BELLE FOURCHE—A bright yellow baby chick, Peeps, was spotted out on Easter Sunday on the corner of National Street and US 85. The Peeps was waving, jumping and handing out colored plastic Easter eggs while spreading holiday cheer.
In addition to extending joy, the Peeps had a larger message: GO VOTE! When one opened the Easter egg, candy treats along with a message were inside. The message encouraged everyone to get out and vote on April 7. “I am Gino Pesicka running for Ward 2, and I am handing out Easter eggs—just telling people to actually vote! Not for me, not for anyone, just vote! This wasn’t publicized—my wife thought it would be hilarious, and I’m like, I think so too! So that’s why I’m here,” explained Pesicka.
The Belle Fourche City Council Special Election was held on Tuesday, April 7, from 7 a.m. through 7 p.m. at the Belle Fourche Community Hall.
There are open seats in Ward 1, Ward 2, and Ward 3. Running for election in Ward 1 are John Fyffe and Wilma Goehring. For Ward 2, those on the ballot are Faith Kari-Melanson, Aydalou Cazer, Falina Selchert, and Gene Pesicka. Ward 3 has Vern Hintz running unopposed.
Although Pesicka is running, he wasn’t doing the Peeps promotion for himself but rather to remind everyone to vote. “I’m not saying vote for me—although that would be nice—my whole premise has been vote for who you want, just get out and vote! If you want me, I’m all aboard. But if you don’t, please just go out and vote! 11% turnout is terrible!”
Pesicka didn’t readily tell people he met that it was him in the costume. He kept that part quiet. He just wanted to spread smiles. “It’s best nobody does know until after the whole thing, this wasn’t a publicity stunt…I just wanted a little more joy in the community,” he said.
Excited folks pulled over to meet the Peeps and get their pictures taken with him. Pesicka carried the basket full of colorful plastic Easter eggs with him. “If you open up the egg, it just says Ward 1, Ward 2. Please vote April 7, BF Community Hall,” said Pesicka. A few chocolate kisses accompanied his message!
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