From Paperboy to Newsroom: A Journey Through Time

In the early 1960s, a young person started their first job in the newspaper world. This was not just any job; it was delivering the Minneapolis Tribune in Watertown, South Dakota. The role involved taking the newspaper to various local businesses and apartments. The Tribune was a significant newspaper in the area, offering a broader perspective than the local daily paper.

Sports Enthusiasts and the Tribune

Sports enthusiasts in Watertown eagerly awaited the Tribune's extensive sports section, especially on Sundays. The section covered the newly established Twins and Vikings teams, as well as the Minnesota Gophers football team, which was a major force in college football at the time. The Gophers' victory over UCLA in the Rose Bowl in 1962 was a memorable event.

Challenges and Rewards

The job had its challenges, such as waking up early to collect the newspapers, which arrived by truck from Minneapolis. The winter months were particularly tough due to the harsh winds. However, the young person and their dog, Jet, were dedicated to their task.

One of the perks of the job was being the first to read the newspaper. The young person would quickly scan the front page and then dive into the sports section, reading columns by Dick Cullum and Sid Hartman. Cullum's column often highlighted the human side of athletes, while Hartman's column focused on Minnesota teams and athletes.

A Special Delivery

Another highlight of the job was delivering the newspaper to a bakery. The sweet aroma of freshly baked bread and rolls filled the air, and the baker would often reward the young person with a jelly roll. This small act of kindness made the job even more enjoyable.

Reflections on a Career

Years later, the young person reflected on their journey in the newspaper industry. They had worked in various newsrooms across the country, from Boonville, Missouri, to Milwaukee, St. Louis, and finally, Minneapolis. The sight of rumbling presses and newspapers being delivered to eager readers was always exciting and humbling.

The End of an Era

Recently, it was announced that the Minnesota Star Tribune would no longer be printed in Minneapolis. Instead, it would be printed in Iowa and transported to Minneapolis. This news was distressing, as it meant the print edition would be filled with old news. However, the young person felt blessed to have spent six decades in the news business, witnessing the evolution of journalism.