Nisei Ski Club

by Armand Gutierrez, President  

September is going to be a busy month – our board meetings resume (we took August off), a Saturday hike on the Timberline Trails, the Giants vs. Dodgers ball game, and work on the Snowmass trip. And it appears we are heading for some cooler weather and not the string of hot days that we’ve had in the past few weeks. For you Palisades fans rejoice in the fact that they’re making the following updates:

• Updating some of the KT and Funitel towers
• Improving snowmaking with new pipe
• Snowmaking improvements at Alpine Meadows as well

Membership Report

August was fairly weak for membership with only six sign-ups, and that brings our roster to 94 members. Our all-time high from last year was 114, so there’s still time to hopefully break that record. We also have 15 new members for this year.

2027 NSC Ski Week – Important Update

Snowmass for 2027 is slowly making progress but not where we should be. We currently have 17 signups and we need at least 4 more people (a couple and two singles) to meet our minimum lodging requirement. If you’re thinking about going on Snowmass then now is the time to take that step forward and send in your application and payment. Also, the second payment is due September 20, so get your checkbooks out.

The Ikon Pass includes Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk, and the Ikon Base Pass is good only for Snowmass. However, if you don’t want to get an Ikon Pass then Sports America is offering 5/6-day (adult/senior) lift tickets that will be good for all four mountains. Details and signups are in the Snowmass Flyer on the Events & Ski Trips tab.

Use this for Epic passes: https://www.sportsamerica.com/epic-nisei

Use this for Ikon passes: https://www.sportsamerica.com/ikon-nisei (requires a password that was sent earlier as a separate email).

FWSA Adventure Trip

FWSA has recently announced an adventure trip to Quito, EC and the Galapagos Islands from 17 – 26 October 2027. The flyer and order forms can be found on the BAC & FWSA tab on our website.

Questions: contact president@niseiskiclub.org
 
QotM: If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything.

by Karen Soo, Newsletter Editor

NSC Annual Luau Picnic – What a Great Day!

Even though I was planning the NSC Annual Luau Picnic from New York, after so many years of organizing picnics for 50+ people, it has gotten a little easier!

The weather cooperated, and it was wonderful to see everyone enjoying the delicious food, having fun, and meeting new NSC members.

I hope everyone enjoyed the many delicious potluck dishes and had a chance to meet and get to know some new members.

A big THANK YOU to all the NSC members who stepped up to help make the picnic a success!

Curtis O – For shopping for all the food, making the delicious BBQ ribs, and bringing the hot dogs!

Frank C – For providing the iced drinks, including soda and water.

Armand G – For bringing the ice-cold beer!

Jeanne K – For gathering everyone together and bringing the game tables and chairs for Mahjong and domino games.

Bill Lee – Our official NSC photographer, for capturing all the wonderful memories of the day!

You can see Bill’s photos and videos here:

https://photos.app.goo.gl/zJuoLN4gG3C62ydm8

https://photos.app.goo.gl/BFjgc7negeiiw1zi7

Thank you again to everyone who helped and everyone who came out to enjoy the day!

Hope to see you all again at next year’s NSC Annual Luau Picnic!

Karen

by Curtis Otaguro, Board Member

If you are looking for a beautiful coastal escape, the Tidelands Trail at the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge in Newark is an absolute must-visit. This scenic path offers stunning, panoramic views of the expansive salt marshes, vibrant wetlands, and local wildlife, making it the perfect spot for a peaceful walk, birdwatching, or catching a breathtaking sunset over the bay.

Dogs on leash are allowed. We will be able to hike it easily in 1.5 hours (2.5 miles).

Where and when: Saturday, September 19, 2026, Meet at 10:00am

Don Edwards Wildlife Refuge in Newark (https://www.fws.gov/refuge/don-edwards-san-francisco-bay),

1 Marshlands Road, Fremont.

Once you turn in from Thornton Ave, take the first parking area on your left.

Parking is free. There are portable toilets up the road. Drive past the gate, the toilets will be in the 1^st parking lot on your right. GO there first before coming to the Parking meeting area. We will not pass it on the start of our hike.

Lunch: Good Neighbor Seafood Restaurant, 35122 Newark Blvd., Newark. If you love Good Neighbor, you’ll be happy that we are eating there again! https://www.yelp.com/biz/good-neighbor-seafood-restaurant-newark. Anyone is free to just join us for lunch. Just RSVP to the email so we can get a head count.

The Don Edwards Wildlife Refuge is refuge is a preserve along the southern end of San Francisco Bay & the nation’s first urban national wildlife refuge created in 1972.

Here’s a link to a virtual tour of Don Edwards Wildlife Refuge Habitats: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=873ox31rqEA.

Please RSVP by Sept 16, 2026

Curtis Otaguro hike@niseiskiclub.org

by Tina Woo, , Board Member

BEAT LA!   BEAT LA!   BEAT LA!

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026

SF Giants vs. LA Dodgers – Game starts at 12:05pm

Oracle Park View Reserved Section 315. Only 20 tickets available.

Special Price from a Season Ticket Holder

Nisei Ski Club Member $70

Non Nisei Ski Club Member $75

We would like at least one Nisei Member per every 2 tickets.

Meet for Lunch @ 11:30am near the Crazy Crab’z Section 315 inside Giant’s Stadium

Please email Tina Woo for if you are interested baseball@niseiskiclub.org

Please complete the below information PER PERSON

Name: First ____________________________________ Last ___________________________________________

­­­Phone Number: _______________________________ Email _________________________________________ 

Number of Tickets:_________________________________________________

Please send Zelle event payments to: nsctreasurer2025@gmail.com

Or Send Check to Nisei Ski Club c/o Tina Woo, 21577 Villa Maria Court, Cupertino, CA 9501

Questions: Contact Tina at  baseball@niseiskiclub.org

By Angela Ren, NSC Member

Join the Nisei Ski Club for an exciting trip to Snowmass, January 23–30, 2027!

The sign-up form is attached. Don’t miss out—send in your deposit now to reserve your spot. We look forward to another great week of skiing, snowboarding, and fun with friends!

by Jeanne Katsuro, Trip Director

Experience Endless Mountain Horizons, complex Evergreen Tropical Forests filled with exotic flora and wildlife.

Costa Rica is the Emerald of Central America Vacation

April 17 – 28, 2027

Sign up Link: gateway.gocollette.com/link/1417445

Hurry! Signup for our Costa Rica Trip!

Seat Reduction Date is September 17

Only 9 Reservations Left!

On September 17, Nisei will have to return the remaining open positions which then be sold to other travelers from other travel companies like AAA.

After September 17, the air fare is subject to change and more than likely will experience an increased air fare.

April 17 – 28 Costa Rica $4649 Double $5649 Single

24 Person trip

12 Days, 23 Meals (11 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 8 Dinners)

Additional rate of $1990 for Business Class

Wonders of Tortuguero National Park – travel by boat to your hotel before heading further down the rivers & canals to the world’s finest sea turtle research station.

• Explore the Town to Tortuguero and relax at your lodge set in the middle of the jungle
• Experience the morning calls of the monkeys to the gentle chatter of the birds and all the other wonderful sounds of the rainforest

Take a boat back to the mainland and make your way to Sarapiqui & Trimbina Rainforest Center 

• There have an “Impact Moment”, an ecotourism destination that is vigilant of environmental, social & economic impact.
• Learn the process of sustainably converting cacao seed from bean to bar and taste for yourself what it is call the food of the gods.
• The pure source of Chocolate!

Penas Blancas River Safari – paddle & float down the river on a peaceful adventure, taking in the sights & sounds of the rainforest

• as your naturalist guide describes the intricacies of the wildlife around you.
• Visit the “finca” of a local family and try homemade snacks such as banana bread, local coffee and more.
• Take a guided walk through the private primary forest reserve for a look at the various flora and fauna.

Arenal – Famous hanging bridges suspended over the rainforest floor, relish a bird’s-eye view of the jungle

Your choice

• Costa Rica is the birthplace of Zip lining – glide over the canopies of a mind-blowing rip through the jungle or
• Make you way across lava fields of the Arenal Volcano for an up-close-and-personal look at the volcano on a moderate hike along the trails formed by lava during the 1968 eruption.

• Later explore and family owned farm, taste the exotic fruit harvest and experience the traditional way to process sugar cane. 
• Sip of cane liquor before engaging in a culinary demonstration and farm to table lunch
• White Water Rafting adventure that is great for all levels of rafters
• The adventure on the Rio Balsa or Sarapiqui River provide plenty of action & thrills, but with milder white water rapids. Class II  – III
• Enjoy the majestic foliage of the rainforest as you watch for monkeys, sloths and toucans while you raft.
• Afterwards eat traditional Costa Rican lunch and celebrate your adventure!

Following morning, wake up and smell the coffee at a local farm that produces Costa Rica’s well-known Coffee Beans!

Playa Herradura end the day with the sunset over the Pacific Ocean alongside birds in every color of the rainbow.

Manuel Antonio National Park home to verdant rainforests and white sand beaches.

In this natural wonderland, traverse the trails where the wild things are or go for a swim in the turquoise waters as wildlife rummages in the canopies.

Tarcoles Rio Grande – Exhilarating jungle crocodile safari, boat beneath the towering jungle, and look along the river banks for a glimpse of these incredible creatures.

It will be lot’s of fun!  Come join us! 

Experience the Comradery of Nisei Ski Club and have Memorable Experiences!

by Jeanne Katsuro, Trip Director

In Addition to our Costa Rica trip in April 2027

We are going to New Zealand with a Post Trip to the Fiji Islands

October 7-25, 2027 Sign up Link: gateway.gocollette.com/link/1417492

This trip will fill up fast!

• We already have 8 sign ups 16 positions remaining.

New Zealand $9,949 Double $11,849 Single

                   –Additional Rate for Premium Economy $3990

                   -Additional Rate for Business Class $9990

North and South Islands

                   -24 Person trip

                   -19 days, 26 meals (16 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 8 Dinners)

Post Trip to Fiji Islands- 4 days /3 Nights optional

                   -$1,599 Double $2299 Single Land & Air

                   -4 Meals: 3 Breakfasts & 1 Dinner

Highlights:                                                                    

Lord of the Rings Tour

Auckland “City of Sail” rated one of the World’s Best Places to Live

• A Panoramic City featuring America’s Cup Village, the War Memorial &
  • Auckland Harbour Bridge

Rotorua known for Geothermal Activity, Maori Cultural Experience &

Redwoods in Whakarewarewa Forest

Wellington “Windy City” a coastal city nestled against the mountains

• See the Beehive, New Zealand’s Parliament, Old Government Building the largest wooden building in the Southern Hemisphere
  • It is also know for it’s reputation as a foodie destination, enjoy a private walking food tour
  • Stroll along the vibrant waterfront and Queen’s Wharf

Lord of the Rings Tour

• Take a Ferry & sail across Cook Strait & experience one of the most beautiful ferry rinds in the world.

Christchurch “Garden City”, the largest city on the South Island

• Magnificent Gardens and Elegant Park District
• Willow Bank Wildlife Reserve, leader in the conservation of New Zealand’s
• species. Here you will have the chance to view New Zealand’s “Big 5” kiwi, kaka, tuatara, kea and takahe.
• Learn about Maori culture and paddle on the Avon River in a traditional canoe
• Learn about Christchurch’s long history of exploration in Antarctic during a

visit to the International Antarctic Center

Aoraki/Mount Cook Region, Enjoy unspoiled wilderness & where extensive

glaciers blanket the rugged peaks.

Dunedin, one of the earliest European settlements on the islands which holds proudly to its Scottish heritage and traditions

• Visit Baldwin Street, the world’s steepest public road as awarded by Guiness Book of Records.
• Visit Larnach Castle, built in 1871, this gothic castle offers insight into Victorian culture
• Visit the Royal Albatross Centre, the only mainland breeding location in the world. Albatrosses have an epic wing span of 10 feet

Queenstown, “Adventure Capital of the World” a mountainside town set against the shores of Lake Wakatipu,

• Take a gondola to Bob’s Peak for stunning views
• Cruise Milford Sound with rock faces 4000 feet up and Scenery that will take your breath away
• Consider an optional tour through the stunning Queenstown countryside, showcasing many of the locations where Blockbuster movies have filmed.
• Lake Wakatipu Cruise aboard an iconic coal-fired steamship see Queenstown’s stunning landscape
• Sheepdog Demonstration

Post Trip Fiji Islands Beautiful Tropical Paradise.

• With Fijians warm and friendly vibrant culture.
  • Expansive Sandy Beaches and Clear Ocean Waters.Relax by the beach and pool or choose one of the many fun adventurous activities available.

by Karen Soo, Newsletter Editor

Have You Ever Seen an Active Volcano Erupt?

How many of you can say that you’ve actually seen an active, erupting volcano in your lifetime?

Believe it or not, Curtis O. and a few of our friends who were born and raised in Hawaii had never actually witnessed an active volcano erupt!

I guess I was Curtis’s good-luck charm!
My first trip to the Big Island—and my first volcanic eruption! What an incredible experience!

We were lucky enough to arrive on the Big Island on August 11, and the very next day, August 12, we heard the exciting news: the volcano was erupting!

Curtis put the pedal to the metal and drove about two hours along the winding roads from Kona to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. When we arrived, there was absolutely no parking! Luckily, the park rangers were extremely well organized and directed us to an open parking area.

Then came the next adventure—a 45-minute hike uphill to the overlook.

When we finally reached the top around 4:00 PM, visitors were gathered at the Uēkahuna overlook in Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, all waiting and watching the incredible eruption in the distance.

WHAT A SIGHT!

We sat there for nearly two hours, taking tons of photos, enjoying the scenery, and just soaking in the moment. It was one of those experiences you don’t forget!

We wanted to stay even longer, hoping the eruption would continue for 24 hours, but it started get chilly and—of course—we didn’t bring our jackets!

Unfortunately, the eruption didn’t last 24 hours. It ended at 1:23 AM after about nine hours.

Still, we felt incredibly lucky to have been there at just the right time.

My first visit to the Big Island + My first volcanic eruption = An unforgettable adventure!

Sometimes, you really do need a little good luck!

Overview of Kīlauea Episode 53

This episode showcases significant volcanic activity and its characteristics.

• Eruption Start Time — Lava fountaining episode 53 at the summit of Kīlauea started on August 12 at 3:45 p.m. HST and ended on August 13 at 1:23 a.m.
• Lava Fountain Height — The lava fountain reached heights of about 500 feet (150 m).
• Gas Plume Elevation — The gas plume from the eruption rose to approximately 18,000 feet (5,600 m).
• Crater Activity — All lava produced is filling a crater at the summit, making it shallower over time.
• Seismic Activity — A magnitude 5.2 offshore earthquake occurred around the same time as the eruption.

by Karen Soo, Newsletter Editor

As I’m doing research for my upcoming trip to Japan, I keep hearing so many wonderful things about the famous Japanese egg salad sandwich, or Tamago Sando, which can be found at local 7-Eleven convenience stores all over Japan.

I’ve heard that this recipe comes pretty close to the delicious sandwiches sold in Japan!

Made with a creamy egg salad filling tucked between slices of soft white bread, the Japanese Egg Sandwich (Tamago Sando) is a timeless snack that can be found in convenience stores throughout Japan. The rich and creamy filling is bursting with delicious egg yolk flavor, while the shokupan bread is incredibly soft, fluffy, and pillowy.

I can’t wait to try one when I visit Japan!

Bon Appetite – Julia Child and Karen Soo share the same birthday.

For the Tamago Filling

• 3 large eggs
• 2 Tbsp Japanese Kewpie mayonnaise
• 2 tsp milk
• ¼ tsp sugar (for the classic konbini flavor; skip for a savory filling)
• ¼ tsp Diamond Crystal kosher salt
• 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper

For the Sandwich Assembly

• 4 slices shokupan (Japanese milk bread) (sandwich thickness from an 8-slice square loaf; you can make homemade Shokupan)
• salted butter

Instructions

1. Gather all the ingredients.

To Make the Egg Salad

1. Put 3 large eggs (50 g each w/o shell) in a medium saucepan and add enough water to cover by 1 inch (2.5 cm). Bring it to a boil on medium heat. Once boiling, cook for 12 minutes.

2. Once it’s finished cooking, transfer the eggs to iced water to stop the cooking. Let them cool completely and peel the eggshells.

3. Transfer the peeled eggs to a bowl and mash with a fork. Try to mash the egg whites into small, same-sized pieces.

4. Add ¼ tsp sugar and ¼ tsp Diamond Crystal kosher salt to the eggs.

5. Add ⅛ tsp freshly ground black pepper and 2 tsp milk.

6. Add 2 Tbsp Japanese Kewpie mayonnaise and mix very well. Taste and sprinkle more salt and pepper, if needed.

To Assemble the Tamago Sando

1. Set out 4 slices shokupan (Japanese milk bread). Spread salted butter on top of each slice. For each sandwich, spread the egg salad on one of the slices.

2. Put the other slice of bread, buttered side down, on top of the egg salad. Place the sandwiches between two plates to compress slightly. Set aside for 5 minutes.

3. Cut the crusts off the bread. Tip: Don‘t throw away the crusts. Repurpose them to make Shokupan Crust Rusks. These crunchy, buttery snacks are so delicious! You can make them now or freeze those crust strips and make them later.

4. Cut the sandwiches in half. They‘re now ready to serve.

To Store

1. You can keep any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days

by Armand Gutierrez, President  

As we enter into August it’s not too early to start thinking about the upcoming ski season. Will El Niño have a major effect this season? Mother Nature is hard to predict so let’s hope for the best.

NSC Annual Membership Meeting/Luau Picnic

The NSC Annual Membership Meeting/Luau Picnic held on Saturday, July 18th, was well attended and the weather was about as perfect as you get- very comfortable and not windy. As usual, there was a variety of cuisine to dine upon and three games of Mahjong and one Mexican Train domino-type game. I would also like to thank those caring members that brought a “warm coat” for our One Warm Coat Drive.

Update on Group Travel

Sara Clemons, president of Sports America Tours, updated her last year’s video on Group Travel. The website has been updated to include this new video and it focuses on the impact of the Epic and Ikon passes on lift tickets, and insight on airline changes in pricing and air seat availability. You can view the video by going to the Safety+Travel tab.

One Warm Coat Drive

Our second-ever One Warm Coat Drive was a great success and many thanks to those members that donated coats. There were a total of 14 coats (4 men’s, and 10 women’s). As I was sorting them out it amazed me that many of the coats were in very good condition and a few of them still had new tags on them. This really shows the generosity of our membership and I’m looking forward to this being an annual event to help out people in need.

2027 NSC Ski Week

Plans for Snowmass for 2027 are in progress. We currently have 13 signups and we need at least 7 more people to meet our minimum requirement. There are two 1-BD units, and the two 6-person units are still available. The Ikon Pass includes Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk, and the Ikon Base Pass is good for only Snowmass. However, if you don’t want to get an Ikon Pass then Sports America is offering 5-day (adult/senior) lift tickets that will be good for all four mountains. Details and signups are in the Snowmass Flyer on the Events & Ski Trips tab.

Use this for Epic passes: https://www.sportsamerica.com/epic-nisei

Use this for Ikon passes: https://www.sportsamerica.com/ikon-nisei (requires a password that was sent earlier as a separate email).

2027 FWSA Ski Week

FWSA is going to Val Gardena, February 27 – March 6, with an extension to Puglia and Rome, March 6-13. Val Gardena stands as a distinguished ski destination within the Dolomites, featuring 112 miles of slopes, world-class lifts, and convenient access to the Sellaronda and the Legendary 8 (ski-racing slopes). Val Gardena is on the Ikon pass: Ikon Pass – 7 days, Ikon Base Pass – 5 days. This trip is almost sold out and for details and signup forms go to the BAC & FWSA tab on the website (https://www.niseiskiclub.org/events/).

Questions: contact president@niseiskiclub.org

QotM: Never test the depth of the water with both feet.

by Jeff Honda, Board Member

Join Nisei Ski Club and try out your bowling skills on Saturday, August 15. Lunch to follow at Fourth Streel Bowl. Check out their extensive breakfast / lunch menu. https://4thstreetbowl.com/coffeeshop/

by Tina Woo, , Board Member

BEAT LA!   BEAT LA!   BEAT LA!

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27, 2026

SF Giants vs. LA Dodgers – Game starts at 12:05pm

Oracle Park View Reserved Section 315. Only 20 tickets available.

Special Price from a Season Ticket Holder

Nisei Ski Club Member $70

Non Nisei Ski Club Member $75

We would like at least one Nisei Member per every 2 tickets.

Meet for Lunch @ 11:30am near the Crazy Crab’z Section 315 inside Giant’s Stadium

Please email Tina Woo for if you are interested baseball@niseiskiclub.org

Please complete the below information PER PERSON

Name: First ____________________________________ Last ___________________________________________

­­­Phone Number: _______________________________ Email _________________________________________ 

Number of Tickets:_________________________________________________

Please send Zelle event payments to: nsctreasurer2025@gmail.com

Or Send Check to Nisei Ski Club c/o Tina Woo, 21577 Villa Maria Court, Cupertino, CA 9501

Questions: Contact Tina at  baseball@niseiskiclub.org

By Angela Ren, NSC Member

Join the Nisei Ski Club for an exciting trip to Snowmass, January 23–30, 2027!

The sign-up form is attached. Don’t miss out—send in your deposit now to reserve your spot. We look forward to another great week of skiing, snowboarding, and fun with friends!

by Jeanne Katsuro, Vice President

For those of you that like the Nature and the Out of Doors this is the trip for you!

The last date to sign up is coming up fast:

          September 10, 2026 Or until the trip is full!

                    Maximum number is 24 people

          Double Price is $4649 is an incredible price for

                    Long Distance Flight

12 days and Hotel

25 Meals

Excursions everyday

Here are the Highlights:

•           Tortugero National Park
•           Hanging Bridges
•           Manuel Antonio National Park,
•           Volcano Lava Fields or Zip Lining,
•           Chocolate making Demonstrations & Tastin
•           River Safari,
•           Jungle Crocodile Safari

I hope you can come join us! 

I hope you can find your own roommate. 

If you need help, please let me know.

ups.gocollette.com/en-US/link/1417445

by Jeanne Katsuro, Trip Director

Magical Islands of New Zealand – travelers say it is more exciting that Australia!

This Trip is Popular – It will fill up fast! – Sign up Soon!

Minimum number is 24 people

Double Price is $9,949 is the price. It includes the following

•  A Very Long Distance Flight
• 19 days and Hotel
• 26 Meals
• Excursions everyday

Here are the Highlights – Auckland & Roturua

• Maori Cultural Experience
• Wellington & Christchurch
• Aoraki/Mount Cook Region
• Milford Sound
• Queenstown
• Lake Wakatipu Cruise
• Sheepdog Demonstration
• Wellington Walking Food Tour
•  Nisei Ski Club’s gift to the travelers is the Lord of the Rings Tour Value: $129

Fiji Island Post Tour

• 4 Days 3 Night Extension
• Beautiful Tropical Paradise
• Fijians are warm & friendly, with a welcoming, vibrant culture
• Expansive beaches and clear ocean waters
• Enjoy the fun adventurous activities of the resort

                              Rest Relax and Enjoy

by Karen Soo, Newsletter Editor

PLAY AUDIO

Hey Fellow Chefs,

Since Julia Child and I share the same birthday, we’re taking this month off to celebrate.

Yes, its a month long celebration.

See you next month with new recipe posting. If you have a family recipe that you would like to share with us, send me an email at newsletter@niseiskiclub.org

In the meantime, have a great summer and guess where I’m going?

Bon Appetite – Julia Child and Karen Soo share the same birthday.

Karen Baker, Director, Apres Ski & Social Club

We are inviting other BAC Club members to our lodge.     Our lodge sits “mostly” empty during the summer months.     Some of the clubs have lodges, but might want to vacation in a different Tahoe location.     We all love the outdoors!

 It would be fun to have members from other clubs get together.     We have two weekends listed below in this flyer.     This flyer was in the July BAC Newsletter.     If your members are interested, you can call me directly.    There are also times available after Labor Day.    Thanks!   Karen Baker, 650-400-3018

by Armand Gutierrez, President  

The end of June brought us some mild temps and July is going to give us some milder temperatures (but very pleasant). So get ready for that July 4^th BBQ with friends and family and enjoy the weekend celebrations. And don’t forget to bring out Old Glory and display it high above.

NSC Annual Membership Meeting/Luau Picnic

The NSC Annual Membership Meeting/Luau Picnic is scheduled for Saturday, July 18th, so mark your calendars. As usual the club will be providing beverages and a lunch entree and you can bring a favorite side dish. Details will be in the Picnic Flyer. An Evite will be sent out in early July so please RSVP and let Karen know what you are bringing.

Passing of former NSCer Ken Pace

A number of NSC members will remember Ken Pace as an avid skier that went on a number of NSC ski weeks, his last being the Whistler/Blackcomb trip in 2020 with his wife Cindy Low (also an NSC member), and FWSA international trips, Ken peacefully passed away on Saturday, 13 June from a variety of health issues. Some of you will also know that Ken was my best friend of almost 50 years. We first skied together when I ran the Ski Fools back in the early 80s. We had a cabin in Tahoe Vista and Ken and I were up there almost every other weekend, skiing Squaw Valley, Northstar, and sometimes Heavenly.

NSC Takes 2^nd Place in FWSA Outstanding Web Site

Last year NSC came in 3^rd in the FWSA Outstanding Club Website Award. This award is based on layout, content, usefulness, navigation, club size, and there are three categories: Masters, Advanced, and Novice. Well, I was hoping for 1^st place but it looks like a little more work is needed on the website and we’ll try again next year.

Over the past year Karen Soo and I have been updating the website based on a worksheet provided by FWSA. As sort of a newcomer for this award I am pleased to announce that we placed 2^nd in the Novice category.  Getting silver now establishes a new baseline; NSC will definitely enter again in 2027 and go for the gold.

One Warm Coat Drive

Last year the club initiated our first annual One Warm Coat Drive at the Annual Membership/Luau Picnic. This year we will once again have the One Warm Coat Drive at the Annual Membership/Luau Picnic on Saturday, 18 July. So dig deep in your closets and bring a clean and wearable coat, sweatshirt, or jacket as a donation that will make an impact on people’s lives by participating in the One Warm Coat Drive.

2027 NSC Ski Week

Plans for Snowmass for 2027 are in progress, with lodging at the Timberline Condos confirmed (again) for 23-30 January. Yes, there were some changes since we could not get enough units at the Crestwood (6-13 Feb). The Ikon Pass includes Snowmass, Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk, and the Ikon Base Pass is good for only Snowmass. If you don’t want to get an Ikon Pass then Sports America is offering 5-day (adult/senior) lift tickets that will be good for all four mountains. Details and signups are in the Snowmass Flyer.

Use this for Epic passes: https://www.sportsamerica.com/epic-nisei

Use this for Ikon passes: https://www.sportsamerica.com/ikon-nisei (requires a password that was sent earlier as a separate email).

2027 FWSA Ski Week

FWSA is going to Val Gardena, February 27 – March 6, with an extension to Puglia and Rome, March 6-13. Val Gardena stands as a distinguished ski destination within the Dolomites, featuring 112 miles of slopes, world-class lifts, and convenient access to the Sellaronda and the Legendary 8 (slopes). Val Gardena is on the Ikon pass: Ikon Pass – 7 days, Ikon Base Pass – 5 days. For details and signup forms go to the BAC & FWSA tab on the website (https://www.niseiskiclub.org/events/).

Questions: contact president@niseiskiclub.org

QotM: Life isn’t tied with a bow, but it’s still a gift.

By Armand Gutierrez, Responsable des adhésions

June was a weak month for memberships with only five members joining, and we typically get around 30 memberships. July should show an increase in membership with the Snowmass Flyer posted and that will attract more memberships. For month ending in June we have a total of 71 members, with nine new people.

Jason Ku (our treasurer) and I completed work on a set of new Membership procedures designed to make joining easier.  There are now two membership forms: the Standard Membership form and a new Returning Member membership form created for returning members. This is a fillable-PDF form that allows you to fill-out the form with minimal information (name, payment type) and submit it as an attachment in an email to the membership chairman. The Standard Membership form remains the same and will be used by new members joining the club. If the fillable-PDF form proves popular then it may be applied to the Standard Membership in the future. A new set of procedures is now on the Membership tab, along with links to the two membership forms.

By Armand Gutierrez, President

The FWSA 93^rd Annual Convention (SkiCon) was held from 12-15 June, in San Diego, CA. This was my third time attending (13-15 June) in two capacities: 1) to assist Gloria Raminha (VP International Travel) with the International Travel booth, and 2) to provide NSC delegate representation. As a delegate representing NSC I attended various seminars, entitled to make nominations for the various open positions (I didn’t) and to vote during the elections (I did).  The photo shows a partial shot of a banner of all the Historic Ski Clubs.

Saturday kicked off with a morning continental breakfast and a brief general meeting. The remainder of the day offered a variety of programs of interest (a Canva workshop, Public Affairs Panel, and the Paint the Town Red session for those with an artistic talent. The Snowsports Leadership Academy had two seminars: The Membership Multiplier: Modern Marketing for Ski and Snowboard Clubs, and The Snowball Effect: Turning Small Efforts into Big Fundraising Wins.

I attended the two seminars and learned a few things about what works for recruiting new members and how fundraising can bring in revenue for a club. Of the two seminars the Membership Multiplier was the most informative since our focus is on increasing our membership. The evening concluded with the Awards Banquet & Dance. For some this is a formal event with tuxes and gowns, and for others (including myself) a little less formal.

Sunday was devoted to FWSA board nominations/elections, and presentation of various Council and club awards (including the FWSA Outstanding Club Web Site Award). Last year NSC placed 3^rd in the Novice category, and this year we moved up a notch to 2^ndd place. Once again I was amazed and impressed by the passion and volunteerism by the many attendees. Not only the FWSA board, but by the various clubs and their delegates. Next year’s FWSA Convention is being held in South Lake Tahoe. Well, that’s not official but I was listening to a South Lake Tahoe exhibitor and she mentioned that they might be hosting the convention. Like I said, nothing official.

by Roland Lee, Board Member and Son Alex

Unfortunately, no one from the Nisei Ski Club joined us for the ride. Perhaps a 20-mile ride is a bit more than some of the NSC cyclists were looking for!

Alex and I still had a fantastic day on the road. With the roads around Tiburon closed to regular traffic for the annual car show, it made for a peaceful and enjoyable ride with very few cars.

The car show is always a highlight. This year’s featured exhibit showcased Cadillac race cars along with classic Cadillacs dating from 1931 onward. The collection, as always offered a wonderful mix of beautifully restored vintage automobiles.

I’ve been doing this ride for many years, and it never disappoints. Between the classic cars, the lack of traffic, and the beautiful weather, it was another perfect day.

Check out these classics

By Angela Ren, NSC Member

Unlike Covid-19, this fever is not deadly (at least not to our health) but can be just as contagious!

While doing some research for this article, I discovered that this game has exploded in popularity across the country.  In 2025, searches for Mahjong clubs and lessons increased more than 4,000 percent. In NSC, it is no different.  Space was limited to only 20 sign-ups but they filled up so quickly that a waitlist had to be started.

The original Chinese game started in the 1800’s and spread from China across the world with dozens of variations.  At this event, we played the Cantonese style with 13 tiles and flowers.  5 tables of players from beginner to intermediate levels, each with a coach to teach the newbie players how to play or to share tips to the intermediate players on how to improve their skills.  We also had a wide range of ages playing at this event – from Christie Dews’ daughter and friend in their 20’s to John Tatsukawa’s 88-year-old dad James.

No NSC event is without a fabulous potluck from salads to main dishes and dessert.  After everyone filled up their plates and happily feasted on lunch, we all swiftly cleaned off the tables so we could start playing Mahjong.  As the beginners started to learn the basics, the intermediate players were challenged to win with a minimum of 3 fan.  As a beginning player myself, I was just happy to win at all, even with a chicken hand or gai woo.  The intermediate players were definitely a lively bunch – lots of laughter and screaming after some of them scored 5,7, and 8 fans.  Everyone played with poker chips (no money) so no one went home with an empty wallet.  The most important benefit that we all took from this event was we all had a great time!

A big thank you goes to Judy and Winston for graciously hosting this event and to the 5 coaches (Judy Hom, Jeanne Katsuro, Janet Gee, Sarah Lowe, and Angie Fong) who gave up their opportunity to play in order to help teach all of the players.  Until the next gathering when we can again yell Poong! Chow! Sik Wu! and Ji Mo!

by Karen Soo, Trip Director

Please join us on Saturday, July 18th at Las Palmas Park in Sunnyvale for our annual Nisei Ski Club Luau Picnic.
Bring a gently used coat or sweater for the ONE WARM COAT DRIVE

Time – 12:00pm – 5:00pm

You will receive your Evite invitation at the end June. It will be sent out from Armand G.

Please RSVP no later than Wednesday, July 15 so we can order the right amount of food for the picnic.