Per Howard County:
ELLICOTT CITY, MD – County Executive Calvin Ball today signed an Executive Order immediately lifting the mask mandate in Howard County. Howard County public buildings and facilities, and public transit, including the RTA, will still require masks. Businesses and organizations may still require masking at their own discretion.
County Executive Ball released the following statement regarding the mask mandate:
“On December 23, 2021, I signed an Executive Order that required masking in indoor public facilities. This action was vital to combat our rapidly rising COVID-19 metrics fueled by the increasing spread of the omicron variant. At the height of the post-holiday surge, our positivity rate was nearly 30%, our case rate per 100,000 was 199, and 84 people were hospitalized at Howard County General Hospital. During the past month, we’ve seen our metrics decrease significantly, and more of our residents got their vaccines and booster shots.
Today, our positivity rate is at 8.47%, a 70% decrease from its peak, our case rate per 100,000 is 34, an 83% decrease from its peak, and our hospitalizations have decreased by 60%. Additionally, there is now a wide availability of rapid at-home testing and high-quality masks. Our metrics are encouraging; however, our residents should still use caution in public indoor spaces, regardless of vaccination status. Due to Omicron’s virulence, we still recommend the use of high-quality masks, such as N95s and KN95s especially for residents who may be at higher risk.
The single most effective way to prevent severe disease and hospitalization from COVID-19 is to get vaccinated and boosted. Approximately 86% of our residents 12+ are fully vaccinated, however, about 44% of those eligible still have not received a booster. Residents are highly encouraged to get a booster as studies show that antibodies wane after six months and this may make the difference in keeping our family and friends out of the hospital.
Nearly 65% of our 5-11-year-olds have received at least their first vaccine dose. I strongly encourage our youngest residents to get vaccinated, get boosted, and help your family and friends get their shots.”
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FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival
Get ready to experience the vibrant colors, tantalizing flavors, and infectious rhythms of the Caribbean at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival! Hosted by RHU LLC, this exciting festival is set to take place on May 18, 2024, at the picturesque 16700 Barnesville Rd in Boyds, MD.
Step into a world where the Caribbean spirit comes alive! From 12:00 PM onwards, immerse yourself in a sensory journey that celebrates the unique culture, cuisine, and music of the Caribbean. Whether you're an African American, a Reggae or Soca music enthusiast, a wine lover, or part of the vibrant Caribbean diaspora, this festival promises to delight and captivate you in every way.
Let the enticing aromas of mouthwatering Caribbean dishes tantalize your taste buds. Feast on traditional delicacies prepared by expert chefs, showcasing the rich and diverse culinary heritage of the Caribbean. Indulge in flavorful jerk chicken, succulent seafood, and delectable plantain dishes that will transport you straight to the islands.
Accompanying the culinary extravaganza is a carefully curated selection of premium wines, ensuring the perfect pairing for your palate. Sip on fine wines from renowned vineyards, each sip a reflection of the Caribbean's vibrant spirit. Discover new flavors, expand your wine knowledge, and savor unforgettable moments with every glass.
As the sun sets, get ready to groove to the infectious rhythms of Caribbean music. Feel the pulsating beats of reggae, soca, dancehall, and calypso, moving your body to the lively melodies. Live performances by talented musicians and performers will keep the energy high, ensuring a night of unforgettable entertainment.
Don't miss this opportunity to embrace the Caribbean spirit and celebrate the arrival of spring in style! Tickets are available on AllEvents, so secure your spot today. Join us at the FEST OF SPRING Caribbean Wine Food & Music Festival, where cultures collide and unforgettable memories are made.
LIVE PERFORMANCES By: CULTURE Feat. Kenyatta Hill, EXCO LEVI, IMAGE BAND, RAS LIDJ REGG'GO with Special Guest SUGAR BEAR FROM E.U. & MORE! & MORE!
MUSIC By: DJ ABLAZE, DJ SMALLY & NAJ SUPREME
2 NIGHT Camping packages available: RV/CAMPER $200 | TENTS $150 Starting on Friday May 17 @ 5pm | 30 RV SPACES | 30+ TENT SPACES
KIDS 12 & UNDER FREE!!!
