The 2nd of November seems to have been an interesting day for media in the past. In 1924 the Sunday Express printed the first British crossword puzzle, and in 1936 the BBC started the first regular high definition television broadcast from Alexandra Palace. This coincided with the establishment of the Canadian Broadcasting Service (CBC). WJZ TV channel 13 in Baltimore began broadcasting on the same day in 1948.
The Sunday Express crossword must have been a general knowledge puzzle as the first fully cryptic crossword appeared in 1925. I do love cryptic crosswords. They were a complete mystery to me until I bought a book on how to solve them. To solve cryptic crosswords, first recognise that each clue has a definition (often at the start or end) and wordplay (e.g., anagrams, hidden words, or abbreviations). Start with straightforward clues to build confidence. Look for common indicators: “scrambled” hints at anagrams, “first of” or “end of” points to initials or endings. Break clues down—try thinking of synonyms for the definition, then apply wordplay to see if the letters match. Practice recognising patterns, and build a list of common abbreviations (e.g., “S” for “South”). Patience and persistence are key—each puzzle builds your skill!
Funded primarily by the federal government, CBC operates across radio, television, and digital media platforms in both English and French (Radio-Canada), reflecting Canada’s bilingual heritage. The CBC covers national and international news, produces original TV shows, documentaries, and podcasts, and plays a crucial role in promoting Canadian arts and culture. Known for trusted journalism, CBC serves diverse urban and rural audiences, adapting to digital demands while maintaining its commitment to impartiality, education, and cultural representation across Canada. WJZ-TV Channel 13 is a CBS-affiliated television station based in Baltimore, Maryland. WJZ-TV serves the Baltimore metropolitan area, delivering news, weather, sports, and entertainment programming. Known for its strong commitment to local news, the station covers Baltimore’s community events, breaking news, and regional issues with a focus on public service and integrity. In addition to CBS network shows, WJZ-TV produces popular local programming and has a reputation for in-depth investigative reporting. As one of Baltimore’s most-watched stations, WJZ-TV remains a trusted source for viewers seeking comprehensive coverage of Maryland’s local stories.