The Odor Of Cabbage

THE ODOR OF CABBAGE -- Fills City Treasurer's Office Day by Day -- WHILE TAXES ARE PAID -- City treas. Newkirk Thinks His Offices the worst in the State of Michigan

The city offices are receiving a great deal of criticism of late, not from the outside but from those who work there. "The worst offices in the State of Michigan," said City Treasurer Newkirk, as he informed a taxpayer how much he would have to put up. "this smell of cabbage is awful,' continued the Judge. At times it is almost unbearable and it is here day after day, as long as the free lunch lasts," and he closed his nostrils to prevent the odor from suffocating him.

Another employee said: "It is a shame that people have to come here to pay taxes amid such odors as these, No wonder that they feel loath to come inside the office."

the business at the city treasurer's office has been increasing the last few days and the "hold over" accounts will probably be no more this year than in previous years. It is a peculiar and common occurrence to have people come in and say: "What are my taxes?" At first the official collectors did not wish to offend by not knowing what the taxpayer's name was and so diplomatically found out if possible. The incident is now so frequent that this has become impossible and every taxpayer who is not known is promptly asked his name. It seems that many people do not realize that the city is growing and every taxpayer cannot expect that he will be remembered.

Often a man enters with the query: "Where is the chief robber? I hate to pay this, but I suppose I've got to." "Quite right," says the treasurer as he hands the taxpayer a receipt.