Letters: Childhood memories of the Pinnacles

Thank you, Tom Bentley, for the article on the Pinnacles and the fantastic photos [“High Drama, Pure Wonder,” Jan. 5]. My grandmother, who was born in 1866, lived near the village of Tres Piños in San Benito County, and she spoke often of the Pinnacles. I remember my parents taking me there as a child and going into a cavern. I must go back and relive that experience.

Jean Koch

Los Angeles

Ropes and royalty

I enjoyed the fascinating article about the dock areas of Chatham, England, which is inspiring me to learn more about rope making [“Learning the Ropes — Reluctantly,” by Catharine Hamm, Jan. 5]. One thought intrigues: I’m not so sure that George lll was the best source for what is interesting because much of what fascinated him was bizarre.

Carl Slate

Santa Maria

Vegas high rollers

The $550-million Vegas mall known as the Linq will soon begin opening its various retail, dining and entertainment experiences [“Vegas Mall Opening,” by Jay Jones, Jan. 5]. Because gambling no longer brings in the revenue it once did, visitors are urged to shop, go to high-priced night clubs and partake of extravagant dinners. It’s anchored by the High Roller, at 550 feet, the world’s highest observation wheel. Is it ironic and or coincidental that the Linq is strategically sandwiched between the Flamingo and Quad hotel/casinos for easy access to the gaming world, just in case someone has a desire to play blackjack or try their luck on a slot machine after having taken a 30-minute spin on the High Roller?

Bill Spitalnick

Newport Beach

Kindness and ... selfishness?

I loved Leon Logothetis’ wonderful story [“Fueled by Kindness,” Dec. 29]. Thank you for confirming — and in some cases restoring — people’s faith in human kindness.

Maris Somerville

Los Angeles

After reading Logothetis’ article, I came to the conclusion that while others may have been selfless, he was selfish and a mooch. It appears that he chose not to bring money with him on his four-month trip around the world for the likely purpose of another book or TV show.

Mike Clark

Los Angeles

Near and wonderful sites

Regarding “25 Delightful Finds of 2013,” by Christopher Reynolds, Dec. 29 : What a terrific reminder of much that is relatively nearby and truly wonderful about a region that most of us Californians have adopted as home. Thank you.

Ellen Swallow

Manhattan Beach