This month, we, here at Moonshine Ink, are pulling out all the stops with our Do Tell column. Housing, fires, traffic, vacation rentals, scandals — you name it. Our locals define our community, for better or for worse, and their outlook on life shapes us all. For almost a year now, I’ve been trying to get to the bottom of the North Lake Tahoe’s identity — one smiling, smirking, or scowling face at a time — but I have been at a loss for the question that truly defines us all. Why do we live here? What is our purpose? Do not read beyond this sentence if you are squeamish or easily rattled. This month, after a year of soul searching, I hit the streets to ask the souls who inhabit our quaint community, “What season do you look forward to the most, and why?”
SCOTTY SMELSER, Tahoe City
Owner, Blue Mountain Painting
I honestly think that any local will answer the same way as I do. I, personally, prefer spring and fall. Tahoe is the best when there are less people around. The anticipation for a fun summer and a big winter is the best feeling in the world. It’s not too hot. It’s not too cold. It’s not too crowded.
EMILY PRESCOTT, Truckee
Marketing manager, Theo Inc.
Winter. Winter. More winter. I live for the winters and the activities that accompany it. Give me overcast days and never-ending powder. Bluebird powder days are accepted as well. I can always get down to the beach if I want some sunshine, but I live in Tahoe for the sweet, deep days on the mountain.
TODD KILLIAN, Truckee
Realtor, Carr Long Real Estate
I really enjoy all four seasons in the Tahoe/Truckee area, but I would have to say I look forward to summer the most. After a long, snowy winter and the unpredictable weather that comes with spring, I’m ready to be outside, taking advantage of the longer daylight hours. I get excited when I think about the variety of activities I enjoy in the summer. Golf, camping, hitting the local lakes and rivers with my family, biking, attending outdoor concerts, softball, barbecuing, backpacking — bring it on!
CHRIS CLOYD, Truckee
Personal trainer, Performance Training Center
Can I cop out and say that I love the high-water mark of winters and also the awesomeness of Tahoe summers? Nothing beats a bluebird pow day with friends but being able to enjoy the outdoors from sunrise to sunset in so many different ways is incredible as well. It’s great to know that if you do have to work 9 to 5 you can still get out in the sunshine before or after work. Definitely not the case in the winter.
ZACHARIAH STEIN, Squaw Valley
Bartender, Restaurant Trokay
My answer is winter, of course. Summer is great, but I moved here for the powder and I stayed here for the powder.
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