An occasional survey of jobs both unusual and extraordinary, and the people who make them happen. The national debate on gay marriage has challenged a number of institutions in 21st century America, from churches to municipal governments, from caterers to…
Local Swedish Icon Actually Italian
Ever since its inception in 1952, the Hjalmar Marklund Annex to the Central Branch of the Municipal Public Library has been a point of pride for the city’s library system, and one of the United States’ leading collections of Swedish-American…
Union Head Angered About Age of Fire Trucks
In most major cities, fire trucks are replaced after about ten years or so of service. This is not the case in our fair city. Ryan Kowalski, Union of Professional Firefighters Local 47 president and city fireman at Ladder Company…
The City’s Runaway Neighborhood Threatens Again
President George W. Bush’s scheduled departure from office next year has many of our citizens preparing for a street fight of sorts. On February 1st, the upscale President Heights neighborhood is scheduled to add a second Bush St. to its…
Nice Work If You Can Get It: Lettering In Success
An occasional survey of jobs both unusual and extraordinary, and the people who make them happen. “What I do,” describes Jeremiah Zjensen, “In a lot of companies, is just a part of the overall picture. Advertising agencies mostly, but also…
Three Stooges Convention Turns Surprisingly Violent
A gathering of slapstick aficionados turned violent Saturday, requiring dozens of city police bearing shields and batons to quell the riot. It was the first conflict in the 13-year history of the Three Stooges Enthusiasts and Impersonators Annual Convention, held…
Snapshots: Before the Great Downtown Fire, July 4th, 1911
July 4 ,1911– Mayor Jonah Woolsey (second from left) addresses a large crowd gathered at Main Avenue and Baylor (now Third) Street, during three hours of speeches in celebration of the holiday. Later that evening, stray sparks from fireworks at…