by Armand Gutierrez, President

It’s June and the start of the 2021-2022 NSC season. Our recent election resulted in no changes to the board. Thanks to all of you that took the time to vote, and you can read the full election results in Hoyt’s article.

NSC Annual Membership Meeting and Luau Picnic

The NSC Annual Membership Meeting and Luau Picnic is slated for late August so mark your calendars. With pandemic restrictions being eased this month we’re counting on having our picnic at Las Palmas Park in Sunnyvale and currently working on making reservations.

2022 NSC Ski Week to Steamboat, CO

Plans are moving smoothly for the Steamboat ski week trip for 2022 and the date is from 29 January – 5 February 2022. A number of people have all ready secured their Ikon Passes for the Steamboat trip, and it’s not too late to get yours if you haven’t done so yet. There is one limitation that we haven’t encountered before and that is airline reservations. We have 36 airline seats booked on Alaska Airlines, but there is a limit of 25 sets of skis that can be loaded onto the aircraft from Seattle to Hayden. Like I said, we’ve never had this limitation imposed on us on previous Steamboat trips. See the attached Steamboat flyer details on the trip and signups.

Steamboat is on the Ikon Pass, and is also good for Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows. Here is what you need to know about the Ikon and Epic Passes for the Steamboat trip:

• Purchase an Ikon Pass (Squaw/Alpine) from Sports America and receive a:
  • $30 trip discount for an Ikon Base Pass, or 
  • $50 trip discount for an Ikon Pass.
  • Go to this link to purchase: : www.sportsamerica.com/ikon-nisei.
  • The Ikon Base Pass is good for five days skiing at Steamboat.

• Purchase an Epic Pass (Northstar, Heavenly, Kirkwood) from Sports America and receive a:
  • 20% discount offered by Epic Pass
  • $30 trip discount for an Epic Local Pass, or 
  • $50 trip discount for an Epic Pass
  • Go to this link to purchase: www.sportsamerica.com/epic-nisei.
  • Epic passes cannot be used at Steamboat.

• Purchase both the Ikon/Epic passes and you will receive a combination trip discount based on the type of passes you purchase.

If you have any questions about either of the passes then drop me a line at president@niseiskiclub.org.

QotM: Volunteer: The pleasure you receive will more than outweigh the time you spend.

by Hoyt Nelson, Board Member

The ballots are all in and the results are that the NSC board remains the same as for last year.  There were 26 returns out of 40 members.  There were no willing challengers or write-ins.  This was a fairly large return for a social organization – especially since Covid 19 had such a huge effect on our activities.    It was important to run the elections anyway since our bylaws require it and we need to demonstrate an election to retain our non-profit status.  Thank you all for your participation. We look forward to a more Covid-free, social and snowy coming year.  Don’t forget to  fill out and send in your membership application and dues for the coming year.  Hoyt Nelson, NSC board member at large.

by Armand Gutierrez, President

May is here and that means it’s time to bring an end to the NSC 2020-2021 season. Unlike years past, NSC experienced an atypical season with all of our main accomplishments and events cancelled. Two of our main events, the annual ski week and the annual Luau and Membership picnic were the most significant sacrificial lambs for this season.

But now it’s June, which marks the start of the NSC 2021-2022 season, and it’s time to restart the upcoming season with a return of our standby events and perhaps a few new ones. Beginning this month you can take advantage of the $5 membership discount if you sign up and submit your membership form before May 31^st. Please submit your application to Tina Woo (Membership Chair). See her article below for more information.

The board has been meeting frequently because life with NSC does go on.  Plans are in the making for our annual Luau and Membership Picnic, our ski week trip to Steamboat, and a few other events that are in the planning stages.

Board Nominations & Elections

The nominations process has been completed and the next step is elections. The elections chairman (that would be Hoyt Nelson) tells me there were no nominations. Therefore, the slate consists of the incumbents, and we’re fortunate that everyone on the board has agreed to serve again. However, voting is important and although there were no new nominations you can still vote for a write-in candidate. Whether you’re voting for an incumbent or a write-in candidate, it’s important that you do vote. Your vote tells the board that you do appreciate the volunteer work performed by members of the board, so please take the very short time needed to cast your vote. The election ballot using Google Forms will be distributed in the coming week.

2022 NSC Ski Week to Steamboat, Colorado

Next year’s ski week will be at Steamboat, CO from 29 January – 5 February, 2022. Steamboat is an Ikon Pass destination so you can pick up an Ikon Pass for the next season. Once again, Sports America will be offering the Epic/Ikon Pass promotion-trip rebate for anyone that goes on the trip and purchases a pass through Sports America.

Steamboat is on the Ikon Pass, and is also good for local resorts Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows. Here is what you need to know about the Ikon and Epic Passes for the Steamboat trip:

• Purchase an Ikon Pass (Squaw/Alpine) from Sports America and receive a:
  • $30 trip discount for an Ikon Base Pass, or 
  • $50 trip discount for an Ikon Pass.
  • Go to this link to purchase: : www.sportsamerica.com/ikon-nisei.
  • The Ikon Base Pass is good for five days skiing at Steamboat.

• Purchase an Epic Pass (Northstar, Heavenly, Kirkwood) from Sports America and receive a:
  • 20% discount offered by Epic Pass
  • $30 trip discount for an Epic Local Pass, or 
  • $50 trip discount for an Epic Pass
  • Go to this link to purchase: www.sportsamerica.com/epic-nisei.
  • Epic passes cannot be used at Steamboat.

• Purchase both the Ikon/Epic passes and you will receive a combination trip discount based on the type of passes you purchase.

If you have any questions about either of the passes then drop me a line at president@niseiskiclub.org.

QotM: Never confuse education with intelligence.

by Tina Woo, Membership Chair

2020 was quite a year!  2020-2021 proved to be a challenging year amidst the Covid-19 pandemic and California wildfires.  With the current widespread vaccine drive, we hope to return to a degree of normalcy in the coming summer and fall months.  Despite these uncertainties, the board of Nisei Ski Club is continuing to meet monthly and discuss plans for this upcoming year.  We strive to provide community and camaraderie for our members.  

The Nisei Ski Club board is excited to announce several events scheduled for the balance of the year.  In late summer we are planning for our annual picnic and are busy researching local parks.  Piggybacking on Karen Soo’s well-attended Thai Cooking demo, she has agreed to conduct another Zoom cooking lesson in September.  Also, our bike gurus, Curtis Otagura and Rick Dumlao, are planning another ride in the fall.  For something new, we are researching a “day” bus trip to a local winery. 

In terms of community, the San Jose Nikkei Matsuri is taking place now until May 8. Please check  https://www.nikkeimatsuri.org/  for a calendar guide to performances, food, artisans and exhibits.  Nisei Ski Club is also a proud supporter of the Mt. View Obon Festival tentatively scheduled for July.  And, in October of this year, we will once again sponsor the Silicon Valley Asian Film Festival (virtually).

June marks the start of the 2021-2022 Nisei Ski Club season. Beginning May, you can take advantage of the $5 discount if you sign up before May 31.  Download and complete the membership form to be eligible.  We have several events coming up, in addition to the week-long trip in January 2022 to Steamboat, Colorado.  And, we’re certainly open to suggestions for club activities.  I’m hoping you will join us! 

contributed by Judy Bracken, Newsletter Editor

Did you know that if you are a member of NSC, then you are automatically a member of the Far West Ski Association? They also host ski and adventure trips. Usually there is an international and domestic ski trip each year, as well as an adventure trip which might be diving or biking. The 2022 international ski trip is still in the works, but a reliable source tells me that it will be in Solden, Austria, February 25-March 5, with an extension to the Black Forest Region in Germany, Mar 5 – 11.  Here are some other events from the March FWSA News Flash.

FAR WEST 2021 DIVE TRIP:  Coming Up. Spots still available!  The 2021 Dive Trip will be October 9-16, 2021 to the wonderful Anthony’s Key Resort in Roatan, Honduras. We have great pricing for their top-of-the-line Key Deluxe lodging, meals, and 6 days of 3 tank boat dives. The registration forms and additional information are available on the website or contacting Randy Lew at divetrips@fwsa.org

FWSA SKI WEEEK 2022:  Aspen/Snowmass Resort will be the destination, January 29 – February 5, 2022 for the annual Far West Ski Week.  We will be staying in Snowmass Resort and participants have a choice of ski in/ski out lodging or units a short walk to the ski hill.  The Snowmass base area has many new restaurants, lodging, and activities such as a climbing wall and ice rink.  The Alpine “Breath-taker” Mountain Coaster now traverses the mountain slopes.  Put the dates of this trip on your calendar and watch for sign up information to be available in the near future.

FWSA ZERMATT MINI SKI WEEK:  Postponed to 2022.  The Zermatt Utah Resort Mini Trip has been postponed until March 20–25, 2022. Participants will have the option to ski/ride Deer Valley, Park City, and Sundance Resorts. Contact Gloria Raminha, Trip Leader: garski2011@gmail.com; 661-800-8229.  Stay tuned for further Information.

FWSA 2021 INSIDE PASSAGE CRUISE TO ALASKA:  Postponed to 2022!  There’s still plenty of time to sign up for the Denali Tour and Alaska Cruise.  Participants can sign up for the Denali Tour, June 21-25 or Alaska Inside Passage Cruise, June 25-July 2, 2022, or for the combined two trips.  The Denali Trip starts with two days in Fairbanks, AK, followed by two days in Denali, and ends in Anchorage for those doing this portion only.  The Inside passage Alaska Cruise starts in Whittier and travels southward with stops in Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan before docking in Vancouver, BC.  Trip information and registration available on the FWSA.org website or contact Nancy Ellis, VP North American Travel, fwsatravelnancy@sbcglobal.net; (530) 414-8261.

by Armand Gutierrez

Spring is in the air and our ski season is fading into history for this season. Although the pandemic established new guidelines for the ski resorts, the ski season wasn’t a total loss. A number of NSCers heeded Mother Nature’s call to enjoy the winter wonderland in Tahoe, Sun Valley, Snowbird, Deer Valley, and other great skiing resorts.

Last year at this time we were facing the challenges of a pandemic and the cancellation of all of our planned events: the Annual June Membership Luau/Picnic, a second Tea Dance, Karen’s Thai Cooking demonstration (deferred), and our ski week trip to Breckenridge. But that was last year, and this year it’s time to return to what we do best – enjoying the camaraderie of all of our NSC friends and family. At our March board meeting we discussed another Zoom Happy Hour (scheduled for 5:30pm, April 9th), Karen is planning another cooking demonstration in May, having our Annual June Membership Luau/Picnic in August, and our annual ski week is in progress for next January.

Frank and Armand’s Excellent Ski Adventure
Before the season ended Frank and I moseyed on up to Tahoe for some schussing down the slopes in pursuit of skiing pleasures, and Mother Nature blessed us with clear, blue skies and good snow conditions. As can be seen in the photograph, Frank met up with some of the wildlife in the area and was prepared to defend his right to ski in the woods. If you’re a Tahoe regular perhaps you can name the resort, and if you really know your way around the mountain, name the run.

Board Nominations & Elections
Well, it’s that time again for holding our board nominations and elections for the 2021-2022 season, and an email for making your nominations for the board will soon find its way to your inbox. As you know, volunteers run this club, and without them this club, 60 years strong, would cease to exist! You are encouraged to take this opportunity to nominate an individual for one, or more, of the board positions. All individuals that accept the nomination(s) will go through an election process in May, and final results will be announced in the June Newsletter. Normally the results would be announced at the annual June picnic, but due to current county requirements the June picnic is postponed. Many of you have served on the board in the past, and your efforts were greatly appreciated and perhaps you would like to join the board again. For those that have never served, then perhaps now is the time to consider a board position and provide new ideas and useful experiences.

2022 NSC Ski Week to Steamboat, CO

Next year’s ski week will be at Steamboat, CO from 29 January – 5 February, 2022. Steamboat is an Ikon Pass destination so you can pick up an Ikon Pass for the next season. Once again, Sports America will be offering the Epic/Ikon Pass promotion-trip rebate for anyone that goes on the trip and purchases a pass through Sports America. For 2021-22 Steamboat will be on the Ikon Pass, and is also good for Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows. Here is what you need to know about the Ikon and Epic Passes for the Steamboat trip:

Purchase an Ikon Pass (Squaw/Alpine) from Sports America and receive a:

• $30 trip discount for an Ikon Base Pass, or
• $50 trip discount for an Ikon Pass.
• Go to this link to purchase: : www.sportsamerica.com/ikon-nisei
• The Ikon Base Pass is good for five days skiing at Steamboat

Purchase an Epic Pass (Northstar, Heavenly, Kirkwood) from Sports America and receive a:

• $30 trip discount for an Epic Local Pass, or
• $50 trip discount for an Epic Pass
• Go to this link to purchase: www.sportsamerica.com/epic-nisei .
• Epic passes cannot be used at Steamboat.

Purchase both the Ikon/Epic passes and you will receive a combination trip discount based on the type of passes you purchase. If you have any questions about either of the passes then drop me a line at president@niseiskiclub.org .

QotM: If you lack the courage to start, you have already finished.

by Sandy Kiyomura

Alameda is very fortunate to have Virginia and Elwin Jang, talented and dedicated volunteers at the Alameda Food Bank. They are both in their later years, and were unable to volunteer at the Food Bank during this pandemic. Having traveled the world and Virginia being a (retired) nutritionist, they wanted to find a way to help the community. Virginia collected and personalized recipes from around the world, using foods commonly found at Food Banks and Farmer’s Markets. Together with Elwin’s help as Taster in Chief and computer guru, they published this 44 page book of recipes. The recipes are culturally diverse, healthy and easy to prepare. I have made several dishes that take no more than 30 minutes. Many recipes promote the use of plant-based, high quality protein foods such as tofu, dried peas and beans.

This book has made my meals more interesting. Below are pictures of some of the dishes I’ve tried: Korean Ground Beef Bulgogi, Jambalaya, and Shepherd’s pie (half eaten). Needless to say, my “tasters” had seconds and thirds; no leftovers here! People who have purchased the book have asked for more copies, and I’m told they are running low.

The proceeds from the book sales benefit the Alameda Food Bank. Books are $10 each, with $5 for shipping and handling (unless you pick up). You can make checks for the books out to me: Sandy Kiyomura, 18 Cheshire Ct. Alameda, CA 94502. However, if you want to make a larger donation to AFB, write a separate check for them. Packing and shipping is $5 for 1-2 books, $10 for 3-4.

Hello NSC members! Below you will find Armand’s monthly message and an article about Sun Valley. If you have something you’d like to share with others, please feel free to submit to me anytime before the end of the month. It doesn’t have to be perfect…I can edit it as needed. Submit to newsletter@niseiskiclub.org

by Armand Gutierrez, President

The ski season has reached it’s mid-point and optimistically you’ve made your way to the slopes in pursuit of some skiing/riding pleasures. I know that many of you have decided to pass on this year, a number of members have frequented the Tahoe resorts, and some have ventured beyond state boundaries to experience the winter wonderlands of Idaho, Utah, and Colorado. No matter your choice, you are doing what is best for you.

2022 NSC Ski Week
It’s time to start thinking about our NSC ski week for next season and I’m counting on a return to a normal season. Although Breckenridge was selected for our 2021 trip, the 2022 trip will be at a different location.

Board Nominations
Now that it’s March it’s time to think about Board Nominations for the 2021-22 season. Yes, following the presidential election last November now we have the NSC elections coming up. If anyone has an interest in joining the board for the next season and has questions about what it entails then just drop a note to any of the current board members, or perhaps you have someone in mind to nominate for the board. Please keep in mind that the Nisei Ski Club relies on volunteers to be on the board and undertake the running of the club. It’s not all work and no play. Board meetings this year have been online using Zoom, and this will probably continue until it has been determined by the cognizant authorities that it is safe to return to have face-to-face meetings. It is a convenience to attend a board meeting
from the comfort of home, but I do miss the face-to-face interaction and the
lunches afterward.

QotM: To appreciate the beauty of a snowflake, it is necessary to stand out
in the cold. – Aristotle

by Judy Bracken, Newsletter Editor

This was not the typical rowdy, party-filled ski week!  There were no group activities, other than outdoor ice skating on the last day, and the shared meals were merely pick-up and take back to your room, if you were following the Covid safety rules.  Nevertheless, I had a wonderful time and fell in love with the Sun Valley Resort.

The FWSA entire group was about 100 people; BAC sent just 16 from the original 60 or so that signed up.  As a result, we were upgraded to stay in the Sun Valley Lodge, a five star hotel with views of the ice rink and/or ski resort from every room.  

When I booked the trip in July, I figured most of the safety restrictions would be lifted in February.  Not so, but still I wanted to go to Sun Valley and I wanted to reintroduce Mark, my partner, to skiing after a long hiatus.  We decided that if we strictly followed all the safety protocols regarding masking and social distancing, we drove to Idaho in our own vehicle, and had a separate hotel room, it was as much as we could do to remain Covid-free.  And to exercise in the great outdoors is considered essential in my book!

A series of big snowstorms the week we were leaving gave us some trepidation regarding the drive.  We were in luck; it cleared up the day we departed, leaving roads dry and snow-free for the entire drive.  It was beautiful cruising through the wide open basins and snow covered ranges of Nevada, then north to the sharp peaks of the Sawtooth Mountains in Idaho.  When we arrived at Sun Valley resort, it was a magical winter wonderland, with snow on every mountain and rooftop, snow-lined pathways, and frosty trees sparkling with lights every night.  

We skied all but one day.  There was plenty of snow due to the recent storms, although it wasn’t the light, dry snow typical of Sun Valley.  In fact, the first day proved to be quite tiring, as even on the groomed runs were little hillocks of snow all around, requiring an extra push with the skis when turning.  The weather was spectacular—cold, but bright blue skies and little wind most days.  Crowds were minimal and lift lines were short.  

The runs at Sun Valley are challenging and very long.  What they label as a green easy run would definitely be an intermediate run at most other resorts.  There really are no easy runs on Bald Mountain, except perhaps some of the roads at the bottom.  Dollar Mountain is the place to go for easier runs; unfortunately I didn’t know that and Mark, just restarting to ski after twenty years, tweaked his knee on the first day and was out for the week.  Being a professional photographer, he managed to entertain himself by taking photos and joining us for lunches. 

With my ski friend Karl, we ventured onto a newly opened, ungroomed area to test the powder on a run called “Numbers.”  There were nicely spaced trees at the top, but as we continued down the run it got steeper and steeper and the trees became closer and closer.  It was a challenge, but we made it to the bottom in one piece.  Karl and I will long remember that run.

It’s no wonder the celebrities love Sun Valley; the on-hill ski lodges are luxurious, with high ceilings supported by large pine beams and pillars, and picture windows in the main dining areas.  Each bathroom stall has floor to ceiling wooden doors.  Seating areas are filled with comfy sofas and huge fireplaces.

The safety rules in Idaho were more relaxed than in California.  There was a huge, round, heated outdoor pool for apres ski relaxation.  Reservations were required and it was a good place to socialize if you wished, since it was outside.  Indoor dining was allowed in Idaho, although we only went out twice.  It just didn’t feel right to be indoors with all the windows closed.  For lunch breaks at the ski hill, we ate outside near the fire pits and enjoyed the sunny weather.   

Our drive home was as enjoyable as the way there, and we now have fond memories of that Sun Valley week.  Next year, Far West Ski Association is planning a trip to Snowmass, January 29 to February 5.  All of us are members of the FWSA as well as Bay Area Snow Sports Council (BAC), which also offers various ski and sport trips.  Check out their websites using the links on the sidebar.  

We are in the height of ski season as we continue grappling with pandemic restrictions. Read the articles below for some current information. As always, if you wish to submit an article or announcement, email me at newsletter@niseiskiclub.org

by Armand Gutierrez

Welcome to the Chinese Year of the Ox! Yes, the Chinese New Year starts
February 12th and celebrations culminate with the Lantern Festival on February 26th. People born in the year of the Ox (1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, etc.) are often considered to be trustworthy, calm and gentle, with low-key personalities. Definitely not type-A, and I’m positive we have a few Ox people in the club that are trustworthy and hard working like an Ox.

Tahoe is finally getting slammed with multiple dumps of snow and the Bay Area is getting drenched with rain. All this is good, for we need the rain and snow to avoid another drought season. I skied Northstar at the end of January and the snow was in great condition due to the low temps and consistent grooming, and the recent snowfall made for some excellent tree skiing. One thing I’ve learned is that you really have to consider skiing in adverse conditions, because since there is no indoor dining you have to brave the elements and have your lunch outside. Not a fun experience if it’s windy, snowing, cold, or all three.

Karen Soo, our resident chef, hosted a Thai Cooking demonstration via Zoom in December and is now planning on another cooking demonstration sometime in April. If you have any suggestions or requests you can contact her at tripdirector@niseiskiclub.org .

Our NSC Happy Hour in December was well attended and there are plans for hosting another in March.

QotM: To be what you’ve never been you must do what you’ve never done.

by Judy Bracken

Since last March when the pandemic shutdown occurred, many of us have hiked, biked, danced, walked, and/or swam outdoors to keep fit and healthy. Now it’s time for ski season, and some of us have headed up to the slopes for yet another form of outdoor exercise. No pandemic will keep us down!

Some things have changed and some have not. Here’s the lowdown:

HAS NOT CHANGED:

• The joy one feels when schussing through the snow
• The views!  Nothing like seeing the blue and beautiful Lake Tahoe while at 9000 feet
• The snow itself, although much was man made (not now with this weeks storm series)
• The hoar frost on the pine boughs sparkling in the sun
• Bluebird days and windy ridges 
• Whooping to a friend as you whiz past each other 
• Laughing on the chairlift

 HAS CHANGED:

• Lift lines are slightly longer since most chairs have just 2-3 people on them
• Lunchtime is outside or on the chairlift. You can go inside to get a small selection of hot and cold food, but then you must eat outside. We found a secret place to warm up, courtesy of Carol H, the ambassador of Northstar.
• Masks are worn in lines, shuttles and lodges. You can use your face/neck warmer, but it has to fully cover mouth and nose. The lift line managers remind those who are not in compliance. 
• No boots or bags can be left anywhere but inside a locker. So wear the ski boots out of the car.

As you can see, the best things about skiing are still the same. We just have to make a few adjustments to keep safe and healthy while enjoying our favorite sport. Hope to see you on the slopes!

Happy New Year! Below you will find a couple of articles for your reading enjoyment. Please feel free to contribute any information of interest for future ski club news.

by Armand Gutierrez, President

As we bid farewell to 2020 and usher in 2021, do you have any great expectations for the New Year? I could name a few: returning to the gym for my exercise regimen, dining at my favorite restaurants, and getting together with family and friends. Everyone is looking at the COVID vaccine as the light at the end of the tunnel (and, hopefully, not the light of an oncoming train), but our return to what we consider “normal” will still take some time.

The ski season is upon us and an abundance of those magical water crystals that descend from heaven beckons the hard-core skiers and riders to experience what Mother Nature has provided. Whether you decide to pass on this season or venture out for some schussing or shredding, staying safe is the mantra of the season.

Karen Soo, our resident chef, hosted a Thai Cooking demonstration via Zoom on Saturday, 5 December. There were 45+ would-be chefs that tuned-in to catch her demonstration. See her write-up for details.

Our NSC Happy Hour last month was well attended with about 13-15 people. Since Zoom puts a maximum of 25 attendees per page our group didn’t spill over to multiple pages and that made it easier to talk with everyone without switching pages. Since everyone had a good time talking and meeting, perhaps we can schedule another Happy Hour in January or February, so stay tuned.

QotM: Innovation without specific need is of no value.

by Karen Soo, Travel Director

Many of you may remember when we had those fun NSC weekend ski trips, taking a bus together and sharing great meals. Amy T. and I planned the weekend menus, with memorable Friday night hot dinners like lasagna, ground beef and peas over rice, butternut squash soup, Thai green chicken curry and tiramisu. Sunday night dinners from Amy T. included teriyaki chicken, lemon grass chicken sandwiches with daikon, peanut noodles and somen salads. Yum! All these dinners were a hit during our rides to and from Lake Tahoe.

Now that we are going through a pandemic, we are all sheltering in place and watching a lot of cooking shows and Netflix. I’ve been cooking every weekend because we are always home, and eating out at restaurants is out of the question.

When Sandy and Tina returned from their 2019 trip to Thailand, in which they learned some Thai cooking skills, they suggested that NSC offer a cooking demonstration. During this pandemic, Zoom has become the way to do everything–meetings, exercise classes, and working from home. Since the shutdown last March, I’ve taken several virtual cooking classes. Also, I’ve been taking Thai cooking classes for over 10 years from a teacher in Piedmont. Hence, I decided to take on this challenge and conduct a Thai cooking demonstration via Zoom.

Our cooking demo focused on three beginner level dishes: Easy Green Curry with Chicken, Shrimp Pad Thai, and Coconut-Flavored Sticky Rice with Mangoes. All the participants received the recipes in advance so they could prep for the hands-on instructions and gather the ingredients. On Saturday afternoon, December 5th, 35 cooks from NSC, Inskiers Ski Club, the Alameda Chinese Club, and some of my family and friends from Washington, Colorado, Arizona, Los Angeles and New York joined Zoom for the cooking demonstration.

Prior to the Zoom class, I had the ingredients measured out for each dish in order for the class to run smoothly. Thanks to my videographer Curtis O. for setting up two laptops and an I-pad for the Zoom
call. One camera was on my pot and the other one on me. People were able to ask questions as we went along. Over the 1 hour 15 minute class, three people cooked along with the class while others made the dishes later that evening. All reported good results evidenced by the great photos of their dishes!

After the class, a survey was sent out to the participants. We had many positive responses.
Here are the survey results:
1. What did you like about this event?
-Well prepared in advance, interactive, positive, and fun.
-I haven’t participated in a cooking class before, but this was fun.
-Everything was prepared and very organized. I appreciate that the recipes were e-mailed well in advance so we could read over the recipe and purchase all the ingredients.
2. What do you wish was different?
-Since I wasn’t that organized, a slower pace would have been nice.
-She needs a wok.
-I wish the chef would freeze and mail her audience samples to taste.
3. What would you like Chef Karen to teach at the next cooking session?
-Dim Sum
-Chef’s choice…
-Depending on season. Soups, hot pot/ shabu shabu in the colder months.
4. Any additional comments?
-Thank you!!! This is the funniest lockdown event I’ve done and it was such a nice change of pace
-Chef Karen, Thanks for doing the Thai cooking class & giving permission for Sandy to share w/ACC. When is the next ski trip? I hear u need to make reservations now. Stay healthy, safe, & warm. Curtis, great job as the camera man.
-Make ya a trade, I’ll wash your car for a meal
-Curtis should watch Guy Fieri on DDD to emulate his effusive appreciation of what he’s tasting!

Thank you to all who joined us. I hope to have another Zoom cooking experience in the spring. Stay tuned! As Martha Stewart would say. IT’S A GOOD THING.

by Armand Gutierrez, President

This has been an unusual year for NSC given the pandemic situation. Two of our major events were cancelled: the Annual Membership/Luau Picnic, and the Breckenridge ski week trip. However, there was one well-attended Bike Excursion last month and there are two events scheduled for the remaining of the year.

As we come to the closing chapter for 2020 it definitely can be agreed upon that this year will be remembered for a long, long time. I’m not sure if it ranks up there to past, life-changing events such as WWI, WWII, and the Great Depression, but it has been a doozy of a year. The social distancing mandates, closures of businesses, and an acute awareness of personal safety (i.e. masks, hand washing, etc.) have affected us all in one way or the other and brings to light the small conveniences that we take for granted.

Upcoming Events

• Thai Cooking Demonstration: Karen Soo, our resident chef, will be hosting a Thai Cooking demonstration via Zoom on Saturday, 5 December, at 1 pm. Now, this is a first for NSC. I don’t recall any cooking demonstrations in the past, but then again maybe there were some before my time with NSC. Karen has already sent out details for the demonstration, including an ingredient list and recipes. Be sure to check out Karen’s article.
• NSC Happy Hour via Zoom: I’ve been attending the monthly BAC meetings (via Zoom), and while many of the clubs are hosting their board and/or monthly meetings via Zoom, several have also hosted Happy Hours via Zoom. With that in mind, the board decided we should join in on that experience so a Happy Hour is scheduled for Saturday, 19 December, at 5pm. Curtis Otaguro will be sending out the meeting link several days prior to the Happy Hour.

Christmas Greetings

On behalf of the NSC board I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year.

by Karen Soo, Trip Director

Most of you should have received a recent email about the upcoming Nisei Ski Club Thai Cooking Experience, broadcast via Zoom. Here is the information just in case you didn’t receive it.

You will learn how to cook our delicious Thai Green Curry, Shrimp Pad Thai and Sticky Rice. You will also learn helpful tips of the trade and techniques that you can then incorporate into your own cooking style. Click on the item names above to see the three recipes and the ingredients needed. (Substitution is welcome). You can follow along or just listen and watch the demonstration. And guess what! Pad Thai and Green Curry are on the list of the World’s 50 Best Foods! (Poll of 35,000 people worldwide by CNN Travel).

You can get most of the ingredients from Ranch 99 or any Thai Supermarkets.

If you have any questions, feel free to email me.  

Zoom link will be sent separately.

ABOUT ZOOM To optimize your class experience, we encourage you to download and became familiar with Zoom ahead of time. Test your video, audio, chat and view on the gallery option. For full performance, we suggest you login from your Zoom account. You can review the system requirements [here] and test your connection at (https://zoom.us/test). 

by Frank Chang, Treasurer

I guess I am stating the obvious when I say that this year has been far from normal in so many ways. I received a report from our FWSA group policy insurance broker that the ski clubs in the
group have reported an average 60% drop in membership this year. The NSC membership is down about 42% from last year…better than average, so a heartfelt thanks to all of you loyal members! We recognize that you are not receiving the benefits that you would get in a normal year of activities, so your loyalty is truly appreciated.

With the reduction in membership, the club will have an operating loss this year due to fixed costs such as insurance, website hosting, state license fees, etc. As you may know, during a normal year the all-volunteer board members are rewarded with free memberships. However, for this unique year the ten board members will each pay the normal $30 dues, which will help reduce the deficit by $300!
Happy Holidays to everyone!

Editor’s note: This article was published earlier this year and reprinted in anticipation of Karen’s upcoming cooking demo. Get in the mood for Thai food!

by Sandy Kiyomura

In December, Tina Woo and I spent two and a half weeks touring Thailand. Sandy’s cousin, Randy Chinn, met us in Bangkok and provided a “local” tour of shopping centers, Chinatown  and introduction to Thai massage parlors. The Terminal 21 shopping center had a “San Francisco” themed floor which included a cable car and Golden Gate bridge. We toured Chinatown and had Dim Sum “Thai style.”  We then spent the next 16 days touring Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Sukothai and Ayuttaya and Phuket. Here are some of the photo highlights:

At the Elephant Sanctuary, we fed and bathed the elephants. As big as they were, they were loving and affectionate.  We found the Thai people to be friendly and humble, perhaps due to their Buddhist beliefs. One morning we rose early and accompanied our tour guide to present some food to the monks.  When you donate food they chant and pray for you. 

Although it was a long trip, it provided a wonderful introduction to the country and history of Thailand, its people, culture, and delicious cuisine. It was great to spend time with a local, Sandy’s cousin Randy, who has lived in Phuket for the past 20 years. 

Note: This was a GATE 1 tour. If anyone would like to travel by GATE 1, please say that Tina or Sandy referred you and you will get $50 credit towards travel. 

We have some great reads this month, including a mountain trip and photos by Sandy K., a summary of the October NSC bike ride, announcements about Warren Miller movies and our Thai cooking event, and of course, our President’s message.

Please feel free to submit any articles you’d like to write or share to newsletter@niseiskiclub.org. If you have photos to share, keep them separate from the written document, and in JPG format please. I will then place them in the article.

If you have not done so already, remember to vote by Tuesday, November 3!

by Armand Gutierrez, President

Plans for Skiing?

Although the Breckenridge trip was canceled, that doesn’t mean you should forgo the opportunity for skiing locally in Tahoe. All of the resorts are hyping that they have “re-imagined” the mountain experience, whatever that means. Sure, I get it. It’s just a less intrusive way of saying that there will be a number of restrictions at the resort, none of which are draconian in nature. But I can live with physical distancing (a better term than “social distancing”), lift ticket reservations, facemasks, and limited access to dining areas. For this season, and hopefully only this season, these restrictions will provide a safer environment for indulging in our favorite ski activities. 

As we enter November from a long dry spell, the resorts have already posted their tentative opening dates:

• 20 November – Heavenly Valley, Northstar
• 25 November – Squaw Valley, Alpine Meadows
• 26 November – Sierra at Tahoe
• 4 December – Kirkwood
• 15 December – Homewood
• TBD – Mt. Rose

The keyword tentative is used because the Tahoe resorts are bone dry at the moment, unlike a certain unnamed resort somewhere in Wyoming. As usual, I’ll be waiting until at least mid-December before making that first drive to Tahoe and that first pandemic-derived experience.

Thanksgiving Holiday

Next to Christmas, Thanksgiving is my other favorite time of the year. The tradition of visiting my brother and the rest of the family might not be the same as in past years. The grandkids will be returning from college and, as has been reported in the newspaper, colleges have become a hotbed for COVID-19. However, the desire to be with family, plus throw in a measure of safety protocols, a traditional family dinner just might happen.

On behalf of the Board I would like to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving and enjoy your time with family and friends.

by Rick Dumlao

On Sunday Oct. 18th Nisei sponsored a bike ride to the Coyote Hills Regional Park, just north of the Dumbarton Bridge.

About 10 of us set out for a leisurely ride. The air quality was good, the sun was out, and there was just enough of a breeze to keep the heat away. We all enjoyed the day together. During the ride we learned about salt flats, a Navy destroyer still shipwrecked in the bay, an old Nike missile site, the marshlands, and a 2,000 year old native Indian dwelling.

A variety of birds and other wildlife were seen on the way. The ride ended up with a BBQ at Rick’s house. We had some burgers and hotdogs and some drinks along with enjoyable conversation. In total, the ride was 15.5 miles long and took about 2 hours to complete. All in all, it was a very nice day!

Last month we mentioned the Foam Fest in Truckee during the month of October, benefitting the Achieve Tahoe Organization upcoming winter program for people with disabilities. For a $30 donation, you get three 16 oz. beers at any of three Truckee area breweries. They have extended this fun fundraiser through November 15. See more information here.

by Sandy Kiyomura

After 7 months of SIP, I finally left the island of Alameda. It was such a feeling of freedom to be able to drive “out of town”.

My first trip was to Tahoe. I stayed at “the Ridge “ in Stateline and enjoyed the mountains that I had not seen since January. (For those of you who didn’t know, I broke my ankle skiing in January and never got to ski this year). My first stop was Granite Chief, the shop in Truckee, which adjusted my bindings before my accident. Yup, they lowered the DIN a bit. I think it’s
important to get your bindings checked. My bindings should have released (and prevented the break). Maybe they looked at my age and decided the DIN was too high.

Second stop in Truckee was to some breweries. I don’t really drink beer, but Achieve Tahoe had a Foam Fest where can get a mug and 3 beers at three breweries for a donation. It was nice to be in Truckee again.

We golfed 2 days in the Carson Valley. Beautiful golf course for $30 at Sunridge.

That was 600 miles to Tahoe and around the Lake a few times.

Next stop was Yosemite. My son was fortunate to get a campsite for 2 weeks. I’m not much of
a camper but survived 3 nights.

A little bit of family history. My son’s girl friend is Chelsea. Her mom is Elaine Morizono who is
married to Glenn Kiyomura, Dylan’s dad. We all had a “family” camping trip.

Actually, it was a climbing trip. Dylan is a rock climber. You may be able to see him in this picture.

Look near the top of the white line. He and climbing friend are at the top of the white line.

Then Dylan and Chelsea drove to Alabama
with their dog Tolby and cat Hind.