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AROUND THE PARK AGAIN By Sharon Lee Tegler

Lots of news from Severna Park Community Center this week. Particularly exciting for regular lap swimmers was the long awaited reopening of the community center’s main pool. Though required by COVID guidelines to swim by appointment only, Ingrid Savicnac, Tegler brothers, Eric and Jan, and Heroes of Tomorrow fitness program trainee Connor McNulty, were happy to be back,

To comply with Governor Hogan’s Stay At Home Order of March 23, the entire center was forced to shut down…..which turned out to be fortuitous for the pool.

Instead of following SPCC’s normal practice of shutting down for a week in August to drain and clean the main pool, the staff chose to do it during the shutdown. Once drained , it was discovered that vital repairs were needed for a cracked expansion joint according to community center executive director Sarah Elder. After brief consideration, SPCC’s board decided to go ahead with a total renovation.

Shelley Beigel, director of programs, showed off the many renovations Tuesday afternoon. She also addressed the safety procedures instituted by SPCC’s aquatics program to comply with COVID-19 guidelines.

“In addition to replacing the expansion joint, the entire pool was resurfaced with all new racing tiles,” Beigel said. “White coping stones were installed around the edge of the pool along with cobalt blue tiles. For the first time, we installed steps into the pool with a handrail and we repainted the walls.”

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She said social distancing has been implemented by limiting the number of swimmers and requiring them to schedule an appointment. With fewer people, the lanes can be appropriately spaced apart.

While completely renovated and refreshed, the locker rooms and showers may not currently be used by swimmers. They must arrive showered and dressed to swim and must place their belongings on a single assigned chair.

Signs are posted reminding everyone to stay in their swim lanes and bright blue cones at six foot intervals around the edge of the pool encourage proper distancing.

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Lifeguards are on duty throughout swim sessions and must wear masks except when required to enter the water for rescue or assistance.

Like all the lifeguards, Nathan Rosner feels it’s great to be back on duty. He actually returned as lifeguard for SPCC’s popular therapy pool prior to the main pool reopening. The therapy pool (a greatly needed community resource) didn’t require renovations so was able to open in late June.

Pointing out floats, kick boards and other flotation devices swimmers may avail themselves of, Rosner said the equipment is sanitized after each use. Handrails, chairs and other surfaces are wiped down after each session.

McNulty said he doesn’t mind observing the restrictions.

“I don’t mind needing to make and appointment. I’m just glad to be able to swim again.,” he said.

Swimming a steady breast stroke down the length of the far left lane, long-time pool user Ingrid Savicnac seemed in her element.

“I’m so happy. I really missed swimming,” she said.

Their first time back, the Tegler brothers, who are normally river swimmers in the summer and pool swimmers throughout the winter, were particularly pleased.

“The water quality in all the rivers has been very up and down this summer because of algae blooms and runoff from the storms so it’s good to have the pool back as an option,” Jan said.

Not surprisingly, as the 1:30 to 2:30 group of swimmers were preparing to leave, another group with reservations were spaced six feet apart at the desk in the lobby waiting to sign in.

There’s more news from the Severna Park Community Center. Elder reports that the 25th Anniversary Gala scheduled for October at the Hilton Hotel has been postponed till spring because of concern about the pandemic.

“Instead, it’s being replaced by a Drive-By-Gala with a twist,” she said. “The event will be held at the community center from 3 to 5 pm on October 24. A gala committee led by Ellen Kleinknecht, Patt Haun and Diane Lebbedeff developed the unique twist on a virtual event to raise operating funds.”

Guests to the event will stay in their cars while being treated to live music, guest presenters and a “gala in a box” to take home. Included will be a gift certificate for $50 to one of the area’s fine restaurants, a small bottle of champagne and flute plus a delectable dessert from a local bakery. For information, visit https://www.spcommunitycenter.org/.

Talent Machine Company successfully stages “Children of Eden” despite daunting obstacles

Staging a musical with a cast of 30 plus young actors is challenging under any circumstances according to Talent Machine Company producer Judy Curbelo. To stage two such musicals in “the age of Covid-19” demands innovation, fortitude and adherence to strict guidelines. The company rose to the challenge.

TMC’s summer youth production of “Willy Wonka” and teen production of “Chlidren of Eden” were in the works since early January. With the easing of Stay At Home Orders and the acquisition of an outdoor venue, the productions could move ahead….. providing COVID-19 guidelines were followed.

“We’d made arrangements with the Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds for their spacious outdoor pavilion for both shows and completely followed their COVID-19 guidelines allowing for 100 socially-distanced audience members ,” Curbelo said.

“Willy Wonka” debuted to an enthusiastic audience July 17th – only to be mistaken by the Anne Arundel County Health Department for another theater’s production. Restrictions were imposed regardless. Though allowed to perform the show that evening, no further tickets could be sold and only small audiences were permitted for subsequent performances.

Thereafter, TMC’s board and staff members debated whether to continue with the “Children of Eden”. Since rehearsals were already well underway, they moved ahead.

Both Curbelo and director Bobby Smith said the obstacles were daunting and the process arduous and complex. The health department permitted “Children of Eden” to be performed provided it were referred to as “a project allowing the actors to practice their craft”. Tickets couldn’t be sold and audiences were limited to one person per cast member.

Performed last weekend before small audiences, the performance was extremely well received. It was filmed for possible use as a fundraiser.

The 31-member cast loved rehearsing and performing the musical in spite of the fact they they wore masks and remained socially distanced throughout the process. The actors, including Braden Andrew who played Adam and Lucy O’Brien who played Eve, expressed their frustration when they observed that sports activities weren’t subject to the same requirements for masks for players or spectators and were permitted unlimited crowd sizes.

A fundraiser may be in the offing for the non-profit Talent Machine Company at a later date and a venue is being sought for a holiday show. For updated information, visit https://talentmachine.com/ .

Kinder Farm Park cancels Harvest Festival

Park visitation has seen a remarkable increase throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the Friends of Kinder Farm Park made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s Harvest Festival. (The annual October event is the park’s most popular drawing thousands of attendees,) Among other events, there’s a good possibility that the popular Jingle Bell Hayride will be held on December 5. For information on upcoming events visit https://kinderfarmpark.org/.

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AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

Tuesday afternoon was sultry to say the least. Yet most of the small retail shops that call Severna Park home were surprisingly busy considering they only recently reopened following the COVID-19 lock-down. Though not by design, a beach theme seemed to prevail in six of the businesses we visited.

At Park Plaza, shoppers strolled between shops ranging from The Wild Bird Center to Image Creators Spa, Salon and Boutique and JOANN Fabric and Craft Store.

A sign outside The Cottage stressed that only 10 people could be in the store at a time to comply with COVID-19 guidelines – a number that is about normal for the store.

Walking through the door, shoppers immediately spotted the shop’s clever “Beach House” display created by several young staffers.

Wearing designer masks made locally, staffers Morgan Hall and Emma Moore were excited to be back at work and doing a brisk business at the checkout counter.

Manager Courtney Coughy said The Cottage offered online shopping throughout the lock-down so transitioning back to being open was relatively easy but held some surprises.

“Who’d have thought face masks would be this year’s fashion statement,” Coughy said.

She added that customers seemed delighted to be visiting the store in spite of the requirement to wear masks.. They were very interested in the popular Vera Bradley handbags marked down 50% for an end of summer sale and loved the “Maryland Table” with its Eastern Shore motif and items ranging from china and pottery to Old Bay seasonings.

Further down the plaza, the beach theme was carried through at Side Street Framers & Gift Gallery with its “Sidewalk Sale” where artwork featured crabs.

Inside, were oyster shell prints by local artist Kim Hovell and beautiful displays of Sea Glass jewelry from Jessica Graves and Cathy Kelly

Co-owner Dawn Wilson noted that Side Street Framers made several changes to comply with COVID-19 guidelines. They’d offered online ordering with curbside pick-up for several weeks while working to rearrange the store for its opening on June 1.

“We moved our picture framing operation to the back of the store and protected that area with a Plexiglas screen between ourselves and the customer,” Wilson said. “That allowed us to create an open and airy space at the front of the store for artwork and objects for the home that we really like”

She noted that sales have been picking up fairly well – particularly the framing business for which there is always demand.

Across Park Plaza at Park Home, customers strolled leisurely past billowing pillows, racks of candles, trendy vinyl floor cloths and a handsome black antique chest restored and hand painted by co-owner Heather Summers.

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Husband and co-owner Scott pointed out that the chest had been sold. The Summers said they implemented proper state-mandated changes related to the pandemic before opening June 1st.

Customer Eliza Huebner had lots to choose from as she browsed the shelves with a shopping basket of toys on her arm.

“We’re going to the beach this weekend so I’m getting toys for our vacation,” she said. “I have a four-year-old girl and a little boy who is one-and-a-half. As you can see my basket’s getting full.”

According to Franklin’s Toys‘ owner Stephen Kaufmann, summer is usually a slow season and was a bit slower than usual when he reopened his Severna Park and Annapolis stores June 1. To comply with all Covid guidelines, he adjusted store hours which are Monday thru Thursday from 10 am till 6 pm, Friday and Saturday from 10 am to 8 pm and Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm.

“As people have become more comfortable shopping, sales are picking up – especially for hot selling items and anything outdoors,” Kaufmann said. “Since the pandemic, board games are more popular than ever but what’s really exploded are sales of jigsaw puzzles. Puzzle sales globally since COVID started are up 400 %.

The hottest trend at Franklin’s Toys is jigsaw puzzles. Since COVID=19, sales globally are up 400%

At Savvy Consignment at 545 Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard in Olde Severna Park, outdoor and indoor furnishings include a shady wooden bench, an airy table set for six and racks and racks of summer clothing including beachwear.

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Savvy owner Stacey Cassidy said business has been good at the consignment store considering the oppresive weather. Social distancing is not a problem as there is plenty of room for customers . (In fact, half-capacity for the spacious store is 52 people.)

“We were a bit challenged because, when we closed in March for the lock-down, we had a store full of winter clothes. By the time we reopened, we’d missed our entire spring season,” Cassidy said. “However, two weeks before we were allowed to have customers in the store on June 1, we accepted curbside consignments of summer clothes. Consequently, we were well stocked when we opened our doors.”

Although wearing masks, Savvy Consignment’s customers seemed quite content while browsing for those special treasures. Many were “regulars” happy to be back.

Owners Danielle and Lance Bowen said The Blended Essentials, directly across Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard from Savvy, has implemented new sanitation practices within the shop in alignment with the CDC recommendations.  Known for carrying 150 scents and essential oils, the shop hosts candle and soap making classes, summer camps and house parties – many of which are pre-booked. As the shop returns to normal operations, they’ll limit the number of customers allowed in the shop. However, as employee Anna Vernacchio noted, The Blended Essentials backs onto the B&A Trail so there is plenty room outside for classes.

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Around The Park Again by Sharon Lee Tegler

Area bowlers were thrilled to learn, on June 19th, that Severna Park Lanes had reopened after being closed for three months. Immaculately clean, with a refreshingly updated decor, the popular 32 lane bowling alley at 840 Ritchie Highway is as welcoming as ever.

General Manager Curt Pezzano says it’s not only a pleasure to welcome back many regulars, but newcomers as well.

Patrick LaBelle and sons Wyatt and Vincent were having a ball visiting Severna Park Lanes for the first time. Wielding a bowling ball almost bigger than he was, Wyatt did his best to send it down the lane just like his dad.

“This is the first time we’ve been out together in a long time and its great, Patrick LaBelle said. “It’s very, very clean here and you can see that they’ve obviously taken every precaution. Everything’s been sanitized and we’re just very comfortable.”

Shuttering one of the area’s oldest and most popular businesses for more than three months was challenging according to Pezzano.

In uninterrupted operation since 1962, when opened by original owner Bill Davidson, Severna Park Lanes closed its doors mid-March in compliance with Governor Hogan’s COVID-19 orders. The bowling alley is host to 18 leagues that were midway through an active season.

“We’d never been through anything like this,” Pezzano said. “We weren’t able to reopen the lanes until June 19 at 5 pm. Like other businesses, the closure had quite an impact on us . However, we did use the months we were closed well.”

Not everyone was laid off, so the staff took the time to clean and sanitize, replace lighting and flooring and generally refresh the facility.

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The staff went through extensive training regarding COVID-19 sanitation procedures. From the moment a novice bowler walks in, he can see that all the balls are wrapped in plastic having been disinfected beforehand in a special sanitizing room.

On entering the center, bowlers are led to their own area and encouraged not to move around. Tables, balls and shoes will have been sanitized prior to their arrival and re-sanitized once they leave. Food and beverage manager Brittany Danner will now come down to each lane to see if bowlers would like something to eat or drink and personally deliver their orders.

Tables and chairs will be re-sanitized every time a party leaves.

……and bowlers will see social distancing reminders throughout the facility.

Sanitation information is displayed on each table.

And, of course, everyone is required to wear a mask.

The staff adapted to these procedures well – in part because they realize the importance of making everyone feel comfortable and safe. And the procedures are working well with bowlers reporting that they feel very protected.

“We expected business to be a little slow when we opened back up but we’re encouraged to see it picking up week after week,” Pezzano noted. “A big part of regaining our normal flow of business is letting people know that bowling centers are open. (Severna Park Lanes is one of three owned by Hall Investments Annapolis, Inc.)

Though summer is a time when the leagues are not active, some of the first customers back were league bowlers. They all reported that they missed the exercise, competition and socialization with other league members. A meeting of autumn league officers is scheduled shortly to discuss adjustments to guarantee they’ll operate safely. By late August, the members will be back piling up those strikes and spares.

Severna Park Lanes still offers birthday parties and outings for children and adults….. with proper precautions and a size limitation of no more than ten in a group. They’ll also be offering their Saturday youth league programs. The youth programs are comparatively affordable at $13 per week which includes three games of bowling, shoes and coaches that work with the kids.

Hospice of the Chesapeake hosts Camp Phoenix for teens

For years, Hospice of the Chesapeake’s Chesapeake Life Center has been hosting much appreciated camps for teens who are grieving the death of a loved one. Many were held at Arlington Echo.

This year Camp Phoenix will take place for teens 13 to 18 from 10 am to 8 pm Saturday, August 15 at Terrapin Adventures at Historic Savage Mill.

As before, professional counselors will use team building exercises and other activities to help the teens get to know each other and discover “they are not alone as they navigate the emotions of grief while also having some fun”.

The outdoor event has limited participation so the counselors feel confident they can offer a safe experience for the teens. All necessary precautions and guidelines from the Center for Disease Control will be observed. Registration is required by Aug. 3. The cost for the program is $40 and includes snacks, meals, activities and a T-Shirt. Scholarships are available. Inquire by calling 888-501-7077 or email griefinfo@chesapeakelifecenter.org.

Rotary Crabs to Go!

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, The Rotary Club of Annapolis is unable to hold its traditional crab feast at Navy Marine Corps Stadium – an enormously popular event that draws 2,000 plus guests each year from Annapolis, Arnold, Severna Park, Millersville, Pasadena, Glen Burnie and as far away as Delaware, Virginia and Pennsylvania. Instead, the club is replacing it with Rotary Crabs to Go! .

According to media representative Anne Myers, the organization briefly considered canceling the event, However, they quickly realized that numerous community charities depend on donations from funds generated by it. The members came up with idea of Rotary Crabs to Go! to provide crabs and raise funds in the safest way possible.

Myers said the crabs may be ordered online at http://www.annapolisrotary.org/crabfeast They will be freshly steamed onsite at the stadium and packaged for travel.

Patrons can specify their pick-up windows in half hour increments from 4:30 pm until
7:00 pm. Rotarians (with PPE) will deliver your order as you drive to designated spots in the stadium lot. There’s no need to get out of your car.

(Best #1) crabs are priced competitively:

1 dozen crabs ($65)

2 dozen ($125),

half bushel ($150)

Bushel ($290) – to include corn on the cob

Schools slated to reopen this fall

Among private and church-affiliated schools planning to open this fall are Rockbridge Academy on Generals Highway in Crownsville, St. Martin’s-in-the-Field Episcopal School on Benfield Road in Severna Park, Messiah United Methodist Preschool on Furnace Branch Road in Glen Burnie, and St. John the Evangelist School at the corner of Ritchie Highway & Cypress Creek Road in Severna Park. (In fact, it’s reported by staff that all K-8 Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Baltimore will be back to full operation.) All of the schools state they’ll be opening with required PPE and social distancing.

As more news comes in, we’ll keep you posted.

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

Saturday’s weather was steamy but the atmosphere in the large open-air pavilion at Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds was exuberant. Rehearsal had just resumed for Talent Machine Company’s summer youth production of “Willy Wonka”.

Wearing masks with their costumes to meet COVID-19 guidelines and performing six feet apart, the 34-member cast of student actors aged 7 to 14 was clearly delighted to be back together singing, dancing and acting.

While immensely fun, rehearsing was serious business. “Willy Wonka” will debut at the fairgrounds this Friday, July 17 at 7:30 pm and will run Saturday, Sunday and Monday…..then resume performances on Thursday, July 23, followed by shows on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. For the full schedule or to buy tickets, visit https://secure.ticketsage.net/websales.aspx?u=talentmachine. Tickets may also be purchased at the door.

During the cast lunch break, director Katie Peacock said the ambitious production is among the most challenging in the Talent Machine Company’s 33 year history.

The young actors in TMC’s summer youth and summer teen produc-tions come from all over Anne Arundel County so rehearsals are normally held in the air-conditioned comfort of Stageworkz studios in Millersville. The shows are then performed at St. John’s College Key Auditorium. Considering this year’s challenging circumstances, staging “Willy Wonka” is a bold undertaking.

“We weren’t sure whether we’d be able to pull off either show because St. John’s Key Auditorium is closed for renovations and because of COVID-19 restrictions,” said Peacock. “Luckily, we were able to rehearse parts of the production virtually and then we found this wonderful open-air amphitheater.”

“In January, we’d picked the shows ‘Willy Wonka’ for this production and ‘Children of Eden’ for August’s teen production. Then, when COVID restrictions were implemented, we began working with Governor Hogan while searching for an outdoor venue,” the director said. “We explored many and found Anne Arundel County Fairgrounds to be very flexible and helpful. They’re awesome to work with.”

With no hugging or kissing scenes, “Willy Wonka” was the perfect show to adapt to meet the governor’s guidelines. It’s scripted so the actors are spaced reasonably far apart.

When it was determined “the show must go on”, the response from parents was positive and the youngsters who’d looked forward to appearing in the production for months were overjoyed.

TMC has strictly followed COVID guidelines including social distancing while performing and making masks mandatory for cast, staff, parent volunteers and audiences. Several staffers are tasked with taking temperatures.

After a quick run-through of one song, the kids headed to a nearby tent to change into their costumes. In the background, construction sounds were heard as parent volunteers busily built sets.

Student choreographers Whitney Green and Gabby Dean (both of whom have roles in TMC’s summer teen production “Children of Eden”) stood to one side of the amphitheater waiting for the actors to get dressed and discussing the placement of dancers for the next number.

“This is so fun for us,” said Whitney. “It’s such a magical show with so many elements and opportunities for creative choreography,”

Gabby appreciates working with director Katie Peacock and all the actors and dancers.

“It’s great coming out here everyday in the midst of these restrictions when we’re not able to get out often,” she said. “We’ve missed being together.”

Both choreographers said rehearsing for “Children of Eden” helped them understand how difficult it is for the kids to perform wearing masks which restrict their oxygen. So they give the cast frequent rest and water breaks

Costumed and masked, the actors slowly filed back into the tent led by Sydney Owens and Jackson Parlante.

About to be a freshman at Severna Park High School, Sydney is a seasoned TMC performer. Delighted to be appearing in the summer youth production, she plays the role of Mrs. Teavee whose son Mike is a “Golden Ticket” winner. Her favorite musical number is, not surprisingly, “I See It All on TV” which she performs with Finn Carroll who plays Mike.

“The show is wonderful for us. It’s been hard being cooped up so getting together with the other kids is great. This musical provides something for us to aim for and something to do,,” she said. “I’ll admit that wearing masks is challenging because they’re hot and you have to speak and sing more loudly to be understood.”

Matthew Earl, a rising ninth-grader at Archbishop Spalding High School who stars as Willy Wonka, agreed that wearing masks is complicated but well worth the effort. Possessed of a mellow tenor voice perfect for his role, Matthew really likes playing Willy.

“It’s very enjoyable. I love the singing, dancing and acting but I most love being able to create a character who is all over the place,” he said. “Masks were hard to cope with at first but became easier when the principal actors were issued clear ones that are more flexible.”

As the opening bars of “Pure Imagination” sounded, Matthew, in top hat and tails, wound his way through an audience of parents toward the stage delivering a fine rendition of the song.

Great musical numbers followed including “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket”, “Oompah Loompa” and the wonderful “Candy Man”.

Audience members of all ages will find “Willy Wonka” highly entertaining. Plenty of properly-spaced open-air seating is available. Tickets are just $15 and, as mentioned above, are available online or at the door. For further information, visit www.talentmachine.com.

GreaterSeverna Park & Arnold Chamber ribbon cutting celebrates opening of JPAR Maryland Living

The Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber’s well-known tradition of ribbon cuttings is finally back just in time for the Grand Opening celebration of JPAR Maryland Living on July 28. The chamber’s newest member, JPAR Maryland Living at 2460 Ritchie Highway in Arnold is a real estate service with listings throughout Anne Arundel County and Baltimore. The ribbon cutting will take place during JPAR’s Open House between 5 and 7 pm.

Severn River Association co-hosts GreenGive

The Severn River Association announced that it is co-hosting the GreenGive, an online fundraising and engagement-building initiative to expand participation in 10 Anne Arundel County waterway and environmental organizations. The GreenGive partner organizations are Unity Gardens, the Watershed Stewards Academy, Spa Creek Conservancy, St. Luke’s Restoration of Nature Project, the Severn River Association, the Severn Riverkeeper Program, ClearShark H2O, the Scenic Rivers Land Trust, Annapolis Green, and Arundel Rivers Federation.

GreenGive, starting on July 21 at 5 p.m. through July 22 at midnight, depends on the collective power of individuals giving online to provide the critical funds needed to protect our local waters and lands. To donate visit https://www.greengive.org/.

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

July 4th found Greater Severna Park & Arnold Chamber of Commerce CEO Liz League alone at her desk in her office at One Holly Avenue with the chamber cat for company.

It was a far cry from 2019 when she and operations manager Petra Roche arrived early at the parade launch sites at St. Martin’s-in-the-Field and Our Shepherd Lutheran Churches on Benfield Road. The pair bounded between firetrucks, floats, vintage cars, bands and scout troops as entrants prepared to “step off” at 10 am. Thousands of people lined the parade route along Benfield and Evergreen Roads and on both sides of Riggs Avenue where it spilled into the center of town before turning onto Baltimore and Annapolis Boulevard, then veering left onto Cypress Creek Road.

For the first time since July 4, 1974 when the parade was started by the late Hammond S. Carr and realtor Lou Heck, it was cancelled due to Corona virus restrictions. Disappointment was felt by multiple generations of families who’ve attended over the years as the parade grew, changed, and drew large crowds from an ever expanding geographical area.

There have been quite a few amazing entries including several of “chicken wire genius” Lou Heck’s floats – the most memorable of which was “On Eagle’s Wings”, his nod to our country’s Native American heritage with an enormous eagle spreading his wings over a tribal chief in full headdress and an Indian princess paddling a canoe.

Seeing a stage coach crest the hill at Riggs Avenue in 2009 was quite awe inspiring. Photos by Sharon Lee Tegler

………and the sight of the Severna Park Republican Women’s Club’s tribute to notable American women in 2011 brought cheers, applause and numerous salutes.

Lots of things to look forward to from the chamber for greater Severna Park area residents as Americans return to reality. For information on chamber events, visit https://www.gspacc.com/ or follow them on Facebook.

AROUND THE PARK by Sharon Lee Tegler

There was no shortage of shoppers when Partners In Care Maryland opened its doors on June 1. Regular customers were elated and new customers were curious to see what the organization’s upscale resale boutique at 8151 Ritchie Highway had to offer.

To say there was pent up demand for the boutique to reopen following the COVID-19 shutdown is putting it mildly. PIC Executive Director Mandy Arnold said would-be shoppers regularly stopped outside the doors to inquire when that would happen. Others stopped to ask when Partners In Care’s other services for seniors would resume.

“Our office staff worked all but three weeks of the time we were closed down by the governor’s “Stay at Home” orders,” Arnold said. “We’ve been working the whole time on ways to safely relaunch the boutique (our main source of funding) and the PIC transportation programs vital to many seniors. We’re very pleased we’re back and operating most of our services with minimal COVID-related limitations.”

Special care was taken in preparing the boutique to reopen in accordance with recommended guidelines. However, the store retains its usual charm. The talented PIC volunteer group nicknamed “The Designing Women” went all out with a clever “red, white and blue” clothing and accessory theme in honor of the 4th of July.

Volunteers and staff arranged aisle after aisle of eye-catching displays of items ranging from clothing, china, tableware, linens and antiques to children’s toys, books and tchotchkes – all while making sure the merchandise is sanitized and neat as a pin.

Arnold described several measures taken to safeguard customers’ health including hand sanitizing stations and markings six feet apart at checkout counters. All PIC volunteers wear masks made by members.

For now, temporary COVID hours have been set from noon to 5 pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Since only 12 people, including staff, are allowed in the store at any one time, customers rotate through.”

It was necessary to limit the store’s hours because not all of PIC’s member volunteers have come back. Many are seniors and, thus, vulnerable to the illness so they’re putting off their return.

Donations of clothes or other items from the public are now being accepted…..but by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, call 410-544-0568. Festival at Pasadena is generously allowing Partners In Care to use an empty retail space next door to accept and safely store the donations.

Once accepted, donations are held for a proscribed period of time and then go through a sanitizing process before being brought into the store. They’re then worked into the boutique’s inventory – often in clever ways. For example, The Designing Women’s came up with the idea to display classic handbags in an antique china cupboard.

Quite a few of the seniors dependent on PIC’s all important “Ride” services breathed a sigh of relief on learning limited transportation is now available for essential medical appointments or trips to grocery stores. The two-month disruption of the “rides” provided by volunteers or mobility vans was traumatic for older members who found it hard to make other arrangements.

For now, people accepting rides must wear masks. They are asked five basic questions including if they’ve experienced fever, have been near anyone ill with the virus, etc.

PIC’s popular Seniors Helping Seniors handyman services are being resumed – but for outside work only at present. The organization’s Veterans Helping Veterans Program launch party had to be postponed to a yet-to-be-determined date.

Benevolent Baskets gifts “Gratitude Bags” to essential workers

Benevolent Baskets founders Karen Lerario and Lesley Geisel wanted to express their thanks to those from from Severna Park, Millersville, Annapolis and elsewhere who donated to support the organization’s gifting of “Gratitude Bags” to essential workers who’ve carried on through the COVID-19 pandemic. The bags were loaded with snacks and beverages, sweet and savory…and even some healthy treats. 

Benevolent Baskets’ volunteers had so much fun surprising and blessing staff at fire/EMT stations, detention centers, hospitals, train stations and doctors offices in Baltimore City and Anne Arundel County.

Reminder that Anne Arundel Co. Public Libraries are offering curbside pickup

The Severna Park Community Library and most other Anne Arundel County Public Library branches are offering telephone service at 410-222-6290 and curbside pickup for books from 10 am through 4 pm Monday through Saturday. Library returns may be made by placing materials in the Book Drop.

Young, talented designer and author Erica Szymanski is petitioning the US Food & Drug Administration requesting that companies be required to list the ingredients in “natural flavorings”….. many of which can trigger allergic reactions. Thus far, she’s received more than 600 signatures for her petition.

Midway through the summer of 2019, Szymanski felt she was having a banner year in spite of challenges. She graduated from Severna Park High School while simultaneously earning her Anne Arundel Community College Entrepreneur Certificate with 18 credits in accounting, marketing and promotion.

She also formed Erica Morgan Books as an adjunct to her already existing company Erica Morgan Designs and had her children’s book, “A Shark’s Tooth Fairy Tale” published by Mascot Books. In the fall, she expected to enter the University of Virginia majoring in business.

Abruptly, Szymanski’s life was turned upside down as she was sidelined by a “trifecta” of illnesses ithat included an allergy/immune disorder called Mast Cell Activation Sydrome (MCAS), Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)..

Believed to be hereditary, Mast Cell Activation syndrome occurs when the mast cells in an individual’s immune system trigger mutations of allergic reactions and cause symptoms like hives, breathing difficulties, low blood pressure or gastrointestinal problems.

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is a connective tissue disorder that causes hyper mobility in joints and is closely linked to Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome.

“When someone normally stands up, their heat rate will be elevated ,” Szymanski said. “However, POTS is a condition where, when a person moves from a lying down to a standing up position, too little blood returns to the heart. The condition can cause the person to be lightheaded or faint.”

Each syndrome is difficult to diagnose, taking an average of five years. Szymanski believes her earliest symptoms appeared when she was in middle school. By junior year at SPHS, she was diagnosed with Postural Tachycardia Syndrome. By senior year, her Mast Cell Activation Syndrome came into play in a major way causing frequent illnesses. With her usual fortitude, however, she carried on dancing and even appeared in the high school’s popular Rock ‘N Roll Revival.

There are no cures for any of the three syndromes aside from managing symptoms, Like all POTS patients, Szymanski was advised to increase her intake of water and salt and take physical therapy. She also exercises on a recumbent bicycle to strengthen the leg muscles that pump blood to her heart.

As an MCAS patient, avoiding allergens is key because the condition is extremely challenging. Sufferer’s allergies can change without warning. The only way to determine which foods, medications or products are causing an allergic reaction is to keep a written food log.

Szymanksi was never allergic to mint for example. Then, one morning when brushing her teeth with a mint flavored toothpaste, she suffered a severe reaction. Within days, it was determined she’d become allergic to mint.

Achieving a balanced diet is incredibly hard and means she eats mostly unprocessed organic fruits, vegetables and chicken. If she eats processed foods, they’re minimally processed canned or frozen fruits or vegetables with three or fewer ingredients. She avoids products with natural flavors.

Szymanski’s trifecta of chronic illnesses flared shortly after graduation and the talented student was forced to take a medical gap year from university in order to stabilize her health.

Regardless, she is successfully carrying on with her entrepreneurial career through Erica Morgan Designs and Erica Morgan Books. Since published in December, 2019, “A Shark’s Tooth Fairy Tale” has been picked up online by Target, Wallmart, Barnes & Noble and Amazon. The book also received a five-star rating from Reader’s Favorite. She’s done a number of book signings, visited schools, and created an online “StoryTime” for children.

Erica Morgan Books is currently helping another author publish her own book.

Erica Morgan Designs has continued marketing Szymanski’s unique decals, stickers and magnets through a network of 40 retailers in eight states. They are listed at https://www.ericamorgandesigns.com/stockists.html.

Her products are also sold in Annapolis at Whimsicality, Lilac Bijoux and HERE a pop-up shop as well as in Severna Park at Side Street Framers. She’s now doing more freelance design work including a sign and tickets for Craig Conover, a star of the reality TV show “Southern Charm“.

Through Erica Morgan Designs, she’s carried on her many charitable activities including designing, sewing and donating masks for police officers and medical workers throughout the COVID-19 crisis.

Szymanski considers creating herFDA petition one of the most important things she’s done because unlisted ingredients in natural flavorings can literally threaten the health and lives of allergy sufferers.

“I was frustrated because my allergens were not among the top eight allergens required to be listed on food labels according to the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Act of 2004..” she said. “Allergens not in the top eight (but prevalent among the general population) like sesame and corn, are not required to be disclosed meaning it’s impossible to know what you’re getting. Both ingredients can be hidden under ‘natural flavorings’ – flavorings that may not even be natural but chemical in nature.”

St. Martin’s 8th-graders’ graduation altered but heartfelt

On June 2, St. Martin’s-in-the-Field Episcopal School held a heartfelt commencement celebration for its 8^th graders according to Development and Marketing Director Christine Hickey. Like other educational institutions closed because of COVIC-19, St. Martin’s wanted to do something special.

Hickey said graduates paraded through the campus in cars with their families receiving flowers, “Class of 2020” face masks and a personalized poster board from their teachers.  St. Martin’s held a ceremony viewed by car in back of the school where Head of School Jamey Hein celebrated the grads with a speech, graduation certificates,  awards and gifts.

Two students, Elizabeth Younkin and Nick Allen, received awards for continuously exhibiting traits of  Confidence, Compassion and Character during their time at St. Martin’s. 

Students and their families listened from afar to graduation speeches and awards. Some like Cody Fanzo had ringside seats.

The ceremony was touching and a true testament to what a small school can do even in challenging times.

Trevor Mennell and classmates carpooled in style with their families to receive their St. Martin’s-in-the-Field Episcopal School graduation certificates.

Severna Park Community Library began curbside service

All Anne Arundel County Public Libraries began telephone service with contactless curbside pick-up on Monday, June 8th. For details, visit https://aacpl.net/ or call 419-222-7371.

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

Even before Governor Hogan announced the resumption of outdoor dining on May 29, The Big Bean staff was working round-the-clock getting ready for what owners Greg and Christie Coster hoped would be a June 1st reopening.

Their plans came to fruition Sunday, May 31 and Monday, June 1 as happy customers flocked to the Severna Park coffee shop’s outdoor patio beside the B&A Trail.

Like similar businesses, The Big Bean adapted during the COVID-19 shutdown by instituting hands-off curbside delivery for online orders of coffee drinks, coffee beans, breakfast cookies, and snacks.

“Thanks to wonderful community support through our online sales, we stayed afloat and hired back our staff,” Christie said. “We deep-cleaned, repainted and sanitized the shop and installed a register by the patio door. Outside, Greg spaced 55 chairs and 12 patio tables six feet apart. Customers can also enter the shop through the front entrance for takeout if they’re wearing masks. Servers will wear masks too. ”

The reopening was so successful the staff worked hard to keep up with demand Greg said. Among the patrons on Sunday were Big Bean regulars Sharon and Dan Flagler who were once again enjoying super sized coffee drinks.

“We’ve known Christie and Greg for a long time and original owner Deb Hoffman before them,” Dan said. “We admire how they’re operating from 7 am to 4 pm in a reasonable manner with safety in mind. It’s good to be here .”

Other local businesses reopening, or about to reopen, include Franklin’s Toys, Brian Boru, Park Tavern, La Posta, Vida Taco Bar, Shooters and Garry’s Grill.

At Garry’s Grill, manger Korey Earles was balanced on a ladder. He was hanging a sign over the outdoor dining area owner Eddie Conway created featuring properly distanced tables, plants and festive lighting.

Earles proclaimed the weekend’s reopening quite a success as staff members and patrons caught up with each other. Greeting customers who wholeheartedly supported the restaurant by ordering takeout and groceries through the pandemic was gratifying he said.

Tuesday, June 2 just happened to be the 12th Anniversary of the day Conway bought the restaurant from former owner Garry Anderson. Things were hopping as he happily visited tables accepting longtime patrons’ congratulations . Henceforth, Garry’s Grill will be open daily from 11 am to 8 pm Sunday through Wednesday and 11 am to 9 pm Thursday through Saturday. Breakfast is available starting at 8 am on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.

Picnic tables with pretty umbrellas graced the sidewalk and side lawn at La Posta Pizzeria and Italian Kitchen on B&A Blvd. where pasta, woodfire pizza and vino were being served to outdoor diners by reservation only at 443-905-2840. Judging from the full parking lot, Severna Park patrons were pleased to be back.

Between tables located on the front sidewalk, iron railed terrace and a patch of parking lot, there was ample room at Park Tavern for socially distanced outdoor dining. Managing partner Greg Keating said customers were great in supporting the restaurant during the shutdown. However, the staff was thrilled to be moving forward.

“Seeing our customers again is such a happy feeling,” Keating said.

Franklin’s Toys among first small retailers to open

Toys that one can see and touch were once again at shopper’s fingertips as Franklin’s Toys reopened June 1. The store is observing all state guidelines and regulations with masks required of staff and customers and social distancing. The popular Park Plaza store will be open Mondays through Saturdays from 10 am to 6 pm. (Franklin’s Annapolis location will be open too. )

SPHS Grad Bags

Pastor Dave Brown of Severna Park Baptist Church felt the COVID pandemic caused a lot of heartache for the community including students who missed out on a lot. He wanted to do something especially kind and caring for Severna Park High School graduating seniors, some of whom attend his church. With schools closed and gatherings prohibited, the seniors were forced to give up rituals they hold dear including proms and graduation. Many SPHS seniors who were Rock ‘N Roll Revival XXXI cast members were dismayed when their show was cancelled just before opening night.

With an assist from Brooke Atkinson of the Christian youth group Campus Life, Pastor Brown asked the neighboring congregations of Severna Park Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Severna Park United Methodist Church and Trinity Bible Church to help put together gift bags for SPHS graduates to express love and encouragement and show them how much they mean to us.

Pooling their efforts, the churches found some very nice items for the Grad Bags

“We purchased $10 gift certificates from Chick-fil-A and added generously donated gift cards from Donut Shack and Steak and Shake,” Pastor Brown said. “We included personalized items like journals and Severna Park High lanyards plus personal letters of congratulation for each senior written by members of the four congregations.”

The churches coordinated the SPHS Grad Bag giveaways and timed them to take place June 1, 2 and 3 at Severna Park Baptist Church……mirroring the times seniors were invited to pick up their diplomas at Severna Park High.

Atkinson, a representative for Campus Life, is working to set up a branch at Severna Park High. She said she was surprised the Grad Bags were picked up so quickly by appreciative graduates – 30 Grad Bags the first day.

AROUND THE PARK AGAIN by Sharon Lee Tegler

Memorial Day dawned bright and beautiful – an ideal day for families to celebrate the somber and meaningful yet joyful holiday together. Since parks, golf courses and beaches were reopened after being shut down because of COVID-19, the entire holiday weekend was lively. There was significant traffic along the community’s main transportation artery, Ritchie Highway, with some of it southbound to Ocean City.

In Olde Severna Park, flags fluttered in the breeze along two sides of the historic Carr Building at the corner of Baltimore Annapolis Boulevard and Riggs Avenue, now home to Gardiner & Appel.

In Severna Park’s neighborhoods, it felt like life was almost back to normal. Cape Arthur’s community beach off the Magothy River saw many swimmers on Saturday. There were boaters galore and family picnickers dotted the beach. There was even a spirited volleyball game.

Cooler temperatures Sunday meant backyard barbecues were the order of the day for many. Smoke from outdoor grills drifted on the breeze carrying the familiar scents of barbecued chicken and ribs and burgers and dogs.

Lovely weather-wise, Memorial Day was an opportunity to reflect on and express gratitude for the U.S. Armed Forces personnel who have kept our country safe. It was also a great day for a walk, a bicycle ride or a quiet conversation.

Their dogs Benny and Jig at their feet, sisters Chloe and Gretchen Hogge caught up with each other while catching some rays on the Cypress Creek community dock. Benny and Jigs’ barks kept the ducks at bay but both seemed captivated by the occasional boats drifting by.

For some folks, a Memorial Day trip to Rita’s Italian Ice is a great way to officially open the summer season.

Lines of socially distanced customers moved smoothly throughout the day. Service was quick and patrons happily retreated to their cars to enjoy a variety of ices and custards.

Possibly the most popular Memorial Day pass times were individual or family walks or bicycle rides along the B&A Trail.

Built over the former Baltimore and Annapolis Short Line Railroad tracks, the trail took Memorial Day exercisers past such landmarks as the historic Earleigh Heights Ranger Station , the Old Severna Park Railroad Station and lovely Hatton-Regester Green where a somewhat lonely World War II Memorial stood in silent tribute to Severna Park’s fallen sons.

Inscribed on the monument were the names Warren L. Bonnet, U.S. Army, Edward P. Brookmeyer, U.S. Marine Corps, Robert M. Brookmeyer, U.S. Navy, Morris E. Jones, U.S. Army, Robert W. Maxwell, U.S. Army Air Force, Francis J. Milhausen, U.S. Marine Corps, Louis R. Pohlner, U.S. Army, and Nathan C. Pollard, U.S. Army. The Brookmeyers were two of five brothers from the same family that served in World War II.

Just five feet further on, beside the B&A Trail, was a sign announcing the building of a new Gold Star Memorial and Heroes Monument in the form of a pavilion in Hatton-Regester Green. It will replace the aging original pavilion while honoring Gold Star families. The memorial was made possible by donations from Severna Park residents and businesses. Donations are still accepted at www.heroesofsevernapark.com.

A short jaunt down the trail to Round Bay Road, then over the hills to Round Bay Main Beach revealed a festive and colorful scene. Though the Memorial Day turnout was a little smaller than usual, adults gathered in groups on long benches in the sun while kids

dodged in and out of the pavilions. The teenagers were irresistibly drawn to the dock with many clustered near the lifeguard station and several testing the waters. A sailboat stood ready to be boarded. All told, a fun Memorial Day…..

A glimpse of “Books In Bloom”

Hollyberry Garden Club’s Sixth Annual “Books In Bloom” floral exhibit was set to be held at the Severna Park Community Library in April as usual. Unfortunately, Anne Arundel County Public Libraries were closed in accordance with Governor Larry Hogan’s orders and the garden club members were forced to hold a “Virtual Books In Bloom”. As could be expected, they rose to the occasion.

HGC members are best known for creating and maintaining the library’s gardens and can often be spotted raking or watering. However, the women annually bring their talents inside to create floral arrangements based on their favorite books. This year they creatively crafted floral displays mirroring much loved titles using flowers from their own gardens. According to HGC’s Peggy Turnblacer, the gardeners included Alyson Figlioli, Amy Sparwasser, Sandy Allen, Dianne Kirkland, Joan Read, Susan Ford (a former member who contributed her arrangement all the way from California), Liz Carlin, Ann Edwards, Bonnie Madden and Turnblacer herself.

Here are a few.