M2 November 2026 Issue Editor’s Letter
As we go to print, there’s a lot going on in the world: record-breaking IPOs, protests in Paris, an election in New Zealand and more petrol price hikes everywhere. There’s a lot to doomscroll and I’m not going to add any hot takes to the moment. I’ve found a new hobby though in Shaun Usher’s Letters of Note Substack – probably just the world’s biggest archive of letters. And most of it predates ChatGPT, so these are letters written by humans.
Some are rambling brain dumps; others are pointed, crafted literary works. All offer insight into a moment in time. Alongside letters from famous authors, stars and world leaders, there’s often genius in the mundane and ridiculous. For this particular editor’s letter, I’ll hand it over to an exchange from a much simpler time.
In November 1974, attorney and Cleveland Browns season-ticket holder Dale Cox wrote to his favourite team with a serious concern:
THE COMPLAINT
November 18, 1974
Gentlemen:
I am one of your season ticket holders who attends or tries to attend every game. It appears that one of the pastimes of several fans has become the sailing of paper airplanes generally made out of the game program. As you know, there is the risk of serious eye injury and perhaps an ear injury as a result of such airplanes. I am sure that this has been called to your attention and that several of your ushers and policemen witnessed the same.
Please be advised that since you are in a position to control or terminate such action on the part of fans, I will hold you responsible for any injury sustained by any person in my party attending one of your sporting events. It is hoped that this disrespectful and possibly dangerous activity will be terminated.
Very truly yours,
ROETZEL & ANDRESS
Dale O. Cox
THE RESPONSE
November 21, 1974
Dear Mr. Cox:
Attached is a letter that we received on November 19, 1974. I feel that you should be aware that some a**hole is signing your name to stupid letters.
Very truly yours,
CLEVELAND STADIUM CORP.
James N. Bailey,
General Counsel