Just an explanation for the "Lakeside is in a landlocked state" idea. Lakeside seems like a small city and most large American cities are near the coast (besides, there was mention of a mermaid-changed that had to MOVE to the coast, so...)
Then there is the political makeup: So as to allow for "all kinds" of people, I'd assume Lakeside to be in a fairly blue state (as it is a small town, which would drive it rightwards, so as to strike a balance) - say, rural parts of Minnesota or not-too-urban parts of Iowa, Wisconsin or Michigan - or even Missouri, depending on the area.
Mind, yes, Celine is a marine biologist. She, however, lives in Oregon.
And with this post, I imagine the reaction of you guys will either be "You put WAY too much thought into this" or "Huh. For a Brazilian you are not bad at American geography". ;)