Ed presented awards to local individuals and businesses which have shown a special awareness of environmental issues and have worked toward resolving eco-problems in Northern Illinois.

Outstanding Corporate Friend of the Environment: Rockford Park District for recycling, energy-efficient vehicles, and other programs

Outstanding Individual Friend of the Environment: Jan Lindenmier, who founded the local Earth Day celebration and has been involved in environmental education for youth for decades

Hutchcroft Environmental Youth Award: Harlem Middle School Learning Lab for collecting 20-ounce soda bottles, empty juice pouches and shiny “health bar” wrappings to earn money and keep the materials out of landfills

Ed Begley, Jr., is Hollywood's go-to guy for all things eco-friendly. For thirty years Ed's motto has been "Live simply so that others can simply live," and he was walking the green walk long before it became trendy, advising a host of Hollywood luminaries on the simple changes they could make to live a more earth-friendly life.

For more information on Ed Begley, Jr. and his efforts, go to http://www.edbegley.com/

WTVO/WQRF is a proud sponsor of this event