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 tastes of a 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.