As a Caucasian member of the NAACP who joined over three decades ago, I respond to Tony Alvarez' letter published on the day we celebrate our independence as a nation -- a nation that has an adult incarceration rate seven times the rate of both France and Germany.

I spoke at a League of Women Voters' luncheon May 20 at Longleaf Country Club. The presentation received a standing ovation from those present until the end of the report. A complete documented report is scheduled for July publication.

The verbal report was "A Portrait of Poverty in Moore County, and Its Impact on Families With Children From Birth to Age 18." Comments were made on the financial and social impact on society as more jails and prison space are provided, along with staffing for those facilities.

Time and space do not allow a complete response to the many issues Alvarez raised. For a full response, I refer him to a NAACP document that had over 20 questions for the candidates for President of the United States. Only Sen. Obama and Sen. Clinton responded.

Mr. Alvarez is welcome to his opinion. I am presenting a different interpretation and suggest other programs are needed, such as better funding for education.

John Reagan, Southern Pines