For the ‘L’ of it
This is in response to Rick Kogan’s query about whether anyone rides the “L” for fun (Sidewalks, May 6). Like most 7-year-old boys, my son, Everett, sees adventure in just about anything we do. And when we ride the “L” or a CTA bus, the journey is just as exciting, if not more so, than the destination.
My theory is that in an often overwhelming, unpredictable world, the L is soothingly predictable to him. Stop after stop passes by in reassuring order. Streets pop up in the same sequence. And while the sights and sounds outside our window may change depending on the day, it’s all viewed from the safety of a high perch.
How often do a mom and kid have a long stretch of time to just sit and chat and see the city in a way that most people don’t (or don’t have the time for)? It’s the cheapest entertainment the city has to offer. And the memories we get out of those journeys are priceless.
AUDRA EBLING / Chicago
Musical memories
Regarding your article on “Music for Lover’s Only” (Just One Thing, April 29), an album from the 1950s. I purchased a “Jackie Gleason presents . . . ” CD a few years ago and oh, the memories! Capezios, cashmere sweaters with matching pleated skirts, crushes and heartbreak and that beautiful, sexy, haunting music.
It was the last “age of innocence” and I love going back, if only in my memories.
MILLIE MYERS / Glenview
Time to get over it?
Don’t the Macy’s protesters have more important things to worry about? How does the name of a department store affect the quality of life in Chicago? Why not spend that energy working to improve your neighborhood, to improve the health-care system, to preserve important buildings, to . . . ?
ED LABBE / Chicago
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