The article, "Spreading the 'bling-pong' gospel" (March 1), reminded me that my image of table tennis was greatly changed through watching the Table Tennis World Championships in Guangzhou, China, on television. I had considered the sport to be dull up to then, but watching in China changed my mind: Each of the women players concentrated all of their energy on the match to the extent that I would throw away a racket if I was playing. I was moved by their spirit to devote themselves to the 11 points in such a thrilling atmosphere. Above all, the expressions of their eyes deeply touched me.

It would be nice if the Weekly could display all of its photos in color. Color photos help to pin down a story in color in a way that black and white photos simply can't manage. Also, I would like to see a variety of fonts appearing throughout the newspaper. One font sends me in to a slumber. Would you mind if I called you The Japan Times Sleepy?

However, it is rare to see a paper that has an accuracy in editing that is comparable to Ichiro's defense averages!

(Readers, please let us know what you think of the design and story selection, and we will always strive to use your suggestions to improve your newspaper — The "Weekly" team)

I requested the Weekly run the summary of the symposium organized by The Japan Times and the University of Tokyo. I was so happy that the Weekly replied to me on the request by e-mail, and that the Weekly ran the summary Feb. 23. I thought the symposium would grab attention because it was hosted by The Japan Times and the University of Tokyo. And I thought people living outside the Tokyo metropolitan area or those who live near but are busy would like to know what was discussed at the symposium. That is why I filed such a request.

In the symposium, a keynote speaker said, "Japanese organizations lack sufficient coverage on issues involving the Emperor and the Imperial family," and that reminded me of the article "Royal wife criticized over ritzy dining habits" in the Feb. 16 issue of the Weekly. Such articles would never appear in Japanese newspapers.

The U.S. presidential election, especially from the point of view of the Democratic Party, is intensifying. What I want to read is not only "straightforward" news, but also articles that give a view of what is happening behind the scenes for the candidates.

After subscribing to the Weekly for five years, I have become more familiar with world affairs and thus developed an interest in many things. I have also realized that merely watching NHK news does not inform me of what is going on in the world.

The Japan Times Weekly: March 15, 2008
(C) All rights reserved