Lakes at Hansen Dam

* Re “Quiet Waters,” Nov. 6.

Surprise! Surprise! It’s November and no one is using the Hansen Dam so-called “swimming lake,” which for the most part is only a huge wading pool. Yes, as could easily have been predicted, it will sit idle for eight months of the year. As to the tiny “boating lake,” saying it is a replacement for the old lake is a monumental farce. This project is one of the most flagrant wastes of our tax money we have ever seen. It should be dubbed “Berman’s Folly.”

HOWARD LOCKWOOD

Lake View Terrace

* As a resident of the overlooking community of Kagel Canyon, I have been a frequent visitor at the [Hansen Dam Recreation Area] pool during the past few months with my 1-year-old daughter (who simply loves the water). Part of the problem of attendance is attributed by local residents to the zealous enforcement of a requirement of “Red Cross approved” bathing suits, which local residents and white lifeguards agree is a racially motivated policy. The fundamental reason, however, is quite simple: the water is too cold! I have met no one at the dam who is afraid of drug pushers.

ANDREW HOWARD

Kagel Canyon