MIDDENDORF FOUNDATION AWARD
The Greater Ruxton Area Foundation (GRAF) is pleased to announce the awarding of a $10,000 grant from the Middendorf Foundation for rehab work at the Rider House. This grant triggered a combined equal match by the Ruxton, Riderwood, Lake Roland Area Improvement Association, primary tenants of the Rider House, and GRAF, owners and restorers of this Victorian cottage circa 1880 Baltimore County Landmark property. Two GRAF board members have individually contributed an additional $5,000.
The funds will be used to improve rear access and install a new kitchen area to serve tenants and visitors. During the house restoration in 2001, funds were not available to rehab this interior area, but now due to deteriorating health, safety and convenience issues, time has arrived to make improvements absolutely necessary. Work will include new counters, flooring, removal of antiquated toilet, shower stall, mold and ceiling rot. These unfortunate conditions had existed from when the house was used as a rental unit prior to Arden Counts acquisition. The house had been scheduled for demotion after competition of the Arden Court facility before GRAF intervened.
Tom Weadock, President of GRAF related that, “these improvements represent a team effort of ‘community patriots’ and will ensure an appropriate facility to conduct the affairs our neighborhood. Our deepest appreciation goes to the Middendorf Foundation and its Board for their vote of confidence in our mission of beautification and preservation.”