For representatives of Maryand’s rural counties attending the MACo winter conference, an additional discussion for Thursday afternoon may prove to be of interest. From the conference program:

Maryland is often described as “America in Miniature,” and much of that culture and heritage is attributable to the more rural parts of the State. From Mountain Maryland to the Eastern Shore, rural counties have a wide range of geographic and demographic diversity — but also have many issues and challenges in common. At this forum, join rural county leaders and the MACo policy staff to discuss means to help organize the rural county view on policy issues in Annapolis, coordinate with rural legislators, and to heighten county officials’ focus on programs with particular effect in less-developed areas.

The forum is scheduled for 3:30 on Thursday, January 7 — just after the affiliate “breakout” sessions scheduled for earlier that afternoon — and will be held in the Cutter Room (A and B).

Haven’t registered yet for the conference? Head to the MACo website to see the overview, and then get the latest brochure and registration form. Don’t miss it!