Letters: Mar. 19, 1984

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Chernenko Debut

To the Editors:

With the emergence of Konstantin Chernenko in the Kremlin [WORLD, Feb. 27], the U.S. thinks it can now deal with the "new leadership." The Soviet Union is still controlled by the same circle that has seen guiding the country all the while. Under Chernenko, the U.S.S.R. may deviate only a few degrees from its former course. Nevertheless, we must continue to urge the Soviets to steer in the right direction.

Raul G. Lacson

Chicago

As a Polish-born American, I want to add to your analysis of Chernenko. The new leader has a round face, indicating a stubbornness that is typical of a Russian peasant. In spite of this, people from this background are easier to negotiate with and to handle. They are emotional, honest and, if properly approached, rational. In contrast to Chernenko, Yuri Andropov had the profile of a Western intellectual, and this image initially misled the world. There is no mask on Chernenko.

Stanley Nawakowski

Kalamazoo, Mich.

After reading your article on Soviet youth, I was disturbed and yet hopeful. It is upsetting to see bright young people prohibited from learning about the world in which they live. But I believe that man's natural thirst for the truth ultimately prevails, and this faith gives me hope.

Rick C. Reckord III

San Francisco

Olympic Finale

Although some may resent the self-assured comments of Olympic Downhill Racer Bill Johnson [SPORT, Feb. 27], I would rather listen to Johnson's confident, funny remarks than the false humility and excuses mouthed by the other athletes. So many of the skiers on the international circuit are born with either silver spoons in their mouths or ski resorts in their backyards. Johnson had none of the advantages of his more famous and well-liked competitors. Still, he managed to fight his way to the top. He is a great American athlete.

Beth Leavenworth

Torrance, Calif.

It is refreshing to see someone like Johnson who knows his own worth and is not afraid to let everyone else know it.

Claudia Horwitz

Philadelphia

The Olympics are a meaningless competition in which the amateurs of some countries compete against the professionals of other nations.

Walt Stevens Alpine,

Texas

The U.S. should get serious about the Olympics. I suggest our income tax forms be modified to delete the presidential election campaign donation and instead provide for a contribution to an Olympic training fund.

Richard T. Gillis

Warner Robins, Ga.

You neglected to give one interesting statistic. The state of Washington produced half the American medalists: Phil Mahre, Steve Mahre, Rosalynn Sumners and Debbie Armstrong. It was also involved with a fifth, Bill Johnson, who went to skiing school in the state. Maybe Washington should have entered on its own.

Bram Wessel

Bremerton, Wash.