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THE BIG SIR COLUMN Ladies Day Luncheon is just around the corner and again it’s a sellout and I would like to take this opportunity to pass on our thanks for the great job Jack Waddell has done over the past years as Chairman. Jack is turning over the reins to his successor, Nat Bitton, after the June luncheon whom I’d also like to thank for stepping up to take on this position. The success of our Ladies Day Luncheons can’t be done by one person and Jack has had the great support of his committee members and their wives, Tom and Rosemary Click, Paul and Elaine Laderer, Paul and Millie Hersch and Ed and Henny Dijkman. It is my understanding that most of the committee members will be staying on to help Nat with the transition and that Jack will always be available as an advisor. Thanks again to everyone as it’s you’re volunteering to help out on committees that make Branch 8 the great success it is. Now, don’t forget that our July luncheon will be “Bring a guest and get a bottle of wine” month so start lining up those guests. As a plus your guest gets $10 off his lunch. Now where else can you get a deal like that? See you the Ladies Day Luncheon, Darryl THE LITTLE SIR SEZ We had a last second speaker cancellation a few days before our May luncheon. Fortunately, our speaker committee had prepared a list of potential replacements. The Bay Area Rapid Transit people graciously volunteered to help us out. Our speaker was Joel Keller who served as President and now on the Board of Directors for BART. He also served as Mayor for the City of Antioch for three terms and a number of public service responsibilities. Mr. Keller did a great job of updating us all on the state of BART and five year Capital Plan. We often forget this system is 44 years old and the ridership has gone from 170,000 passengers per week to 430,000 passengers per day in 2016. The time has finally come for a major overhaul. This will include a new generation of train cars giving us more comfort and function for the next 50 years. Also, renewing the system’s critical infrastructure will keep BART trains in service and running on time. As usual, we had some “spirited” questions for Mr. Keller from our SIR audience. In turn, he did a great job with good direct answers on a variety of subjects. The next scheduled luncheon speaker at the Hilton in July will be Rosemary Robles. She is the Department of Motor Vehicles Senior Driver Ombudsman. Most of our SIR drivers feel we still have the same driving alertness and reaction time as in our younger years. I’m sure she will give us some helpful hints to keep us safe. Mike Long, Little SIR HOTLINE Index © = Spouses/Friends welcome Activity Page # General Branch Business 1-5 Branch Positions 28-29 Activity Chair Bios 21-22 Activity Report 6 Annual Barbeque © 6-7 Arts, Crafts & Hobbies 7 Astronomy 7 Bargain Bites © 8 Birders © 8-9 Birthdays 23 Bocce ball (All) © 7-8 Book Exchange 9 Book Group 9 Bowling © 9-10 Bridge (All) 10-11 Car Enthusiasts 11 Computers and Tech © 11-12 Cribbage 12 Darts and Pool 17 Digital Photography 12 Dine In (All) © 16 Dine Out (All) © 17 Dine Out Single SIRs 18 Dominoes (All) 12-13 Explore & Eat © 13 Fishing 13 Genealogy 14 Golf (All) 14-15 Heads Up Walkers © 15 Hikers © 16 Ladies Day Lunch © 16 Luncheon Menu 5 Membership Report 23 Model Railroading 18 Picture Gallery 24-25 Poker 17 Senior Center Activities 18 SIRS at the Games 18 SIRS in the Garden © 19 SIRS in the Kitchen 19 Sums In Retirement 20 Sunshine Report 5 Traveling SIRS © 19 Wine Articles (All) 20-21 Writing Your Life Story 19 June 2016 June HOTLINE Editor: Jim Ripley Next Regular SIR Luncheon in July Ladies day luncheon June 13, 2016 Social Hour 10:45 Round Hill Country Club Alamo Want to be in a parade? See page 2

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Page 1: June 2016 - Branch 8sirbr8.com/wp-content/uploads/Hotline/201606Hotline1col.pdf · Ladies Day Luncheon is just around the corner and again it’s a sellout and I ... The “Legacy

THE BIG SIR COLUMN

Ladies Day Luncheon is just around the corner and again it’s a sellout and I

would like to take this opportunity to pass on our thanks for the great job Jack

Waddell has done over the past years as Chairman. Jack is turning over the

reins to his successor, Nat Bitton, after the June luncheon whom I’d also like to

thank for stepping up to take on this position. The success of our Ladies Day

Luncheons can’t be done by one person and Jack has had the great support of

his committee members and their wives, Tom and Rosemary Click, Paul and

Elaine Laderer, Paul and Millie Hersch and Ed and Henny Dijkman. It is my

understanding that most of the committee members will be staying on to help Nat with the

transition and that Jack will always be available as an advisor. Thanks again to everyone as it’s

you’re volunteering to help out on committees that make Branch 8 the great success it is.

Now, don’t forget that our July luncheon will be “Bring a guest and get a bottle of wine” month so

start lining up those guests. As a plus your guest gets $10 off his lunch. Now where else can you

get a deal like that?

See you the Ladies Day Luncheon,

Darryl

THE LITTLE SIR SEZ

We had a last second speaker cancellation a few days before our May

luncheon. Fortunately, our speaker committee had prepared a list of potential

replacements. The Bay Area Rapid Transit people graciously volunteered to

help us out.

Our speaker was Joel Keller who served as President and now on the Board of

Directors for BART. He also served as Mayor for the City of Antioch for three

terms and a number of public service responsibilities.

Mr. Keller did a great job of updating us all on the state of BART and five year Capital Plan. We

often forget this system is 44 years old and the ridership has gone from 170,000 passengers per

week to 430,000 passengers per day in 2016. The time has finally come for a major overhaul.

This will include a new generation of train cars giving us more comfort and function for the next 50

years. Also, renewing the system’s critical infrastructure will keep BART trains in service and

running on time.

As usual, we had some “spirited” questions for Mr. Keller from our SIR audience. In turn, he did a

great job with good direct answers on a variety of subjects. The next scheduled luncheon speaker

at the Hilton in July will be Rosemary Robles. She is the Department of Motor Vehicles Senior

Driver Ombudsman. Most of our SIR drivers feel we still have the same driving alertness and

reaction time as in our younger years. I’m sure she will give us some helpful hints to keep us

safe.

Mike Long, Little SIR

HOTLINE Index

© = Spouses/Friends welcome

Activity Page #

General Branch

Business

1-5

Branch Positions 28-29

Activity Chair Bios 21-22

Activity Report 6

Annual Barbeque © 6-7

Arts, Crafts & Hobbies 7

Astronomy 7

Bargain Bites © 8

Birders © 8-9

Birthdays 23

Bocce ball (All) © 7-8

Book Exchange 9

Book Group 9

Bowling © 9-10

Bridge (All) 10-11

Car Enthusiasts 11

Computers and Tech © 11-12

Cribbage 12

Darts and Pool 17

Digital Photography 12

Dine In (All) © 16

Dine Out (All) © 17

Dine Out Single SIRs 18

Dominoes (All) 12-13

Explore & Eat © 13

Fishing 13

Genealogy 14

Golf (All) 14-15

Heads Up Walkers © 15

Hikers © 16

Ladies Day Lunch © 16

Luncheon Menu 5

Membership Report 23

Model Railroading 18

Picture Gallery 24-25

Poker 17

Senior Center Activities 18

SIRS at the Games 18

SIRS in the Garden © 19

SIRS in the Kitchen 19

Sums In Retirement 20

Sunshine Report 5

Traveling SIRS © 19

Wine Articles (All) 20-21

Writing Your Life Story 19

June 2016

June HOTLINE Editor: Jim Ripley

Next Regular SIR Luncheon in July Ladies day luncheon June 13, 2016 Social Hour 10:45

Round Hill Country Club Alamo

Want to be in a

parade?

See page 2

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MEMBERS RELATIONS COMMITTEE

Continuing the process, I started three months ago, when I explained what the, Member Relations Committee is tasked to do; there

were nine (9) tasks as described in April’s Hotline column. The third subject, for this month, is:

Ensure new members are effectively integrated into the Branch. The first step is, #1, the all-important three Year Survey! When you

read this, it will have been completed, analyzed, and, possibly, distributed. The Survey was designed and produced by former Big Sir

Derek Southern, a tireless branch volunteer. As Committee Chief responsible; former Big Sir Jim Sowell and MRC’s crack volunteer

group, solicit member feedback vigorously: Luncheon Table Comment Cards, fast clear and noted, a direct route to BEC & discussed

at each meeting. The “Legacy of one” Program administered by former Big Sir Ron Smith and SIR Richard Bal, both experienced and

perceptive volunteers, explain this important concept to members marking a 6th month with us. Applicant Orientation, an important

function carried out amicably by dedicated volunteers; former Big Sir, SIR Dave Perkins and SIR Mike Anderson. All information given,

to the BEC with MRC recommendations, is discussed, and improvement changes are implemented. You wonder why the word

“volunteer” is mentioned so often? Without their efforts, these men, some have risen to the top of our humble ladder, still volunteer

eventhough, entitled to “relax and have lunch,” they continue to give time and effort to the branch. They pay it back while they pay

forward! If you ask why, they may say “it’s because I like the branch,” “I made friends” “so many activities” Some may even say, “I

want to do what I can, to keep it going!” I say, volunteering is something to try, we can always use “a few good men!”

Tony de Losada, Member Relations Committee Chairman

SIR COMMUNITY OUTREACH COMMITTEE (SCOC)

We are currently scheduled for two Farmers Market Informational Community Outreach Activities in Walnut Creek: Sunday June 26th.

and Sunday August 28th

.

Please contact me or SCOC members Darryl Sweetland BS 8 16 <[email protected]>;

'Michael Long' <[email protected]>;

Richard Cheney <[email protected]>;

Dick Brooks <[email protected]>;

Alan Fahrenkrog <[email protected]>;

Tom Mohrman [email protected]

and send us names and/or, e-mail addresses of your former employer contacts: of Corporations, institutions, public and private, if you

know they might have pre-retirement coaching or if you know the names of the HR department Heads, we would like to meet with

them tell them about SIR, and ask them if they will allow us to talk to their retiree groups about the social benefits of being a SIR. If

you think you may be able to help us with information, please contact any committee person!

YOUR BRANCH NEEDS A FEW GOOD MEN!

The 4th

of July celebration involves Fireworks, Parades, Park Concerts, Hot Dogs, Beer and Bar- B- Q’s... did I say Parade? I love a

Parade. How many of you do? This message is designed to appeal to those of you who might want to join in and represent Branch 8

by joining the 4th

of July parade in The City of Concord. We’ll carry a banner and distribute brochures, your business cards,

$10.00 off Luncheon tickets (if possible) and a few DVD’s!

It’s a wonderful time and opportunity to show the public how much fun it is to be a SIR, wear our logoed, Baseball Caps and Golf

Shirts and wave to the crowd. There is not much to do, except to say hello to the crowd and smile! We need five good men! How

about it? 4th

of July, Mount Diablo High to Willow Pass Road -around Todos Santos Park and loop back to the High School. Event

Start Time and duration will be noted when I receive the information. Contact any SCOC member to say yes!

We work for the vitality of the Branch.

Tony de Losada

COMMENT CARD CORNER

Analysis of Comment Cards from May 9, 2016, SIR Branch 8 Lunch Meeting.

There were 11 cards turned in by one guest, nine members and two unidentified attendees. The guest and one member were

“Impressed”, one member was “Satisfied”, two members were “A bit annoyed”, and five members and two unidentified attendees gave

no attitudes.

Food was the main topic with six comments about the lack of or gristly meat in the stroganoff and its bland flavor. The meal was

skimpy or entree servings were too large.. Salads and desserts are menu highlights. The bartender set up around 11:00 AM and

service was slow. (A server said they were short a server.)

The speaker got good marks from two, but one thought the BART topic was too political with a bond issue on the November ballot.

Speakers should repeat the questions or we should circulate a portable mike (or two).

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The pacing of the meeting is good with brief business discussion. In another view, new-member introductions were too short while

others thought the activity descriptions were too long.

The guest thought we were a big, friendly, outgoing group.

One member finds the blue comment cards too dark to read easily.

The most interesting comment was that it is hard to find a seat even as early as 10:20 AM because one person will collect a number

of place cards and reserve seats for multiple friends. Badge box staffers say that happens only for five to ten place cards each month.

SinSIRly, Jim Sowell

HELP WANTED

Hotline Editor:

There is an opening for a Hotline editor. We are looking for someone with some Microsoft Word expertise. We will hold your hand (or

not) as you learn how to cobble up the monthly Hotline. You will be responsible for only two or three Hotlines per year. Contact the

Hotline Coordinator, Dan Weller, at [email protected].

TREASURERS REPORT

April 2016

Receipts

Monthly luncheon $6,395.00

Other 21.00

Dues 37.50

Interest 0.19

Total receipts 6453.69

Disbursements

Printing & supplies 132.32

Other 28.00

Monthly luncheon 7,386.95

Total disbursements 7,547.27

Net loss (1,093.58)

Cash, beginning 19,780.80

Cash, ending $18,687.22

Ron Cassano, Treasurer

RECRUITMENT

Free Wine and $10 Off

There's no luncheon meeting in June, but July's meeting brings back our popular “Bring a guest; get a bottle” promotion. Any member

bringing a first time guest gets a free bottle of wine from the private cellars of Casa Benson. AND, the July guest gets to eat for only

$15; that's a savings of ten bucks! So dust off those Sir Cards and get out hustling for first time guests.

The “I've done my part” promotion is rolling along, and through May we've given our members 34 bottles of wine and distinctive name

badge holders. Big Sir Darryl brought in his fourth member and leads for the sweepstakes prize to be awarded in November.

Remember that's either a case of wine or a $75 gift certificate at the restaurant of his choice (but he better consult with Barbara).

Former Big Sir Stan Johnson is in second place with three members.

Three other members were initiated into the club. They were Ron Cassano, Terry Mason and Leary Wong. Good work guys.

Remember, get out recruiting, and you can fill your wine cellar too.

Ed Benson, Recruiting Chairman

FREE LUNCH DRAWING FOR BRINGING GUESTS

As an incentive to bring in new candidates for membership, a drawing for a free lunch will be held in January and in July for members

who bring guests to meetings during the previous six months. You can use the SIR cards available at the check-in table to invite

guests.

For each new guest sponsored during the six month period, a member will have an entry in the drawing. Bring one new guest, have

one chance. Bring 3 new guests, have 3 chances! And for your efforts, you do not have to be present to win.

NEED A RIDE?

Those Sirs who do not have transportation and would like a ride to the monthly luncheon are invited to call:

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Scott Graff 552-6097 [email protected]

RED DOT BADGES

They belong to our new members; don’t forget to say “Hi” and introduce yourself. So let’s make them feel at home and let them feel they can talk about your SIR activities and ask them to join you.

ATTENDANCE Attendance for the May luncheon

Active Members:

Membership Prior to Luncheon 334

Members Inducted 4

Excused Absences - 67

Unexcused Absences - 7

Members Attending 264

Others:

Visitors - Guests - Speakers 13

Others Attending 13

TOTAL ATTENDANCE 277

Visitors

Karen Basting Bar Area Rapid Transit

Luna Salaver Bar Area Rapid Transit

Guest Sponsor

Dan Cassidy Ernie Davis

Bill DeSmet Arnie Knipp

Bob Fieber Howard Meadow

Jim Gillivan Gene Thaning

Terry Harris Jim Regan

Rich Pace Ed Benson

Bob Payne John Sutton

Richard Remley David Bushnell

Hal Tatro Ernie Davis

Stan Wong Carl Moyer

Speaker

Joel Keller Bar Area Rapid Transit

Bill Peterson, Attendance Secretary

E-MAIL FOR ABSENCES & TO CONFIRM GUESTS

Emails sent to [email protected] for excused absences will be confirmed with a ‘Reply’ it was received. Messages sent to personal email accounts will not be answered.

If a ‘Reply’ confirming receipt of the email is not received, it is the member’s responsibility to follow up and ensure it was sent to the correct address. Either resend the email or call the attendance number at 925-901-4826 by Thursday noon prior to the meeting.

Please note: calls to the telephone number will not be automatically returned since the greeting message confirms the correct number was reached.

Please bring a guest, but if you want to be sure your guest has a place to sit and gets a meal, you need to do the following:

Call the Attendance Secretary, Bill Peterson, on the attendance hotline: 925-901-4826 or by e-mail [email protected] on Thursday before the meeting, then Bill can adjust his count for the caterer.

Bill Peterson, Attendance Secretary

LUNCHEON MENU FOR JUNE

Ladies Day Luncheon

Round Hill Country Club

Grilled Salmon

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or Chicken Piccata

or Roasted Vegetable Ravioli

SPECIAL MEAL OPTION

We will do our best to provide a special meal (or no meal) to those who cannot eat the regular monthly entrées served at the

luncheons. This is not intended to be a choice made each month simply as an alternative to the regular menu but to accommodate a

member’s needs on a permanent basis or for a temporary situation. Please call to discuss your particular requirements.

Bill Peterson, Attendance Secretary 925-676-5295

LEGAL NOTICE

This notice is available in the Roster and on the web site.

SUNSHINE REPORT

Since the last submitted Hotline Report the Committee has extended wishes for a rapid recovery to Bob McIvor, to Wally Lamboy's

wife, Inge, to Jim Gay, to Harry Hubinger, and to Stewart Patrick. The Committee also extended condolences to Bob Sherman on the

death of his son.

Sunshine Committee [email protected]

Lawrence J. Mersmann [email protected]

925-935-9124

NEW SUNSHINE NOTIFICATION PROCEDURE

Presented by Bob Barnes as Membership Secretary on April 11, 2016. and Approved by BEC on that date and concurred by

Sunshine Chairman (Larry Mersmann)

Regulation 16. - Death of a Member or Spouse/Partner

Sunshine Chairman will:

1. Select an appropriate sympathy card.

2. Sign the card from:

a. SIR Branch 8

b. Sunshine Chairman

c. With his name

3. Send the card to the Member or Spouse/Partner or Family

4. Notify the Branch Members that a sympathy card was mailed and of any pending services.

Regulation 17 - illness of a Member or Spouse/Partner the Sunshine Chairman will:

1. Select an appropriate get well card

2. Sign the card from:

a. SIR Branch 8

b. Sunshine Chairman

c. With his name

3. Send the card to the Member or the Spouse/Partner

4. Notify the Branch Members that a get well card was mailed

HOTLINE INPUT and WEB EDITORS

IMPORTANT – SINGLE HOTLINE EMAIL ADDRESS: [email protected].

Send your articles and photos BEFORE the 20th of the month. Include meeting information and dates for the following month to keep your group properly informed about meetings, deadlines and upcoming events. Late reports may not be included in the Hotline.

Hotline Editors (Hotline Coordinator *)

Dan Weller* [email protected]

Barry Brown [email protected]

Chuck Joyce [email protected]

Jim Ripley [email protected]

Website Editor, Webmaster, and Activities Page

Derek Southern [email protected] Asst. Website Editor

Bill Hunter [email protected]

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Please be brief, we will attempt to keep the articles worded as you wish them to be presented. Please place the Chairman and other contact information at the bottom. While formatting and type style is left to the discretion of the Hotline Editors, we will try to preserve your format “bolds” and underline. Please avoid complex boxes and having the whole article in “bold” or ALL UPPER CASE LETTERS. For sending text, a word document or just typing into the Email message works just fine. Please avoid copying and pasting text from websites as this can require retyping before it can be used.

To be sure your article is not missed, please put “hotline” “activity” and “month” into the Subject of your submittal Email Example: Hotline Activity - Poker for October.

We, your Editors and Webmasters, are here to serve you, and we need your very important input. For the Website, send input anytime, but expect some possible delay before input is added.

ACTIVITY REPORT

I think that activity leaders…the chairmen and assistant chairmen….have the most fun, rewarding jobs in Branch 8.

Sure, there’s work involved and it takes time to do the job well. The work actually isn’t that hard, mostly because we’re

using the skills accumulated over our working careers. And we all have a lot of life experience dealing with all kinds of

issues. We are, after all, a bunch of seniors who know how to make things happen. It shows up in the variety and

strength of our activities, as well as in the participation rates of our members.

Give it some thought. There are always opportunities to get involved in activity leadership. It’s rewarding and

satisfying. You just might enjoy it while adding to the life of the branch..

Phil Trapp, 648-4056, [email protected]

STATE SIR HAPPENINGS

A complete archive is now on the State website at http://sirinc.org/sirhappenings/pastissues.html. President Bob's front page column

"The Head Cheer Leader" is about his upbeat outlook on SIR and his positive suggestion on getting involved. He ends with "Be proud

to wear the hat, the shirt and in some cases, the SIR cowboy belt buckle."

Don MacGregor, Editor, SIR Happening

ACTIVITIES AT OTHER BRANCHES

Breakfast Call Philip Magen 256-6548

Bridge Lunch 2nd/4thTu Milt Greenstein 376-5589

Historical © Call Rich Sjoberg 254-1661

Stamps Call Rich Sjoberg 254-1661

Walkers © Each Tues Lyle Deck 254-3829

ANNUAL BRANCH 8 BARBEQUE ©

June 21 3:00 ‘Till Dusk

Limited sign-ups are still

available for the June BBQ

Concord Community Park

We are sold out with 152 Sirs and spouses/partners signed-up for the BBQ. However, drop outs are expected

between now and the event, so if you want to attend, please email Phil Trapp ([email protected]) or call him at

925-648-4056. He'll put you on the alternate list. Alternates are taken off the list in first come, first served order.

The event is again being held at Concord Community Park, located on Cowell Road in Concord and is equidistant between Treat and

Monument. Parking is plentiful and the walk is short and flat to our space between the tennis courts and the pool. Bring sunscreen, a

hat, a lawn chair and an appetite for good food, drink and company.

Payment of $25 per person was due June 5. There is no refund for cancellation after June 10; however, we will try to find a substitute

for you. If you haven’t paid, make a check payable to Phil Trapp and mail it to him as soon as possible at 4134 Quail Run Drive,

Danville, CA 94506.

Our caterer and fellow Branch 8 Sir Tom Borman and his crew will be serving BBQ’ed Kinder's ball tip, beans, potato and green

salads, coleslaw, rolls/butter and cookies. We furnish the chips, dips, veggies, nuts, water, diet Coke, 7Up, root beer, beer and

wine (sorry due to park alcohol regulations no hard liquor is allowed). All of this is included in the price. We will also be having last

year's hits, barbequed sausage and chicken wings as appetizers. If you prefer a different drink, feel free to bring your own.

The event starts at 3:00 p.m., dinner will be served around 5:00 p.m., and the event will end at dusk, or around 7:00’ish. Hopefully,

we will have a nice warm day.

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Ed, Tom, and I and all our helpers are looking forward to providing a day of fun, good food and lazy socializing.

Chairman: Phil Trapp, 648-4056, [email protected]

ARTS, CRAFTS & HOBBIES

DID YOUR HOBBIE RETIRE WHEN YOU DID “READ THIS ARTICLE-- IMPORTANT”

I know there are at least 100 of you out there who have a special talent or an interesting hobby or you collect things.

Don't be bashful! Share it with us. We all would really like to see your special art work, carving, sculpture, wood

turning, fishing lures, match book covers, travel memorabilia, photographs, silver spoons (even the one you were

born with in your mouth), baseballs, golf balls, or moth balls. Or maybe you do taxidermy, collect coins, make beer,

build toothpick castles, fly drones, have a model plane collection or something really unusual that we don't know

about.

All of us old guys like to see stuff and we appreciate people who collect or have a hidden talent or special skill. SHARE it with us. I'll

even buy you a glass of wine and it makes the meeting more interesting.

If you have a hobby, special interest collection, art of any form or a special skill, please consider sharing it with your fellow SIR. All it

takes is an hour before our monthly meeting and we'll help you get things set up and taken down. In the process you may find a new

friend who has your same interest and of course your fellow SIR will appreciate your time and effort. Give me a call or send an e-

mail.. Thanks in advance.

Ron Smith, Chairman [email protected] 925-314-3066

Al Steunenberg, Co-Chair [email protected] 820-2758

ASTRONOMY

There will not be a meeting in June due to the Ladies Day Luncheon.

Check out our Web page at www.sirbr8.com/astronomy which is updated frequently with new information, videos

and links relating to past and upcoming topics.

Bill Hunter, Chairman 947- 6947 [email protected]

Leary Wong, Asst. Chair 930-7024 [email protected]

BOCCE BALL OPEN PLAY ©

The 2016 Bocce Ball Open season is in session. We begin play at 8:30 am and play on the Bocce courts in Newhall

Park, Concord. Newhall Park is located on Turtle Creek Rd. between Treat Blvd. and Ayers Rd. Play is open to all

SIR members and partners. You do not require any knowledge of the game as we will show you how to play and

explain the rules that govern the game of Bocce Ball. We provide all the equipment (Bocce Balls and score boards).

I organize whoever comes to play into teams. If you have any questions, please call the Activity Chairman.

This is the status as of May 6.

Top % = > 2 Games

Name Branch Won Lost Gms Win %

Hawco, Martin 8 2 0 2 100

Keehn, Tom 8 2 0 2 100

Pixton, Ray 8 2 0 2 100

Notes: 1. We only play until 10:30 am and as a result some games may end early.

2. Whoever is ahead at 10:30 wins the game.

Chairman: Bob Barnes 686-0106 [email protected]

Assistant Chairman: Danny Rinaldi: 825-0519 [email protected]

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BOCCE BALL LEAGUE PLAY ©

The 2016 Concord Bocce Ball Federation (CBF) League season began on May 2, 2015 at Newhall Park and

Baldwin Park courts in Concord. We (SIR Bocce team name) play on the Baldwin Park courts which are located

off Beach St. (near Port Chicago Highway and Bonifacio St.) Play is limited to 10 SIR members and/or partners

and we have the requisite number. You do not require any knowledge of the game as we will show you how to

play and explain the rules that govern the game of Bocce Ball. The CBF League provides all the equipment. If

you have any questions, please call me (Activity Chairman).

Our standings as of May 32th

:

Games Played Won Lost

3 0 3

We played hard, improved in each game but lost game 3 on the last ball thrown.

Chairman: Bob Barnes 686-0106 [email protected]

Assistant Chairman: Danny Rinaldi: 825-0519 [email protected]

BOCCE OPEN PLAY 2

The Branch 8 participation in the 2016 NorCal Courts Bocce Open Play season has been temporarily suspended.

Instead, mark your calendars now if you would like to join in on “pick-up” Bocce games with your fellow SIRs every

Thursday morning at 9:30 at Baldwin Park in Concord. The courts are located across the street from the

Concord Senior Center.

We welcome all SIR member players (and spouses/partners); prior Bocce experience is not required. If anyone is

interested (or for more information), please contact the Activity Chairman:

Chairman: Jim Whitsett 689-5493 [email protected]

BARGAIN BITES

Three Brothers from China

By the time you read this we will have feasted at "Three Brothers from China" in Pleasant Hill on Tuesday, May 24.

It was a traditional Chinese feast served family style at tables of eight. How many you wonder? There were seven

tables of eight which adds up to 56 SIR and spouses--- another new record. Thanks to all of you who attended and

support Bargain Bites and all of our great SIR activities.

And a special thanks to my partner Ron Maciak (and Linda) who organized this one while I was twiddling my

thumbs. And to Alex Go (and Mayo) who suggested Three Brothers and helped with the arrangements.

Our Annual Sir in the Kitchen Picnic and the Ladies Day Luncheon both occur in June so we will skip Bargain Bites and see you in

July. Any suggestions? Venue is still open.

We will continue to try to find good local restaurants that can provide us with a nice meal for $20 with tax and tip included. If you

would like to be placed on the e-mail list, just send a note to [email protected] and say “Place me on the Bargain Bites List”. You

will receive personal e-mails in advance of the Hotline. Thanks for your interest and wonderful support. It makes the effort

worthwhile.

Chairman Ron Smith 314-3066 [email protected]

Asst. Chairman Ron Maciak 357-8005 [email protected]

BIRDERS ©

On Monday May 16, seven birders went to Mitchell Canyon and had a very nice outing and lunch.

For the June 20th trip, we have decided to tackle Monday morning traffic and go to Coyote

Hills Regional Park (CH) in Fremont. It is a great park and has a variety of birding habitats.

The park has marshes, moderately steep hillsides and beaches along the bay. A good variety

of shore birds & waterfowl can be seen there. Last year, a ring necked pheasant and a

peregrine falcon were seen in the hillside. The trail to the Main Marsh area is flat and an easy

3/4 mile walk. But It will take a lot of walking and time to cover the hillsides and to reach the

bay. Consequently, we won't have time to see the whole park.

Google says it's a one hour drive from WC (without traffic). I guess they must be measuring the traffic traveling times late at night.

To make it easier on us, we can car pool in a 7 passenger SUV. Car pooler will leave Leary Wong's house (915 Avondale

Court,WC) at 9:00 am. Alternatively, you can meet us at the visitor's center around 10:30 (hopefully). There is a restroom, but no

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restaurants in the park. So bring water, lunch and sunscreen. We anticipating leaving the park around 2 so that we can beat most of

the commuters home.

A map of the park can be seen at: http://www.ebparks.org/Assets/files/parks/coyote_hills/Coyote+Hills+map.pdf

Chairman: Leary Wong –925 457 0807 [email protected]

BOOK EXCHANGE

If you read it and liked it, bring it!

We encourage and want you to bring books to share. Our mantra is…”IF YOU READ A BOOK THAT YOU

REALLY LIKED AND WANT TO SHARE IT, BRING IT TO THE NEXT SIR LUNCHEON AND DONATE TO OUR

COLLECTION’.

We have marked some of the boxes with red tape indicating “NEW BOOKS” which we place at the end of the table

of our Book Exchange boxes.

Chairman: Tom Kerns, [email protected] (925-376-8840).

Assistant Chair: Stan Orlik, [email protected]

Assistant Chair: Alan Curtis, [email protected]

Assistant Chair: Rob Laabak, [email protected]

BOOK GROUP

The book selection for May was Paul O’Brian’s historical novel “Master and Commander”. The back cover has an

excellent summary of the book:

“This, the first in the splendid Jack Aubrey novels, establishes the friendship between Captain Aubrey, R.N., and

Stephen Maturin, Ship’s Surgeon and intelligence agent, against the thrilling background of the Napoleonic wars.

Details of life aboard a man-of-war in Nelson’s navy are faultlessly rendered:

The conversational idiom of the officers in the ward room and the men of the lower deck, the food, the floggings,

the mysteries of wind and the rigging, and the roar of broadsides as the great ships close in battle”

The book group discussion was animated, with members either loving the book or disliking it. Those who disliked it had trouble with

the upper class conversational idiom of the time, as well as the at-times detailed reference to the technicalities of sailing. All agreed

that the battle scenes and the description of shipboard life were both riveting and informative.

O’Brian is a wonderful author, with compelling story lines and well developed, interesting characters. If you like “Master and

Commander”, you will are likely to be hooked on the rest of the 20-book series.

Elie Wiesel’s “Night” is the June selection and will no doubt provoke another thoughtful discussion. The Book Group meets the first

Tuesday of the month at 10 a.m. at Round Table Pizza on Treat Blvd. Email Chairman Nick Maufe at [email protected] if you are

interested in joining us.

Chairman: Nick Maufe,

BOWLING

Winter Leagues Branch 19 SIR League - Branch 19 (Concord) sponsors a SIR league at Clayton Valley Bowl. There are eight

four-person teams. Ladies are welcome. We bowl every Wednesday morning starting at 10 AM.

The 2015-2016 season ended on May 4th

. The two teams with Branch 8 bowlers didn’t do so well: Jim Erickson’s team finished 6

th and Dan Weller’s team was next to last in 7

th place. But, both Jim and Dan cashed in the

sweepstakes tournament on the last day of bowling. Dan came in second with a nice 673 scratch series. Jim finished in sixth place.

The SIR 2016-2017 season will start September 7th. Contact Dan Weller if you are interested in joining this fun activity. We are hoping to expand to ten or twelve four-person teams next season.

SIR State-Wide Tournament Schedules, Applications, and Results Are On Line: To access the SIR State bowling information, open the state bowling web site at http://sirinc.org/bowling. You can find tournament

schedules, applications, and results on the site.

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Upcoming SIR Bowling Tournaments:

DATE LOCATION COMMENTS

June 1,2 Pinole

June 21, 22 Paradise

Fun tournament in the

butte area east of

Chico.

ACTIVITY CHAIRMAN: Dan Weller 925-935-5510 [email protected]

ASSISTANT CHAIR: Jim Erickson 925-939-7925 [email protected]

BASIC BRIDGE

The Basic Bridge format is open to players of many levels. Each table will have a coach. For beginning players

there will be a review discussion after the hand has been played. The more advanced players have non-

competitive, free play. All players are invited to ask questions and offer friendly advice on mistakes at any time.

The sessions are co-ed. Basic Bridge is held on the first Thursday of the month from 1:30 – 3:30 PM at Round Table

Pizza located on Treat Blvd. near Oak Grove Road. Come early for lunch as that is our payment for use of the room.

Call Rod Spicer, 935-5306, to be added to our reminder list.

Rod Spicer, Chairman, 935-5306, [email protected]

Al Hudgens, Co-Chairman, 246-7846

BRIDGE DUPLICATE – TWO

No input for June

Chairman: Max Creamer 262-740

Assistant: Jerry Milano 934-3496 [email protected]

BRIDGE DUPLICATE – ONE

Duplicate Bridge I met on May 13, 2016 for the regular monthly session. This session was held at The Greenery

Restaurant at Diablo Hills Golf Course in Walnut Creek. The top 3 finishers were:

1st Long-Yee 42 points 2nd Grisanti-Regan 39.5

3rd Bingham-Steichen 37

Small slams were bid and made by two teams on one hand. Top honors were earned by the team of Bushnell and Sherne when they

bid and made a vulnerable 6 no trump contract for a score of 1470, Runners up were Myrtle and Spicer who chose to play the hand in

6 diamonds for a score of 1370. Ah, the power of no trump. The biggest score swing was produced on a hand where Bingham and

Steichen, playing N-S, doubled a not vulnerable 5 diamond contract by E-W and earned a score of 500 by setting the contract by 3.

On the same hand Grisanti and Regan, playing E-W, made a 4 spade doubled contract producing a score of 790 and a swing of a

whopping 1290 points Another hand illustrated one of the great mysteries of the game. Specifically, how 4 teams can look at the same

cards and arrive at 4 completely different bidding results. In this instance 2 hearts, 1 spade, 3 clubs and a no bid were the results with

all bids made.

Thanks to Dick Long for hosting and set-up Jerry Milano will have the duties next month. Also, Thanks to Jai Yee, Ken Main and Al

Welch for subbing.

Our next session will be June10 at 9:00AM.Contruction activity at the Greenery may require a change in venue. Substitutes are

often needed and any SIR wishing to play should contact:

Bob Kahl Chairman 284-8572 Dick Long Ass’t Chairman 274-1786

Ton Hensley Ass’t Chairman 937-0605

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BRIDGE RUBBER

Last month the April results did not make it to the Hotline. It was either lost in cyberspace or my own oversight. The

winners in April were: Al Hudgens (3570); and Ralph Sweinfurth (3020). At least I know about three bridge players

who actually read the Hotline.

Now for May, we had eight diehard players and the winners this month were: Ralph Sweinfurth (4300); and George

Schulze (3480). The scores ran from 1900 to 4300 with the median score being about 3100.

All are invited to our game at Round Table Pizza on Treat Blvd. near Oak Grove Road. The game is played on the

first Thursday of the month and starts at 9:00AM. Please respond to Al Welch's e-mail early so that we can confirm the tables.

Chairman: Rod Spicer, 935-5306, [email protected] Co-Chairman Al Welch, 938-4131, [email protected] Co-Chairman David Bushnell, 838-3914, [email protected]

COUPLES BRIDGE ©

Couples Bridge Results:

Raleigh and Helen Davis took first place with 3720 points. Les and Carole Hopkins were second with 3300 points

followed by Ernie Sherne and Margaret Kozak with 3200 points.

The results are "unofficial" because one team had to leave early, so some couples did not finish their fourth round. At

any rate, all seem to enjoy the games and the outing.

Our Next session will be on Monday June 20, 2016 (our normal third Monday).As always we welcome (and need ) new

players, so if you wish to join us, contact Ken Main or Les Hopkins by phone or email.

We meet at Round Table Pizza Restaurant on Treat Blvd with play starting at1:00 pm.

Chairman: Ken Main (925) 945-1065 [email protected]

Assist. Chair Les Hopkins (925) 673-1536 [email protected]

CAR ENTHUSIASTS

Car Enthusiasts May outing was rained out. We did however present a small car show for luncheon participants at

the May 9th Sir's meeting. The guys who came out to review the lineup seemed to have a good time reminiscing the

good times past. We have added a new member to our group, Burt Baker, has an interest in joining us and we look

forward to having him attend our next meeting.

The next Car Enthusiasts outing is Saturday, June 18th at Todos Plaza Park in Concord, Vette-O- Rama 46,

presented by Diablo Valley Corvettes car club. We plan to meet at a yet to be determined restaurant near the park at

11:30Have quick lunch, and then walk the show. We will conclude about 3 PM, or whenever the participants want to

depart. The show cost is free, lunch is NO Host. Give Chick Lowry a call, 932-4886 or an e-mail, [email protected] if you would

like to join us.

Our next Monthly meeting will be held June 7th at the Round Table Pizza, Oak Grove and Treat, Concord, at 1 PM. Arrive 15 to 20

minutes early to pre-order lunch. We had planned to cancel this meeting, but there have been some changes in the coordination of

the June outing and we need to discuss a resolution.

Call any of the persons listed if you wish to participate in meetings or outings:

Activity Chair - Chick Lowry - [email protected]

Assistant Chairs

Tom Mohrman [email protected]

Bill Koski [email protected]

Bob McMains [email protected]

COMPUTERS AND TECHNOLOGY ©

In May, Neil Schmidt’s presentation was a follow up to Derek Southern’s photo organizing and editing presentation in

April. Neil spoke about "Cloud Photo Storage.” He covered the advantages of storing photos in the cloud, not the

least of which is that they are an inexpensive (often free) alternative to storing them on your computer. Furthermore,

most cloud storage comes with features designed for managing and sharing photos. Neil’s presentation included a

comparison of several of the most popular cloud photo storage systems. You can review his presentation at:

http://a2cat.sirinc2.org

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Because of the length of Neil’s presentation, Barry Brown’s, “Answers to common questions about Windows 10,” is postponed unt il

our July meeting.

There is no Computers and Technology meeting in June. At the July meeting, in addition to Barry’s presentation, Frank May will be

speaking about the “Connected House.” Wouldn’t you like to adjust your house’s thermostat and turn on the lights, all while you are

returning home from a long day’s outing? Come find out how you can do that, and more.

We look forward to seeing you 9:15 AM, July 14, 2015, at the Walnut Creek Elks Lodge, 1475 Creekside Drive. We ask for a donation

of $5 to cover the cost of the hall rental, coffee and cookies -- but some months are free, so come and see if our July meeting is

another one of those! All SIR members and their guests (spouses included!) are welcome to attend. See you there.

Chairman: Bill Phelon [email protected] 254-8338

CRIBBAGE

The Cribbage Group meets on the first Wednesday and the third Tuesday of each month at Round Table Pizza on

Treat Blvd. at 1 PM. Please join us if you have played Cribbage or would like to learn the game. Our next meetings are

on Wednesday, May 4; Tuesday, May16; and Wednesday, June 1..

Chairman - Herb Hellsten [email protected] Ass’t. Chairman - Ron Draper

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY

The general assignment for the May meeting was to photograph "The Essence of Your Town." There were as many

interpretations of “essence” as there were members at the meeting. One member even felt that Bend, Oregon’s

“essence” was a worthwhile stand in for his “town!” Following the photo show, there was a discussion of computer

photo organizers and some of their more curious attributes. All in all, a very good meeting

The assignment for June is to photograph using the “Golden Rule.” Dave has already provided us with several articles

that explain and illustrate the “rule.” Which means that we ought to have another interesting meeting in June.

Everyone is encouraged to bring up to 12 photos to share on a “clean” flash drive. (Mac users may want to double check their flash

drives, just to make sure the photos are present.)

Our host for the June 17, meeting, Dave Davis, will be sending out reminders & directions, and looking for attendance confirmations a

couple of weeks before the gathering.

Digital Photography Group meetings begin at 10:00 AM on the third Friday of the month. Coffee, tea and snacks are provided, for

which we ask a $2 donation. All levels of photographer, from point and shooter to sophisticated DSLR users are welcome.

Bill Phelon, Chair Dave Davis, Vice Chair [email protected] [email protected]

254-8338 838-1753

DOMINOES

Wanted: New Players for Dominos

Have you wanted to learn how to play dominoes? Here's your opportunity. We are looking for members who

would like to learn the game. The thought is to set up a table with beginners and one or two current domino

players to show you how to play the game.

We meet at ROUND TABLE PIZZA located at 2960 Treat Blvd, Concord Calif. Hours of play are 11:00am to

2:00pm.

We usually purchase coffee or lunch. We donate $5.00 each and we keep score by points. 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th place take home the

money. We'd love some new players and always have fun. Please join us on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month.

Chairman: Danny Rinaldi 825-0519 [email protected]

MEXICAN TRAIN DOMINOES

Please note the following for June sessions. As there is an unusual Calendar occurrence where we have the

second Tuesday and the third Wednesday as consecutive days a decision was made at the last meeting in May

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that the second Tuesday session would be cancelled. So we will have only one meeting in June on Wednesday the 15th.

Attendance is still steady and we are now averaging 8 players per session. The enthusiasm when playing is obvious and we are now

achieving 12 or 13 games per meeting.

We have one or two players who can only make one of the days as they have other activities to attend on the other meeting day. This

is no problem so if any other member of the Branch would like to play but can only make either the second Tuesday or Third

Wednesday, no worries, please come along.

Congratulations to Terry Norton who had the lowest score for 12 rounds on Tuesday May10th and for 10 rounds and congratulations

to Bill Peterson who had the lowest score for 13 rounds both on Wednesday May 18th .

As a reminder for those interested we meet at 10am to 1pm on the second Tuesday (except June} and third Wednesday of every

month at Round Table Pizza, corner Treat and Oak Grove.

Please let Chairman John Sewell know if you are interested - [email protected]. or phone (925) 446 4394

EXPLORE AND EAT

"No Explore & Eat Events scheduled for June.

"Chairman: Ron Woods - 930-9194 [email protected]

Asst. Chair: Larry McEwen; 939-3216; [email protected]

AREA 2 FISHING

AREA 2 FISHING NEWS FOR MAY 2016

Next meeting will be Thursday, June 23rd, at the Legend Sports Bar and Grill at the Diablo Creek Golf Course at

4050 Port Chicago Highway in Concord. Meeting starts at 8:30am. We will be very busy this summer fishing for:

catfish, striped bass, black bass, crappie, bluegill, sturgeon, crawfish, trout, crab, salmon, halibut, ling cod, and rock

fish. We live in a fishermen’s paradise.

Here are some highlights from the last month:

25 of us feasted on rock fish, ling cod, and cabezone at Carl Moyer’s back yard spring fish fry.

Raliegh Davis, Stan Wong, Carl Moyer and Lee Clark all fished for salmon on party boats out the gate. Raliegh went twice and

limited with nice salmon each time on the Wacky Jacky from San Francisco.

Pete Gates led a crew of Tom Boltz, Joe Karg, and Rich Fiscina on a charter to New Hogan for stripers. Everybody got their limit

to 8 lbs on a lovely spring day.

Karl Droese, Dick Thomson, and others fished for stripers in the delta with limited success.

Tom Kostik, our striper specialist, has his boat in the hospital, and we are all grieving. He did get out with Mike Corker and

bothered some black bass. Mike released a big sturgeon on another outing.

Pete Gates, Tom Boltz, and Jack Waddell got trout at Los Vaqueros.

Harry Sherinian and Terry Miller worked Lake McSwain for sadness and sorrow.

Paul Dubow caught yellow tailed snappers in the seas from Florida.

Meetings start at 8:30 am. For further information, please contact

Treasurer/Secretary: Barry Rauchle, , (925-400-3729.)

Big Fish: Paul Dubow, 415-495-6504

Branch 8 Coordinator: Carl Moyer, 925-685-5243

GENEALOGY

Other sources for genealogy are the websites and data bases for graveyards. These have become much better

developed of late thanks to the efforts of many people that have this interest. The website findagrave.com is a

free resource for finding the final resting places of family members. In addition individual listings may have

additional information and data that will help you put a family together. It’s good practice to validate what records

are of interest to you, although I find that the information added to these websites is usually well researched or has

access to other family sources. You may also have to go directly to the specific graveyard, which usually state if

and where you can find their data. Graveyards are typically started at some point in time and thus go back no

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more than that. Finding data for the small family plots used in the past are more of a challenge. If you want my help contact Dan

Smith at [email protected] or at 925 588-6792 who someone works for. Contact me if you want my help.

Chairman: Dan Smith: [email protected]

or cell 925 588-6792

GOLF 18 HOLES

Some of you may be wondering “how any rounds did we play last year? What was the average score?” Well

wonder no more. Thanks to Gordon Batesole, here are the answers. 1,266 rounds were played in 2015. The

average gross score was 97 and the average net score was 73. How about we play 1,300 rounds in 2016. Our 4

man best/worst was held on April 25 (after the deadline for May’s article) and the winners were Gordon

Batesole, Jack Stack, Derek Southern and Don Dennler. Their score was 128, 3 better than the 2nd

place

team. Our next Branch 8 Tournament will be held on June 27. This is called “How Well Do You Know Your

Game” Rules can be found under Branch 8 Tournaments. Looks to be very interesting. We played Eagle Vines

on May 10 and in addition to our own Closest To The Pin, Eagle Vine was gracious enough to also award prizes for Closest To The

Pin which was a free round of golf with cart as well as 20% discount off the rates for the rest of the 4-some, nice prizes. And the

winners were: Scott Graff hole #5, 14’ 8” and Jerry Daykin hole #14, 16’ Nice going, guys. GOLD COUNTRY GOLF!! Still time to

sign up, don’t miss this one!!Go to the sign up page for informationDave Platter, Chair: [email protected] 283 9146

Bill Koski, Communications: 672 7650 [email protected]

GOLF 9 HOLES

9 HOLE GOLF MAY 2016

May was a good month for the 9 hole group with a good turn out every week. We also had a few new faces,

which is always a pleasure.

Renovations are underway at the clubhouse at Diablo Hills but the proshop will be open throughout the work and

all the amenities will be available.

The results from each week are always posted on the website under “Play results” and thanks to Dick Brooks the monthly summary is

also posted at the end of each month under “Monthly Stats 2016”. Take a look and see how you are doing.

Our annual DAI (Don Atwater Invitational) will be held on June 2nd

at Las Positas executive course in Livermore. As it will be too late

for including in this edition of the Hotline, please check the web site for full details and results.

Full details are available on the Branch website.

Barry Brown: Chair [email protected], 930-8206 Phil Philpot: Asst. Chair [email protected] 937-2260

Dick Brooks: Advisor and Stats, [email protected]

228-6959

COUPLES GOLF©

Have you ever played golf with ‘colored’ balls? Not just with white or yellow, but have you played with

green, hot pink, purple, magenta, bright green and bright orange? Twenty-four SIR Couples’ Golf team

members had a delightful day with a “colored ball’ friendly competition. Marshals Leo and Judy Barrella

gave the ‘Best Colored Ball’ rules as follows: Each of the twelve couples received two ‘colored golf balls.’

In the foursome, each person had to play the designated colored ball for the score for any two particular

holes. One person had to play for three holes. Each person kept individual scores, but only the

designated “colored ball’ score was recorded on the team score sheet. The marshals collected the score

sheets and after eliminating each foursome’s highest and lowest score on the sheet, the winners were determined. Participating were:

Marshals Leo and Judy Barrella, Ed & Birgit Pearson, Gordon & Margaret Batesole, Ron Maciak & Linda Gawura, Roger & Mardi

Lockwara, Jim & Aira Regan, Dean & Marilyn Steichen, Bob & Sandy Price, Bill & Konnie Collins, Bob & Daphne Olsen, Paul & Millie

Hersch, and Mario and Alison Moratorio. AND THE WINNERS WERE Marilyn and Dean Steichen and Aly and Mario Moratorio!!

Congratulations to the winners, but we were all winners because it was so much fun, and all 24 stayed for a delicious lunch.

The marshals for June will be Paul & Millie Hersch, and they will explain the ‘play for the day’ on Thursday, June 9, at Diab lo Hills Golf

Course. Teams will be formed and play will begin at 9:00 am. We look forward to seeing those who were absent today as well as

welcoming new members. If you are interested in joining this fun group for any ‘two somes’ please contact Chairperson Paul Derby at

[email protected] or Paul Hersch at [email protected]. You may also go to the SIR website: www.sirbr8.com and select

Couples Golf. We look forward to seeing you all on Thursday, June 9 for fun and fellowship as well as a great game of golf! Please go

to the website and sign up including by going to www.sirbr8.com.

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Chairman: Paul Derby [email protected] or

Asst. Chair: Paul Hersch [email protected].

TRAVELING NINE HOLE GOLF

Only FIVE of us made the trip to the PRUNERIDGE golf club in Santa Clara for our April outing. Pruneridge is an

interesting 9-hole layout. There were only two par four holes and a mix of par three’s. The most challenging of this

course was being able to read the greens. All greens were guarded with a couple of nice sand traps and had

contours the required your imagination to make a putt. So many putts were missed by an inch or 2 because the

ball would fall off at the very end of your roll out. Our low gross player was none other than Jack Stack with a 38,

as I recall. The rest of us ranged in the forties. We played in about two hours and at the conclusion stopped off at

the grill for lunch. There was beer on tap, however the Sierra Nevada was out and a verity of sandwiches. My jack

cheese hamburger was very tasty and cooked to order. The grill was on the small side but adequate for a quick

lunch. Other than the commute traffic it was a pretty great day.

Thursday, May 26th

we are scheduled to play Las Positas in Livermore. This is the course we are playing for our annual DAI the

following week (Thursday, June 2nd

). To sign up go to [email protected] or signup at the 9-hole table at the luncheon.

Remember to see a bad shot, just stand up.

Chair: Phil Philpot: : [email protected] (925) 937 2260 Co Chair: Dick Brooks: [email protected] (925) 228-6959

HEADS UP WALKERS ©

June 2016 Walks

One-hour walks start at 9:30 AM and usually are on flat surfaces. Most walks are “out and back” which means

you walk for 30 minutes at your own pace, then turn around and walk 30 minutes back to the starting point. At

10:30 AM, we leave the trail for coffee, refreshments and spirited conversation. Spouses and dogs welcome.

6/2/2016: Concord: Newhall Community Park. Meet at parking lot on Turtle Creek Rd. off Ayers Rd. Some

elevation changes to the Viet Nam Memorial. Cafe: Bagel Street Cafe. Leader: Lloyd Gunderson

6/9/2016: Lafayette: Moraga School Rd. Take Mt. Diablo Blvd. to Moraga Rd. Turn left on School Rd. to the trail head. Cafe: Noah's

New York Bagels. Leader: Phil Trapp

6/16/2016: Concord: C.C.C. Regional Trail. Take Treat Blvd east. Go 3/4 mile past Oak Grove and turn left on San Miguel. Turn

right on Via Montanas. Meet in Parking Lot across the street from the trail at the Lime Ridge Open Space. There is street parking also

under shade trees about 90 feet from the trail head. Cafe: Peet's Coffee. Leader: Ray Tenzer

6/23/2016: Danville: Railroad Museum Iron Horse. Exit I-680 at Diablo Rd., west to Hartz Ave., left to Prospect Ave., right to

Railroad Ave Meet in Railroad Museum parking lot, corner of Prospect & Railroad Ave. Cafe: Pascal French Oven Bakery & Cafe.

Leader: Roger Lockwara

6/30/2016: Walnut Creek: Countrywood C.C. Canal. Meet at the flagpole near Safeway in the Countrywood Shopping Center ,

corner of Treat & Bancroft. Cafe: Noah's New York Bagels. Leader: Stan Johnson

7/7/2016: Concord: Iron Horse, Willows Shopping Center. Willows Shopping Center, meet at the south corner near the Lazy Dog

Restaurant. Cafe: Panera Bread Cafe. Leader: Steve Pierce

7/14/2016: Walnut Creek: C.C. Canal Heather Farms C.C. Canal. Meet at the Heather Farms parking lot at the far North end of San

Carlos Dr. Cafe: Sweet Affair Bakery. Leader: Terry Norton

Chairman: Dan Weller 925-935-5510 [email protected] Asst. Chair: Erland Persson 925-932-5328 [email protected] Asst. Chair: Jim Kawal 925-228-8821 [email protected]

SIR HIKERS ©

June 14, 2016 Easy Hike: Sugar Loaf Open Space, Walnut Creek

A 3.0 to 3.5 mile easy hike with a gradual elevation gain of about 250 ft. The hike starts at the Sugarloaf parking

area at the end of Youngs Valley Road. We will pick up the Sugarloaf-shell ridge trail toward Rudgear park and

then follow a trail called Franco Ranch Loop for a short distance. We will then follow some residential Roads for

a short distance to a Trailhead at the end of Benham CT.

For details of the hike, including directions and optional lunch see the SIR Branch8 Hiker Activity Web page at

http://www.sirbr8.com/hikers/

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Hike Leader: Ken Main 925-876-1420 [email protected]

June 28, 2016 Hard Hike: Las Trampas Regional Wilderness

On the last Tuesday of June we will hike the Las Trampas Regional Wilderness. It is going to be a moderately strenuous hike of about

6 miles with some steep challenging slopes and a total elevation gain of 1,100 feet. About 60% of the hike is on narrow single track

and 40% on fire road. It is mostly shaded and has several vista points with great views of the scenic I-680 corridor.

For directions to the trailhead, carpooling and lunch info: See http://www.sirbr8.com/hikers/

Hike Leader: Y.K. Chan 925-457-2771 [email protected]

June Coordinator: Martin Simmons 925-586-2704 [email protected]

Hiking Activity Chair: Dave Davis 925-838-1753 [email protected]

LADIES DAY LUNCHEON ©

Just a reminder that our next Ladies Day Luncheon will be held at the Round Hill Country Club on Monday June 13,

2016. All of the details you need on the event are included on the reservation form in the back of this Hotline issue. We

have an excellent menu, and you’ll enjoy reliving the music of “Elvis”

The Group reservation form, which also is in the back of this issue, should be used if you want to reserve seats for

from 4 to 10 people. Please be sure to put the names and meal choices of those people you wish to sit with and

include full payment for the group.

You can mail your reservations directly to Ed Dijkman, who’s address is on the bottom of the form or turn it in at the table we’ll have

set up in the lobby prior to our May SIR luncheon.

So, come and have fun, and we’ll see you on June 13th

.

Ladies Day Luncheon Chairman: Jack Waddell,

932-5664 [email protected]

DINE IN # 1 ©

There is no report on the May 20 dinner at this time. A report will be submitted next month. Anyone interested in

starting Dine In #4, contact me, Ron Cassano, head glutton

Chair: Ron Cassano: roncassano@gmail,com 944-1238

DINE IN # 2 ©

No article was received for the June Hotline

Co-Chair: Ed Cohn; [email protected] 954-7600

Co-Chair: Bob Price 937-6814 [email protected]

DINE IN # 3 ©

Our next dinner will be on 13 July at Tony and Peggy deLosada's home in Walnut Creek. Tony said we'll have a

bar-b-que, which means lots of time outdoors, weather permitting. We expect all five of our regular couples and

alternate couple to be attending.Bob McMains house on 11 May at 6 PM.

Chairman, Rich Cheney, 925-289-1265, [email protected]

Asst. Chairman, Jeff Foster, (973) 219-9141, [email protected]

DINE OUT # 1 ©

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There is no DINE OUT 1 planned for June, however, mark your calendars for upcoming events in July and August...

SUNDAY JULY 31st, is a special Brunch at the CROW CANYON COUNTRY CLUB in Danville. Dave and JoAnne

Perkins are again hosting the popular buffet style event.

THURSDAY AUGUST18th, is at LA VERANDA in downtown Clayton. Your host and hostess are Les and Carole

Hopkins. More details to follow.

EVERYONE, COUPLES OR SINGLES ARE INVITED!

Activity Chair: Ken Main (925) 945-1065 [email protected]

DINE OUT #2

WANTED

Sir and Lady to host a Dine Out 2 activity.

Social time around food and drink is popular among Branch 8 Sirs. And June, with our Ladies Day Luncheon, Annual

Branch 8 BBQ and our other large dine out groups, gets the summer culinary season off to a good start. Also, there is

“DINE OUT 2” for groups of 4 couples. It is designed to capture a restaurants cuisine, atmosphere and service while

enjoying comradery with fellow Sirs and their ladies. If this is your way to enjoy a summer evening either as a host or

a guest then let chairman Don know.

Chairman Don Atwater. 673-1669 [email protected] Asst. Chatman Jerry Milano 934-3496 [email protected]

POKER

Players wanted. Come join us for poker!

We offer refresher games at 10:15 before the Monthly Luncheon for any member who wants to try again. Call Dan Franklin if you want to sit in to learn. You can also sit in to help our new players. We now have 9 groups and the playing days are shown in the table below.

First Monday First Tuesday First Friday

Second Tuesday 3rd Wednesday Third Thursday

Fourth Monday Fourth Tuesday Fourth Thursday

Our groups meet usually from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Group members rotate as hosts, providing drinks and munchies. Deal rotates; dealer calls the game and antes a quarter-- three-raise limit. We play nickel, dime, and quarter. It’s an inexpensive way to spend an afternoon with a great group of guys!

Chair: Dan Franklin 685-1505 [email protected]

Asst: Ek Keller 933-2594 [email protected]

DARTS AND POOL

Darts and Pool meets at Arties Lounge in Countrywood at 2 pm the 2nd

and 4th

Thursday of the month. Chairman: Bill Cooke, 691-9325 [email protected]

MODEL RAILROADING

A History in the making!!

A group of Branch 8 SIRs assembled as usual at Al’s home on May 7th

to continue the design and

construction of an HO scale layout. After diligent effort, those present witnessed the birth of the SIR

Short-Line RR! Several trains actually ran successfully on a simple oval of track. This was HUGE!

Work on the layout will continue on a roughly bi-weekly schedule. Please join in to assist us!

If you would like to be added to the Model Railroading e-mail list, please advise the Activity Chairman.

.Chairman: Jim Whitsett 689-5493 [email protected]

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Asst. Chairman: Dick Grube 687-0779 [email protected]

SENIOR CENTER ACTIVITIES

TENNIS 8:00am—12:00pm Larkey Park Experienced players Ed Cohn, Volunteer Coordinator [email protected] 954-

7600

PICKLEBALL CLUB 10:00am—12:00pm Tice Gym. Bill Dougherty, Volunteer Coordinator Contact:

[email protected] In cooperation with Walnut Creek Village Senior Organization:

Save the Dates: · Lunch ‘N’ Learn On Wednesday, May 25: AGING AND ITS IMPLICATIONS: Careful Planning Today

to Avoid Costly Mistakes Tomorrow. 11:30 am – 1:00 pm. Please call 925- 253-2300 by noon May 23rd. for

reservations! Where: Montecito Oakmont, 4756 Clayton Road (near Treat), Concord. Lunch will be generously (no Charge) provided

by Montecito Oakmont.

WALNUT CREEK VILLAGE’S First Annual Golf Tournament to be held on Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2016, 12 noon - 6:30 pm at

Boundary Oak Golf Course in Walnut Creek. Contact: Patsy Barich [email protected]

Welcome SIR Members, come meet our current volunteers in person at this monthly, no-host Social/Happy Hour, every fourth

Wednesday, 4:30-6:00 pm at Stanford's Bar & Grill in downtown Walnut Creek. Sip a drink, graze on hors d'oeuvres, make new

friends and ask all your burning questions about Walnut Creek Village, a local seniors resource hub in development, scheduled to

open in May 2017. Walnut Creek Village's goal is to provide resources and a social network so we can live comfortably and

confidently in our homes as we age. Date/Time: Wednesday, May 25, 4:30 - 6:00 pm 1300 South Main St. No RSVP needed - just

come by when you can!

Downtown Walnut Creek's FIRST WEDNESDAYS ONCE A MONTH THROUGH OCTOBER: June 1, 2016: "Mid-Week Motown Get

ready to "Moon Walk" down Cypress street to the funky beat of Project 4 Band ... Hop up on a giant inflatable chair for a great photo

op, stop by the Walnut Creek Downtown booth to "Spin the Wheel of Walnut Creek Fortune!" Enjoy wine, beer and a variety of street

eats from Food Truck Mafia, Kettletopia and the Cotton Candy Bar - Walnut Creek Village will be there, from 5-8 pm, on Cypress

between Main and Locust. We'll see you downtown!

Chairman: Tony de Losada, [email protected]

SINGLE SIRS DINE OUT ©

We are a group of Sirs who like to get out of the house once in awhile and share a good meal and some lively

conversation. Each month one of us acts as a host, chooses a restaurant in the area and arranges for a table for

the group, usually about twelve. There are a wide variety of places where we dine from Italian, American,

Mexican, Chinese or whatever. Of course the prices have to be reasonable. Some of us may even share a bottle

of wine.

JUNE SINGLE SIRS DINE OUT Tuesday, June 7th, Dinner 5:30 pm at Tahoe Joes Famous Steakhouse 999

Contra Costa Blvd Pleasant Hill

Located across from the Sun Valley Mall

Contact host Stan Hennessy 686-6828 [email protected]

Chairman: Jack Stack, 939-1842 [email protected]

Asst. Chair: Herb Hellsten, 866-6398 [email protected]

SIRS AT THE GAMES

JOIN US FOR A'S AND GIANTS BASEBALL

The Oakland A’s meet the Milwaukee Brewers on Wednesday, June 22, 12:35 pm. Our group will have excellent

infield level seats along the third base line. With our group price discount, the cost will be only $35 per ticket.

Please contact Jack Schweitzer, Activity Co-Chair, to request your number of tickets. His email is

[email protected]“.

Send your personal check made out to “SIRs at the Games” to Alan Ensign, 361 Bryan Drive, Alamo, CA 94507.

In addition, we have 3 tickets remaining for the SF Giants vs. Washington Nationals game on Sunday, July 31. We have view level

seats behind home plate. Start time is 1:05 pm.

Please contact Steve Schramm, Activity Chair to request your number of tickets to the Giants game. The cost is $45 per

ticket. Steve's email is "[email protected]". Payment should be made to Alan Ensign as indicated above.

We look forward to having your family and friends join us for these great matinee baseball games.

Chair: Steve Schramm [email protected] 222 0801

Co-Chair: Tom Kerns [email protected] 376 8840

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SIRS IN THE GARDEN ©

The Sirs in the Garden group is looking for a new Chairman. Tony made the decision to regretfully, step down, as

Chair from this popular activity he started 4 years ago. The reason: to pay more attention to his responsibilities and

branch duties. We hope, someone in the Branch Membership, a guy, who likes to garden, will step up and

metaphorically speaking, “pick up the trowel!” This would be the ideal scenario, it is an easy and popular activity to run

leads to many enjoyable places, and events, it is uncomplicated, fun and comprised of some of the best in the branch,

in my personal view, to enjoy it with! I will help anyone who does “pick up the trowel” I think you all know that. If you

have interest! call Tony.

Chair Tony de Losada, - [email protected] Co-Chair-Tom Mohrman, [email protected]

TRAVELING SIRS ©

There is still time to sign up for our Custer State Park trip September 28-October 3, 2016. We have 22 signed up so

far, should be a great trip with people you know.

We are planning a trip to Cuba and a Panama Canal cruise.

Planning to have a Travel meeting in June with a travel agent to explain some opportunities. Stay tuned for the

details

Chairman: Larry Yarberry. [email protected]

925 890-9245

Asst. Chair: Robert Wells 930-0792

SIRS IN THE KITCHEN

Crab, crab, crab

With Casa Benson re-opened from its vacation, 26 Sirs in the Kitchen celebrated the group's tenth anniversary, one

month late on May 17. It was quite a celebration. We started with Head Bartender Bob Olson's famous bloody marys,

followed by cold boiled shrimp with lemon and cocktail sauce. We then moved to Executive Chef Ed's crab cakes. He

was ably assisted by Sous Chefs Raleigh, Jack Waddell and Jack Sagen. The crab cakes topped a hearts of romaine

salad with lemon vinaigrette composed my Sous Chef Ken. The final course was half a cold cracked crab per person.

On the prior Sunday, EC Ed, Ms Donna and SC Jack S., made the trip to Davenport to purchase the 20 crabs off the boat and have

them boiled, cleaned and cracked. A terrific lunch at Barbara's Fish House followed. Monday brought out Sous Chefs Al, Jack S. and

Raleigh who picked eight crabs for the crabcakes. We got over four pounds of picked crab – a messy, tedious but necessary job.

Just prior to the luncheon EC Ed gave each attendee a monogrammed apron to celebrate our anniversary. As usual, the set up, take

down and cleanup teams performed admiralty, leaving Casa Benson just as it was before the lunch, well maybe even a little cleaner.

A grand time was had by all.

Our next luncheon is the Branch 8 BBQ on June 21 where the Sirs in the Kitchen chefs combine forces with Tom Borman's BBQ gang

to host the event. Hopefully, we've found room for all who want to attend.

Sirs in the Kitchen is now at 51 members. If you want to join, drop Executive Chef Ed an email ([email protected]), call him (925-

943-7011) or catch him at the monthly meeting. So far, we’ve always had room for anyone who was able to attend, and our typical

luncheon turns out 25 to 30, or so. You don’t have to be an experienced cook (our members have all levels of cooking ability) or have

a kitchen and dining area large enough to accommodate all of us. The usual shared cost for the luncheon and wine is $20, and that’s

the best deal in town.

Should any Sirs want our recipes, email Executive Chef Ed, and they’ll be sent to you.

Executive Chef: Ed Benson [email protected]

SUMS IN RETIREMENT

The Area 2 $UMS Investment Group will meet on Wednesday June 22 at Legends Restaurant at the Diablo Creek

Golf Course. The course is located just north of Hwy 4 on Port Chicago Hwy. We meet at 8:00 AM and finish at 9:30.

The speaker will be SIRs member David Munson of Branch 174. His topic will be "Investment Resources for the

Individual Investor."

Dave spent 33 years in international banking with assignments in Istanbul, Tokyo, London and Honolulu. Primarily

developing relationships with non-US residents and high net worth individuals, he traveled extensively in Asia and

the South Pacific. He will be discussing investment resources for picking stocks that can be held over time (say 2-4

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years) rather than for short term trading.

The Legends opens at 7:00 AM. Come early and have a leisurely breakfast with your colleagues prior to the meeting. Bring a

prospective member.

SIR.Chair: Tom Henry Branch 174 [email protected]

Co-Chair: Dave Sutton Branch 8 [email protected]

WRITING YOUR LIFE STORY

This Activity is in its 10th

year and meets monthly to help SIRs who are interested in documenting the stories about

their lives. Whether it is an autobiography, or just short stories of their youth in a different era or war stories or travel

and adventures, tales of their ancestors, etc. If you have considered documenting part of your life for your children

and/or grandchildren, check out this Activity. It may be just what you are looking for. This is one of the most interesting

and mentally invigorating activities in the Branch.

Writing Your Life Stories will meet on April 26 and we welcome new members. We meet at 10:00 a.m. at Vintage

Kensington Place (in the second floor Game Room), located on Geary Road near North Main in Walnut Creek, just off

I-680.

You will receive a syllabus to guide you in writing your own life stories.

Chairman: Dick Brewer 925-933-0876 [email protected]

CELLAR FILLERS WINE

June 2016 is a down month for the Cellar Fillers Wine Activity. The next meeting will be in August or September

with time and place TBD. New hosts for the meeting are always welcome. Anyone with room enough to have ten

or more thirsty Sirs for lunch is qualified to be the next host. Call if you would like to take it on.

The activity is open to members, applicants, and guests and is a great way to introduce a guest to SIR. Spouses

and SO's are welcome at our other four wine activities, such as Wine Finders I, II, and III, or Bargain Wines.

We meet at 11:30 AM for a simple lunch of sandwiches and fixin's, then taste five whites and five reds.

Occasionally we throw in a few blush wines. Our price point is $6.00-ish, but if tempted by a pretty label we will go a little higher. The

cost of the events is usually around $10.00, depending on the wines selected and how many members attend. A report on the wines

evaluated will be sent to the CFWA members shortly after the meeting, and will be available on the Branch 8 website home page. It

will list the wines, their rankings, price and source.

If you have questions or if you would like your name to be added to the mailing list, please contact::

Host Jack Sagen [email protected]

(925) 376-2749

Chair,Jim Sowell [email protected],

(925) 939-4670 or (925) 457-7746 cel

Ass't Chair,Jim Warner (925) 935-8032 [email protected]

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WINE FINDERS 1 ©

Everyone enjoyed them selves at the Mohrman’s, site at the April gathering. Thanks to Tony for orchestrating

the event, and to Tom and Shiela for hosting. Our next meeting is at the Ripley’s in Alamo on June 9th

.. The

Ripley’s wine selection is to be REDS from Northern Italy, with primary focus on the Piedmont, Lombardy, and

Veneto regions. Remember selections should be under $16.-, with bonus points for under $10.-and double

bonus points under $6.!!!! .

Chair: Bob Price: 937-6814 [email protected]; Co- Chair: Tony de Losada 510-566-2661 [email protected]

WINE FINDERS 2 ©

We held a tasting hosted by the Hodgsons.Tasting was Sangiovese and the Kargs hit a home run with a $3.99 Crane Lake. Who say price matters. Second was the Lunns with a Fantini at

$11.00 and third was the Eichs Girasole at $14.99. Next tasting will be in June. Happy tasting.

Chair: Ron Cassano, 925- 944-1238 [email protected]

WINE FINDERS 3©

No report submitted.

Chairman and Coordinator: Larry McEwen 939-3216; [email protected]

BARGAIN WINES

Our meeting for wine tasting was held at 5 pm May 5, 2016 at BevMo’s new tasting room on No. Main St.,Walnut

Creek. We had a member of their staff to introduce the white and red wines that we selected from the 5 cent

sale. Crackers and various cheeses were offered and all wines were rated as to whetheror not members would

purchase them. Those with the highest scores will be posted soon on the Sir Branch 8 website so members not

able to attend can try them out.

At the close of the tasting at BevMo, we packed up the remaining bottles and traveled to Melo’s Italian Restaurant in

Pleasant Hill. We had our own section of booths where members were able to order as they liked off the extensive

menu and consume the leftover wines.

Anyone with questions should contact either

Jim Warner [email protected] or

Ed Benson [email protected]

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ACTIVITY CHAIRMAN BIOGRAPHIES

Larry McEwen - WINEFINDERS III; CO-CHAIR, EXPLORE & EAT

Born (1938) and raised in New London, CT. Lived in NYC, New York; Alexandria, VA; San Francisco, CA and

Walnut Creek (1989). Married to Kathleen McKeown since 1986.

US Naval Academy, 1961; Wharton School of Business, 1970.

US Navy 1962-1968 (destroyers, submarines). Ted Bates Advertising Agency 1971: (Palmolive Dishwashing

Liquid: Madge the manicurist: “you’re soaking your hands in it!”, Stretch & Seal Food Wrap; US Environmental

Protection Agency: managed national special waste recycling programs (waste oil, tires and steel) 1972-1978;

Registered Investment Advisor/real estate investor 1979-1988; US Department of Energy, Oakland, CA:

Managed radioactive and hazardous waste cleanup of Agency sites at Stanford University, UC Berkeley National

Laboratory, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, UC Davis Laboratory for Energy-Related Health Research. 1989-2005.

Enjoy art, tennis, birding, gardening, travel and reading. Active volunteer with neighborhood association, Mount Diablo Interpretive

Association, Lindsay Wildlife Experience and local investment club.

Participate in Sirs in the Kitchen, Dine-in II, digital photography, Explore & Eat, and Winefinders III.

Chuck Lowry - CAR ENTHUSIASTS

Hi! I'm Chick Lowry, your Sir's Branch 8 Activity Chairman. I was California born and raised on the San Francisco

Peninsula in Redwood City.

I married my wife, Elaine, 51 years ago and we are still talking to each other. We have 5 adult offspring, 4 boys

and a girl, and 5 grandchildren, 4 girls and a boy.

We moved to Walnut Creek in 1979 when I was transferred to Chevron's Oakland Operations offices after working

many years for Standard Oil in San Francisco. The change in commute methods, from train to car, was just too

time consuming. We have been a Bay Area family for a long time.

I went to work in a Standard Oil Service Station in Redwood City as a summer job following graduation from San Carlos High and

somehow managed to stay employed for 47 years with Standard and then by Chevron, when the corporate name changed. I worked

in 11 different operating companies of that period acquiring job experience in Marketing, Exploration, Service Station Construction and

Maintenance, Computer Services Installation and Maintenance and Corporate Building Operations and Maintenance Management,

ending my Chevron career at the Corporate Financial Center in Concord. Fortunately, I was able to work my entire career in the Bay

Area. For a High School Grad it was certainly an "E Ticket" ride.

I have always had an interest in automotive related activities, thus, a Car Enthusiasts. I enjoy working on classic vehicles and the

challenge of diagnostic problem resolutions. It is becoming more difficult to work on the computerized late model vehicles. I did some

straight line racing (1/4 mile stuff) in my younger years. The Car Enthusiasts thing seemed to be a natural path for a Sir's activity, so

we started one. We currently have 26 Sir's Car Enthusiasts in our activity. One of these days I will find the project car that meets my

dreams and I will get started on a restoration of my own. I also enjoy small project woodworking.

Other Sir's activities I currently participate in or will attempt to add, include; Bocce Ball, Dominos, Model Trains, Photography (my

skills are lacking for that one), Hiking and maybe Sir's in the Kitchen as have a few dishes I can prepare well with a need to learn how

to do more.

Give me a call if you have an interest in being a Car Enthusiast.

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Membership Data BEC Approval: 5/9/2016

Applicants Inducted: 4

Name Badge Sponsor

Bill Babbel MD-304 Terry Mason MD-003

Jeff Foster MD-308 Ron Cassano MD-67

Howard Meadow MD-115 Darryl Sweetland MD-132

Jett Mix MD-174 Leary Wong MD-179

Members Requested Active Status: 0

New Applicants: 3

Name Badge Sponsor

Bill Babbel MD-304 Terry Mason MD-003

Howard Meadow MD-115 Darryl Sweetland MD-132

Paul Rogen MD-317 Dick Brooks MD-121

Applicants Attended Orientation: 8

Name Badge Sponsor

Bill Babbel MD-304 Terry Mason MD-003

Jeff Foster MD-308 Ron Casano MD-67

Howard Meadow MD-115 Darryl Sweetland MD-132

Jerry Mix MD-174 Leary Wong MD-179

Applicants Induction Date:1

Name Badge To Be Inducted

James Gay MD-40 July 11, 2016

Applications Withdrawn Date: 1

Name Badge Reason

Paul Rogen MD-317 Too many rules

Members Requested Inactive Status: 0

Active Members Resign: 0

Inactive Members Resignation: 0

Membership Totals

Group - Status Number

Members - Active 338

Applicants – To Be Inducted 1

Members - Inactive 23

SIR Birthday

June-2016

Name Day Name Day

Frank Begert 3 Allen Makely 16

Richard Bal 3 Paul Hersch 16

Dan Smith 6 Rudy Ceragioli 18

Zip Zaro 6 Don Allen 19

Al Rosso 7 Stewart Patrick 19

Steve Bishop 7 George Schulze 24

Ed Pearson 8 Ken Hodges 24

Jerry Milano 8 Carl Moyer 25

Roger Lamm 8 Ernie Davis 25

YK Chan 8 Jan Wasserfall 26

Gene Bigham 9 Paul Halvorson 27

Bob Bailey 10 Bob Olson 28

Robin

Lamount 10 Dwane

McGlothin 28

Chris Tang 12 Larry Mersmann 28

John Fuller 12 Ron Cassano 29

Ron Woods 12 Ed Dijkman 30

Lee Schneider 14

Anniversary Report – None

Obituary - None

New Members

Name: Bill Babbel

Partner: Joyce Babbel

Phone: 510-928-3648

Residence: Martinez

Occupation:

Warehouse Manager

Company: Tri-Valley Bekins

Interests: Golf – 9 Hole,

Computers, Fishing

Name: Jeff Foster

Partner: Grace Chang

Phone: 973-219-9141

Residence: Walnut Creek

College: Stevens Institute

of Technology

Occupation:

Computer Scientist

Company: Bell Laboratories

Interests: Golf – 9 Hole,

Dine-In, Dine Out,

Name: Howard Meadow

Partner: Iris Meadow

Phone: 415-606-5556

Residence: Walnut Creek

College: C.W. Post institute

of Long Island University

Occupation:

Tech Consulting

Company: Self

Interests: Astronomy, BBQ,

Hiking, Computers,

Walkers, Explore & Eat,

Name: Jerry Mix

Partner: Nancy Mix

Phone: 925-689-4948

Residence: Concord

Occupation:

Maintenance Planner

Company: Exxon

Interests: Photography,

Hiking, Poker, Computers,

Dominoes, Hikers, Walkers

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PHOTO GALLARY

Ek Keller receiving his award for being a long time

editor of the Hotline

Classic Cars on Display at the May Luncheon Meeting

May Speaker from Bart

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Recipients of wine for sponsoring a new member.

New Members Induction.

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SIR Branch 8

Ladies Day Luncheon Round Hill Country Club

3169 Round Hill Road

Alamo California

Monday, June 13, 2016 10:45 a.m. Social Hour – 11:45 a.m. Luncheon

Entertainment:

“Elvis Presley”

Door Prizes!

$37.50 Per Person

Luncheon choice of:

Grilled Salmon or Chicken Piccata

or

Roasted Vegetable Ravioli (Vegetarian) Luncheon includes: salads, vegetables, coffee/tea and dessert

Single SIRs or those whose wives cannot attend are welcome

For those putting a party together, reserve your Group table early.

Group tables must be paid in full at the time of reservation.

Meal selection for each tablemate must also be provided at time of reservation.

Reservation Deadline: Monday, June 6, 2016

No refunds after 9:00pm: Wednesday, June 8, 2016

For cancellations, call Ed Dijkman at 925-680-7756

Reservations may be made by mail or at the April or May. luncheons

Tickets indicating meal choice will be provided at the event.

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Ladies Day Luncheon – Round Hill Country Club Please print name or names below, as you want them to appear on your name tag.

Name:________________________________ SIR MD#__________ Salmon or Chicken or Vegetarian (Circle one)

Guest Name:______________________________________________ Salmon or Chicken or Vegetarian (Circle one)

Mail reservation with checks (payable to SIR Branch 8) to:

Ed Dijkman, 5091 Murchio Dr. Concord, CA 94521

Number of tickets _____ at $37.50 per person. Total:________________

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SIR Branch 8 Ladies Day Luncheon – Round Hill Country Club

Monday, June 13, 2016

Group Reservation Form

Please print tablemate names below, as they are to appear on name tags.

(1) SIR MD #_____Last Name:____________________First Name:_______________ Guest Last Name:___________________________ First Name:_______________

Chicken or Salmon or Vegetarian (Circle one) Chicken or Salmon or Vegetarian (Circle one)

(2) SIR MD #_____Last Name:____________________First Name:_______________ Guest Last Name:___________________________ First Name:_______________

Chicken or Salmon or Vegetarian (Circle one) Chicken or Salmon or Vegetarian (Circle one)

(3) SIR MD #_____Last Name:____________________First Name:_______________ Guest Last Name:___________________________ First Name:_______________

Chicken or Salmon or Vegetarian (Circle one) Chicken or Salmon or Vegetarian (Circle one)

(4) SIR MD #_____Last Name:____________________First Name:_______________ Guest Last Name:___________________________ First Name:_______________

Chicken or Salmon or Vegetarian (Circle one) Chicken or Salmon or Vegetarian (Circle one)

(5) SIR MD #_____Last Name:____________________First Name:_______________ Guest Last Name:___________________________ First Name:_______________

Chicken or Salmon or Vegetarian (Circle one) Chicken or Salmon or Vegetarian (circle one)

Completed form, with amounts due, should be submitted at time reservations are made Reservation Deadline: Monday, June 6, 2016 -- No refunds after Wednesday, June 8, 2016

For cancellations, call Ed Dijkman at 925-680-7756

Mail form and checks (payable to SIR Branch 8) to:

Ed Dijkman, 5091 Murchio Dr, Concord, CA 94521

Number of tickets _____ at $37.50 per person. Total:_________________

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Mt. Diablo Branch No. 8 Branch Officers

Big Sir Darryl Sweetland 925-672-4967 [email protected]

Little Sir Mike Long 925-930-8401 [email protected]

Secretary Erland Persson 925-932-5328 [email protected]

Membership Secretary Bob Barnes 925-348-6443 [email protected]

Attendance Secretary Bill Peterson 925-676-5295 [email protected]

Treasurer

Asst.

Ron Cassano

Dennis Fitzpatrick

925-944-1238

925-209-3547

[email protected]

[email protected]

Directors Ed Benson

Tony de Losada

Rob Laaback

Jerry Milano

Phil Trapp

925-943-7011

510-566-2661

925-938-5228

925-934-3496

925-648-4056

[email protected]

[email protected] [email protected]

[email protected] [email protected]

Attendance Positions Hilton Coordinator Bill Peterson 925-676-5295 [email protected]

Member Badge Greg Ryan

Jack Sagen

925-676-0133

925-376-2749

[email protected]

[email protected]

Branch Positions Activity Coordinator

Asst.

Phil Trapp

Don Atwater

925-648-4056

925-673-1669

[email protected]

[email protected]

Activity Committee.

Phil Trapp

Don Atwater

Dave Davis

Tom Kerns

Steve Schramm

Dan Weller

925-648-4056

925-673-1669

925-838-1753

925-202-5922

925-222-0801

925-935-5510

[email protected] [email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

sschramm01gmail.com

[email protected]

Audit

Asst.

Herb Hellsten

Vito Magliano

925-686-6398

925-228-9251

[email protected]

[email protected]

Certificate Creator Barry Brown 925-930-8206 [email protected]

Chaplain

Asst.

Fred Nelson

Dick Brewer

925-689-6714

925-933-0876

[email protected]

[email protected]

Historian Dick Brewer 925-933-0876 [email protected]

LDL Organization Jack Waddell

Nat Bitton

Ed Dijkman

Paul Laderer

Dave Morse

925-932-5664

925-798-2064

925-680-7756

925-943-1392

925-938-3078

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

Nominating Committee Ed Benson

Don Atwater

Bill Hunter

Ron Smith

Derek Southern

925-943-7011

925-673-1669

925-285-5670

925-314-3066

925-253-1646

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

Procurement Dick Brooks 925-228-6959 [email protected]

Luncheon Positions Drawings – Lunch Ticket

- Birthday

Rob Laaback

Al Hudgens

925-938-5228

925-246-7846

[email protected]

Greeter Organizers

Asst.

Darryl Skiles

Joe Miscione

925-827-3818

925-284-2163

[email protected]

[email protected]

Guest Check-In

Asst.

Bill Johnson

Dennis Mierzwa

925-284-1728

925-938-5343

[email protected] [email protected]

Lunch Meal Tickets Mann Wong

Terry Vinson

925-891-4007

925-934-2194

[email protected]

[email protected]

Lunch Organization Bill Peterson 925-676-5295 [email protected]

Need-A-Ride Scott Graff 925-552-6097 [email protected]

Pianist open

Song Meister Brian Woolf

Carl Moyer

925-932-0590

925-685-5243

[email protected]

[email protected]

Speaker Committee

Mike Long

Ed Cohn

Fred Nelson

Tony de Losada

Dan Franklin

925-930-8401

925-954-7600

925-689-6714

510-566-2661

925-933-2594

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected] [email protected]

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Mt. Diablo Branch No. 8 Membership Positions

Applicant Orientation Chairman

Asst.

Dave Perkins

Mike Anderson

925-256-9569

925-229-0680

[email protected]

[email protected]

Email Distribution Dave Perkins 925-256-9569 [email protected]

Branch Support Tony de Losada 510-566-2661 [email protected]

Member Picture Gallery DeWayne Ruwe 925-229-0162 [email protected]

Member Relations Chairman

Asst.

Tony de Losada

Rob Laaback

Leo Barrella

Richard Bal

Ed Benson

Bill Peterson

Ron Smith

Derek Southern

Jim Sowell

Phil Trapp

Jack Waddell

Dave Perkins

Mike Anderson

Don Dennler

510-566-2661

925-938-5228

925-933-2372

925-944-1832

925-943-7011

925-676-5295

925-314-3066

925-253-1646

925-939-4670

925-648-4056

925-945-1730

925-932-5664

925-256-9569

925-229-0680

[email protected]

[email protected] [email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected] [email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected] [email protected]

[email protected] [email protected]

Publicity & Image Chairman

Tony de Losada

Dick Brooks

510-566-2661

925-228-6959

[email protected]

[email protected]

Recruitment Chairman Ed Benson

Ed Cohn

Tony de Losada

Stan Johnson

Don Dennler

Joe D’Angelo

925-943-7011

925-954-7600

510-566-2661

925-938-7016

925-687-6483

925-519-0505

[email protected] [email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

Roster Bob Barnes 925-348-6443 [email protected]

New Member Follow-up Richard Bal

Ron Smith

925-944-1832

925-314-3066

[email protected]

[email protected]

Sunshine Chairman Larry Mersmann 925-935-9124 [email protected]

Technology Positions Technology Coordinator Open

AMS Mentors Dave Davis

Bill Hunter

Nick Maufe

Martin Simmons

Dan Weller

925-838-1753

925-947-6947

925-719-2504

925-586-2704

925-935-5510

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

Audio Dick Brooks

Hans Pable

925-228-6959

925-672-2564

[email protected]

[email protected]

Computer Help (MAC)

Computer Help (PC)

Dick Brown

Dwane McGlothin

925-676-9048

925-798-2868

[email protected]

[email protected]

Branch Systems Architect Dan Weller 925-935-5510 [email protected]

Laptop Manager Bob Barnes 925-348-6443 [email protected]

Photographer Bill Phelon 925-254-8338 [email protected]

Photo Gallery Editor DeWayne Ruwe 925-229-0162 [email protected]

Projector and Screen Bob Barnes 925-346-6443 [email protected]

Web Master

Asst.

Derek Southern

Bill Hunter

925-253-1646

925-947-6947

[email protected]

[email protected]

Hotline Positions Editors Dan Weller - Coordinator

Jim Ripley

Barry Brown

Chuck Joyce

925-935-5510

925-891-4007

925-930-8206

925-788-1295

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

Publisher Rob Laaback 925-938-5228 [email protected]