Armand Gutierrez, President

Sad to say but April is here and that means the ski season is coming to a close. Most Tahoe resorts will be closed by the end of April (Northstar and Heavenly). Squaw Valley usually stays open later but it hasn’t been officially announced yet. Due to the abundance of snowfall, especially in March, this has been an extraordinary season. Hopefully you had a good ski season this year, whether it was at Tahoe or the Vail ski week.

Nominations & Elections

Well, it’s that time again for holding our board nominations and elections for the 2018-2019 season. Soon you will receive an email for making your nominations for the board. As you know, volunteers run this club, and without them this club would cease to exist, and it’s been in existence for 60 years this year! 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 at the annual June picnic. Ask any of the current board members and I’m sure they will tell you that by volunteering they get back more than they ever gave. By volunteering you will experience social benefits as well as provide a greater sense of self-worth, trust, and lots of fun. 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.

Big Sky Ski Week 2019

For next year’s ski week, NSC will be going to Big Sky, Montana. Our last visit to Big Sky was in 2002, so it’s time for a return trip. Last year Sports America offered the Epic Passes at a discount for any member that signed up for Vail, and the Tahoe Local Pass was good for 5 days of skiing at Vail.

For 2018-19 Big Sky will be on the Ikon Pass, and is also good for Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows. Here is what you need to know about the Ikon and Epic Passes for the Big Sky trip:

• Purchase the Ikon Pass (Big Sky, Squaw/Alpine) from Sports America and receive a discount on the Big Sky trip. Go to this link to purchase: Sports America/Ikon-Nisei.
• Purchase the Epic Pass (Northstar, Heavenly, Kirkwood) and receive a discount on the Big Sky trip. The Epic Pass cannot be used at Big Sky, but if you go on the Big Sky trip you will receive a trip discount. Go to this link to purchase: Sports America/Epic-Nisei.
• Purchase the Epic Pass before April 15th and get six buddy passes and the lowest rate for the pass.

For additional information on both passes go here: 2018-2019 Early Bird Season Pass Prices.

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

Judy Bracken

Question: What can be better than a 60th anniversary ski trip with the Nisei Ski Club?

Answer: A 61st anniversary ski trip with the Nisei Ski Club!

Seriously, we had a blast in Vail with this large group of Nisei ski club attendees. Though the snow level in Colorado was low, the spirit of camaraderie and fun was alive and well. We started off the trip with a rather long travel day, but once we were settled in our condos we awoke to a grey sky Sunday on the slopes. Some of us went on mountain tours to get the lay of the land. Others explored on their own. This required a constant study of the resort maps to figure out whether you were on the back or the front side of the mountain and which bowl you were in. Ski lifts had both numbers and names; numerous access roads connected them all. Then there was the constant pursuit of the best snow. Staying at the highest elevation and in the trees seemed to be the trick.

Those that experienced mountain tours found the group leaders to be friendly and engaging. The other folks on the tours often turned out to become friends that might be seen on some of the other ski days. The mountain is so vast that chance meetings with other club members were fairly rare. But most every afternoon there was the apres ski hot tub meeting where conversations turned to highlights of the day or upcoming plans.

As we continued through the week, some opted to take days off the slopes shopping, cooking or taking it easy by the fireplace. Some ventured to the nearby resorts of Beaver Creek or Keystone. Tuesday night’s potluck dinner was a grand affair. We spent the evening prowling through the condo complex, searching for the best food and stuffing ourselves silly in the process. As always, the food was superb and not to be outdone. What a bunch of great cooks we have in this club!

The grand finale was a dinner at the nearby hotel dining room. Tables of ten were filled with smiling and well exercised skiers of all ages. We enjoyed a delicious dinner and a great talk by our esteemed club president Armand. Before everyone went home to pack up, a group picture was taken by the fireplace.

The morning bus ride was made more dramatic due to a fast moving wet snowstorm. The bus could not get up the hill, so everyone pitched in to move the gear downhill through the snow for stowage. All made it on the bus and we headed to the airport with plenty of time to spare.

The organization of these trips and the behind the scenes activities that make it happen are impressive. Many thanks to all those folks that work hard ahead of time making room arrangements, airline reservations and much more. We are looking forward to the next one!

Armand Gutierrez, President

March is coming in with big storms that are predicted to drop 3′ – 4′ (or more) of snow in the Tahoe area. We’re finally getting the snow that is so desperately needed for our favorite winter sport and for the water that will be needed during the summer. Plan your trips to Tahoe carefully to avoid blizzard conditions on the highways and check the resort web pages to ensure that they are in full operation.

2018 FWSA Ski Week to Trois Vallees

This year, I decided to fulfill one of my desires for skiing Trois Vallees in France. Trois Vallees consists of 8 resorts and is billed as the world’s largest ski area with 600km of ski in/ski out inter-connected ski lifts. I’m sure the Dolomiti Superski area would challenge that claim as they boast to have 1200km of inter-connected ski lifts and 12 ski resorts. The photo shows the CÎME CARON cable car at the Val Thorens resort. I’ll be joining several fellow NSCers on the FWSA Trois Vallees ski week from 3-11 March. As members of NSC, you are eligible to take any BAC and FWSA ski trips that are offered during the ski season. And here’s something to think about – FWSA will be going to Japan in 2019. Details haven’t been released yet so stay tuned, and if you have an interest in going then drop me a line at president@niseiskiclub.org.

March NSC Weekend Ski Trip

Karen Soo, our trip director, is planning on a car-pool effort for a weekend of skiing at Tahoe on 17-18 March. Look for details in the newsletter.

Board Nominations

Now that it’s March it’s time to think about Board Nominations for the 2018-19 season. 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 are fairly informal and afterwards we usually go out for lunch and talk about skiing or upcoming club events.

Newsletter Editor

Are you interested in providing a valuable service to the club? A service that keeps the membership apprised of current events and interesting articles? Ever wanted to try out your journalistic side? If so, then the NSC Board would like to have you as our next Newsletter Editor. Judy Hom, our current Newsletter Editor, would like to pass the proverbial golden pen to a new newsletter editor. Judy has been a great editor for the last three years but has now indicated that it’s time to pass the baton and would be willing to train the next editor. If you’re interested then contact Judy at newsletter@niseiskiclub.org or any of the board members.

Judy Hom

I love the potlucks on the NSC weeklong trips. I especially love the potluck at the end of the week when people use up everything in their refrigerator. The dishes are amazingly creative. There’s no point in throwing food away or bringing it home.

Here’s a recipe for turkey lettuce cups made by Amy Tsuhako using condiments packets from the ski resort eateries. This is a good way to use those packets that find their way into your pockets during lunch time. She made this dish on the Park City trip a couple of years ago. It was delicious.

Turkey Lettuce Cups

Ingredients

Note: packets = ski resort sized condiment packets!
• 3/4 lb Ground turkey
• 1/2 bunch cilantro chopped
• 1 onion diced
• 2 scallions chopped
• 2 packets soy sauce
• 1/2 t granulated garlic
• 1/2 t powdered ginger
• 1/2 t pepper
• 1 t sugar
• 2 T teriyaki sauce

Directions

Stir fry turkey until no longer pink. Add onions and seasonings and stir fry until onions are soft. Then add cilantro and scallions and stir fry until turkey is a bit browned. Serve on platter with side of washed lettuce leaves and sauce.

Sauce:
• 1 heaping Tablespoon peanut butter
• 1 packet soy sauce
• 2 packets honey
• 1 packet Tabasco sauce
• 1 T lemon juice
• 2 T water

Mix and microwave 15 seconds to smooth out the peanut butter.

Armand Gutierrez, President

Happy Chinese New Year!

Welcome to the Chinese New Year of the Earth Dog! Yes, the Chinese New Year starts on Friday, February 16th. If you’re a dog owner then you know the trials and tribulations of raising a puppy and witness as it matures to become more devoted to its owner. Mature dogs have the innate ability to care and protect their family, and if you were born under the sign of the Earth Dog then you carry those attributes as a social worker, parent, teacher, nurse or doctor. Do you know anyone in the club that fits the characteristics of the Earth Dog?

Why Bear Boxes in Tahoe?

If you’ve spent any time at Tahoe I’m sure you have seen the bear boxes that cabin owners use for disposing of their trash. These bear boxes present a formidable challenge for the bears as they mosey around the neighborhood in search of snacks. This picture was taken at a cabin in Tahoe Vista that I used for my weekend ski trips.

Vail Ski Week 2018

Our recent ski week to Vail will probably be thought of as one with “Memorable Moments”. Well, maybe not “memorable” in a good way, because on the first day the second bus from DIA to Vail was almost two hours late leaving Denver. And although the buses arrived on time for our departure, the buses could not park in front of Vail International Condominiums because it was snowing and they couldn’t make it up the driveway without slipping and sliding. Yes, it was our luck that it started snowing as we were leaving and that meant we had to carry the luggage about 50 yards to the buses. However, everything in-between worked out well – the Après Ski Party, the chaotic Potluck Dinner, the Farewell Dinner, and skiing under sunny-to-partly cloudy skies. Unfortunately, Vail (and other Colorado resorts) is suffering the same symptoms as Tahoe – lack of snow. Although our hoped-for powder skiing didn’t materialize, there was enough coverage for everyone to enjoy themselves on the front-side trails, the back bowls, and Blue Sky Basin. Some runs were more challenging than others, but then, that’s what makes skiing an exciting sport. At the Farewell Dinner I mentioned two possibilities for next year: Big Sky and Telluride. For the 2018-19 season Telluride will be part of the Epic Pass resorts. If you have any suggestions then please let me know at president@niseiskiclub.org.

Sandy Kiyomura

Have you made resolutions for 2018? If you did, most likely it involves diet and exercise; things which could improve your health. For myself, I have to choose activities which are gentle on the joints. In addition, I like to work out in a group / social situation. Being with others motivates me. This is why I like Dragon Boat racing as a workout. You are on a boat with 20 fellow paddlers (two to a row). There is a person who steers in the back and a coxswain who coaches in the front of the boat. They provide tips on correct paddling technique and count your strokes.

Once you start paddling, you will feel a sense of exhilaration. Your muscles will be working hard but it is also fun. Someone said it is “controlled aggression”. You will be working your entire body, especially your core. You will be paddling somewhere near the San Francisco Bay.

Most clubs will allow you to attend several practices free. They will provide all necessary equipment for beginners, you just show up with paddle-ready clothes and dry change for afterwards. Clubs will welcome all levels of ability but if you find you want to go further in the sport, several Bay Area clubs have competed in the World Championships. There are also several less competitive races in the Bay Area.

Sound like fun? Contact Sandy Kiyomura and we can set up a practice with a Dragon boat team in the Bay Area.

Hoyt Nelson

It’s a game/adventure on wheels for a driver and navigator where the Rallyemaster directs you in your car through a neighborhood with a sheet of Route Instructions and a sheet of General Instructions (with higher authority) which may conflict with the route instructions. If you and catch the “gimmick” and take the correct route, you will see a Coursemarker with letters on it that will award you points.

As a simple example, a Route Instruction might say “L onto Cherry Lane”, and the street sign saying Cherry Lane in on the L. However, if the General Instructions said, “All signs used in this rallye will be on the R side of your progress”, then as far as the rallye is concerned, that street doesn’t exist. If you remember this, you would continue straight and see a coursemarker for points. The Coursemarker also tells you to delete the impossible instruction, turn around and go R onto Cherry. This puts you on Cherry whether you catch the gimmick or not (so nobody gets lost), but if you catch the gimmick, you get points for the CM.

The Rallye I have devised is the third in a series I have done for the club and this pre-run is estimated to take between 2.5 and 3 hours. It has more than 20 traps. I will hold a pre-run of this rallye on a Saturday morning sometime in late Feb or early March. Instead of putting up all coursemarkers on the route, participants will all ride in my vehicle and I will hold up the appropriate coursemarker when it would normally appear on the route. We will then discuss each gimmick together as it appears until everyone understands and agrees with the gimmick and its accuracy. (For the real rallye, we will put all coursemarkers up on the route.)

I can only take 6 people in my van, so if this sounds interesting and fun, sign up early at rallye@niseiskiclub.org so we can set a date. Please include which Saturdays are available to you. We will meet at my place in Campbell about 10am and should be done by 2pm. There will be an optional lunch afterward. The actual rallye will take place later in the year after ski season ends.

Judy Hom

Last month, Warren Miller passed away at the age of 93. Many of us started the ski season by watching a Warren Miller movie. It was a ritual. The movies were infectious. Seeing the fresh tracks and the spray of the powder made you want to go skiing/boarding tomorrow! Even if the skiers and boarders did things that we could only dream of, we wanted to go up to the snow.

I saw my first Warren Miller movie with the ski club. It was at the old Exploratorium near the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco. Before the movie started, they threw a big beach ball into the audience. It was a fun way to get you ready for a fun time.

Besides highlighting incredible skiers (see the trailer for Snowriders2), Warren Miller documented the goofy things that happen while skiing. I loved these spots because I could identify with them. Check out Chairlift – Funny Disasters on youtube.

Over his lifetime, Warren Miller directed over 55 movies. Thanks so much for inspiring us to ski and board. We’ll miss you.

“If you don’t do it this year, you will be one year older when you do.”

Judy Hom

I bought myself an Instant Pot and I just love this new cooking gadget. It’s really motivated me to try out new recipes.

Okay, I’ve been wanting to make pork adobo for a long time. Using the Instant Pot, I finally made it. It is delicious and easy to make. Here’s a link to Flo Lum’s youtube video. I think she looks a little like Amy Tsuhako — you tell me what you think.

Pork Adobo

• 5-6 lbs. baby back ribs
• 3/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons peppercorns
• 4 bay leaves
• 10 cloves garlic
• 1 cup water

Pressure cook for 15 minutes. Voila. Delicious pork adobo ready to serve!

During the Chinese New Year, you will hear people greeting one another with “Kung Hei Fat Choy” or “Gōngxǐ fācái”, which means wishing you happiness and prosperity. As little children, we were taught to greet our elders this way. In return, we would receive lucky money in red envelopes.

Other popular new year greetings are:

No matter how you say it, best wishes for the year of the dog.

Armand Gutierrez, President

November seemed so promising for a great ski season, and then one of the driest Decembers descended up on us. However, the Tahoe resorts have been making snow and there are plenty of runs to keep you busy. Of course, most of them are beginner and intermediates (no expert runs are open yet) but that’s better than nothing. If the challenging runs aren’t available then you can always work on style, technique, and just have fun on the slopes.

How High Can You Go?

Thanks to those that sent in guesses for the top five North American ski resorts that have the highest summit elevations. Unfortunately, no one guessed all five correctly, but a few were close. Here are the correct answers:

Top Five North American ski resorts with the highest elevations*:

• Silverton Mountain – 13,487
• Telluride – 13,150
• Arapahoe Basin – 13,050
• Loveland – 13,010
• Breckenridge – 12,998

Top Five North American ski resorts with the highest base elevations*:

• Loveland – 10,800
• Monarch Mountain – 10,790
• Arapahoe Basin – 10,780
• Copper – 10,500
• Silverton Mountain – 10,400

* Source: On The Snow Newsletter – 30 November 2017

Vail Ski Week 2018

The Vail trip is less than a month away and there is time to get in some skiing up at Tahoe before the trip. I’ve already made one trip to Northstar (two days) and will be going again right after New Years. The Vail Orientation meeting will be held on Saturday, January 13^th so mark your calendars. This will be an opportunity to meet other members on the trip, socialize a bit, and pick-up the souvenir gift. Evites have been sent out and if you didn’t receive an Evite then let me know at president@niseiskiclub.org.

Wishing all of our members a happy new year! Best wishes for a wonderful 2018.

Judy Hom, Editor
 
I thought I’d try something new in 2018. Hoyt Nelson asked me if there would be another NSC recipe book. My answer was no. The days of collecting and editing recipes into a book are long gone for this club. But, I told him that we could publish recipes online. After all, this club sure does love to cook and eat. Let me know what you think and feel free to send recipes to newsletter@niseiskiclub.org.
 
Hoyt shared his recipe for chile con carne. This sounds like the perfect apres ski meal and sure to warm you up after a hard day of skiing.

CHILI CON CARNE (feeds 8-10)

Hoyt Nelson

1 lb. or more ground beef (how lean is up to you, but I wouldn’t go more than 15% fat). Use the rough “chili” cut if available. It’s possible to substitute lean pork or chicken/turkey for burger.
1 30 oz. Can red kidney beans – cheaper than using 2 smaller cans. (I know, some people think beans aren’t authentic, but I’m sure the cowboy chefs threw in beans and whatever else was available to bulk up the meals while on the trail – including things better left un-said.)
1 30 oz. can crushed/diced tomatoes They can usually be found for about $1.35 at Smart & Final.
1 large onion diced up
1 t chili powder and maybe 1 T paprika while browning (last time I used mostly paprika and it was good)
1 t salt
1 t black pepper to taste
1 t sugar
As much garlic as you like (I dice up about 5 cloves or use 2T of puree)
2 T ground coriander while browning (an authentic and key Mexican ingredient) plus some whole seeds if desired.
Serve (optional) with some finely diced fresh onion and/or grated cheese or cilantro for topping.
 

Break up hamburger/other into bite sized chunks in a large frying pan.
Add diced onion and spices and mix in. It’s important to add spices before browning meat for better flavor.
Brown until brown (not grey) on all sides with paprika.
Add tomatoes and beans and simmer for at least 1 hour. Stir occasionally to keep from sticking on bottom.
Add grated cheese, cilantro or raw onion topping if desired when serving.
 
Note:
These are recipes I have made for years and have mostly made up or heavily modified from recipes from my Mom and others. Not all amounts are precise. I rarely use measuring devices. Feel free to use these recipes as just a suggestion. Add, subtract, substitute or change as desired.

Last NSC Recipe Book

The last NSC recipe book was created in 1998 as part of the club’s 40th anniversary. This was the third recipe book published by the club.

Armand Gutierrez, NSC President

The ski season has officially begun with numerous resorts opening during the Thanksgiving weekend thanks to a series of snowstorms to hit the Tahoe area. Of course, these resorts have limited lift operations and perhaps only 5% of open terrain. Northstar has the most lifts/runs in operation at the moment. The resort webcams are great for checking out snow conditions, along with the terrain and lift status. Let’s pray to the Snowgods for more snow in December.

Ride Sharing Service

Don’t forget about the NSC ride sharing service that was established several years ago. This service is for NSC members to facilitate getting to the slopes with other members. The service is called rideNSC and members can make a Post to the group to either Offer a ride-sharing opportunity or make a Request that you’re interested in joining with somebody that might be going skiing. For information contact Sandy Kiyomura skiyomura@gmail.com.

How High Can You Go?

What is the highest elevation that you have skied? Perhaps Breckenridge at 13K? Heavenly Valley at 10K? What about Granite Chief (Squaw Valley) around 9K? Well, those are just a few of the resorts that have skiing at high elevations. But, those are not the highest. Can you name the top five North American ski resorts that have the highest summit elevations? And your bonus question is: name the top five North American ski resorts that have the highest base elevation. There will be a free prize for correct entries.

Vail Ski Week 2018

The Vail trip is a month away and there is time to get in some skiing up at Tahoe before the trip. The Vail Orientation meeting will be held on Saturday, January 13^th so mark your calendars. This will be an opportunity to meet other members on the trip, socialize a bit, and pick-up the souvenir gift. An Evite will be sent out later in December. If you don’t receive an Evite then let me know at president@niseiskiclub.org. Also, Karen Soo is coordinating the potluck dinner and will be sending out an email listing your condo mates so you can get a head start on putting together your potluck menu.

Maybe Christmas, he thought doesn’t come from a store. Maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more. The Grinch

As part of BAC, NSC is included in discounts that BAC receives. BAC is a valued partner of Sierra at Tahoe and our members can get discounted lift tickets. Below are the details.

Program Details

• No out of pocket money
• Members can access and purchase discounted lift tickets from this link via computer/mobile device
• Tickets are purchased directly through the Sierra at Tahoe website via “promotional code”
• Discounts
  • $10 off Adult
  • $8 off Young Adult
  • $2 off Child
• Web link
  • http://bit.ly/sierraticket
• Promo Code
  • 1940

Valid from now until April 15, 2018

Link to flyer: BAC E-Tickets

Armand Gutierrez, NSC President

Seems like October was more summer-like than fall. Tahoe did experience some rainfall but all of the resorts are bare to the ground and it hasn’t been cold enough to fire up the snowmaking machines. Does this mean a late winter start? And the weather forecasters haven’t made up their collective minds on whether it’s going to be an El Niño or a La Niña year. Nobody guessed the ski resort in the photo, and the correct answer was Sierra-at-Tahoe.

Upcoming Events

SnowBomb Shows in October/November

At the end of October the Snow Bomb show was held at the Santa Clara Convention center. Although I was planning on attending I wasn’t able to make it due to a slight illness. Karen Soo and Curtis Otaguro usually attend the San Francisco event but Curtis was out of town and Karen was unable to attend.

Warren Miller Movie Night – November 11

Warren Miller is famous for his exciting ski/snowboard movies that take you all over the world in search of perfect snow conditions. Showtime is 6pm at the Heritage Theater (Campbell) on Saturday, November 11th.

Vail Ski Week 2018

The Vail trip is fully booked with 62 signups. Thanks to all that made their final payments on time, and to those of you that needed a reminder. Karen Soo is updating the sizing chart since the one on the signup page was for Marmot apparel and the new chart is for Port Authority. Not much difference but do check to see if you have any changes and reply to Karen’s email. There is a waiting list so do let me know in the event that you may have to cancel (hopefully not!).

Judy Hom, Newsletter Editor

My husband Winston pointed out an article in the San Jose Mercury News about defunct ski areas, which mentioned long gone resorts like Powder Bowl, Echo Summit, Edelweiss, Donner Ski Ranch, Tannenbaum, and Iron Mountain. He learned how to ski at Dodge Ridge and Echo Summit. Dodge Ridge is still operating but Echo Summit is long gone. How many of you remember these old resorts?

Organized ski racing in California started in the 1850s. Gold miners strapped 14-15 foot edgeless skis on their feet and raced for cash prizes. It is said that skiers reached speeds of 80+ miles per hours and carried a long pole to act as a brake.

Snowshoe Thompson was an early California long pole skier. Originally from Norway, he came to California during the 1850 gold rush. Between 1856-1876, he delivered mail twice a month between Placerville, California and Genoa, Nevada. He covered the distance in 5 days, 3 days up and 2 days down.

Olympic Hill was the first ski resort in Lake Tahoe and opened in 1924. It is still open but now named Granlibakken. I googled it and it is a very small hill with only 1 run and 2 lifts.

Sugar Bowl opened in 1939. Sugar Bowl got its name because the founder thought the snow looked like sugar. It was the first resort to use chairlifts.

There was a proliferation of ski resorts through the 1970s. 82 resorts opened from 1940-1950. 107 opened in the 1970s. The great California drought in the mid-1970’s took its toll and many resorts closed. Now, there are only about a dozen resorts in the Lake Tahoe area.

Resources

Mercury News – Defunct ski areas why healing is so hard
History of Skiing Lake Tahoe
History of California Skiing
Facebook – Lost Ski Areas and Ski History of California
Experience Skiing History in California Gold Country
Snowshoe Thompson

Happy Thanksgiving

Give thanks that the American system of checks and balances is holding. Remember that eternal vigilance is the price of liberty.

John F. Kennedy – We must find the time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives.

Armand Gutierrez, NSC President

To everyone’s surprise it snowed up in Tahoe and in numerous resorts in Colorado and Utah in September (the 21^st). Although the early snowfall only resulted in a slight dusting of that fine, white powder at least it’s a start for what hopefully will be a good winter season. If you’re a seasoned ski veteran then perhaps you can identify the ski resort in the picture (hint: it’s in California). Drop me a line (president@niseiskiclub.org) if you think you know the answer.

Upcoming Events

NSC Paint Night in San Jose – October 28

This event will be held on Saturday, October 28^th, at the Grill-em Steak House in Campbell. See the flyer for all the details.

SnowBomb Shows in October/November

Coming up in October and November are the annual SnowBomb ski shows in Santa Clara (used to be San Jose) and San Francisco. I usually attend the San Jose event and Karen Soo and Curtis Otaguro attend the San Francisco event. We’re looking for additional volunteers to support the BAC booth at both locations. As a volunteer you get free admission to the SnowBomb event, talk with people about the various clubs that are part of BAC, and do some self-promoting of NSC. Arrive early, or stay later, and visit the other ski-related booths or perhaps pick up something at one of the retail booths that have discounted prices on ski gear. The Santa Clara event is October 28-29 and the San Francisco event is November 4-5.  If interested then drop me a line (president@niseiskiclub.org) or Karen Soo (tripdirector@niseskiclub.org).

Warren Miller Movie Night – November 11

Warren Miller is well-noted for his exciting ski/snowboard movies that take you all over the world in search of perfect snow conditions. Showtime is 6pm at the Heritage Theater (Campbell) on Saturday, November 11^th.

Vail Ski Week 2018

The Vail trip is moving along smoothly and we currently have 55 signups (out of 64). If you haven’t made your 2^nd payment then go find your checkbook and send it in, plus your final payment. If you’re still sitting on the fence about going and haven’t signed up now is the time to do so. Deadline for signups is October 10^th, which is also when the final payment is due.

CMH (“Canadian Mountain Heli-Skiing”) is holding its annual preseason heli-ski celebration in San Francisco and Menlo Park. In attendance at both events will be CMH Guide Brodie Smith from the Bobbie Burns Lodge as well as past guests, like-minded powder hounds and big mountain lovers. The evening will include ski film stoke and a chance to win a free heli-skiing trip.

CMH’s Signature Annual Event in San Francisco

When: Thursday, October 12th, 2017 6-8pm
Where: Begerac
316 11th Street, San Francisco
Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be served
Space is limited –- please RSVP here or directly to Anne.

CMH in Menlo Park for the First Time!

When: Wednesday, October 11th, 2017 6-8pm
Where:Dutch Goose
3567 Alameda de las Pulgas, Menlo Park
Beer and appetizers will be served
Space is limited — please RSVP directly to Anne.

Just a reminder if you’ve skied with CMH in the past: any friends you bring to either event who book a trip any time in the future will earn you credit for your next trip. Feel free to forward the invite!
I hope to see you in October!

Anne A. Trott
CMH Heli-skiing and Summer Adventures
Regional Sales Rep, California
T: 484-802-0664 | E: atrott@cmh-rep.com
#cmhheli| cmhski.com | cmhsum mer.com
217 Bear St; Box 1660; Banff, AB; T1l 1J6

Paint Nite takes place at the Grill ‘Em Steakhouse in Campbell. The cost from Groupon is $25 per person versus $45 without a Groupon. The ticket price includes the supplies needed to paint your masterpiece. No food or beverages are included.

If you are interested, please contact Karen Soo (tripdirector@niseiskiclub.org). Please RSVP by Saturday, October 21 to reserve your spot.

Link to flyer: NSC Paint Nite in San Jose

Karen Soo

Nineteen NSC members and friends met on a beautiful Sunday morning at the Emeryville Marina parking lot where we rode the Bay Bridge Pedestrian Bike trail. To many, it was their first-time riding across the Eastern span of the Bay Bridge to Yerba Buena Island and Treasure Island.

We departed from the parking around 10:30am and as soon as we got on to Powell Street, one person had a flat tire. Curtis O took the liberty to ride as the sweeper and took time to see what was the problem. Apparently, there was a slow leak in the tire and within10 minutes, we were ready to roll again.

We rode through Bay Street and enter the bay trail where we started the slow climb on to the bridge. The faster riders led the pack and others on their mountain bikes took their time.

The weather was beautiful with blue skies and sunshine. There was a nice cool breeze in the air. You can tell that Fall was just around the corner.

We took a few group pictures along the way and regrouped at Yerba Buena Island. There were 2 options to Treasure Island. Either ride down hill on a single car lane or take the free shuttle van that can take up to 10 riders and their bikes. Safety First…

We gathered for more group pictures and admired the San Francisco skyline from where we were standing. We continued riding with views of the city and a lot of abandon buildings.

By the time we finished our ride, it was time for lunch. We found a nice spot facing the San Francisco skyline. Everyone wolfed down their trip tip sandwiches. Our part time vegetarian NSC member, Jim T was treated to a grill vegetable sandwich. Food was provided by Taste Soo Good Catering.

People ate their lunch while talking to fellow riders and enjoyed the good weather and the view.

After eating lunch, it was time to go back and people had the option to ride up the hill or take the shuttle back. Riding back on the bridge was easier. Mostly it was coasting all the way back downhill.

We all met back at the parking lot, where we had drinks and snacks. A big thank to those who brought snacks to share.

One minor mishap: David T had 2 flat tires on the same tire. We were only 2 miles from the parking lot. It was Amy to the rescue. She road back to get the car to pick up her man. GO AMY.

We rode about 15 -17 miles. It’s a short ride but it was a beautiful day to be outside to enjoy the view. By the way, the rider with the slow lead tire made it back also.

Giving rules of the road
	Riding through Treasure Island
Free shuttle van	View of the Bay Bridge heading west
Lunch time
Flat tire
Group shot on Treasure Island

Armand Gutierrez, NSC President

It’s September and it’s been HOT these past few weeks. But despite the heat your focus should be on the upcoming ski/snowboard season. Why? Because it’s just around the corner and the next thing you know it will be time to trek up to Tahoe to get your first days of skiing in, possibly in November and hopefully in December. There are quite a few September events coming up so take a look at them and decide which ones you want to attend. Since I’m not a bicyclist or painter there is really only one for me to choose.

Upcoming Events

California Ski Company September Offers

Did you know that California Ski Company in Berkeley has NSC members as employees? And they have a reputation as being the best boot-fitters in the state. Looking for new gear? This month they’re having discounts on 2016/2017 snow gear in their massive parking lot sale. Go to their website (http://www.californiaskicompany.com/index.html), click on “coupons” and snag some coupons for a free pre-season wax. Yes, I know it’s only September but now is the time to start getting ready for the upcoming ski/snowboard season.

September Pizza Social – September 10

This event has been canceled due to a lack of sign-ups

It’s FOOTBALL Season and let the games begin! Our September Pizza Social will be on Sunday, September 10th at The Garret (Campbell) so we can gather around, quaff a few ales, dine on outstanding pizza, and watch the New York Giants and the Dallas Cowboys battle it out on the turf. Game time starts at 5:30pm but you can arrive later if you’re stuck in traffic. If you’re planning on attending then please respond to the Evite that has been sent out. And yes, el presidente is buying the beer.

NSC Bay Bridge Bike Ride – September 17

Due to construction at the Bay Bridge there have been some changes to the NSC Bike Ride. I won’t say “Bay Bridge Bike Ride” because that route might get changed if the Bay Bridge construction isn’t completed by the scheduled 16th date. With that in mind, check out the flyer for the latest dates and Karen Soo and Sandy Kiyomura will keep you informed of the latest changes.

NSC Paint Night in San Jose – October 7/8 or October 14/15

This event is still scheduled for October but the dates have yet to be confirmed. Karen Soo is back from vacation and will be finalizing the dates. Stay tuned.

SnowBomb Shows in October/November

Coming up in October and November are the annual SnowBomb ski shows in Santa Clara (used to be San Jose) and San Francisco. I usually attend the San Jose event and Karen Soo and Curtis Otaguro attend the San Francisco event. We’re looking for additional volunteers to support the BAC booth at both locations. As a volunteer you get free admission to the SnowBomb event, talk with people about the various clubs that are part of BAC, and do some self-promoting of NSC. Arrive early, or stay later, and visit the other ski-related booths or perhaps pick up something at one of the retail booths that have discounted prices on ski gear. The Santa Clara event is October 28-29 and the San Francisco event is November 4-5. If interested then drop me a line (president@niseiskiclug.org) or Karen Soo (tripdirector@niseiskiclub.org).

Vail Ski Week 2018

The Vail trip is moving along smoothly and we currently have 44 signups (out of 64). Thanks to all of those that made their 2nd payment on time (August 10th). If you haven’t made your 2nd payment then go find your checkbook and send it in. Still deciding to signup for Vail? What’s to decide? Everyone knows that Vail is a world-class resort with plenty of great skiing, shopping, and dining. If you’re not yet signed up then take a look at the flyer and make that all-important decision to be on this trip, and you can get the Tahoe Local Pass through Sports America (http://www.sportsamerica.com/epic-nisei), which will be good for five days skiing at Vail, plus skiing at Northstar, Heavenly Valley, and Kirkwood, and a 6% discount on the Epic Pass (~$31) if you sign up for the Vail trip.

Judy Hom, Newsletter Editor

Did you watch the solar eclipse on August 21? Everybody in my office did. For awhile, all work stopped while we watched this extraordinary event.

It wasn’t Oregon where they experienced totality but it was still fun to watch it in the Bay Area despite the cloud cover. I used a welder’s helmet (courtesy of my husband) so I could safely watch the moon eclipse the sun.

For information about the solar eclipse that we just experienced, visit the NASA website: https://eclipse2017.nasa.gov/eclipse-who-what-where-when-and-how. The next solar eclipse will occur April 8, 2024.