Race On To Save Lou Taubert Neon Sign, Last Remnant Of Casper’s “Little Las Vegas”
The Lou Taubert sign really stands out at night when its neon is in its full glory. Visit Casper
From Cowboy State Daily: The neon nirvana that was once Center Street in downtown Casper, Wyoming, earned it the nickname of “Little Las Vegas.” The bright neon used to light up the fronts of such iconic businesses as The Rialto, Townsend, America Theater, Lou Taubert Ranch Outfitters and the Wonder Bar.
Slowly over the decades, these neon gems were taken down and replaced by flat facing signs until now only one reminder of Casper’s “Little Las Vegas” glory remains — the huge, handmade Lou Taubert sign that went up in 1964.
Louis Taubert Jr. was just 10 years old when his dad approved a unique design for a neon sign for their world-famous Western store. His son was especially enthralled by the flashing neon rope that circled the top and looped down to the bottom of the sign.
Locals say goodbye to historic Sunbeam Bread sign
The bread sign sat atop of the building for nearly 70 years.
From WFFT: FORT WAYNE, Ind — Fort Wayne said goodbye to a piece of history: the iconic Sunbeam Bread sign on top of Aunt Millie’s Bakeries downtown is no longer there.
This was not just a billboard; it was a cherished Summit City landmark for many locals.
Lee Bender grew up in Summit City, he woke up early Wednesday morning to see the sign one last time.
“It was just always on and always in the background, this was our playground for 10 or 15 years,” Bender said.
Last chance? OKC officials approve plan to repurpose historic Gold Dome into concert venue
The Oklahoma City Council approved to make $3 million available in tax increment financing (TIF) funds through a loan to go toward fixing up the Gold Dome. BRYAN TERRY/THE OKLAHOMAN
From The Oklahoman: An Oklahoma City Council majority voted Tuesday to approve $3 million in TIF district funds to go toward repurposing the iconic Gold Dome into a concert venue in what many believe could be the last chance to save the historic building from demolition.
Councilmembers approved 7-1 to make $3 million available in tax increment financing (TIF) funds through a loan to Kismet Koncerts, a live entertainment company based in Tulsa. Mike Brown, president of Kismet Koncerts, has been leading the charge to fix up the well-known Oklahoma City landmark, which has been vacant for the past dozen years and has already been threatened with demolition twice.
Last Look at the Heller’s Bakery Mural – Yes, Density is Good. But Farewell to an Iconic Mount Pleasant Landmark
From popville.com: Heller’s Bakery closed after 86 years back in 2015. The space is now home to
Elle, which opened in 2018.
Back in May 2022 we reported that a 4-story, 14-unit apartment building is coming to the old laundromat in Mount Pleasant.
Thanks to Terry for sending the update of the building starting to rise:
“The iconic Heller’s sign soon to be hidden ouch!”
I took a bunch of photos of few weeks ago for posterity too.
Diners look back as Old Canteen serves its final meals
The sign for Joe Marzilli’s Old Canteen in Providence (WJAR)
From WJAR: PROVIDENCE, R.I. — For the last time, the dinner rush has ended at Joe Marzilli’s Old Canteen, an iconic Italian restaurant that has been a staple in Providence for six decades.
The restaurant closed its doors for good on Sunday.
“It’s a heartbreaking, sad day for all of us,” said Rick Simone of the Federal Hill Commerce Association.
Made in New England: The art of neon sign collecting and creating
From WCVB: GARDNER, Mass. — Old Signs N Stuff in Gardner, Massachusetts, is renowned for its unique and traditional approach to sign-making. The process emphasizes craftsmanship, blending New England’s rich artistic heritage with contemporary techniques. The signs are handcrafted, often using locally sourced materials that add authenticity and regional charm.
The artisans employ time-honored methods such as wood carving and hand-painting, ensuring each piece reflects New England’s historical aesthetics. The workshop is deeply rooted in community values, focusing on personalized and bespoke designs that cater to the client’s vision. This dedication to preserving traditional New England craftsmanship makes each sign not only a marker but a piece of art that tells a story.