This blog is maintained for the sole purpose of allowing the people of Peru and those interested in the cities of the Illinois Valley to express their views.
“It doesn’t take a majority to win, just a tireless minority that will keep starting brush fires in the mind and hearts of their fellow men.” Samuel Adams
Looks like weather will be appropriate for a sleigh riding event and ice skating also. In previous years several aldermen stopped by to view the event but I don't think anyone came to help. Some members of the Recreation Board lent a hand but our elected officials NO. You will likely find Ald. Perez' friends from the Illinois Valley there to offer a hand.
This project started several years ago under the encouragement of Ald. Perez and a few friends and since has grown in size. This year I am hoping some of the aldermen will show up and spend some time and offer help if needed. And I don't mean coming for 10 minutes and watching from a distance. This is a public event for the kids in the town and is free.
I was in on this "fun day" since it's conception and can tell you both the kids and their parents who attended had a blast. It's just a shame that there are only a few who are willing to volunteer their time. There seems to be more who are willing to bad mouth this event because of who started it and therefore refuse to even come and see how much fun it is for the kids.
This is so nice. I saw on Rods aldermans Facebook that they are providing free hot dogs and chocolate? It's nice to see some family activities like this in Peru. I'm to old to sled ride but I may go to watch and get a hot dog.
This is the exact problem we have to put up with. We have too many Mayors, Council people worried about sled rides, parades, flowers and setting up chairs for the city events. Those events will happen. I want elected to focus on tax rates, cost savings, and making our government better. Those campaign events like the above listed and singing Christmas carols at city hall is all some expect in those elected. I didn't vote for someone in office to babysit kids.
Lighten up 10:49. There is no harm in this and it does not cost the city anything. Now, if a certain individual was in charge of it, it would cost $10,000 in overtime, local 150 excavating the snow banks, and catered out food. There would probably be a beer tent also.
I am voting for those alderman and mayor if they take my kids sled riding. We had many days off because of the weather. Would they come to my house and pick my 3 kids up?
Haha 10:49 you must be referencing Alderman Perez since he's the only one doing the above mentioned. I would imagine he does all of that on his own time. I don't know what sort of issue you have with Perez but its obvious you are bitter. So if you see Perez riding a bike in June you will blog another dumb comment that you never elected him to ride a bike? You are silly. We need more like Perez who is willing to take part and lead community events. I would bet you are just bothered of all the positive things he does especially when there's an election around the corner. I've know Rodney for years and he does everything you mentioned regularly not just a month before an election like others do. Keep doing what you are doing Rodney. You're ticking off your opponents because you are doing good things.
9:30 Its a ride down a snow covered hill at a park. You make it sound like you invented Disneyland. Conception? We went sled riding with rubber boots in 1963. You poor souls in Peru make this a event. More radio publicity than helping the homeless. Its strange that your local politicians will make such a big deal about going down a hill. How many volunteers do you need in Peru to watch kids go down a hill? I am sure you shamed some local store to give you the dogs and drink on behalf of Peru residents. You must need all those volunteers to get out and share facebook photos of your elected officials re-writing history.
Can you imagine a town as Peru was at one long ago time, where the city actually barracaded Pulaski from Shooting Park Rd to about about 14th for sleigh riding and no residents complained and the kids had a blast and it was sooo safe. Ask your grandparents about it. And there was always ice skating too. Kids were always out in the snow and cold and schools didn't have snow days. It's kind of funny to hear tv commercials about playing outside for 60 minutes a day.
I didn't hear the city organize the event or authorize the event. We all know this is not a city event. It's one of several events Perez will organize using his elected office to funnel taxpayer money to his campaign. It's just as bad as the Mayor's street repair signs. Perez is a press hog and he has to go.
Lois you hit it right on the nailhead, when I was young they also had Plum street barricaded off from 6th to 4th street and many other ones, ice skating was part of growing up with the rink in Washington Park between the Little League diamond and where the Minor League diamond is. You are also right about snow days, we never heard of them, you went. Again I remember our parents letting us out to play in the snow and telling us be home for supper, in other words your not hanging around the house watching TV. What happened was the new way of thinking that took place starting in the 60's and got worse as time went on. Kids don't know what chores are, parents give them whatever they want to get them off their back, discipline is a time out without restriction, then when the parents want them to go get a job the kids are so under prepared that can't do anything.
My comment is that when the city does not offer ANYTHING for the community, any resident private or elected who has the desire or motivation to organize is welcome in my book. I follow all the local cities in the Valley as to what they are doing as a community. I frequently see that Oglesby is and has in the past not only made the wonderful ice skating rink available to the residents but also offers times when hot chocolate etc. is available to those who are skating. I think that they also have other events scheduled at the rink. That is community and I whole heartedly applaud this effort. I know the Peru Rec Board schedules and organizes parades for Christmas and Halloween and gives candy to the kids. And what else did you say the city does for the community? And I don't mean beer gardens. We set up an ice rink in a local park, end of story. So when one aldermen who also asks the others to participate organizes fun for the kids on one winter day, you complain. You are one sad individual and if you sit on the council, you are even less.
I believe 1:25 and a few others are a bit shaken up so I thought I'd address a few of their concerns. I normally wouldn't feel a need to address frivolous comments but a couple seem depressed over my positive energy so I thought I'd cheer them up by facts instead of their own ass umptions:)
1. City parks are public property; therefore, if I, or you choose to gather friends and family, neighbors etc. to a park to sleigh ride and ice skate then have at it. There's no need to seek approval when the city has opened the park for sledding and ice skating. The city, and public supports this event therefore I will continue bringing families together for a day of fun.
2. There are no taxpayer dollars used except for a couple hours of electricity.
3. I donated hot dogs, hot chocolate and all condiments for this event. I did have someone ask to donate cups they had extra of. (If anyone would like to see my Sam's receipt please contact me and I will be happy to show you:-)
4. Please keep in mind that everything I do is on my time and volunteering is something my wife and I enjoy doing...my volunteerism dates back many years, It's just fortunate that some of our volunteer efforts such as planting flowers has saved the City of Peru nearly 50,000.00 over the past couple years. ( If you would like evidence of that, I will prove those numbers also.
5. I have received great community support for all I do, therefore I will continue doing as I do.
6. You'll need to get use to this because I'm not going anywhere :-) P.s.. Please stop by to see us tomorrow. Get there early and hopefully the press will get your photo too:-)
12:29, k. But maybe we can work out a deal and u can get your driveway plowed for free. Wink wink. You know, at night when people can't see and are sleeping.
A couple nights ago a town is banning sledding. Who saw this on the news. Geeze, what kind of councilman does that town have? This is a nice winter event for family's. Not worth all this crap being said. Thanks to all who are involved with this event. I don't see why any Alderman should feel they have to attend this event. Now, parades are a different story, they should appear. We need honest, intellient, transparent people running our city, not club members.
Everybody is invited to this event. Don't forget not everybody is invited to the cookout July 3rd at Maze Lumber, where tax dollars, also known as Liberty Fire Company donations are used for a family picnic/cookout for fireman and their family's, their children's boyfriends/girlfriends, girlfriends, grandchildren of their girlfriends, extended family members sometimes, etc.....!
Rodney: Even though you do volunteer your time and energy and do answer nasty comments, you owe no one an explanation for your actions. They are honorable and above and beyond the call of duty. What I don't understand is how critical and biased certain members of our community are toward some individuals but not others. Unless you are a part of the inner circle, no matter what one does it is frowned upon. Others can bend the rules, spend tax payer money, and no questions are asked. Hope the kids have a wonderful day!
Anon 2:47, it's stupid remarks like yours that diminish the blogs status as an important tool with our government, you make these remarks without proof of what your insinuating either by trying to be clever or just being an idiot. Show me proof that any employee plows anyone's driveway or keep your mouth shut!!!!
A city employee was caught plowing family members houses about 6 years ago also Super Bleck was caught plowing his and his moms house and i reported to city Hall and was told they would be told not to do that any more or would be disciplined . I received a call from city hall days after I reported and told a memo was given to all employees telling them this will not be tolerated . I was also told to get a picture if I ever saw it again as undisputed proof . I haven't seen any misuse since . I recommend getting a picture next time as proof and taking it to city hall .
Always had a good time sled riding there, nothing new. What I would like to see is an event like the Taste of the Illinois valley return to Peru! Now that would be an accomplishment.
8:37 I was at yesterday's family sled day. It was a huge accomplishment. What makes you think it wasn't. We were there from 2:00 until 4:30 and didn't see the mayor or any other city officials there helping or sledding. I questioned Rodney if any other officials helped. Rodney said he sent out a mass e mail request but not one replied or showed up. My point is if they can't volunteer for something as simple as a day of family sledding serving hot dogs who would you expect to show up and volunteer to serve a taste of Illinois Valley? Let me guess you would expect Rodney and several of his volunteers to do it themselves to? Rodney and those that helped did a fabulous job! Every child and parent had a smile. It gave us all an opportunity to spend good quality time with our children and grand children. The surprising thing was Rodney was able to organize a succesful alcohol free family event. Thank you Rodney Perez. You are simply amazing and my kids love you.
There is not "taste" in the Illinois Valley. I find it hilarious when the NT runs their annual fluff piece allowing people to vote for their favorite local restaurant. Now... I'm not making this up - it is true ... Taco Bell gets voted as the "best Mexican Restaurant." Then there is the faction that thinks going to the Olive Garden is a cultural experience.
@11:20 AM Do you have any idea how much business the NT generates for itself when running their annual "fluff Piece" and the backups pieces over the year thanking each voters. I consider the annual contest very good business by the NT and a huge money maker. I've been to Itatly and I've been to Olive Garden and have not as yet met anyone of the faction that thinks that going to Olive Garden is a cultural experience. Now would you believe this one Peru has a Mexican Aldermen who throws a annual family snow day in the East End giving out free hot dogs and chocolate and no other city official will reach out to supply a helping hand. Thank you, Rodney Perez and all others involved for a great day and a chance for all to bond. Next year make it bigger and again, Thank You. In Italy I learned that Rome was not built in a day.
2:10, boy oh boy... my comment had nothing to do with the winter fun day. I support that 100%. I was replying to someone that commented on the "Taste of the Illinois Valley." It was partially in jest, but you have to admit that when Taco Bell is voted #1 Mexican restaurant it says something about us as a community - especially when there are several very good Mexican restaurants in our area. To boot - there are many people around here that believe the Olive Garden opening a place here signaled that we have finally come of age as a community. But, in all actuality the Olive Garden is about as authentic Italian as Taco Bell is authentic Mexican. So in closing - my comment was basically a jab at us - the people that live in the Illinois Valley. People that are content with tavern fried chicken (my favorite by the way) and "Ravioli" that are actually Tortellini.
I have lived my whole life in Peru and I am so exhumed of the streets here. They are horrible-what is going on here? The streets in the past in this city were always cleared of snow . Are there not enough employees anymore? Where are the new supervisors don't they see what terrible shape they are in? Don't we as taxpayers deserve better. Does anyone else feel the same as I do about this???
Yes 8:31 Dimmick and rural roads are in better shape than ours. I don't blame city employees It must be who is making their schedules. I agree 100% with you.
Lets look at this snow removal thing just a little more pragmatically. On side streets, is it really necessary to scrape the pavement clean? I don't think so. These streets are not intended for travel above 25 mph. Now I can see at certain areas - like a hill for instance - where safety dictates aggressive plowing. But for the most part - an inch or two of snow on the side street should not cause any problems... If you know how to drive. I can't help but add some thoughts concerning the driving habits of our local population. Slow down people! Stop at the stop signs - all of them, not just the ones you remember because you are to busy texting instead of watching for signs. And then there is the famous Peru Sneak... the act of coasting through a stop sign when the guy in front of you takes his turn. There are no "two fers" People!
I don't know anything about their schedules but I can tell you that in some neighborhoods I have witnessed plow following plow over and over again on the same street. Is this normal.
To 8:31 PM, I am so sorry to hear your body has been "exhumed" off the streets in Peru. Tha sounds like it would really hurt. Hope you feel better soon. Not to change the subject, but I yhink the Super Chiefs are playing with fire and ice by holding off on street clearing in order to limit Over-Time for city workers. One serious or fatal accident and all the "Back-Slapping" the Super Chiefs are getting from the phony mayor and aldermen will switch to some seriously puckered-up sphincters.
Thank you Alderman Perez! We had a wonderful time on Saturday. The kids loved the hot coco and hot dogs too. They slept very good and went to bed early. Ha Please send thank you's to all your helpers. I did notice no one else from the city was there which was a shame as it was such a wonderful day and everyone had so much fun. You should run for mayor.
8:55 mike perry from chamlins bought a house on the corner of 14th st & west st. a few months ago i saw the city cutting down a tree that was on his property - did we pay for this?
9:15- your comment is a classic example of why torte reform is necessary. If a person gets in an accident because of ice and snow on the road it is their own dang fault. I swear this litigation prone attitude people have needs to change, otherwise we are doomed as a society.
9:18 Your standards are quite high. Mickey Mouse has delighted many for many years and he typically gets a few votes for President. Do you need city officials to watch your kids have fun sled riding? I had a birthday party for a relative this weekend in the nursing home. I didn't expect my local city official to sing happy birthday for uncle Lou.
9:18 Anon City officials only show up to help during concerts for a cause. I noticed they did attend the Christmas Parade but all they did was walk in the parade. They never even bothered to help hand out bags of candy and I did not see the mayor present at the parade either. I did not even see Perez walking in the parade with the others but did see him driving a fire truck with children. Being a public servant is more than just attending meetings. I expect public servants to be involved in our community and doing things outside of city hall. Being a true public servant is someone that takes pride in the community and brings the community together. We reside in Sycamore Lakes and we have no idea who are represenitives are. If I need anything I'm either calling Rodney Perez or Doug Bernabei.
A couple of years ago the city decided to sell the ESDA building on Water Street. The sale was performed under the "Quick & Done Deal" by City of Peru Express for $16,000 before many could inquire. Alderman Ferrari was elated to discuss the sale and that the city would soon be gaining sales tax from a Specialty Hamburger Restaurant on Water Street. How much has the city obtained in taxes from this business in the time from when it was sold?
10:15, not sure what torte is... possibly you want tortellini reform? How did we ever start calling tortellini ravioli????
Ha Ha... just kidding, I understand despite the spelling. Yes - as far as I'm concerned all the race car drivers around here deserve the trouble they bring on themselves. If you cause an accident due to slippery roads you have no one to blame but yourself.
Because it shows that you do have some community spirit and your election to that position means that you will not only choose to come to council, committee meetings and closed session committee of the whole meetings but that you will show community caring by coming together when people are gathering for a public event to which the organizer invited each and everyoneof them personally to come . Why is it almost all surrounding communities knows how this works, but Peru ????. I don't understand because it shows extremely bad judgement.
The burger joint never got off the ground. Did they actually pay for the building yet? I'm not exactly sure they did. Anyways.... Peru will end up with that building again, you can bet on it.
I saw pothoff, ferrari, bartley at the pearl harbor ceremony-parade at the boat club in peru. However, did not see them enjoying a free lunch afterwards, they left I was told. Wasn't the Christmas parade and pearl harbor ceremony approximately the same time? I don't feel that a family fun day has any relevance with whether or not an alderman shows or not would determine the effectiveness of being a good alderman. A large percentage of them should resign in my opinion.
Its a good day for Illinois! We have a new governor! I know the legislature is still chockablock full of Dems - but Gov. Rauner controls the executive department and, to borrow a phrase, "he has a pen and a phone."
Let's all be honest here. When it comes to the "family fun day" no body shows up to help because it's organized by aldermen Perez and he doesn't "follow the crowd". Now the "xmas tree expense (over $3000) and project" at city hall started by alderman Sapienza belongs under a different heading. He "follows the crowd" and therefore the mayor and council support him. I understand that part of the process we have established here in Peru but what I don't understand is who is the ring leader and who established the rules and why we don't have independent thinkers on our council. Let's forget who starts these family events and remember who they are for - the children of Peru (our future).
The fun day is generally frowned upon by those in charge of Peru because it is largely accomplished through volunteers. Therefor no money exchanges hands - so Peru officials don't have anything to gain.
11:11 - you don't need to worry about Concerts for a Cause - or should I say "Concerts for a Profit" anymore. According to face book - the airport is no longer suitable because its being used as... gasp .... an airport. Yes - we are finally rid of these annual headaches. Maybe the Pizza vendor can trick some other town into footing the bill.
12:52 anon. I too was at the Pearl Harbor Parade and watched the full ceremony at the boat club. After the ceremony I took my boys who were part of the ceremony through Boy Scouts to the parade then to the fire department as they handed out candy. So No, it wasn't at the same time. We even made it to the Christmas tree lighting at city hall. I don't recall seeing them there either. I did see Perez and the lady Alderwoman there. I can't speak for anyone else on here I'm just saying it makes a difference to me which public servants are out doing for our community. Alderman Perez is the only one I see on a regular basis doing for Peru.
1:29 Maybe Rodney should learn from that and start getting permission of when to speak and figure out who to start hanging with. He really upset mayor Harl and his boys by going to the FBI and not shoving that under the rug like I heard Alderman Mike Sapienza told him they should do. I do know for a fact and many of us see it, that this council doesn't play by the rules and can't have a tattle tale or eagle eye watching over them. That is why mayor Harl got another yes man to run against Perez. I did hear from the mayors close affiliate that this person they found to run against Perez was their only chance because all others they tried to convince didn't think Perez is beatable. And I agree. A wise man once told me to watch who's toes you step on today because they may be the same ones you'll have to kiss tomorrow.
Anon 12:27 PM Why is it that from the day the ESDA Buildins was supposedly sold people were claiming that the city would own it again? Since it is Ald. Ferrari who was bragging about the sale and the great amount of money the city was going to get in taxes doesn't he have a obligation to account for what actually transpires in the city rather than what he thought was going to happen. After all we are talking about the peoples money, people who he is accountable to.
@12:53 Yes! This topic is that big a deal. Illinois is last in about everything and the only way for it to improve is to change starting at the top, which would be a good idea for Peru also.
1:29 Your values are much different than most. A lot of hoppolla about a simple event that many would be doing anyway without the publicity. The children of Peru and our future relies upon kids going down a hill with Alderman giving out hotdogs? I don't expect city hall to raise my kids and there are a lot of people who spent years in Little League, Girls softball, park boards, schools, and many other events. The future of your kids relies on how you educate them, discipline them, encourage them, and stress the importance of a strong family unit, and a strong work ethic. I am happy to give you that advice and hope that you won't expect that next ride down a snow covered hill as nothing more than a sled ride.
1:29 Would you agree too that every family will be decorating and lighting up their own 45.00 trees therefore publicizing a Christmas tree lighting and taxpayers spending over 2,000.00 on a tree (that only a select few see) excluding the costs of electricity is foolish? I support Rod publicizing an invitation of hundreds of families to go sledding and enjoy hot dogs and whatever else he served with it. I would think Rod had more families at the park than would ever fit in city hall to see a tree. What was the total cost to the city for the sled day? Perhaps no charge to the tax payers? Just curious why you aren't whining about the Christmas Tree event? Oh wait! I think we all have the answer to that.
I think the attendance at the winter fun day shows the people like these events because it was so well attended. Rodney has put these events together for the past couple years and they get more and more people each time. It's events like these that bring a community together. The other aldermen don't help because they're jealous of Rodney's popularity.
Now it's a violation to have a fun day in the park, seriously the city has gone off the deep end. Vote out all Waldorf he supported this to go to police chief...
64 comments:
Looks like weather will be appropriate for a sleigh riding event and ice skating also. In previous years several aldermen stopped by to view the event but I don't think anyone came to help. Some members of the Recreation Board lent a hand but our elected officials NO. You will likely find Ald. Perez' friends from the Illinois Valley there to offer a hand.
This project started several years ago under the encouragement of Ald. Perez and a few friends and since has grown in size.
This year I am hoping some of the aldermen will show up and spend some time and offer help if needed. And I don't mean coming for 10 minutes and watching from a distance. This is a public event for the kids in the town and is free.
It is an election year. So I suppose there will be some candidates there.
I was in on this "fun day" since it's conception and can tell you both the kids and their parents who attended had a blast. It's just a shame that there are only a few who are willing to volunteer their time. There seems to be more who are willing to bad mouth this event because of who started it and therefore refuse to even come and see how much fun it is for the kids.
This is so nice. I saw on Rods aldermans Facebook that they are providing free hot dogs and chocolate? It's nice to see some family activities like this in Peru. I'm to old to sled ride but I may go to watch and get a hot dog.
This is the exact problem we have to put up with. We have too many Mayors, Council people worried about sled rides, parades, flowers and setting up chairs for the city events. Those events will happen. I want elected to focus on tax rates, cost savings, and making our government better. Those campaign events like the above listed and singing Christmas carols at city hall is all some expect in those elected. I didn't vote for someone in office to babysit kids.
Lighten up 10:49. There is no harm in this and it does not cost the city anything.
Now, if a certain individual was in charge of it, it would cost $10,000 in overtime, local 150 excavating the snow banks, and catered out food. There would probably be a beer tent also.
I am voting for those alderman and mayor if they take my kids sled riding. We had many days off because of the weather. Would they come to my house and pick my 3 kids up?
Haha 10:49 you must be referencing Alderman Perez since he's the only one doing the above mentioned. I would imagine he does all of that on his own time. I don't know what sort of issue you have with Perez but its obvious you are bitter. So if you see Perez riding a bike in June you will blog another dumb comment that you never elected him to ride a bike? You are silly.
We need more like Perez who is willing to take part and lead community events. I would bet you are just bothered of all the positive things he does especially when there's an election around the corner. I've know Rodney for years and he does everything you mentioned regularly not just a month before an election like others do.
Keep doing what you are doing Rodney. You're ticking off your opponents because you are doing good things.
9:30 Its a ride down a snow covered hill at a park. You make it sound like you invented Disneyland. Conception? We went sled riding with rubber boots in 1963. You poor souls in Peru make this a event. More radio publicity than helping the homeless. Its strange that your local politicians will make such a big deal about going down a hill. How many volunteers do you need in Peru to watch kids go down a hill? I am sure you shamed some local store to give you the dogs and drink on behalf of Peru residents. You must need all those volunteers to get out and share facebook photos of your elected officials re-writing history.
Can you imagine a town as Peru was at one long ago time, where the city actually barracaded Pulaski from Shooting Park Rd to about about 14th for sleigh riding and no residents complained and the kids had a blast and it was sooo safe. Ask your grandparents about it. And there was always ice skating too. Kids were always out in the snow and cold and schools didn't have snow days. It's kind of funny to hear tv commercials about playing outside for 60 minutes a day.
I didn't hear the city organize the event or authorize the event. We all know this is not a city event. It's one of several events Perez will organize using his elected office to funnel taxpayer money to his campaign. It's just as bad as the Mayor's street repair signs. Perez is a press hog and he has to go.
Lois you hit it right on the nailhead, when I was young they also had Plum street barricaded off from 6th to 4th street and many other ones, ice skating was part of growing up with the rink in Washington Park between the Little League diamond and where the Minor League diamond is. You are also right about snow days, we never heard of them, you went. Again I remember our parents letting us out to play in the snow and telling us be home for supper, in other words your not hanging around the house watching TV. What happened was the new way of thinking that took place starting in the 60's and got worse as time went on. Kids don't know what chores are, parents give them whatever they want to get them off their back, discipline is a time out without restriction, then when the parents want them to go get a job the kids are so under prepared that can't do anything.
1:25 PM
My comment is that when the city does not offer ANYTHING for the community, any resident private or elected who has the desire or motivation to organize is welcome in my book. I follow all the local cities in the Valley as to what they are doing as a community. I frequently see that Oglesby is and has in the past not only made the wonderful ice skating rink available to the residents but also offers times when hot chocolate etc. is available to those who are skating. I think that they also have other events scheduled at the rink. That is community and I whole heartedly applaud this effort.
I know the Peru Rec Board schedules and organizes parades for Christmas and Halloween and gives candy to the kids. And what else did you say the city does for the community? And I don't mean beer gardens. We set up an ice rink in a local park, end of story.
So when one aldermen who also asks the others to participate organizes fun for the kids on one winter day, you complain. You are one sad individual and if you sit on the council, you are even less.
To: Lois
From:Alderman Perez
I believe 1:25 and a few others are a bit shaken up so I thought I'd address a few of their concerns. I normally wouldn't feel a need to address frivolous comments but a couple seem depressed over my positive energy so I thought I'd cheer them up by facts instead of their own ass umptions:)
1. City parks are public property; therefore, if I, or you choose to gather friends and family, neighbors etc. to a park to sleigh ride and ice skate then have at it. There's no need to seek approval when the city has opened the park for sledding and ice skating.
The city, and public supports this event therefore I will continue bringing families together for a day of fun.
2. There are no taxpayer dollars used except for a couple hours of electricity.
3. I donated hot dogs, hot chocolate and all condiments for this event. I did have someone ask to donate cups they had extra of. (If anyone would like to see my Sam's receipt please contact me and I will be happy to show you:-)
4. Please keep in mind that everything I do is on my time and volunteering is something my wife and I enjoy doing...my volunteerism dates back many years,
It's just fortunate that some of our volunteer efforts such as planting flowers has saved the City of Peru nearly 50,000.00 over the past couple years. ( If you would like evidence of that, I will prove those numbers also.
5. I have received great community support for all I do, therefore I will continue doing as I do.
6. You'll need to get use to this because I'm not going anywhere :-)
P.s.. Please stop by to see us tomorrow. Get there early and hopefully the press will get your photo too:-)
Thank you!
Alderman Rodney Perez
815-245-7566
12:29, k. But maybe we can work out a deal and u can get your driveway plowed for free. Wink wink. You know, at night when people can't see and are sleeping.
A couple nights ago a town is banning sledding. Who saw this on the news. Geeze, what kind of councilman does that town have? This is a nice winter event for family's. Not worth all this crap being said. Thanks to all who are involved with this event. I don't see why any Alderman should feel they have to attend this event. Now, parades are a different story, they should appear. We need honest, intellient, transparent people running our city, not club members.
Everybody is invited to this event. Don't forget not everybody is invited to the cookout July 3rd at Maze Lumber, where tax dollars, also known as Liberty Fire Company donations are used for a family picnic/cookout for fireman and their family's, their children's boyfriends/girlfriends, girlfriends, grandchildren of their girlfriends, extended family members sometimes, etc.....!
Rodney: Even though you do volunteer your time and energy and do answer nasty comments, you owe no one an explanation for your actions. They are honorable and above and beyond the call of duty. What I don't understand is how critical and biased certain members of our community are toward some individuals but not others. Unless you are a part of the inner circle, no matter what one does it is frowned upon. Others can bend the rules, spend tax payer money, and no questions are asked. Hope the kids have a wonderful day!
Anon 2:47, it's stupid remarks like yours that diminish the blogs status as an important tool with our government, you make these remarks without proof of what your insinuating either by trying to be clever or just being an idiot. Show me proof that any employee plows anyone's driveway or keep your mouth shut!!!!
I think that's where a family member of his lives. Was he plowing in a Peru city truck?
1:32 Yes he was.
A city employee was caught plowing family members houses about 6 years ago also Super Bleck was caught plowing his and his moms house and i reported to city Hall and was told they would be told not to do that any more or would be disciplined . I received a call from city hall days after I reported and told a memo was given to all employees telling them this will not be tolerated . I was also told to get a picture if I ever saw it again as undisputed proof . I haven't seen any misuse since . I recommend getting a picture next time as proof and taking it to city hall .
Was it city trucks or township trucks many years ago plowing fireman's driveways?
Always had a good time sled riding there, nothing new. What I would like to see is an event like the Taste of the Illinois valley return to Peru! Now that would be an accomplishment.
8:37 I was at yesterday's family sled day. It was a huge accomplishment. What makes you think it wasn't. We were there from 2:00 until 4:30 and didn't see the mayor or any other city officials there helping or sledding.
I questioned Rodney if any other officials helped. Rodney said he sent out a mass e mail request but not one replied or showed up. My point is if they can't volunteer for something as simple as a day of family sledding serving hot dogs who would you expect to show up and volunteer to serve a taste of Illinois Valley? Let me guess you would expect Rodney and several of his volunteers to do it themselves to?
Rodney and those that helped did a fabulous job! Every child and parent had a smile. It gave us all an opportunity to spend good quality time with our children and grand children. The surprising thing was Rodney was able to organize a succesful alcohol free family event. Thank you Rodney Perez. You are simply amazing and my kids love you.
There is not "taste" in the Illinois Valley. I find it hilarious when the NT runs their annual fluff piece allowing people to vote for their favorite local restaurant. Now... I'm not making this up - it is true ... Taco Bell gets voted as the "best Mexican Restaurant."
Then there is the faction that thinks going to the Olive Garden is a cultural experience.
@11:20 AM Do you have any idea how much business the NT generates for itself when running their annual "fluff Piece" and the backups pieces over the year thanking each voters.
I consider the annual contest very good business by the NT and a huge money maker.
I've been to Itatly and I've been to Olive Garden and have not as yet met anyone of the faction that thinks that going to Olive Garden is a cultural experience. Now would you believe this one Peru has a Mexican Aldermen who throws a annual family snow day in the East End giving out free hot dogs and chocolate and no other city official will reach out to supply a helping hand.
Thank you, Rodney Perez and all others involved for a great day and a chance for all to bond. Next year make it bigger and again, Thank You. In Italy I learned that Rome was not built in a day.
2:10, boy oh boy... my comment had nothing to do with the winter fun day. I support that 100%. I was replying to someone that commented on the "Taste of the Illinois Valley." It was partially in jest, but you have to admit that when Taco Bell is voted #1 Mexican restaurant it says something about us as a community - especially when there are several very good Mexican restaurants in our area. To boot - there are many people around here that believe the Olive Garden opening a place here signaled that we have finally come of age as a community. But, in all actuality the Olive Garden is about as authentic Italian as Taco Bell is authentic Mexican.
So in closing - my comment was basically a jab at us - the people that live in the Illinois Valley. People that are content with tavern fried chicken (my favorite by the way) and "Ravioli" that are actually Tortellini.
@4:52 PM Your taking it all way too serious, chill out.
Is a great idea for family fun day these younger kids in peru really lack community events
I have lived my whole life in Peru and I am so exhumed of the streets here. They are horrible-what is going on here? The streets in the past in this city were always cleared of snow . Are there not enough employees anymore? Where are the new supervisors don't they see what terrible shape they are in? Don't we as taxpayers deserve better. Does anyone else feel the same as I do about this???
Yes 8:31 Dimmick and rural roads are in better shape than ours. I don't blame city employees It must be who is making their schedules. I agree 100% with you.
snow plowing needs to be outsourced.
8:31, would experienced and qualified supervisors help solve this problem?
Lets look at this snow removal thing just a little more pragmatically. On side streets, is it really necessary to scrape the pavement clean? I don't think so. These streets are not intended for travel above 25 mph. Now I can see at certain areas - like a hill for instance - where safety dictates aggressive plowing. But for the most part - an inch or two of snow on the side street should not cause any problems... If you know how to drive. I can't help but add some thoughts concerning the driving habits of our local population. Slow down people! Stop at the stop signs - all of them, not just the ones you remember because you are to busy texting instead of watching for signs. And then there is the famous Peru Sneak... the act of coasting through a stop sign when the guy in front of you takes his turn. There are no "two fers" People!
I don't know anything about their schedules but I can tell you that in some neighborhoods I have witnessed plow following plow over and over again on the same street. Is this normal.
To 8:31 PM, I am so sorry to hear your body has been "exhumed" off the streets in Peru. Tha sounds like it would really hurt. Hope you feel better soon. Not to change the subject, but I yhink the Super Chiefs are playing with fire and ice by holding off on street clearing in order to limit Over-Time for city workers. One serious or fatal accident and all the "Back-Slapping" the Super Chiefs are getting from the phony mayor and aldermen will switch to some seriously puckered-up sphincters.
Thank you Alderman Perez! We had a wonderful time on Saturday. The kids loved the hot coco and hot dogs too. They slept very good and went to bed early. Ha
Please send thank you's to all your helpers. I did notice no one else from the city was there which was a shame as it was such a wonderful day and everyone had so much fun.
You should run for mayor.
8:55
mike perry from chamlins bought a house on the corner of 14th st & west st. a few months ago i saw the city cutting down a tree that was on his property - did we pay for this?
9:15- your comment is a classic example of why torte reform is necessary. If a person gets in an accident because of ice and snow on the road it is their own dang fault.
I swear this litigation prone attitude people have needs to change, otherwise we are doomed as a society.
9:18 Your standards are quite high. Mickey Mouse has delighted many for many years and he typically gets a few votes for President. Do you need city officials to watch your kids have fun sled riding? I had a birthday party for a relative this weekend in the nursing home. I didn't expect my local city official to sing happy birthday for uncle Lou.
Its obvious self-serving re-election publicity.
What do you call a thousand lawyers at the bottom of the river?
A good start.
9:18 Anon
City officials only show up to help during concerts for a cause. I noticed they did attend the Christmas Parade but all they did was walk in the parade. They never even bothered to help hand out bags of candy and I did not see the mayor present at the parade either. I did not even see Perez walking in the parade with the others but did see him driving a fire truck with children. Being a public servant is more than just attending meetings. I expect public servants to be involved in our community and doing things outside of city hall. Being a true public servant is someone that takes pride in the community and brings the community together. We reside in Sycamore Lakes and we have no idea who are represenitives are. If I need anything I'm either calling Rodney Perez or Doug Bernabei.
A couple of years ago the city decided to sell the ESDA building on Water Street. The sale was performed under the "Quick & Done Deal" by City of Peru Express for $16,000 before many could inquire. Alderman Ferrari was elated to discuss the sale and that the city would soon be gaining sales tax from a Specialty Hamburger Restaurant on Water Street. How much has the city obtained in taxes from this business in the time from when it was sold?
10:15, not sure what torte is... possibly you want tortellini reform? How did we ever start calling tortellini ravioli????
Ha Ha... just kidding, I understand despite the spelling. Yes - as far as I'm concerned all the race car drivers around here deserve the trouble they bring on themselves. If you cause an accident due to slippery roads you have no one to blame but yourself.
10:35 AM
Because it shows that you do have some community spirit and your election to that position means that you will not only choose to come to council, committee meetings and closed session committee of the whole meetings but that you will show community caring by coming together when people are gathering for a public event to which the organizer invited each and everyoneof them personally to come . Why is it almost all surrounding communities knows how this works, but Peru ????. I don't understand because it shows extremely bad judgement.
The burger joint never got off the ground. Did they actually pay for the building yet? I'm not exactly sure they did. Anyways.... Peru will end up with that building again, you can bet on it.
How many consider this sled ride a public event because this publicity prone public official declared this a public holiday?
My Little league team played in a tournament last summer. Would I expect all to come and watch?
I saw pothoff, ferrari, bartley at the pearl harbor ceremony-parade at the boat club in peru. However, did not see them enjoying a free lunch afterwards, they left I was told. Wasn't the Christmas parade and pearl harbor ceremony approximately the same time? I don't feel that a family fun day has any relevance with whether or not an alderman shows or not would determine the effectiveness of being a good alderman. A large percentage of them should resign in my opinion.
Its a good day for Illinois! We have a new governor! I know the legislature is still chockablock full of Dems - but Gov. Rauner controls the executive department and, to borrow a phrase, "he has a pen and a phone."
Such to do about nothing. Is this topic really that big of a deal?
Let's all be honest here. When it comes to the "family fun day" no body shows up to help because it's organized by aldermen Perez and he doesn't "follow the crowd". Now the "xmas tree expense (over $3000) and project" at city hall started by alderman Sapienza belongs under a different heading. He "follows the crowd" and therefore the mayor and council support him. I understand that part of the process we have established here in Peru but what I don't understand is who is the ring leader and who established the rules and why we don't have independent thinkers on our council. Let's forget who starts these family
events and remember who they are for - the children of Peru (our future).
The fun day is generally frowned upon by those in charge of Peru because it is largely accomplished through volunteers. Therefor no money exchanges hands - so Peru officials don't have anything to gain.
11:11 - you don't need to worry about Concerts for a Cause - or should I say "Concerts for a Profit" anymore. According to face book - the airport is no longer suitable because its being used as... gasp .... an airport.
Yes - we are finally rid of these annual headaches. Maybe the Pizza vendor can trick some other town into footing the bill.
12:52 anon. I too was at the Pearl Harbor Parade and watched the full ceremony at the boat club. After the ceremony I took my boys who were part of the ceremony through Boy Scouts to the parade then to the fire department as they handed out candy. So No, it wasn't at the same time. We even made it to the Christmas tree lighting at city hall. I don't recall seeing them there either. I did see Perez and the lady Alderwoman there. I can't speak for anyone else on here I'm just saying it makes a difference to me which public servants are out doing for our community. Alderman Perez is the only one I see on a regular basis doing for Peru.
1:29, please don't invoke the "its for the children" clause. Doing so usually costs us a lot of money, and that was not the case with this event.
How about just saying "its just for fun" and "it doesn't cost anything."
1:29
Maybe Rodney should learn from that and start getting permission of when to speak and figure out who to start hanging with. He really upset mayor Harl and his boys by going to the FBI and not shoving that under the rug like I heard Alderman Mike Sapienza told him they should do.
I do know for a fact and many of us see it, that this council doesn't play by the rules and can't have a tattle tale or eagle eye watching over them. That is why mayor Harl got another yes man to run against Perez. I did hear from the mayors close affiliate that this person they found to run against Perez was their only chance because all others they tried to convince didn't think Perez is beatable. And I agree. A wise man once told me to watch who's toes you step on today because they may be the same ones you'll have to kiss tomorrow.
Anon 12:27 PM Why is it that from the day the ESDA Buildins was supposedly sold people were claiming that the city would own it again? Since it is Ald. Ferrari who was bragging about the sale and the great amount of money the city was going to get in taxes doesn't he have a obligation to account for what actually transpires in the city rather than what he thought was going to happen. After all we are talking about the peoples money, people who he is accountable to.
@12:53 Yes! This topic is that big a deal. Illinois is last in about everything and the only way for it to improve is to change starting at the top, which would be a good idea for Peru also.
1:29 Your values are much different than most. A lot of hoppolla about a simple event that many would be doing anyway without the publicity. The children of Peru and our future relies upon kids going down a hill with Alderman giving out hotdogs? I don't expect city hall to raise my kids and there are a lot of people who spent years in Little League, Girls softball, park boards, schools, and many other events. The future of your kids relies on how you educate them, discipline them, encourage them, and stress the importance of a strong family unit, and a strong work ethic. I am happy to give you that advice and hope that you won't expect that next ride down a snow covered hill as nothing more than a sled ride.
1:29 Would you agree too that every family will be decorating and lighting up their own 45.00 trees therefore publicizing a Christmas tree lighting and taxpayers spending over 2,000.00 on a tree (that only a select few see) excluding the costs of electricity is foolish? I support Rod publicizing an invitation of hundreds of families to go sledding and enjoy hot dogs and whatever else he served with it. I would think Rod had more families at the park than would ever fit in city hall to see a tree. What was the total cost to the city for the sled day? Perhaps no charge to the tax payers? Just curious why you aren't whining about the Christmas Tree event? Oh wait! I think we all have the answer to that.
I think the attendance at the winter fun day shows the people like these events because it was so well attended. Rodney has put these events together for the past couple years and they get more and more people each time. It's events like these that bring a community together. The other aldermen don't help because they're jealous of Rodney's popularity.
Now it's a violation to have a fun day in the park, seriously the city has gone off the deep end. Vote out all Waldorf he supported this to go to police chief...
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