8 years. Giving back to the community. Buying a home. There’s a million different ways to gauge whether someone should be considered a ‘local’ in their ski town.
However one Steamboat Springs ski bum told Unofficial Networks that there is actually just one prerequisite needed to qualify as a local. Prospective Steamboat Springs locals must have had a drink at Tugboat Grill & Pub before it went out of business in 2013.
Formerly known as the “Drugboat,” the now closed bar used to exist just beyond the base area of Steamboat Resort and featured what Nels Hillman refers to as “the best bar vibe this town has ever seen.”
“It’s a shame the Tugger had to close,” said Hillman, “but at least I got it while it was still open. These new kids have no idea how cool this town used to be.” The 35 year-old ski bum from Madison, Wisconsin went on to say, “you’re a local if you got to drink at the Tugboat while it was still owned by Hank [Edwards] and Larry [Lamb].” Those two former bar owners sold their stake in 2011 before the entire venture went under in 2013.
“Also, if you were born in the 90’s… you’re definitely not a local.” – Nels Hillman, Steamboat Local
Asked whether or not the Yampa Valley would see any of its longtime residents achieve local status in the coming decade Hillman replied, “probably not. This isn’t even a ski town anymore. Once that rollercoaster goes up, we’re all going to be considered residents of Disneyland -Steamboat Springs.”
*This is a work of satire
Also read: 42-Year-old Bartender Is Throwing ‘I’m Not Leaving This Ski Town’ Party