And The New N.A.A.C.P. Head Is . . .

By CHRISTOPHER JOHN FARLEY

WHICH OF THESE GUESTS WOULD MAKE YOU STAY UP LATE TO watch Nightline? Jesse Jackson? BEN CHAVIS? That's the dilemma the N.A.A.C.P. has in picking a new executive director -- they have talented candidates, but only one marquee name. According to sources both on and close to the N.A.A.C.P. search committee, Jackson and Chavis (an official with the United Church of Christ) now head the short list for the top spot. A choice will be made April 9. It's a tough call: Chavis probably can't generate the kind of attention the N.A.A.C.P. needs, but the mediagenic Jackson may be too big for the job, since the N.A.A.C.P. is also considering weakening the powers of the post. For now, Chavis is the front runner.