Gum-Founded

Harry Smith: Annoying Habit Of Chewing Gum Should Be Confined To The Baseball Field

(CBS)  I have officially reached curmudgeon status. Until now I think I’ve been a curmudgeon apprentice. But, after all these years of practice and training, I may have finally arrived.

The latest thing I found disturbing that is universally enjoyed in America is gum. In New York gum often ends up on the sidewalk. Sidewalks around schools in particular are marred by the black smears left by spit-out gum.

I’m not sure people who chew gum would do so if they knew what it does to their appearance.

Just this morning, on Fifth Avenue I saw a most attractive woman walking down the street. As she approached though it was clear she was chewing gum with her mouth open. The formerly attractive woman was now much less so.

Gum chewing has its rightful place - the ball field. But, really nowhere else. Maybe we could pass a law: have gum packages come with rules and warnings, to be chewed only in private - unless you’re playing baseball.

[anoonannj]

Honestly, who cares? This article seems as if it was written by a high school student. Why is this a news item?

[texas747]

He must have seen cindy anthony chewing her gum like a cow. She is one person that should not be allowed to chew gum in person!

[Allivymar]

As a mom and an occupational therapist, I found this opinion on gum disappointing and short sighted. A few minutes research would have shown gum has more going for it than making people look good when it's not being chewed. Current literature indicates gum chewing has a positive, beneficial and REAL effect on memory.

As an OT working in a public school, I have often recommended gum as an adjunct to therapeutic activities for students with short term memory problems, with positive benefits. And while it doesn't appear to be supported by the research, I have anecdotally noted a improvement in focus as well.

As a mom, I can't wait to teach my now 4 yr old how to chew gum, so he can benefit from it's positive effects.