LITTLE ROCK — The Northeast Benton County Volunteer Fire Department and Emergency Medical Services was one of 14 rural organizations to recently receive funds from the state.

NEBCO received $15,000 to purchase a new tanker truck.

Gov. Mike Beebe and Department of Rural ServicesDirector Butch Calhoun presented $163,634.08 to 14 rural communities selected for Fiscal Year 2011 Cycle 2 funding through the Arkansas Rural Community Grant Program. The grant was announced during an awards ceremony held March 9, in the Governor’s Reception Room at the Arkansas capitol.

The Department of Rural Services works inpartnership with the Arkansas Rural Development Commission to administer the Arkansas Rural Community Grant Programs in three cycles each year.

Incorporated cities and towns and unincorporated communities in rural areas of less than 3,000 in population are eligible to apply for assistance through the mayor or county judge’s office.

Community, Pages 6 on 05/18/2011