Montgomery Parks and the Montgomery Parks Foundation are celebrating the opening of the SEED Classroom, an innovative learning space, on Saturday, May 18, 2024. SEED is an acronym for Sustainable Education Every Day. The new classroom at Black Hill Regional Park (20930 Lake Ridge Dr., Boyds, MD) will increase the educational opportunities available at the park.
The SEED classroom showcases how an environmentally friendly building functions. The living lab space, large open classroom, and covered deck will be used for a park-based nature preschool program, school field trips, and private and public events. “The SEED classroom is an innovative amenity that we can use as a learning tool,” said Miti Figueredo, director of Montgomery Parks. “Students can come to see how the renewable energy systems work and imagine a future where sustainable buildings are the norm.”
The SEED classroom is a net-zero energy user. The building produces all the water and power it needs to function with a rainwater cistern that waters a living plant wall inside the building, a composting toilet, and solar panels on the roof to generate electricity. “The addition of the 6.5 kWh solar array and rainwater capture system allows the SEED Classroom to meet net-zero goals and serve as a hands-on teaching tool for children,” said Johnny Richardson, program manager of Green Mountain Energy Sun Club, one of the SEED classroom’s major financial supporters. “Our Sun Club grants are designed to promote sustainability and support important causes in the community.”
The Montgomery Parks Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Montgomery Parks, coordinated efforts to provide funding for the project. “The Montgomery Parks Foundation is thrilled to partner with Montgomery Parks and the community to bring this special space to life. Thanks to philanthropic support, this unique classroom was made possible and will be a valuable resource to county residents for years to come,” said Katie Rictor, executive director of the Montgomery Parks Foundation. Major financial support for the SEED classroom has been provided by:
- Maryland General Assembly bond bill
- Green Mountain Energy Sun Club
- Montgomery County Economic Development Corporation
- First Energy Foundation
- Wegmans
- Friends of Black Hill Nature Programs
The SEED classroom is located at a former park maintenance yard. It brings new life to that area and a connection to the nearby Black Hill Community Garden and greenhouse. It is near walking trails, a large stream, and wetland areas.
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Oak Chapel is excited that Priority Partners Managed Care Organization (PPMCO) in partnership with Johns Hopkins HealthCare (JHHC) have selected the Oak Chapel Hub as the location for the first mini-food pantry/mini library in Montgomery County. Please join us for the cupboard unveiling on Saturday, May 18th, at 10 AM (rain or shine). This is scheduled to be an outdoor event. If there is inclement weather, the event will be held in the multi-purpose room of the main church building (Hub distribution location). The cupboard will be fully stocked and ready for the community to take what they need and leave what they can. It is a privilege to be able to continue to serve the 20906 community.
Fighting food insecurity, feeding families.
Movie being filmed in McLean, VA, needs your support
A local community movie is filming in our area in June and needs contributions!
Local actors, teens, teachers, housewives, and retired residences are trying to make this film happen but we need your help.
This is an educational short story about teens learning how to navigate when they don't feel accepted by their friends and what to do to find acceptance. Yet this film isn't just for teens. In your life have you ever felt like you weren't accepted??
Come be a part of the audience for this film! Invite your friends. Be a part of this film being produced right here in our area.
This is a social impact film that will show locally and internationally at film festivals in 2025 and also at colleges.
More information can be found here. DONATE TODAY:
https://www.filmindependent.org/sponsored-projects/ultimate-bias/
https://www.silvanomarifilms.com/jis
This is a not-for-profit film and donations are tax-deductible.
Free Community Father-Daughter Dance
Fathers and father figures, create unforgettable memories with your daughter at our free community father-daughter dance on June 1st, from 6-8 pm. Hosted outdoors at Olney Baptist Church. This event offers a delightful outdoor experience complete with a DJ spinning tunes, interactive games, a charming photo booth, delicious treats, and exciting raffle prizes. Fathers/father figures and daughters of all ages are warmly welcomed to share in this special evening together. Join us for an evening of joy, laughter, and cherished moments!
In the spirit of giving back to our community, we are partnering with Quest to Feed Montgomery to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need. We kindly ask each attendee to bring along a non-perishable food item to donate during the event. Every contribution, no matter how small, will go a long way in supporting families facing food insecurity in our area.
