T.J. Gets Whistled for Poor Procedure

I felt compelled to respond to T.J. Simers’ ongoing debasement of Cleveland and the return of the Cleveland Browns. In an era where sports fans are pummeled by media coverage of arrest reports, contract holdouts and corporate graft, a story occurred recently that should, by all accounts, restore the faith of sports fans everywhere. That story was the resurrection of the Cleveland Browns.

True passion exists in Cleveland, a market one-25th the size of Los Angeles. A market that small, with no real economic base, managed to overcome the politics and profit motives of today’s sports scene and have its fans’ (unparalleled) loyalty rewarded. Here in L.A., there will be no team. Why? One reason is the lack of interest by the fans. Simers’ ugly cynicism should be considered a prime reason for such lack of spirit. The Los Angeles Times, the leading media influence in the market, has chosen to have T.J.’s bitter voice represent NFL fans.

Me, I’d rather hear the sound of a “dawg” howl in Cleveland.

DANIEL RUDOLPH

West Hills

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T.J. Simers describes the sanctified NFL with a nice touch of humor. But the Bottom 5 is deflating. There is no cheaper or meaner way to get laughs then to denigrate weakness. Kids learn this behavior from adults and apply it ruthlessly, sometimes, as we know, with disastrous results.

DAVID WILCZYNSKI

Redondo Beach

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After reading the eloquent letters published about T.J. Simers, I’m reminded of John Wayne’s quote: “When 10 men tell you you’re drunk, it’s time to lay down.”

HERB HAFIF

Newport Beach