LETTERS: THERE ARE PLENTY OF BLACK LEADERS WE CAN TURN TO

To the editor:

Recent reports of the increasing vote by black Americans is certainly good news. Apathy by all voters has been a major concern.

If we are truly becoming more interested in the welfare of our nation, we should focus on the leadership of credible leaders such as Gen. Colin Powell, Condoleezza Rice, Charles Barkley and the newly nominated Rod Paige for the secretary of education post.

Nothing has been gained from the negative leadership of Louis Farakan, Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson. Our new black leadership can truly be a turnaround for people in need. Our goals for the future, self-esteem and the type of family values we have will depend on whom we look to for leadership.

There are many positive attributes in our black community that we can build on rather than following leaders who constantly focus on negatives. We are fortunate to live in the greatest country on Earth. Let's look not to those who profit by our pain but to those who can be instrumental in the cure.

DON CRADER

Marble Hill