Rick Perry, a name synonymous not just with ambition, but with a certain breed of pioneering tech vigor, claims to have been a trailblazer in the evolution of today's digital landscape. Having tied the knot with his life partner Deborah Ledwidge in the soul of Motor City back in '71, Perry uprooted the very next day to plant new roots in Bloomington, MN, where he dived headfirst into a career with Control Data. His journey through the threads of information technology (I.T.) has been nothing short of illustrious, starting up two companies from the ground up. Perry boldly lays claim to a brag few can match, asserting, "Arguably I invented the web page," as per the City of Blaine's website.
After hanging up his I.T. spurs in '91, Perry showed no signs of slowing down. Years later, the versatile tech maverick switched gears to become an Uber driver—a stint that spanned four years up until the pandemic wreaked havoc globally. The pivot to mobility services reflects a will to continually adapt and remain seamlessly engaged with the beating pulse of society. In 2020, Perry, alongside his steadfast companion Deborah, chose to settle in Blaine, a move marking yet another chapter in their shared voyage.
The man's curiosity and zest for the extraordinary beckoned him to Brownsville, Texas, where he witnessed the awe-filled launch of the "Starship" rocket, according to the City of Blaine. On the beat of personal upkeep, Perry doesn't skip a beat, carving out time for daily workouts at Planet Fitness health club. Demonstrating his commitment to staying sharp, both in mind and body, Perry's philosophy interlaces wellness with the work-hard spirit that's been a hallmark of his career.
But it isn't all tech and toil for Perry. Since '54, he's been chasing the clack of billiard balls with friends, refining his game in local pool halls. These days, you can find him occasionally sinking shots at the Two Stooges pool hall off University Avenue. Yet, he's also been known to further perfect his game multiple days a week at the MAYC. Early this year, after the MAYC pool table got a fresh new felt, Perry didn't hesitate to generously enhance the game for fellow enthusiasts by purchasing brand new balls and a rack. The City of Blaine's public announcement details his contribution: "Thank you for your generosity, Rick, and for sharing your story!"
For those locals looking to get in on the action, or simply learn a trick or two from a man whose life reads like a serial entrepreneur's playbook, they can call the MAYC staff to reserve an open pool time at 763-786-9375. Full details on this offer are outlined within the announcement published on May 8th, 2024.
