'Such An Honor:' Former LI Reporter, As WCBS 880 Ends Legendary Run

LONG ISLAND, NY — For nearly 60 years, WCBS Radio has been a valued news source for New Yorkers, and in particular, Long Islanders.

The stunning announcement this week that WCBS Newsradio 880 will pull the plug later this month leaves a void for the dozens of staffers (on-air and behind-the-scenes), anyone who worked there previously and the loyal listeners.

"Just being part of it was such an honor," retired WCBS Long Island Bureau Chief Mike Xirinachs said. "To hear that something so iconic, something so special is ending, it was painful."

Xirinachs spent more than two decades at 880, most of that reporting in the vaunted morning drive. He said many times over the years people would say they recognized his name or voice from WCBS.

Usually everyday citizens, but Xirinachs also got praise from celebrities, including Hillary Clinton.

"Bill and I wake up to you every day," she told him.

Whether ex-presidents or current commuters, millions would listen each morning.

"It may take a while to realize what they no longer have," he said. "It's sad."

Watch the full "Patch Weekly Spotlight" interview with Xirinachs below.