Dear Abby is still dead
For a few weeks now, we've been asking readers whether they prefer to get their advice from Ask Amy or Annie's Mailbox.
Here's an update from features editor Susan Ladd:
"So far, 253 people have called or e-mailed a vote on whether we keep Annie's Mailbox or replace it with Ask Amy. The test period for Ask Amy continues through Dec. 25. The poll has produced some interesting comments. While most people have thanked us for letting them weigh in, a few have doubted whether we'll really make the decision based on the reader vote.
"We will. That's why we asked. A few readers have also said they're sure this is all about money, and we're just trying to find something cheaper to put in the paper. Trust me, it's not about money. I have to admit (and my boss may be somewhat chagrined to hear it) that I haven't even checked to see if there's a price difference. Generally, these types of syndicated features are comparable in cost.
"We did this to see if you're happy with the content we're offering. Space is a precious commodity, and we want make good choices about how we use it. There's still time to vote, so let us know what you think."
I'm not chagrined. (No, I didn't have to look the word up in the dictionary, either.) Money's not the issue here. Getting the best advice column is. If it is easier for you, leave your vote here. I'll make sure Susan gets them.
Comments (6)
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This reader's opinion (for what it's worth)...
Annie's Mailbox is a cross between "let's be friends!" and the Yellow Pages.
Ask Amy, on the other hand, should start every column with, "OK, here's the deal..." The only thing that's missing is the head smack.
If you want advice, keep Amy. If you want casseroles and hugs, go with Annie's crew.
Posted on November 30, 2005 1:58 PM
I agree. Ask Amy wins hands down.
Posted on November 30, 2005 9:32 PM
I'm here to cast my ballot for that high old wise old sage on high, Confuseus.
Isn't it about time an old man was given equality? Why is there a media based bias against male advice columnists? ;-)
Posted on December 1, 2005 7:36 AM
Count me among those who prefer Ask Amy.
Posted on December 1, 2005 12:14 PM
I like both colums. I found the style to be sort of the same. Good old fashioned good advice. sorry I couldn't vote either way.
Posted on December 3, 2005 11:10 PM
I am a bit embarrased to admit it, but I read a lot of advice columns. A lot. Don't really know why, but I think it is my nosy nature,
Anyway, the best advice columns, in my esteemed opinion, are Amy Dickinson (Ask Amy) and Carolyn Hax (Tell Me About It). They don't just offer a pat answer or observation, but honest-to-goodness advice.
Annie's mailbox is in no way the worst (it is pretty much on par with the Dear Abby column), but it can't touch Ask Amy.
Posted on September 22, 2006 1:50 AM