Member Spotlight

Here's our 2nd Spotlight. This time we've selected Barbara O'Connor. She's a co-worker of Phil's and one of our first converts. In 2008, Barb went from being a single-occupant driver, cruising to work in her mini-SUV to a consistent, rain or shine alternative transportation advocate and dedicated SAG member. Check out what she has to say.... Barbara O'Connor. Thanks Barb for taking the time to be in the SAG Spotlight!!

SAG: What’s your main mode of alternative transportation?

Barbara: I ride my bike as much as I can for distance, and try to walk for closer errands. I have to say though, that since I have been logging my miles on SAG, I have become keenly aware of wasteful, lazy trips in the car. My conscience has been sensitized in yet another way that I can improve my world.

SAG: How often do you use this mode or modes?

Barbara: I typically bike commute five days a week. I also carpool to meetings more often now.

SAG: What’s your commute (from where to where) and any other details you want to add?

Barbara: I ride about 11 miles each way, from East Sacramento to Natomas. That’s the perfect distance to stay healthy, and also just about as time- efficient as it would be to drive my car in traffic.

SAG: How did you find out about SAG?

Barbara: I teach with one of SAG’s co-creators, Phil Cox. His enthusiasm was contagious!

SAG: What are your stats on SAG so far?

Barbara: I’ve been commuting to school almost every day---rain or shine--- for 16 months, and I’ve saved over 5,000 miles of wear and tear on my car, and 241 gallons of gas. That’s over $750---which I was able to put into a new road bike. I have also saved 2.34 TONS of CO2 from being released. That’s pretty amazing for just little ol’ me! Imagine if more people started using alternative transportation!

SAG: What’s your favorite stat on SAG?

Barbara: I like the mileage stats the best.

SAG: What keeps you coming back to SAG and logging your miles?

Barbara: I like numbers, and the graphs and charts that SaveaGallon displays are awesome!

SAG: Do you have any tips for other people who might be hesitant to drop the car keys and explore alternative transportation?

Barbara: There are so many benefits to using alternative transportation besides saving gas, our environment, and money:
1.) You can logically build exercise into your day by using a foot-powered mode of transportation. 2.) Carpooling provides another opportunity to foster friendships and network with others. 3.) Hands-free public transportation allows you to read for pleasure, or get extra work done on the bus or train before or after work or school. There’s really no good reason not to use alternative transportation at least some of the time.

SAG: Please add any additional information you would like us to include about you on the Saveagallon user Spotlight Section!

Barbara: I have followed the lead of my friend and colleague, Mr. Cox. My third graders are also joining the SAG movement. They encourage their parents to let them walk, ride a bike, or scooter to school. They even understand the importance of carpooling. My students get excited about the mileage graphs like I do. It’s never too early to start making a difference in our environment.