Archive for May, 2010

UPCOB joins the Prince Georges County Crop Walk

pam May 7th, 2010

Last Sunday, May 2, UPCOB had a strong showing of people walking on behalf of the hungry locally and around the world.  It was a beautiful day for all the walkers!  Here’s a group picture of UPCOB walkers.  Donations are still being collected by the walkers and while a portion of the money is sent to the far reaches of the earth a percentage is also kept in Prince George’s County for the growing population of hungry and homeless.  If you would like to donate to this years CROP Walk please make your check out to CWS-CROP Walk and see Erin Rutter or any of this years walkers.

This years CROP Walk had some educational pieces on the course to help make us keenly aware of water issues people face around the world.  Katie makes it look easy to hold this filled 5 gallon jug of water next to her head.  But Katie is athletic and really pretty strong.  I have to admit this jug was on a folding chair and I could barely lift it 5 inches off the chair.  It’s hard, no it’s impossible to imagine having to carry this jug 3 feet let alone 6 to 8 miles walking.  It’s an incredible reminder of how those who have in the world need to help those who have not.

2010 UPCOB CROP Walkers

Katie holding a 5 gallon jug filled with water

Katie holding a 5 gallon jug filled with water

UPCOB signs Power Purchase Agreement with University Park Solar LLC

pam May 7th, 2010

On Sunday April 24, 2010 UPCOB entered into a historic and hopefully growing movement of agreeing to purchase power in the near future from the University Park Solar LLC.  Solar panels purchased by University Park Solar LLC will be installed on the south roof of the church building in the next month or so.  Everyone participating in this venture is hoping that this kind of arrangement will be a model for other communities and other churches. 

Keep checking back here for a posting on the installation day and celebration Sunday when the panels will be turned on and UPCOB will be solar powered!

Keith Rutter and Hooker Monroe sign the purchase power agreement on behalf of The University Park Church of the Brethren

Keith Rutter and Hooker Monroe sign the purchase power agreement on behalf of The University Park Church of the Brethren

Of interest:  Md. neighborhood funds solar plant at church, By Hayley Peterson, Washington Examiner.com, April 27, 2010.