Terry Chea, Author at The Rapid City Post

People play mahjong at an event organized by the YLL Mahjong Club on Friday, Aug. 15, 2025, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Terry Chea)

Mahjong nights draw young crowds to San Francisco bars and restaurants

September 5, 2025

Ryan Lee has turned his love of mahjong into a thriving social scene in San Francisco. After getting hooked on the classic Chinese tile game two years ago, he started hosting mahjong nights in his apartment. These gatherings grew into the YLL Mahjong Club, which now hosts bimonthly events with up to 200 guests. The club attracts a diverse crowd with its nightclub atmosphere, live DJs and custom cocktails. Mahjong is gaining popularity as people desire more opportunities to socialize offline. Eventbrite reports a 179% increase in U.S. mahjong events from 2023 to 2024. Lee plans to expand the club to other U.S. cities.

Braxton Kimura eats at Vitality Bowl on Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, in San Jose, Calif. (AP Photo/Terry Chea)

California bill would require restaurants to disclose food allergens on menus

August 22, 2025

California could become the first U.S. state to require restaurants to disclose common food allergens in each menu item under legislation being considered by state lawmakers. Backers say the measure would protect the growing number of Americans who are severely allergic to foods such as peanuts, eggs and milk. But the restaurant industry says the law would add new burdens and costs on restaurants that are already struggling with tariffs, rising food prices, labor shortages and skittish consumers.

A giant troll sculpture created by the Danish recycle artist Thomas Dambo and his team that's part of an installation of six sculptures called "Trolls Save the Humans" is seen on display at the historic estate Filoli, Saturday, July 5, 2025, in Woodside, Calif. (AP Photo/Terry Chea)

Giant trolls have a message for humans about protecting the planet

July 23, 2025

Danish artist Thomas Dambo creates giant wooden trolls from recycled materials to promote environmental awareness. Over 12 years, Dambo and his team have built 170 trolls in more than 20 countries and 21 U.S. states. These sculptures, some up to 40 feet tall, are made from discarded items like wooden pallets and old furniture. An installation of six trolls, called “Trolls Save the Humans,” is currently on display at Filoli, a historic estate near San Francisco. Dambo says the trolls aim to teach humans how to live sustainably. Dambo said his global project attracts millions of visitors annually, highlighting the value of recycling.

Terry Chea.

Mahjong nights draw young crowds to San Francisco bars and restaurants

California bill would require restaurants to disclose food allergens on menus

Giant trolls have a message for humans about protecting the planet

Finance.