Bowie Insider Issue #316

💬 QOD, City of Bowie Offering Grants, Take the Bowie Insider Quick Survey, Deadline to Apply for Student Loan Debt Relief Tax Credit, Calling All Artists, Community Flea Market, Events and Activities 🗓️, 🤣Meme

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Bowie Insider
July 31, 2025

In this issue of the Bowie Insider…

💬 Quote of the Day
📰 Apply Now: City of Bowie Offering Grants for Creative, Civic, and Classroom Initiatives
📰 Take the Bowie Insider Quick Survey
📰 Deadline to Apply for Student Loan Debt Relief Tax Credit
📰 Calling All Artists: Building Community Art Exhibit
📰 Save the Date: Community Flea Market August 16
🗓️ Events and Activities
🤣 Meme of the Day
📍 Having an Event? List it for free
📣 Local Business & Organization Spotlight Apply Here or Nominate one

Quote of the Day

“Do not stop thinking of life as an adventure. You have no security unless you can live bravely, excitingly, imaginatively; unless you can choose a challenge instead of competence.” ~ Eleanor Roosevelt

Apply Now: City of Bowie Offering Grants for Creative, Civic, and Classroom Initiatives

The City of Bowie has officially opened its grant application process for the 2025–2026 fiscal year, offering funding opportunities to individuals and organizations committed to enhancing local arts, education, and community outreach. Applications are now being accepted for three distinct grant programs: Arts Grants, Community Outreach Grants, and Education Grants. The deadline to submit completed applications is Thursday, September 19, 2025, by 5 p.m.

These grants are offered through the City’s Arts, Community Outreach, and Education Committees, each aiming to support initiatives that directly benefit Bowie residents through creativity, community involvement, and educational enrichment.

Arts Grants The Arts Grants are designed to support programs and projects that foster cultural enrichment through visual, literary, or performing arts. Eligible applicants include individuals, nonprofit organizations, and arts groups who are creating or presenting art within the City of Bowie. Funding can be used for public performances, art exhibits, creative workshops, and other projects that promote arts appreciation in the community.

Community Outreach Grants aim to empower community organizations to launch programs that address social needs, promote civic engagement, or support underrepresented groups in Bowie. Eligible projects may include health and wellness initiatives, neighborhood improvement efforts, youth mentoring, senior support programs, and diversity or inclusion campaigns. Applicants must demonstrate how their proposed activities will serve and positively impact Bowie residents.

Education Grants are available to support innovative educational programs within Bowie schools or educational institutions. This funding is open to teachers, administrators, PTAs, and educational nonprofits. Projects may include curriculum enhancements, STEM activities, literacy programs, classroom technology improvements, or after-school learning initiatives. The focus is on enriching student learning and promoting academic achievement.

To assist prospective applicants, the City is hosting a virtual grant application clinic on Monday, August 18 at 6:00 p.m. This online session will provide a comprehensive overview of the application process, eligibility criteria, and tips for preparing strong proposals. Participation is strongly encouraged for anyone planning to apply. The clinic can be accessed through the following link: https://bit.ly/bowiegrantsclinic.

Take the Bowie Insider Quick Survey

As a valued reader of the Bowie Insider, your feedback is essential in helping us create content that truly reflects what matters most to our community. We’re inviting you to take a quick, 3-minute survey to share your thoughts on the types of stories you enjoy, the topics you'd like to see more of, and how we can better serve your interests. Whether you’re passionate about local government, community events, schools, or neighborhood spotlights, your input will help us shape future coverage. Your voice counts—and it only takes a moment to make a big difference. Click the link below to get started. Thank you for helping us keep the Bowie Insider truly local and reader-focused!

Deadline to Apply for Student Loan Debt Relief Tax Credit is September 15

Student Loan Debt Relief Tax Credit Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Question: How do I receive the tax credit? Answer: The tax credit is claimed on your Maryland income tax return when you file your Maryland taxes. If the credit is more than the taxes you would otherwise owe, you will receive a tax refund for the difference. For example, if you owe $800 in taxes without the credit, and claim a $1,000 Student Loan Debt Relief Tax Credit, you will get a $200 refund.

Question: What application errors could cause disqualification of my application? Answer: The most frequent error MHEC encounters is incorrect lender documents.

Question: Is the state tax credit taxable at the federal level? Answer: We recommend that you consult your tax professional regarding any federal tax implications of the credit.

Question: Are Parents PLUS Loan plans eligible for the tax credit? Answer: No. The debt must have been incurred by the applicant.

Question: Where does the Maryland Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) figure come from and what if I am married filing jointly? Answer: The AGI comes from line 16 of Maryland Form 502, and you must include the full amount even if you are married filing jointly. Do not prorate it.

Calling All Artists for Building Community Art Exhibit

Image Credit: City of Bowie

Save the Date: Community Flea Market August 16

Image Credit: Village Baptist Church

Attention Bowie Business Owners, Non-profits, Civic Organizations: Get Ready for the Bowie Directory Launch!

The Bowie’s business landscape is always evolving—just think of once-popular businesses like Old Bowie Town Grille, Sears, GameStop, and Pier 1 Imports that have come and gone. Now more than ever, it’s vital for local businesses to stay visible and connected. That’s why we’re excited to announce the upcoming launch of the Bowie Directory—a new online resource designed to spotlight businesses right here in our community. With a free basic listing, the Bowie Directory will help residents discover local shops, services, and entrepreneurs with ease. Businesses will gain greater exposure, improved search visibility, and local customers. Don’t be a best kept secret in Bowie and miss your chance to be part of this powerful local resource. Sign up now to be notified when the directory goes live and secure your free listing.

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