Dec 14th, 2009 · Over the weekend in Houston, Annise Parker was elected as the city's first openly gay mayor. The race was a run off between two Democratic candidates. Parker began her political career as a gay activist before serving on Houston's City Council. Parker calls it "a historic election" for her community.
Dec 10th, 2009 · The official Christmas tree for Concord, Calif., has people griping that it looks a lot like Charlie Brown's sad little tree. But don't blame the Grinch, blame the budget. The City Council says due to cutbacks, it had to pass on the traditional lush freshly-cut tree. They saved thousands by opting for a spindly brown one already growing in the city plaza. Also conveniently located next to an electrical outlet.
Dec 9th, 2009 · New York City drivers have to wait for relief from the classic parking problem: The meter just ran out, and an officer already is writing you a ticket. The City Council attacked this outrage, voting to give drivers a five-minute grace period. But Mayor Michael Bloomberg vetoed the plan, saying it would cause chaos. Council members may override the veto.
Aug 28th, 2009 · Wage theft has become a large problem in New Orleans, where day laborers are integral to the rebuilding process. As many as 80 percent say they've been ripped off by employers. The City Council president plans to introduce legislation to make wage theft a crime.
Jul 31st, 2009 · The City Council in Rochester, Ind., has approved a plan to allow geese hunting at the Round Barn Golf Club. As many as 1,000 Canadian geese spend the winter there. The Rochester Sentinel reports five off-duty police officers are expected to do the hunting during the off season.
Jul 2nd, 2009 · Col. Hector Henry is one of only three doctors over the age of 70 who have agreed to come out of retirement and serve active duty since Sept. 11, 2001, according to the U.S. Army Reserves Medical Command. The urologist, City Council member and grandfather of three says he promised his wife it would be his last tour.
Jun 7th, 2009 · Earlier this year, the Washington, D.C., City Council passed a measure that would allow the nation's capital to recognize same-sex marriages performed outside of the city. Supporters now hope to see the council pass legislation that would allow same-sex couples to marry inside the district. But opponents vow a pitched fight.
Dec 17th, 2008 · The D.C. City Council has passed emergency legislation that would allow bars and restaurants to serve alcohol around the clock until 5 a.m. in the days leading up to the inauguration. The city's mayor says he'll sign the bill.