Selected columns
from the Tribune years
-- and other vintage work

Even before his first column for the Chicago Tribune on Jan. 11, 1984, Mike Royko has entertained, touched -- and in some cases, even riled -- the newspaper's readers. Here is an abridged set of the columnist's most memorable pieces.

Millions in his firing squad: Who killed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.? Royko offers an answer.
April 5, 1968

Hearty 'hallo' from Greece: The Billy Goat Tavern's Sam Sianis takes a wife.
November 23, 1973

A tribute: Royko offers a look back at Richard J. Daley after the mayor's death.
December 21, 1976

New address sits fine, thank you: Mike Royko's first column in the Chicago Tribune.
January 11, 1984

In Alien's tongue, 'I quit' is vacation: Royko explains how he can work at one paper and be on vacation at another.
January 12, 1984

1985: Columns on Frank Sinatra, magnificent snobs and Madonna's hooker chic.

1986: What's the frequency, Mike? He lets you know. Also: Royko waxes poetic on the Bears, barbecued ribs and Ferdinand Marcos.

1987: The columnist lambastes trendy eateries, Oral Roberts and lights at Wrigley Field.

1988: Odes to Green Bay, Jimmy Swaggart ... and Norway.

1989: Royko takes on Ditka, Cubs fans and San Francisco. In separate columns, of course.

1990: Columns cover Chicago politics, cow gas and a cat's best friend.

1991: Why Royko passed up a burger with the president -- and other thoughts.

1992: The columnist takes a look at Somalia, eco-nags and talk shows.

1993: Mary and Joe return; also, Harry Thomason's "senile" remark and Michael Jordan's retirement.

1994: Commentaries on orphanages, the IRS and St. Patrick's Day.

1995: The columnist hits the 'net ... as well as the Bears and a certain kissing alderman.

1996: Royko's work sparks controversy in the city's Hispanic community.

1997: Columns touch on the curse of Wrigley, Chicagonics and Dennis Rodman.

© 1997 Chicago Tribune