Lake Elsinore

* A big thank you for slamming my hometown (“Lake Woebegone,” Jan. 15). “Strange,” “small,” “contentious”--good stuff. You did slip up with that “mountainous Eden” remark. But thank goodness you didn’t mention the fact that smog usually slips by us out through Riverside, that we have months of gorgeous weather when the coast is covered in low, gray clouds, or that traffic jams are something we mostly hear about on the radio. What I really appreciate is that you didn’t spill the beans that the weird people out here are so friendly and kind-hearted. Wouldn’t want that to get around.

MAXINE O’CALLAGHAN

Lake Elsinore

* The real Lake Elsinore is a far better place than your article describes. Affordable home values and incomparable natural beauty are two reasons why Lake Elsinore’s neighborhoods are flourishing. I believe a majority of citizens and businesses support the city’s efforts to improve our community and preserve the lake. Citing critics as authorities on issues ranging from water quality in the lake to quality of life is no substitute for fair and balanced reporting. Lake Elsinore deserves better coverage.

MARK DENNIS

Lake Elsinore