Archive for May, 2008

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Spring’s arrival in the Peoria area is marked in many ways: the arrival of robins, the opening of Emo’s, the planting of palm trees at O’Brien’s field, annnnnnd the annual Grand Tour of West Bluff Homes. This year’s tour will be 25th anniversary of this annual event. It will be held on Sunday, May...
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Social service agencies are identified by their address and name prominently displayed in front of their building. Such identification lets curious on-lookers or people needing help know they are at the right place. The name, however detailed or descriptive, cannot do justice to the numerous services provided by that agency. Without the...
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ROYCE IS BACK! After a brief bout with his health, my radio co-host, comedian and good friend Royce Elliott, is once again bringing smiles and laughter to those who participate and listen to “Breakfast with Royce and Roger” on 1350 WOAM. Everyone knows how funny and witty Royce is and he was sorely missed...
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To many, May means Mayday and May flowers – violets in baskets left at doorsteps where bells are rung and visitors flee, laughing. May means Mother’s Day, too, of course, but more, too. Personally, May is when my son was born – 21 years ago this month. And it’s when my own youthful innocence died...
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The canvas was timeworn, and tattered; the wood… worn, brittle, and battered. But one thing time could not tarnish was an enduring beauty, grace, and symmetry. This weathered wooden canoe was a relic; a special gift from a special friend (and paddling partner) who is now in his 80’s. After hauling it back to Peoria...
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According to an article that was carried by the Associated Press, Moody’s Investors Services doesn’t think much of the future of GateHouse Media stock. The agency cut GateHouse’s corporate family rating to “B2” from “B1.” Moody’s also “reduced its probability of default rating one notch” (whatever that means) to “B3” from...
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As I was compiling this particular issue of the Community Word, my inner self kept telling me to “just do it.” And, since none of my readers chose to send in editorial content, I decided this was indeed the right time to do it. It was, after all, the month of May and May...
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Mom drifted off to sleep long before bedtime most weeknights. As a child I remember how she got up early every day, dressed up real nice and went to work. My brother and I got home before she did, and when she arrived she wasn’t up for much conversation. One day Mom told me she...
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One of the many blessings attributed to a long life is the opportunity to gain valuable perspectives on youthful dreams. What once seemed like an awesome idea dims and dulls through the years. Sometimes once coveted goals become faint memories. While I’ve not lived nearly as long as I...
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