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Opinion Contributor Report: Becoming a True Local – The Tahoe Way

Old Locals vs. New Locals: The Shift in Perspective

Cris Alarcon by Cris Alarcon
February 1, 2024
in Culture
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Ken Skibum Curtzwiler (Tahoe Skibum)

Ken Skibum Curtzwiler (Tahoe Skibum)

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By Ken Skibum Curtzwiler

In the majestic realm of Lake Tahoe, where the azure waters meet the towering Sierras, the journey from a newcomer to a seasoned local is not just about the geographical transition but a profound assimilation into the heartbeat of the community. Take it from me, a self-made local who found his roots in the most unexpected of ways.

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The Humble Beginning

When I first set foot in Tahoe, I had nothing but a pair of Levi shorts, a dime, and an unwavering determination to forge a genuine connection with this scenic paradise. Fate led me to a laundromat on Ski Run where I lost all my clothes, and with only 10 cents to my name, my journey began.

Casinos and Camaraderie

Destiny had me land a job at the casinos, an entry point to understanding the pulse of the town. But it wasn’t just about earning a living; it was about understanding the spirit of Tahoe. I hitchhiked around the lake, traversed every trail the Sierras offered, and dipped into each pristine lake. The more I explored, the more I became ingrained in the fabric of this unique community.

Hard Work, Multiple Jobs, and Learning on the Fly

Survival meant donning various hats – from washing dishes to being a bathroom attendant at Harrah’s and a bus boy at Heavenly. I even ventured into construction with no prior skills, learning and earning my way up from a minimum wage laborer to someone who could demand more for their hard-earned expertise.

In the Tahoe of yesteryears, $3.25 an hour was a fortune, a testament to the value of hard work in a community that values self-sufficiency.

Marriage, Military, and a Home

I decided to put down roots, starting a family in Tahoe. But, to secure a home in this picturesque haven, I had to take a detour through the military. It was a choice made with determination, not complaint; a sacrifice to call this place home permanently.

Old Locals vs. New Locals: The Shift in Perspective

Reflecting on my journey and observing the influx of new faces, a stark difference emerges. The essence of being a true local, it seems, lies in the desire for a ‘hand up’ rather than a ‘handout.’ The older generation didn’t expect privileges; we earned them. We worked multiple jobs, learned new skills, and navigated the challenges without a sense of entitlement.

In a world where instant gratification often overshadows hard work, the Tahoe locals of yore stand as a testament to the satisfaction that comes from earning one’s keep. It’s not about what you have; it’s about what you’ve earned.

So, to those seeking to transition from being a mere resident to a true local in Tahoe, take a leaf out of the old locals’ book – embrace the challenges, work hard, and earn your place in this breathtaking slice of paradise.

Source: Ken Skibum Curtzwiler
Cris Alarcon

Cris Alarcon

Former Member: Executive Board of Directors, Treasurer, Boys & Girl Club of El Dorado County Western Slope. - Former Member: Board of Directors, Treasurer, Food Bank of El Dorado County. - Opening Team Dealer at Red Hawk Casino - Retried EDC Elections Department Inspector. - Youngest Charter Member of the Hangtown Kennel Club. - Political Strategist and Campaign Manager.

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© 2023 Placerville Newswire Commentary is produced by the Placerville Newswire, a private service focusing on Placerville Local Area issues. All conclusions expressed in this publication should be understood to be solely those of the author(s). You may find us in El Dorado County Placerville, CA 95667