Pedaling to Preserve The Planet

May 27th through June 3rd, six Brentwood College faculty (Paul Collis, Dan Norman, Laura Richardson, Lulu McCallum, Robert MacLean, and John Luna) participated in an act to preserve the planet by biking to work. “Bike to Work Week BC” is an annual event begun in 1995, and is held in multiple communities throughout British Colombia. Bike to Work Week is a promotional initiative and cycling event and is open for anyone interested. Although this event only lasts a week, some staff, like Mr. Luna, still continue to bike throughout their daily lives, “I do not drive, so unless I receive a lift from someone, the bicycle is my principle form of transportation. It affords me time to think and is energizing as well. Many teachers were able to blend it into their daily lives: “It is just a regular part of my routine, so I continued on” said Mr. Norman. As biking to work is usually a daily part of these teachers’ routines, it was an easy choice for most, or as Mr. Collis commented “As I was already pedaling, it was easy; I'm happy to spread the message that I steal from Erika Ritter: ‘Two wheels good, four wheels bad.’” Biking to work starts teachers off in a good mood for the day. It also encourages a healthy lifestyle, and, on top of all that, it helps our environment by getting more cars off the road. “I think the benefits to health and for the environment make biking to work something I endorse” Mr. Luna states. “One less car is one less car” added Mr. Collis. Like many, they both believe that biking to work is a safer and healthier alternative. Congratulations to all of the staff who cycle as much as they can to make our planet healthier. Hopefully the vibe will rub off on other staff. Wear a helmet, and pedal safe! Cole P, Whittall ‘15