Miscellany, Aug. 13, 1945

Hell’s Fire. In Miles City, Mont., the Rev. John B. Fitz paused in the midst of his outdoor sermon, picked up a gun, shot two rattlesnakes that happened by, went on preaching.

Women’s Rights. In Caracas, Venezuela, the Transportation Commission gallantly overrode the objections of bus conductors, formally awarded women a privilege they had been fighting for — the right to stand in busses.

Californiana. In Los Angeles, native daughter Ann Helen Trundle won a divorce from Edward Trundle on the grounds that he called Los Angeles a hick town.

Penman’s Folly. In Boston, Handwriting Expert Elizabeth McCarthy, checking signatures on mayoralty nomination papers, came across her own name — neatly forged.

Passing Fancies. In Manhattan, male shoppers who dared could now ask for ties in seven new shades: Lemon Squash, Strawberry Parfait, Pistachio Freeze, Orange Fizz, Blue Frappe, Mint Ice and Coral Crush.

Bright New World. In Chicago, George Braccio installed fluorescent lighting in his blacksmith shop.

Retainer. In Sacramento, Calif., John O’Day, 76, arrested 73 times since he first hit a bartender with a bucket of whitewash in 1915, persuaded the county supervisors to award him a $50-a-month pension, on the ground that it would be cheaper than supporting him in jail.

Military Objective. In Dunn, N.C., the Dispatch received an ad: “Young soldier with four and a half years of duty would like to meet a young widow with three children. Object: 85 points!”

Triple Talk. In Philadelphia, Police man Charlie Gallagher arrested Joseph Gallagher on a charge of robbing John Gallagher.

Exit Afoot. In Ogden, Utah, City Commissioner William D. Wood rode happily into a rodeo arena to acknowledge his selection as rodeo foreman, was promptly thrown by his horse.

Short Changer. In Harford, N.Y.. a thief stole 13 six-pound chickens from the flock of Mrs. William Voorhees, left 13 four-pounders in their place.

Made-Work. In Rio de Janeiro, Under taker Manoel Pinto and seven ambulance-chasing competitors raced to the home of a new customer, arrived in a dead heat. Awarded the job, happy Pinto promptly dropped dead.