LETTERS TO L.A. LIFE : TAKING THE RAP FOR LESSONS THEY TEACH.

LL Cool J is wrong when asking ``those who seek to silence the (gangsta) rap music'' to instead see rap vulgarities as cries for help (``Hear rap's `anguish,' '' March 24). Gangsta rappers live in an era of abundant opportunities and a country of unlimited freedom. The fact that gangsta rappers are getting rich demeaning women, shouting profanities and polluting the minds of children should tell them that. Instead of spitting their lewdness in the faces of those who desire a wholesome society, gangsta rappers could be doing something positive.

Author James Baldwin said, ``The relationship of morality and power is a very subtle one. Because ultimately power without morality is no longer power.'' Gangsta rappers have no power to begin with since their actions dictate they have no morals. They are only teaching their young followers to be powerless.

The truly powerful know education and goodness reap rewards. Instead of teaching violence and hate, gangsta rappers should be teaching their followers that goodness and education are keys to greatness.

- Marilyn Anita Dalrymple

Lancaster

Filmmakers, residents see value of West Hills

I enjoyed your ``On location in the Valley'' (March 24) from the viewpoint of someone who has lived here almost 40 years and sold real estate here over 20 years.

The movie ``Valley Girl'' was made at my home in what is now West Hills (and was then Canoga Park). The year, I believe, was 1982. In the 10 days that cast and crew took over our house (that's the dining room in the photo) my daughter had her sweet 16 birthday and my son had his appendix out! Current articles on Nicolas Cage often don't mention this first movie.

The movie ``Encino Man'' was also shot in West Hills, down the street from where we live now. Encino seems to carry more weight in terms of interest to the public, but we who live in West Hills love it!

- Rana Linka, director

West Hills Property Association

`Hello, Daryl!' says fan, friend of Carol Channing 

What a pleasure it was to read theater critic Daryl H. Miller's (March 20) article on Carol Channing's Lifetime Achievement Award from the Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle. It was especially affecting for me because Carol introduced me to Los Angeles when she brought me to the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion as Barnaby in her ``Hello, Dolly!'' 14 years (and 20 pounds) ago. And now of course Betty Garrett (a past Lifetime Achievement Award recipient) is a constant in my life here at Theatre West. But even without those personal elements, Miller's article was so lovingly written, obviously filled with joy and worked on with care, that even the most unsophisticated or attached person could not help but be moved. I'd like to thank him for his efforts in this instance and his consistent devotion to theatrical arts in Los Angeles. He deserves a Lifetime Achievement Award, too.

- John Gallogly

managing director, Theater West

Features in Daily News make this reader's day

I have subscribed to the Daily News for several years and have continuously enjoyed its many features.

However, I must say that whenever I read a feature such as in D.L. Stewart's (March 12) column ``Getting Tabby to say `pasta,' '' it makes my day - and it makes my subscription to your paper a must.

- Mary Russo

Burbank