Leading the Way
Cycling is one of thesimplest ways to reduce fossil fuel consumption. Besides the natural health benefits of riding a bike, it is also one of the most economical andenvironmental actions that a person can take.
The sustainability mantra is becoming louder in the twenty-first century, but there is an environmentalist who has been talking “greenspeak” long before it was fashionable. Actor Ed Begley, Jr. is known as Hollywood’s “Green Giant.”
I knew Ed for his portrayal of Dr. Victor Ehrlich in the hit show “St. Elsewhere,” – for which he earned six Emmy nominations.He captured my attention when he rode his bike to the Emmy Awards. Everyone else arrived via limousine, each one more extravagant than the last. “That guy is crazy! He must be a nut job!” Our family sat on the couch and ridiculed the handsome actor for his hilarious stunt – it had to be a joke, right? Looking back, the Begley bicycle appearancewas the most defining moment ofallEmmy Awards. Ever. More importantly,that single actignited my awareness of sustainability…and while I am far from being a eco geek, I’m not as unconscious about sustainability as I used to be. In retrospect, Ed Begley, Jr. was far ahead of his time – and he has continued to push his environmental work forward, firmly establishing himself as a national leader in sustainability.
Mr. Begley is coming to Seattle on July 27 to celebrate green living at a Town Hall event called “Leading the Way Toward a Sustainable Future.” He is the keynote speaker and will deliver a talk titled “Live Simply So Others Can Simply Live.” The event will also feature architect Matthew Coates, who has designed one of the greenest homes in WashingtonState. Mr. Coates and his team of Architects, as well as homeowners Ed & Joanne Ellisare receiving their LEED Platinum Certificate at this event. The award aspect of this event conjures up memories of the Emmy Awards. Ride a bike.
Town Hall is at the center of town, atEighth Avenueand Seneca Streets. Traffic is fairly congested at the end of the day, so it makes perfect sense to ride a bike to this event. Ed Begley, Jr. says, "My transportation hierarchy is: 1) walking, 2) riding my bike, 3) public transportation, 4) electric car, 5) hybrid car. I always travel with this hierarchy in mind."Organizers are offering discounts on tickets to everyone who participates in the Ed Begley hierarchy of transportation, reducing fossil fuel consumption.
When I ride my bike to this special event, people won’t think I’m a nut job or crazy - in fact, I bet a bunch of people will have the same idea. It seems a perfect tribute to the Green Giant and a wonderful way to practice sustainable living. Thank You, Mr. Begley, for Leading the Way Toward a Sustainable Future