Though I reside in New York City, I listen to Chicago radio almost daily, a result of a corporate lynching that killed WCBS News Radio 880 and transformed the frequency’s programming from all news (except during Mets games) to all sports (including Mets games.)
For decades, I’d regularly tune to 880 AM on radios in my home or car. Now, I shout an alternative into one of two smart speakers. If I’m in the kitchen, I tell Alexa to play WBBM. If I’m in the living room, I holler: "Hey, Google, play WBBM."
Sure, I adjust. The words don’t register that there’s a pile up on the Eisenhower Expressway. The jam is 790 miles away, and I’m not even in a car. And when the announcer intones "It’s absolutely freezing in Chicagoland," I can predict that I’ll be counting single digits in New York the next day. Ugh!
As the clock approaches 8 a.m., I’m being told "Time at the tone is 7 a.m." No problem. I know arithmetic.
Before the CBS Radio Network’s flagship station was torpedoed by Audacy, its new owner, I took advantage of the radio on my bathroom’s windowsill, timing loo attendance to the "CBS World News Roundup."
Imagine how distraught I felt when the debt-ridden conglomerate that had purchased WCBS Radio announced the station would go off the air Aug. 26.
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Curiously, I’m no stranger to Chicago radio. In the 2010s when WCBS broke away from the "Roundup" at eight minutes past the hour, WBBM carried the full 10-minute broadcast. I refused to be shortchanged.
We’re fortunate to be living in the 21st century. When the "Roundup" debuted in 1938, listeners didn’t have the ability to stream out-of-town stations. Streaming makes it feel that Chicago is broadcasting from just across the Hudson.
The media has fragmented into a million pieces, even as listeners took their favorite radio stations for granted. So, thank you, Chicago. If it’s 7 a.m. in Illinois and 8 a.m. in New York, there’s a good chance I’ll be tuned to the same station as motorists stuck on the Eisenhower.
One difference is that my coffee will be perched in the cup holder of a motorized recliner.
Michael Antonoff, New York
Oxford Dictionary’s selection of “brain rot” as the word of the year highlights the negative influence of social media on mental health. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are increasingly tied to a rise in anxiety, depression and eating disorders, contributing to a growing public health crisis.
With the holiday season, social media use typically increases, making it even more important to recognize its associated risks. The risks are so high that in June, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy called for warning labels on social media platforms.
You have TikTok and Instagram pages dedicated to teaching people how to engage in eating disorder behaviors. The pressure to conform to beauty ideals can be overwhelming, especially when societal stigma around weight and the use of "filtered" appearances set unrealistic standards.
From pro-ana (encouraging anorexia)/pro-mia (encouraging bulimia) and #thinspiration content to edited images that distort reality, the constant barrage of "perfect" bodies exacerbates body image issues. This is especially dangerous for people who are already predisposed to eating disorders or struggling with body image.
With awareness and the right action, we can break this cycle of brain rot and protect the mental health of ourselves and future generations.
Dr. Elizabeth Sita, medical director, Eating Disorder Unit, Ascension Saint Joseph
Lacey Lemke, clinical psychologist, Ascension Saint Joseph
This year, I’m embracing the spirit of giving in a new way — I’ve gone vegan! After centuries of milk and cookies, I’ve decided it’s time to swap dairy for creamy oat or almond milk and enjoy plant-based cookies.
My decision is about more than snacks. I’m also retiring my reindeer and upgrading to an eco-friendly electric sled to reduce my carbon footprint and give my hardworking friends the peaceful life they deserve.
Going vegan improves my health, helps fight climate change and saves thousands of animals each year. It’s a gift to myself, the planet and all living beings. If I can make this change, anyone can.
This Christmas, I’ll be spreading compassion along with cheer — and I hope you’ll join me in creating a kinder world. It’s easier than ever to go vegan.
Warm wishes for a joyful and compassionate season!
Yours truly, Ol' St. Nick
Matthew Alschuler, Wicker Park
If Democrats can and have been rigging elections, as President-elect Donald Trump and some other Republicans have been claiming, how is it that Trump has apparently won two of the last three elections? And, if a Democrat wins in a statewide or local election, how is it that Republicans often win other down-ballot races?
Mary F. Warren, Wheaton
