I am trying to become a good citizen of Chicago, in part because my husband and I are new-ish residents; in part because I am old enough to give back without payback; and in part because Chicago can use good citizens.

As a member of an advisory council for public media, this week I listened to its CEO give a speech at its annual board meeting. Since I am a journalist, I was inclined to respond to his message on the critical role of authentic news reporting and analysis; but as a citizen I felt a big puff of pride that another citizen would speak fearlessly and ferociously when he might have done otherwise.

It matters little the exact words he delivered though “Journalism explores controversy. It does not EXPLOIT controversy for sport” has a memorable ring I enjoy. What matters is that you can hear some rousing speeches in Chicago. What matters is Chicago is a rousing place. I like that about our city.