Power to the People at Power in the Park

Power to the People was the objective of Power in the Park. The play on words created a certain flair and stirred interest and energy in this unique event. The second annual Power in the Park event on Thursday, August 11, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at New Hampshire Estates Neighborhood Park Power in the Park aimed to assist individuals and families in the Long Branch community to get connected to energy savings programs and information on using electricity more efficiently.

The event started with a bang and held the patrons attention. District 20 Delegate for Maryland, Lorig Charkoudian, did the introductions and later invited a representative from each energy organization or agency that attended the event to welcome the audience.

Power in the Park boasted a variety of organizations, vendors, and booths. These included Solar United Neighbors, PEPCO, Green and Healthy Homes Initiative, Montgomery County Dept. of Environment, and Chesapeake Climate Action Network, just to name a few. The event was stamped as successful as it attracted more than 200 patrons. Attendees anxiously and excitedly learned how to lower their energy usage and associated costs.

One guest remarked, "This is the first time for me and my family to attend an event like this, and I like it because it feels like a community where families share some music, food, and conversations." While another mentioned, "This is the second year I have attended this event, and I am impressed by the number of attendees."

Many small businesses and community organizations came out in support of Power in the Park. In addition, Jalapeño Mexican Grill provided complimentary refreshments, while some volunteers provided games and activities for the kids. CHEER is proud of the success of this event! The community engagement was superb as CHEER managed to enlist almost 30 volunteers!