thumbs_up VECTOR CONTROL: WOULD PRISON COOL LORRAINE CERVANTES’ BURNING DESIRES? [By Steve Lowery, Aug. 19]

I worked as a copyreader and wrote for the Compton Bulletin during the summer of 1987, under the late great publisher, O. Ray Watkins. The paper, along with staff writers John Cordero and Ron (I forgot his last name), crusaded for the community and we found not only political no-no’s, but good events and tragic ones. To hear of someone long notable in the Hub City allegedly [endorse] an arson attack is not only irresponsible and possibly a crime, but stupid as well. Compton is best served by a crusading newspaper that, in the long run, benefits and boosts that community. From what I have seen of my former paper, it hasn’t failed in that mission. If there is an issue, the paper should address it. That’s what a free press in the United States of America does. / SHELDON L. MCCORMICK

 I was a live witness and will testify – she needs to be locked up, if nothing else, for being stupid. And she is on Compton College Board of Trustees! GEEEZZZ! / RL RAY

 Mr. Lowery, you have outdone yourself with this fine edition of “Vector Control.” The pic of Cervantes is insanely entertaining. She must be certifiable. / LBCITYGIRL

 GREATER LONG BEACH—HEY, THAT’S US—GETS A LITTLE NOD ON LAOBSERVED [Dave Wielenga, Aug. 17]

 LAObserved is how I found out about Greater Long Beach. It’s now bookmarked and I’ll be back. / SHELLY BRYAN SCHRAFF

 GREEN IS GREATER FEST: ENVIROS UNITE OVER MUSIC, ART AND A 50/50 DRAWING [Dave Wielenga, Aug.19]

“The winner keeps half the pot.” Free pot! I’m in! / HOWARD X

 LBREPORT.COM EDITORIAL: HOW TO KEEP SUMMER BAND CONCERTS IN OUR PARKS [Bill Pearl, Aug. 8]

How about taking the L.B. Municipal Band back to its roots? On the (occasional) nights I don’t go to the park we still hear the band six blocks away. Is this necessary? Most of us are there for the sense of community more than the music anyway. The point is to enjoy time in the park with friends and neighbors. Let’s roll it back a century or so and let the band play naturally without expensive sound equipment. 15,000 people were at Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address without benefit of amplifiers. Those who sit close hear clearly, those further back will still enjoy the experience and it costs LOTS less. / EVERETT HARPER