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June 19, 2025

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1C Commerce

Rural Maryland Council honors rural community advocates 

December 16, 2024 by Rural Maryland Council (RMC)

Annapolis, MD – The Rural Maryland Council (RMC) and its membership convened at the  Yellowfin Steak and Fish House in Annapolis on Wednesday, December 4, at 6:00 p.m. for its  Annual Meeting and Rural Impact Awards Ceremony. This annual event provides an overview of  upcoming events and activities for 2025 and honors advocates for rural Maryland communities.  Board Chair Susan O’Neill was the master of ceremonies for the evening and said, “It was a true  privilege to meet and honor our Rural Community Advocates, each of whom exemplifies the spirit  of service and dedication. Their work uplifts entire communities and motivates us to pursue our  vision of a prosperous Rural Maryland, where resources flourish, economies thrive, and residents  enjoy healthy, connected lives.” 

This year, eight awards were presented for the 2024 Rural Impact Award Ceremony:  

Outstanding Rural Community Volunteer Award to Rick Nelson whose volunteer service and  leadership at Chesapeake Housing Mission (CHM) have transformed lives across Maryland’s Lower  Shore. Rick personally designs and manages wheelchair ramp projects, ensuring accessibility and  independence for those in need. To date, he has led over 120 projects, working with more than  1,800 volunteers to improve the lives of low-income families. 

Outstanding Rural Community Volunteer Award to Sara Visintainer who served as Board  President of Choptank Community Health System (CCHS) from 2018 to 2023. Sara led efforts that  expanded access to medical, dental, and behavioral health care for over 30,000 patients annually. Her  advocacy resulted in new health centers, expanded prenatal and pediatric dental care, mobile health  units, and critical services in Kent County, ensuring broader access to quality care. 

Outstanding Rural Community Development Award to Buck Browning, Executive Director of  the Fort Ritchie Community Center for his exceptional leadership in improving the quality of life in  Cascade, Maryland. Under his guidance, the Center has become a vital community hub, offering programs  that support health, wellness, and recreation, including youth camps, kids’ clubs, and a full-service fitness  center, all reflecting his vision to make it the best community center in America. 

Outstanding Rural Economic Development Award to Maryland Area Health Education Center  West (AHEC West) for their leadership in the Innovative Readiness Training (IRT) program, which  provided life-changing healthcare services to over 4,000 residents across the Tri-State area. From July  26 to August 7, 2024, AHEC West coordinated a partnership with the Department of Defense and  local agencies, delivering more than 28,000 medical, dental, optometry, and veterinary procedures at no  cost, saving the community an estimated $1.2 million. 

“A Collective Voice for Rural Maryland” 

Rural Champion Award to Senator ‘Jack’ Bailey has championed rural Maryland since joining the  Senate in 2019, leveraging his conservation background to craft policies that balance environmental  protection and community needs. His work with the Southern Maryland Agriculture Development  Commission has strengthened the agriculture industry, including rebranding the Northern Snakehead  to boost conservation and the economy. Through his efforts on the Joint Committee on Ending  Homelessness, he ensures rural voices are heard and meaningful solutions are implemented. 

Rural Champion Award to Mayor Darlene Taylor whose visionary leadership has transformed  Crisfield, securing over $36 million for flood mitigation, $2 million for elevating City Dock, and  $500,000 for a business incubator. As the first African-American woman mayor, she champions youth  engagement through her nonprofit, impacting over 200 children. Her collaborative, community-driven  approach continues to revitalize Crisfield and serve as a model for rural communities. 

Rural Legacy Award to Santo Grande for his twenty-year leadership at Delmarva Community  Services, where he expanded vital support for individuals with disabilities, the elderly, and underserved  populations across the Eastern Shore. His visionary approach has introduced innovative solutions in  transportation, housing, and essential services, particularly benefiting rural communities. Santo’s  advocacy at local, state, and national levels has strengthened partnerships and enhanced the quality of  life for residents. His compassion and dedication have made a lasting impact, establishing Delmarva  Community Services as a leader in the nonprofit sector. 

Posthumous Rural Legacy Award to Leanne Dawn Bowman-Bodes (posthumously) whose  visionary leadership as Executive Director of the Tri-County Council for Western Maryland  profoundly impacted our community. Leanne’s dedication, from advocating for key programs in  Washington to her leadership at the national level, ensured vital support for rural communities. Her  legacy of service, commitment, and tireless work will continue to inspire Western Maryland for years  to come. 

The Rural Maryland Council operates under the direction of a 40-member executive board in a  nonpartisan and nondiscriminatory manner. It serves as the state’s federally designated rural  development council and functions as a voice for rural Maryland, advocating for and helping rural  communities and businesses across the state to flourish and to gain equity to its suburban and urban  counterparts. The vision for RMC is the ultimate realization that residents in rural communities are  achieving success in education and employment, have access to affordable, quality health care and  other vital public services, and live in an environment where natural and cultural resources are being  sustained for future generations. 

 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: 1C Commerce

Rural Maryland Council hosts “Pathways to Prosperity” Summit of November 14th 

October 26, 2023 by Rural Maryland Council (RMC)

The keynote speaker for “Pathways to Prosperity” is Becky McCray

A challenging economy, lack of good living wage jobs and access to affordable housing and health care may seem like a laundry list of today’s challenges in most, if not all communities across the United States. However, these issues are nothing new for small towns and rural communities who practically wrote the book on how to weather bad times whether it be a particularly bad harvest, an economic downturn, or even a pandemic.

On Tuesday, November 14, the Rural Maryland Council will host its biennial Rural Summit, a one-day conference to bring together community leaders, legislators and stakeholders who will share their stories of rural innovation, resilience, and sustainability. In addition to gleaning information that they can take to their own communities, attendees will have an opportunity to network with possible future collaborators. 

The Summit, titled “Pathways to Prosperity”, will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Crown Plaza, 173 Jennifer Road, Annapolis. Registration is $60 per attendee. Meals are included.

“What makes our Summit different from other conferences is that RMC starts from the perspective that our experts are also our attendees,” says RMC Chair Susan O’Neill. “Attendees will get great information from the presenters and panelists during our breakout sessions and plenaries, but that stranger seated next to them may be a future collaborator on a grant project or program that they’ve been tying to get off the ground,” she says.

The keynote speaker for “Pathways to Prosperity” is Becky McCray, international speaker and award-winning author of Small Biz Survival. McCray will share her insights on resilience as a lifelong small-town entrepreneur, business owner and cattle rancher. 

The Summit will kick off with an optional forestry focused bus tour on Monday, November 13, from1 to 5 p.m. to Garman Brothers, Inc., a family owned and operated sawmill in Crownsville and the Home Innovations Lab in Upper Marlboro, where research into improving the moisture performance of wood-framed balconies and decks is taking place.
In addition to the keynote address, the Summit will include a preview of the upcoming legislative sessions from Maryland legislators as well as breakout sessions on Agriculture, Community Development, Economic Development and Health Care. The networking luncheon will feature remarks by Maryland Department of Agriculture Kevin Atticks. 

Founded in 1994, the Rural Maryland Council operates under the direction of a 40-member executive board in a nonpartisan and nondiscriminatory manner. RMC is committed to creating real change by going to go directly to the rural stakeholders who understand their community’s challenges. The organization provides grants and opportunities to connect stakeholders with legislators and like-minded people in the state who can create policy and help create real impact.

To register for the Summit, visit rural.maryland.gov or contact RMC at (410) 841-5772 or [email protected]. For updates on all RMC events and activities connect with the Rural Maryland Council at facebook.com/RuralMaryland or on Twitter @RuralMaryland. 

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: 1C Commerce

Recently Passed Fiscal Year 2023 Maryland Operating Budget Includes Historic Funding for Rural Communities

April 17, 2022 by Rural Maryland Council (RMC)

On April 11, 2022, the Maryland Legislature adjourned Sine Die. Among the session’s many accomplishments, the Legislature approved the Fiscal Year 2023 State Operating Budget which included $9,000,000 in funding to support the Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund (RMPIF) – 50% more funding than in previous years. The Rural Maryland Council would like to thank Governor Hogan for appropriating funds to support RMPIF, the Maryland House of Delegates and Maryland Senate for their support, and the numerous individuals and organizations that voiced their strong support for increased rural investment.

“We want to express our gratitude for these important and necessary funds that will be used to invigorate the economies in all of our rural areas,” said RMC Board Chair, John Hartline, “This record funding will expand the reach of our grant programs, allowing for even more positive impacts across rural Maryland and accelerating the recovery of our rural communities from the negative economic effects of COVID-19.”

The Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund targets investment to promote economic prosperity in Maryland’s traditionally disadvantaged and underserved rural communities by sustaining efforts to promote rural regional cooperation, facilitating entrepreneurial activities and supporting key community colleges and nonprofit organizations. This fund will support the Rural Maryland Council’s activities and the Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund (MAERDAF) which provides capacity-building funds to rural nonprofit service providers. It will also support the state’s five rural regional councils, regional infrastructure projects, rural entrepreneurship development, rural community development, and rural health care organizations.

The RMPIF and MAERDAF grant programs have provided substantial amounts of needed opportunities and resources to our rural communities over the years. With the State’s investment, an additional $67 million in federal, local, and private funding has been directed into our rural areas. Overall, the RMPIF program between 2018 and 2021 has resulted in $124 million in economic impact and $40.9 million in employee compensation. The MAERDAF program has provided $12.1 million in additional economic impact and $4.4 million in employee compensation.

The two-phase online grant application process opens on Monday, April 25, 2022 and the Phase 1 – Letter of Intent will be due by Friday, May 20, 2022 at 11:59 pm. The Council will host four grant information sessions this Spring. These information sessions are important opportunities for participants to meet RMC staff and learn about the Council’s two grant programs. An information session will be presented by Zoom teleconference for those who cannot join in-person.

Date Location Address
Wednesday, April 20, 2022, 12:00pm to 2:00pm Zoom Teleconference Zoom Teleconference
Friday, April 22, 2022, 12:00pm to 2:00pm Tri County Council for Southern Maryland 15045 Burnt Store Road, Hughesville, MD 20637
Tuesday, April 26, 2022

12:00pm to 2:00pm

Thomas Welcome Center, Allegany College 12401 Willowbrook Road

Cumberland, MD 21502

Thursday, April 28, 2022

12:00pm to 2:00pm

Delmarva Community Services

The Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Intergenerational Center

108 Chesapeake Street

Cambridge, MD 21613

Monday, May 2, 2022

2:00pm to 4:00pm

Leading Edge Training Center 2002 Cedar Drive,

Edgewood, MD 21040

Learn more about the grant programs and register for an upcoming grant information session through the following link –  Grant Opportunities (maryland.gov).

The Rural Maryland Council (RMC) operates under the direction of a 40-member executive board in a nonpartisan and nondiscriminatory manner. It serves as the state’s federally designated rural development council and functions as the official voice for rural Maryland. The RMC advocates for rural communities and businesses across the state to flourish and to gain parity to their suburban and urban counterparts. The RMC envisions a future where residents in rural communities are achieving success in education and employment, have access to affordable, quality health care and other vital public services, and live in an environment where natural and cultural resources are being sustained for future generations.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Archives Tagged With: commerce, council, local news, Maryland, rural

Rural Maryland Council Honors Rural Community Advocates

December 22, 2021 by Rural Maryland Council (RMC)

The Rural Maryland Council (RMC) and its membership convened at the DoubleTree Hilton Hotel in Annapolis on December 1, 2021 at 6:30p.m. for its Executive Board Meeting and Rural Impacts Award Ceremony. This annual event provides an overview of upcoming events and activities for 2022 and honors advocates for rural Maryland communities. “Helping the Rural County economies recover quickly from the shocks they have suffered from the COVID Pandemic is the top priority at the Rural Maryland Council. This year’s awards combined with our Rural Summit in December give us hope and optimism that a rapid recovery is within our grasp,” says John Hartline, RMC Board Chair.

This year, five awards were presented for the 2021 Rural Impact Award Ceremony:

  • The Rural Community Development Award to the Town of Rising Sun in recognition for their dedication and creativity to improve the quality of life for their community. The Town has experienced a remarkable rebirth over the past three years. In 2018, roughly 50% of the downtown businesses were vacant and the Town center shopping center was struggling to fill tenant spaces as well. Over these three years, the Town was able to attract two regional banks, an upscale Coffee Shop, a Brew Pub, a Women’s Boutique and a $2milliondollar upgrade and expansion of the area’s only car wash. The award was received by Cecil County Executive Danielle Hornberger, Rising Sun Mayor Travis Marion, Town Administrator Calvin Bonenberger, and Commissioner Joseph Shephard. Pictured left to right RMC Executive Director Charlotte Davis, Cecil County Danielle Hornberger, Rising Sun Mayor Travis Marion, Town Administrator Calvin Bonenberger, and Commissioner Joseph Shephard.
  • The Rural Volunteer Award to Elizabeth Anne Glotfelty and the Honorable Craig Mathies, Sr. for their leadership, dedication, and noteworthy volunteer achievement beyond the call of one’s professional duties to help improve their community. Elizabeth Anne Glotfelty passed away in September 2022 leaving behind a legacy of charitable works that will benefit the community for decades. Anne was instrumental in the founding of the Mountain Loggers Group Association in 1995. Anne served the organization as treasurer since inception, but also and more significantly in many formal and informal capacities. She gave more of herself than her administrative skills. She was the indispensable force in organizing and conducting the Annual Elimination Dinner; the annual Christmas and Easter solicitation, collection, and delivery of toys to WVU Children’s Hospital; organizing the annual Christmas dinner; and always having a leading role in the annual Log-a-Load for Kids auction-donations to the Children’s Hospital are nearing $2 million to date. Dan Rider accepted the award on the family’s behalf.

The Honorable Craig Mathies, Sr. has been a Somerset County resident for over 51 years. Educated in the Somerset County Public School System, he graduated from Crisfield High School, and attended the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. He is active in many community and civic organizations and is presently the Pastor of Zion Baptist Church in Cambridge. Craig is also President of the Somerset County Commissioners, representing District. Matthew Teffeau accepted the award on the awardee’s behalf.

  • Rural Economic Development Award to the Frederick Innovative Technology Center, Inc.(FITCI) for leadership, dedication, and noteworthy achievement to help improve economic development opportunities in rural communities. Over the last 15 years, FITCI has served 163 companies that has created over 800 jobs. Many of their companies that have graduated stay in Frederick County and continue to flourish in the local economy. Additionally, they continue to give back to the FITCI community in many ways, including joining the advisory board.FITCI is Frederick’s first business incubator and only incubator/Accelerator combination with locations in the city and county. FITCI primarily supported local companies in the IT, Biotech, and Renewable Energy industries; today our scope includes cryptocurrency, cybersecurity, and distilling to name a few. The award was received by FITCI’s CEO Kathie Callahan Brady.
  • Senator George Edwards accepts the Rural Champion Award.

    The Rural Champion Awards were received by Senator George Edwards and Senator Guy Guzzone for their outstanding leadership and public service in advocating for policy solutions to greatly benefit rural communities. Senator Edwards has a long record of public service. He was elected to the Senate in 2006 where he currently serves on the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee. Senator Edwardspreviously served in the House of Delegates from 1983 to 2007 as well as Commissioner with the Board of County Commissioners, Garrett County, 1974 to1978. He has strongly supported efforts to improve the quality of life in Western Maryland and all of the state’s rural communities. He served on the Task Force for Rural Internet, Broadband, Wireless and Cellular Service and currently serves (and sponsored) on the Task Force for the Economic Future of Western Maryland as well as fought to establish and increase funding for the State’s Lakes Restoration and Improvement Fund. Additionally, he sponsored the creation of the Off-Highway Recreational Vehicle Trail Fund to be used to maintain and construct trails for off-highway recreational vehicles. The award was received by Senator Edwards.

Senator Guzzone was first elected to the Maryland House of Delegates in 2006 and served between 2007 and 2015. In 2014, he was elected to the Maryland Senate in 2014 where he currently serves as Chair of the Senate Budget and Taxation Committee. During the 2021 Legislative Session, Senator Guzzone stood with the Rural Maryland Council in its request for supplemental budget funds. He also submitted a letter of support to the Governor of inclusion of funds in the Operating Budget. He had been a supporter of employee-owned businesses sponsoring legislation allowing a subtraction modification under the State income tax for income from a qualified transfer of stock or membership interest of a Maryland corporation or limited liability company to certain employee ownership entities. The senator’s District Manager Rick Benner accepted the award on his behalf.

The Rural Maryland Council operates under the direction of a 40-member executive board in a nonpartisan and nondiscriminatory manner. It serves as the state’s federally designated rural development council and functions as a voice for rural Maryland, advocating for and helping rural communities and businesses across the state to flourish and to gain equity to its suburban and urban counterparts. The vision for RMC is the ultimate realization that residents in rural communities are achieving success in education and employment, have access to affordable, quality health care and other vital public services, and live in an environment where natural and cultural resources are being sustained for future generations.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Archives Tagged With: commerce, local news

Rural Maryland Council Announces Fiscal Year 2022 Grant Recipients

August 28, 2021 by Rural Maryland Council (RMC)

The Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund (RMPIF) supports Rural Maryland Council’s activities including the Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund (MAERDAF), and the State’s five Regional Councils. RMPIF is designed to facilitate significant targeted investments in important economic and community development programs and promote regional and intergovernmental cooperation. MAERDAF provides capacity building grants to rural serving nonprofit organizations and community colleges that promote statewide and regional planning, health care, economic and community development, and agricultural and forestry education.

Total Requested: 141 Applications $11,180,214
Total Awarded: 59 Grants $6,150,000

Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund: 29 Grants = $5,239,212

Rural Maryland Council: 1 Grant = Disbursement: $500,000

Awardee Total Award
Rural Maryland Council $500,000

Founded in 1994, the Rural Maryland Council (RMC) serves as the state’s federally designated rural development council and functions as a voice for Rural Maryland – advocating, educating, and helping rural communities and businesses across the state to flourish and to gain equity to its suburban and urban counterparts. The Council administers the RMPIF and MAERDAF grant programs. Additionally, the Council conducts research activities to understand rural challenges and outreach to engage rural residents in developing solutions to these challenges and convenes groups to identify solutions through consensus and coalition building.

RMC operates under the direction of a 40-member Executive Board in a nonpartisan and nondiscriminatory manner. The Council’s vision is a future where all of Rural Maryland is prosperous with thriving resources, vibrant economies, and healthy, connected communities. The organizational goals are to:

  • Encourage healthy, connected communities throughout Rural Maryland through convening stakeholders, education, public relations, and advocacy;
  • Support the development and growth of vibrant economies in Rural Maryland;
  • Foster stewardship of Maryland’s natural resources; and,
  • Maximize outreach, resources, and mission through financial and organizational

Regional Councils: 5 Grants = Disbursement: $2,000,000

One-third of RMPIF supports the State’s five regional councils:

Awardee Total Award
Tri-County Council for Western Maryland $400,000
Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland $400,000
Upper Shore Regional Council $400,000
Mid-Shore Regional Council $400,000
Tri-County Council for the Lower Eastern Shore $400,000

Regional Council activities funded through RMPIF, include:

  • Equity lending
  • Transportation software and systems
  • Regional agricultural development and education
  • Economic and small business development activities
  • Rural economic research

Examples of projects funded include the following:

  • The Tri-County Council for Western Maryland has developed a successful lending program for small businesses and entrepreneurs in their region, named Summit Financing Solutions. This program uses Federal, State, and local dollars to operate a number of loan funds that allow the Council to provide gap-financing and direct
  • The Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland directs the Skillup® Southern Maryland, which is a program designed to help their region build a workforce ecosystem that supports positive economic development. Through this program and wraparound Federal supportive services, job seekers can explore career pathways, view local job postings, register for free online learning, and receive workforce services. Employers can search for qualified candidates, post jobs, and receive in-depth consulting to address hiring and training needs.
  • The Upper Shore Regional Council will continue to support the Upper Shore Career Technical Liaison position and program for Kent and Queen Anne’s As well as provide micro grants that allows teachers and mentors to assist high school seniors graduating from qualifying technical programs in their region to purchase the necessary tools and equipment to begin at their career.
  • The Mid-Shore Regional Council will fund the People for Change Coalition, Inc. to implement a summer career enrichment program for middle school students in partnership with the Dorchester Career and Technology The Youth Cyber Security Program is designed to lead to career paths in computer science, engineering, and project management.
  • The Tri-County Council for the Lower Eastern Shore will co-sponsor the Worcester County Skilled Trades, Agriculture, Technology and Tourism Internship Program (WSTATT-IP). This is a work-based learning experience that provides high school students and recent graduates from Worcester County paid internships that focus in the STATT sectors.

The RMPIF grant program has three focus areas-Health Care, Entrepreneurship, and Infrastructure. In FY2022, this program received 56 applications totaling $6,231,452 in requests. Of these requests, 23 grants totaling $2,739,212 were awarded.

RMPIF Health Care: 12 Grants = $966,449

Awardee Total Award
Allegany County Human Resources Development Commission $60,000
Channel Marker, Inc $125,000
Corsica River Mental Health Services, Inc. $7,500
For All Seasons, Inc. $72,225
Fort Ritchie Community Center, Inc. $25,000
Garrett County Memorial Hospital DBA Garrett Regional Medical Center $143,000
Health Partners Inc. $129,300
Maintaining Active Citizens, Inc. $50,000
TidalHealth $125,000
Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland $87,500
University of Maryland Shore Regional Health at Chestertown $125,000
Women Supporting Women, Inc. $16,924

RMPIF Entrepreneurship: 5 Grants = $647,763

Awardee Total Award
Frederick Innovative Technology Center, Inc. $160,000
Maryland Small Business Development Center, Northern Region at Harford Community College $142,763
People for Change Coalition $70,000
The Greater Cumberland Committee $175,000
University of Maryland Eastern Shore-Department of Agriculture, Food and Resource Sciences $100,000

RMPIF Infrastructure: 6 Grants = $1,125,000

Awardee Total Award
End Hunger in Calvert County $250,000
Fair Hill Foundation $50,000
It Takes a Village to Help Our Children, Inc. $200,000
Maryland Rural Development Corporation $25,000
Town of Rising Sun $300,000
United States Bomb Technician Association $300,000

Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund: 30 Grants = $910,788

The MAERDAF grant program has five focus areas-Agricultural and Forestry Education, Community and Economic Development, Rural Broadband, Energy, and Youth Engagement. In FY2022, this program received 79 applications totaling $2,448,763 in requests. Of these requests, 30 grants totaling $910,788 were awarded.

MAERDAF Agricultural and Forestry Education: 6 Grants = $133,140

Awardee Total Award
Allegany College of Maryland $40,000
Chesapeake Culinary Center $13,000
LEAD Maryland Foundation, Inc. $30,000
Maryland Agricultural Education Foundation $10,390
Steam Onward, Inc. $13,450
Western Maryland Resource Conservation and Development Council $26,300

MAERDAF Community and Economic Development: 19 Grants = $608,633

Awardee Total Award
Bay Community Support Services, Inc. $27,200
Beach to Bay Heritage Area $40,000
Catoctin Furnace Historical Society, Inc $40,000
Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum $34,535
Chesapeake Housing Mission Inc. $30,000
Community Mediation Maryland $40,000
Evergreen Heritage Center Foundation $25,000
For All Seasons, Inc. $38,682
Forever Maryland Foundation $28,600
Garrett College $40,000
Habitat for Humanity Choptank, Inc. $29,202
Habitat For Humanity of Wicomico County, Inc. $40,000
Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area, Inc. $20,000
Maryland Rural Development Corporation $40,000
Mid-Atlantic Gigabit Innovation Collaboratory $15,414
Mid-Shore Pro Bono, Inc. $21,000
The Greater Cumberland Committee $40,000
Western Maryland Resource Conservation and Development Council $40,000
Western Maryland Resource Conservation and Development Council $19,000

MAERDAF Energy: 2 Grants = $62,000

Awardee Total Award
Adkins Arboretum $40,000
Forest Glen Commonwealth, Inc. $22,000

MAERDAF Youth Engagement: 3 Grants = $107,015

Awardee Total Award
Maryland Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education $30,000
Preservation Maryland $37,015
The Parents’ Place of Maryland $40,000

For More Information, visit the RMC website: www.rural.maryland.gov

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Archives Tagged With: commerce, local news

Rural Maryland Council Opens Fiscal Year 2022 Grant Programs

April 20, 2021 by Rural Maryland Council (RMC)

The Rural Maryland Council (RMC) is pleased to announce that the Fiscal Year 2022 Grant Portal will open on Monday, April 26, 2021 and will be accepting letters of intent to apply for the Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund (MAERDAF) and the Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund (RMPIF) for the Fiscal Year 2022 funding cycle. Information about these grant opportunities and access to the online application can be found at rural.maryland.gov. Letters of Intent must be received by Friday May 21, 2021.

The legislature approved the State’s Fiscal Year 2022 Operating Budget, as well as additional funds in the Supplemental Budget submission which includes $6,118,485 in funding for MAERDAF and RMPIF. Awards are subject to funding availability. “This critical funding along with funding for broadband infrastructure in the rural areas will support economic development and recovery activities for the five Regional Councils, regional infrastructure projects, rural entrepreneurship development, rural community development and our rural health care organizations”, said RMC Executive Board Chair John Hartline. “The Rural Maryland Council would like to thank Governor Larry Hogan, Speaker Adrienne Jones of the Maryland House of Delegates and President Bill Ferguson of the Maryland Senate for their strong support in providing the necessary funds to improve the quality of life in rural communities.”

The Council will conduct two virtual information sessions to review program guidelines and criteria as well as offer a virtual grant writing workshop. Grant information sessions will be held on Tuesday, April 27, 2021 from 12:00pm to 2:00pm and Wednesday, May 5, 2021 from 12:00pm to 2:00pm. A grant writing workshop will be held on Friday, April 30, 2021 from 11:00am to 12:00pm. Visit rural.maryland.gov to register. Individual virtual appointments will also be available during the week of May 10, 2021. Please contact the RMC office at [email protected] to schedule an appointment.

Important Dates for the FY2022 Grant Cycle:

  • Grant Process Opening: Monday, April 26, 2021
  • Call for Letter of Intent Deadline: Friday, May 21, 2021
  • Full Application Deadline: Friday, July 16, 2021
  • Awards will be announced the week of August 23rd

The Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund (MAERDAF) offers financial support to rural-serving nonprofit organizations that promote statewide and regional planning, economic and community development, and agricultural and forestry education efforts. The Fund also provides targeted financial assistance to community colleges that support small and agricultural businesses through enhanced training and technical assistance offerings. The Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund provides funding for targeted investment to promote economic prosperity in Maryland’s traditionally disadvantaged and underserved rural communities.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: 5 News Notes Tagged With: local news

U.S. Senator Ben Cardin to Speak at Rural Maryland Council Legislative Luncheon

January 25, 2021 by Rural Maryland Council (RMC)

U.S. Senator Ben Cardin

U.S. Senator Ben Cardin, Maryland’s senior senator and former Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates, will be the featured guest speaker for this year’s Rural Maryland Council (RMC) legislative luncheon to be held on Friday, January 29, from noon to 2 p.m. via Zoom. The event is free.

For information, visit rural.maryland.gov, or email [email protected]. To register visit https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07ehikcvig0fcdac5c&oseq=&c=&ch=

Senator Cardin is a staunch believer that access to affordable, quality health care should be considered a right, not a privilege, and is a leading advocate for the Chesapeake Bay. He was first elected to the U.S. Senate in 2006, and currently serves as chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business & Entrepreneurship. Senator Cardin also serves as senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations and Environment & Public Works committees, in addition to sitting on the Senate Finance Committee.

During the luncheon attendees will hear reports from Rural Maryland Council working groups and will discuss the slate of priorities for the Maryland General Assembly’s 2021 Legislative Session.

These priorities include:

  • Advocating for continued funding of $6 million for the Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund (RMPIF) to address disparities in unemployment and poverty rates in Maryland’s rural communities and to support economic development programs;
  • Supporting the Governor Hogan’s FY 2022 Capital Budget Appropriation of approximately $10 million for the Local Government Infrastructure Fund in the Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development to create and retain vibrancy in rural communities including rural broadband expansion;
  • Encouraging rural economic development in the form of tax credits to new or expanding businesses as well as for private angel investments;
  • Advocating for tax credits and a sales tax exemption to support broadband expansion services and broadband equipment;
  • Supporting programs and policies that will sustain and enhance agricultural production and agritourism;
  • Addressing the shortage of health care professionals by enabling and expanding telehealth to provide access to preventative and critical care services in rural areas.  

Established in 1995, the Rural Maryland Council is an independent state agency, which brings together rural leaders, government officials at all levels, and representatives of the non-profit and for-profit sectors to develop public policy solutions to the challenges unique to rural Maryland. RMC operates under the direction of a 40-member executive board in a nonpartisan and nondiscriminatory manner with the goal to improve the quality of life while preserving the cultural heritage of Maryland’s rural communities.

For more information, visit rural.maryland.gov, call (410) 841-5772, or email [email protected]. Connect with the Rural Maryland Council at facebook.com/RuralMaryland or on Twitter @RuralMaryland.

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Filed Under: Eco Notes Tagged With: Ecosystem, local news

Rural Maryland Council Marks 25 years of Championing Rural Heritage and Equity

January 24, 2021 by Rural Maryland Council (RMC)

In 1994 when Maryland Governor William Donald Schaefer signed an executive order designating a “rural development council” for Maryland, he had no way of knowing he would set in motion the formation of a new institution that would touch the lives of hundreds of thousands of people, not just in rural Maryland, but in every corner of the state.

The following year, the council organized itself as the “FORVM for Rural Maryland” and was permanently established by an act of the State legislature, adopted by a unanimous vote of both houses of the Maryland General Assembly. The ancient Roman word “forvm” distinguished its mission, to provide a place for local and State leaders to exchange ideas and pursue solutions to the issues facing Maryland’s rural communities.

Photo: Bill signing ceremony for legislation establishing the FORVM for Rural Maryland on May 9, 1995. Seated, from left, are: Maryland Senate President Thomas V. “Mike” Miller, Jr.; Governor Parris N. Glendening; and Treasurer Richard N. Dixon. Standing to the right of Senator Miller and behind the Governor are Gary V. Hodge, founding chairman of the FORVM, and William “Bill” Walker, executive director, with members of the FORVM’s board and staff. Photo by Maryland State Archives

Today—25 years later—re-named the Rural Maryland Council (RMC), it continues to distinguish itself in its efforts to champion the cause of rural Marylanders while emphasizing the importance of working with suburban and urban communities to create a stronger, united Maryland. “It’s true that our rural communities are faced with challenges that need to be resolved differently from our suburban and urban counterparts,” says Charlotte L. Davis, RMC executive director and fourth executive director for the group. “But when you really get down to it there is more that we have in common than what separates us.”

Throughout its history, the RMC has never backed away from the big, difficult and often controversial issues like wastewater, inadequate access to health care, financial resources and broadband. From the beginning it has remained steadfast in problem solving using two important tools: Giving voice to rural Marylanders and creating partnerships.

Photo: In 2019, RMC executive director Charlotte L. Davis earned the Partners for Rural America (PRA) Ron Shaffer Award. From left, are: Jerry Townsend, co-chair of the PRA Nominating Committee; PRA chair, Jessica AcMoody and Charlotte L. Davis, PRA chair emeritus. The award acknowledges individuals who excel at national or state rural development councils. Selection criteria include the ability to overcome barriers, as well as demonstrating a proficiency in collaboration and building partnerships, and creating impact. 

Using these tools, RMC has racked up some impressive accomplishments including:

  • Creating the Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund (MAERDAF) which to date has funded more than $5.8 million in grants.
  • Establishing the Tri-County Council for the Lower Eastern Shore, Mid Shore Regional Council and Maryland Agricultural and Resource Based Industry Development Corporation (MARBIDCO).
  • Receiving a National Rural Impact Award in 2001 from the National Rural Development Partnership (USDA) for its work. It would be the first of many accolades the USDA would bestow on RMC.
  • Establishing the Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund (RMPIF) in 2006 and waging a decade-long battle to get it funded, which finally came in 2016. To date it has funded more than $14 million in grants.  
  • Co-hosting a regional forum on Rural Broadband in partnership with USDA Rural Development and taking a leadership role in sifting through the many complex issues related to broadband to produce recommendations for legislative action. Its executive director Charlotte L. Davis was tapped by the Maryland legislature to head the Task      Force on Rural Internet, Broadband, Wireless, and Cellular Service.
  • Facilitating the addition of money to the Rural Broadband Assistance Fund. State funding for this initiative was $11.8 million between 2008 and 2011.
  • Gaining national recognition in 2019 when Partners for Rural America (PRA) bestowed its coveted Ron Shaffer Award to executive director Charlotte L. Davis. The award acknowledges an individual who excels in building a national and state rural development partnership.

Photo: On February 9, 2017, Maryland Governor Larry Hogan, right, presented a proclamation recognizing Rural Maryland Day to Charlotte L. Davis, RMC executive director; and Josh Hastings, RMC board chair. Photo by Joe Andrucyk

Perhaps the best appraisal of an organization’s success is whether it measures up to its founders’ expectations. “When I founded the organization with Bill Walker 25 years ago, and drafted the State legislation that established the FORVM for Rural Maryland, we hoped it would continue to be a powerful voice for Maryland’s rural communities for many years to come,” says Gary V. Hodge, founding chairman of the FORVM from 1994-97, and executive director of the Tri-County Council for Southern Maryland from 1980 to 1998. “As is always true, the effectiveness of an institution depends on the ability and commitment of the people who lead it and support its mission,” he adds.

And for 25 years and counting, the Rural Maryland Council has answered that call.​ “Although much has changed since the creation of the Rural Maryland Council, we remain dedicated to the core values of preserving rural heritage, advocating for equity, and engaging partners and stakeholders to help build strong, resilient rural communities,” says John Hartline, RMC chair.

​The Rural Maryland Council operates under the direction of a 40-member executive board in a nonpartisan and nondiscriminatory manner. It serves as the state’s federally designated rural development council and functions as a voice for rural Maryland, advocating for rural communities and businesses across the state to help them flourish and achieve equity with their suburban and urban counterparts. For more information, visit rural.maryland.gov, email [email protected] or connect with the Rural Maryland Council at facebook.com/RuralMaryland or on Twitter @RuralMaryland.

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Filed Under: Archives Tagged With: commerce, local news

Rural Maryland Council Opens Fiscal Year 2021 Grant Programs

April 30, 2020 by Rural Maryland Council (RMC)

The Rural Maryland Council (RMC) is pleased to announce it is accepting letters of intent to apply for the Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund (MAERDAF) and the Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund (RMPIF) for the Fiscal Year 2021 funding cycle. Information about these grant opportunities and access to the online application can be found at www.ruralmaryland.gov. Letters of Intent must be received by Friday May 29, 2020.

During the recent shortened Legislative Session, the legislature approved the State’s Fiscal Year 2021 Operating Budget which includes $6,327,575 in funding for MAERDAF and RMPIF. Awards are subject to funding availability. “This important funding supports the states’ five regional councils, regional infrastructure projects, rural entrepreneurship development, rural community development and our rural health care organizations”, said RMC Executive Board Chair John Hartline. “The Rural Maryland Council would like to thank Governor Larry Hogan, Speaker Adrienne Jones of the Maryland House of Delegates and President Bill Ferguson of the Maryland Senate for their strong support in providing the necessary funds to improve the quality of life in rural communities.”

The Council will conduct two virtual information sessions to review program guidelines and criteria as well as answer questions from participants. Sessions will be held on Tuesday May 5, 2020 at 10:00 am and Friday May 8, 2020 at 10:00 am. Log-in information can be found on the Council’s website, www.rural.maryland.gov. Individual appointments will also be available during the week of May 11, 2020. Please contact the RMC office at [email protected] to schedule an appointment.

Important Dates for the FY2021 Grant Cycle:
• Grant Process Opening: Monday, April 27, 2020
• Call for Letter of Intent Deadline: Friday, May 29, 2020
• Full Application Deadline: Friday, July 24, 2020
• Awards will be announced by Monday, August 17, 2020

The Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund (MAERDAF) offers financial support to rural-serving nonprofit organizations that promote statewide and regional planning, economic and community development, and agricultural and forestry education efforts. The Fund also provides targeted financial assistance to community colleges that support small and agricultural businesses through enhanced training and technical assistance offerings. The Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund provides funding for targeted investment to promote economic prosperity in Maryland’s traditionally disadvantaged and underserved rural communities.

“A Collective Voice for Rural Maryland”

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Filed Under: Archives Tagged With: local news, The Talbot Spy

Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) Featured Speaker at Legislative Luncheon

January 22, 2019 by Rural Maryland Council (RMC)

The Legislative Luncheon will take place on January 25, 2019, noon to 2 p.m at Miller Senate Building, Presidents Conference Center West, 11 Bladen Street, Annapolis.

The guest speaker is U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD). Also present are the Rural Maryland Council, rural leaders, legislators and government officials.

Maryland is currently experiencing a short-term budget surplus for Fiscal Year 2020. However, budget deficits are projected for Fiscal Year 2021, which are anticipated to grow to almost $1.4 billion by Fiscal Year 2024. With this looming deficit on the horizon and the fact that according to the Maryland Department of Legislative Services, Maryland economic growth has underperformed with employment growth of 0.8% in the first half of 2018, the Rural Maryland Council has established 2019 legislative priorities including:

• Advocating for continued funding for Rural Maryland Prosperity Investment Fund (RMPIF) to address disparities in unemployment and poverty rates in Maryland’s rural communities;
• Encouraging rural economic development in the form of tax credits;
• Supporting the recommendations offered by the Task Force on Rural Internet, Broadband, Wireless and Cellular Service;
• Creating viable Agriculture, Aquaculture, Forestry & Rural Communities by supporting programs and policies that will sustain and enhance agricultural production and agritourism; and
• Addressing the shortage of health care professionals by supporting efforts to enable and expand telehealth to provide access to preventative and critical care services in rural areas.

Founded in 1994, the Rural Maryland Council (RMC) is an independent state agency that brings together rural leaders, government officials at all levels, and the representatives of the non-profit and for-profit sectors to develop public policy solutions to the challenges unique to rural Maryland. RMC operates under the direction of a 40-member executive board in a nonpartisan and nondiscriminatory manner. It serves as the state’s federally designated rural development council and functions as a voice for rural Maryland, advocating for and helping rural communities and businesses across the state to flourish and to gain equity to its suburban and urban counterparts.  To learn more, call (410) 841-5774, email [email protected] or connect with RMC at facebook.com/RuralMaryland or on Twitter @RuralMaryland.

The Spy Newspapers may periodically employ the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the clarity and accuracy of our content.

Filed Under: Maryland News

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