by Christie Tasaka Dews, New NSC Member
After meeting Jeanne while standing in line for the Nisei Matsuri Festival—what I consider a very fortuitous encounter—she invited me to the Nisei Ski Club Potluck. This gathering was my very first NSC event, and what a wonderful introduction to the club and its community. From the moment I arrived everyone was kind and welcoming, eager to include newcomers. There was an abundance of great food and I had the opportunity to learn how to play mahjong—many thanks to Greg and Judy for their patience—followed by a lively round of Mexican Train Dominos for good measure.
I was impressed by the variety of trips and events already planned, as well as those currently in the works. Hearing members share stories from past outings and talk excitedly about upcoming adventures made me eager to be part of future excursions. I am excited about the non-winter activities organized. I enjoy things that can be done in a single day—short attention span? Possibly!
Who knows–I might even convince some new friends to try an escape room! While I cannot promise I will be a master at escaping, I am 100% curious and can already imagine the mysteries to be solved. Either way, fun was definitely had by all. I truly enjoyed myself and look forward to continuing to have fun, meet new people, and make new friends while getting to know my new surroundings in the Bay Area.
I stayed longer than expected and left feeling grateful for that serendipitous encounter with Jeanne outside the SJBC Betsuin. I find myself inspired to buy a mahjong set like Judy’s so I can teach my girls to play, lucky to have discovered such a welcoming group and smiling as I wonder what is yet to come.
Yes—I am joining the NSC!
Happy New Year!
Here’s a slide show of the pot luck party.


























