Letters To The Editor

But I will remember that, in the words of Mr. Leavy, "with perseverance, there's accomplishment!" I'm sure that with the help of God, and someone willing to trust me with a second chance, my goals will be met.

NAME WITHHELD

Big props go out for the Brothers Only, "Keep Your Head To The Sky," in the September issue. Your column was such an inspiration to me and my situation that it inspired me to write this letter.

Yes, there is a message in the music, no doubt, negative or positive. Although, in your column the message sent out was just as powerful as the one Earth, Wind & Fire gave us in the '70s for the betterment of my future.

ROBERT E. REEVES

Starke, Fla.

THE CASE FOR REPARATIONS WHY? HOW MUCH? WHEN?

I am writing in response to the article, "The Case For Reparations: Why? How Much? When?" (Aug. 2000). The debate regarding this important issue is of paramount importance to the African-American community.

As an African-American Community organizer who was born and raised on the South Side of Chicago--now residing in Minneapolis, Minnesota I support HR-40, the bill authored by the Hon. John Conyers (D-Michigan).

Minnesota prides itself on being a "liberal state." I feel that this would be the perfect site to begin reparation forums.

CAROL Y. LEWIS

Minneapolis, Minn.

I am responding to the article, "The Case for Reparations: Why? How Much? When?" The article was informative and the topic needs to be discussed more in media and the public forums.

America can no longer sweep the evils done to African-Americans under the carpet.

NASSOR ADE

Brooklyn, N.Y.

Let me first start by commending your efforts for that wonderful article, "The Case For Reparations."

I was very glad reading through the article and seeing people like John Conyers being involved. If only more of our African-American Brothers and Sisters could wake up from their deep slumber and pick up the baton of freedom and liberty by joining John Conyers and others in achieving that goal, then the labor of our great-great-grandfathers will not be a waste.

MONEY TALKS

Your article, "Tips on Tipping," in Money Talks (Sept. 2000), comes at a time most needed. There was a total of 2,600 people on board our cruise ship with a clear majority being of African decent. Our Black Brothers and Sisters are traveling abroad more than anytime in the past, and it's essential that good tipping takes place in order that we continue to receive top-of-the-line services.

Your outstanding report on tipping etiquette should be extracted by your readers and plastered on the walls, refrigerators, cabinet doors and bathrooms of homes.

As I write, I am removing this page, running off a few copies to present any future travel or dining companion in an effort to short-circuit poor tipping in the face of outstanding service.

NAME WITHHELD

Jacksonville, Fla.

SISTERSPEAK

Your Sisterspeak column, "The Beauty Myth" (Sept. 2000), on older men having the "Barbie Syndrome" was a bit one-sided. First of all let me say that I am 22 years old and my fiance is 32. I am the first young woman he has ever dated with this much of an age gap. While there is a growing trend toward older men dating younger women, the underlying cause is much deeper than the media. Maybe it would help to take a look at yourself for a moment. A man wants a woman who is first going to physically appeal to him, so take care of yourself. A woman should be flexible. He wants a woman who knows how to have fun and keep him alive, adds spontaneity to the relationship. Do things with your man, even if it's something you don't really care for. A man wants a woman who makes him feel like a man, so stop trying to pretend that you are invincible and don't need him. Stop being threatened by the idea of younger women and do what you need to do so that he won't have to look to a younger woman for happiness.