I Don't Use The Word Local Anymore

If you’re in Tahoe this month, pick up the Moonshine Ink’s July’s issue. I’m in it! Thanks to Editor-in-Chief Mayumi for asking me to contribute to the Think Local section, knowing full well I don’t live there anymore. But connection to place is strong. And no matter where I live, I can’t seem to shake this feeling that Tahoe is, and will always be, my home (emotionally, but probably not physically).

Writing this was cathartic, and I thank everyone at the Moonshine Ink for gifting me the space and time to publish it.

Story cover: picture of me (age 2) pulling up my pants at Barker Pass, Lake Tahoe

What Else Do I Write Besides My Novel?

(And opinion pieces for small independent newspapers?) For 10 years, I’ve been researching and writing the same book—a historical novel about logging in Tahoe. But I do have to make money. So professionally, I work a lot with Tahoe XC specifically on the Tahoe XC Lodge Project, and I also write articles for various publications.

Here are some I’ve published recently:

Published in Bend Savvy360 Magazine (Summer/Fall 2023 issue)

Into the Deep - Get underground and explore caves and lava tubes in Central Oregon

Restoring Land - Not only does Camp Polk Meadow Preserve protect miles of critical fish habitat, but it is also home to Deschutes County’s oldest historical Euro-American structure

Evoking Wonder - The High Desert Museum tells the story of place. Through artwork, rotating exhibits and wildlife programs, this nonprofit challenges, curates and invites you to explore.

Ghost writing for Ashley & Vance Engineering

(Ghost writing means I don’t have my name on these pieces, but I’m the writer behind the scenes.)

Structural Considerations for Restoring the Historic Spheir Building - Rehabilitating a 1917 downtown building for new use and to code in downtown Bend, Oregon

Water Reclamation Facilities Aren’t Glamorous, Unless You’re an Engineer - A close look at the structural and civil engineering behind the City of Morro Bay Water Reclamation Facility

*All writing fueled by endless cups of Earl Grey tea.