They’re a Little Off Record-Beatin’ Path

I just read Bill Plaschke’s article, “Standing by Their Man,” in your Sunday Sports section. And I was absolutely blown away by it. I’ve lived here in Southern California for some years now, but I grew up in Fargo, N.D. And I can honestly say that Mr. Plaschke’s article captured the spirit of that town and its people perfectly.

Forget the film “Fargo,” with its by-gosh yokels and funny accent (if only I had a dime for every time I’ve had to follow the words “I’m from Fargo” with “Yes, that Fargo”). Anyone who wants to understand what this town is really like--what it means to come from the place and be proud of it--should read this article.

My thanks to Mr. Plaschke. And, if I may . . . hats off to Roger Maris: 61 in ’61 will always mean something to some of us.

BILL HUNT

Irvine

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Roger Maris fans in Fargo, and elsewhere, should not despair over the breaking of his record. Maris’ feat was further ahead of his time than anyone realized.

Babe Ruth’s record lasted 34 years. Potential challengers had to struggle though a depression, World War II and Korea. Since 1961, the U.S. has seen only one major war--in Vietnam--and decades of prosperity. Yet Maris’ record has lasted for 37 years. We can only wonder what Maris would have done if the fans had supported him as they are now cheering for McGwire and Sosa.

DAVID L. HAGAN

Pismo Beach

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I do not recall that, in 1968, no one but residents of Van Nuys were rooting for native son Don Drysdale to break the hallowed scoreless-innings record of the immortal Walter Johnson. I also don’t recall that, in 1988, everyone in Van Nuys was rooting against Orel Hershiser in his attempt to break Drysdale’s record. Van Nuys residents must have other things going on in their lives.

It seems like the good people of Fargo need to also expand their horizons. Or, if you wish, get a life. Their self-esteem might rise if they had an NFL team. Perhaps the Fargo Sixty-Oners. Al Davis?

MICHAEL HELWIG

Canoga Park