We are pleased that more and more readers of our column and players of our game are coming from Squaw, Alpine, and the north and west shores of Lake Tahoe. We will definitely try to expand our topics to encompass the area of readership. You can help us by sending us potential topics, sending us snippets of your fond memories of the area, and by suggesting new questions.

We are also pleased that a lot of second homeowners and former residents catch us and the rest of the news on the internet version of the Sierra Sun. Sometimes these folks are the first ones to answer our questions since the online version of our column is normally posted on Tuesday, prior to the printed publication every and#8220;otherand#8221; Wednesday.

This column is intended to be for entertainment purposes only and hopefully it will stir up some great recollections of the past and hopes for the future. It is not intended to be political, but on occasion the authors get a little excited and can’t help putting their and#8220;two bitsand#8221; in.

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Primarily the column is written by Norm (the old guy in the picture), but with occasional ideas and input from Alan (the young guy). He spends much of his time keeping our real estate business going and has been great in covering for me when I am writing instead of concentrating on my business.

For those of you that have just begun reading our column, let us explain the and#8220;rules of the game.and#8221; In each column we will have a and#8220;question of the week.and#8221; Those who answer the question will be acknowledged for their and#8220;smartsand#8221; and each participant will have their name put into and#8220;the hatand#8221; for our end of the year drawing. In December we will draw out a name and the winner will be able to designate a charity(ies) of his or her choice to which the Nicholls Real Estate Group will donate a total of $500.

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Acknowledging the players in print each week is just a fun way of identifying our readers, filling up space, and hopefully encouraging others to play.

We thank you for reading the column and really do encourage you to become more involved in the game, the content, and your community.

Great success … Thanks to the Sierra Sun and its staff for being tolerant of our content, and in letting us promote community events, especially those of the Optimist Club of which we are members.

The fourth annual Brew Fest was a huge success with around 900 attendees, 20-plus breweries represented, and great music by and#8220;Sol’Jibe.and#8221; Although we had a few intermittent showers, spirits were not dampened. Thanks to all who came, and we hope you return again next year and#8212; with more of your friends.

Next up …This year’s and#8220;Cannibal Cruise Classic Car Show and Craft Faireand#8221; will be held at Truckee Regional Park July 10, 11 and 12. Watch the Sierra Sun for events, schedules, etc. or go to http://www.cannibalcruisecarshow.com .

The Optimist Club is really encouraging local participation by local car owners and vendors/hobbyists this year and hope you will wish to be involved. We also have free vendor space available for local service clubs and non-profit organizations.

Admission to spectators is free including entry to Friday night’s movie and#8220;American Graffitiand#8221; and to Saturday night’s concert featuring the and#8220;Deckheads.and#8221; Call (530) 582-9062 for further information and to enter your car or to secure a vendor space.

All proceeds from the Optimist Club fundraisers go towards grants, sponsorships, programs and scholarships for the kids of our community. Help us help your kids!

Norm and Alan Nicholls of the Nicholls Real Estate Group are affiliated with Dickson Realty at 11500 Donner Pass Rd.

Last week’s question … and#8220;Big Chief Lodgeand#8221; was the legendary restaurant (with accompanying and#8220;little redand#8221; cabins) formerly located on Highway 89S, on the Truckee River, just north of the present location of Olson Construction.

According to Carol Bedman (the niece of former owners Bob and Bobbie Watson who ran the Lodge in the 70s and 80s), Big Chief Lodge was originally a stop on the railroad line between Truckee and Tahoe City and existed for many, many years. In its later years it became a favorite for locals for their great breakfasts at very affordable prices.

Other players and winners included: Rich Hill (called in at 5:46 a.m.), Larry McEneaney, Dean Holbrook, Sandy Horn, Pete Bansen, Jerry Blakeley, Dean Litchfield, Eileen Lyon, Ed Candler, Katie Shaffer, Claire Aguera, Sandy Hetzel, Kari McCauley, Maia Schneider, Mary De Lisle, Bill Deatsch, Pat Northrop, John Sproehnle, Patty Robbins, Gordy Kjer, Barbara Green, Bill Mullins, Keith Mickelson, Pam Sterling, Kane and Aimee Schaller, Sue Sheldon and Emily Sterling.

This week’s questionand#8230;. (compliments of Pete Bansen): What legendary Squaw Valley and#8220;watering holeand#8221; occupied the building that now houses Mountain Mike’s Ski Rentals? Call us at (530) 550-5035 or e-mail us at nnicholls@dicksonrealty.com with your answer.