WCBS/880 AM, the iconic all-news radio station in New York known for its signature “Traffic and weather together on the 8’s” slogan, will cease broadcasting on August 26, as declared by its parent company Audacy on Monday.
In a surprising turn of events in the competitive sports talk radio scene, Audacy will hand over the 880 frequency to ESPN New York, a direct competitor to its own WFAN sports radio station. The transition will mean that Knicks and Rangers games will now air on ESPN New York, while the Mets games will still be broadcast on 880 AM.
Unfortunately, numerous staff members, including well-known radio personalities, will be let go as part of this decision, according to their union representatives. Morning anchor Wayne Cabot described the news as a “gut punch” during an on-air interview.
Audacy explained that the change was necessary due to the challenges faced by local journalism, leading them to concentrate on their other prominent New York station, 1010 WINS. This move aims to enhance the impact of their news delivery in the New York City metropolitan area.
The exit of WCBS/880 represents a significant shift in the local news landscape, reflecting broader trends in the industry, as noted by experts in the field. The impact of these changes on local journalism and the community is a cause for concern, emphasizing the importance of supporting local news outlets.
Vocabulary List:
- Cease /siːs/ (verb): To bring or come to an end.
- Transition /trænˈzɪʃ.ən/ (noun): The process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another.
- Broadcast /ˈbrɔːd.kæst/ (verb): To transmit (a program or some information) by radio or television.
- Significant /sɪɡˈnɪf.ɪ.kənt/ (adjective): Sufficiently great or important to be worthy of attention; noteworthy.
- Concatenate /kənˈkæt.ɪ.neɪt/ (verb): To link things together in a series or chain.
- Concern /kənˈsɜrn/ (noun): A matter of interest or importance to someone.
How much do you know?
