Sundays, 6 to 8 p.m. – Summer Music in the Park, Pell Gardens, Chesapeake City, www.chesapeakecity.com August Sundays, 1 to 4 p.m. – The Hub Farmer’s Market at the Broken Spoke Winery, Earleville, www.brokenspokewinery.com August 1 – Caribbean Wine Splash at the Dove Valley Vineyard, Rising Sun, www.dovevalleywine.com August 8 – Peach Harvest Party at Milburn Orchards, Elkton, www.milburnorchards.com August 21, 22, 23 – Super Games at OXCC Paintball, Chesapeake City, www.oxcc.com

August 22 – Rockin’ Raspberry Harvest Party at Milburn Orchards, Elkton, www.milburnorchards.com Beginning Labor Day Weekend, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. -“You-Pick Apples” at Milburn Orchards, Elkton, www.milburnorchards.com September Sundays, from 1 to 4 p.m. – The Hub Farmer’s Market, Broken Spoke Winery, www.brokenspokewinery. com September 4-6 – Yellowbullet Nationals at the Cecil County Dragway, Rising Sun, www.cecilcountydragway. com September 5 – Fireworks on the Canal in Chesapeake City, www.chespaeakecity.com September 12, 3 to 7 p.m. – Tap Into The Tavern / Beer & Wine Festival at Historic Rodgers Tavern, Perryville, www.perryvillemd.org Continued on Page 60

We encourage local organizations, schools, civic and fraternal groups and churches to submit news releases.

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Steven Hoffman.....................................................Editor Richard L. Gaw.............................................Staff Writer Brenda Butt.............................................Office Manager Tricia Hoadley ...............................................Art Director Diane Blanche Stirrat.............................Graphic Designer Alan E. Turns ....................................Advertising Director Teri Turns........................................Advertising Executive Helen E. Warren ..............................Advertising Executive

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Cecil Tourism Continued from Page 58

September 26 – Brew at the Zoo at Plumpton Park Zoo, Rising Sun, www.plumptonparkzoo.org September 27, 1 to 3 p.m. – Sinatra in the Park at Historic Rodgers Tavern, Perryville, www.perryvillemd.org Weekends from September 27 to November 2 – OXCC Paintball at Zombie Park, Chesapeake City, www.oxcc.com Friday and Saturday Nights in October – Zombies at the Zoo at Plumpton Park Zoo, Rising Sun, www.plumptonparkzoo.com October 10, 5 to 9 p.m. – Bull & Oyster Roast at Historic Mt. Harmon Plantation, Earleville, www.mountharmon.org October 24 & 25, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Colonial Festival & Market Faire at Mt. Harmon Plantation, Earleville, www.mountharmon.org December 5, 12 p.m. – Cecil County Christmas Parade in North East, www.northeastmd.org December 5 – Poplar Hall Christmas Village in Chesapeake City, www.chesapeakecity.com December 5 & 6, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. – Yuletide Festival at Mt. Harmon Plantation, Earleville, www.mountharmon.org December 12, 6 p.m. – Candlelight Tour at Historic S. Chesapeake City, www.chesapeakecity.org

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A giraffe at the Plumpton Park Zoo.

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