Going to Bat for Fans and Wild Card Dollars

In regard to the editorial ``Wild Card Series?,'' Oct. 19: I suspect that the author has nothing to worry about in relation to Major League Baseball's new realignment of its division and change in its playoff format.

The reason to create two more divisions and to expand the number of teams in the playoffs is to increase the stagnating level of interest among the fans and to generate more television revenues.

In order to remain competitive with the ever-increasing popularity of football and basketball, baseball had to make a business decision. With two more divisions and playoff teams to the game, more fans will stay interested in their teams because they will have a greater chance of making the playoffs.

As far as a ``wild card series'' goes, it will not be very likely to happen. Usually, not always, the best team will win.

If the division winners cannot beat a wild card team, then they don't deserve to be in the World Series. Besides, America loves to cheer for the underdog, and this is exactly what baseball is hoping for. Andrew DeLaMare, Rexburg, Idaho Not fitting furs' image

Thank you for the article ``US Fur Sales Increase As Economy Recovers,'' Oct. 21. I find it interesting that the industry is ``trying to recreate furs' luxury image and mystique.'' Animal rights activists' role has been to present information so people can make informed choices.

I began to make good money in the 1980s, when fur was being pushed to young women as a symbol of success. I wanted to fit this image of the successful professional who could buy her own fur.

This is also when the information about the fur industry began to come out. I learned what a mink ``ranch'' really is. I learned about electrocution, trapping, animals going insane in small cages, self-mutilation, and disease. I was able to make an informed choice: Fur's not worth it. It doesn't empower you or reward you.

I no longer buy into the myth. Cathy Woodworth, Sonoma, Calif.