Never put a brick in your toilet
By Warner M.Montgomery Warner@TheColumbiaStar.com

Dr. Larry Siegel and Don Thacker, president of the Columbia Torch Club

Dr. Larry Siegel lectured the Columbia Torch Club last week on, "Saving the world for your grandchildren." Having been a pediatric physician for many years in California, New York, and South Carolina, he has turned his attention to a "greener" world for his progeny.

Dr. Siegel gave a frightening review of climate change, greenhouse gases, global warming, disappearing species, air pollution, infectious diseases, exposure to UV rays, and boiled frogs. The latter referring to the fact that frogs put in water slowly brought to a boil will not realize their fate until it is too late. The obvious analogy is that we might not take action on our changing environment until it is too late.

"What can we do? Help us, please," asked the audience.

"It is easy being green," he replied. Then he gave many simple tips, some not so obvious, such as:

• Don't overcook veggies.

• Remove your name from junk mail lists.

• Don't use the microwave to defrost food.

• Don't take baths. • Use vinegar to wash windows.

• Never discard carpeting.

• Unplug your telephone.

• Don't buy bottled water.

• Buy locally grown food.

• Walk, don't drive. • Avoid air travel.

and most important,

• Never put a brick in your toilet. Put a bottle of water instead.

The Columbia chapter of the Torch Club, an international speakers organization, meets monthly for a great meal and an exciting talk. For information, contact Ed Latimer at 803-776-4765.