So I was roaming around on the net and look what I found...the ever elusive Aaron Kupchella! Apparently he's in the Beijing Big Band. Pretty damn cool. I found this within Facebook. Anyone know if he's got an account on Facebook?


P.S. - The pic came out a little small here...but that's definitely him on the far left.

Reorganizing

I reorganized the stuff on the right side of the blog, hope you guys don't mind. I think it would be cool if we let each other know about movies, books or music that we enjoyed (or if you didn't like it, save somebody the $10 they were going to spend on that movie). It's really easy to do, just make sure you're logged in and then click on the little button below each section or click on customize at the top right. My ratings were on a 5 * scale, but rate things however you like.

A new bank

I posted this on my blog, and thought it would be interesting to discuss on this blog as well.

I have several blog posts churning around in my head. One on the current financial situation and God's economy. One about ministering to those that hold positions of power. One about the importance of mission of outreach in the face of recession and depression. But, the thoughts haven't crystalized quite yet. Maybe they aren't appropriate for a blog post, but rather a conversation or two.

Earlier this fall, Peter and I switched banks for our savings account. I read a book about consumerism this summer that got me thinking more about the relationship between micro and macro economics and our community. As an urban planner/community developer, my partner Peter found a great bank in Chicago/Detroit/Cleveland called ShoreBank. Their misssion is "to be a community development and environmental bank that enjoys a proud heritage of serving Chicago, Cleveland and Detroit. ShoreBank is committed to building stronger communities, creating a healthier environment, and helping its customers achieve financial success. When you bank at ShoreBank, you will experience friendly, expert customer service while also having the satisfaction of knowing that your deposits will have a positive impact in the community."

I can't argue with that. Not only is their savings account high yielding (as competitive as an ING account), but it also gives back to the community. Something "conservatives" and "liberals" can agree on.

Check out the history and vision here.

I won't pontificate about the current situation of other banks. It's complex. The solution will be complex. But, I am encouraged that there are alternative options for stewarding money and resources.

Also, if anyone is looking for a helpful budgeting/finance tool: mint.com has become our new friend. I'm visual, and seeing a pie chart of our expenses each month by category is great. The software is free, safe, and great.

What are your thoughts on money and the economy? What does stewardship of resources look like? Is there a boundary between stewardship and hoarding?