Upon hearing vociferous argument against and for sumo on television - ancient and honorable sport with new approach - I have concluded investigation and have drawn conclusions which are the following.

    1. TV sumo's growing fan section was spawned from unselfish and untiring effort of local proprietors of malt, grain and grape establishments of solace. I find in these establishments, that when considerable amount of solace are consumed, greater volume becomes applause for sumo.
    2. Increase in interest inn sumo through TV also springs up from uncontrollable desire by some-sad enough, especially low-sallaried persons included - to wager pocket money on outcomes. I cry when I sadly feel this could result in "fixed" sumo one day, like foreign basketball games.
    3. Also attracting type of spectator who fancies, after numerous solace, one or another contestant somehow resemble relative-by-marriage. This type of "fan" is most not desirable, as he is disturbing to other "fans" with foul-mouthing of language in excitement, and clamor of blood - particularly of fancied resemblance. Some foreign resident are regretfully included... My eyes fill with tears again when I observe this type...
    4. Seems to give escape from boredom of longtime foreign resident who appear not necessary to support selves visibly with exertion. This category include resident teaching friend I know. I am joyful for his release from boredom.
    5. High school and university uniform are numerous in coffee shops whose kindly owners have placed TV sets. Of course, these are not large spenders, as pocket resources are sadly small. But they are not forced to turn to studies by poverty, as 50 yen coffee is good for all matches. Or until supper.
    6. Fading ladies, including foreigners are noticed watching sumo on TV. If offers, maybe, what Nichigeki offers wayward bachelor or husbands without straight heart... The opportunity to view discreetly on TV tsubos of unrobed male sumo beauty in motion!
    7. Honorable policemen, railway station personnel, and other official once forced to while away boring duty hour over "shogi" and "go" board - often just plain working - are swelling ranks of TV sumo fan. I think this is social progress, as this fan is now too preoccupied to complain about low-salary; resulting in less strike threat and begrudged operation of railways.
    Conclusion drawn - Sumo on TV must be consider advantageous as it appeals to all, except of course, those who must be diligent in constant eight hours of work, and ill-tempered housewife who bend over gasjet fire, only to see foods turn cold.
    Also, Education Ministry may be saddened one day to learn our youth, upon so much depends for bright futures, considerably more will be familiar with sumo that boring more academic stuff...