Elvis Presley is one of the most famous pop culture icons of all time, so when David Pyle wanted to spread his message of environmental responsibility, he decided there was no better way than to channel the hip-swinging, hound-dog crooning native of Tupelo, Mississippi.

Pyle will bring his 45-minute, family-oriented show, “Green E – The Environmental Elvis,” filled with music, humorous banter and dancing to the Coal Ben on the campus of Benedictine University at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 21 as part of the University’s celebration of Earth Day. The show, co-sponsored by the River Prairie Group of the Illinois Sierra Club, is free and open to the public.

Pyle, who has been performing as “Green E” at elementary and middle schools, city events, various environmental celebrations, nature centers, conventions, weddings, parks and non-profit events for more than 16 years, combines Elvis Presley music with environmentally responsible lyrics in such songs as “Are You Recycling Tonight?” and “Love Me Timber.”

An English and communications professor at Robert Morris University who performs 25-35 shows throughout the Midwest and elsewhere every year, Pyle sings about such issues as global warming, arctic drilling, over-consumption, deforestation, suburban sprawl and government irresponsibility.

Benedictine’s Earth Day celebration continues on Thursday, April 22 with a recycling drive from 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. in the Krasa Quad, an open mic from 1:30-2:30 p.m., a student posted presentation from 2:30-4:15 p.m. in the Krasa Center Fireside Lounge and a panel discussion on water from 4:30-5:45 p.m. in the Krasa Presentation Room.

The Earth Day activities conclude with a showing of the Academy Award®-nominated documentary film “Food, Inc.” and a student-led discussion in the Krasa Presentation Room from 7:00-9:00 p.m.

For more information about Earth Day at Benedictine University, contact Jean-Marie Kauth, Ph.D., assistant professor in Languages and Literature, at (630) 829-6272 or by e-mail at JKauth@ben.edu.

For more information about “Green E – The Environmental Elvis,” visit www.greenelvis.com or e-mail greenelvis2001@yahoo.com.