News of the Arroyo
Title: | City approves naming trail after Begley |
Subtitle: | |
Date: | 2004-12-08 |
Summary: | December 8, 2004 - Pasadena has named a rediscovered trail after the late Arroyo Brigade stalwart Roy Begley. |
Author: | Gene Maddaus, Staff Writer |
Publication: | Pasadena Star News |
Content: | City approves naming trail after Begley Arroyo Seco footpath will carry name of political gadfly By Gene Maddaus Staff Writer Monday, December 06, 2004 - PASADENA -- Happy trails, Roy Begley. You get a path named after you, after all. Councilman Steve Madison withdrew his objections to christening a hiking trail in the Arroyo Seco for the late gadfly Monday night, and the City Council unanimously agreed that it was a fitting tribute. Madison raised a red flag when the issue came up two weeks ago, questioning the city\'s procedure for naming landmarks after notable local figures. Madison made it clear he had no quarrel with Begley, a perennial council critic who died nearly three years ago, but was more concerned that a precedent could be set. In brief remarks Monday night, Madison said he had conferred with the city\'s staff and considered a proposal to name a \"different part\' of the Arroyo for Begley. But ultimately, he decided it was appropriate to name the trail, which runs parallel to Arroyo Boulevard, south of the bird fountain, after Begley. \"I think we need to be thoughtful about how and when we do this,\' he cautioned, before indicating he would support the measure. Ray Dashner, Begley\'s longtime friend, said he and Begley spent years restoring trails in the Arroyo Seco as part of what they called the Arroyo Brigade. \"All of this was done by two retired people,\' Dashner said. \"The physical effort was immense.\' Dashner initiated the effort to name the trail after Begley out of frustration that a \"meditation bench\' meant to recognize Begley had not yet been installed in the Arroyo. \"I was kind of surprised to see it was interrupted for a technicality,\' Dashner said. \"The memories of Roy are still vivid for a lot of people in this city.\' Begley was a colorful figure in Pasadena City Council history, showing up routinely for 18 years to decry public transportation, among other things, and promote the idea of licensed, commercial jitney services. He was an occasional candidate for public office, and served for a time on the Recreation and Parks Commission. The Roy Begley Walk is the first case to come up under the city\'s new naming policy for public park space, which was passed in May. The policy states that it is appropriate to name park features for those who have made \"a significant contribution\' in the field of parks and recreation. Gene Maddaus can be reached at (626) 578-6300, Ext. 4444, or by e-mail at gene.maddaus@sgvn.com . |
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