Directors meet in Havre de Grace
Forty-two representatives from 12 A&E districts convened in Havre de Grace, March 25, for an annual meeting, workshop and networking at the Vandiver Inn. After introductions and district reports, a joint workshop on funding opportunities in the Community Legacy, Neighborhood Business Works, Capital and Non-Capital Grant Program, Museum Assistance and Rehab Tax Credit Programs was conducted by representatives of the Department of Housing and Community Development’s Neighborhood Revitalization Division and Maryland Department of Planning, and the Maryland Historical Trust..

Cumberland Arts & Entertainment District honored
Recognized for its significant contributions to the local economy through art and culture, the Cumberland Arts & Entertainment District received the inaugural Outstanding Achievement Award from the Department of Business and Economic Development. Assistant Secretary Hannah Byron presented the award on behalf of Gov. Martin O’Malley to Andrew Vick, director of the Allegany Arts Council.

“Under Andy’s leadership,” she said, “Cumberland has harnessed the power of the arts to attract business, encourage economic development and foster civic pride.”

Annual report documents strong program
Beginning late last year, Maryland’s 18 A&E districts were able to file annual report online through the Arts Council’s electronic reporting system. Results of this comprehensive report provided a detailed picture of a robust and thriving program for fiscal year ending June 30, 2008.

Highlights included the completion of many large-scale capital projects, such as the renovated galleries and offices for the Dorchester, Caroline and Allegany arts councils and an artists’ retail and studio project in the Gateway District. Also, a new matching grant project increased technical support and resources.

According to the reports, 74 festivals and events attracted more than 500,000 visitors. A&E districts currently house 72 galleries, 66 performance spaces and 20 museums. Five of the 18 maintain an artist registry of 98 artists. An estimated 1,000 artists live in the districts without a formal registry. Havre de Grace, West Annapolis and Frostburg are the newest districts in the program, and a new matching grant project increased technical support and resources.

Program policy change announced
Beginning in fiscal year 2011, applications for communities seeking designation as an Arts & Entertainment district will be accepted annually each fall. Effective October 1, 2010.

Contact: Elizabeth Carven, ecarven@msac.org or 410-767-8831.